[Completed] Sanguis quid Ligurat (NC17) [Archive] - Page 19 - NS Forums - Your number one site for Chloe and Lex (Chlex)

ruafair

24th July 2006, 18:49

Hope everyone is suitably on edge for this....... :devil: ...... hope it doesn't disappoint.... Fiona

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Chapter Hundred and Sixty Seven – The Rescue

The plane had landed but was still taxiing when Lex wrenched the door open and jumped out. Chloe was in serious danger he could feel it. He had to get to her… immediately.

He ignored the shouts of the others as he took off running, passing a bewildered Karl and Elena on the way.

“Follow him,” Lionel shouted to Lucas and Clark. “We will be right behind you.”

‘Lillian. Now. We need those wards disabled,’ he communicated to his wife.

‘We’re getting through them,’ she replied back. ‘Be careful.’

“Ok everyone,” Lionel addressed the others, including Karl and Elena. “Lillian and the rest are working through the wards. You all know what you have to do. We’ve gone through this enough times. Chloe is our priority, yes taking down Oliver would be a blessed bonus… but no one is to risk himself or herself trying to make that killer blow. Besides we need the horns of Altair, and Lex has those at the moment. Be safe everyone, don’t do anything stupid. NOW GO…”

“Nikolas, Elena, you are with me,” said Sergi.

“The rest of you with me,” said Lionel.

“Be careful,” Karl whispered to Elena, kissing her gently.

“You too,” she replied.”

“MOVE OUT,” said Sergi.

Sergi and Lionel exchanged a glance, and then they took off in opposite directions.

------

“Holy crap, he is moving fast,” said Lucas as he and Clark tried to catch up with Lex. “I have never seen a vampire move that fast.”

“I am having trouble catching him,” said Clark.

“We don’t need to catch him, just keep him in sight. Lex is been driven completely by his demon and the need to save Chloe. He’s liable to not recognise friend from foe in this mood. Chloe will be his focus. So, a little word of advice Kent, do not get in his way.” Lucas grinned at Clark and then injecting more speed into his legs took off ahead of him.

“Damn vampires,” muttered Clark, and followed after Lucas.

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

As Lex approached the gates of the property he was met with a few of Oliver’s minions. They were dispatched with very little effort. Chloe was very close; he could sense her presence strongly.

‘LEX,’ he heard her scream… both inside and outside his mind.

“CHLOE,” he cried, ripping the gates from their hinges and throwing them behind him. “Chloe…”

But he couldn’t pass the threshold onto the property. A force field of some kind was holding him back. He roared as he fought against it. ‘MOTHER,’ his mind screamed to her.

‘Working on it,’ Lillian screamed back.

‘Work faster.’ Lex pounded his fists against the field. A few seconds later the force field began to shimmer, Lex continued to pound and then fell through it.

“Yes,” he hissed and quickly got to his feet, running down the driveway.

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

Lionel’s team where heading from the left side, while Sergi’s from the right. Wards and force fields fell as they made the journey. Each team encountered various vampires and demons, but all were taken care of.

“What is that?” said Elena pointing at the mansion.

Sergi looked at it, and there seemed to be a *bubble* surrounding it.

“That would be very, very powerful magic,” gasped Nikolas.

‘Natasha,’ Sergi contact his wife. ‘We need you all to work harder… the shield around the mansion isn’t even dented. We can feel the power emanating from it.’

‘Byron has discovered some powerful spells in the books Claudio sent. He and Gabe are working on the translation of them now.’

‘Tell them to work faster love.’

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

Lex could see her… he could see his Chloe. She was being dragged along the ground by Oliver, that bastard was dragging her like she was a rag doll.

“CHLOE,” he called out as he neared them.

Oliver turned around and when he saw Lex he stopped. “Welcome to my humble abode. Not quite the Luthor castle… but believe me, my *dungeons* are just as comfortable as yours.”

Lex ignored him. His eyes were fixed on Chloe’s body. He knew she was still alive, he could feel it through their bond. But seeing the slight rise and fall of her chest sent a sense of relief flowing through him.

Oliver followed the path of Lex’s eyes and he laughed. “Oh she is still alive, but unconscious. She is quite wilful, I *had* to make her more submissive.”

“What the fuck did you do to her?” Lex launched himself at Oliver, but the other demon had stepped across the shield boundaries. When Lex almost reached him he hit the shield instead and was bounced back.

“Oops, probably should have told you about that,” grinned Oliver.

Lex roared and attacked him again, only to be thrown back.

“You can not penetrate it,” teased Oliver. “I used some very powerful witches to raise this shield. Can’t have the likes of you spoiling the party.”

Lex growled.

Laughing Oliver pulled Chloe to her feet, and wrapping an arm tightly around her waist held her against him. She was facing Lex; he could see the cuts in her face from the gravel.

“Chloe,” he called out. “Chloe sweetheart, wake up.”

“She can’t hear you,” said Oliver. “She had been given a very powerful and highly illegal drug. This drug will make her far more susceptible to my advances.” Although he would never admit it to Luthor… he was worried that she had fallen unconscious immediately. The doctor had said she would go in to a trance first. Oliver made a mental note to have the chemist Philip had hired, and who was due to arrive tomorrow, to check her out.

“You have a good eye Luthor, she is very beautiful, and sexy.” Oliver brushed his other hand over her breast. “I have seen her naked, bathing herself. I must say she got the blood flowing to *all* my extremities.”

‘He is trying to goad us,’ his demon said. ‘He wants us to attack again. The shield may drain our energy.’ Lex agreed, but watching him touch Chloe like that made him angrier.

“I bet she’s a wildcat between the sheets. Can’t wait to find out for myself.”

Lex growled, but managed not to throw himself at the shield again.

“What the fuck?” gasped Clark as he and Lucas caught up with Lex. “Oh my,” he looked Oliver up and down.

“Chloe,” Lucas cried out, running... Just as Lex was about to warn him Lucas hit the shield and was flung back.

“Ah the younger Luthor,” said Oliver. Then he turned his attention to Clark. “Now, what have we here? You’re not demon… or human for that matter. What are you boy?”

“Chloe’s friend,” retorted Clark.

“Well I would love to stand here and shoot the breeze with you all, but I do have far more pleasurable things to do. So if you gentlemen will excuse me. I’ll be on my way.”

He picked Chloe up and slung her over his shoulder. Grinning at the others he turned and began walking back to the main house.

“NNOOO, CHLOE,” cried Lex, throwing himself at the shield over and over. Lucas joined him and soon both brothers where futilely trying to break through the shield. Clark too began throwing his strength into trying to breach the shield. He even used his heat vision on it but all to no avail. The shield would just not move.

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

Lionel and Sergi’s teams moved in from the sides. Soon everyone was in place around the great shield, all watching helplessly as a grinning Oliver walked off with Chloe thrown over his shoulder.

Sergi’s team were on the right side, while Lionel’s took up the left. All were poised for an assault if only they could break through.

Both Sergi and Lionel contacted their mates, urging them to break this final shield.

Lionel told Lillian that they could see Chloe but just couldn’t reach her. They needed to work harder and faster.

------

It was Nikolas who noticed it first… the very slight shimmer. At first he thought it was just the moonlight, but then it happened again.

He grabbed his father’s arm and pointed to the spot where he saw the shimmer. For a moment Sergi saw nothing, and then there it was. ‘Lionel,’ he called his friend. ‘It’s starting to break.’

Lionel immediately began searching for signs and he was not disappointed. More violent and frequent shimmers began around the shield.

‘Lex, your mother and the others are breaking through.’

------

Chloe could hear Lex’s cries… plus the voices of the others. She didn’t know what had happened with the drug, but it obviously didn’t do what it was suppose to do. She had faked going unconscious when she realised whatever Oliver had injected her with was doing nothing. It had taken all her control not to open her eyes and look at Lex. But if she were to aid in her own rescue this needed to be planned carefully.

Glancing to the side she saw the shimmer in the shield. She needed to make her move now. If Oliver reached the main house and got inside it would be too late.

Whatever the others were doing it was working the shield was weakening. And even more importantly, Oliver seemed unaware of all this. He was more intent on making a grand show to Lex that he could just stroll away with her.

‘Here it goes,’ she thought. She lifted her head and locked eyes with her mate.

------

“Chloe,” he whispered, when he saw her lift her head. “What?”

‘Haven’t got the time now,’ her voice sounded in his mind. ‘Just be ready.’

A smile broke out on his face. ‘That’s my girl,’ he said back. ‘I am ready love.’ Chloe smiled back and winked.

Lex grabbed his brother and Clark’s arm. “Wait,” he said. “*Chloe* has something planned.”

“You’ve spoken to her?” asked an excited Lucas.

Lex nodded and relayed the message to his father.

‘Let your mother know and I will inform the others. We will be ready for whatever she does,’ was Lionel’s reply.

------

Chloe almost cried out when she heard Lex’s voice in her mind. But she couldn’t dwell on that. First she had to get away from Oliver.

Looking at the shield it was shimmering constantly… the breakthrough was imminent. And there it was, the instrument to getting her away from Oliver. Strapped to a belt on his waist was a knife… Oliver always carried it with him. And while she knew she wouldn’t be able to kill him, she just needed to do enough to get him to drop her so she could get to Lex.

“As soon as you wake up my dear… we’ll get better acquainted,” said Oliver. “Then plan the demise of the Luthors.”

Chloe suppressed a shudder and inched her had towards the knife.

“We will take over the world Chloe… Think about it... You and me, ruling it...There will be no…ARRRRGGGGGGGHHHHHHH,” he screamed in pain and dropped Chloe.

He barely noticed her rolling and getting to her feet. She then took off in a quick run towards Lex.

Chloe had imbedded the knife between his shoulder blades. Oliver continued to scream as he frantically scrambled behind him to pull out the blade. This was a special knife… designed to hurt demons, hence why it was causing him so much pain. Thick black blood flowed from the spot where it was stuck.

“RUN,” roared Lex, as he and the others began hitting the shield again.

Chloe didn’t need to be told twice, she focused all her energy on getting her legs to move. She could hear the scream of Oliver behind her. He was screaming in pain and in between those yells he was screaming for Chloe’s blood. He let out a blood-curdling howl and soon vampires began flowing out of the main mansion.

Lex frantically pounded against the shield, and then the breakthrough happened. He fell through it on the ground. He was quickly to his feet running down the driveway to Chloe.

“Oh sweetheart,” he cried out upon reaching her, pulling her into his arms.

Chloe sobbed as she felt his arms around her.

“Oh Chloe…” cried Lex, burying his face into her hair.

All the others came through the now dissipating shield and immediately began attacking the minions of Oliver. The demon himself had managed to pull out the blade and was on his hands and knees waiting for the pain to subside.

His back and wings were covered in black blood. “Get them… but she is mine,” he cried out. Oliver struggled to his feet, and slowly began moving towards Lex and Chloe.

Clark had taken his jacket off and gave to Chloe to put over her. She briefly smiled at her friend in thanks before gabbing Lex’s hand again. Clark and the others were easily dispatching the minions.

Another howl from Oliver sent even more vampires towards them… but unlike the last lot these vampires were much stronger.

‘Lex, we have Chloe, let us get out of here. She was our priority, we will get Oliver another day.’ Lionel said to his son.

Although reluctant to let Oliver slip through their fingers, Lex could see the wisdom behind his father’s words. They had Chloe that was all that mattered.

“Lucas, Clark, fall back. We are going to get out of here. Lucas, contact the plane.”

But soon more and more vampires where streaming onto the grounds. They were coming from all directions. Moving more freely now Oliver began making his way to Lex and Chloe. Lex and the others had started falling back, still fighting, but now they were moving towards the ruined gates.

Lionel could hear the plane in the distance. “Karl, get everyone back.”

Karl nodded and quickly getting rid of the two vampires attacking him began calling to the others.

“KILL THEM ALL,” shouted Oliver, advancing on Lex and Chloe.

“KARL,” Elena screamed as she watched him go down under an assault of about five vampires. “Karl!” She quickly ran towards him, pushing vampires out of her way.

Alyssa joined her and between the two of them they got him free. He didn’t look good. “Get him out of here Elena,” said Alyssa.

Elena nodded and hoisted Karl up as gently as she could and half carried and half dragged him towards the exit.

“Quickly son,” cried Sergi grabbing the injured Nikolas. “We need to get out.”

The plane was hovering overhead, looking for somewhere to land.

“Over here,” waved a new figure. Chloe looked up and saw it was Tony, one of Oliver’s minions. He winked at her and waved to Lucas.

“Old friend of ours,” Lucas called out as he and Clark ran to help Elena with the injured Karl.

As they all made their way to the plane, Oliver managed to cordon off Lex and Chloe from the others.

“Stay here,” Lex said to Chloe, and before she could reply he pulled the two horns from his jacket and ran towards the advancing Oliver.

“LEX, NO,” she cried.

“You are going to pay for what you did to Chloe,” growled Lex.

“Just try it Luthor.”

Holding a horn in each land Lex threw himself at the demon. Oliver managed to block Lex’s attack. He punched him in the face, sending Lex reeling back. The force of the blow caused Lex to drop one of the horns. But he quickly recovered and advanced again.

Chloe watched the horn roll away and ran to retrieve it.

Spying Chloe now vulnerable Oliver made his way towards her. His plans had been completely fucked up, but he would leave her corpse here.

Realising what Oliver was doing Lex threw himself at the demon. He wrapped an arm around his neck, squeezing. Oliver shook from side to side trying to dislodge Lex. Drawing an arm up Lex plunged the horn between Oliver’s eyes. It wouldn’t destroy the demon, both horns had to be administered at the exact same time, but hopefully it would give him a headache.

Oliver screeched and Lex threw himself off of him. “CHLOE RUN,” he shouted as the remaining vampires of Oliver’s minions began advancing on them.

“Fucker,” growled Lex, twisting the horn before wrenching it out and running after his mate. His father was right, they would have another chance to take Oliver down.

Oliver fell to the ground screaming in agony… Blood flowed down his face. His minions stood around not knowing what to do.

Lex and Chloe made it to the plane, where they were quickly helped on.

“Get the hell out of here,” Sergi shouted at the pilot.

The plane quickly began soaring up and away quickly.

Lune

24th July 2006, 19:12

Damn, I had hoped they would get to kill Oliver too... Do they have both horns or did one get left behind? I can't wait a whole nother week, ahhhhhhh!

planetcal

24th July 2006, 19:18

YAY Lex rescued Chloe!!!!! I'm glad she's out of Oliver's hands now. Great update as always. Can't wait for next Monday.

LovelyLily

24th July 2006, 19:20

There are no words!!!!! All I can say is wow! I'm so glad they got Chloe and I can't wait until next Monday for another chapter and now I have to go lie down after all the excitement.

lj715

24th July 2006, 19:20

WOOOOO freakin' HOOOOO!!!!!!!! OMG!!!! That was excellent!!!!!!!! I am so glad that that serum didn't work & Chloe was just baiting Oliver. Everybody worked so well together to get her back. I wish they had gotten Oliver but to get Chloe & get everyone out of there unharmed was their biggest priority.

Ok, now that Chloe is back with her family, I think the next 3 or 5 chapters should focus on Lex & Chloe reunion smut. Really, they have been apart for almost as long as they were together & there's a lot of smut to be made up for.

Great job Fiona, loved this chapter. Was routing for them all the way.

teb85

24th July 2006, 19:34

Exciting Stuff Fiona, I loved it !!
So pleased Chloe is safe back with Lex and I agree with lj, bring on the reunion smut !! lol Can't wait until Monday !!!

westwingwolf

24th July 2006, 19:36

I'm a little upset that Oliver managed to survive, even if it won't be for long. But it doesn't compare to how happy I am that they rescued Chloe. I'm so happy that stupid drug didn't work, I suspect that someone made certain it wouldn't. And I'm worried about Karl. But now that Chloe will be home, I expect long chapters of smut. I know she'll need rest after everything she's been through, but soon her and Lex have to get to the real reuniting.

kimmie

24th July 2006, 19:53

Chloe is safe but I'm worried about what that drug will do to her. I'm so happy she is back with Lex again, Lionel was right to just focus on getting Chloe out, they can get Oliver another time! I hope that Karl is ok, can't wait for more!

-K-

Btab12207

24th July 2006, 20:54

OH MAN! It was FANTASTIC. Chloe and Lex are back together! This was definantly worth the wait. Can't wait for the next update!

Kit Merlot

24th July 2006, 21:40

That was superb Fi!

Good for Chloe--she's smart, gutsy and resourceful:D But Oliver is going to be even more intent on destroying the Luthors now.

Great work!

cnl2003

24th July 2006, 21:52

Wow....I'm so glad Lex got Chloe back. And the drug didn't work, right?

OddEvens

24th July 2006, 22:54

well damn... More! Please post more soon! Please!!

Gina41283

24th July 2006, 22:57

YESSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS SSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS SSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSSS SS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

awsome update!!!!! ^_^ please update soon i can't wait to see what happens now!!!

whodunit??

24th July 2006, 23:32

wow... i don't even know what to type. just wow. amazing update. i'm so happy for so many reasons. first and foremost Lex and Chloe are back together. secondly, the drug didnt work on Chloe, though i'd like to know why i'm still very happy it didnt work. and then lastly, though some where hurt badly everyone on the good side got out of that rescue mission alive, or as alive as vampires can be.

cant wait for the next update

heather

Alizaleven

25th July 2006, 02:19

YAY!! You've updated, and i loved this update :) Im so glad Chloe and Lex are together again

lilinny

25th July 2006, 03:08

:nsparty:

Yea!!!!! Chloe is rescued!!!! Now I can finally relax. Fantastico chapter!!!!!

xiaoyouangel

25th July 2006, 06:50

thank god that the drug have no effects or the drug effects will happen when chloe is with lex already thus creating lots of smut..hehehe!!!
i hope the demise of oliver will be close....and its chloe and lex who will make it happen...

uncfaery

25th July 2006, 06:56

“Fucker,” growled Lex, twisting the horn before wrenching it out and running after his mate. His father was right, they would have another chance to take Oliver down.

I don't know what about this gets to me. But I read it four times and each time I found myself both giddily giggly :rofl: (I can just picture him doing it and, I don't know, I giggle in a fangirl sorta way...you've turned me into a fangirl over your fictious vampire Lex) and frustrated as much as Lex must have been when he said it (because grrrr....he just can't kill the evil little sh*t and he wants to with every fiber of his being and I want him to with every fiber of mine).

"Fucker" is right. And he's soooooo going to get it! :devil:

What can I say...this story brings out both my inner squeeing fangirl and my vengeful angel of tortuous death. I love it!

buckles squared

25th July 2006, 15:08

WooHoo!!! Big excitement! Well done!

jaab

25th July 2006, 22:09

I love this story. I have actully been looking for it a while now, and am so happy that I found it. Am so glad that Chloe was saved, cant wait to read what happens next. Please update soon :)

// J

Willower

25th July 2006, 23:44

ding dong, oliver is dead, oliver is dead, oliver is dead. ding dong that evil, messed psycho is d e a d.

gravelgerdie

26th July 2006, 00:30

As always, Love Love Love this story:)

Suzanne

angelslady

26th July 2006, 14:31

Just been catching up, this is such a great story... lol so glad, Lex and Chloe are back together, can't wait to see what happens, when they get back home! :)

letia84

27th July 2006, 02:43

I just have to scream right now. :eek: :eek: :eek: :eek: :eek:

I have no words. Missed three freakin chapters and I'm at a lost for words.

They saved her! They saved her! But can't help but feel something is not right. Something is not totally okay with her since he gave her the drug. OMG! Please let her be all right.

The fighting, the action all of it was so great. I want this on my TV. I would watch it every monday. I can't think right now that was so good. Monday is to far away.

Gaia

27th July 2006, 09:28

Chloe is back!!!But why didn't the drug thingy work...not that I'm complaining, but still.?

stwbrrydelight

27th July 2006, 15:54

OMG...OMG...OMG...OMG
I have been so busy (grr, jury duty) that I haven't been able to read this for over a month
The progression is great but I came back just as it was getting very, very intersting and am now frustrated that I must wait for more

carolannw5

28th July 2006, 03:51

Fantastic Update!

Thank goodness Chloe got away from Oliver! Lex and Chloe reunited!

Awesome Story!

:respect:

meg20

29th July 2006, 16:29

YESSSS!!!!

Finally they are back together. So glad that the drug was a fake one!!!
I was so worried about Oliver having Chloe in his reach and being a total perv!

Hope we get some Chlex happiness now and a very sweet Lex!!!

Lillian

29th July 2006, 19:27

Wow, great chapter!!!

Chloe and Lex are together again. YEAH!!!!!!!!! Well Done

But I'm a little worry about Karl. I hope he's fine. Sure he's fine.

pipersmum

31st July 2006, 00:52

Ok, now that Chloe is back with her family, I think the next 3 or 5 chapters should focus on Lex & Chloe reunion smut. Really, they have been apart for almost as long as they were together & there's a lot of smut to be made up for.

I like the way you think lj :D Fiona that chapter was simply fantastic I loved it and I can't wait for tomorrow's chapter :)

Shy Butterfly

31st July 2006, 16:12

They are finally together again, YEAH!!!

ruafair

31st July 2006, 18:14

Yes, our duo are back together.... No smut *just* yet...but it is coming soon, this chapter is kind of a tidy up of the events in Scotland.... Fiona

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Chapter Hundred and Sixty Eight – The Fall Out

Alyssa and her father tended to Nikolas’ wounds. He had lost a lot of blood and the wounds weren’t healing quickly enough. They worked frantically to stop the blood flowing. When they had Sergi bit at his wrist and held the weeping wound to his son’s mouth.

Nikolas moaned as the scent of blood hit him.

“Drink son,” urged Sergi, slashing at the wound again. “Drink.”

While Nikolas may have been unconscious his demon wasn’t. Knowing it’s body was hurt the scent of blood invigorated it.

Sergi pressed his wrist to Nikolas’ mouth. A low growl sounded in his throat and his lips parted. He slowly lapped at the blood but his demon completely took over and sank his fangs into the offered wrist.

He drank greedily, grabbing Sergi’s arm to hold him in place.

Alyssa cried in relief as she saw the cuts and bruises on her brother’s face heal.

When Sergi felt his son squeeze the bones in his wrist he pulled it away. Nikolas growled and reached for the wrist again.

“You’ve had enough,” said Sergi. “You need to rest son.”

“Blood,” growled Nikolas.

“No. Rest and build your strength,” repeated Sergi, his voice adamant.

“Spoilsport,” mumbled Nikolas, his human face appearing again.

Sergi smiled fondly at him as he drifted asleep again.

“Oh thank goodness,” murmured Alyssa hugging her father.

------

While Nikolas showed all the signs of recovering, things did not look for good for Karl.

Despite Lionel’s forcing some of his blood down the young vampire’s throat, there was still no movement. Elena sobbed quietly as Lucas, Lionel and Clark worked frantically to revive him.

Lex and Chloe sat in one of the seats, arms wrapped around each other.

“Help them Lex,” she whispered.

“Don’t want to let you go,” he murmured, burying his face in her neck.

“And I don’t want you to let me go,” she smiled. “But Karl needs you… And I need to help Elena.”

‘No,’ said his demon stubbornly. They had their mate back, and didn’t want to let her go. Even if what she said was right.

Very reluctantly Lex released Chloe and after kissing her gently moved over to Karl.

Smiling Chloe followed him and sat beside Elena, wrapping her arm around the other girl’s shoulders. Elena leaned her head against Chloe’s shoulder and sobbed. “He’ll be fine,” whispered Chloe. “Karl’s practically a Luthor and you know how stubborn they are about everything.”

“I can’t lose him,” said Elena, her voice thick with tears.

“And you won’t,” assured Chloe, tightening her arm around Elena’s shoulders.

------

“It’s not good Lex,” said Lucas. “He had too many injuries and they are not healing quick enough. Even with dad’s blood inside him he is still bleeding. It just won’t stop. His demon is weak, Karl himself is very weak, and we’re at a loss as to what to do.”

“We need to give his demon a kick start,” replied Lex, looking at his friend. “We need to get his demon into survival mode.”

Placing his hand on Karl’s chest Lex leaned down. “I know you can hear me,” he whispered into his ear. “And I’m guessing wherever you are at the moment is dark… very dark. But you need to come back. You cannot give up now Karl. You are too important to us; you are family. Remember all our plans about watching our kids grow. We need you… Elena needs you. Are you really going to leave that wonderful girl behind? Come on Karl… FIGHT.”

A pained whimper escaped Karl’s lips.

“That’s it Karl,” said Lex. “Elena, come over here.”

She hurried over to Lex, almost falling on him as the plane hit some turbulence.

“I’ll tell the pilot to take it easy,” smiled Clark. He left, squeezing Chloe’s shoulder as he passed her on the way to the cockpit.

“Talk to him Elena,” said Lex softly. “Let him hear your voice, it will give him an anchor to bring himself back.”

Grasping Karl’s hand Elena bent down and whispered in his ear. She spoke in Italian, telling him how much she loved him, and that he had to come back.

“Please love, I can’t go on without you,” she said, tears falling down her cheeks. “I need you too much.” She brushed his hair from his forehead and kissed him. “Please Karl…”

Deep within Karl’s mind he faintly heard Elena’s voice. He clung to that, tried to use it to pull him back to consciousness. While he was still young, in vampire and human terms, Karl knew that Elena was the one for him. Although his demon was not ready to seriously begin to court her as a mate, she was the one. From the moment he saw her he had known it.

He couldn’t give up now, not when Elena would be by his side forever.

He focussed on her words… words that were getting easier to hear. He also thought he could faintly hear Lex’s voice but wasn’t sure.

“He squeezed my hand,” gasped Elena, feeling the slight pressure.

“Keep talking Elena… it’s working,” said Lex with a smile.

Giving Lex a small smile, Elena squeezed Karl’s hand and began whispering to him again.

------

“He is very weak,” Lionel said. “Even if his demon kicks into survival mode it may not be enough.”

“I know dad, but for him to have any chance he needs to be in that mode,” replied Lex.

Tony made his way to the others and sat down beside Chloe.

“Why didn’t you tell me that you worked for the Luthors?” she asked.

