AB/BtVS FF: Nightmares in Waking Life 65/?
TITLE: Nightmares in Waking Life
AUTHOR: 38gnihsurc
RATING: en.sea.xvii, overall
PAIRINGS: All the pairings from the previous two stories---and some new ones, too
SPOILERS: Up until Micah for AB; the whole TV series for the Buffyverse; Alive at Last and Living Underground.
WARNINGS: A little bit of fur... bdsm... the usuals for Anita's crazy, crazy world.
DISCLAIMER: I don't own anyone---except for any original characters that I whip up to do my bidding ;)
NOTE: This story is a sequel to Living Underground.
Previous chapters: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9-11, 12, 13, 14-5, 16-7, 18-9, 20-1, 22, 23, 24-5, 26-7, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32-3, 34-7, 38, 39-40, 41, 42, 43-44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51A, 51B, 52, 53, 54, 55-6, 57, 58A, 58B, 59, 60, 61, 62-63, 64
PART SIXTY-FIVE
Jean-Claude had not been immediately amenable to the notion of bringing in slayers to help defend those under his protection. Willow understood that; their experiences with the rogue slayers in the year Willow first came to St. Louis were not positive. She, too, had reservations about inviting anyone close to Xander or Andrew into their circle because their attitudes could colour the slayers' views of her world and that could be very, very dangerous.
But, when Willow suggested only presenting the idea to Giles to see what he thought, Jean-Claude agreed. He told her that they couldn't make a demand such as a selection process to weed out girls who would be ill-suited until they first learned if Giles was willing to consider the idea.
That night, Asher went to supervise the management of some of the businesses and left Willow and Jean-Claude to decide how to approach the Watchers' Council.
A few hours later, they were in one of the more secluded sitting rooms, a phone on the coffee table in front of their seated positions on a white, plush sofa.
"So, how do you want me to do this?" she asked him.
"On speakerphone. I wish to hear it all."
She smiled and nodded. "Yeah, okay. But, do you want me to just... ask? Or tiptoe around it? Or---"
"Nervous?" Jean-Claude inquired. "Do you fear he may not see the merit in your idea?"
"He doesn't think I'm evil anymore. Which is good. But, what if he can't spare the girl-power? Or, what if no one's sane enough to come?"
"You won't know until you ask, ma chérie."
Willow nodded again. She looked at him. "I'm a little surprised you're letting me run this far with it, honestly," she confessed.
Jean-Claude reached up and cupped her cheek in his hand. Despite her reservations against encouraging any further physical relationship between them, she closed her eyes and leaned into the touch.
"You are an intelligent woman," he reminded her. "I do have some concerns about this plan, but I am willing to see its merits and at least consider taking it to the first step."
"Okay." She lifted her head out of his hand and inhaled deeply. "Okay.... okay. I can do this."
"Yes, you can."
He put his hand on her arm. She stilled. He chuckled.
"What's so funny?"
"Are you repulsed by my touch?" he asked. "You did not mind it so much a few nights ago."
Willow blushed. She shook her head.
"Then, what is it? What we shared was very intimate, ma chérie," he said, pushing for more information. "You took my power and my bite. I thought you enjoyed---"
"I did," she cut in quickly. "God, Jean-Claude... I did. But that night wasn't about you getting to whatever base biting is with me. It was about sharing human servants... and, you're also an exhibitionist sometimes, and I know it was about that little fetish, too."
He laughed. The sound travelled over her body and made her shudder---but not in an unpleasant way.
"You still have the power to surprise me," he murmured.
"You like showing off your beauty and strength," she said. "You like evoking a reaction from people. Lust is one of your powers. I've lived here long enough to be able to take a tiny step to that conclusion."
Jean-Claude nodded. He withdrew his hand and for a minute, Willow thought he was admitting defeat; but then, he brought it to her chin and drew her face towards his. She braced herself, expecting a kiss, but he only leaned in enough to let his mouth hover over hers so a hair's width of space was between them.
"I can feel your pulse quicken," he whispered.
"No kissing," she whispered back.
"After everything we shared?"
"Anita won't see it the way you do."
"The way you do, too," he insisted.
"Jean-Claude..."
"Are you going to rebuff any affection I choose to bestow upon you?" he asked. "Will you refuse a comforting embrace? Will you ban me from spending the day with Asher in your bed?"
"No, but---"
"Perhaps you do not trust yourself around me as much as you believe you should."
Willow felt her face heat up at his suggestion. She hadn't really considered the possibility; however, there may have been a little something to it.
"Maybe. But, it's not like I'm trying to tie myself down so I don't jump your bones," she insisted. "It's just... before, we had a very firm, thick line drawn between us when we got to know each other a bit better. Slight flirting. Some dom-sub stuff, but only when required. Affection. But no kissing without sharing power. Nothing overtly sexual. No touching. Sometimes, you'd push the envelope, but you'd never do anything anyone would disapprove of. I trusted that. Now, things are a little blurry for me. The line's feeling a little wishy-washy and I'm not sure that's a good thing because it feels like we're playing chicken now and I don't know which one of us will stop so we don't crash."
Jean-Claude nodded. "Thank you for being honest with me." He turned slightly and kissed her cheek. "For the record," he said, whispering into her ear, "if no punishments for our actions could be guaranteed, I would very much like to 'crash' with you."
Willow shivered. He nuzzled along her jawline and then slowly pulled away.
"Shall we call your friend?" he asked.
"Hmmm?"
"Rupert Giles?"
Willow blushed more. "Oh. Right. Giles. Yes."
