The Magic Behind the Magic

Chapter One
“The Kiss”

Harry was shaking with rage as he spun to face the white haired Slytherin. His wand was gripped tightly in his right hand. It sliced threw the air with an evil hiss as he brought it to just inches from Malfoy’s nose.
“Don’t you ever, EVER talk about my parents again!” The famous Malfoy smirk did nothing but enrage the young Gryffindor. The wand suddenly streaked to Harry’s side. Malfoy’s eyebrow rose in question. Without warning, Harry leaned toward his sworn enemy and firmly planted a kiss right on Malfoy’s lips.
“CUT!” yelled the director. “Real cute, Daniel, but I don’t think that’s what JK wrote in her book and looking over the script, I can’t find it in here either.” Daniel and Tom were rolling on the floor in laughter, along with the rest of the crew. “That’s it! Lunch everybody!” called out the director as he threw the script into the air in mock disgust.
“Sorry, Chris,” said Daniel, still chuckling. “I just couldn’t help myself. Tom’s soooo cute!” That brought on another round of laughs.
The crew trooped out to lunch leaving Daniel and Tom still gigging on the set. Finally both boys turned serious.
“You took a mighty big chance,” said Tom. Daniel grinned.
“I just couldn’t help myself. You really are just too cute.” Tom blushed as Daniel softly kissed him again.
“We have to be careful,” Tom said as their lips parted.
“But I don’t want to be careful. I want to be myself and that means expressing the way I feel about you whenever and wherever I want to.”
“Fine, but let’s do it a bit more discretely.” Daniel rolled his eyes as he pulled out his wand.
“OK. Where do you want to go for lunch?” he asked Tom, who frowned for a moment. His eyebrows rose when the idea struck.
“Diagon Alley?” Daniel smirked.
“You really have been on the set too long.” He grabbed Tom’s hand, muttered a few words and flicked his wand. The two boys disappeared from the set and appeared a split second later in a narrow alley deep in the heart of downtown London. They both pulled their robes up around them to stave off the bitterly cold winter wind. Old crates lay crumpled against the cold, moist walls. Scraps of paper, dirt and trash covered the old cobblestones and occasionally were whisked into the ice-cold breeze. They made their way quietly down the darkened alley to where it curved to the left. Even though it was high noon, the alley was shrouded in darkness from the surrounding buildings.
They stopped in front of a drab olive green door. The small brass Lion’s head was tarnished, its years of age and use hiding what was once a proud knocker. Tom tapped it with his wand three times. The door creaked open. Cheery voices came from within along with warmth and the smell of good food.
“After you, babe,” said Tom. Daniel gave him a quick kiss on the cheek and walked inside.
“Well, if it isn’t the boy who lived and the boy who shouldn’t have,” a large gruff man said jokingly as he held up his tankard, toasting the two new patrons of the establishment.
“Shut up, ya ol fool!” a woman called out from behind the counter. The room was dimly lit, but oozed with warmth and friendliness. Tom and Daniel made their way over to the bar smiling and nodding at different people.
“Hi ya, Agnes,” smiled Tom as his sat down on a stool. Daniel took the adjacent stool and smiled as well.
“Yeah, it’s been a while. How have you been?” asked Daniel.
“Fine as frog hair split down the middle,” she said with a toothy grin. “What can I get you gents? I’ve got homemade soup today, guaranteed to warm you up through and through.”
“Perfect,” declared Tom.
“Me too,” chimed in Daniel. Agnes beamed and turned quickly to the kitchen, but only to reappear as soon as she had left but returning with two bowls of steaming hot soup. She put them down in front of the boys, then put her hands on her wide hips.
“Tom, Daniel. You boys behavin’?”
“Oh, yes ma’am,” said Daniel, blushing. She immediately raised an eyebrow.
“What have I told you? You two are walking a fine line. We don’t need another Salem Witch Hunt!” Tom gulped as the images from his history class played back in his mind. Daniel’s face when pale.
“We’re being careful, Agnes. I swear it,” said Daniel.
The pleasantly round women with the slightly unkempt hair relaxed her frown and wiped her hands on her apron.
“I know, but it doesn’t mean an old woman can’t worry about her two favorite lads, now does it?”
“You don’t have to worry about me,” said Tom. Then he nodded in Daniel’s direction. “Now this one’s another story.” The punch to Tom’s arm was expected, as was the laughter that followed.
“Excuse me,” interrupted a rather decrepit old man. “How’s the filming going? Making us look good are you?”
“Of course we are ,” Tom said smiling at the man.
“Reginald,” Agnes said in a firm voice.
“Uh oh, I know that voice. I’ll leave you lads to your lunch.” He turned to leave, but paused. “The soup is quite good today,” making his comment to the boys, but looking at Agnes. She positively glowed then hurried about taking care of other customers.
Tom and Daniel turned back to their soup and ate quietly. The occasional touch of an elbow or a knee didn’t go without a returned smile. It was obvious to anyone watching that they were quite smitten.
A loud disturbance at the far end of the room grabbed everyone’s attention. A bright flash of light sent most of the patrons scattering for the floor. Daniel stood quickly, placing himself in front of Tom, and drew his wand. Eyes like an eagle scanned the far end of the room. Reflexes like a cat stood at the ready. The tension was palpable. Daniel’s movement was swift and precise.
“Rigescere!” Daniel called out as he flicked his wand toward the corner of the room. The resulting crash of a body slamming into the floor was greeted with sighs of relief.
“Thank you, Daniel,” gushed Agnes as she hurried to the far corner. Daniel stowed his wand and turned to Tom.
“Are you OK?”
“I’m fine. Show off.” Daniel blinked in shock at the unexpected comment. “You didn’t need to jump up to protect me. I’m perfectly capable of the freeze spell.”
“I know you are, but it’s my natural instinct to protect you. Gimme a break,” Daniel said hotly as he sat back down. He stared into his almost empty bowl of soup. The smooth hand on his cheek turned his face to see a smiling Tom.
“You’re so sweet when you’re like this,” Tom said softly. The boys leaned closer to each other. Their lips were mere inches apart when they were interrupted by someone clearing their throat. Both turned at the same time to look the constable in the face.
“Someone’s been casting spells,” the officer said with an upturned eyebrow. Tom stood up and placed himself in front of Daniel.
“Yeah, someone has. And if someone else had been diligent enough to keep crazy people separated from their wands, he wouldn’t have had to.” The constable’s expression turned into a frown. Just as he was about to fire a retort, Daniel stepped in front of Tom.
“I’m sure Tom was certainly referring to administrative folks and not hard working men like you.” The constable’s expression softened.
“I’ll take care of the mess. You two just keep your noses clean.” The constable turned toward the other side of the room.
“Come on, let’s go. It’s almost time to be back,” said Daniel.
“That’s the second time today you’ve one-upped me, boy wonder.” Daniel tossed some coins on the counter then turned to Tom.
“Can I make it up to you tonight?”
“Certainly.”
“Excellent. Then why don’t you take us back?”
“Gladly,” said Tom as he drew his wand.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~