“I am sorry,” he replied. “But I couldn’t risk it. Also I don’t actually work for the Luthors,” he grinned at Lucas. “I just know them, and my orders, as such, were to keep an eye on you. To do what I could to stop Oliver gaining control of you like paying attention to what he and the late doctor were doing. If Oliver had of managed to *sway* you to his side. Well, you would have told him I was a spy, and I’m sure you can guess what would have happened then.”

“Lots of pain for you,” said Chloe.

“Exactly. Although I did fulfil my task if you like,” he added with a smug grin.

“What do you mean?”

“You didn’t fall under Oliver’s sway. The drug didn’t work… and the reason the drug didn’t work was because I replaced it.”

“That was you?” exclaimed Chloe. “I expected it to have had some effect on me and was surprised when it didn’t. I faked being unconscious till I could work out an escape plan.”

“It was just a vitamin shot. I had heard Oliver and the doctor saying that when it was administered you would go into some kind of trance before falling unconscious. But thankfully Oliver was so convinced no one would betray him, he didn’t seem too perturbed when you didn’t go into a trance.”

“Thank you,” said Chloe, sincerely. She gave the vampire a big smile. “That move kind of triggered everything. Good thinking.”

Tony beamed back at her.

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SMALLVILLE

“They are on the way home,” cried Lillian. She collapsed in relief into her chair.

“Is… Is everyone ok?” asked Natasha. She had tried contacting Sergi and her children but there was no answer.

“Nikolas…”

Christine gasped and grabbed Natasha’s hand.

“Nikolas was injured, but Sergi and Alyssa tended to him. Lionel says is making a recovery,” said Lillian with a smile. “He will be up and moving gingerly by they time they land here.”

“Oh thank the gods,” cried Christine as Natasha pulled her into a hug.

“And Chloe?” asked Gabe, holding Anna’s hand.

“Chloe is fine. No noticeable injuries, in fact according to Lionel she is in good spirits.”

Gabe sank back in his seat as tears sprung in his eyes. He wiped furiously at them.

“Let them out Gabe,” Anna said, squeezing his hand. “It’s ok.” She wrapped her other arm around his shoulders.

Gabe buried his face against her shoulder and cried softly. Anna whispered soothing words into his ear and ran her hand up and down his back comfortingly.

“The other one badly injured is Karl,” said Lillian. “Lionel says he is very weak. But he has started showing signs but he is still not out of danger. Byron, I’ll need your help with Karl when they arrive.”

“Of course Lillian,” smiled the English man.

“Did they manage to take out Oliver?” asked Gabe after he had composed himself.

“Unfortunately not. Lionel said that Lex managed to get him with one of the horns, and by all accounts that caused a severe amount of pain to him,” she added with a grin. “But there was no moment of opportunity to administer both.”

“Do they still have Altair’s horns?” asked Natasha. “It would be a disaster if they didn’t. As far as we have been told they are the only things that can destroy him.”

“No it’s ok. They still have both.”

Natasha smiled in relief. Again she tried contacting Sergi and that relief increased when he answered back. He apologised for not talking earlier but Nikolas needed him. He reassured her that both he and their children were ok. He also relayed a message to Christine that Nikolas was resting and slowly recovering his strength.

“So what happens now?” asked Byron.

“We wait for the others to arrive home. Then we make sure Nikolas is ok, and we tend to Karl to make sure he recovers completely. We then welcome Chloe back and we have a small celebration. Getting her back is a great victory for us… And it will be only a matter of time before Oliver finishes licking his wounds. He will regroup and he’ll be back stronger and more pissed off than before.”

“So we should savour this moment,” said Anna.

“Yes, and we need it. A small celebration will be good for morale.”

“Plus it will give you something to organise Lillian,” teased Natasha.

“Well there is that as well,” grinned the Luthor matriarch.

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

“When will we reach Smallville?” asked Clark.

“We should be there in a few hours,” said the pilot.

“That’s good to hear,” he replied. “Thanks.”

He left the cockpit and headed back to the others. Sergi and Lionel were talking quietly. Alyssa was holding her brother’s hand and talking to him about Christine and his daughter. Lucas was with Elena and they were both speaking to a deathly pale and very unconscious Karl.

And over in the corner sat an entwined Lex and Chloe, a puzzle of arms and legs. They were talking softly and every so often Lex would touch her face and kiss her. He looked at her so intently as if convincing himself each time that she was back… with him… in his arms. The scene brought a smile to Clark’s face. He wanted to talk to her and hug her, but they would have plenty of time when they got home. This time now was for Lex and Chloe.

Smiling to himself he turned away from them and went over to Lucas and Elena to see if he could help with Karl.

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

SCOTLAND

Clutching his head Oliver tossed and turned on the ground… moaning in pain. He had reverted back to his human state and was lying in a pool of his own blood. There was still the throbbing between his shoulder blades frm the wound Chloe had given him. But that was nothing compared to the pain between his eyes. When he’d been stabbed it actually felt like his life force was being drained from him. He rolled over onto his back, grimacing as he did so and stared up in to the night sky.

‘How did they break the wards? Why didn’t the drug work? And what the fuck did Luthor use to stab him with?’ All these questions and more floated around his mind.

“Help me up,” he barked at the many minions still standing around staring at him.

Two quickly rushed forward and assisted him in getting to his feet.

A wave of dizziness hit him when he was upright again. And the pain between his eyes increased. “Get away from me,” he growled pushing the two vampires holding him up away.

“Pack up whatever weapons we can,” he said. “Also collect all the books and the laptop from my quarters. You,” he pointed at one vampire, “get the chopper ready. I want us away from this place within the hour.”

He turned away from them and walked back to the main house, visions of revenge and torture upon the Luthors utmost in his mind.

pipersmum

31st July 2006, 18:33

That was great Fiona, but poor Karl I really hope he is going to be ok??

Oliver is really pissed off isn't he it won't be long before he has new plans of revenge :evil:

I can't wait for the Chlex smut so roll on next week :D

lj715

31st July 2006, 18:35

AHA!!!!! I KNEW IT!!!! I knew Tony replaced the serum with something different. This was a great chapter ( eventhough there was NO smut). I really hope Karl is going to be ok. I will be so sad if something bad happens to him. Ok, now I have to wait a whole week for more. I really LOVE this story.

buckles squared

31st July 2006, 18:52

Thanks!

westwingwolf

31st July 2006, 19:23

We can officially add Tony to my list of people I wish to survive. I have tears in my eyes from worring about Karl and Nikolas. Please let Karl be okay, Elena needs him. I love that Lex didn't want to let Chloe go, I imagine so after everything that's happened. So we get another celebration from Lillian, ok I'm all for it, as long as the smut comes before it, and after it, and you know during as well. I can't wait for the celebration that will come after Oliver's death. Sign me up for that party, I'll bring the cake!

biscuits

31st July 2006, 20:59

I am very glad that Chloe, Nikolas and crew are fine and that no actual drug was administered. I had visions of Chloe being crazy and half dead and Lex having to turn her as soon as he arrived just to keep her alive-ish.

I do hope Karl is all right and that Oliver is killed. Brutally. I wouldn't object to one of those horns hitting him in the nuts. Chloe could be in charge of driving that one home.

sarahnicole

31st July 2006, 21:41

THANKS FOR THE UPDATE! I've always loved vampire lore and all that, so adding it to a Chlex fic pretty much makes said fic like crack for me. I can't wait to see how things go, and I'm hoping that they'll change Chloe soon. Keep Karl around! And I'm with biscuits about the horn in the nuts for Oliver...

Alizaleven

1st August 2006, 00:18

that was such a good update!! yay! but grrr I hope Oliver doesn't make too much trouble again. I loved the part with Karl and Elena :)

letia84

1st August 2006, 00:19

This was nice in-between chapter.

“You didn’t fall under Oliver’s sway. The drug didn’t work… and the reason the drug didn’t work was because I replaced it.”

“That was you?” exclaimed Chloe. “I expected it to have had some effect on me and was surprised when it didn’t. I faked being unconscious till I could work out an escape plan.”
I was holding my breathe hoping that the drug was switched out. I could give Tony a big ol' kiss :blinkkiss

And over in the corner sat an entwined Lex and Chloe, a puzzle of arms and legs. They were talking softly and every so often Lex would touch her face and kiss her. He looked at her so intently as if convincing himself each time that she was back… with him… in his arms. The scene brought a smile to Clark’s face. He wanted to talk to her and hug her, but they would have plenty of time when they got home. This time now was for Lex and Chloe.
Ahh this is so sweet. So nice that they are back together. I love Lex demon. So one tracked minded.

I'm a little scared for Karl. I hope he can pull though. I know you said people would dike but not yet please. Not anymore anyway,

I look forward to Chlex back together smut and can't wait for more soon.

lilinny

1st August 2006, 02:02

Will Karl be okay? I'm so glad Chloe and Lex are reunited. Good chapter.

Willower

1st August 2006, 08:23

i can't wait for oliver's final ass kicking and hopefully some delightful chlex reunion smuttaciousness. great update.

teejei

1st August 2006, 09:06

gah...

Tony, Tony...stick close to the Luthors, dude...here's wishing no pain or you.

and Chlex back together...*shiver* reunion boinking please. *silly grin*

oooohhh, Karl....i actually had goosebumps at the thought of CriticalKarl. good thing there's Elena...god, i sure hope he survives...

great update.

[this post would've had lots o exclamation points, but oddly, my keyboard's acting up. hmmmm....]

Gaia

1st August 2006, 10:25

So that's why the thing didn't work:D Vitamins....hehee stupid Oliver.
Great update..on with the story.

Chica

1st August 2006, 15:54

Great update :clapclap: I can't wait for the next one.

carolannw5

2nd August 2006, 05:17

Excellent Chapter!

Reunited! Loved it!

:blinkkiss

Lune

2nd August 2006, 17:42

I wouldn't object to one of those horns hitting him in the nuts. Chloe could be in charge of driving that one home.

Damn, I'm not even a guy and that one made me cringe picturing it ><

Anyway, I can't wait for more ^.^

Gina41283

3rd August 2006, 11:51

oh wow awsome update!!! i hope karl makes it through!!! ^_^ please update soon!!!

summer_enchanted

4th August 2006, 21:36

Yay! I'm so happy Chloe's back with her family :ecstatic: Can't wait for the next part :ecstatic: :)

:nsparty:

starmoon

5th August 2006, 18:49

great update i am glad that everyone is ok but i wish it would end and lex and chloe could be happy and safe please update soon i can't wait for more.

Lillian

5th August 2006, 20:36

Another great chapter!!
I was cryin for Karl, please save him, Elena loves him and needs him so much.
I can't wait to Lex and Chloe make love again.

Only two days more to monday.

ruafair

7th August 2006, 12:55

HEy all.... early update.. no work today YIPPEE!!!!!!!! Hope you enjoy...
Fiona
----------------------------------------------------------

Chapter Hundred and Sixty Nine – A Proper Reunion

As soon as the plane landed on the airstrip all the occupants where whisked away in the waiting vans and cars.

In the back of one of the vans Elena continued to talk to Karl, his hand still clutched in hers. Lucas travelled with them.

A separate car was waiting to take Clark home. He said he would be at the castle later, but really needed to check home first. After Lionel and Lex shook hands with him and Chloe gave him a hug Clark headed off in the other direction to the Kent farm.

Lex and Chloe slipped into a car by themselves.

“Very glad to have you back Miss Chloe,” grinned Andrew as he got into the driver’s seat.

“Glad to be back Andrew,” she replied with a smile.

Andrew hit the button that brought up the screen separating the back of the car from the driver’s side.

“Always quick on the uptake is Andrew,” smiled Lex, sinking back into his seat and taking Chloe with him.

She went willingly, collapsing into his embrace.

Lex buried his face in her hair. “Gods Chloe, I thought I had lost you,” he whispered, his arms tightening around her.

“I thought you’d lost me,” she replied.

Lex lifted his head and kissed her. Slowly at first, but as Chloe’s mouth opened beneath his it grew in ardour. Moaning softly Chloe wrapped her arms around his neck. God she had missed this. Both could feel the marks in their neck throbbing… they had been apart far too long.

“Chloe,” groaned Lex as he dragged his mouth from hers. While his hands found her breasts, caressing them gently, he moved his mouth to her neck.

“I need to love,” he groaned. “I have to.”

“Do it,” she panted, knowing what he meant.

Lex laved his tongue over the mark… Each touch sent a bolt of arousal to Chloe’s groin, causing her to moan and press herself against him.

Lex vamped out and sucking the soft flesh of her neck in to his mouth, he sank his fangs into her.

“Lex,” she cried.

Lex’s demon cried in relief, as it tasted its mate’s blood again. He didn’t take too much; he just needed to reassure himself of their bond. So after a mouthful he retracted his fangs and licked at the small puncture wound till it stopped bleeding.

“Part one done,” he smirked, his eyes glowing. “Now for the next.” He began unbuttoning her top.

“We can’t Lex, not here,” she said, although her body said otherwise. “I don’t want it to be a quick fuck in the backseat of a car. I want us to be in our bed… where we can take our time.”

Lex stilled his hands and groaned.

“I know love,” she rested her forehead against his. “I need you too, but we’ve waited this long, we can wait for a few more hours.”

‘No we can not,’ screamed his demon. But Lex, reluctantly, had to agree with her. “A *few* more hours love, and then I don’t care.”

“I wouldn’t have it any other way,” grinned Chloe and kissed him.

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

“Lionel,” cried Lillian running into his arms.

Closing his eyes he hugged his wife tightly.

Similar scenes played out around them. Natasha and Sergi… Nikolas and Christine, albeit Nikolas needed some help in moving. Alyssa had joined in the embrace with her parents.

“Ah the curse of the single vamp,” sighed Lucas. “No beautiful woman to welcome me back.”

“Welcome back,” grinned Anna, hugging him.

“Still got it,” teased Lucas, wrapping his arms around her.

Gabe paced up and down on the gravel outside the front door. Lex and Chloe were last to leave their car. The moment he saw his daughter Gabe broke into a run. Tears blurring his vision he reached them only seconds after they exited the car. “Chloe, sweetheart,” he wrapped his arms around her, pulling her against him. “Oh sweetheart, I was so worried… I thought…”

“Stop dad, don’t say anything. I’m back,” she buried herself into her father’s chest. “I’m back now.”

Lex smiled at them and headed to his parents. “So glad you’re ok,” murmured Lillian, kissing his cheeks.

Byron had rushed to where Elena and Karl where. “Em, a little help please,” he called out.

Tony rushed over, along with Lex and the two of them gently lifted Karl out. “I have a room prepared just head past the dining room, it two doors down from it.”

Tony and Lex nodded and very slowly and carefully carried Karl in. “Come on my dear,” said Byron with a small smile. He held his hand out to Elena. “I’m going to need you. Karl is going to need you.”

“He’s going to be ok, isn’t he?” she asked softly.

“Of course he is,” replied Byron. “How could he leave you?”

Elena smiled at him.

“That’s the spirit. Come on now, let’s get him all better for you.”

She nodded definitely and took Byron’s hand.

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

It wasn’t a party by Lillian Luthor’s standards, but it was just perfect. She had organised for all the staff to be present as well. This was a celebration, her eldest son’s mate had been returned, and everyone deserved to be part of her welcome home.

Clark had arrived and was talking softly to Chloe, while Lex conversed with Gabe.

Elena was not present. She had popped in earlier and spent a few moments with Chloe. But her thoughts where with Karl, and she wanted to be with him. Chloe had understood and told the other girl that they would have a proper talk when Karl was better.

Byron stuck his head in a couple of times. But this was usually just to give an update on Karl’s condition.

Although slightly subdued, everyone enjoyed the party.

But as the hours ticked on Lex found himself growing more and more restless. He tried to listen as Sergi and his father told everyone about they had got Chloe back, but it was damn difficult when your mate was standing five feet away.

A mate that you had not seen in weeks… a mate that currently had you as hard as a rock.

‘Chloe love,’ he said, his attention on his parents. ‘I think we have been polite enough… It’s time to say our goodnights.’

‘Oh you are right,’ she replied. ‘I am very tired, sleep sounds like a very good idea.’

Lex looked around and stared at her.

‘SLEEP. You want to sleep!’

‘It has been a very tiring experience for me,’ she said, an evil grin on her face. ‘Sleep will be good for me.’

‘Me buried inside you, fucking you into exhaustion will be better for you.’

‘Really, so you’re a doctor now?’

------

Lillian watched with an amused and knowing smile on her face. She knew Lex and Chloe where talking to each other. And judging by the sly grin on Chloe’s face, and the incredulous look on Lex’s, there was no doubt that Chloe was teasing her son.

Inwardly she sighed in relief, delighted that her daughter in law didn’t seem to show any adverse signs to her captivity. But she knew Chloe was a strong girl, how else could she have hooked her son?

Her smile grew as she watched her son stride across the room and gently take Chloe’s elbow. Lillian smothered a chuckle behind her had when she saw Chloe blush at whatever Lex had whispered in her ear.

“I think Lex and Chloe are about to leave,” she murmured to Lionel.

“I’m rather impressed that Lex managed to last as long as he did,” laughed Lionel. “It’s good to see him happy again.”

“Yes it is,” she replied. “Now we wait for Karl to make a full recovery and then we take down Oliver for good.”

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

Glancing around the room to see if there were being watched Lex and Chloe made their way to the door.

Chloe briefly caught sight of her dad, and was happy to see him engrossed in a conversation with Sergi, Anna and Alyssa. It still amazed her at how easily he had accepted the Luthors and their friends.

“Can’t have your mind wandering love,” teased Lex, tugging on her hand.

Chloe smiled at him and they slipped out of the dining room and quickly up the stairs.

Lex practically carried her down the hallway to their bedroom on the fair side of the castle. He kicked the door open and after slamming it shut pressed Chloe up against and kissed her hard.

Chloe responded with equal fervour. Hands began ripping clothes. The room was filled with the sounds of wet kisses, heavy breathing, and cloth being torn. Lex groaned loudly as naked flesh met naked flesh. Taking her mouth again, his tongue fought hers for dominance and he pressed her harder against the door.

Chloe ran her hand up and down his back… gracing the curve of his ass every now and then. Lex roughly pushed her thighs apart and cupped her groin. Moaning into her mouth at the wetness he found there.

“Lex,” she cried, tearing her mouth away to breath. He ran his finger up and down her slit, gathering the growing moisture. He was so hard… his cock felt so hot and heavy.

His mouth moved down her neck to her breasts. He licked, sucked and bit at her nipples as he worked his fingers into her.

“Oh gods Lex… please… don’t tease,” she gasped. “I need…”

Lex moved his mouth back up to hers. Grabbing her waist he lifted her up. Chloe wrapped her legs around his hips.

“Guide me home Chloe.”

Giving him a feral smile Chloe rested one hand on his shoulder and reached down between them with the other. Grabbing his cock, she stroked it a few times, causing him to growl her name. “What did you say about teasing?” he warned, his hands tightening on her hips.

She guided the tip of him to her pussy, rubbing the head up and down over her nether lips.

“Now Chloe… please love!”

She placed him at her entrance, crying out as the head easily slipped into her.

She brought her hand back to his shoulders. “Do it,” she whispered against his lips before capturing them in a kiss. Digging his fingers into her hips, Lex pushed forward… hard.

They groaned each other’s name as he buried his cock in her. Releasing her mouth the stared into each other's eyes. Chloe could feel him filling her, his cock pulsing inside her as her inner muscles stretching to accommodate him. Lex could feel her wet and hot around him… he groaned each time her inner muscles contracted around him.

Chloe moved her hips… urging him to move. Lex didn’t disappoint and began moving in and out of her. Slowly at first, he wanted to savour the feeling, but after a few minutes at this pace Chloe was getting impatient.

“Faster Lex,” she panted, burying her face in his neck and nibbling at the mark. When he didn’t speed up she bit into his neck, hard, drawing blood.

With a roar Lex vamped out and began pounding into her; harder and faster with each thrust.

Grinning Chloe threw her head back as her body jerked with the force of his fucking. Lex slammed even harder when he saw his blood on her lips. Chloe ran her hands down his back, slick with sweat and grabbed his ass, pulling him into her. The fucking would have been painful had it not felt so pleasurable.

She slowly licked her lips, gathering up the blood that was on them.

“Fuck Chloe,” he growled covering her mouth. Their tongues lashed against each other. Chloe sliced hers on his fangs and Lex eagerly sucked at the blood that flowed from the cut.

Lex pulled his head back and withdrew himself from her. Chloe groaned at the loss. But Lex quickly turned her around, pressing her face against the door and entered her from behind. Panting hard she placed her hands against the door and pushed back as he thrusted forwards.

One hand captured her breast, pinching at the nipple as he other hand moved between her legs. One of Chloe’s hands joined his and they both rubbed and pinched at her swollen clit.

“Close… so fucking close. Please Lex… gods please,” she cried.

“Bend your head,” he growled, and she did.

Lex threw his head back and then just as he slammed harder into her again and brought his head down, sinking his fangs into the back of her neck.

“FUCK…” screamed Chloe and came hard… It was like an explosion in her groin. Her vision faded and she struggled to breath.

Lex withdrew his fangs and placed more bite marks over her shoulders as she came around his cock. His balls drew up and he felt his own orgasm in the base of his spine. Moving his mouth to her neck he bit into his mark as he erupted inside her.

Leaning against the wall they clung to each other as they rode out their climaxes. Slowly, as they came down from their high, they slumped to the ground, their bodies still joined.

“Much better than sleep,” panted Chloe after a few moments.

Lex chuckled as his human face appeared again. He gently kissed her and they lay still joined on the floor for another while.

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

Many hours later Lex lay on the bed, Chloe slowly riding him.

After the frantic pace of the first coupling that theme continued for another while. When both could get up from the floor Lex took her again against the wall. Following that, he bent her over a chair and used his mouth to bring to her climax. Chloe then returned the favour. Then after catching their breath they shared another hard fuck in the shower with a longer more languid coupling in the bath.

Eventually they made it to their bed. Slowly Chloe moved up and down on his cock. Her body ached… but it was a delicious pain. Lex slowly moved his hips in time with hers; there was no rush this time. Chloe’s body bore the bruises and multiple bite marks that Lex had left.

“This night has been like our first time as mates,” she said softly.

“In a way it is,” replied Lex, his hands gently caressing her breasts. “We’ve been apart for so long… we needed to re-establish our bond.” His thumbs rubbed her nipples.

“MMMM, that feels so good,” she sighed, arching into his hands.

Lex smiled loving seeing her like this.

“Many nights like this to come Chloe.”

“I like the sound of that,” she smiled at him, before leaning down and capturing his lips.

And they continued to make love.

teejei

7th August 2006, 13:06

ahhhhhhhhhhh....v.good reunion boinking. *applause* *standing ovation*

off to drool some more....

lj715

7th August 2006, 13:17

OH...MY...GOD!!!!!! I'm supposed to be getting the kids up for camp but they can wait one or 15 min. This was SOOO GOOD. Glad that everyone is back home, only hope that Byron can get Karl better. Chloe & Lex reaquainted smut was perfecto!!!!! Now, only another one or two more chapters like that & I'll be very happy. :D Great , great chapter & an excellent surprise to wake up to.

Alizaleven

7th August 2006, 13:58

DERRRRR lol haha I feel like I've gone to jello ... that was so steamy and hott and wow lol goodness great job.. can't wait for the update!!! :D

Queen Of Tact

7th August 2006, 14:55

Good lord what a way to wake up this morning... Mmm what a perfect way to start the day... I'm so glad you posted early and I was able to read this at home and not at work.... What a great update, and yummy hot smut!
I can't wait to read more...

*hugs*
CC

buckles squared

7th August 2006, 15:18

I'm glad that Chloe and Lex are back together. Now I can concentrate on the rest of the storyline!

letia84

7th August 2006, 16:13

Lex’s demon cried in relief, as it tasted its mate’s blood again. He didn’t take too much; he just needed to reassure himself of their bond. So after a mouthful he retracted his fangs and licked at the small puncture wound till it stopped bleeding.
This has reassured me that Chloe is 100 okay. If something was wrong with her then Lex would have tasted it in her blood. Good, good, good.

“Welcome back,” grinned Anna, hugging him.

“Still got it,” teased Lucas, wrapping his arms around her.
:rofl: Lucas has still got it alright.

‘Oh you are right,’ she replied. ‘I am very tired, sleep sounds like a very good idea.’

Lex looked around and stared at her.

‘SLEEP. You want to sleep!’

‘It has been a very tiring experience for me,’ she said, an evil grin on her face. ‘Sleep will be good for me.’

‘Me buried inside you, fucking you into exhaustion will be better for you.’

‘Really, so you’re a doctor now?’
:rofl: This was so nice to read. The two of them talking and have witty banter. I love it that they are back together. Couldn't have taken much more if they were apart.

After the frantic pace of the first coupling that theme continued for another while. When both could get up from the floor Lex took her again against the wall. Following that, he bent her over a chair and used his mouth to bring to her climax. Chloe then returned the favour. Then after catching their breath they shared another hard fuck in the shower with a longer more languid coupling in the bath.
I must say lovely smutty goodness but I feel cheated by this chapter. I guess I was looking foward to reading about all these times they had sex, against the wall, in the shower and in the tub. Don't mind me I'm just Vamp Chlex Smut spoiled but now that they are back together there is more smutty goodness to come. :yeahbaby:

Great update and I can't wait for Karl to get better so they can take Oliver out once and for all. Fiona http://www.devotedfansnetwork.com/forums/images/smilies/yourock.gif

kcsgirl82

7th August 2006, 18:15

Thank god Lex and Chloe are finally reunited!!!!!
I hope Oliver finally gets whats coming to him and that Karl gets better because Elena can't lose him!!!!
Thanks for the wonderful update, Please update again soon!

eternitychlex

7th August 2006, 18:21

That was amazing....I can not wait for more........please update soon..........

Lune

7th August 2006, 18:32

*biggrin* What a way to wake up! That was awesome and heart warming ^.^ Can't wait till Karl gets better ; ;

teb85

7th August 2006, 22:40

OMG that was fantastic, Loved it and roll on next monday !!

westwingwolf

7th August 2006, 23:46

OK I should not be reading something so hot when the weather here is already unbearable. 'Bout damn time though. Silly Chloe thinking they should wait, they could have had their moment in the car, and everything in the room would still be amazing. And teasing poor Lex like that was not nice, but it was funny.