Jean-Claude smiled and patted his knee with her hand as he leaned back against the sofa's cushions. "Vas-y," he prompted. "Call him. I will only step in if I have a pressing question. Do not reveal my presence unless absolutely necessary."
"Eavesdropper."
"A cunning vampire does not reveal his cards until he must do so."
She chuckled and reached for the phone. She put it on the speaker mode and dialled Giles' phone number from memory. Then, she leaned forward, resting her elbows on her knees, and waited for Giles to answer the call.
"Hello?"
"Giles?"
He sighed. "Oh, Willow. I didn't recognise the number. Where are you?"
"I'm on a landline, instead of my cell," she explained. "Are you still down under?"
"Oh... oh yes," he replied. "It's nothing to worry about, though." He paused for a moment. "I spoke to Andrew today."
"Oh."
Giles' smile could be heard in his voice, so she knew she wasn't in any sort of trouble. "He has always been on Xander's side in this mess," the Watcher said unnecessarily. "But, despite that, he cares about the girls and wants to help them get stronger. And, he is, surprisingly, exceedingly capable in compiling research when I need it."
"So, why did you tell him he's in Australia? Or did he tell me that to keep me from knowing where you are?"
"No, I told him I was in Australia," he admitted.
Willow nodded a little. "Well, that makes me feel better. Don't trust him?"
"Not with all of the secrets in my life, Willow," he said quietly.
"He's not Marcus Chau, is he?"
Giles chuckled. "No."
"Oh, good."
"Indeed. Now, not that I'm not pleased to hear from you again so soon, but I assume it is for some specific reason?" he asked.
Willow tensed and sat up straighter. Jean-Claude offered his support and loaned her strength by rubbing her back with one of his hands. She didn't fight off the touch; instead, she took it as the friendly gesture that it was and used to it help her approach Giles for help.
"Yes," she replied. "I... well, we want to ask you for help."
"I can't leave here, Willow. There's too much at stake."
"I know. Or, I mean, I understand. It's not that."
"Then...?"
Willow hesitated before telling him what she wanted from him. She quickly decided to launch into an explanation first. "Things are getting kind of tense around here," she told him. "There was a mob attack on a young wererat---who was all human-y looking and not flaunting his status, I swear. Police officers are closing their minds and becoming angry without provocation. There's some bad energy influencing people. They're scared and angry and acting out more than normal. And it's mostly being directed towards the vampire and lycanthrope communities. But, animators are starting to feel the heat, too. And I'm betting that'll mean witches are next. This is worse than the usual crap we take on a daily basis. And there could be retaliations. Which will only put fuel on the fire."
"I've heard about the silver devices in schools," Giles said quietly. "But that's not in St. Louis."
"No, not yet, but I'm thinking that if something's a little bit deeper, maybe its aim is a little off. Or a little wide."
"That makes sense," Giles conceded. "I accept your premise. How can I help?"
"People under the Master's protection... members of the coalition we've got going here... well, some are worried. Some have requested, ah, bodyguards. A lot of well-placed people already have them. Group leaders, for instance, and their seconds and maybe thirds. Y'know?"
"Yes, I'd expect that, Willow."
"And y'know, Faith, because she's about to pop out a baby whose father's older than should be possible... for instance, is one of those people who would like a little protection. Or, her, ah, beau, would like her to have someone watching her back," she said. "But, with the crazy quotient being upped a few notches, we're getting called out a bit more than usual to help out and we need muscle for that stuff and... well, we're spreading our muscle a little thin.
"We're not sure we even want to do this, given the craziness that happened with those rogue slayers working for the lawyers, but slayers don't really have political agendas, and we could probably use some help soon. Not with serious offensive aggression. Mostly just protection. Maybe some covert keeping of the peace if the mob thing becomes a trend.
"So, moral of the story, I'm asking on behalf of the Master of the City if you would consider the possibility of sending some slayers to us to help."
Giles didn't say anything right away. Willow turned her head and looked at Jean-Claude. He nodded and gave her a small smile of approval. She blushed and leaned back into the cushions. Jean-Claude put his arm around her shoulders and drew her into his body. At first thought, she tensed and thought to resist; at second thought, she relaxed because she knew they'd often sit together comfortably and it didn't have to change that fact between them. The black-haired vampire rewarded her with a kiss to her temple.
"What would the terms of such an alliance be?" Giles asked, breaking their silence. "Jean-Claude---it is, Jean-Claude, isn't it? I assume you are there with Willow."
Jean-Claude snorted once. "Oui, I am here, Mr. Giles," the Master of the City said.
"Shall we discuss this now?"
"If it is convenient for you..."
"It is," Giles said. "I can see the value in an alliance with you. You are a sourdre de sang and you've managed to form some sort of pact with the reigning powers in your city. Willow trusts you and I trust her," he explained. "In addition, something is, in fact, happening in the world and much of its danger seems to be centred on St. Louis. I will admit that I was already considering sending slayers there, but I didn't know there was a protocol involved."
"Perhaps there isn't," Jean-Claude conceded. "But, I think you understand that, given our previous encounter with your little warriors, we would not kindly accept them without a warning of some sort."
"Fair enough."
Jean-Claude brushed his hand over Willow's arm when he spoke again. "I could not guarantee their safety, given their job," he said, "but I will secure their safety from those within our coalition. If they are coming to help us---not seeking to destroy us all---then their assistance will be welcomed. I am most likely able to provide them with housing and necessities, if they are comfortable with that. However, there is something else I may be interested in arranging before their arrival."
"Yes? What is it?"