Chapter Two
“Malin”

In another part of London, hidden deep within the auspices of fallen grandeur, a lone figure paced back and forth. The robe he wore swept across the stale air with each turn. The figure, an elderly man, slightly stooped, wore and expression of rage. His eyebrows were pitched toward the center of his forehead as his mind worked through the problem at hand. His eyes glowed a fiery red from the frustration, hate and exhaustion from days without sleep. The pacing stopped only long enough to re-fire his pipe, which he kept tightly between his teeth. The gray smoke spread throughout the room, unimpeded by any movement of air, save the sweep of his robe at each frustrating turn. The lone figure had been pacing for nearly a week. All of his sources confirmed his suspicion.
“Those damn meddlesome kids,” he mumbled to himself. “They need to be taught some proper respect.” He whirled round once again and came to an abrupt stop. The smile that grew ever so slowly from one corner of his mouth faded into an evil sneer. “And I know just the bloke to do it.” Reaching within the confines of his robe, he pulled out his wand.
“Verba communico, Osomma,” he said firmly as he pointed the wand at the television in the corner. The screen crackled with bright flashes, went totally black, then slowly started to glow. As the intensity increased, an Arab man appeared.
“Yes, Master,” the man said in Arabic as he bowed.
“Rise and speak.” The man stood and faced his master.
“What is thy bidding?”
“Come now, Osomma. You’re a man of the world. You must know that proper British protocols insist on small talk first.”
“Certainly, my lord.”
“Dispense with formalities. I hope you’re enjoying my villa?”
“It is the epitome of luxury.”
“For what I pay, you better be enjoying it. Villas in the highlands of Germany don’t come cheap, but they do provide the perfect retreat from the eyes of the world.”
“And your generosity, my lord, is most appreciated.”
“Ah, then, maybe my generosity can be repaid, in part, by a small favor?”
“My resources are at your command, my lord.”
“Ever the suave and debonair servant, Osomma,” the elderly man chuckled, but then turned serous. “I have two pains in my arse that need to be plucked from existence.”
“My resources reach far and wide, my lord.”
“I know that, you twit!” the elderly man spat. “There are two teenagers who defy everything that is sacred to the true world of magic. They must be eliminated at all costs.” The Arab couldn’t help but smile.
“Certainly a menial task as this is within the range and scope of my lord’s intimate staff?” The old man sneered.
“You pompous ass! Of course it is! But this task must be delicate. The two of which I speak are, ah, special. They are immensely popular within the magical world as well as the human world. So much so, that I am in need of dubious methods of removal … methods I believe that are at your beckoned call, Osomma.” The Arab bowed and smiled.
“My lord, it is indeed an immense pleasure to bring my army to bear on those who bring you trouble.”
“Good, for it would be of immense pleasure to bring unbearable pain and torture to those who would deny me.” The Arab flinched at the words, but held his composure.
“What would you have me do, my lord?”

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

There are certain things in the world of the mortal human being that are accepted, and then there are certain things that are merely speculated about. The world of the magical reigns among those of the speculative. Everything that denies to conform to the conservative views of mortal human thinking are considered evil … magic, the dark arts, witches and wizards, ghosts, telekinesis, and even, to the surprise of the magical world, homosexuality. Being “gay” had long been accepted as a normal way of life in the magical community for as long as any of the wisest of the wise could remember. To contradict Mother Nature and her Devine plan is ostracizable.
There are eight esoteric powers over the material plane. Mother Nature makes these powers available to everyone, but there are only a few who have the predisposition to be aware of them and even fewer who are able to use them. Those that have the ability are called magical. They are entrusted with a gift. As with all gifts of this magnitude, they are not to be abused. Of these magical people, there are a few seekers of the truth that find themselves preoccupied with these powers and are distracted from the transcendent truth. The powers become a source of ego and are used to control and manipulate, winning submission and adulation. The deliberate use of these gifts in one’s own self-perpetuation is frowned upon by sages and advanced sincere seekers. These practices are distractions from the real goal of transcendent truth and become a source of evil.
The eight powers are Anima, Mahima, Laghima, Iishitva, Prakamyam, Antarayamitva, Prapti and Vashitva,. Anima is the ability to become very small. Mahina is the ability to become very large. Laghimna is the ability to become very light or to be anywhere in the universe. This comes from controlling the ability to be between the chakras of fire and ice. Iishitva is the ability to understand all entities in the universe and to direct and witness their actions. Prakamyam is the ability to take the form of anything. Antarayamitva is the ability to see the inner nature of any entity. Prapti is one of the most egotistical powers in that it is the ability to get or create whatever is desired. And finally, there is Vashitva, the ability to control forces and create new life.
Malin, the old man, was intimately aware of each of these powers and had evoked each and every one of them or some variation of each during his life. At last the old man was able to sit back on the settee in front of the fire and relax. His conscious mind was filled with horrific visions of torture and death for the two teenagers. The thoughts filled his conscious mind. Schemes of pain, torment and the ultimate end to the two people who had reeked more havoc over his plans than any other living souls brought a smile to his haggard face.
“Those two little weaklings won’t know what hit them. I look forward to leeching the very life out of each of them while the other one watches.” He giggled out loud as he conjured up a cup of tea. Its sweet, warm liquid quenched his parched throat. “Yes indeed. Those two sorry excuses of wizardry are going to regret ever being born.”