Lucas was funny when he returned home. Loved all of the little reunions. I'm still hoping that Karl will recover.

Now you don't plan on having Lex and Chloe leave their room for a few more chapters, right? I mean there are servants who can bring food if they dare get close to the door. They really have no reason to leave for say five more chapters, that sounds about right.

lilinny

8th August 2006, 00:49

What a reunion!!! Yeah baby!!! More smut!!

elitekat

8th August 2006, 02:12

*lights a cigarette* That was great!!! I can't wait until Oliver dies for REAL. Stupid evil mega-vamp. Update soon :D

slayer44

8th August 2006, 05:33

Now that's how every reunion should be. So glad she's back in Lex's arms. No they can focus on taking down Oliver.

gravelgerdie

8th August 2006, 06:08

Great up date girl.. Chlex was awesome

Suzanne

xiaoyouangel

8th August 2006, 06:46

nice updat...a lot of lovin from chlex...hope carl will be okay soon...

Gaia

8th August 2006, 09:17

Talk about re-establishing a bond......
Great work as always Fiona:)

angelines

8th August 2006, 17:56

danm..... that was good keep up the good work

txalb

9th August 2006, 19:29

Well, it took me two whole days of doing nothing but reading this but I finally got through it. And I have to say, you caught my attention with the first few chapters and were able to keep it through the 169th. Great job. You have me really looking forward to what happens next.

carolannw5

10th August 2006, 04:24

Excellent!

Lex and Chloe back together and having some fun!

That was really hot!:devil:

gravelgerdie

10th August 2006, 04:54

Anytime Chloe and Lex get together, its Heat:)
Great job

Suzanne

Btab12207

10th August 2006, 18:05

FANTASTIC update! The reunion was great! Keep up the awesome work. Can't wait to see what the Luthors have in store for Oliver.

starmoon

10th August 2006, 22:23

that was so hot and sexy!!!!!!!!! :drool: :drool:

Shy Butterfly

12th August 2006, 12:24

Wow that was some reunion....

Great update!!!!!!!!!!

Lillian

12th August 2006, 16:43

Great, finally Lex and Chloe are together again, and that is so hot!!!!
Wonderful chapter.

meg20

14th August 2006, 11:13

That was so great!!!

Finally some Chlex smut and so happy that Chloe is back with her family!!!

pipersmum

14th August 2006, 12:22

wow that was exactly what I had been hoping for thankyou :) I just love vampire chlex smut :drool:

I hope Karl is going to get better and I can't wait to see what happens next. Fiona you are the best......... :respect:

ruafair

14th August 2006, 18:02

'lo all..... Just a quick drop in to post and then run... I have to go back to stupid work :mad: Anyways hope you enjoy it.... And hello to the new Sanguis groupies... :grin3: Fiona

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Chapter Hundred and Seventy – A Welcome Calm

After fleeing Scotland Oliver headed to his homeland… Germany. There were still plenty of humans and demons there that would harbour him. He was in pain… something he had had not felt since Dominic brought him back. His pride was hurt, and boy did that smart a hell of lot more than he thought it would.

And one human female had been the cause off all this. One stupid bitch had managed to scupper all his carefully laid out plans.

“I am going to make Chloe Sullivan watch as I torture her mate till he is a pile of dust. And then I am going to make her *beg* me to kill her.”

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“Hey,” said Chloe softly, entering the room where Karl was.

“Hi Chloe,” Elena whispered, not taking her eyes from Karl.

“How is he doing?” she asked taking the seat opposite her friend.

“No change… granted he hasn’t got any better, but thankfully he hasn’t got any worse.”

“Elena, how are you doing?” she asked, placing her hand over Elena’s.

“Oh bearing up,” she replied, forcing a sad smile onto her face.

Chloe cocked an eyebrow at her and squeezed her hand. “OK, that was the bullshit answer. So how about you give me the real one?”

Elena closed her eyes as tears filled them.

“Oh god Chloe,” she cried as the tears slowly made their way down her cheeks. “I am so scared. I’m afraid to leave him, even for a moment in case he’s gone when I get back. I can’t sleep, every time I close my eyes I see him crumble to dust…”

By now she was sobbing. Chloe jumped from her seat and took the crying girl in her arms. “Hush Elena, Karl is strong… very strong, he will pull through.” She hugged the other girl, slowly rocking her back and forth.

Elena’s cries grew as she let all her emotions out. She had been holding back ever since that night in Scotland and now she just couldn’t anymore. Once those first tears had started the dam had opened.

Chloe continued to hold her friend… whispering to her, trying to offer as much comfort as she could.

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“Chloe is with Elena,” said Lex as he entered Lionel’s study. “I’d leave the two of them for a while.”

“Poor Elena,” said Lillian. “I don’t think she’ll survive if Karl doesn’t pull through.”

“The poor child hasn’t slept, she has barely fed since they got back,” added Anna.

“Well then Chloe is the best person to be with her. She’ll get her to feed,” smiled Gabe. “I think Elena just needs to let it all out, all the emotions she’s being holding back. I agree with Lex on leaving them alone for a while.”

“Is there any good news on his condition?” Lionel asked Byron.

“There is no change. He was severely beaten and lost a lot of blood, not only from his injuries but the group of vampires that attacked him, fed on him as well. It’s like his demon has shut down his body. The cuts and physical injuries have healed, now it’s just a case of waiting.”

“Any news on Oliver?” asked Lucas.

“Tony has been checking with some of Oliver’s contacts that still remain; ones that don’t know that he works for us of course. And the initial reports are that he’s left Scotland and headed to main land Europe,” said Sergi.

“I would say he has gone to Germany to lick his wounds.” Natasha said. “It is his homeland, and he could disappear there while he plots his next move.”

“Doesn’t take a genius to figure out what his next move will be,” chuckled Lionel.

“So then Lucas why don’t you tell us what he next move will be,” Lex smirked at his brother.

“HA. HA. Very funny,” replied Lucas. “Oliver’s next move, and I’ll use small words so that Lex can understand, will…”

“Behave, the pair of you,” warned Lillian.

“Yes mother,” they both said at the same time.

“Obviously Oliver’s next move will be revenge on all of us for messing up his grand plan,” announced Gabe.

“Precisely,” agreed Lionel. “And top of his list will be you Lex, and Chloe.”

“Well then we have the advantage,” grinned Lex.

“Homicidal demon coming for you and we have an advantage,” said a surprised Lucas. “Anyone not seeing what this advantage is?”

“Go on Lex,” encouraged Lionel, knowing his son was onto something.

“Oliver is coming after us,” continued Lex, “which means we can set the pace. If we plant the right clues at the right times we can effectively lead him into a trap.”

“And by doing this we can pretty much decide when we will take him down,” exclaimed Lillian. “Oh well done Lex.”

“Ok hold on… I’m still not getting this,” interrupted Lucas.

“Lucas, the bottom line is that we are going to let Oliver find us,” smirked Lex. “But on our terms.”

“Oh. So we are going to use you and Chloe as bait to bring Oliver out.”

“Yes… that’s it.”

“And you couldn’t have said that at the very beginning,” teased Lucas.

“Of course not… It’s much more fun watching you trying to use your brain.”

“Boys… you have been warned once already,” said Lillian although she had a small smile on her face.

“Yes mother,” they replied, identical smirks on their faces.

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Elena, exhausted from crying fell asleep in Chloe’s arms. Smiling softly at her friend Chloe gently manoeuvred her so that she was leaning on the bed. She placed Elena’s hand in Karl’s and threw a blanket over the sleeping vampiress.

“You have to come back to us Karl,” she whispered to the unconscious Karl. “You’re destroying that girl. If you don’t she won’t be long in following you, and I don’t think you want that to happen. You are both my friends and I care about the two of you. Elena and I have these plans for the future… plans that involve our children causing untold amounts of mischief. Now those plans won’t come to fruition if you’re not around. Elena believes you are the ‘one’ for her… that the two of you are destined to be mates. I’m inclined to agree with her. So you think about what I just said Karl and you come back to us.”

Chloe wiped at her teary eyes and after kissing Karl’s cheek and Elena’s forehead she slipped quietly out of the room.

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“You’re sad,” commented Lex as he joined Chloe on the couch. “I can feel it,” he kissed her forehead.

Chloe sighed and curled up against him.

Lex smiled and wrapped his arms around her, holding her close. “He’ll be fine,” he said. “And so will Elena.”

“I hope you’re right. I really do. What was decided at the meeting?”

“Everyone knows what Oliver’s next move is going to be.”

“Yes, coming after us. Actually that could so work to our advantage… we could lead him on a wild goose chase and then into a trap.”

“Smart girl,” said Lex proudly. “It took a lot more spelling out for Lucas to figure that out.”

Chloe chuckled. “So what’s the plan?” She turned in his arms so that she faced him.

“Nothing concrete yet. We are waiting for a couple of the other master vampires to arrive. One of them being Claudio.”

“Ah I get to meet to infamous Claudio. Natasha says he is very powerful.”

“He is… quite the reclusive. Obviously he wants to see Oliver taken down. And apparently he’s bringing a guest with him. He won’t say who it is, but that some of us will be surprised when we see them.”

“Do you think Oliver will fall for a trap?” she asked.

“He’s just had his ass royally kicked. Revenge is going to be top of his list of things to do. He will be driven by his need for vengeance. With all his focus on that he will be more likely to make mistakes, and to fall for a trap.”

“Having all his energies focussed on just one thing will make him blind to everything else that is going on.”

“Exactly Chloe… And *that* is why using us as bait will be the key to our success.”

“This will be it, won’t it,” she said. “This will be the final battle so to speak.”

“Yes,” whispered Lex brushing his lips over her temple. “It has to end love… At least this way it will be on our terms.”

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“Death… Hurt… Pain… Torture,” grunted Oliver as he tore the building apart with his bare hands. In full demon mode he punched through walls, killing any idiot that got in his way.

His reputation had been severely damaged by the events in Scotland. So much so that his number of followers had been depleted. He no longer commanded the fear and respect he used too. Word of Lex Luthor and his human mate’s victory had resonated through the vampire and demon world. The Luthor’s respect and standing had been increased even more while his had become almost non-existent. He was no longer being viewed as the leader of the vampire world… That honour was being readied for Lionel Luthor and his family.

He was an ancient and powerful demon. The world had barely seen a third of what he was capable of. He had played the waiting game… he had tried to methodically plan his domination. But not anymore, the proverbial gloves were off.

He’d never been this angry in his life. Raw fury coursed through him… he needed to destroy. And every human or demon that he came across took on the faces of Lex Luthor and Chloe Sullivan, which only increased his anger.

He was in a military building just outside Dresden, a place he used to work. Behind him was a small team of those still loyal to him.

He smashed through the last wall and found himself in the underground arsenal. This room housed guns, ammunition, and bombs, everything he needed to start and finish a war.

A few minutes later his minions joined him.

“Take everything,” he commanded. “I don’t want a single bullet left. Move it all to the warehouse and then meet me at the next one in Berlin. As soon as that one has been hit we move onto Russia. I think we should help world peace by taking any nuclear weapons they may have lying around.

No longer would he depend on magic and spells and drugs. Brute force would be the way to go; brute force and explosives; lots and lots of explosives. He was going to bring down the whole world on the Luthors. And then he was going to take Chloe Sullivan and he was going to make her suffer… for an eternity.

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Elena moaned softly as she awoke from her sleep. There was a pressure on her hand. Something squeezing. As the veil of sleep left her Elena lifted her head and looked down at her hand. It was wrapped in Karl’s and the pressure she felt was him squeezing.

“Karl,” whispered, then repeated his name much louder. There was no obvious response from him but after a few moments he squeezed her hand again.

“That’s it Karl, come back,” she cried. She didn’t want to leave him.

“DAVID,” she shouted. “DAVID.”

A minute the later the butler ran into the room. “Miss…Miss Falchi, what is wrong?” he panted slightly and Elena felt a little sorry for making the old man run.

“David, sorry to have startled you,” she began, Karl still squeezing her hand. “But please can you get Byron here immediately. I can’t leave him.”

“Of course miss, I’ll get him immediately.”

He hurried out of the room.

“Come on Karl… again.”

As if he heard her he squeezed her hand again.

“That’s it,” she cried, happiness in her voice for the first time in days.

“What? What’s wrong?” panted Byron entering the room. He wasn’t alone; Lillian, Gabe and Lucas were with him.

“He squeezed my hand,” said Elena. “He’s still squeezing it.”

“Has there been any other movement?” asked Byron as he moved to the bed and began checking Karl.

“No,” replied Elena.

“Release his hand.”

“But…”

“Please my dear, I want to test something.”

Very reluctantly Elena removed her hand from Karl’s.

Nothing happened for a moment and then he admitted a very low growl. His eyes moved rapidly behind his eyelids and a low moan came from him.

“Elena, take his hand again,” instructed Byron.

She did so immediately. As soon as her hand touched Karl’s, the young vampire settled down again. He stopped moaning and his eyes became still again behind his eyelids.

“This is very good,” said Byron. “He is responding, slowly but it is a start.”

“He is making his way back,” smiled Lillian. “Back to you Elena.”

“It’s your touch the he’s using as his anchor. I think young Karl will be ok,” said Gabe. He stepped up behind Elena and squeezed the young vampire’s shoulder.

“Well Elena, tell him to hurry up,” Lucas said. “We need to good boy’s night out.”

Elena smiled through her tears, her happy tears; Karl was going to be ok.

lj715

14th August 2006, 18:19

Woohoo!!!! Karl is responding to Elena, I'm so glad. The Luthor's have the upper hand with Oliver but, I think he has something HORRIBLE planned with all the weapons he's collecting. Another great chapter & can't wait for the next one. Chloe & Lex need more reunion smut in the next chapter .... only a suggestion (lol).

letia84

14th August 2006, 18:20

woohoo and update. :hug:

“And you couldn’t have said that at the very beginning,” teased Lucas.

“Of course not… It’s much more fun watching you trying to use your brain.”

“Boys… you have been warned once already,” said Lillian although she had a small smile on her face.

“Yes mother,” they replied, identical smirks on their faces.
:rofl: I love this. Lex is back to his old self teasing Lucas.

“Ah I get to meet to infamous Claudio. Natasha says he is very powerful.”

“He is… quite the reclusive. Obviously he wants to see Oliver taken down. And apparently he’s bringing a guest with him. He won’t say who it is, but that some of us will be surprised when we see them.”
OH no. I know who this will be. I can't image what will happen to her. Chloe will remember her and it will be the end for her usless Claudio saves her again.

Elena smiled through her tears, her happy tears; Karl was going to be ok.
Another party is in order. :nsparty: So happy that Karl is not going to die. I was kind worried for a moment.

Poor Oliver....NOT! I'm so glad he is in pain right now. He needs to be in more pain then he needs to be a pile of dust. He's getting all those weapons and that scares me a bit.

I can't wait to see what happens next. :devil:

ETA: lj715 how the heck did you beat me on the post?

lj715

14th August 2006, 19:35

ETA: lj715 how the heck did you beat me on the post?

Just happened to log in @ just the right time. :D

biscuits

14th August 2006, 20:18

I'm so glad that Karl will be alright and I like Lex's idea for trapping Oliver. It seems like we're heading for the home straightaway and I'm excited

Shy Butterfly

14th August 2006, 20:39

I'm glad that Karl is geting better!!!!

Thanks for the great update!!!

westwingwolf

14th August 2006, 21:44

Okay I did a lot of happy dances while reading this update.

First I did a happy dance just because it was Monday and that meant update.

Then Lucas and Lex teased each other. I missed that so much during the time that Chloe was missing. Missed it almost as much I missed the Chlex. So another happy dance.

Chloe thinks exactly like Lex. Happy dance!

The news that Claudio is arriving and they don't know he's bringing Lynette. I smell trouble. I'm kinda hoping for a small cat fight. In anticipation, I did another happy dance.

Yay! Karl is going to be alright! That got the biggest happy dance of all. I'm so happy now that he's okay and Elena will be better for this. And they can all start to do fun things again.

Oliver got no happy dances. Except for the fact that he's not as powerful as he once was. And he's obviously going to start getting careless. Those got mini Happy dances, as I don't care to exert too much energy in the name of Oliver. I'll save it for when he's dead and do the happy dance over his ashes. And may I suggest that Oliver needs to invest in Prozac or Zoloft or something, the demon is certifiable.

pipersmum

14th August 2006, 22:00

Woohoo Karl is going to be alright thats good news and I loved how Lex and Chloe thought alike :D

But now I am sad I have to wait another week for more, life sucks sometimes!!! ;)

teb85

14th August 2006, 22:36

Fantastic as usual !! I'm pleased Karl is going to be ok !! i'm looking forward to next Monday already !!

sarahnicole

14th August 2006, 23:53

Yessss. Karl's going to be ok!! WOO! I second teb85, I'm already looking forwards to next Monday too! Bring on the bait-and-burn plan, I can't wait to see Oliver go down.

lilinny

15th August 2006, 01:58

Karl is back from the dead!!! Woohoo!!!! I can't wait until Claudio brings Lynette. Let the fireworks begin!!!!

eternitychlex

15th August 2006, 05:42

Love it............I am so happy that Carl is going to be o.k...........When Chloe sees that the guest(girl) Claudio is bringing is none other then that vampire that wanted to hit her and was taunting her about Lex, she is so going to be pissed off, not to mention Lex..............Please update soon..................I hope Oliver doesn't get Chloe again.............I love this story.........

xiaoyouangel

15th August 2006, 15:19

its great the karl is ok...i bet its the powerful talk of chloe which made it happened...cant wait for the meeting of the luthors and lynette...

Lune

15th August 2006, 21:22

YAY! I'm happy Karl will be okay, and maybe his Demon will realise what Karl and Eleana's human sides have already figured out ^.^

Now, I know this is such a minor part to the story, but since we have Chloe back, I think we need to have Lucas go back to teasing Lana and Nell again. lol. anyone agree? ;p

SianUrsula

15th August 2006, 22:53

OK, YAY, finally caught up to date. Wonderful wonderful fic, but you already knew that didn' you? Don't know what to say really, just keep up the amazing work!!! Can't wait for more.

Willower

16th August 2006, 06:04

i just realized that this fic has been going on for over 2 years...amazing.

jo_anne_storm

19th August 2006, 00:09

Have I mentioned lately that I adore this story? I haven't? Oops. I do. I love this story.

carolannw5

19th August 2006, 07:31

Excellent Chapter!

Love this story!

Thank goodness Karl is getting better!

Oliver just plain creepy!

:respect:

Lillian

19th August 2006, 23:04

Karl will be fine!! Karl will be fine!! Great!!!!!
I can't wait to see how Lex respond when Lynette arrives to Luthor's Castle.

meg20

20th August 2006, 13:16

Exellent!

Glad that Karl is getting better and some brotherly fun is always a ponus. Love it when Lex is making fun of Lucas!:grin3:

Hope that Oliver won't get a canche to use these nuclear bombs and will soon find his end, but then we won't have no more this story, so make it as long as possible!:D

stwbrrydelight

21st August 2006, 10:47

ok, must admit the Lex/Chloe reunion left me a little more than winded...had to take a breather after that one.
Now that Karl and Elana have created such a bond it will be wonderfull to see it come to fruitation..hint, hint, hint
Oliver is such an a$$...hope he is as dumb as he acts and falls for the Luthors plan
Also, more of Gabe and Ana please...would love to see them become more also

Queen Of Tact

21st August 2006, 13:48

lalalalala it's monday it's monday, and we all know what that means UPDATE TIME!!!!!! Or as some like to call it "the only good thing about monday"

:D
CC

Dark Topaz

21st August 2006, 16:12

amen ^^^

ruafair

21st August 2006, 18:18

Hey all..... Glad everyone is happy that Karl is ok... I love that you like and care about the other characters.. :D And I love Gabe and Anna together, I think Gabe deserves some happiness... :grin3: ....... Fiona

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Chapter Hundred and Seventy One – Clearing the Air

“There have been a number of raids on arms depots across Germany,” said Lars as he took his seat. “Thank you Chloe,” he smiled at her when she handed him his drink. “And welcome back.”

“It’s good to be back,” she replied and then took her place beside Lex.

“The raids have been brutal and highly efficient. No one was left alive, and every weapon, bullet and computer data relating to the depots where taken.”

“Oliver,” said Lionel.

“Yes,” nodded Lars. “He’s getting ready for war. The word is that he’s had enough of spells and magic. It’s brute force from now on. And he’s only hiring humans and vampires that have reputations for, well, being bastards. He has also been reported as saying that if there is even a hint of a traitor in his midst he would personally rip that person apart.”

“Way to look after the minions,” murmured Chloe.

Sergi glanced at the clock. “Claudio and guest are due to be here in about an hour. I spoke to him briefly earlier and he has some more news for us.”

“Ok everyone, we’ll continue our discussions when he gets here,” said Lionel. “We meet back here in an hour.”

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“Relax,” grinned Claudio, resting his hand on the twitching knee of Lynette.

“Relax,” she gasped. “How the fuck can I relax? Lex Luthor and I did not part on the best of terms. Actually he threw me out in the street just as the sun was rising. I barely made it to safety. And his mate and I didn’t part on friendly terms. They’ll stake me on sight. Part of me wouldn’t blame them if they did,” she whispered the last part.

Claudio rolled his eyes; he really had no time for dramatics.

Grabbing Lynette’s shoulder her turned her till she faced him. “Ok first, they will not stake you, because I won’t let them. Second Lex has Chloe back, he’s much calmer now,” he grinned. “Third, despite what Lex and Chloe may think of you, you did help, and that won’t be forgotten by them or any of the others. Yes the atmosphere may be a little strained but we are all here for a common cause…”

“Bringing down Oliver,” she said.

“Precisely.” Claudio leaned back in his seat and pulled Lynette with him. She rested her head on his chest while he wrapped an arm around her. “It will be ok,” he reassured her. “And if it’s not, I won’t tell them what we know.”

Lynette laughed and snuggled closer to him. Smiling Claudio pressed a kiss to her forehead before looking out the window at the passing fields.

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“Where are we going Anna?” asked Gabe as she dragged him along the corridor.

“You’ll see when we get there,” she teased.

Climbing two more flights of stairs she led him into one of the many attics in the castle. This one had a set of large doors that led out to a small balcony. The sun had just set and the moon was casting an eerie hue over the Luthor estate.

“What’s this about?” asked Gabe, joining her on the balcony.

Anna took Gabe’s hands in hers and faced him.

“I don’t know how much you know about my past Gabe.”

“I only know what you have told me Anna. I never asked Lillian or any of the others about you. I figured that when you wanted me to knows things you would tell me yourself.”

Anna smiled at him. “I’ve never met anyone quite like you Gabe Sullivan. I can see why Chloe thinks you are so special.”

“Now Anna, you’re making me blush,” teased Gabe. “Why are we here?” he asked softly.

“We all face an uncertain future, at least until we settle this *thing* with Oliver. About 100 years ago I would have been quite happy to take on a suicide mission and go after Oliver myself. I haven’t had a good life Gabe, and if it weren’t for Lillian I would have walked into the sun to stop the pain. I had a mate, a wonderful, wonderful man… I was about a month away from giving birth to our first child when he was captured and killed by a hunter. The grief and rage was so intense I tore an entire hunter’s camp apart with my bare hands. Forty-two hunters, male and female died by my hands that night, including the one who had taken my Didier.”

Anna dropped Gabe’s hands and turned away from him. “That wasn’t the end of the pain,” she continued. “I lost my baby that night as well, the one thing that might have helped ease the loss of my mate. I just wanted to cease to exist. I ran away. Stowed onto a ship headed for the Americas and left everyone I knew behind. I made my way to Brazil and over the next hundred years just travelled around South America, always making sure I wasn’t seen by anyone that might reveal my position to Lillian or anyone else that was searching for me.”

Gabe stepped forward and rested his hands on her shoulders. “Go on,” he encouraged softly, squeezing her shoulder gently.

“I couldn’t face anymore anniversaries of the day Didier and my baby were taken from me. So when a new year started I stopped feeding. I hid away in a small village in the Andes and waited to die.” Anna’s voice dropped to a whisper. “I was close, very close to the end when Lillian found me. I tried to protest, telling her I wanted to die, but I was so weak and tired. Everything became black and when I woke up I was in a soft bed with a very worried Lillian and Natasha hovering over me. Between the two of them, but especially Lillian they talked to me, berated me, pleaded with me and eventually their words sunk in and both my demon and I wanted to survive. Yes what happened was terrible but I was still alive, still had people that cared for me.”

Blinking back tears Gabe spun her around and hugged her close. Anna’s arms wrapped around his waist and she buried her head into this chest. Gabe held her close, rocking her gently.

After a few moments Anna lifted her head to look at Gabe. He smiled softly at her as he brought up his hands to cup her face. Gently he brushed away the tears with his thumbs. “Ok now?” he whispered.

Anna nodded and smiled.

“Thank you for telling me,” he said.

“I wanted… no I needed you to know everything. If we survive this up and coming battle I… I would really like you to be part of my future. “ Anna bowed her head, suddenly feeling very embarrassed. “I mean of course… if you want to be part it…”

Tipping her chin to lift her face to his Gabe kissed her gently. He cupped her cheek in one hand while his other arm slipped around her waist, Anna’s arms wrapped around his neck.

“I would like nothing more than to be part of your future,” whispered Gabe when they parted.

Anna gave him a bright smile and hugged him. Sending a silent thank you to the tenacious Lillian Luthor for bringing this incredible woman back from the brink, Gabe kissed her softly and held her close they both looked out over the estate.

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“How is our patient doing?” asked Natasha as Byron entered the room.

“Getting stronger,” replied the old man. “Still groggy and drifting in and out of consciousness but he is making a recovery.”

“And how is Elena?” asked Christine, bouncing Mila on her lap.

“She’s like a new woman,” Byron took a seat beside Christine and smiled at the laughing baby. “Although she is still very reluctant to leave Karl’s side. My you are getting big,” he said to Mila, tickling her under the chin.

Mila laughed and grabbed Byron’s finger.

“I’m glad both of them are ok,” said Natasha.

“I’ve been thinking,” stated Lillian as she entered the room, closely followed by Lucas and Nikolas.

“Hello my darling,” cooed Nikolas taking his daughter and kissing Christine gently.

“Always a dangerous thing mom, you thinking,” teased Lucas.