"One of the oldest vampires in my kiss, who was believed to be irreversibly sterile, fed from Faith. Through her blood and the application of heat that younger vampires use to assist them in their desire to reproduce, he has been able to father a child," Jean-Claude said. "I do not wish to have a child at this stage of my life, but I know that there are others underneath me who may be interested in the powerful properties of slayer blood. Even if reproduction is not a goal, their blood could rival that of a lycanthrope, in terms of the strength of a meal. Generally speaking, we have a rule that those who provide meals do not provide protection, so we would be careful not to overextend the young women---"
"I can't speak for every slayer," Giles interjected quietly. "But, if some of them were willing to feed your vampires... I would have to insist that they not be turned into slaves or be rolled under by vampire powers against their will. I know that some vampires have powers that can heighten the experience of a feeding," he continued, unknowingly making Willow blush as she thought about both Asher's and Jean-Claude's bites, "but if a willing volunteer is unwilling to have a vampire's tricks used on them, I have to know that the vampire in question will respect that. I can send them into battle because that is their job. But I will not lead them to a slaughter---whether it be of their bodies or of their moral standards."
"If some of them are willing to feed some of my vampires, would it help if I only place them with those I trust the most? Those highest in my ranks, perhaps?"
"Asher?"
Jean-Claude shrugged. "That is a possibility. If he wishes."
"I know no kiss is perfect and it is rare that there is smooth sailing in any large group of, well, of predators," Giles said. "I know you rule the whole group, but I'm not an idiot. I know you trust some more than others. I know that others may test you from time to time. I would never send a slayer who was not strong enough to mount a good self-defence, but if you could promise to place the willing with vampires you trust---or at least vampires who are not trying to unseat you or someone else beneath you."
Willow craned her neck to look at Jean-Claude. She had never considered that he would want a child. Anita cared for many people, but Willow wasn't sure if the necromancer thought she was "mother material." Plus, Willow had heard Anita say that despite the fact that she loved Damian and could never turn his child away, she wouldn't be comfortable having his baby in her home where so many disasters seemed to strike. Micah wasn't interested in children; Nathaniel probably was, Willow guessed, but she had never heard him mention it. Richard was interested in children, but he hadn't approached Willow to plan for one and she was fairly certain he hadn't approached Anita about starting a family, either.
Asher had said that he would cherish her child---if she had one with Richard---but he had never really brought up the idea of having one of his own.
As she looked at Jean-Claude, she tried to imagine him with a son or daughter. She found that she could do it with a little mental conjuring. She also imagined that having a child would make him more ruthless---but, oddly, also more loving. She pictured a small child with Anita's big brown eyes, Jean-Claude's curly black hair, and the palest skin possible for a human being. She smiled, looked away from the Master of the City and then tried to picture what her potential child with Asher could look like. She saw her red hair and Asher's pale blue eyes---and then changed her mind and imagined Asher's golden curls with her brownish eyes. She couldn't see past her own physical shortcomings to envision a realistic picture of their future offspring. She also still felt a faint pang of grief for her miscarried baby so she didn't feel entirely ready to fantasise about a family she'd probably never have.
She wondered if Jean-Claude would ever decide he was ready to have a child. If Faith's blood was what restored Damian's ability to procreate, then perhaps Jean-Claude was hoping that he, too, may take that step one day.
"I can do that, to the best of my ability," Jean-Claude assured the man on the phone. "I would also like the ask that you only choose slayers that you know will not turn on us. I cannot bring live weapons into my inner sanctum. I need to know that these young women are not blindly loyal to the murderer who nearly took Willow from us."
"Murderer?" Giles echoed. "You're talking about Xander?"
"Giles," Willow spoke up, "I thought Buffy told you about Lydia."
"She did, but without proof---"
"We don't have enough proof to go to the authorities, but we have enough to know it was him," Willow interrupted.
He sighed. "I suspected... I... what I mean to say, what he did to you was over and above appalling, Willow. I apologise if it sounded like I believe otherwise. But, I was holding out hope that all was not lost."
"I don't want to give up on him, either, Giles, but I can't hope for a miracle."
Jean-Claude kissed her temple before hugging her closer. She closed her eyes and took the comfort he offered her.
"Alright. I do see your point," Giles mumbled. "And, obviously, I wouldn't send anyone who I thought would be a danger to you or anyone in your life. That could be a disaster."
"Will you consider it?" Willow asked.
"Yes, of course, I will," the Watcher promised. "It's not altogether unreasonable. We dispatch slayers to all corners of the world---usually without room and board---for much more dangerous missions. And, I was already contemplating sending a few to St. Louis. Perhaps it would be good to have ties to another vampire, ah, coalition." He paused, letting his words sink into Willow's mind and stir up more questions than answers. "May I call you in two days' time?"
"Absolutely, Giles," Willow replied.
"Who should I call?" he asked. "Jean-Claude, or Willow?"
"Call Willow," the Master of the City replied. "I will be delegating this matter to her. It was her idea, after all."
"Very well," Giles said. "Take care, both of you. Please pass on my salutations to both Richard and Asher, Willow."
"I will. Thanks, Giles. Good luck with everything down there."
Giles chuckled. "Thanks. Good-bye."
Willow sat up and ended the call. Jean-Claude followed her and put his arm around her back.
"Is something wrong, ma chérie?"
"Thinking about babies... Xander... the big bad..."
He smiled. "How may I cheer you up?" he asked with an uncharacteristic waggle of his eyebrows.
Willow laughed. "Thanks... did Jason teach you that move?"