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

On a mostly deserted street in London's warehouse district, the location manager for the film had found the perfect setting for scenes at the door of the Leaky Cauldron. The street on either side of the location shoot for the movie had been cordoned off and each end was guarded by hired off-duty constables to keep the crowds of fans at bay. Trailers for each of the top stars of the film had been moved there for wardrobe, makeup, relaxing between takes and in the case of the younger film's stars, so teachers could have access to provide education in required British courses. Coming from lunch, Tom and Daniel appeared in Tom's trailer.
"Now remember, we need to be discrete," said Tom as he stowed his wand. Daniel sighed.
"I know, I know. But that doesn't mean I have to like it." Tom pulled him into a hug as Daniel continued to complain. "I see other people expressing the way they feel in public and it frustrates me that I can't do the same." Tom released Daniel from the hug and sat down on the couch. He patted the space next to him. Daniel sat down heavily.
"Dan, you're an international superstar. Your face has been on the cover of literally dozens of magazines and your name is recognized and known around the world. What you do in private is of a lot of interest. People are naturally curious. However, given the current feeling toward gay people, I don't think news of us shagging is going to be greeted with fanfare."
"I know, Tom. Believe me, I know. But I still don't like it."
"You like the paycheck."
"Well, that's true," Daniel said smiling.
"Then don't muck it up." The two boys relaxed and waited to be called to the set. The occasional snog was kept quiet and the blinds were kept shut.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Several blocks away, a lone car scurried along, its sole occupant with one goal in mind. Approaching the guarded barriers protecting the film's cast and crew, the driver sped up. Before anyone had time to react, the car smashed through the barriers and careened on down the street. It passed trucks loaded with lighting gear, cameras, generators, and movie props. The young driver pushed the accelerator to the floor. Thirty-five hundred pounds of steel lurched forward as the engine hungrily ate the additional petrol. The car streaked toward a group of trailers. The back seat and trunk were laden with explosives. The young man at the wheel raised his arm and covered his eyes as the vehicle made contact. A loud scream was the last sound to pass over his lips. The explosion ripped through the trailer and everything within fifty feet. As a huge fireball rose into the afternoon sky, a decrepit old man sat in his settee by the fire. He took a sip of his tea and smiled.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~


























Chapter Three
“Long Blond Hair”