“Brat,” said Lillian, a grin on her face. “Anyway, like I said I’ve been thinking. With everything that has happened Christmas and New Year came and went without us even noticing it. I’m not suggesting we decide to have Christmas now, I’m not even suggesting a party like we normally have. I just think it would be nice for all of us here to celebrate… being here. Family and close friends, Zhang and Lars are already here, we’ll get them to bring their mates and everyone else that is here will make it a special occasion. What do you all think?”

“Excellent.”

“Great idea.”

“I’m all for that.” Where the exuberant responses and Lillian smiled.

“Perfect, that’s what I was hoping you would say. Natasha, of course I’ll need your assistance, and Anna’s as well.”

“Of course,” grinned Natasha. “I look forward to it.”

“What did dad say when you told him?” asked Lucas. “And you haven’t told him,” he added when he saw the look on his mother’s face.

“Your father will be just as happy to celebrate,” said Lillian. ‘And if he’s not he can pretend to be happy,’ she added silently.

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“Chloe, Lex,” smiled Anna.

“Chloe sweetheart, Lex,” said Gabe, with the same smile.

“Gabe, Anna,” greeted Lex, raising an eyebrow.

“Dad, Anna,” said Chloe. “You ok dad? You seem… different.”

“I’m fine Chloe, in fact, I couldn’t be better,” he grinned at Anna.

“Ok, if you say so,” Chloe said, not sounding convinced. There was definitely something up.

“Oh I do. Well, we’ll see you in main dining room for the meeting when Claudio and his guest arrive. Bye for now.” He and Anna walked away, and it was only then that Lex and Chloe noticed that Gabe and Anna where holding hands.

She looked at Lex, who was grinning knowingly.

“Oh, eew, no, so not thinking that,” said Chloe, shuddering as she realised what Lex’s grin was for.

“Come on Chloe, don’t you think it’s sweet,” teased Lex.

“Stop it Lex. This is my dad… Argh I have to go scrub out the inside of my mind.”

Lex laughed and pulled her into a hug. “It is a good match love.”

“I know it is. I really like Anna and think she is very good for my dad and I want him to be happy more than anything. But it’s my dad, and he’s, like, old.”

Lex’s laughter increased. “Chloe, hello, 250 year old mate here.”

“It’s not the same Lex,” she replied, a smile appearing on her face.

“Ah young love,” he smirked, kissing her neck and causing Chloe to laugh.

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Lynette could feel the fluttering in her stomach increase as the car began its journey up the driveway to the Luthor castle. Even with Claudio’s reassurances she still felt like getting out of the car and running as far away from this place as she could get.

As the castle loomed closer the feeling of despair grew within her.

“You will be fine,” whispered Claudio, taking her hand and squeezing it gently.

“No I won’t, but thanks anyway,” she replied, linking her fingers through his.

The car came to a stop. The gravel crunched under the driver’s feet as he moved around to open the door for them.

“Thank you,” said Claudio as he exited the car. Lynette muttered her thanks as she got out and quickly grabbed Claudio’s hand again.

As they approached the main doors they opened to reveal a man standing there. “Welcome,” he said. “The master, mistress and the others are waiting for you.”

Claudio and Lynette entered the castle.

“Make I take your coats,” asked David.

Claudio removed his, helped Lynette off with hers and then handed both to David. “You don’t need to announce us,” he said. “I’d rather we made our own entrance.”

“Very well sir,” said David. “Head down the corridor, take a left, and the main dining room is the second door on the right hand side.”

“Thank you. Come on Lynette,” he all but dragged her down the corridor.

“Master Lex is not going to be happy when he sees *her*,” muttered David with a smile.

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

Lionel and Lillian shared a knowing look when Gabe and Anna took their seats. The same look was exchanged between Sergi and Natasha.

“We will talk later,” Natasha whispered in Anna’s ear.

“Yes thank you David,” Lucas hung up the phone. “David said Claudio and guest are on the way.”

“Why didn’t he bring them?” asked Lex.

“He said Claudio wanted to make his own way,” replied Lucas.

“Sounds like Claudio,” smiled Alyssa.

“Very impressive place Lionel,” announced Claudio entering the room. Lynette stuck close behind him, his body blocking hers.

“I always had a soft spot for the medieval-gothic look,” grinned Lionel crossing the room and shaking the other vampire’s hand. “Glad to have you here Claudio. And who is your friend?” asked Lionel spotting the brunette head hidden behind Claudio.

“Before I introduce her I just want to say, my co-operation depends entirely on how she is treated. Anything happens to her and I don’t tell you what I found out and we leave here and go back to Hungary.”

Confused looks coloured everyone’s faces.

“Show yourself my dear,” Claudio whispered to her.

Taking an unneeded breath Lynette stepped from behind him, but kept his hand clasped in hers.

“You,” cried Chloe, jumping to her feet.

“What the fuck is that bitch doing here?” growled Lex, advancing on her.

“Stand down young Luthor,” warned Claudio, stepping in front of the now trembling Lynette.

“I want that whore out of here,” said Lex. “I don’t care what you know, we don’t need it. She,” disgust filling his voice, “is not welcome or wanted here.”

“Lex,” said Lionel, coming up to stand beside his son. “Let us not be hasty. I’m not happy with her being here either, but we do need all the help we can get.”

“She was in Budapest,” said Alyssa. “She did give us valuable information about Oliver’s set up in Scotland.” She turned to her parents, “I’m sorry I didn’t tell you about her, but Claudio made me take a blood promise not too.”

“It’s ok love,” said Natasha, smiling at her daughter.

“Lex love, she’s not worth your temper,” whispered Chloe, taking his hand. “Let’s just hear what they have to say and then we can forget about her.”

Lex looked from Claudio and Lynette to his mate, his anger weaning. “Ok, for you Chloe,” he whispered and kissed her gently. He took her hand and they moved to the other side of the room.

He and Chloe would have to discuss Lynette later when they were alone. Lex was fairly sure that Chloe knew the brunette was a former lover and he wanted to make sure all was ok between them. Holding her hand tightly in his Lex made sure his gaze never landed on Lynette and waited for Claudio to speak.

Lionel moved back to stand beside his wife.

“We should leave,” Lynette whispered to Claudio. “I don’t want to cause any more trouble.”

“Nonsense my dear,” he smiled. “All will be ok.”

“Claudio, I have had the guest house at the back of the castle prepared for you and your guest. Would you rather go there first and talk later,” said Lillian.

“Thank Lillian. But I’ll say what I have to say first. And then Lynette and I will retire for the evening. As you know I normally do not concern myself with the various wars our kind is fond of starting amongst themselves. But this one is different; Oliver is a very real threat to our way of life, and to the way of life of the humans. I have searched through my books and found numerous references to demons like Oliver, although he is not mentioned, but the one you and Lionel met Sergi is, Altair. Altair’s name appears on more than one occasion. I also found a spell, a very powerful one that will bind a demon of Oliver’s strength and power. Unfortunately this spell will only bind him for a couple of minutes. But it should be enough for the killer blow to be administered.”

“It would keep him immobile for long enough to use both horns on him,” said Lex.

“Precisely,” said Claudio. “The spell has to be cast in his presence, and Lex, you and your mate must be ready at the exact moment to administer the horns.”

“Hold on,” interrupted Gabe, “why Chloe and Lex?”

“Of the many prophecies written, one speaks of the fall of the ancient demon at the hands of a powerful pureblood vampire and his human mate.”

“Yes, but that doesn’t necessarily mean Lex and Chloe,” said Lucas, concern heavy in his tone.

“It does,” said Lex. “During *my* talk with Altair he spoke of a prophecy, one that you Chloe were very much part of. It had two outcomes depending on whether or not we rescued you from Oliver.” He turned to her. “I haven’t been able to tell you even though I wanted to. Every time I have tried to tell you, my mouth seemed not to want to work, something Altair put in place to stop me. He said that when the right moment arrived I would be able to tell you. This must be the right time since it’s coming out now. We, you and I have to destroy Oliver. The horns will not have the same effect if anyone else uses them.”

“Holy crap,” muttered Chloe, as she tried to let everything sink in.

“Ok,” Lillian cleared her throat. “I think we have had enough shocks for this evening. Alyssa if you would be so kind as to show Claudio and his friend to the guesthouse. Lex, you and Chloe should probably head off; I think the pair of you need to talk. Everyone else is free to do what he or she wants. And Lionel, I need to speak with you.”

There were murmurs as everyone left the room.

As soon as the room was empty Lillian threw herself into Lionel’s arms. “Oh Lionel, what’s going to happen?”

He couldn’t answer her; he didn’t know what to say. He just held his mate close and they drew on each other’s strength.

Kit Merlot

21st August 2006, 18:57

These last couple of updates were great, Fi!

I have to admit, I'm kind of liking Lynette. I hope she makes it through the story okay.

And Gabe and Anna are adorable together:D Anna's life story was incredibly tragic, but I like that Lillian and Natasha were able to help her through her grief.

Great work.

lj715

21st August 2006, 19:29

Gabe's got a girlfriend, Gabe's got a girlfriend!!!!!!!!! Great update!!!! I'm glad that the Luthor's will be working with Claudio & Lynette. AT this point, they need all the help they can get to defeat Oliver. Ugh, I need more. Can't wait for next chapter.

pipersmum

21st August 2006, 21:06

Great update Fiona I loved it, especially the coupling of Anna and Gabe very sweet! So Chloe and Lex have to be the ones to kill Oliver interesting.

I can't wait for next weeks chapter :)

Alizaleven

21st August 2006, 21:22

Yay! This update was great!! :D Thank you! I can't wait for the next one hehe

westwingwolf

21st August 2006, 22:03

Anna's story breaks my heart every time I hear it. I'm very glad that her and Gabe can be happy together.

Were we ever told the circumstances in which Lex through Lynette out? This was before Chloe, right? I don't know why he would do something like that, despite her previous bad behavior.

Are we going to hear what both of the outcomes are? Because curiosity always wins out on me and I have to know the possible bad outcome even if it never happens.

Oh and now that things have settled a bit and Chloe's safe now, can we see more on the story of how Lucas is screwing with Nell and Lana, because I really miss that. I love teasing Lucas. I'm also wondering if Pete and Lana even realized that Chloe was missing for so long.

I know it seems like I have a lot of annoying questions and I do, but I also want you to know that I really loved this update just I do all others. Mondays never come soon enough, and before this story that would have been the last statement I would ever think about making.

sarahnicole

22nd August 2006, 00:49

So does this mean that Gabe could be joining the vamp ranks eventually, too? Because that would certainly be fantastic. The update was great, I just wish it could have been longer!

stwbrrydelight

22nd August 2006, 06:01

wonderful follow-up to the last couple of chapters.
love seeing more of gabe and anna together.
hope to see some quality time between a healing, but verile, karl and elana

lkedino

22nd August 2006, 06:26

I love this story I was reading and everyone in my home that i was nuts ... Keep up the good work

Gaia

22nd August 2006, 11:51

Let the final battle begin:D
Great update as always:)

Shy Butterfly

22nd August 2006, 15:51

Fantastic update. I'm so glade that Gabe is going to be happy with Anna!

Lillian

22nd August 2006, 17:21

I like the idea of Gabe and Anna will be a couple, that mean Gabe finally will be a vampire.
I'm sure that Chloe and Lex could keep the prophecy.

I want more but today is only tuesday... I only can wait to the nex monday.

letia84

22nd August 2006, 17:34

Anna gave him a bright smile and hugged him. Sending a silent thank you to the tenacious Lillian Luthor for bringing this incredible woman back from the brink, Gabe kissed her softly and held her close they both looked out over the estate.
All right GABE! I love this. He and Anna have spen so much time with one another how could they night fall for on another. Everyone in the Sullivan clan is snagging a vamp.

“I know it is. I really like Anna and think she is very good for my dad and I want him to be happy more than anything. But it’s my dad, and he’s, like, old.”

Lex’s laughter increased. “Chloe, hello, 250 year old mate here.”

“It’s not the same Lex,” she replied, a smile appearing on her face.

“Ah young love,” he smirked, kissing her neck and causing Chloe to laugh.
:rofl: This made me laugh so. Chloe had no right to call someone old. I love that last line that Lex says.

I have to say I was expecting them to toss Lynette out. I love that add bit that Lex did toss her out once into the sun. HA! Lex telling them all that he and Chloe must kill Oliver is troubling. I'm so worried about who is going to make it though this war with Oliver to stock up with weapons now.

I can't wait for the next part.

tiger04

22nd August 2006, 22:58

I can't wait to see what is going to happen next. Lex and chloe are the ones to kill Oliver,:eek: Hope everything turns out ok.

AT

lilinny

23rd August 2006, 00:47

You gave Gabe a girlfriend!!! I love it!! But it feels we're nearing the end of the story. As always a great chapter.

Lune

26th August 2006, 03:13

<3 Gabe & Anna ^_^

Can't wait for more!

meg20

27th August 2006, 16:34

Great update!

It would be wonderful if Chloe and Gabe would both be vampires in the future!
And hope we can have some Chlex discussion about Lynett!

lazybugin

28th August 2006, 02:11

Yay! I finally caught up with this story! I can't belive that youv'e been working on it for two years! That's what i call determination!

This has got to be one of my fave ChLex fic's by far! I'm a big fan of Vamp story's so When i found this i was immedely hooked!

I adore your charaters even the OC one's! Well, All except for Oliver! He sooo needs to die! I hope he sufferers big time for trying to separate Chloe and Lex!

I guess Lucas is my fave charater beside Chloe and Lex of course! He's funny and add's comic relif to the situation!

I also love your interpation of Gabe! We see so little of him on the show and you made him such a likable Charater! I like how he's so excepting of the whole Vamp world! I hope he and Anna will be happy together! They are so cute! That would be cool if he and Chloe can be Vamps together! That way she would always have her dad around!

I also like how you didn't make Clark out to be a bad friend in this story! I like how he's helped the Luthor's save Chloe! I hope he will be a good aid in the war against Oliver!

Thank you so much for your detication to this fic! You truly are an awesome writer and i will look forward to seeing how you bring about the conclusion of this story! I hope you do continue on with a sequel! I would like to see what would happen to the charater's a few year's after this story takes place! And besides I really don't want this great story of yours to come to and end!
Good luck with the next chapter, fiona. I can't wait to see what happens next!

Robin

ruafair

28th August 2006, 17:17

Hey all.. No work today :grin3: so an early post.... Plot takes centre stage for the moment.... Sorry... :yeahbaby: As a few people have pointed out I have been writing this for over two years... I think insanity has played a huge part in that LOL.. But I want to say thank you to everyone who reads and leaves a remark. I treasure and adore every one of them..... Fiona

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

Chapter Hundred and Seventy Two – Pettiness and Prophecies

Lex stood in their bedroom looking out at the small guesthouse. He knew Claudio and Lynette were in there. ‘I don’t need this,’ he thought. ‘I just got Chloe back and now an ex-lover turns up.’

“Are you ok?” asked Chloe, her arms slipping around his waist. She laid her cheek on his back and sighed.

“Just thinking how completely fucked up things are,” he said, covering her hands with his.

“It took an ex-girlfriend turning up to lead you to that theory,” she questioned with a chuckled. “Rampaging demons and funky vampire spirit walks not enough for you?”

Lex turned to face her, slipping his arms around her waist. “She was never a girlfriend Chloe, she was just someone I had…”

“Sex with,” Chloe finished for him. “Lex, it’s ok… You’re over two hundred years old, there’s bound to be quite a few like Lynette around. I will admit it’s not pleasant, and the urge to punch her in the face is rather strong; but I’m your mate… none of them are. It’s me you chose, I can throw that in their faces if I meet anymore.”

Lex smiled and brushed his lips over hers. “We need to talk about what Claudio said, and I need to tell you everything that Altair told me.”

“I know we do, but not now,” murmured Chloe, nuzzling his neck.

Lex smiled and tipped her chin, capturing her mouth in a kiss.

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

Lynette sighed as she watched the silhouettes of Lex and Chloe move away from the window. ‘Yep, coming back here was an astronomical mistake and that first meeting was as bad as I figured it would be,’ she thought.

A knock on the door stirred her from her thoughts. She sensed a couple of vampires on the other side of the door.

“Can you get that,” Claudio called out.

Lynette headed to the door and opened it. There stood Lionel and Lillian Luthor.

“Can we come in?” asked Lillian.

Lynette nodded and stood back allowing them to enter.

“I’ll get Claudio,” she said after depositing them in the living room.

Lionel and Lillian sat on the couch.

‘Keep your temper my dear,’ Lillian said to him.

‘As long as you keep yours love,’ he replied, a smirk on his face.

“Lionel, Lillian,” greeted Claudio as he entered the room. “To what do we owe this pleasure?”

“I’ll just leave you…” began Lunette.

“Nonsense,” said Lillian. “You are welcome to stay if you like.”

Claudio and Lynette took their seats opposite the Luthors. “So what’s this all about Lionel?”

“What are you playing at Claudio? And don’t give me that look; you know exactly what I’m talking about. You could have easily sent on the information about the spell. There was no real need for you the make the journey in person or with your guest,” Lionel’s eyes glanced at Lynette before returning to the older vampire. “So I ask again, what are you playing at?”

“I don’t dislike you either,” he replied. “You did assist in us helping to rescue Chloe, the books you sent back with Alyssa were invaluable in breaking through the wards. But I don’t believe you being here is to help us fight Oliver, at least not completely.”

Lillian placed her hand on Lionel’s arm. She knew his patience wasn’t the best these days, and Claudio had an uncanny knack of pushing her husband to the edge.

“I was interested in meeting your son’s mate… she does feature quite heavily in a prophecy. I also wanted to see Sergi and Natasha again.” Claudio’s eyes narrowed and he leaned forward in his seat. “And I knew bringing Lynette would piss Lex and you off.”

Before either Lionel or Lillian could react Lynette jumped up. “What? So bringing me here, telling me everything would be ok, was all part of some fucked up joke for you.”

Claudio jumped up as well. “No… it’s not…” he began.

“I don’t want to hear it,” she snapped. “I’m sorry…” she said to Lillian and Lionel. “I truly am. I only wanted to help; I thought it would go towards me making amends. I didn’t want to come here; he said it would be ok. I am sorry.”

Lillian felt for the young woman. True she never liked her when she and Lex were together, but she was being sincere, and didn’t deserve this. “It’s ok Lynette,” she said. “I didn’t think it was your idea to come here.”

“Thank you,” she said to Lillian. “Bastard,” she hissed at Claudio. “You’re as bad as Oliver,” and with that stormed out of the room.

Lillian quickly got up and followed her.

“Once again you prove that you can’t rise above petty things,” said Lionel. “Despite your power and age you still haven’t forgiven me for not siding with you. Don’t try and deny it Claudio,” he raised his hand when the other vampire was about to speak. “You were raising an army, you were as bad as my father and Sergi’s. You wanted total power. And when I wouldn’t join you and convinced Sergi and Martin not to as well, you went off and sulked. Hid away in Hungary and surrounded yourself with your books. Yes you may have helped, and I don’t’ doubt that you want Oliver out of the picture, but deep down you still can’t resist trying to have a dig at me. It’s petty and considering we have a very real threat on our doorstep, it’s also pathetic. And using a girl who seems to have put a lot of trust and faith in you was low, even by your standards. Now I don’t care whether you stay or not, nor do I care if you hand over the spell. I think you’re going to have your work cut out for you trying to regain Lynette’s trust.”

Claudio sank to his knees as Lionel swept out of the room. Things had not gone according to plan. Trust Lionel fucking Luthor to figure out he’d have an alternative motive for being here. And now Lynette was angry with him. He had never meant that. Yes part of his reason for bringing her here was to piss Lionel off, but he did *want* her with him, and had always planned on telling her that part of them both being here was a joke. But now he’d messed up… Big time.

Lionel was right; he was going to have his work cut out for him. It had taken long enough the first time to get her to trust him.

------

Lillian caught up with Lynette. “Are you ok?” she asked.

“Why do you care?" cried Lynette, tears on her cheeks.

“Because you did not deserve that. That was a low thing for Claudio to do.”

“I thought he was different. He said he would take care of me, and I believed him. That’s what I get for actually trusting a man.”

“I do believe he has feelings for you my dear, and that he meant what he said. But Claudio has had a grudge against my husband for such a long time, and even now he can’t resist baiting him.”

“I should leave,” sighed Lynette.

“And go where?”

The younger vampiress shrugged her shoulders.

“I think you should stay,” smiled Lillian. “Stay and make Claudio beg for forgiveness.”

Lynette looked at her, and saw the sly smile of the older woman’s face.

“What do you think Lynette?”

“I think if it’s ok with you and your family, I would like to stay.”

“It is ok, and you have made the right choice. I will have a room made up for you in the main castle. Don’t worry I’ll make sure it is far from Lex’s.”

“Thank you Mrs Luthor,” she said softly.

“Well, I have to admit seeing Claudio brought to his knees will make things even better.”

Shaking her head Lynette smiled as she followed Lillian back to the main castle.

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

With a groan Lex pumped his last into Chloe and collapsed. He fell to the side at the last moment, avoiding crushing her. Laying his head on her chest he enjoyed the feeling of his body coming down from its latest climax.

“MMM,” said Chloe, completely sated. She ran one hand gently over his back, the other over his head. “Now wasn’t that much better than talking,” she said.

Lex chuckled softly and popped up on his elbow rested his head in his hand. “Things had definitely turned around when it’s you Chloe, deciding we should have sex instead of talking.”

“Well, I did learn from the master,” she grinned, lifting her head and kissing him softly.

“But we are going to talk now,” he said.

“Spoilsport,” she huffed with a mock pout. After some manoeuvring she mirrored Lex’s pose so that they faced each other.

Smiling Lex slipped his other hand around her waist and pulled her close as Chloe threw her leg between his.

“Comfortable,” he smirked.

“Extremely,” she grinned, kissing him again.

“First off we need to talk about Lynette.”

“Please, no talk of ex-lovers just after we’ve made love,” replied Chloe with a grimace.

“Are you ok about her being here?”

“No, not in the slightest… But she did help, something she didn’t have to do. And I just got the impression from her earlier that she’s not here to make trouble. Claudio probably talked her into coming, I’d say if she had her own way she’d have stayed far away.”

“Smart girl,” grinned Lex. “Claudio and my dad haven’t always got on over the years. Centuries ago just before dad, Sergi and Marcus went to find Altair for the first time Claudio had tried to raise an army, intent on taking over the vampire world. He tried enticing dad to his side, thinking that if he did Sergi and others would join him. But dad was having none of it; he knew Claudio would be just like the others including my grandfather… hell bent on domination. So he refused, Claudio got pissed and stormed off to Hungary, and lived there like a recluse for centuries. Sergi kind of remained close to him, hence why he is Alyssa’s godfather. But deep down Claudio blames dad for him not taking over the vampire world, and as a result he sometimes will try and do something to piss dad off…”

“Like bringing his not long mated son’s ex-love to a family gathering,” finished Chloe. “Damn that is petty,” she continued at Lex’s nod. “And not too mention a pretty shitty thing to do to Lynette.”

“As much as I detest having her here, I do agree with you. She doesn’t deserve to be used as a pawn in one of Claudio’s childish plans. Like you said earlier, I’d say she was convinced to come by Claudio. After everything that has happened I can’t see her coming here of her own free choice.”

“Ok, so what else do you want to talk about?” she pressed closer to him.

“Stop that you teasing wench,” he laughed. “Serious discussion here... I have no time for your seduction. Well not right away anyway,” he added with a leer at her chest.

Chloe rolled her eyes, “ok, oh great restrained one… talk away.”

Lex laughed and pulled her into a tight hug. It was so good having her back. There were times when Oliver had her that he feared he would never see her again. But this… just the two of them lying in bed, joking and teasing each other, even with a demon war about to erupt, was just what they needed. It also showed Lex that she was suffering no emotional or mental effects from her time in captivity.

“What was that for?” she asked when he released her.

“I love you,” he said.

Chloe smiled at him, “I love you too,” she trailed a hand over his jaw.

Lex resisted the urge to kiss her senseless, push her onto her back, and show her just how much he loved her. But that would come later, first they really did have to talk.

“A series of events led Lucas and Clark to a safety deposit box. In it was a list of places, and a rather innocuous looking vase, which they brought back here. No one could open the vase, even Clark couldn’t break it. Research took place, and I’ll skip over the details, but it ended up that only I could open it. When I did there was a bright light and I went on my vampire spirit walk. Before Altair made his appearance, he subjected me to a couple of visions I’d rather not talk about, or think about for that matter.”

Chloe smiled and kissed him softly. “You can tell me about them when you’re ready.”

“Eventually Altair made his appearance,” continued Lex, tightening his arm around her waist. “After some *pleasantries* he told me the reason he executed this elaborate plan was to talk to me. Apparently there is this prophecy, a rather old one by accounts, that talks about Dominic and the resurrection of an ancient demon from the ashes for a new one.”

“Oliver,” said Chloe.

“Precisely,” replied Lex. “But as you may or my not know prophecies don’t usually mention actual names, just appearance, and circumstances. But also part of this particular one is the mention of a son of a powerful master vampire, whose mating with a human female is key to a favourable outcome in the coming war.”

“You and I,” grinned Chloe.

“Well it seems to point to us. There are a number of outcomes to this, depending on what has gone beforehand. One of the outcomes was the really bad one; this would have come about had we not been able to get you from Oliver. Had he succeeded to swaying you to his side, we would have been destroyed and you and he would have ruled.”

“I kind of like the idea of ruling,” teased Chloe. “Just not with him though. Are there outcomes that speak of our success?”

“Yes. In fact all the outcomes that speak of victory for any party mentions you… and in a couple of cases, and this goes against normal prophecy procedures, your name is actually mentioned. Byron will find this fascinating.”

Chloe sat up, “me, Chloe Sullivan, is mentioned by name?”

Lex nodded and sat up as well.

“Wow,” gasped Chloe. “Boring little me… in a prophecy. And I can’t tell anyone, outside of the people here, anything about it. Damn, could you *imagine* the look on Lana Lang’s face.”

Lex laughed as he pulled her to lie down again.

“Sorry,” she grinned. “Just enjoying my moment. So does it tell us how we win?”

“Chloe you are not boring. And no, it doesn’t tell us how to win. Just that the ‘son of the master vampire and his human mate wield the final blow.’”