"Perhaps I taught it to him," he replied, grinning. He stood up and walked to the wall. He located the entertainment centre hidden in the wall behind a painting, and turned what appeared to be a small stereo. Modern, quiet music filled the air. He returned to her. When he held out his hand, he said, "Would you do me the honour of a dance?"
She eyed his hand warily. "No funny business."
"I wouldn't dream of it, ma chérie."
With that oath, she put her hand in his and allowed him to assist her in rising to her feet. He pulled her to his body but did not press himself against her. Then, he guided her hand to his arm and took her other one and held it to his chest with one of his. His free hand settled in the curve of her lower back; he guided her in a slow, swaying rhythm through the length of the song.
When that song ended another began. It was just as slow as the first so their steps didn't change.
"If it is any consolation," he said quietly, "I believe you will be an excellent mother when the time is right."
Willow smiled and ducked her head down. "Thanks, Jean-Claude."
"Are you jealous of Faith?"
"I'm actually thrilled for her," she admitted. "And, then, every once and a while, her pregnancy reminds me of what I lost. And I'm sad again."
"You've come a remarkably long way since that tragedy," he murmured.
"Thanks," she whispered.
He rubbed her back. "Will having the slayers in St. Louis cause problems for you?"
She shrugged. "It depends on who Giles sends, I guess. I don't know any of the newbies. I didn't recognise the rogues when they were here," she replied. "I don't know if he'll send experienced, older slayers or newer ones. If I don't know them, the only problem I'm worried about is their loyalty to Xander. If they're older slayers... well, some I'm not sure I want to face a couple of them, but my discomfort isn't what's important. Getting through this potential crisis is."
"What do you think your Watcher meant by 'another vampire coalition?'"
Willow's eyes widened. "So, you thought that was pointed, too?"
"Oui. He was definitely trying to tell you something."
"Us. If it was just for me, he would've waited until he could talk to me alone," Willow pointed out. "How many groups or organisations are there?"
"There are those who are watching us---two groups of them, if that information you found is accurate---and the Council in Europe."
"If a group is siding with the Mother of All Darkness, Giles wouldn't willingly... no. Not knowing what they are."
"Et alors..."
"He said he couldn't talk specifics. He was being all cryptic before. Saying how Asher'd understand his situation," she said, continuing to think out loud. "Maybe he is being watched... maybe he's working with them?"
"I do not know," Jean-Claude commented. "The Council may have formed some sort of alliance with the watchers. I have not heard of anything."
"To protect their members?"
He shrugged. "Perhaps."
"So, we'll just file that under the long list of things we don't know, then?" she asked, an instant before the music sped up to a quicker paced song.
"Exactement," he replied. He smiled and spun her away from him; she laughed and followed his lead, forgetting the sadder or more confusing thoughts in her head. "Yes, just like that," he praised her. He pulled her back into his body and guided her through a faster dance. "So graceful," he commented.
"Nice try. I'm pretty spazzy."
"Hardly."
She laughed again. He grinned.
They had danced through a few more songs when Asher appeared in the doorway. When Willow was turned so she could see him, the first thing she noticed was his smile.
"What are you two celebrating?" Asher asked.
"Another night alive, mon chardonneret," Jean-Claude replied. He released Willow's waist and reached out for him. "Do we need a better reason?"
"Non," Asher told him, still smiling. He took his master's hand and allowed himself to be guided to Willow's back. "Do you want me to report in on tonight's affairs?"
"Not now," Jean-Claude answered.
Asher kissed Willow's shoulder; his hands smoothed over her hips to rest on the tops of her thighs. Willow shivered in reaction to his claiming touch.
"She does not react that way to me," Jean-Claude commented. "I want to be jealous."
"I react plenty to you and you know it," Willow muttered under her breath.
Both vampires laughed. The sensation washed over her body and she sighed; she leaned back against Asher for support. He slid his arms up her body at a very slow speed, pausing just below her breasts before bringing his hands back down to her waist.
"Stop it," she groaned. "I'm not here to be seduced."
"Pity," Jean-Claude whispered. "I think you would enjoy it."
Willow looked into his midnight blue gaze. "I think I would, too," she said honestly, knowing that there was no point in lying when both dominant vampires could sense it if she did. "But, that doesn't mean I'm going to do it."
"She's had dreams of us, in Julianna's stead, and she knows firsthand what sorts of pleasures we can evoke in her separately," the black-haired vampire mused, "yet, she resists us at every turn."
"I'm not... I'm not ready for things to get more complicated than they already are!"
Asher kissed her cheek. "It is alright, mon colibri," he assured her. "He's mostly teasing you."
"He's always teasing me," Willow muttered, earning smiles and chuckles from both vampires.
Their attempts at three-person dancing ended shortly after that exchange of words.
Willow found herself curled up on Asher's lap, her legs dangling over his thighs to be caught and held by Jean-Claude, who kept them over his lap. He had tried to massage her feet, but when Willow squirmed and squealed due to her ticklishness, he settled for resting his hands on her ankles.
"Do you have plans for tomorrow night?" Asher asked her.
"I want to go into work. Also, check in with Rafael... or Lillian. Maybe she'd be better. I just want to make sure Billy's okay," she told him. "Is that okay?"
"Perhaps."
Willow looked at him and arched an eyebrow. "Perhaps?"
"I was hoping you would come with me to visit Sampson," he explained. "I want to know why your friend would know of him. He may have the answer."
Jean-Claude seemed to approve of that. "If you could also test his abilities... if he still carries the ardeur, I would appreciate it, mon chardonneret."
"How much would you appreciate it?" Asher asked teasingly.
The black-haired vampire laughed in reply, but Willow didn't miss the playful look he shot over her head.