“Tom, I’ve suddenly got a …”
“Bad feeling,” Tom said, finishing Daniel’s statement. “I know. So do I.” The boys looked at each other for a moment and suddenly Daniel’s eyes widened.
“We’ve gotta get out of here now!” Tom had already drawn his wand. The explosion rocked through the adjacent trailer sending an ever widening arc of flame and destruction.
“Cingo cingere cinxi cinctum!” Tom yelled as he whipped his wand in a circling motion over the boys’ heads. The invisible curtain of protection instantly stopped the flames and flying debris, but the force of the explosion propelled them backward. Daniel felt his legs leave the ground and clung to Tom with all his might. Their flight through the air seemed to last forever. Hot flames, flying shards of metal and chunks of broken wood screamed past them. Daylight was replaced with the breath of hell. The powerful protection spell held its own and cushioned the boys as they landed some fifty feet away. Hot, flaming debris continued to fall around them. Daniel immediately pulled his wand out.
“Itioare home!” The pop sound never sounded so good as the boys instantly disappeared and reappeared in Daniel’s bedroom at home.
“What the hell was that?” exclaimed Tom.
“I don’t know, but we’ve got to think quick. Where can we go on the set without anyone seeing us appear?” Tom thought for a quick second.
“Wardrobe. With the noise from the explosion, there shouldn’t be anybody there and we can say we were getting ready for this afternoon’s shoot.”
“Excellent.” Daniel grabbed Tom’s hand and gave him a quick kiss on the cheek. He waved his wand and spoke the words. “Itioare wardrobe,” he said calmly and the boys popped into the wardrobe trailer. The sounds of screams and sirens immediately filled the afternoon air. They stepped from the trailer and looked around. Daniel’s heart gave a jump when he saw the burnt ruins of a car partially impaled into the trailer that was once his own.
“Daniel! Tom!” They turned to see Rupert running toward them. “Damn! Are you two OK?”
“Fine, Rupert. Just fine,” said Daniel as Rupert ran up to them.
“Have you seen Emma?” Rupert asked. He was breathing hard and for the first time, Daniel noticed his clothes were torn and scorched.
“Er, no. We were in wardrobe,” said Daniel. “Are you OK?”
“I’m fine, but I’ve gotta find Emma. Last time I saw her she was headed for her trailer.” Realization struck Daniel like a ton of bricks. Emma’s trailer was right next to his.
The fire brigade pulled up and started spraying water on the twisted metal, sending clouds of steam and ash into the air. Rupert called out to the chief and explained he couldn’t find Emma and pointed out her trailer or at least what was left of it. The chief immediately sent a squad of rescuers to her trailer. The devastation was unbelievable. Daniel and Tom had seen it on television, but had never witnessed the horrid, graphic destruction first hand. Daniel couldn’t move. He wanted to, but his legs wouldn’t listen. He watched as the rescuers slowly waded through the remains of Emma’s trailer. As each second passed by, a grim realization started to set in. Daniel’s vision narrowed. His mouth became unbearably dry and he felt light as a feather. Unbeknownst to him, Tom had taken him by the arm and eased him back over to the wardrobe trailer. They watched as the rescuers continued their search. Rupert had fallen to his knees and was continually screaming Emma’s name as giant tears rolled down his face. James and Oliver Phelps ran to his side and eventually calmed him enough to stop the screaming.
Police quickly set up barricades. The fire chief and the film’s director quickly assembled a list of names of people who were supposed to be on the set. Chris quickly made the rounds and checked off the people he could locate. When he returned to the chief, he reported that everyone was accounted for except Emma Watson and Terrance Higgs.
The scene in front of Daniel and Tom was surreal. The air was filled with smoke, steam and ash. The team of rescuers were desperately searching through the debris. James and Oliver held on to Rupert. The fire chief and Chris stood talking. Out of the corner of Daniel’s eye, he caught a glimpse of bushy brown hair. Slowly turning his head to the left, he saw Emma getting out of a car. Terrance was holding the door.
“Emma!” screamed Rupert, who pulled himself free from James and Oliver and ran to where she stood. He grabbed her in his arms, all the while crying uncontrollably. Terrance stood statue still and looked over the devastation. They were quickly surrounded by other cast members and crew.
“You OK, mate?” Tom asked Daniel. With Emma’s arrival, Daniel was certainly better than before, but he was still in shock and quite weak in the knees. He looked up at Tom and nodded slightly. “Be right back.” Daniel nodded again. Tom sought out Chris, had a quick conversation and hurried back to Daniel.
“Is everyone OK?” asked Daniel.
“Yeah, mate. Everyone’s fine. Come on, we’re popping out of here,” Tom said as he helped Daniel to his feet. They went back inside the wardrobe trailer where Tom pulled out his wand. Seconds later they were in Daniel’s bedroom. Tom helped Daniel over to the bed then grabbed a chair for himself.
“What the hell just happened?” asked Daniel.
“I’ve no idea, but with that car plowed into your trailer, I’d say someone doesn’t like you.” Daniel nodded slowly. “But it could just be a coincidence.”
“I think we’ve pissed in someone’s tea, but I can’t quite figure out who,” said a bemused Daniel.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The television crackled in the corner of the room and soon glowed brightly. A decrepit old man turned from his seat on his settee at looked at the screen. His smile faded as he quickly stood and bowed. The young face on the screen was filled with anger.
“Who do you think you are, Malin?” the young man screamed.
“Not everything is as it seems.”
“Shut up you old fool. You’ve gone too far this time. There is a time and place to exact revenge. You, however, have taken it upon yourself to try to do it in front of the world’s media, like the two little imps don’t have enough of the media’s attention already!”
“I’m sure …”
“Silence! The only reason I don’t incinerate you on the spot is your son. You’re damn lucky I didn’t do it when you cursed him when you found out he was gay. To cast out your own flesh is blood is inexcusable! You condemned your own son for something he had no choice over, something he was born with. The only reason you live, the only reason … is him!”
“Yes, my lord.”
“I’m the only living heir. I have the power. I have the wealth. I have the control. You have nothing! You piss around with lowly terrorists while I have dictators, generals, presidents and heads of state in my pocket. After our last meeting, I didn’t think I would ever have to say anything to you again.” The old man winced and involuntarily rubbed his neck.
“Now, you take that damn terrorist you have hidden in your shack in the woods and you put him out. You put him so far out that even bumbling idiots like a president and his merry men can find him. I will not be disobeyed and I will not tolerate any more of your black magic crap! We do things the way I want them done, or people cease to exist. Am I clear?”
“Crystal, my lord.”
“Good.” The screen popped with a bright flash and went black. Malin sat down heavily on his settee.
“We’ll see about that, faggot,” he muttered.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The huge mansion stood ominously at the end of a long private road. Giant oak trees graced the sides of the cobblestone drive. As it approached the massive structure, it split and went around a long pool. A statue in the center spouted water in beautiful twin streams, arching upward and splashing down on opposite ends of the pool. The building itself was constructed of stone. Huge slabs of granite had been meticulously crafted and carefully placed together. The main building stood four stories high and the copper roof had weathered over the ages and appeared a dark brown. The landscaping was flawless. To the right was the garage area. To the left were the stables. And in the rear, from a large outdoor swimming pool one could see the hundreds of acres of forest below.
A lone figure approached the mansion. His motorcycle screaming loudly and he rounded the final curve and slid to a stop at the front door. He was dressed completely in black, including the helmet. But as he took it off, the long blond hair fell gracefully down on his shoulders. The clearly athletic figure flicked the kick stand down and headed for the front door. He was graciously greeted by an older Asian man who bowed deeply.
“Good afternoon, sir. All has been prepared.”
“Thank you,” the tall dark figure said quietly, but with deep respect as he moved quickly into the confines of the opulent mansion. The staff was immediately at attention as the master had returned. Every detail was attended to as he swept through the grand rooms of the first floor and made his way to the wide sweeping staircase. The almost knee high laced leather boots trod silently against the hand carved marble staircase as the master of the house silently made his way to his private quarters.
Standing at the entrance to his most intimate chambers stood two Samari warriors. They bowed deeply at his approach. The young man paused briefly and acknowledged the men with a slight bow. The simple gesture passed on deepest gratitude. Once inside, he was greeted by his personal attendant.
“Master Nichols has been quite anxious for your return, master,” the Mid-Eastern man said as he, like all others throughout the household, bowed deep in respect.
“Where is Don?” the young master asked.
“He awaits you on the veranda, sir.” The dark clad youth wasted no time in making his way toward the French doors opening upon the vast portico overlooking the swimming pool and the vast forest below.
The vision of beauty that awaited him still to this day took his breath away. The object of his deepest love and affection stood proudly looking out upon the tens of thousands of acres that made up the Vladimir estate. The dark youth looked upon the flesh of his love and allowed his animal instinct to take hold. He looked with sexual longing at the tall, lean figure leaning so invitingly against the stone barricade. The supple lines of muscle were accentuated by the tight leather pants and skin hugging wife beater. The leather pants hugging the proud muscles increased the dark youth’s desire. The fangs involuntarily dropped and oozed with saliva. He moved quickly and embraced the object of his lifelong desire in a passionate embrace. His fangs sunk deeply into the soft warm flesh as he drank of his lover’s essence.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~