“All nicely confirmed by Claudio saying that you and I will stab Oliver with the horns,” added Chloe. “Great, like we’re so Oliver’s favourite people in the world, that he is so going to invite us for dinner and give us the opportunity to kill him.”

“Claudio’s spell will give us the opportunity to immobilise him long enough to stab him with the horns.”

“Oh, it’s all so simple when you put it like that,” Chloe rolled her eyes as she snuggled closer to Lex.

“It won’t be simple… but if we can lead Oliver to where we want we have a chance. We need to use his desire to get revenge on you and I to draw him into our trap.”

“Like I said, simple,” grinned Chloe, kissing his neck.

Laughing Lex pushed her on her back and kissed her hard.

“Are we finished talking?” she asked coyly, arching her hips against his.

“For now we are,” he growled and covered her mouth with his again.

meeaz

28th August 2006, 17:36

Congratulations on two years plus! This is a wonderful story and gets better with each twist and turn, not to mention the love (*cough*sex*cough*) lex and chloe share.

letia84

28th August 2006, 17:38

Claudio needs to get over him self. He is far to old to act like such a child. He will leave forever being bitter and petty. :wth:

I must say I like plot but I also like smut and I would like some more. I'm glad Lex told Chloe about what happen to him when he was with Altair.

“Oh, it’s all so simple when you put it like that,” Chloe rolled her eyes as she snuggled closer to Lex.

“It won’t be simple… but if we can lead Oliver to where we want we have a chance. We need to use his desire to get revenge on you and I to draw him into our trap.”

“Like I said, simple,” grinned Chloe, kissing his neck.
Chloe is right sounds easy but I know it won't be. I can't wait to see how this will work out now that Oliver has an army of weapons.

pipersmum

28th August 2006, 17:40

Great update Fiona as usual.
I am glad that Lillian and Lionel had words with Claudio and I actually felt sorry for Lynette :eek:
Chloe Sullivan mentioned in a prophecy is that good??? I hope it is :D
If only they had known sooner Lex would have had a heads up on who his mate was. But then we wouldn't have had the fun of Lex realising he had fallen for a human.
I can't wait for next weeks chapter.

teb85

28th August 2006, 17:45

Fantastic update ! I actually felt a little sorry for Lynette, I still wouldn't trust her and I think that its a good plan Lillian keeping her at the castle to keep an eye on her. I loved the conversation between Chloe and Lex and I really can not wait until next monday !!

ldydee81

28th August 2006, 18:28

that was a wonderful chapter, a little chlex luvin and prophecy talk kept me engrossed. i can't wait to see how the prophecy plays out, i have doubts that chloe and lex's interpretation of the prophecy is actual what is going to happen. you have a great way of keeping everyone on their toes :) i will be waiting in anticipation for the next update :)

lj715

28th August 2006, 20:05

Great chapter!!!!! Who knew Claudio was such a jerk. I felt bad for Lynette too but I can't wait for her to leave the castle. You always leave me wanting more. Can't wait for the next chapter.

westwingwolf

28th August 2006, 23:13

So how is it you make me going from hating a person like Lynette, to feeling sorry for her? And from liking Claudio to thinking he's an ass? I'm very intersted in seeing how he will manage to make up for what he's done.

I love seeing Lex and Chloe being in love and teasing each other. That does make Chloe very special for being named, I wonder what that means.

So what's next?

lilinny

29th August 2006, 05:56

Very mature of lynette not to blame the Luthors. But congrats on having two years of story telling whenever I thought it would end something new comes up.

Gaia

29th August 2006, 11:16

I actually felt sorry for Lynette....
And can we someday in the future read about the actual prophecy? :D that would be really great:)

teejei

29th August 2006, 13:55

first of all, WHOA! two years, huh? achievement, really. Ü

second, good for Lynette, too, for not being petty at the Luthors. Claudio was a real royal pain for doing that, not only to the Luthors but to Lynette as well.

Lune

29th August 2006, 16:33

Great update! Darn, I thought I liked Claudio. Oh well, maybe he'll redeem himself later. Poor Lynette.

Alizaleven

29th August 2006, 21:23

Such a good update!! I enjoy each and ever update.. but this one snuck up on me lol. My computer at home is evil right now.. so I had to wait to go to work and sneak a peek at it during lunch lol hehe

stwbrrydelight

1st September 2006, 10:07

oh, to have the power to use ones body to distract another from talking...great stuff
cant wait for more...i think claudio and lynette have promise but he needs to quit acting like an ass

Lillian

2nd September 2006, 17:21

I'm sorry that you don't like this fic, Chlexy, but that is your problem so...

I like the last chapter. Claudio is a bastard. I almost fell pain for Lynette but I hope Claudio coud recover Lynette's trust.

And what about Karl? Will he be in the next charpter. I hope so.

And... Ruafair, you are making a great job.

Gemkat5

2nd September 2006, 19:38

Well, I think CHLEXY started out with constructive critism but lost it during the rambling session. I resent the implication that 'some' feel the same way....because I don't. Perhaps chlexy missed the 101 class of proper FB; if you don't have anything nice to say, then don't say it. If you don't like the story, then don't read it. "duh" in its simplest form.

Ruafair,
I think your story (ies) are a great read, even if I ashamedly don't post FB.

lazybugin

4th September 2006, 00:52

Excellent update Fiona! I'm kind of feeling bad for Linette and how Claudio used her. I'm with Lillian She should make him beg for forgiveness. LOL!
The prophecy about Lex and Chloe is pretty cool! I can't wait to see how it all plays out!
As always I look forward to future updates! :)
Robin

meg20

4th September 2006, 13:02

Great update!

I'm glad that Lillian felt for the girl and advised her to make Claudio work for forgivness and also waiting to see how Lex and Chloe are going to take the news on Linette staying in the main house!

Love how Lex loves Chloe and the part about the prophecy was brilliant and they will win this war, cause they got Chloe back!!!

Julie

4th September 2006, 13:57

Lillian, Gemkat5; Just because someone else has a different opinion than yours does not make that person's opinion BAD, or crappy feedback. NS is about being able to be honest. Sure, I can agree that her critisism perhaps was not all constructive, but it was her opinion and we have to respect that.

As for;
101 class of proper FB; if you don't have anything nice to say, then don't say it.
That's a lot of crap, if you don't mind me saying. There is no 101 of proper feedback. Feedback is feedback. The only way to truly improve is to get HONEST feedback, BUT contructive feedback. If people keep sucking up to you telling you that your work ROCKS and it's PERFECT, you won't get ANYWHERE with your skills. You'll be stuck at the same place. You'll improve faster and better with honest contructive critisism.

So, if you have something nice to say, sure! Say it! If you have something not so nice to say, still say it, BUT in a constructive way! Tell WHY you believe what you believe. WHY is *the* most important question to ask yourself and others.

So guys, think twice before you chop someone's head of for being honest!

Queen Of Tact

4th September 2006, 14:26

Mmmm theres nothing like a monday morning fix.... I can't wait for the update, and boy do i need it after my crappy weekend.......

Great job so far Fiona... I have to tell you that your the only reason i like mondays....

CC

ruafair

4th September 2006, 18:47

Hey all... Did I miss something, re: this post from Chlexy? I don't remember seeing anything. But thanks to those who said something, but Jules is right... everyone is entitled to an opinion.... Anyway on with the show... this is for Diane, and CC cause she had a bad weekend :grin3: Fiona

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

Chapter Hundred and Seventy Three – A Little R&R

Oliver stood on the wooden walkway. He watched as the various trucks entered the warehouse, deposited their cargo and then drive off again. He had gathered together an arsenal of weapons to make a world war blush.

He grimaced at the lingering ache between his eyes. Bringing his hand up he touched the wound there. Despite his healing abilities the injury inflicted on him by Lex Luthor refused to heal. Where he had been pierced an ugly red scar lingered. He had never felt anything like the pain he felt at that moment… it was like he head was going to explode.

He had replayed the moment over and over in his head, but still he could not clearly make out what he had been injured with. At the time he had been far too focussed on killing Chloe than to register what Luthor had done to him.

But whatever it was, he needed to know. If they had a weapon that could hurt him like that, then there was a very good chance that it could kill him.

Despite his vow to himself to avoid spells and magic this time around he knew finding that weapon would a more mystical approach. So for that end he had assembled a group to research daggers and such to see if they could come across something like what was used on him. Finding the weapon wasn’t a great priority, it was more him wanting to know what existed out there that could hurt him.

Sir…” a voice sounded behind him. “Sir, that was the last of the deliveries.”

“Thank you,” replied Oliver, not bothering to turn around. “Make sure everything is locked up and they clear the place of unneeded debris.”

“Yes sir,” said the other vampire and left.

A few minutes later a smile appeared on Oliver’s face as he heard the cries and screams of the humans he had employed being slaughtered. This was another vow he had made himself, humans would be used for manual work and then they would be used for food. Surrounding himself with demons and vampires would ensure a better army.

It was getting closer; he would administer his first warning strike soon… Just a little teaser to draw the Luthors out, and then the real fun would start.

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

“I don’t know Lillian, a party may not be such a good idea at the moment,” sighed Lionel, rubbing his temples.

“It’s not a party,” said Lillian, slapping his hands away from his head and placing her own there. “It’s simply a gathering of everyone here.” She massaged his temples gently. “We missed Christmas, and with everything going on it’s exactly what we need.”

“We have a petty thousand year old vampire and an ex-girlfriend of Lex’s staying here. Karl is still recovering. Lucas is covering up his worry about the war by taking his teasing to new unexplored levels, and on tip of all that I have to watch Gabe Sullivan and Annaleise making goo-goo eyes at each other…”

“Precisely why we need a party, well it won’t be a party as such,” grinned Lillian kissing his forehead. “Please darling… I won’t go to overboard. It will just be whose here and the staff… A dinner and maybe some dancing afterwards…”

“I want to see what you have planned before I okay anything,” said Lionel. Even though he knew he had lost this battle.

“Of course love,” smirked Lillian. She kissed him quickly on the lips and then headed off to find Natasha and Anna.

Lionel shook his head and chuckled to himself as she headed off

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

“Come on Lex, it will be fun,” said Lucas, his voice just reaching the begging stage.

“There are far more important things going on that having fun,” replied Lex, his eyes still fixed to the plans in front of him.

“I know that,” said a now exasperated Lucas. He had been trying to convince Lex for the last hour that *fun* was needed. “Which is why this will be fun.”

“Leading two women on is not fun.” Lex turned around and faced his brother.

“Not usually, but when those two women are the nauseating Nell Potter and Lana Lang, then it is fun,” grinned Lucas.

“Well that is true,” said Lex, failing to stop the smirk appearing on his own face.

“I know that look… Come on Lex… I need to get out of here and have fun preferably at someone else’s expense.”

Lex sighed and rolled his ok. “Ok, we’ll go. Let me just let Chloe know.”

“Excellent...” said an excited Lucas rubbing his hands together.

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

“Hey sweetie,” said Gabe entering the room. “Have you got a moment?”

“Sure dad,” said Chloe with a smile, putting her book down.

Gabe crossed the room and took the armchair opposite her. “What are you reading?” he asked indicating to the book.

“Dracula,” she said sheepishly, holding the book up. “It’s a first edition mind you. A gift from Lionel… He told me to read it cover to cover and then he’ll tell me the real story. I have no idea what he means but my curiosity is seriously piqued. I think I remember Lex at one time saying his family were linked with the story, maybe Lionel’s going to expand on that. So what can I do for you?”

Gabe ran a hand through his hair and smiled nervously at his daughter. He seemed on edge almost.

“Is everything ok?” she asked, worry evident in her voice. She had seen her dad agitated like this in a while. “Are you feeling sick? Do I need to get a doctor?”

“No, no, I’m fine. I’m just wondering how to tell you something.”

“Ok, you still have me worried. When have you and I never been able to talk to each other… and the sex talk and Lex being a vampire don’t count… they were unique circumstances,” she grinned. “So come on dad, tell me.”

“I’m in love with Anna,” he blurted out.

“Oh, is that all. Its kind of obvious dad, and not to mention embarrassing.”

“Wait? What? What do you mean obvious?” Gabe was taken aback. He wasn’t quite sure how Chloe was going to react, but this reaction was definitely not one he was expecting.

“Dad, as cringe worthy as this is for me,” she said a teasing note to her voice. “The two of you have been making goo-goo eyes at each other for ages. Plus Lex and I saw you and Anna holding hands,” and she faked a shudder at this, “only a few days ago.”

Gabe smiled at this. “Are you ok with this?”

“No, like I said the embarrassment factor at the thought of my dad dating or doing other things I really do not want to think about is really high. But more than anything in this world I want you to be happy dad; you deserve to be happy. I really like Anna, and you are good together. So if it’s my blessing that you want dad, you have it.”

Gabe got out of his seat and hugged Chloe tightly.

“You realise what this means?” asked Chloe when they parted.

“Yeah I do,” said Gabe, sitting beside her. “And like you I’m trying not to think of that… well not yet anyway.”

Chloe laughed. “Oh this is too surreal. You and I…vampires; well that’s if you’re serious about Anna.”

“Oh I am serious,” he said. “Damn I get to be your dad forever… I’ll get to see my grandchildren.”

“Wow,” gasped Chloe. “You and I together forever. That’s a pretty cool thought.”

“Yes it is sweetheart. Yes it is.”

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

It was early evening when Lex and Lucas Luthor strode into the Talon. There were only about 10 people in the small café, and Lucas grinned when he saw Lana and Nell behind the counter.

‘Don’t go overboard Lucas,’ said Lex. ‘As much as I’d love to see a cat fight… We don’t need the extra attention.’

‘Spoilsport,’ Lucas replied.

They moved to the counter. It was Nell who saw them first; Lana was the other side talking to some girl.

“Lucas,” she said, “and Lex, we haven’t seen either of you in a while. I hope things are well.”

“We’ve been busy with, family business,” grinned Lucas, leaning against the counter. “I must say Nell you are looking very well.”

“What can I get you both,” she replied, a light blush colouring her cheeks.

Lex resisted the urge to roll his eyes.

“We will have two black coffees please,” grinned Lucas, “and of course whatever you’re having.”

“We’ll be sitting over there,” said Lex, pointing to an area towards the back. “Why don’t you join us?”

Nell just nodded and watched to two men walk off. She glanced over her shoulder and saw that Lana was still engaged in her conversation. Breathing a sigh of relief Nell quickly poured three cups of coffee. Things had been a little strained between her and her niece since the night Lana came home to find her having dinner with Lucas. While he had taken his leave she had been left with trying to explain why he had been there. She managed to come up with a plausible excuse but the air around had been frosty for a while.

Placing the three cups on a small tray she checked once more to see that Lana’s attention was occupied with her friend. Then picking up the tray she headed over to the two Luthors.

“So nice of you to join us,” smiled Lucas. “Let me take that.” He took the tray from her and placed it on the table. Nell took her seat in the couch beside Lucas, while Lex sat in the armchair opposite them.

“Now isn’t this cosy,” smiled Lucas picking up his cup and leaning back in the couch, his shoulder brushing off Nell’s.

“Extremely,” said Lex with a smirk.

“Is Chloe not with you?” Nell asked Lex. “We haven’t seen her around either. And Lana says she hasn’t been at school.”

“No she is not with me,” said Lex. “She had been sick for a while, but everything is ok now. In fact she’s *better*than ever. Oh and one thing Nell, just so we have an understanding, Chloe was sick, not pregnant, or any other ailment that you may come up with as you pass the news along. It was just a bad dose of the flu, are we clear on that?”

“Perfectly clear,” replied Nell.

“Good. Now if you two will excuse me for a moment.” He nodded at Nell and shot his brother a smirk as he left the two of them alone and headed to the counter.

Nell turned to the younger Luthor. “Lucas,” she began, resting her hand on his. “I do hope Lex doesn’t think that I would spread nasty rumours about Chloe.”

“Of course he doesn’t,” said Lucas. “He is just very protective of her. And there have been some nasty things in the past.”

Nell gave him a tight smile as she sipped her coffee. Turning her attention from him she watched as Lex approached the counter.

------

“Lex,” exclaimed Lana as he leaned against the counter. “I haven’t seen you in ages.”

“We’ve had some family business to take care of,” he replied. “Ladies,” he greeted to others at the counter, smiling at them.

“Chloe not with you?” asked Lana, glancing around. “I hope everything is ok between you two.”

“Everything is just perfect. She is back at the castle, she’s worn out,” he smirked.

“That’s good to hear that you two are still together.”

Lex smiled at the barely controlled jealousy in Lana’s voice. He could see why Chloe liked to get one over on the girl. Obviously his family’s arrival in Smallville, plus his involvement with Chloe had thrown the brunette’s careful planning into disarray. From what he had heard from Chloe, Gabe and his own observations Lana Lang liked her position as number one in the town, a position encourage by her aunt. ‘Glad to fuck things up for you,’ thought Lex.

He looked over his shoulder at his brother as Lana moved away to serve a customer. He bit back a laugh as he saw Lucas and Nell sitting very close to together. He could see the glazed look on the woman’s face.

‘Don’t push too far bro,’ he said.

‘I know what I’m doing,’ Lucas replied. ‘Trust me, I’m a professional.’

‘I know, that’s what I’m afraid of.’

Lana returned as Lucas’ laughter echoed in his head.

“So are you here alone?” she asked.

“Not at all, Lucas is with me. In fact he’s over there talking with your aunt,” Lex gestured over his shoulder.

Lana peered over Lex’s shoulder and her eyes narrowed when she took in the sight. “I must see if they need a refill,” muttered Lana as she picked up the coffee pot.

‘She’s on her way bro,’ Lex told his brother. He leaned against the counter and waited for the fireworks.

------

Out of the corner of his eye Lucas saw Lana approaching. Cringing slightly he released Nell’s hand and she automatically placed it on his knee.

“You are very handsome,” whispered Nell, moving her hand.

“NELL, what are you doing?” cried Lana.

“Hey Lana, what’s up,” grinned Lucas.

“Isn’t he a little young for you,” sneered Lana, ignoring him.

“Now ladies, let’s not fight, there is plenty of me to go around…”

“Now sweetie, let’s not be nasty just because he’s not interested in you,” said Nell.

“How dare you?” spluttered Lana.

Grinning Lucas got up from the couch and slowly moved away from the two women. Whistling to himself he made his way over to a laughing Lex.

“See, told you I was a professional,” he said, as Lana and Nell’s voices grew louder.

“Let’s get home, I want to tell Chloe what happened.”

“I do love women fighting over me,” sighed Lucas, and they left the Talon. The rest of the customers stood watching the very entertaining screaming match between aunt and niece.

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

In his cave in Egypt Altair’s eyes glowed bright red… “The time is upon us Iset,” he said to the old woman before him. “We must prepare everything.”

“I will see to it immediately,” said Iset, bowing.

Kit Merlot

4th September 2006, 18:59

Caught up with this story, and I'm loving that Anna and Gabe are tgether--very sweet:D

And why am I not surprised that the Luthors had something to do with Bram Stoker's book? ;)

Oliver continues to frighten me--I now think he hates Chloe more then he ever hated the Luthors.

lj715

4th September 2006, 19:03

Great chapter!!!! I'm really nervous about Oliver & I hope he doesn't find out what Lex attacked him with. Woohoo!!!! Lucas is back to teasing Nell & Lana...I have been missing this. Glad that Lex told Chloe before he went with Lucas. I'm so happy that Gabe is in love with Anna...makes me smile. Can't wait for this get together that Lillian is organising. Lex & Chloe need to take part in more carnal activities. :D Will patiently wait until next Monday....maybe.

carebear72884

4th September 2006, 19:17

ooooooooooooh! what is altair up to now? he kind of creeps me out, I don't trust him completely.

Queen Of Tact

4th September 2006, 19:35

aww thanks hon... This made my dad all better...

I love Lucas... And I love when he causes some trouble....

Gabe and Chloe's talk was funny and cute....

Like there was any question that Lillian wasn't going to get her way and have the party....

I can't wait to read more...

CC

pipersmum

4th September 2006, 21:30

Thanks Fiona :)
Altair what is he up to now?? I just love Lucas winding up Nell and Lana :rofl:
Gabe and Chloe as vampires interesting!
The only thing now is I have to wait a week arghhhhh!!

JosiCuervo

4th September 2006, 22:10

I'm posting this because I believe everyone has a right to an opinion, and wusses just bug me. As someone who posts somewhat controversial things on a semi-regular basis, I find fault in those who don't stand by their original opinion. Be swayed when the change in opinion is earned, otherwise stick to your guns.

This isn't going to go down well with anyone but I think someone needs to try a little honesty here for a change because it's drivng me nuts.

The portrayal of Lex and Chloe in this fic is so far removed from the characters we'v come to know and love in the TV series that you might as well be writing about Tex and Zoe for all the difference it would make.

I know it's AU (duh) and I love a good AU as much as the next person (especially if you can warp it successfully into a vamp fic) but not if it means sacrificing the very essence of the characters to suit whatever purpose. Why on Earth are we reading a fic about characters we love if it DOESN'T even really feature those characters??

In this fic Chloe's maturity level seems to have regressed back to that of a 12 year old and the endearment 'love' is bandied about WAY too freely. As far as I'm aware, Chloe and Lex grew up in America and 'love' is an endearment used mainly in the UK and Australia. I can't begin to describe how out of place it is in the mouths of these characters. I'm just waiting for Spike to enter, stage left....if you'll remember, Spike is actually a London boy (or he has the accent to suit anyway), Lex and Chloe are not, so what the hell is their excuse? Being a vampire means you automatically use that particular endearment? Why, because you think it's cool, gothic and deep and meaningfull sounding? Heh. I don't think so.

And Lex? What the hell can you say about him? He's so dumbed down he's un-recognizable.

Why are you people still reading, REALLY? Is it for the next smut fix? Because if it is, you've lost me there as well. I love smut, but the sex scenes in this fic are described with about as much meaningfulness as a pork chop. Chloe is crude (and not in an erotic, sexy, titilating way), she's crude in a nasty way that isn't pretty on our girl. And on top of that the sex scenes are sloppily written to begin with, as if with no real consideration or thought (just a pump out segment for the masses to keep them turning the page so to speak).

This post obviously isn't going to be welcome but I know at least some of you (even those who feedback) are thinking the same thing.

I loved some of your earlier stuff Fi but I think you've gone off the rails here in a big fat meaningless way. Do you even know why you're writing this drivel anymore?

Ciao. I officially rescind my membership from NS. Enjoy the crap while it lasts kiddies.
And no, I'm not posting this because I'm having a bitchy moment. All my moments are bitchy. You should be used to that by now. Heh.

westwingwolf

4th September 2006, 23:06

Ok as for the controversy, I think if you're going to give your opinion, and know that it won't be well received, at least have the courage to stick around and see what an author has to say in defense. It's only fair. And leaving just because of one story? I think other reasons are behind this and someone's taking the harsh way out, imho. Chlexy gave reasons like any constructive critic would do, but those reasons weren't supported by actual evidence i.e. a particular passage to prove the point. (And why do I bother to write this, Chlexy's not here to speak up for her actions, I may be acting just a bit petty.) All that said, I may just be kissing Fiona's ass, but I do feel that these characters represent Lex and Chloe and I love this story.

Now if there is one thing I don't like in this story, it's Oliver, but without a bad guy or drama, you don't have a good story, so I'll suffer through him and wait for his excellent demise. What's more about this plan he has? Hope nobody we like gets hurt. Didn't I make a list about the people who are suppose to survive? Where did I put that list?

I'm so happy that Gabe gets to be a vampire and live forever and see his grandchildren and that better still be the plan, you said it, you can't take it away now.

And thank you for having Lucas mess some more with Lana and Nell. It's too bad that Oliver can't mistake one or both of them as a love interest for Lucas and use them as a way to hurt him. Gets rid of them and pisses off Oliver even more when he realizes it meant nothing, but perhaps I'm too harsh on them.

And what does Altair have planned now? I never know how to feel about him when he gets involved. But since he represents that whole idea of neutrality, I assume that's the point.

lj715

4th September 2006, 23:38

I had wanted to quote Chlexy's post but I can't even find it. Sanguis quid Ligurat is a story...a fic. Just like all the other fics on this site, just one person's interpretation of 2 characters & things that happen to them. Yes, 2 characters ...on a TV show. A tv show!!!! Something to read for enjoyment. Fun.....Ok.

Everyone is entitled to their own opinion, have @ it. No one is stopping you. But to get so upset seems a bit silly to me. That's my opinion. There are more important things in the world to get upset over than if "'love' is an endearment used mainly in the UK and Australia. " Huh? Whatever, I'm just gonna enjoy reading the story.

I feel that each fic is on its own anyway since the relationship doesn't even exist on the show ( hell, Chloe isn't even a canon character. I used that term the correct way didn't I?).

Sorry that chlexy felt that she had to rescind her NS membership but I'm sure she'll get over it . After all...as Scarlett says...." tomorrow is another day."

letia84

4th September 2006, 23:54

Ciao. I officially rescind my membership from NS. Enjoy the crap while it lasts kiddies.
WOW... fic pissed you off that much you left the board.

Nothing around to keep you coming back for more? Other writers? The fun and sometimes snarky commentary in Gen Chat? The Lana bashing? Come on who doesn't love a good Lana bash? The often times next to naked and or naked men in the Blue Lounge? The many wonderful Chlex artists that keep making such excllent art work and vids?

Oh well more N~S goodness for me I guess. :grin:

Back on topic, I look foward to reading this update when I get home from work Fiona as always.

Gina41283

5th September 2006, 00:16

lol i love watching Lana get angry, can't wait to see how everything w/ her turns out. ^_^ please update soon!!

lilinny

5th September 2006, 00:37

I do love Nell and Lana fighting for something that they don't have...Lucas. But when are you going to give him someone more substantial to challenge him? Good chapter.

Gaia

5th September 2006, 10:56

will we soon see some serious Oliver ass kicking:D? I do hope so....

hfce

5th September 2006, 15:12

Great chapter Fiona. I still love your fic. :D

Hope :)

katieandjason

5th September 2006, 15:32

Well, it's been a few updates since I've posted and whew! What a series this has been! Talk about a huge change-up in power!

I am very glad Chloe is back with the fam, and that the Luthors have the appearance of publicly bitchslapping Oliver, thus removing a large portion of his support system.