TBC
AUTHOR: 38gnihsurc
RATING: en.sea.xvii, overall
PAIRINGS: All the pairings from the previous two stories---and some new ones, too
SPOILERS: Up until Micah for AB; the whole TV series for the Buffyverse; Alive at Last and Living Underground.
WARNINGS: A little bit of fur... bdsm... the usuals for Anita's crazy, crazy world.
DISCLAIMER: I don't own anyone---except for any original characters that I whip up to do my bidding ;)
NOTE: This story is a sequel to Living Underground.
Previous chapters: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9-11, 12, 13, 14-5, 16-7, 18-9, 20-1, 22, 23, 24-5, 26-7, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32-3, 34-7, 38, 39-40, 41, 42, 43-44, 45, 46, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51A, 51B, 52, 53, 54, 55-6, 57, 58A, 58B, 59, 60, 61, 62-63, 64
PART SIXTY-FIVE
Jean-Claude had not been immediately amenable to the notion of bringing in slayers to help defend those under his protection. Willow understood that; their experiences with the rogue slayers in the year Willow first came to St. Louis were not positive. She, too, had reservations about inviting anyone close to Xander or Andrew into their circle because their attitudes could colour the slayers' views of her world and that could be very, very dangerous.
But, when Willow suggested only presenting the idea to Giles to see what he thought, Jean-Claude agreed. He told her that they couldn't make a demand such as a selection process to weed out girls who would be ill-suited until they first learned if Giles was willing to consider the idea.
That night, Asher went to supervise the management of some of the businesses and left Willow and Jean-Claude to decide how to approach the Watchers' Council.
A few hours later, they were in one of the more secluded sitting rooms, a phone on the coffee table in front of their seated positions on a white, plush sofa.
"So, how do you want me to do this?" she asked him.
"On speakerphone. I wish to hear it all."
She smiled and nodded. "Yeah, okay. But, do you want me to just... ask? Or tiptoe around it? Or---"
"Nervous?" Jean-Claude inquired. "Do you fear he may not see the merit in your idea?"
"He doesn't think I'm evil anymore. Which is good. But, what if he can't spare the girl-power? Or, what if no one's sane enough to come?"
"You won't know until you ask, ma chérie."
Willow nodded again. She looked at him. "I'm a little surprised you're letting me run this far with it, honestly," she confessed.
Jean-Claude reached up and cupped her cheek in his hand. Despite her reservations against encouraging any further physical relationship between them, she closed her eyes and leaned into the touch.
"You are an intelligent woman," he reminded her. "I do have some concerns about this plan, but I am willing to see its merits and at least consider taking it to the first step."
"Okay." She lifted her head out of his hand and inhaled deeply. "Okay.... okay. I can do this."
"Yes, you can."
He put his hand on her arm. She stilled. He chuckled.
"What's so funny?"
"Are you repulsed by my touch?" he asked. "You did not mind it so much a few nights ago."
Willow blushed. She shook her head.
"Then, what is it? What we shared was very intimate, ma chérie," he said, pushing for more information. "You took my power and my bite. I thought you enjoyed---"
"I did," she cut in quickly. "God, Jean-Claude... I did. But that night wasn't about you getting to whatever base biting is with me. It was about sharing human servants... and, you're also an exhibitionist sometimes, and I know it was about that little fetish, too."
He laughed. The sound travelled over her body and made her shudder---but not in an unpleasant way.
"You still have the power to surprise me," he murmured.
"You like showing off your beauty and strength," she said. "You like evoking a reaction from people. Lust is one of your powers. I've lived here long enough to be able to take a tiny step to that conclusion."
Jean-Claude nodded. He withdrew his hand and for a minute, Willow thought he was admitting defeat; but then, he brought it to her chin and drew her face towards his. She braced herself, expecting a kiss, but he only leaned in enough to let his mouth hover over hers so a hair's width of space was between them.
"I can feel your pulse quicken," he whispered.
"No kissing," she whispered back.
"After everything we shared?"
"Anita won't see it the way you do."
"The way you do, too," he insisted.
"Jean-Claude..."
"Are you going to rebuff any affection I choose to bestow upon you?" he asked. "Will you refuse a comforting embrace? Will you ban me from spending the day with Asher in your bed?"
"No, but---"
"Perhaps you do not trust yourself around me as much as you believe you should."
Willow felt her face heat up at his suggestion. She hadn't really considered the possibility; however, there may have been a little something to it.
"Maybe. But, it's not like I'm trying to tie myself down so I don't jump your bones," she insisted. "It's just... before, we had a very firm, thick line drawn between us when we got to know each other a bit better. Slight flirting. Some dom-sub stuff, but only when required. Affection. But no kissing without sharing power. Nothing overtly sexual. No touching. Sometimes, you'd push the envelope, but you'd never do anything anyone would disapprove of. I trusted that. Now, things are a little blurry for me. The line's feeling a little wishy-washy and I'm not sure that's a good thing because it feels like we're playing chicken now and I don't know which one of us will stop so we don't crash."
Jean-Claude nodded. "Thank you for being honest with me." He turned slightly and kissed her cheek. "For the record," he said, whispering into her ear, "if no punishments for our actions could be guaranteed, I would very much like to 'crash' with you."
Willow shivered. He nuzzled along her jawline and then slowly pulled away.
"Shall we call your friend?" he asked.
"Hmmm?"
"Rupert Giles?"
Willow blushed more. "Oh. Right. Giles. Yes."