Chapter Four
“Beginnings … Good and Bad”

As Peter Jennings finished his report on the capture of Osama ben Laden, Daniel disentangled himself from a sleeping Tom and got up from the couch. One of the luxuries he had spent some of his “movie money” on was a new house for his family. Included was a nice private suite for himself and Tom. It was here that they could be themselves. He paused a moment and looked down on his sleeping boyfriend. The world might go to hell tomorrow, but knowing he had Tom’s love made all the long hours on the set, the crazy fans and the hectic publicity schedule worth it. Daniel smiled as he remembered the first day they met. It seemed like years ago.
Daniel reported to the studio promptly at nine o’clock. His father came with him. Despite his nervousness, he was anxious to get started. The production meeting was for all the cast so they could meet one another and go over the production schedule. Everyone had taken a seat in the conference room and were listening as the director described what would be taking place over the next few months. They would be shooting in many different locations and the schedule would be demanding. Suddenly the door burst open. Everyone turned and watched a rather embarrassed handsome young blond boy walk in muttering apologies and cursing traffic. Daniel was immediately smitten. The blond haired boy took the only available seat. As luck would have it, some might call it fate, the seat was directly opposite Daniel. The meeting continued, but Daniel had a hard time concentrating. He couldn’t help himself as he continually stole glances at the cute boy across the table.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

As far back as Daniel could remember, he knew he was gay. The attraction to other boys was undeniable. He hadn’t given it much thought until puberty raised its ugly head. Everything had been fine until the hormones kicked in. The realization that his attraction was frowned upon by his mates was followed by months of depression. It was during this same time that other realizations made themselves known.
The evening of his eleventh birthday, he had a conversation that he would never, ever forget. His parents sat him down and explained that magical ability ran in the family. Neither of his parents were magical, but the possibility that Daniel could be was very real. They explained that a cousin would be coming that evening to assess whether or not Daniel was indeed magical. No sooner than the startling possibility was made known, a person Daniel had never seen before suddenly appeared in the room. He jumped up and grabbed his father around the neck.
“Ah, young Daniel,” the person said. “It’s understandable to be afraid of what you don’t know.” The voice was warm and friendly. Daniel loosened his stranglehold on his father and tentatively turned to look at the person who had just popped into the room.
“W-who are you?” Daniel squeaked.
“I’m Uncle Fester,” the bald man said smiling.
“I’ve seen you on TV.”
“That was a long time ago,” the man said wistfully. Then he turned serious. “But right now, we need to find out if you have it.”
“Have it?”
“Magic my dear boy, magic. Sometimes it skips a generation or two and sometimes it skips five or six. No one knows why, but children who are predisposed to magic are checked on their eleventh birthday. And since it’s your eleventh, I’ve come to check. By the way, happy birthday.” Daniel looked quickly at his father. He smiled and nodded. Then he looked at his mum. She also smiled and nodded. Daniel turned back to the bald man.
“Is this gonna hurt?” Uncle Fester broke out into a huge belly laugh that instantly broke the tension in the room.
“Oh dear Lord, no,” he said as he pulled out a long stick of wood. Daniel eyed it curiously. “Fellow by the name of Kraft made this. He gave it to me personally this morning. Here, why don’t you hold it for me.” Fester reached out and offered the stick to Daniel. The young boy hesitated, and after receiving a nod from each of his parents, he took the stick into his hand. The light in the room immediately dimmed. There was a quick whoosh of wind followed by a loud crack of thunder. The sound vibrated throughout the Radcliffe home.
“Bless my soul,” said Fester breathlessly. “You’re a wizard, Daniel! And not just any wizard. The elementals have proclaimed you as one of their own.” Fester smiled and looked down upon a bewildered Daniel. “You’re going to be a very powerful wizard, Daniel.”