Gabe and Anna are adorable, as are Gabe and Byron, but in completely different ways. I always appreciate it when Gabe is given a workable plotline and good depth. He was such a likeable character in the first season.

As for the whole Claudio/Lynette situation, I'm not really sure what the big deal was. Yes, her insight was rather necessary to the Luthors, and I'm glad she was made to come b/c it forced growth on to her character, but she was an absolute idiot if she thought Claudio wasn't forcing her to come out of some urge to stick it to the Luthors. I didn't know his back story, but for him to want her to go with him was clearly a slap in the face to the Luthors. Then for her to get so upset by it, and for him to fall to his knees bemoaning his actions? I'm sorry but you lost me there. It seemed a bit too melodramatic and soap-opera-ish.

And now Oliver. Stupid, disgusting, vile Oliver, whom I love to hate. Na na nana na!!! You look stupid!!! Oh, and ah, your plan to kill everything and decimate the world? That leaves you with nothing to rule asshole! What's the point of being on earth if there are only a few humans to scare/eat and a few vamps or demons to rule? Idiot. The only smart thing Oliver has done is acknowledge his weakness and try to learn about it, but it's a little too late in the game to learn basics! *singsong voice* You're going to diiiiieeee! :D

ruafair

5th September 2006, 18:36

In regard to Chlexy’s post… Everyone is entitled to an opinion. Whether you agree or not with it that is up to you. I am sorry that you don’t like the story, and it caused you to quit but hey you can’t please everyone. I am not a professional writer, writing is something I do as a hobby and because I enjoy it, well most of the time.

In answer to some of the points made: In terms of some of my words or phrases, I am not American and I do on regular occasions forget that Irish expressions etc are not commonplace in America. And if I don’t know what the America version of a word or phrase is I will just use the one I know.

As for characters being out of character, welcome to the world of Fan Fiction. I write them out of character because TPTB on Smallville ruined what I loved about the characters originally. And this is my take on the characters. This is AU and fiction so a little creative licence on my side is my business. Also I don’t know about you but I have no idea to what the actual character of a vampire is…

If there are others who don’t like the story, fair enough, don’t read it. If I start reading something I don’t like, I stop reading it. I think it’s unfair of you to make something of those who continue to read it. Just because you and others don’t like it doesn’t mean other people can’t like it. They are entitled to enjoy the story just as much as you are entitled to not like it.

I will admit to being very upset and in some cases hurt by the comments, but I am only human.

With that said, if people do want me to continue and finish it I will. But if not I’ll stop. Either way let’s consider the matter closed. I would though like to say thank you to those who have had a say in support of the fic, I do genuinely appreciate it and you.

Love and kisses,
Fiona

habibi

5th September 2006, 21:22

I have enjoyed all the stories on N~S for a while and i rarely post a comment but Chlexy comments have basically forced me to reply.
I enjoy this story very much and all of Fiona's other stories
I think that they are beautifully written and they have a way of sucking you in to the point where you want to know what happens next and Sanguis quid Ligurat is no different.
All I have to say to Fiona is don't let one person's comments bring you down because you have many other people who are here to support you so keep doing what you do best.
Writing great stories
~Habibi~

Shy Butterfly

6th September 2006, 10:04

Please continue :puppydog: : I love this story and all your other stories so much!!!!!! :wub:

I loved the last update.

Please continue!!!! :puppydog:

:hug: Shy Butterfly

stwbrrydelight

6th September 2006, 12:56

yeah, more promise for anna and gabe...the thought of gabe being able to see his grandchildren is wonderfull...but will we ever see that day come or just enjoy the excitement of what causes grandchildren?

pipersmum

7th September 2006, 00:40

I feel I have to say something in reply to Chlexys post! Fiona has been writing this for over two years so even if you don't like it, I think that clearly states that alot of us do or we would have stopped reviewing along time ago!

I am from the UK and I speak to lj on msn and we are often comparing different words for the same thing! Fiona writes what she knows and if there was something you didn't understand, you could have asked Fiona. I have asked other authors many a times before.

Anyway Fiona you know how hooked I am on this story and don't you dare stop writing it until it is finished :D

planetcal

7th September 2006, 00:44

awww thats so cute Gabe was worried about what Chloe would think about his relationship.

This story is so amazing I look forward to reading the updates every Monday!!!!! Please continue. Can't wait for Monday to come again!!!!

jaab

8th September 2006, 21:30

Loved it :)

:respect:

angelslady

9th September 2006, 16:27

Loved this last update, fiona :) And am agreeing with Gaia, lol can't wait to see some serious oliver ass kicking :D this is truly an amazing story, i can't wait for each monday to come, for the next update, lol not posted much this week, as i have been away, so i have some serious catching up to do now :)

Lillian

9th September 2006, 22:02

A good chapter. I like see Lana angry. The Luthor brother are a pair of naughty boys.

ruafair

11th September 2006, 18:26

Right.... back to the plot..... Things start heating up now for the final push.... :eek: .... Fiona

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Chapter Hundred and Seventy Three – A Little R&R

It was the light breeze that woke her up. The silken curtains fluttered slightly as she sat up in the bed. The sheet covering her fell to her waist, baring her upper body to the night.

She called his name softly as she rose from the bed. Naked, she moved to the window and looked out over the palace. Lit torches illuminated the courtyard below; she could make out the shapes of the guards watching over the household. The desert shimmered in the moonlight and the smell of incense and sand invaded her senses.

“Giving the guards a view,” he whispered behind her, hands wrapping around her waist.

“I was looking for you,” she replied, leaning back into his embrace.

A low rumbling sound echoed in the direction of the mountains, and the breeze grew stronger. “He is getting closer,” he murmured, sliding his hands up her body. “Soon his great army will be upon us.”

She turned in his arms, pressing her naked body to his. “We’ll be ready… we will not allow him to destroy all we have built.” She kissed him softly.

“In the shades of the great temple at Karnak we will smite our enemy down, victory will be ours…”

“Of course it will my love, it has been written,” she smiled…

------

…Chloe woke up breathing hard. “Ok, freaky dream,” she said a moment later. Getting up from the bed she put a robe on. Tying the belt around her waist she left her bedroom and headed down the hall.

The dream had been so real… she could feel the breeze on her face, and the sensation of Lex’s arms around her. Even now the scent of the desert still filled her senses. “It’s too much to be a coincidence,” she muttered as she drew closer to the room.

She could hear Lucas and Lex laughing and really didn’t want to spoil their fun. But she needed to tell Lex about the dream.

“Chloe, what has you up?” asked Lex as soon as she entered the room. “What’s wrong?” he added as he sensed her uneasiness.

“Sorry to interrupt,” she said, “I had this dream…”

“Was I in it?” piped up Lucas.

“Lucas,” warned Lex.

“And with everything that has been going on it’s was too freaky to ignore,” continued Chloe, paying no attention to Lucas.

“Ok, tell me about it,” said Lex, taking her hand.

“It had a feeling of being a long time ago… it was night time. I woke and walked to a window that looked out over a courtyard,” Chloe closed her eyes. There was a desert in the distance and I seemed to be in a palace of some sort, well it *felt* like I was. It was so real; I could feel the breeze and smell the sand. You came in then Lex and wrapped your arms around me. You talked about his army being ready. And then you said ‘In the shades of the great temple at Karnak we will smite our enemy down, victory will be ours…’ Then I said of course it would, it has been written… I woke up after that.” She opened her eyes and stared at Lex.

“Whoa, freaky or what,” commented Lucas.

“Karnak,” whispered Lex. “You are positive about that?”

Chloe nodded. “That’s where we have to go, isn’t it?”

“The final battle will be there,” said Lex. “Lucas, get the others.”

There was no quip from Lucas he immediately jumped from his seat. He gave Chloe’s shoulder a squeeze as he passed her and headed out of the room to assemble the rest.

Lex pulled Chloe into a hug and held her close.

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

Oliver sank to his knees, clutching his head. The pain was incredible. His fangs appeared and he sank them into his bottom lip to prevent himself from crying out in pain. His demon form came forth, the pain driving it out.

“What the fuck is going,” he said through gritted teeth. Gasping he struggled to his feet and dragged himself over to a chair on the corner of the room. Sinking into it, ignoring the additional pain of his wings being crushed he grasped his head again. The pain was increasing and it seemed to centre on the mark that had been left by Lex Luthor.

Growling Oliver tried to ride through the agony. He was grateful there was none of his minions around to see him like this. The only reason they obeyed him was because there were afraid of him. Seeing him crumpled in agony would not do his reputation any good.

The pain lessened somewhat… enough for Oliver to bring his human form back out. He leaned back in the chair, rubbing his fingers over his temples. The throb of pain faded slightly, but he was certain it would linger for another while.

“This is not good,” he murmured. These *bouts* of incapacitating pain had been getting more and more frequent over the last week. He closed his eyes as the last of the pain dissipated and remained still for a few moments.

When he was certain everything was ok with him again Oliver stood up and headed back to the plans he had been studying.

Just as he reached the desk and blinding flash of pain hit him again. He fell to the floor, holding his head as he rolled around.

Images assailed him… Pyramids. The desert. A battle fought centuries ago. This *attack* lasted for a few minutes. Then the pain and images were gone as quickly as they had appeared.

Oliver lay panting on the ground. “What the hell is going on? What was all that about?” Within him his demon raged it didn’t know what all this meant either. All it knew that there was something brewing, and that it was big.

“I do not have time for all this,” he said getting to his feet. “I have the destruction of the Luthors to plan… And no pain or freaky images are going to stop me.”

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

Despite being slightly miffed at been dragged from her party arrangements, Lillian was glad that Chloe had shared her dream.

A firm believer in the use of dreams in prophecies Lillian took down every detail that Chloe could remember. She even made her tell them the details at least five times before Lex put a stop to it.

“Mother, Chloe is exhausted. I’m taking her back to bed. You can interrogate her again in the morning.”

“It’s ok Lex,” said Chloe. “Lillian, I know you want to know all the details but I have told you everything. I am tired, maybe in the morning I will have remembered something else.”

“I am sorry Chloe,” replied Lillian, taking the younger woman’s hands. “I do forget you’re not one of us yet and that you need your sleep. We’ll talk in the morning when you are refreshed.” She kissed Chloe’s forehead and squeezed her hands.

Giving everyone a tired smile Chloe left the room with Lex.

Byron stood up, “I’ll check the books, see if there is any mention of dreams.”

“Thank you Byron,” said Lionel. “Why don’t you ask Lynette to help you?”

All eyes turned to Lionel while the woman in question sank further into the corner she had put herself in.

“Splendid idea Lionel,” grinned the Englishman. “Come along my dear, my usual lovely assistant is still nursing her boyfriend. But I think you’ll be a more than adequate substitute.” He smiled at the dark-haired woman. And giving him a shy smile in return she followed him out of the room. She nodded at Lionel as she left.

‘Thank you darling,’ Lillian said.

‘Well it was partly a selfish move,’ he replied. ‘Claudio will be pissed.’

Lillian bit back a smile. ‘Now, now darling, let us not be petty.’

“We should probably tell Claudio about this,” said Sergi. “Would you like me to?”

“Please Sergi if you would,” said Lionel.

“Should I tell him about Byron’s new assistant,” added Sergi with a smirk.

“I’ll leave that decision up to you,” grinned Lionel.

“I think we’re missing something,” Lucas murmured to Christine.

“I think you’re right,” she replied.

“Are we finished here?” asked Natasha. “Because Lillian, Anna and I have dinner party arrangements to finalise.”

“That we do,” said Lillian. “I’ll talk to Chloe again in the morning.” She kissed Lionel’s cheek and she and the others left the room.

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

“Are you ok?” Lex asked Chloe as she slipped off her robe and got back into their bed.

“I’m fine…” she replied. “Just tired. The dream didn’t scare me or upset me, it was just weird and kind of freaky.”

Lex smiled and after removing his own clothes slipped into the bed beside her.

Chloe sighed as she rested her head on his chest and Lex wrapped his arms around her.

“You shouldn’t have snapped at your mom,” she said.

“I didn’t snap…” Chloe lifted her head and gave him a pointed look. “Ok, I may have snapped a little,” he continued. “But she was interrogating you.”

“Yes she was a little heavy handed with the questioning but she didn’t mean it. She just wants to know what is going on and if it will help us.”

“I know that,” sighed Lex. “But you know me, protective of you, even against my own parents.”

Chloe laughed and laid her head down again.

“It was so real Lex,” she continued. “I have never had a dream like that… even my more erotic ones of you when we first got together where not *that* realistic.” She let out a big yawn as she finished talking.

“Well I’m assuming there is no need for *those* dreams anymore, now that you have the real thing,” said a smug Lex.

Chloe laughed sleepily, and snuggled closer. “Definitely not,” she murmured. The real thing is so much better. No need for dreams,” she yawned loudly again. “And no need for freaky desert dreams either…” she trailed off.

Lex smiled and kissed her forehead. “Sleep Chlo.”

------

He stood in the shadows and watched as she finished her evening prayer to the Goddess. Naked except for gold anklets and bracelets she moved with grace as she lit the last of the incense.

She bowed her head at the marble statue of the goddess as she finished.

“I know you’re there,” she whispered, turning around.

Laughing he stepped out, divesting himself of his own clothes. Moving to her he rested his hands on her hips.

“I think the goddess would be pleased if we consummated our love before her,” she whispered, running her hand up and down his chest.

“I couldn't agree more,” he captured her mouth and lowered them both to the ground. The flames flickered casting shadows of their entwined bodies onto the painted walls.

The sounds of the desert faded as their moans grew. Bodies moved as one under the gaze of the goddess Hathor.

Faster and harder he drove into her, the heat building between them. He threw his head back and let himself go as he felt her come apart beneath him…

------

…Lex cried out Chloe’s name as he came inside her body.

Looking down he saw her beneath him, clutching as she rode out her own climax.

Breathing hard her eyes flew open…. “Lex…what…what…is going on? You, I…Egypt.”

He rolled off her and pulled her close.

“I had the same dream. Then we wake up and we’re making love,” he said, his body still humming. “What is going on?”

Chloe didn’t reply, just tried to control her breathing as she held him close.

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

With a gasp Iset pulled herself from here trance.

“Are you all right my dear?” asked a concerned Altair.

The elderly woman held up her hand as she breathed deeply. “I… I am ok,” she said after moment. “I’m not as young as I use to be. It just takes a lot more out of me than previously.”

“We can use someone else Iset. You don’t have to do this.”

“Yes I do my lord,” she replied, gingerly lowering herself into her seat. “I know my time is almost over. And in fact I’m ready to breathe my last. But before I do I want to ensure that the demon that inhabits Oliver’s body does not win. I want to be able to hand over my duties to my great-great granddaughter with the full knowledge that the vampire and human world will continue to live in almost harmony. I need to do this. I have served you well Altair, please, let me do this?”

“I would just like to see you shrug off your mortal coil somewhat naturally,” said Altair. “Not, drive yourself into a coma by pushing yourself too hard. But, as you have said you have served me very well and if this is what you want I will not stop you.”

“Thank you my lord,” she said with smile.

“Doesn’t mean I have to like it though,” he added, he red eyes glowing slightly.

Despite being thousands of years old Altair could be such a child sometimes, and it brought a sense of belonging to Iset. Thanks to him she had lived over 150 years old, lived to see her gift reborn in her great-great granddaughter Tuyla. And she would enter the heavens happy knowing Altair was still around to guide her.

“It’s not Luthor or his mate that cause the pain,” she said. “If anything I draw strength from them, especially the girl. She is very receptive. She will make a very powerful vampire when the time comes.”

“Oh Chloe Sullivan’s future is a very impressive one,” said Altair. “Providing things turn out ok.”

“Well I think she and Lex and the others will succeed, I can sense the power from the mated pair. Plus there are accepting the visions and dreams, it won’t be long before the make their way here.”

“But Oliver…” said Altair.

“He is the problem. He causes the pain; I have to use more energy in sending visions to him. That is a very powerful demon he is hosting, but one that does not believe in the power of magic. Brute force and pain is what drives him. Planting the visions requires an inordinate amount of power.”

“Hence why I suggested someone else do it.”

“I will see this through,” said Iset definitely.

“Of that I have no doubt Iset,” said Altair. “But that is enough for tonight. Get some rest and recoup your strength. Oliver will require another vision tomorrow and you will need to be fully recharged for that.”

“Yes my lord,” said the old woman bowing slightly.

Altair watched with a concerned smile as she slowly moved off to the room he had set up for her. “Your time here is almost at an end my dear friend… And I will do everything to make sure you rest in peace.”

Dark Topaz

11th September 2006, 18:56

yay oliver in pain couldn't happen to a nicer being. It was also intresting seeing a nicer side of Altair.

lj715

11th September 2006, 19:07

Great update!!!!!! Very interseting dreams Lex& Chloe are having about Egypt. Like the idea of Altair taking care of Iset. Can't wait to read what happens next!

GivenToFly

11th September 2006, 19:18

Great chapter. Interesting twist with the dream. Can't wait to see what's in store for Chloe and Lex.

SianUrsula

11th September 2006, 19:57

Yeah!! They're going to beat the crap out of Oliver! Fabulous update, love how Lex and Chloe are part of something larger than life...

pipersmum

11th September 2006, 20:10

Great update Fiona :D So the plot thickens I loved Chloe having dreams about her past life. So she has been with Lex before, soul mates destined to find each other;) I hope we get to find more out about the past.

westwingwolf

11th September 2006, 21:00

Oh Oliver is hurt, I feel so bad for him. Yeah right, bring on the pain. And not paying attention to visions might just hurt him. But why are they sending them to him unless they want to set him up.

I think I can finally see where Lucas gets this teasing, playful side. Lionel loves to mess with Claudio, and it's so funny when he does.

So these dreams are getting pretty hot and heavy. I have to say that seems like an excellent way to wake up from a dream. I'd hate to have that dream and then find out it wasn't real.

Great Update.

katieandjason

11th September 2006, 22:51

Holy canoli Batman! What an incredible layer you just added in that post. Lex and Chloe being a sort of parallel for Altair and some long-dead human? That's pretty wicked.

I also adore the images you created of Chloe and Lex in Egypt... very warm, sensual, and beautiful. It always makes me so sad to come to the end of an update. :(

Gaia

11th September 2006, 23:56

Altair cares for someone? One would figure..Chlex written even in the past life:D

letia84

12th September 2006, 03:34

I the idea of the dreams and Lex and Chloe having a passed life together. They found each other again even though this time it was in small town Smallville.

I love this idea of Oliver in pain. Oh I hope more is coming to him. :devil:

Altair has a sofa side, that's kind of sweet.

I think I can finally see where Lucas gets this teasing, playful side. Lionel loves to mess with Claudio, and it's so funny when he does.
I totally agree with this point. Lionel passed it own.

Great update, plot thickens and I can't wait for more.

PS Not a bad way to wake up in the middle of an orgams. :yeahbaby:

Cassandra Jean

12th September 2006, 04:55

This was an awesome update. I am loving this story more and more with each new chapter.

Can not wait to see what happens next. Keep up the great work.

xiaoyouangel

12th September 2006, 06:26

nice update...keep it coming..

sarah_7174

12th September 2006, 11:18

great update and look forward to more, i'll be curious if they tell lex's mum everything of that dream!!! Cant wait to see what you are going to do with chloe and lex next

update soon

carebear72884

12th September 2006, 20:59

yay! I love this fic so much, I can't wait for more. I want to know what happens! more soon

lilinny

13th September 2006, 00:24

This Tuyla, is that supposed to be Chloe? Fantastic chapter. Soon, Oliver will be destroyed. I can't wait!!!

Queen Of Tact

13th September 2006, 14:24

This update was just what I needed after my crappy last couple of weeks...

great update hon... Like everyone else I loved to see Oliver in pain, and would gladly see him in more pain...

Love the dreams... I'm sure Chloe and Lex will figure everything out...

As for Lionel...LMAO I guess you just can't take the boy out of a master vampire...

I also liked seeing another side of Altair...

I can't wait to read more...

*hugs*

CC

Alizaleven

14th September 2006, 17:39

Oh my goodness!!! What a wonderful update!! I enjoyed it soo much, the plot is thinkening EVEN more!!! and its amazing, I can't wait to see what happens next :D update soon please

carolannw5

16th September 2006, 05:24

Another Awesome Update!

Love this story!

This is one of the best Chlex stories I have read on NS.

Keep up the great writing. You do a fantastic job.

:respect:

Lillian

16th September 2006, 21:35

What can I say? Magic, past lifes, Egypt... absolutly brilliant!!!!

stwbrrydelight

17th September 2006, 09:27

wow, i really loved the dreams...heck can i wake from a dream like they did

ruafair

18th September 2006, 12:13

Ok, early update today... I'm way too hungover to say anything else LOL.... Fiona :coffee:

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Chapter Hundred and Seventy Five – Breadcrumbs & Fluff

A fully demonised Oliver threw his head back and roared. That action only caused the pain in his head to increase and he sank to his knees. His wings flapped in agitation. During a second reprieve from the pain Oliver thanked his luck that he had this special room designed for him. It was big enough to hold him comfortably in full demon mode, plus it had a specifically designed roof so he could fly out of it.

He screamed in pain again. And thankfully it was sound proofed. If the minions down stairs could here him screaming in pain like this he would lose his very cheap and extremely expendable army.

“Make it stop… make it stop,” he growled, the pain blinding. Images and sounds and scents filled his senses. There were sand dunes, searing sun, a woman’s laughter, chariots, and a battle, the screaming of the wounded and the overpowering scent of blood.

He howled in agony, his eyes glowing redder and redder… “Please,” he croaked, not even caring about the begging tone in his voice. “Please stop…”

As if on cure the pain stopped and he slumped to the ground, breathing hard. The scent of blood filled the room, the scent of his blood.

Bringing his hands to his face he felt the moisture seep from his eyes. Rubbing his fingers over his left eye and drew his hand away. Blood stained his fingers, blood that was flowing from his eyes. “What is going on? What the fuck is going on?”

------

Iset collapsed to the ground… unconscious.

Altair swore under his breath as he crossed the room to pick the old woman up. He carried her gently to her room and laid her on the bed.

“I knew this would be too much for you,” he said as he covered her with a blanket. “But no, you have to be stubborn. He is too powerful, you are killing yourself sending him visions.” He spoke softly to her unmoving body. He stood over her a few more minutes. When he was satisfied she was getting the sleep she so desperately needed he left the room and headed back to his throne room.

While yes he knew Iset’s time in this world was coming to an end, he did not want her to die as a result of pushing herself to far for him. He would talk to her tomorrow about directing her visions to Luthor and his mate. Chloe seemed to be very receptive to the visions and accepted them. If they fed her and Lex the right clues they would lead Oliver to where the battle would take place.

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

It had been the same for the last few nights… When Chloe fell asleep she was immediately whisked into the *visions*, as Lillian called them.

The morning after their first shared dream, Lex and Chloe had spoke to Lionel and Lillian. They had described everything, even the part about them making love. The continuing Egyptian them that ran though Chloe’s first dream, and they subsequent shared dream had Lionel automatically think of Altair.

“It screams of something he would do,” he had said. “Plus, the dreams are not threatening, if anything they seem to be giving you both clues.”

At Lillian’s suggestion Chloe and Lex wrote down everything they remembered from their dreams… both the separate and shared ones. They left nothing out, even the descriptions of them making love in their dreams and waking up to find themselves in the same position.

She had also told Chloe to not fight them. If what Lionel said was true, and that Altair was behind them, she would be in no danger from them. While Lex was a little more reluctant, his protective streak for his mate showing through, Chloe agreed with Lillian.

So when the now familiar scent of the desert hit her nose Chloe let herself go, immersing herself into the dream. It was a weird sensation, it was almost like she was standing outside herself and watching what was going on. But everything felt so real. Especially when Lex joined her in the dream, because things usually escalated from there and they ended up having sex.

It was during the dreams where she was alone that Chloe paid the most attention to her surroundings. The journalist in her focussed on everything around her. How the room she was in was decorated, the sounds and scents around her. And after every dream she wrote down everything that she remembered.

Chloe was beginning to think like Lillian, these dreams were signs and clues. And she wondered if Oliver was being affected as well.

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

“I need to stretch my legs my dear,” said Byron. “I also want to check on Karl and Elena. He’s still only getting his strength back, and young Elena has a habit of exhausting him.”

Lynette smiled at him. “I’ll get the rest of the books on your list while you’re gone.”

“Splendid, then we can go through them. I’ll grab Lucas and a couple of others on my way back. They can help out.” He smiled at her and left the vast library.

Lynette shook her head and returned her attention to the shelves of books. She had no idea why Byron had suggested that *she* be the one to help him, but she was grateful to him. He didn’t treat her any different. During her time working with him she had found out about his friendship with the Luthor family. She had asked him had he never considered being turned and he said no. He’d had an amazing life and wouldn’t change a minute of it for anything, but when his time came to an end he would take it and accept his mortality.

‘But,’ as he had said with a twinkle in his eye, ‘there is still a number of years left in me.’

Lynette smiled as she remembered their conversation. But that smile faded as her thoughts turned to Claudio. They hadn’t spoken since that night in the guesthouse and she missed him deeply. She had stopped herself on more than one occasion from going to him.

‘He should be the one to apologise,’ she told herself when the urge to see him gripped her. ‘Not you.’ But so far the older vampire had made no move to speak to her. She had been screwed over by enough men and vampires all her life. She usually picked herself and walked away, promising herself it would never happen again. But without fail she’d meet someone else who would sweep her off her feet, promise her the moon and stars and then just when she thought this could be the *one* he’d dump her.

She had really, really thought that Claudio was different. Up until they had arrived at Smallville he had been so different to every other man she had met. But then it all came out that night Lionel and Lillian Luthor went to see them. Claudio’s petty need to get one up on Lionel came to the surface and she was left feeling like an idiot.

“Enough of that,” she murmured to herself as she pulled a book from the shelf. “I have work to do.”

“And you’re doing a fine job,” a voice sounded behind her.

Lynette stiffened but kept her back to him as she looked though more titles. “Is there something that you wanted?” she asked, proud that her voice sounded strong.

“Part of their little group now are you?” asked Claudio, leaning against Byron’s desk.

“More than you are,” replied Lynette, turning to face him.

“Touché,” he said with a smile.

“Like I said, is there something that you want?” she asked again as she walked over and placed the book on the table.