Jean-Claude smiled and patted his knee with her hand as he leaned back against the sofa's cushions. "Vas-y," he prompted. "Call him. I will only step in if I have a pressing question. Do not reveal my presence unless absolutely necessary."
"Eavesdropper."
"A cunning vampire does not reveal his cards until he must do so."
She chuckled and reached for the phone. She put it on the speaker mode and dialled Giles' phone number from memory. Then, she leaned forward, resting her elbows on her knees, and waited for Giles to answer the call.
"Hello?"
"Giles?"
He sighed. "Oh, Willow. I didn't recognise the number. Where are you?"
"I'm on a landline, instead of my cell," she explained. "Are you still down under?"
"Oh... oh yes," he replied. "It's nothing to worry about, though." He paused for a moment. "I spoke to Andrew today."
"Oh."
Giles' smile could be heard in his voice, so she knew she wasn't in any sort of trouble. "He has always been on Xander's side in this mess," the Watcher said unnecessarily. "But, despite that, he cares about the girls and wants to help them get stronger. And, he is, surprisingly, exceedingly capable in compiling research when I need it."
"So, why did you tell him he's in Australia? Or did he tell me that to keep me from knowing where you are?"
"No, I told him I was in Australia," he admitted.
Willow nodded a little. "Well, that makes me feel better. Don't trust him?"
"Not with all of the secrets in my life, Willow," he said quietly.
"He's not Marcus Chau, is he?"
Giles chuckled. "No."
"Oh, good."
"Indeed. Now, not that I'm not pleased to hear from you again so soon, but I assume it is for some specific reason?" he asked.
Willow tensed and sat up straighter. Jean-Claude offered his support and loaned her strength by rubbing her back with one of his hands. She didn't fight off the touch; instead, she took it as the friendly gesture that it was and used to it help her approach Giles for help.
"Yes," she replied. "I... well, we want to ask you for help."
"I can't leave here, Willow. There's too much at stake."
"I know. Or, I mean, I understand. It's not that."
"Then...?"
Willow hesitated before telling him what she wanted from him. She quickly decided to launch into an explanation first. "Things are getting kind of tense around here," she told him. "There was a mob attack on a young wererat---who was all human-y looking and not flaunting his status, I swear. Police officers are closing their minds and becoming angry without provocation. There's some bad energy influencing people. They're scared and angry and acting out more than normal. And it's mostly being directed towards the vampire and lycanthrope communities. But, animators are starting to feel the heat, too. And I'm betting that'll mean witches are next. This is worse than the usual crap we take on a daily basis. And there could be retaliations. Which will only put fuel on the fire."
"I've heard about the silver devices in schools," Giles said quietly. "But that's not in St. Louis."
"No, not yet, but I'm thinking that if something's a little bit deeper, maybe its aim is a little off. Or a little wide."
"That makes sense," Giles conceded. "I accept your premise. How can I help?"
"People under the Master's protection... members of the coalition we've got going here... well, some are worried. Some have requested, ah, bodyguards. A lot of well-placed people already have them. Group leaders, for instance, and their seconds and maybe thirds. Y'know?"
"Yes, I'd expect that, Willow."
"And y'know, Faith, because she's about to pop out a baby whose father's older than should be possible... for instance, is one of those people who would like a little protection. Or, her, ah, beau, would like her to have someone watching her back," she said. "But, with the crazy quotient being upped a few notches, we're getting called out a bit more than usual to help out and we need muscle for that stuff and... well, we're spreading our muscle a little thin.
"We're not sure we even want to do this, given the craziness that happened with those rogue slayers working for the lawyers, but slayers don't really have political agendas, and we could probably use some help soon. Not with serious offensive aggression. Mostly just protection. Maybe some covert keeping of the peace if the mob thing becomes a trend.
"So, moral of the story, I'm asking on behalf of the Master of the City if you would consider the possibility of sending some slayers to us to help."
Giles didn't say anything right away. Willow turned her head and looked at Jean-Claude. He nodded and gave her a small smile of approval. She blushed and leaned back into the cushions. Jean-Claude put his arm around her shoulders and drew her into his body. At first thought, she tensed and thought to resist; at second thought, she relaxed because she knew they'd often sit together comfortably and it didn't have to change that fact between them. The black-haired vampire rewarded her with a kiss to her temple.
"What would the terms of such an alliance be?" Giles asked, breaking their silence. "Jean-Claude---it is, Jean-Claude, isn't it? I assume you are there with Willow."
Jean-Claude snorted once. "Oui, I am here, Mr. Giles," the Master of the City said.
"Shall we discuss this now?"
"If it is convenient for you..."
"It is," Giles said. "I can see the value in an alliance with you. You are a sourdre de sang and you've managed to form some sort of pact with the reigning powers in your city. Willow trusts you and I trust her," he explained. "In addition, something is, in fact, happening in the world and much of its danger seems to be centred on St. Louis. I will admit that I was already considering sending slayers there, but I didn't know there was a protocol involved."
"Perhaps there isn't," Jean-Claude conceded. "But, I think you understand that, given our previous encounter with your little warriors, we would not kindly accept them without a warning of some sort."
"Fair enough."
Jean-Claude brushed his hand over Willow's arm when he spoke again. "I could not guarantee their safety, given their job," he said, "but I will secure their safety from those within our coalition. If they are coming to help us---not seeking to destroy us all---then their assistance will be welcomed. I am most likely able to provide them with housing and necessities, if they are comfortable with that. However, there is something else I may be interested in arranging before their arrival."
"Yes? What is it?"