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The production meeting finally broke for lunch. Daniel slowly stood up, briefly spoke to his father, then headed out the door behind Tom. He followed as the rest of the cast made their way down the hall to another room where a buffet lunch had been set up. Daniel did his best to stay close to the blond and, much to his satisfaction, found himself directly behind him in line.
“You’re Tom Felton, right?” Daniel asked as he grabbed a tray. The blond boy turned and looked at him. Daniel was totally captivated by the beautiful gray eyes that were now focused directly at him. A smile slowly grew across Tom’s face.
“And you’re Daniel Radcliffe,” he said. Daniel could only nod as he heard Tom’s voice. As taken as he was at Tom’s good looks, the voice he heard was mesmerizing. “I’ve been looking forward to meeting you,” Tom said casually as he turned back to the buffet. “Perhaps we can spend some time together,” he offered as he placed a plate and some silverware on his tray.
“R-really?” Daniel stammered. Tom looked back at Daniel and smiled warmly. His cheeks were slightly reddened from his blush, but his gray eyes never left the piercing green ones looking back. With renewed strength, he answered.
“Really.”
“I think I’d like that very much,” Daniel said confidently. They filled their plates and headed for a table in the corner. The conversation was pretty generic … where did you go to school? … how did you get into acting? … what music do you like? Toward the end of the lunch hour, the conversation took a decidedly different turn.
“This has been fun,” said Tom.
“It has,” Daniel agreed. His expression turned serious before he continued. “There seems to be a whole lot more to you than meets the eye.” He knew the comment would take Tom by surprise and that’s exactly what he meant to do.
“What do you mean?” asked Tom, suddenly on the defensive.
“I sense it. I’m sure you do to,” Daniel said calmly. Tom looked at Daniel with a very serious expression. The look was hard to describe, but Daniel knew Tom’s mind was racing.
“I’m not sure I follow you exactly,” Tom said very carefully. Daniel leaned in close to Tom and whispered in his ear.
“Your magical aura is very bright. I can see it quite clearly.” Tom let out a deep sigh of relief. His reaction to the comment took Daniel totally by surprise, but Tom’s next comment steamrolled Daniel.
“Thank God, I thought you were going to say that you could tell I’m gay.” Daniel openly gasped. Tom turned pale when he realized he let his sexual orientation slip out. “I’m, I’m sorry. I didn’t mean …” he started but his voiced trailed off. Daniel recovered quickly.
“It’s fine, Tom. In fact, it’s better than fine,” Daniel said smiling. “I think you’re cute.” Tom was gobsmacked and the look on his face was absolutely priceless.
“You’re …” Tom couldn’t even finished the question. Daniel just beamed and nodded his head. Tom’s relief was obvious.
“What are the chances?” Tom said.
“I know. Two real gay wizards finding themselves on the set of a movie about wizards. This is just too much!” The conversation was cut short by the director asking everyone to return to the conference room.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Daniel looked down once again at the sleeping love of his life and smiled to himself as the memories of their first few weeks together came back. It had been three years and the newness of the relationship had settled down from constant lust to compassionate love. He quietly slipped into the kitchen and started supper.
Daniel had been lucky to find a long lost cousin in America. Gavin had been a chef for a short period of time, but his love of cooking remained. Daniel and Tom had visited a few times and Daniel had been particularly interested in new recipes. Gavin had taken lots of time to teach Daniel in the fine art of proper culinary preparation.
Daniel’s cousin was a unique person. He was gay like Daniel, but he wasn’t magical. Daniel admired his cousin and secretly desired to have many of Gavin’s qualities. His cousin lived a simple life away from all the media attention. It was a life that Daniel envied, but he knew deep in his heart that acting was his passion and all the hype and publicity came with it. He wanted to share his innermost secret of being magical with his cousin, but held that secret close. One day he would explain all of it, but for now, it would remain a secret.
The young wizard busied himself preparing the evening meal. When he was finished, he popped it into the oven and hurriedly cleaned the kitchen. It would take a while for supper to bake, so he opted for a quick shower. As he was lathering himself up, he noticed a dark shape through the shower glass. Smiling to himself, he opened the door to invite Tom in. Much to Daniel’s surprise, the person in the bathroom wasn’t Tom.
“Well, if it isn’t ‘Harry Potter’ in all his glory,” the voice snarled with hate. Daniel had no time to react as the man pointed his wand.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The earsplitting sound of breaking glass woke Tom immediately. He sat up quickly and tried to shrug off the fuzziness of having just waked up. Another crashing of glass came from the bathroom. Tom was on his feet in a flat out run and at the bathroom door in mere seconds. He tried the doorknob, but it was locked. He pounded hard on the door.
“Daniel! Are you OK? Daniel! Please open the door!” he screamed while continuing to pound on the door. Only the sound of the shower could be heard. Tom ran quickly back to the den, grabbed his wand and ran back to the bathroom door. He was about to cast an unlocking spell, but he felt something on his feet. He looked down and saw water coming under the door, but the water wasn’t just water. It was mixed with blood.
Tom all but forgot his wand as he slammed his shoulder against the door. It didn’t budge. He slammed his shoulder against it again. Remnants of broken wood scattered across the bathroom floor as the door gave way and slammed back against the wall. Tom stumbled slightly, but quickly regained his footing. The scene before him was surreal. He slumped to his knees as his mind tried desperately to take it all in. The timer on the oven shattered the silence as the smell of baked Ziti filled the air.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~



Chapter Five
“From Light to Dark”

“How many times have I told you not to get so physical?” the blond man screamed. He whirled around, pointed his finger at the cowling man and spoke the words of the curse no man wants to hear. “Adflictatio!” The man fell to the floor writhing in agony. The handsome blond was in a rage. His fingers curled like he was grabbing something. The man on the floor screamed out in pain. With the agility of a cat, the blond man pounced. The fangs sunk deeply into his victim’s neck. As the blood flowed out, the struggles slowed until finally it was over.
“Ceenta!” The blond looked up. Blood was dripping from his lips. “He’s getting worse.”
“OK, Don. I don’t want to have to turn him, but if it’s the only way, then I will.” He stood, joined his lover at the door and tried to give him a quick kiss. Don pushed him back.
“You’ve got that bugger’s blood all over you, Ceenta. Wash up and meet me, but make it quick.” Ceenta smiled and nodded. He quickly made his way to bathroom, ripping his shirt off along the way. He tossed it casually on the floor. A minute later he emerged cleansed.
“Ah, Sarduri, thank you,” he said to his personal attendant. Sarduri held out a clean shirt and helped his master put it on. “I’m afraid there’s a bit of a mess in my private office.”
“It’s being taken care of, master. Have no worries.”
“You’re a good man, Sarduri,” Ceenta said patting the Middle Eastern man on the shoulder.
“You must hurry, master. I’m afraid things don’t look to good for our guest.”
“You’re right. Thanks again.” Sarduri bowed deeply as Ceenta ran from the room.
A surgeon was working furiously on a young lad laid out on the bed in a guest suite. He was sweating profusely as he stitched up a long deep slice in the young lad’s leg. Ceenta entered the room and quickly assessed the situation. His guest was very pale and barely breathing. The surgeon looked up.
“He’s lost a lot of blood,” he said solemnly.
“What are his chances?”
“Without a transfusion, he’ll probably die. I’ve stopped all the bleeding and have just about sewed up all the wounds, but his blood loss was significant.” Ceenta moved over to the bedside and looked down on the lad. He hadn’t wished this to happen and the body of the man responsible was being disposed of at that very moment. Ceenta reached out and brushed the soft brown hair back from the lad’s forehead. A lightening bolt shaped scar was revealed.
“I wish there was another way, Daniel,” Ceenta said softly. He leaned over and bit gently into Daniel’s carotid artery. His fangs released the fluid of life into the young lad. Moments later, the once pale flesh turned a healthy pink.
“It’s a shame, really.”