“I want a lot of things Lynette,” he said pushing himself off the desk. “But at this very moment what I want is…” he drew closer to her and watched as she fought the urge to step back from him.

“Is what?” she asked.

“Is to tell you how incredibly sorry I am,” he said.

Lynette’s eyes flew to his. Of all the things to say this was the last thing she thought he would utter.

“What I did was inexcusable,” he continued. “But you have to believe when I say I never wanted you to get hurt. Yes it was a need to piss Lionel off that drove my decision for us to go to Smallville, but hurting you was the furthest thing from my mind. I know it has taken me a while to come to you, but I just couldn’t find the right words to say.”

“Sorry would have been enough,” said Lynette softly. “You really hurt me Claudio. I know I should be use to men using me, but I really thought you were different. Granted it’s probably what I deserve.”

Claudio said nothing. No matter what way you looked at it, he did use her. While it wasn’t in the same way as other men have used her, he still betrayed her trust in him.

“I don’t know what to say to make it better between us,” he said.

“Promise me you’ll never do it again,” she said a hint of sadness to her voice.

“*That* I can promise,” he said, his voice sincere. “I mean it Lynette, I will never do anything like that again to you. Please say you believe me.”

“I want to believe you,” she whispered.

“I can spend the next 100 years at your beck and call, would that help?” he offered with a hint of a smile.

Despite herself Lynette could not prevent the smile that appeared on her lips. “It might do for starters.”

“I am truly sorry Lynette,” he said, taking her hand.

She gave his fingers a quick squeeze before drawing her hand away. “Well seeing as you’re here you can help me get the rest of the books.”

Claudio smiled. “I’d be delighted too.”

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

“What do you think of these dreams Chloe and Lex have been having?” asked Elena. She lifted her head from its resting position on Karl’s chest to look at him.

“I don’t know. But from listening to Lillian and Lionel it seems like they believe the dreams are a good thing.”

Elena nodded. “Chloe doesn’t seem as freaked out by them as she was at the beginning.”

“MMM,” said Karl, tracing her cheek with his finger.

They were in their room, lying on the bed. Karl’s strength was almost back to 100%. They had been just lying there watching TV and talking.

“Lucas says the final battle is almost upon us.”

Karl cupped her chin and drew her towards him. He kissed her slowly and softly. “We will survive,” he whispered when they parted.

“We better,” she replied. “I have better things to be doing with my time than nurse you back to health.”

Karl chuckled softly and pulled her into another kiss. “I would have never made it without you,” he said when they parted again. “In the darkness it was your voice, your presence that called me back.”

He cupped her face between his hands and pulled her closer to him. He kissed her forehead and then her closed eyes. They flew open as he placed a kiss on each cheek. “I love you so much Elena,” he said softly. “I’ve loved you from the first moment I saw you.”

Elena blinked back tears. “I would have walked into the sun had you not survived,” she said. “Much as I adore being here, and my friendship with the others and especially Chloe I could not have gone on without you.”

The tears now fell from her eyes and Karl gently brushed them away with his thumbs. He smiled and bought their mouths together once more. Holding her close as they kissed he turned them in the bed so that she was lying beneath him.

Elena’s arms wrapped around his neck as Karl deepened the kiss and she shifted her legs so that he lay between them.

Breaking the kiss he looked down at her and she smiled lazily back at him. She was definitely the one for him, and while yes it was still far too early to begin thinking of her as his mate Karl knew there would be no one else.

“I’ll take you to see the world when all this is over,” he said, brushing her hair back from her eyes. “Just the two of us. We’ll go to all the places *you* have ever wanted to visit.”

“That would be perfect,” she said. “Especially the part about just the two of us.”

His green eyes sparkled and he kissed her again, harder this time as their tongues entwined.

“I love you,” she breathed as his lips moved over her throat.

“We will survive this Elena,” he murmured against her skin.

“We better,” she groaned as his hand cupped her breast, squeezing it gently. And she drew his mouth back to hers, setting about forgetting about the war for a while.

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

“Hey wait,” Chloe cried out, “don’t run off.” She followed the figure around the corner.

Chloe had just been dozing in front of the television with Lex when the dream hit her. The conscious part of her mind was glad that Lex wasn’t in this one. If this dream followed the pattern of the others they would end up having sex. Normally that didn’t bother her, but when they were in a room that had Nikolas, Christine and their daughter, Chloe didn’t want to be responsible for corrupting the baby.

Once she was in what looked like a temple, only this time she was wearing clothes. Well if what looked like a linen wrap that barely covered anything could be classed as clothes. When she *arrived* at the temple a figure beckoned to her from the shadows. But when Chloe approached them they took off.

“I haven’t really got time for hide and seek,” she called out as she entered a courtyard. Flaming torches and a bright moon illuminated the area in a mixture of silver and gold.

“How very nice to meet you Chloe Sullivan,” a voice said in the shadows.

“I’d like to extend the same courtesy to you,” replied Chloe. “If you’d make an appearance,” she added in a mumble.

Out of the shadows stepped an old woman… a very old woman.

“Em hello,” said Chloe.

“Hello Chloe,” she said in a heavily accented voice.

“Ok you know my name, what’s yours?”

“I will tell you in a moment. First let me get a good look at you.” She shuffled forward and scrutinised her. After a moment she met Chloe’s eyes and smiled. “I hope I get to meet you in the real world,” she said.

“What is going on?” asked Chloe, clearly exasperated.

“Chloe Sullivan, my name is Iset and my strength is failing. I will not be able to send you any more dreams after this one. You must get Oliver to the ruins at Karnak. On the ground there you will have a chance. But please note that his demon will not want to go there, it will sense danger. But you have to get him there… you will not succeed if the battle takes place anywhere else.”

She began to fade.

“Hey no wait… you can not leave if like that. I need more,” Chloe cried out.

“Remember Chloe, the ruins at Karnak…” Iset faded completely.

------

Chloe woke up with a scream of ‘come back.’

Lex and the others were hovered over her. “Are you all right Chloe?” asked a concerned Lex.

Chloe nodded. “Get the others, now…”

lj715

18th September 2006, 13:28

Omg, great chapter. The kids are eating breakfast so I read this. Happy that Karl is going to be alright & that he realizes that Elena is the only one for him. Also glad that Claudio apologized to Lynette. I know they love each other. So now Chloe & Lex are going to be responsible for getting Oliver to Karnak. Can't wait for more as always.

Kit Merlot

18th September 2006, 13:52

Excellent work, Fi!

I have to say that Lynette and Claudio are fast becoming favorites of mine--they are two people who have made tons of mistakes, but they are trying to do the right thing. I like it:D

And Chloe's visions are quite fascinating--continued great work on this fic.

pipersmum

18th September 2006, 16:35

Great update fiona its all falling into place now and I feel the battle is not far away fingers crossed they can get Oliver to Karnak :D

So glad Karl has his strength back almost!

Looking forward to more next week.

sarah_7174

18th September 2006, 17:54

Great Update once again, update soon

westwingwolf

18th September 2006, 18:58

Oliver is pathetic. Claudio is making up for his assholish ways. Karl and Elena are well and in love and better stay that way. I would have love to see the conversation between Chlex and the parents explaining how the last dream ended but oh well. Knowing that they know is enough. Nice to know Altair has a heart. And let's get going to Karnak, because a certain annoying demon needs to get his assed kicked.

katieandjason

18th September 2006, 20:13

Hung over, eh? Got drunk last night, didya? Atta girl! :D

Well, this update posed a challenge for Chloe... how on earth to get that big, dumb, hot-tempered idiot to a place he's not going to want to go? And by big, dumb, hot-tempered idiot I mean Oliver. Actually, just taunting the guy enough might be sufficient. Get that temper going and he'll be like a dog to a bone.

Very nice plot-driven chapter. Sex abounds without slowing down the story, it's very nice. :D

slayer44

19th September 2006, 00:31

Amazing update! Those dreams of Chloe's have been really hot :) I was hoping to hear a bit more about Iset though. I always knew that Oliver wasn't going to be able to stand a chance against the Luthors, and am looking foward to his demise.

lilinny

19th September 2006, 00:52

What a sweet chapter. Karl and Elena are so cute together. I can't wait for the coming battle. Next week can't come soon enough!!

sarahnicole

19th September 2006, 04:05

Thanks so much for another update! I live through Mondays just for them!

Sarah

Lune

19th September 2006, 05:43

LMAO @ the thought of Chloe corrupting the baby because of a dream. That imho is a very Chloesque thought. ^.^

Can't wait for more.

planetcal

19th September 2006, 06:38

I love your Monday updates! I can't for the battle with Oliver. I hope they can get him to go to Karnak. Chloe's visions are great. Just thinking about Chloe corrupting the baby due to her dreams made me crack up. Amazing update as always. Can't wait for next Monday!!!!!!

Alizaleven

19th September 2006, 08:59

Oh my gosh!!! Wonderful update :D I loved it can't wait for more

stwbrrydelight

20th September 2006, 09:06

strong stuff...not only do we get to hear an apology from a very old vampire, but we also see budding romance...oh yes dont forget the dreams....

teb85

21st September 2006, 20:20

Fantastic updates Fiona as usual! I love it now things are beginning to build up for the battle and I can't wait for more !!

Lillian

24th September 2006, 18:07

Great chapter. I like see that Karl is fine and he's in love Elena.
The grea battle is coming. I can't wait the new update. Only one day more.

meg20

25th September 2006, 13:29

Loved the updates!!!

Happy that Chloe is resceptive to the dreams and can't even imagine what they have to come up to get Oliver in Egipt.

Loved the juicy bit about Lucas teasing Nell and Lex helping him to get Nell and Lana fighting.

It's good that Claudio got his crap together and tried to make up with Lynett, hope he stays to help the Luthors out. :)

ruafair

25th September 2006, 18:55

Hello all... just dropping by to post... Hope you enjoy it..... Fiona

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

Chapter Hundred and Seventy Six – A Final Sight
Chloe took a deep breath and allowed her eyes to trail over everyone in the room. The Romanovs, her dad, Anna, the Luthors, Karl and Elena were all seated around waiting for her to speak.

Byron, along with Lynette and an apparent back in favour Claudio where still working in the library. Lillian told Byron she would fill him in later.

“Would you like a few more minutes sweetheart?” asked Gabe, watching the emotions flit across Chloe’s face.

“No, no I’m ok, just trying to get things right in my head,” she replied with a smile.

“Take your time Chlo,” said Lex, squeezing her hand gently.

“Ok… I think it will be better if you let me just tell you exactly what happened and then we can start dissecting it.”

“I think she means no interrupting, especially from you mom,” grinned Lucas.

“Lillian, I did not…” Chloe began.

“I know you didn’t my dear,” said Lillian, smiling at her. “My son just has a very inappropriate sense of humour,” she glared at Lucas.

‘I’ll deal with you later,’ was the silent message she sent him.

“Sorry mom,” said a very sheepish Lucas, looking down at the ground.

“It was the same desert and ancient feel,” began Chloe, deciding to start now and prevent a *Luthor* family dispute. “I was in a temple, wearing this linen wrap thing. It was late evening, and torches lit the room. I saw this movement in the shadows, someone beckoning to me, and thought it was Lex, seeing as how he has been sharing my dreams,” she smiled at him.

“I followed the figure into a courtyard and they spoke to me, again from the shadows. It was a woman’s voice as she said she was happy to meet me. A few minutes later she stepped into the light. It was a *very* old woman and she kind of looked me up and down. Then she said her name was Iset and she had something important to tell me.”

“ISET,” exclaimed Sergi and Lionel at the same time.

“So, Altair is behind this,” added Lionel. “Sorry Chloe, please continue my dear…”

“She said her strength was failing and that this would be the last dream she sent me. I didn’t have time to ask any questions she just continued on. She said we had to get Oliver to the ruins at Karnak. On the ground at Karnak we would have a chance of winning. Anywhere else and Oliver would be victorious. She also warned me that Oliver’s demon would fight to go there, it would sense that it would be dangerous to him. But we have to get Oliver there. Before I could ask for more she kind of faded away and then I woke up…”

“Altair was helping us,” said Lex. “In his own, ‘I’m still following the karma rules’ kind of way.”

“Do you think dreams where sent to Oliver?” asked Natasha.

“I think they were,” said Anna. “But I think Oliver’s demon fought them, maybe it had something to do with the danger he sensed in Karnak as Iset said. So I think Altair stepped up his *help* and instructed Iset to send that final dream to Chloe telling her exactly what had to be done.”

“Do you think this Altair will help in the final battle?” asked Gabe. “I mean, isn’t his lair around that same area as well.”

“Yes it is,” replied Sergi. “But I don't know if he can get involved on a such a level as helping us. Lionel and I were subjected to quite a test for him to tell us anything.”

“And my meeting with him was all freaky visions and cryptic messages,” added Lex. “Altair did tell me that even he had rules to follow.”

“He’s probably stretching the rules already to assist us,” said Karl.

“So, without meaning to state the obvious,” said Lucas. “How do we get what is going to be a very reluctant Oliver to Karnak?”

“With great difficulty,” quipped Elena, earning her a grin from Lucas.

“That’s an understatement,” said Nikolas.

“Other than clubbing him over the head and kidnapping him I don’t know what we can do,” joked Chloe.

“That’s not a bad idea,” murmured Lionel.

All eyes turned to him.

“I was only joking Lionel,” said Chloe.

“I’m guessing we are not going to be able to lure him to Karnak even if we use Chloe and Lex as bait. If his demon senses danger it won’t go. So we have to force him there.”

“Again I’ll ask the obvious,” said Lucas. “How?”

“Magic,” announced Byron appearing at the door.

All heads turned to him.

“Apologies for eavesdropping but I didn’t want to interrupt Chloe or everyone else while they commented.” He shuffled into the room and Elena and Karl stood up to let him sit down.

“Thank you,” he smiled at them. “I heard everything,” he continued looking around the room. “And I agree with Lionel, force is the only way you will get Oliver to Karnak. And the way to do that is through magic.”

“What? We’re going to make him disappear from wherever his is and make him materialise in Egypt?” said Natasha. “That’s going to require some very powerful magic. Plus someone is going to have to be literally standing in front of Oliver to cast the spell.”

“Yes it will need to be powerful and yes someone will have to be there,” said Byron. “But we have another ace up our sleeve, someone that is a mystery to Oliver.”

“Clark,” exclaimed Chloe. “You’re talking about Clark aren’t you?”

Byron nodded.

“Oliver was very confused about what he sensed from Clark when we went to rescue Chloe,” said Lex. “And because he was more interested in getting Chloe away from us didn’t really give Clark much attention.”

“Do you think Kent will help?” asked Lucas. “He’s kind of *morally superior* about our methods.”

“Yes Clark does have morals,” said Chloe. “But Clark will do what he believes to be right.” She defended her friend.

“I didn’t mean anything derogatory by it Chloe,” said Lucas. “I know he’s your friend and he did help us rescue you, but even you have to admit he does have a problem with our methods.”

“We are getting ahead of ourselves,” said Lillian. “First, Byron do you have a spell that will do what we want?”

“Not too hand, but if anyone can find it, it will be Claudio.”

“Excellent, while you are searching for that we will send a ‘scouting’ party if you like to Egypt. Members still to be decided,” she added as voices volunteered.

“I’ll deal with Clark,” said Chloe. “No offence but he is likely to listen to me before anyone else here.”

“I agree,” said Lionel, “but don’t mention anything yet. Just test the waters so to speak. This plan is not going to even get off the ground if we don’t find the spell.”

Chloe nodded.

“Do you need help finding the spell?” asked Natasha.

“I don’t think so. Claudio seems very eager to help and his knowledge of the more arcane books is far superior to anyone here, I’d say let him continue. If things aren’t going well I’ll let you know,” said Byron.

“Plus it will help him mend the bridges with Lynette,” murmured Lillian.

“Perfect,” said Lionel. “Sergi, can you and Natasha join Lillian and myself in my study please?”

“Dad, I wanted to…” Lex and Lucas said at the same time.

“Later boys,” said their father. Lionel knew they wanted to talk to him about being part of the ‘scouting party’ to Egypt. But before that group could be decided he needed to talk with Sergi, Natasha and Lillian.

Byron left the room to consult Lynette and Claudio.

Lionel left and the others quickly followed him, ignoring the calls from their children.

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

“It you weren’t so close to death anyway I would kill you myself,” growled Altair. “What the hell did you think you were doing?”

“I was doing my final…” Iset paused, as her breathing grew raspier. She took a couple of strained breaths. Altair cringed slightly, the sight looking strange on his demon face.

“My final task for you,” she continued. “Sending a vision to Oliver would have been futile. And even trying would probably have killed me.”

“Like you aren’t about to die anyway,” snapped Altair. He could sense death creeping up on her… she had less than fifteen minutes left. He always hated this part of his long never-ending existence. Watching someone he considered a friend die. As with those who had been his companion before Iset he had offered her eternal life. And like those before her, she turned him down. Living as long as she did, and seeing that her place would be taken by her kin was enough.

“At least this way,” said Iset, her voice fading. “At least this way I passed my last vision onto one who deserved it. Chloe Sullivan will do what is needed, and the prophecy will be fulfilled.”

“You were a good friend Iset. I have enjoyed your company,” Altair took her hand gently in his. Death was very close to her now.

“It… it has been a honour to serve you,” she croaked. “Please, please look after my Tuyla and guide her as you guided me.”

“She will be looked after,” whispered Altair.

“Thank you Altair.”

“Sleep now Iset. You have deserved it.”

A serene smile graced her face as she closed her eyes. A sad smile appeared on Altair’s as her heart came to a stop and Iset passed away.

“May the lights guide you my friend. May you rest in peace.”

Altair sat beside her bed holding her hand, and once again silently mourned the passing of a dear friend.

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

“Looks like your party will not take place Lillian,” said Natasha.

“Well not at the scale I wanted. But we will have a gathering before the others head to Egypt.”

“Ah, and there is the sixty-four million dollar question, who do we send to Egypt?” said Sergi as he poured them drinks.

“Anna will have to go, she knows the area, especially around the temple, very well,” said Natasha. “Thank you darling,” she said to her husband as he handed her a drink.

“I think Gabe should go as well,” added Lillian. She then smiled at Sergi as he gave her a glass.

“Lucas as well,” said Lionel. “Thank you,” he took his own drink.

“Lex will not be happy,” grinned Sergi.

“No he won’t, but he will just have to accept it. He and Chloe need to be here,” said Lillian. “So are we agreed on just those three, or should anyone else go?”

“I think three is enough,” said Lionel. “We don’t want to draw too much attention. Sergi, can you inform them after we’ve finished here, but tell them not to say anything to the others. We will make an announcement later.”

Sergi nodded.

Lionel then turned to his wife. “Organise a dinner my dear. Unfortunately it won’t be the party you wanted. But we will have a night where all of us sit down together.”

“For when will I organise it for?”

“Sunday evening… Gabe, Anna and Lucas will then leave the Monday evening.”

“Lionel, that’s only three days away. You know that‘s not enough time.”

“Lillian, you organised a banquet for the Russian royal court in five days, and that was for a guest list of over five hundred. You can organise a dinner for less than twenty-five,” teased Sergi.

“I will do my best,” snuffed Lillian, who shared a knowing wink with Natasha.

“Good, that’s settled,” said Lionel. “I’ll leave you two to start your arrangements. I’m off to check on Claudio. And Sergi I’ll leave the informing to you.”

“I’ll finish my drink Lionel, and then meet Anna, Gabe and Lucas.”

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

Altair had watched through sad eyes as the elders of Iset’s village removed her body.

“Will there be anything else my lord,” a very nervous sounding voice said from behind him.

He turned around to see Iset’s sixteen-year-old great-great granddaughter looking anywhere but directly at him.

“You are very like her,” he said, and the young girl’s eyes flew to him. “She stood trembling before me the day she took over. I will never hurt you, and if you feel you cannot serve me as she did please let me know. I promised Iset that you would be looked after, and that extends to whether or not you serve me.”

“My lord, I’m, I’m just overwhelmed by all this,” she said. “I do want to serve you. It is a great honour to have been chosen, all I ask is that you are patient with me.”

Altair chuckled softly. “Oh yes, very like Iset. You take your time my dear… Go back to your village; mourn her. When I need you I will send for you.”

“Very well my lord,” she gave him a slight bow and then left.

“If all goes well Tuyla, your services will not be needed until well after this war has been settled,” he whispered.

Walking over to the centre of his throne room he stood looking into the stone bowl of water. Concentrating, he watched as the water shimmered and then a clear picture of Oliver appeared, one that showed him rolling around on the floor in agony.

“I think some pain for you,” growled Altair. “You deserve it for being the cause of Iset’s quicker than planned descent into death.” With that he eyes glowed redder and the screams from Oliver filled the room. This was against the rules but Altair kept telling himself that this pain was for Iset.

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

“Stop, stop, STOP,” cried Oliver, clutching his head.

The pain had started about forty minutes ago and had been growing steadily worse. Blood now streamed from his eyes and nose as well as from the mark between his eyes. He couldn’t even make out the images that flittered across his mind’s eye. There were going so fast. Each flicker of an image sent a shooting pain down his spine.

Oliver kept changing back and forth from his demon form. He seemed to have no control over himself. Then there was a blinding light and pain like he had never felt before exploded within him. He screamed and howled long and loud… the windows of his room shattering. Then, everything stopped, the pain, the visions. All that remained was Oliver, curled up on the floor bleeding from his eyes and moaning softly.

“What the fuck is happening to me?”

pipersmum

25th September 2006, 20:08

Altair hurting Oliver now that is good to read ;)

I look forward to reading Clark's reaction to being asked to go to Oliver oh and Lex not being picked to go to Egypt!

Excellent update Fiona :D

planetcal

25th September 2006, 20:10

Poor Iset died. That is so sad she'll never get to meet Chloe. I hope they can find a spell to transport Oliver to Karnak. Great update as always. I love Mondays!!!!! Can't wait for next Monday.

lj715

25th September 2006, 20:29

I just got home from work. I can't wait to find out what Clark's reaction is gonna be . Lex is gonna be so pissed that he's not going. Can't wait for more.

teb85

25th September 2006, 20:38

Great update, I love Mondays and can't wait until next week for the next installment!!

westwingwolf

25th September 2006, 20:38

I agree with Altair, more pain is needed for Oliver. Poor Iset, at least she lived a long life and died helping the cause. I'm really starting to feel for Altair, even if he can't really help one side over the other. I like that he can bend the rules.

I just realized poor Lucas is going to be traveling with an older, happy couple. Isn't he just in for a real treat. Lionel had to be just a bit devious with that idea. If Lex is going to be upset that he's not going, please tell he'll at least gets to tease Lucas. I love Lex and Lucas moments almost as much as I love the Chlex moments.

I can't wait for the next dinner party. Lillian is so much fun when she's planning them.

kimmie

26th September 2006, 01:48

Altair hurting oliver has to be a good sign, it means he might be able to help the Luthors win the fight.

-K-

Alizaleven

26th September 2006, 07:43

:( Iset is dead, I'm confused I thought Chloe was maybe Tuyla, and lol! yay! This was a great update.. plus its my B-day today, so it was awesome coming home to find an update on this fic :D

lilinny

27th September 2006, 02:29

I'm so sad that Iset died. Lex is going to hit the roof when he finds out he can't go. As always a fantastic chapter.

sarahnicole

27th September 2006, 20:32

Hah. Stupid Oliver. I can't wait to read about the battle! Ane the magic...I wonder how Clark will feel about using a spell? More please!!

carolannw5

28th September 2006, 06:04

Awesome Update!

Love the dreams! The just gets better and better!
Can't wait for Lex's reaction!

:clapclap: :clapclap: :clapclap:

Gaia

29th September 2006, 00:39

A great update as always. And will Clark help or will Chloe have to really convince him...well, next part please:D

Lillian

30th September 2006, 15:49

I'm so sad for Iset. But it's a great chapter anyway.
I hope Clark help Chloe, he's her friend.

Queen Of Tact

2nd October 2006, 14:54

Yeah I just love mondays!!!!!! I think it's time for another wonderful update..

I never want this fic to end:grin3:

CC

carebear72884

2nd October 2006, 18:19

yay it's update day. Do you know what the saddest part of moving back to the uk is?? I am on the same side of the world as Fi and instead of getting my fic fix in the early afternoon, I have to wait until the evening now, I suppose she must post it when she gets home from work or whatever.

ruafair

2nd October 2006, 18:40

Sorry carebear... it is when I get home from work that I post..... HEre is the next chapter, more a filler than anything else and an excuse to write some smut LOL.... Hope you enjoy.. Fiona :yeahbaby:

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

Chapter Hundred and Seventy Seven – The Scouts

Lucas’ grin grew wider as Sergi explained who would be accompanying him to Egypt. ‘No Lex… No Lex,’ ran through his mind.

“…And your father will be announcing it later about the three of you… Lucas… Lucas. Oh for goodness sake, take that grin of your face Lucas,” said an exasperated Sergi.

“Sorry,” said Lucas. “I just cannot wait to see Lex’s face. He is going to be so pissed.”

“Lucas, this is very serious,” said Sergi.

“I know that Sergi,” he replied, slightly put out. “But come on, everyone is so serious at the moment. This place is like a morgue… it’s almost illegal to have a laugh. You know me Sergi, I need to be having fun, or at the very least be poking fun at someone else. And when that someone else is Lex… even better. I know we are in the middle of something bad, and that war is literally around the corner, but I need my moments of levity or else I’ll go mad.”

“I’m sorry Lucas, I didn’t mean to imply that you weren’t taking this seriously,” said Sergi. “You are right, there is a distinct lack of lightness and humour.”

“Not a problem old man,” teased Lucas.

“And the look on Lex’s face will be priceless,” added Sergi with a grin of his own.

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

“I still can’t believe that Lionel wants *me* to go to Egypt,” said Gabe as he sat beside Anna. “He’s not just letting me go because you’re going?”

Anna laughed softly. “Of course not Gabe. Lionel values your input into all of this; you are a valued member of his family. That is why he wants you to go. Don’t you ever think anything else?"

“I won’t,” chuckled Gabe as he leaned back and put his arm around Anna’s shoulder. She settled against him, resting her head on his shoulder.

“You, me and Lucas,” murmured Anna. “I don’t know which is worse… heading into the unknown in Egypt. Or being stuck with Lucas while we’re heading into that unknown.”