"One of the oldest vampires in my kiss, who was believed to be irreversibly sterile, fed from Faith. Through her blood and the application of heat that younger vampires use to assist them in their desire to reproduce, he has been able to father a child," Jean-Claude said. "I do not wish to have a child at this stage of my life, but I know that there are others underneath me who may be interested in the powerful properties of slayer blood. Even if reproduction is not a goal, their blood could rival that of a lycanthrope, in terms of the strength of a meal. Generally speaking, we have a rule that those who provide meals do not provide protection, so we would be careful not to overextend the young women---"
"I can't speak for every slayer," Giles interjected quietly. "But, if some of them were willing to feed your vampires... I would have to insist that they not be turned into slaves or be rolled under by vampire powers against their will. I know that some vampires have powers that can heighten the experience of a feeding," he continued, unknowingly making Willow blush as she thought about both Asher's and Jean-Claude's bites, "but if a willing volunteer is unwilling to have a vampire's tricks used on them, I have to know that the vampire in question will respect that. I can send them into battle because that is their job. But I will not lead them to a slaughter---whether it be of their bodies or of their moral standards."
"If some of them are willing to feed some of my vampires, would it help if I only place them with those I trust the most? Those highest in my ranks, perhaps?"
"Asher?"
Jean-Claude shrugged. "That is a possibility. If he wishes."
"I know no kiss is perfect and it is rare that there is smooth sailing in any large group of, well, of predators," Giles said. "I know you rule the whole group, but I'm not an idiot. I know you trust some more than others. I know that others may test you from time to time. I would never send a slayer who was not strong enough to mount a good self-defence, but if you could promise to place the willing with vampires you trust---or at least vampires who are not trying to unseat you or someone else beneath you."
Willow craned her neck to look at Jean-Claude. She had never considered that he would want a child. Anita cared for many people, but Willow wasn't sure if the necromancer thought she was "mother material." Plus, Willow had heard Anita say that despite the fact that she loved Damian and could never turn his child away, she wouldn't be comfortable having his baby in her home where so many disasters seemed to strike. Micah wasn't interested in children; Nathaniel probably was, Willow guessed, but she had never heard him mention it. Richard was interested in children, but he hadn't approached Willow to plan for one and she was fairly certain he hadn't approached Anita about starting a family, either.
Asher had said that he would cherish her child---if she had one with Richard---but he had never really brought up the idea of having one of his own.
As she looked at Jean-Claude, she tried to imagine him with a son or daughter. She found that she could do it with a little mental conjuring. She also imagined that having a child would make him more ruthless---but, oddly, also more loving. She pictured a small child with Anita's big brown eyes, Jean-Claude's curly black hair, and the palest skin possible for a human being. She smiled, looked away from the Master of the City and then tried to picture what her potential child with Asher could look like. She saw her red hair and Asher's pale blue eyes---and then changed her mind and imagined Asher's golden curls with her brownish eyes. She couldn't see past her own physical shortcomings to envision a realistic picture of their future offspring. She also still felt a faint pang of grief for her miscarried baby so she didn't feel entirely ready to fantasise about a family she'd probably never have.
She wondered if Jean-Claude would ever decide he was ready to have a child. If Faith's blood was what restored Damian's ability to procreate, then perhaps Jean-Claude was hoping that he, too, may take that step one day.
"I can do that, to the best of my ability," Jean-Claude assured the man on the phone. "I would also like the ask that you only choose slayers that you know will not turn on us. I cannot bring live weapons into my inner sanctum. I need to know that these young women are not blindly loyal to the murderer who nearly took Willow from us."
"Murderer?" Giles echoed. "You're talking about Xander?"
"Giles," Willow spoke up, "I thought Buffy told you about Lydia."
"She did, but without proof---"
"We don't have enough proof to go to the authorities, but we have enough to know it was him," Willow interrupted.
He sighed. "I suspected... I... what I mean to say, what he did to you was over and above appalling, Willow. I apologise if it sounded like I believe otherwise. But, I was holding out hope that all was not lost."
"I don't want to give up on him, either, Giles, but I can't hope for a miracle."
Jean-Claude kissed her temple before hugging her closer. She closed her eyes and took the comfort he offered her.
"Alright. I do see your point," Giles mumbled. "And, obviously, I wouldn't send anyone who I thought would be a danger to you or anyone in your life. That could be a disaster."
"Will you consider it?" Willow asked.
"Yes, of course, I will," the Watcher promised. "It's not altogether unreasonable. We dispatch slayers to all corners of the world---usually without room and board---for much more dangerous missions. And, I was already contemplating sending a few to St. Louis. Perhaps it would be good to have ties to another vampire, ah, coalition." He paused, letting his words sink into Willow's mind and stir up more questions than answers. "May I call you in two days' time?"
"Absolutely, Giles," Willow replied.
"Who should I call?" he asked. "Jean-Claude, or Willow?"
"Call Willow," the Master of the City replied. "I will be delegating this matter to her. It was her idea, after all."
"Very well," Giles said. "Take care, both of you. Please pass on my salutations to both Richard and Asher, Willow."
"I will. Thanks, Giles. Good luck with everything down there."
Giles chuckled. "Thanks. Good-bye."
Willow sat up and ended the call. Jean-Claude followed her and put his arm around her back.
"Is something wrong, ma chérie?"
"Thinking about babies... Xander... the big bad..."
He smiled. "How may I cheer you up?" he asked with an uncharacteristic waggle of his eyebrows.
Willow laughed. "Thanks... did Jason teach you that move?"