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Tom stared wide-eyed at the destruction before him. The all glass shower was completely shattered. Blood was spattered everywhere, and in some instances, it had deeply pooled. Broken glass was everywhere. It was as if an explosion took place inside the shower itself. The shower head was still streaming its hot spray, filling the air with humidity and … the smell of blood. The only thing missing was Daniel. Tom’s eyes quickly scanned the room, but … no Daniel. Tom slowly stood up. He walked quietly over to the shower and turned it off. He was besieged with all kinds of emotions ranging from fright and terror to anger and desperation. He walked back over to the door, then turned and surveyed the room again, trying to find a clue as to what had happened to Daniel. The longer he looked, the more isolated and alone he felt. Tears rolled down his cheek as his thoughts turned to the worst. Not being able to look at the horrid scene anymore, he turned back toward the living room. Spying his wand on the floor in the hall, he paused and picked it up. He swiftly turned and pointed it into the room.
“Deduco veneficium!” he yelled. Letters started to appear on the steamed up mirror over the sink. Tom watched as they slowly spelled out the words.
“Nickoli Pertrosika.” Tom stared at the words. The spell he cast was to reveal who had last used magic in the room. Tom had no idea who Nickoli Pertrosika was. He had never heard the name before, but it was his only clue to finding Daniel. He ran back into the living room and pointed his wand at the television.
“Verba communico, Will Theakston,” Tom said clearly. The screen crackled with bright flashes, went totally black, then slowly started to glow. As the intensity increased, a face appeared on the screen.
“Hi, Tom. Been a while, mate!” Tom visibly relaxed. Just having someone to talk to was an enormous comfort. But the gravity of the situation changed his demeanor back to serious quickly.
“Will, thank God.”
“What’s wrong, Tom?”
“It’s Daniel. He’s been taken.”
“Taken? What do you mean?” Tom quickly explained the situation to his friend.
“So this Nickoli person is your only clue.”
“Yeah, do you have any idea who he is?”
“Never heard of him, but dad’s well connected with some wizards in the KGB. I’ll get him to check around.”
“Thanks Will. This is the only lead I have and the sooner I find something out the better. From the look of things, Daniel could be hurt very bad.”
“Not to worry, Tom. I’ll be back in touch in no time flat.”
“Thanks, Will.”
“Keep your chin up, Tom. We’ll find him. I’m sure he’s fine.”
“Thanks.” Tom ended the conversation. Now all he could do was wait. He was positively sure this had been a magical hit, so calling the police would do no good. Time would become Tom’s worst enemy in the minutes and hours to come. With each tick of the clock, his worry grew.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Daniel slowly awoke and opened his eyes. The intensity of the light in the room burned his eyes and he snapped them shut quickly. He tried to move, but his body was instantly wracked with pain. Lying very still, he could only listen without pain. Concentrating on the sounds around him, Daniel was awestruck at what he could hear. The sounds were strangely … intense. He was hearing things that he couldn’t hear before. Small sounds, insignificant sounds, normal background sounds, were being amplified, categorized, evaluated and defined in nanoseconds. Daniel listened in awe as his sense of hearing worked on autopilot.
Then Daniel became aware of another sense, a new sense, one never experienced before. He felt … aware. The young movie star knew of no other way to describe it. He could sense everything around him, without the use of sight or touch. He just knew what was there and, more significantly, how it effected him. This new sensation was intriguing and scary at the same time. He could sense the size of the room, all the furniture that was in it and he could even sense the presence of people. That confused Daniel. His keen hearing told him no one was in the room; however, he could sense someone, no, three people there. Concentrating on the people, he suddenly realized the sense was telling him who had been in the room, not who actually was there right then. Daniel knew there were spells that would give the same information, but this new ability to do it on his own was in one way awesome and in another, frightening. Why was he suddenly able to do that? Why was he suddenly able to have this very heightened sense of hearing?
Daniel searched his memory and suddenly remembered being attacked in the shower. That would explain the pain, but it gave no clue about these new abilities. The only other question that remained unanswered was where was he. Getting up to see was out of the question. The intense pain in his eyes and his body was still very clear in his mind. Panic started to rise. He felt trapped. In his ever increasing terror, he reached out to the one person who meant safety … Tom. He screamed Tom’s name in his mind.
“Tom! Where are you? Help me, Tom! I’m scared. I’m so scared.”