“He’s not that bad,” laughed Gabe, kissing her forehead.

“No offence Gabe,” replied Anna. “But I have known Lucas since he was a baby… he is that bad. Adding the fact that this is a scouting mission of sorts and that we are not to make ourselves known, you and I will have to put up with his teasing and keep him out of trouble.”

“Kids I can handle,” announced Gabe, “you *have* met my daughter haven’t you?”

“Yes, I wouldn’t be surprised if Chloe was a handful, but remember, Lucas has over hundred years on her.”

“This makes it all the more real,” said Gabe softly after a few minutes. His tightened his arm around her shoulder.

“What? The fact most of us are vampires and that your daughter is mated to one wasn’t enough?” replied Anna, trying to lighten the mood.

“I don’t mean that,” he replied. “I mean this war… all this planning and scouting mission to a country where a battle will take place. A big battle in which, conceivably, we could be all killed in. All the dreams Chloe had, and Byron’s talk of a spell. Us going to Egypt is like the first step in the plan. This war is going to happen and there isn’t anything any of us, including Lionel can do to stop it.”

“There are no guarantees Gabe,” she said, twisting around so she could look at him. “We can only do the best we can and hope it is enough.”

“I know,” murmured Gabe. “It’s just that I’ve only met you. There are so many things we haven’t done yet…”

“And we’ll get to do them Gabe. Faith in everyone and everything is something I lost when my mate was killed. It took a lot of help from my friends especially Lillian to restore that faith. This war will be dangerous, and there will be casualties, but if we don’t have faith in each other, or in Lionel, well, Oliver has already won.”

“Oh great,” mock glared Gabe. “Another smart woman in my life. I thought when I mated Chloe off to Lex I’d be able to be the deep meaningful one. But no, I had to fall for a woman who was even more profound.”

Anna smiled at him and kissed his cheek.

Gabe hugged her tightly, “thank you,” he whispered in his ear. Anna’s only reply was to tighten her arms around him.

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

Lionel changed his mind about announcing who was going to Egypt in front of everyone. While yes he had planned on gathering all together to let them know, he and Lillian decided it would be better if *they* told Lex themselves.

And it had gone as well as he expected. When he told Lex that Lucas was going and not him his eldest son at first looked hurt. Then that expression disappeared rather quickly to be replaced by one of anger.

Lillian and Lionel stood back and let him rant and rave for a few minutes. Lex questioned the choice, and then listed off all of Lucas’ faults. ‘He’s irresponsible… He doesn’t take this seriously… He’ll be more interested in chasing…”

“Ok that is it,” said Lillian. “I know you’re upset at not going, but that does not give you free reign on insulting your brother. You know as well as I do that when it matters Lucas will be perfect.”

“Fine,” said Lex through gritted teeth. “Is that all? May I return to Chloe?”

“Go,” said Lionel with a smirk.

“It should be me going,” said Lex, not caring that he was now sounding like a petulant child. He never even made a move to leave.

“Why?” said Lionel. “Why should you be going?”

“Because…” said Lex.

“That’s an intelligent answer,” commented Lillian. “In fact it sounds more like a Lucas answer.”

“Why should you go Lex,” Lionel asked again. He needed Lex to understand why he couldn’t go. He was very proud of his son, he knew Lex had the potential to be a great leader, but sometimes he allowed himself to be blinded by the obvious. Plus there was an arrogance to his son that needed to be tampered if he was to seriously be regarded as a leader of their kind.

“We need information. And, without insulting my brother, I would pick up more than he would. I also would not draw attention to myself, at least not too the general public.”

“True,” said Lionel. “So you go to Egypt… you keep low, but someone sees you. Then what?”

“What are you getting at dad?” asked a confused Lex.

Lionel bit back a sigh. “Think about it Alexander… you’re seen in Egypt, asking questions about Karnak.”

Lex opened his mouth to speak and then shut it. His father only called him ‘Alexander’ when he was angry with him, or Lex wasn’t really ‘hearing’ what he was telling him.

“I’m in Egypt, I get seen…and,” he stopped again as what Lionel was telling clicked into place.

“It could get back to Oliver,” said Lex with a resigned tone. “And if that happens the element of surprise would be well and truly lost. Oliver would know something is up and maybe descend on Egypt before we are ready for him.”

“Or,” prompted Lionel.

“Or, he starts believing the fear his demon has of Karnak and we never get him there.”

Lionel cocked an eyebrow at his son.

“I hate it when you are right,” murmured Lex.

“Go back to Chloe darling,” said Lillian kissing his cheek.

“Mom, dad,” said Lex, and then left the room.

“I’m off to finalise the plans for tomorrow’s dinner,” said Lillian.

“Have fun my love,” said Lionel, and smiled as she left the room. Taking his seat behind his desk he sent a quick message to Lucas. ‘Son I want to see you in my study immediately.’

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

“What’s wrong?” asked Chloe as Lex strode into the room. He threw his jacket onto the floor and then threw himself into a chair.

Chloe had been sitting quietly in the small living room across from her and Lex’s bedroom reading. Well she had been sitting quietly reading until Lex came in. She could feel the anger, agitation and disappointment coming from him.

“I take it you’re not part of the party going Egypt?” she said, marking her page on the book.

“No,” he mumbled, staring at the floor.

“It’s probably for the best,” she continued.

“Yeah,” was the next mumbled reply.

‘Give me a break,’ thought Chloe. ‘God save me from moody vampires who’ve had their egos dented slightly.

“If you were seen over there, it could get back to Oliver and then where would we be?”

“That was dad’s main reason for not picking me.”

“Wow a whole sentence that time Lex. Don’t I feel honoured?”

Lex gave her a look.

“Don’t give me that look Lex Luthor. If you’re going to be in a sulk for the evening because you’re not allowed go to Egypt you can sulk by yourself.”

“I am *not* in a sulk.”

Chloe cocked an eyebrow and gave him a pointed look.

“It’s not a sulk,” reaffirmed Lex, although the tone of his voice told him otherwise. Inwardly he cringed.

“Oh what is it then?” asked Chloe, a smirk on her face as she crossed the room to him.

“I’m a little… upset,” he replied.

“Upset, I see,” grinned Chloe, pushing his knees apart and settling between them.

“Yes,” replied Lex, licking his lips as she slid her hands along his thighs. “A little upset.”

“Poor baby,” she said with a pout, looking up at him through her bangs.

“Chloe,” he groaned as her hand cupped him.

“Poor, poor Lex,” she continued as she unbuttoned his pants. “Left back in Smallville. Whatever can we do to make you feel better?”

Lex lifted his hips so she could pull his pants down. His cock was already hardening at the thought of what she was going to do.

“Well Lex,” she said, taking his cock in her hands and stroking. “What can I do to make you feel better?”

“What you’re doing is perfect,” he replied, brushing her hair from her eyes.

“Are you *awfully* upset?” she asked, her voice low and throaty, her hands moving harder and faster.

“Oh awfully,” he groaned.

Chloe smiled as his eyes turned gold. She loved that she could bring his demon out with her touch. He was so hard and heavy in her hands, and as always the feel of him sent a rush of moisture between her legs.

“Please Chloe,” he gasped as she rubbed her thumb over the head.

Lowering her head she took him gently into her mouth, her eyes still watching him.

“That’s it,” he groaned. “Like that Chloe.”

She took him deeper in her mouth, her hands still stroking. Soon she began moving her head up and down. It took only a few moments for Lex to pick up on her rhythm and started moving his hips in time with her.

“Oh gods,” he hissed, his fangs descending. “Please love I want to come inside you…”

Chloe released his cock form her mouth with a pop and stood up quickly. Lex tore off her skirt and panties He ran his fingers up and down her slit, grinning at the wetness he felt.

“Come here my love,” he grabbed her waist and lifted her onto his lap.

Chloe grasped his cock and Lex slowly lowered her down onto him. Both moaned when he was fully sheathed inside her.

Chloe rested her hands on his shoulders and began moving, setting a rhythm quickly. She groaned his name each time she slid down, grinding her sensitive clit against his cock.

Lex quickly tore open her shirt and cupped both her breasts, squeezing them, as she started moving faster.

“You always feel so fucking good Chloe,” he moaned, latching his mouth onto her neck. He licked and sucked at his mark.

Chloe was panting hard, squeezing her inner muscles around him.

“Please…please Lex,” she groaned, tilting her head to the side.

“Love you,” he muttered and then sank his fangs deep into her neck.

Chloe cried out his name. And as the blood flowed down his throat she cried out again as she came.

The taste of her blood, and the feeling of her pussy clamping tighter on his cock sent Lex over. Sinking his fangs even deeper he exploded inside her.

He pulled his mouth from her neck, blood dripping from his fangs.

“Chloe... please,” he cried, titling his own head.

Chloe latched her mouth onto the mark and bit down hard.

Lex groaned and the throbbing of his orgasm increased as she sucked his blood.

After a few moments Chloe released his neck and licked softly at the mark. Lifting her head she smiled lazily at Lex as both of them came down from their climaxes.

Lex smiled back at her and captured her lips in a soft kiss. Each other’s blood was still on their lips and they lapped gently at the other’s lips.

“Feeling better now,” she asked when they parted.

“Oh much, much better,” he smirked. “Although I may need my spirits lifted again in about an hour.”

“An hour you say? I’m sure I will be able to accommodate you then,” she replied with a smirk of her own.

“I’m sure you will,” whispered Lex and captured her lips again.

pipersmum

2nd October 2006, 19:38

Wow the Chlex smut is back and I have to say it was delicious :P

I was glad Chloe was able to take Lex's mind of not being picked for the trip to Egypt ;)

Loved it Fiona roll on next Monday.

sultrystorm

2nd October 2006, 20:10

yay! i love your update...especially how well chloe made up for the fact that lex wasn't going to egypt. besides, if he doesn't go, then there's more opportunites for smutty goodness :) keep up the great work

westwingwolf

2nd October 2006, 20:18

Fiona, you had to post this just as I was leaving for class and I seriously considered skipping but I figured I had to do what was 'right'. Damn morals.

Anyways, Lucas should really consider giving Lex a break but then he wouldn't be Lucas.

Gabe and Anna are so sweet. Poor Gabe surrounded by intelligent women. At least he knows how to behave around them.

Lex really did behave like a child, but it's a good thing Chloe knows how to get him out of this funk. Lex might just start acting that way more just to get some action. Which isn't really a bad thing for anyone.

No Oliver in this update which is kind of bad because I loved to see him suffer. Perhaps he can suffer in the next update, please?

Alizaleven

2nd October 2006, 21:30

Yay! The update was lovely, poor lex though doesn't get to go with Chloe :( hehe.. she sure did make it up to him though... and they have what like an hour left I think lol haha

teb85

2nd October 2006, 21:59

Fantastic update as usual,I knew there was a reason I loved Mondays !! After a long day at work it was great to come home to some Fiona Chlex smut !! I loved it and can't wait until next monday !!!

lj715

2nd October 2006, 22:48

I can't believe I've had to wait until 5p to read this update. Love the update! Smut was excellent & I love Anna & Gabe together. I'm glad Lex realized why he couldn't go to Egypt. Can't wait for more.

carebear72884

2nd October 2006, 23:59

yum. smutty goodness. Thanks Fi, thats just what I needed!!

Lyl

3rd October 2006, 02:16

gyaaahh....this'll teach me to mainline close to 15 chapters at once..
My brain's on over load from this....

Excellent work! The sheer amount of word-age in this story is making my eyes blur - but in a truly wonderful way. I love really long, involved, well-developped stories, and this is one of the best I've read in years. Lovely work.

Keep up the good work.
(PS - As much as I wish the chapters would come faster, I'm honest enough to admit that I doubt I would survive this story in one go....) :)

sarahnicole

3rd October 2006, 04:10

I second Pipersmum about the delicious Chlex smut. But we need longer updates!! I can't wait until they get to Egypt, and I want to see if Altair does anything else to help. When is Chloe going to be turned, rua? I'm not patient and the wait is killing me! :) Have a great week--see you next Monday!

Lune

3rd October 2006, 04:18

Great updates! Can't wait to see Oliver destroyed once and for all.

stwbrrydelight

3rd October 2006, 10:36

a repeat of the last action...and a lift of spirts in an hour...wow, i dont know if i would be able to resist something so close for so long...

fairy84

3rd October 2006, 23:51

:D it has taken me a while but i am finally back up to date
it has been brilliant as always
cant wait for the next update
keep up the great work :clapclap:

lilinny

4th October 2006, 03:27

Your smutiness always makes me smile!! As always a fantastico chapter.

Lillian

7th October 2006, 20:45

Two days... only two days more for a new chapter.

ruafair

9th October 2006, 14:14

Here's an early update... I wasn't sure I'd get a chance to update today, my sister is very very sick.... So apologies if updates are a little erratic for a couple of weeks.... Fiona

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

Chapter Hundred and Seventy Eight – Teasing. Musings and The Last Supper

As Lucas walked past Lex’s study he saw his brother standing there, looking out the window.

‘Do NOT tease your brother about this,’ Lionel had told him during an hour-long lecture session yesterday. ‘Remember, I can decide you’re not going and send someone else.’

And Lucas wanted to go; he needed to be doing something. Going to Egypt to check things out showed his father has faith in him and Lucas didn’t want to fuck that up. But the urge to tease, especially his older brother was sometimes far too great.

‘I won’t go too far,’ Lucas told himself as he entered the study. ‘Just a little teasing to take the edge off.’

“Don’t even think about it Lucas. I am not in the mood,” said Lex just as Lucas was opening his mouth to speak.

“I have no idea what you mean bro,” grinned Lucas quickly recovering himself. “Just thought I’d stopped by for a chat.”

“Well, make it brief,” said Lex, taking his seat behind his desk. “I have some things to do.”

Lucas ambled further into the room and headed to the drinks cabinet, where he poured two very large scotches. Grabbing both glasses he left one on Lex’s desk and took his own over to the large armchair to the left and sat down.

“Lucas… any time now please,” said Lex.

“Come on Lex, you can’t be that busy. Chill for a while, enjoy a drink with me.”

Lex rolled his eyes and picked up his glass. He knew quiet well why his brother was here, and figured he had better just go along with. The sooner he did this the sooner it would be over. After lots of sex with Chloe last night he had felt much better about his father’s decision to send Lucas instead of him to Egypt. In between lovemaking sessions with Chloe they had talked about the ‘scouting’ party. He had been so caught up in being pissed off over the fact he wasn’t going that he had failed to see that Chloe would be upset by her dad going.

She had shared her fears with him about her dad going. Oh she knew that Lucas and especially Anna would look after him but she was still very worried.

“Hey Lex, you still with us?”

Lucas waving his hand at him pulled him from his thoughts.

“Unfortunately, yes, I am still here, waiting for you to talk about whatever it is you want to talk about.”

“I’ve been thinking presents,” said Lucas. “I’ve realised that I never really bought you and Chloe a mating present.”

“You bought me a watch and Chloe a sapphire bracelet… I would count those as presents. And of course there was the always very tasteful gift of ‘his and hers edible underwear’.”

“They were more trinkets than anything else. But now seeing as I’m heading to Egypt, oh you do know I’m going to Egypt don’t you?”

“Jesus Lucas… even by your standards that statement had the subtlety of a ten tonne truck. I’m surprised *Oliver* doesn’t know you’re going to Egypt.”

“Ooh sarcastic Lex… what’s brought this on?” teased Lucas.

Lex just cocked an eyebrow and gave him a ‘you know quite well’ look before taking a sip of his drink.

“I know you are a little… sore about not being the one going to Egypt,” said Lucas, feeling slightly put out that Lex wasn’t rising to the baiting. “But you have to see that I really am the better choice.” Lucas sat back in his chair and waited. A jab like that would have an effect on Lex’s ego. And he knew his brother well enough to know he wouldn’t let it go.

“I couldn’t agree more,” said Lex.

“See I knew… what?” gasped Lucas. “You couldn’t agree more…”

“I couldn’t agree more,” repeated Lex. “I think dad was absolutely right in sending you. If I was to go it would just bring very unwanted attention. The object of this little scouting party is to observe and see if any information that could be of value to us could be found. If someone spotted me and it got back to Oliver our entire plan could be screwed.” Lex paused for a moment to watch the emotions play across his brother’s face.

“Besides I am much more use here,” he continued before Lucas had a chance to answer. “I can work with dad and Sergi in planning our battle strategy, you know I’m better at that than you are. Plus it wouldn’t be a good idea for me to leave Chloe, if you think about it we only rescued her from Oliver not too long ago. No I agree completely with dad, you going is the best idea.” He stood up from his desk and walked over to his brother who was looking at him with a strange expression on his face.

“Now Lucas I really *do* have work to do. So if you don’t mind…” Lex gently took his brother’s elbow and urged him to his feet. Still holding Lucas’ elbow he led him to the door. “I’m sure we’ll get a chance to talk more about dad’s excellent idea later on at dinner. Bye now,” and he gently nudged Lucas out of the room. He smiled at him and then closed the door.

Leaning against the closed door Lex smiled and bit back a laugh. The look on Lucas’ face had been priceless. It wasn’t very often that he was able to turn his brother’s teasing back onto him and Lex was going to savour the moment. He couldn’t wait to tell Chloe about it later.

Shaking his head and chuckling softly to himself Lex returned to his desk and finished his drink.

------

Lucas stood outsider the door to Lex’s study, staring at it. He was trying to figure out what the hell had just happened. One minute he was looking forward to mercilessly teasing his brother until Lex cracked and actually tried to hurt him. The next moment Lex is telling him that it’s a good idea that he’s not going to Egypt, and then Lucas finds himself outside the study looking at a door.

“What the fuck just happened?” he muttered, just about resisting the urge to scratch his head. He gave the door one more confused look and then turned on his heel and walked down the corridor.

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

THE DINNER

“You looking stunning,” murmured Lex wrapping his arms around Chloe’s waist and kissing her bare shoulder. She was wearing a simple champagne coloured strapless satin dress. It had a slit on either side reaching above her knee; a pair of 3-inch stilettos in the same colour graced her feet. A pale yellow diamond necklace with matching earrings and bracelet, borrowed from Lillian, completed the ensemble.

Chloe studied her reflection, and even after all this time was still a little unnerved at Lex’s lack of appearance in the mirror. She turned to face him. “And as always you look incredibly sexy,” she grinned at him taking in his charcoal pants and matching silk shirt.

“Do we *have* to go to dinner?” asked Lex, kissing her gently.

“Yes we do,” she replied, “unless you want to face the wrath of your mother.”

“Dinner it is then,” grinned Lex taking her hand.

------

Lillian took Lionel’s arm and they made their way down stairs. He wore a tuxedo, while she wore a pale rose dress with a scooped back.

“What’s wrong love?” asked Lionel.

“Nothing,” she replied… “Oh I don’t know. This dinner just feels so… final.”

“We stand on the edge of a war,” said Lionel. “It could very well be the final time we sit together.”

Even though she knew what he said was true, hearing them been spoken out loud caused a shiver to run through her.

“But we will ensure that it is not the final time,” continued Lionel, smiling at her.

“I know love. I have faith in you… in us.”

------

As a red dress clad Elena and Armani suit clad Karl made their way to the dining room they met Gabe and Anna. Chloe’s dad wore a tuxedo and Anna had a pale green silk dress.

“All set for your trip,” Karl asked as they fell into step beside them.

“Kind of,” replied Gabe. “I have to admit to being a little… well a lot nervous about it.”

“That is to be expected,” said Elena. “But things will work out. We have to have faith that they will.”

“I agree my dear,” added Anna. “Lionel Luthor has *never* steered us wrong, and I seriously doubt that is going to change any time soon.”

------

Lucas accompanied Alyssa to dinner, arriving to the dining room with the rest of the Romanov family.

He had gone back to his room after his *chat* with Lex. After going over the entire conversation in his mind he had to concede that Lex had well and truly turned the tables on him. And he was impressed with his brother… not that he’d ever tell him that.

Another thought had filled his mind as he got ready for dinner… a mate. Searching for a mate was never anything Lucas had given much thought too. He enjoyed the single life far too much, and his demon had never shown any signs that it was ready to begin the search. Even now Lucas didn’t think either of them were ready but he had been thinking about it. What if the result of this war was not in their favour… then he would never know what it was like to meet his mate… he would never father children.

It had taken a few moments for Lucas to shake these morbid thoughts from his head… but they lingered in the back of his mind.

He had shared these thoughts with Alyssa as they walked to dinner, and she confessed that she had been thinking about the same thing herself. They had then both stopped and stared at each other for a few moments, before both shook their heads saying ‘no way.’ Yes Alyssa was beautiful, smart and funny, but Lucas always thought of her as a little sister and knew his demon thought the same. She had also confessed that she kind of saw him as a goofy cousin.

“Whew, that’s a relief,” smiled Alyssa. “I know our families are close, but you and I….” She shuddered.

“I agree,” nodded Lucas, holding out his arm.

------

“I don’t think it’s a good idea for me to go to this,” said Lynette, smoothing down the front of the black halter neck dress that Alyssa had lent her.

“Don’t be silly,” smiled Byron. “Lillian and Lionel invited you… plus I have to have a beautiful woman on my arm when I arrive.”

This got a small smile from Lynette.
“It will be ok Lynette,” he said. “And Claudio will be there… I think Chloe threatened him or something.”

Lynette chuckled softly. Part of her had been kind of hoping that Claudio would ask to accompany her to dinner. But he didn’t. They had been getting on better since they started working together to find the spell. But there was still an air of tension between them.

“Come along my dear,” said Byron, holding out his arm. “Wait till he sees you in that dress…. He’ll be on his knees begging for forgiveness.”

“You are such a charmer Byron,” said Lynette. She took his arm and kissed his cheek. “And a very sweet man.”

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

David stood just inside the main dining room and took people’s drink order as they entered. He quickly relayed the order to two young waiters who scrambled off to get drinks.

“You’ve worked wonders again David,” said Lillian. “The table looks exquisite.”

“Years of experience mistress,” he replied with a smile.

“You have informed the staff that they will be joining us for the last toast.”

“I have… they were very surprised by the invitation. But very honoured as well. They will be ready for the toast.”

“Excellent, thank you David. You may call for people to be seated.”

“Yes mistress,” he gave her a small bow and moved to a small table to the left of the main dining table.

He struck the small gong that sat on it once, turning everyone’s attention to him. “Ladies and gentlemen, if you would please take your seats, the first course will be served momentarily.”

Everyone made his or her way to the table. Place names had already been laid out and there was a few minutes of shuffling around while people found their allocated seat.

Another waiter and two maids appeared and proceeded to fill people’s glasses with wine.

“If you are all settled,” said Lionel, lifting his glass. The conversation died down and everyone picked up his or her respective glass of wine. “Here’s to an enjoyable dinner, surrounded by family and friends.” He raised his glass into the air, his eyes locked with Lillian’s as she sat at the opposite end of the table.

“To an enjoyable evening,” everyone echoed, raising his or her own glasses.

After they had taken a sip all sat down. David sounded the gong once more… “Ladies and gentlemen… the first course…”

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

The meal passed in a pleasant atmosphere. Lillian’s as always *excellent* seating arrangements ensured that conversations would flow. And the guests didn’t disappoint her. Plus there was no air of tension during dinner. The impending battle was not mentioned, and its threat didn’t cast a cloud over the proceedings.

Sergi, Natasha and Anna were telling stories to a captive audience of Karl, Elena and Lynette. Claudio, who by the main course had finally loosened up, and Byron where discussing magic, with Gabe and Alyssa very interested listeners. Lucas was talking with his father, obviously about something amusing as their talk was sprinkled with laughter. Lex and Chloe were deep in conversation with Nikolas and Christine… And it filled Lillian with joy when she heard that the crux of their conversation was about children. ‘Please let it all work out so I may get to hold and spoil my grandchildren,’ she thought.

All in all it was a good evening.

She motioned for David to approach the table. “David, please clear the table, and when that is done bring the champagne out.”

“Yes mistress, should I assemble the staff then?”

“Yes. We will then have the toast.”

David nodded.

“Wonderful dinner mother,” grinned Lex.

“Yes, well done Lillian,” chimed in Chloe.

“Hear, hear,” said Gabe. “To our wonderful hostess,” he raised his glass.

“To Lillian,” echoed everyone else and they toasted her.

“Thank you all,” she replied with a smile. “It’s always a joy to have everyone here.”

‘Well done darling,’ Lionel’s voice sounded in her head and when she looked down the table at him he winked at her.

The next few minutes were filled with the sounds of the staff clearing away the table. As the last of the cutlery was taken away David, plus three other waiters came in carrying ice buckets with large magnums of champagne chilling in them. They were placed in the centre of the table.

Behind him where a few maids carrying trays of champagne glasses which they placed on the table. The last crowd to enter the room were the rest of the staff that worked on the Luthor estate.

“Perfect,” said Lionel standing up. “Everyone is here. David, please if you would open the champagne. Lucas, Lex please give him a hand.”

The brothers stood up and moved over to David’s side where the champagne bottles were opened with a loud pop accompanied by a cheer from everyone in the room. Within a few minutes all the glasses where filled and everyone had one in their hand.

“If I could have everyone’s attention please,” said Lionel, and the conversations subsided. “First off I wanted to say thank you to everyone for being here, both family,” he looked at his sons, “friends,” he looked at Sergi, “and the loyal people who keep this place running,” he smiled at David and Andrew. “I want to also say thank you for the wonderful food this evening,” he directed his gaze to the kitchen staff. “To all of you a toast,” he raised his glass and everyone did the same, and among cheers they drank.

As soon as they finished the glasses were quickly refilled.

“You are all aware that dark times lie ahead of us,” continued Lionel, his tone now serious. “A war is on the horizon against an enemy that has the capacity to defeat us. It is during these times that family and friends are more important than ever. We all need to band together, our strength is in our unity. We have faced enemies before and together we have defeated them. I have faith in all of us that this time will be no different. Yes it will be hard, and of course there maybe causalities but as long as we stand together we will be victorious.” He paused and looked around the room. Some, especially among the staff looked frightened, but there was a steely determination about them not to show it. He was so very proud of everyone.

Lionel raised his glass into the air. “Here is to us… to families… to friends… to VICTORY.”

“Victory,” was the cry from *everyone* in the room.