"Perhaps I taught it to him," he replied, grinning. He stood up and walked to the wall. He located the entertainment centre hidden in the wall behind a painting, and turned what appeared to be a small stereo. Modern, quiet music filled the air. He returned to her. When he held out his hand, he said, "Would you do me the honour of a dance?"
She eyed his hand warily. "No funny business."
"I wouldn't dream of it, ma chérie."
With that oath, she put her hand in his and allowed him to assist her in rising to her feet. He pulled her to his body but did not press himself against her. Then, he guided her hand to his arm and took her other one and held it to his chest with one of his. His free hand settled in the curve of her lower back; he guided her in a slow, swaying rhythm through the length of the song.
When that song ended another began. It was just as slow as the first so their steps didn't change.
"If it is any consolation," he said quietly, "I believe you will be an excellent mother when the time is right."
Willow smiled and ducked her head down. "Thanks, Jean-Claude."
"Are you jealous of Faith?"
"I'm actually thrilled for her," she admitted. "And, then, every once and a while, her pregnancy reminds me of what I lost. And I'm sad again."
"You've come a remarkably long way since that tragedy," he murmured.
"Thanks," she whispered.
He rubbed her back. "Will having the slayers in St. Louis cause problems for you?"
She shrugged. "It depends on who Giles sends, I guess. I don't know any of the newbies. I didn't recognise the rogues when they were here," she replied. "I don't know if he'll send experienced, older slayers or newer ones. If I don't know them, the only problem I'm worried about is their loyalty to Xander. If they're older slayers... well, some I'm not sure I want to face a couple of them, but my discomfort isn't what's important. Getting through this potential crisis is."
"What do you think your Watcher meant by 'another vampire coalition?'"
Willow's eyes widened. "So, you thought that was pointed, too?"
"Oui. He was definitely trying to tell you something."
"Us. If it was just for me, he would've waited until he could talk to me alone," Willow pointed out. "How many groups or organisations are there?"
"There are those who are watching us---two groups of them, if that information you found is accurate---and the Council in Europe."
"If a group is siding with the Mother of All Darkness, Giles wouldn't willingly... no. Not knowing what they are."
"Et alors..."
"He said he couldn't talk specifics. He was being all cryptic before. Saying how Asher'd understand his situation," she said, continuing to think out loud. "Maybe he is being watched... maybe he's working with them?"
"I do not know," Jean-Claude commented. "The Council may have formed some sort of alliance with the watchers. I have not heard of anything."
"To protect their members?"
He shrugged. "Perhaps."
"So, we'll just file that under the long list of things we don't know, then?" she asked, an instant before the music sped up to a quicker paced song.
"Exactement," he replied. He smiled and spun her away from him; she laughed and followed his lead, forgetting the sadder or more confusing thoughts in her head. "Yes, just like that," he praised her. He pulled her back into his body and guided her through a faster dance. "So graceful," he commented.
"Nice try. I'm pretty spazzy."
"Hardly."
She laughed again. He grinned.
They had danced through a few more songs when Asher appeared in the doorway. When Willow was turned so she could see him, the first thing she noticed was his smile.
"What are you two celebrating?" Asher asked.
"Another night alive, mon chardonneret," Jean-Claude replied. He released Willow's waist and reached out for him. "Do we need a better reason?"
"Non," Asher told him, still smiling. He took his master's hand and allowed himself to be guided to Willow's back. "Do you want me to report in on tonight's affairs?"
"Not now," Jean-Claude answered.
Asher kissed Willow's shoulder; his hands smoothed over her hips to rest on the tops of her thighs. Willow shivered in reaction to his claiming touch.
"She does not react that way to me," Jean-Claude commented. "I want to be jealous."
"I react plenty to you and you know it," Willow muttered under her breath.
Both vampires laughed. The sensation washed over her body and she sighed; she leaned back against Asher for support. He slid his arms up her body at a very slow speed, pausing just below her breasts before bringing his hands back down to her waist.
"Stop it," she groaned. "I'm not here to be seduced."
"Pity," Jean-Claude whispered. "I think you would enjoy it."
Willow looked into his midnight blue gaze. "I think I would, too," she said honestly, knowing that there was no point in lying when both dominant vampires could sense it if she did. "But, that doesn't mean I'm going to do it."
"She's had dreams of us, in Julianna's stead, and she knows firsthand what sorts of pleasures we can evoke in her separately," the black-haired vampire mused, "yet, she resists us at every turn."
"I'm not... I'm not ready for things to get more complicated than they already are!"
Asher kissed her cheek. "It is alright, mon colibri," he assured her. "He's mostly teasing you."
"He's always teasing me," Willow muttered, earning smiles and chuckles from both vampires.
Their attempts at three-person dancing ended shortly after that exchange of words.
Willow found herself curled up on Asher's lap, her legs dangling over his thighs to be caught and held by Jean-Claude, who kept them over his lap. He had tried to massage her feet, but when Willow squirmed and squealed due to her ticklishness, he settled for resting his hands on her ankles.
"Do you have plans for tomorrow night?" Asher asked her.
"I want to go into work. Also, check in with Rafael... or Lillian. Maybe she'd be better. I just want to make sure Billy's okay," she told him. "Is that okay?"
"Perhaps."
Willow looked at him and arched an eyebrow. "Perhaps?"
"I was hoping you would come with me to visit Sampson," he explained. "I want to know why your friend would know of him. He may have the answer."
Jean-Claude seemed to approve of that. "If you could also test his abilities... if he still carries the ardeur, I would appreciate it, mon chardonneret."
"How much would you appreciate it?" Asher asked teasingly.
The black-haired vampire laughed in reply, but Willow didn't miss the playful look he shot over her head.
TBC