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Tom was beside himself in grief. Had sat on the couch openly sobbing. He couldn’t understand why anyone would want to hurt, much less kidnap Daniel. Couple that with the recent car bombing on the set and things just didn’t add up. He could understand a human kidnapping. They would want money. But this kidnapping was by a wizard. What possible gain could a wizard get from kidnapping Daniel? It just didn’t make sense.
Daniel and Tom were the biggest celebrities in the wizard world. Everyone knew them and they were immensely popular. Even at the last Salem Remembrance Gathering marking the three hundred and twelfth anniversary of the Salem Witch Trials, the boys were given a standing ovation. The huge event was attended by hundreds of witches and wizards from all over England. The American Remembrance Committee had even invited the boys to attend their gathering, but the demanding schedule of filming the movie prevented them from attending.
The television in the corner of the room suddenly crackled and flashed. Tom sat up immediately and looked in its direction. Will’s face slowly appeared.
“Tom! I’ve got good news and bad news.”
“Give me the good news first. I’ve had about all the bad news I can stand.”
“Dad did some checking around and found that Nickoli Pertrosika does work for the KGB and that he’s a wizard. And here’s the interesting part. His file is classified. That means one of two things. Either he’s undercover or he’s an assassin.” Tom groaned. “Sorry, Tom. And that’s not the bad news.”
“How can it get worse?”
“No one had seen him, wizard or human, in over a week. He’s on the ‘Watch List’ at the KGB, which means they’re trying to find him.”
“Great. A wizard KGB assassin kidnaps Daniel for no apparent reason and no one has seen him in over a week.” Tom was having a hard time holding a fresh batch of tears back.
“Don’t give up hope, Tom. Dad’s still checking, but I knew you wanted some news.”
“You’re right, Will. Thanks,” Tom said choking back a sob.
“Hey, easy mate. Do you want me to come over? I’m free right now.”
“That would be great, Will. I really need a friend right now.”
“Be right there.” The television popped and cracked and then went black. Seconds later Will appeared in front of the couch. Tom stood up and Will pulled him into a reassuring hug. It was just what Tom needed … to be held and to be told that everything would be all right. He relaxed into Will’s warm hug, finally letting his mind relax. That’s when a familiar voice echoed into his mind.
“Tom! Where are you? Help me, Tom! I’m scared. I’m so scared.”
“I just heard him! I just heard Daniel in my head!” Tom screamed. Will stumbled back and looked at Tom with wide eyes. Tom fell to his knees sobbing profusely. “H-he’s scared and he n-needs me,” Tom said between great heaving sobs.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~



























Chapter Six
“Heir of Responsibility”

“In top stories this evening, the BBC has learned that a suicide car bomb attack was launched against the cast of the latest Harry Potter movie, currently under production here in London. According to reports, the car refused to stop for routine security checks and accelerated on to the set, colliding with the trailers the cast use while on location and exploded on impact. Leaked information by sources close to the production team claim that the car was aimed directly for Daniel Radcliffe’s trailer. Daniel, who stars as Harry Potter in the immensely popular Harry Potter movie series, was seen shortly after the explosion, but has since gone missing. Inquires as to his whereabouts have yet to provide results and calls to his residence in Surry went unanswered. The BBC contacted the Metropolitan Police for a statement regarding the incident. A spokesperson for the police said that no reports concerning Mr. Radcliffe or any intelligence pointing to the motives behind the attack have been received, and the matter was being treated with the highest priority.” Don hit the power button on the remote control and turned to Ceenta.
“I’m afraid our guest is quite popular.” Ceenta grunted. “We’re going to have to get him back home.”
“Not before we have our little talk.”
“You can be an ass sometimes.”
“It wasn’t me that whacked him with a curse. It was that stupid KGB assassin,” Ceenta said. Then as an after thought, he added, “I should have known better than to send that bugger.”
“Yes you should have. What’s the boy done anyway?” asked Don.
“He’s casting real spells! Right there on the big screen! Prancing around in a cloak and waving his wand. If he exposes our world it would, well, you know the remembrance celebration we just had? It’d be Salem all over again, but this time it’d be on our side of the pond. I won’t let that happen!”
“Is that all you’re pissed off about? Come on. He’s just a kid and it’s just a movie. Gimme a break!” Don said hotly as he stood to look out the window. He only stood there a second before Ceenta roughly grabbed his arm and spun him around. Ceenta’s vampire eyes glowed red with anger. He pulled his lover right up to his face.
“You forget my young American lover. I was there. I saw friends hanged and even pressed to death. Humans can not accept the existence of the magical world. They don’t accept anything that’s different from the norm. Hell, look at what the American’s are doing to the gays. They’re gonna pass a constitutional amendment barring any rights whatsoever! And that’s just because of who they love. Now imagine how they would react to a real live wizard, let alone a real live wizard who’s also a three hundred fifty year old vampire!”
“You’re only three hundred and twenty-six,” said Don coyly.
“Don’t take this lightly, love. I’ve seen the looks on peoples’ faces. They were terrified. And when a mob of scared people react, it isn’t very pretty.”
“I understand your concern, Ceenta. I really do, but this is just a movie. People don’t realize that some of the spells are real. Besides, you’d have to know exactly how to say them and you’d have to know the thoughts and feelings behind them, plus you have to have a good grasp on magical auras. I remember how difficult it was for me to learn what I know, and I’m a wizard. The fact that this lady author just happened to write some spells that just happen to be real doesn’t mean the general public is going to start blasting each other. I really think you’re overreacting.” Ceenta sighed deeply and turned from his lover. He walked back over and sat down on the couch and continued. “It’s bad enough that stupid Malin sent a car bomb. Can you believe that? A car bomb! The man’s a menace and I’d kill him this instant if it weren’t for Starr.”
“Ah, now we get the truth!” said Don as he sat down next to Ceenta. “Why didn’t you just say so in the beginning?”
“Because I really do feel strongly about our world getting too much publicity. Before you know it, people will be practicing dark magic again.”
“I don’t think a simple movie is going to do that.”
“Think about it, Don. Just stop and think about it. The more and more people become obsessed with magic, the more and more it’s on their minds. Hell, there’s even Harry Potter toothpaste! With all this talk of magic, there’s going to be a resurgence of interest in dark magic. We’ve lived peaceful lives for well over a hundred years. If there is a new rise of the dark, humans will be killed. And then they’ll come after us. That’s not something I want to see happen to our world!” Ceenta stood up abruptly. “We have a great responsibility here.” Don looked up from the sofa.
“You have a great responsibility.”
“No, we do. You are my mate and we are one. This is our responsibility,” Ceenta said firmly. Don stood and walked to the window. He looked out over the vast acres of the estate and gathered his thoughts. He spoke in a soft, but firm voice.
“Merlin gave it to your family,” he said as he turned toward Ceenta. “As you are the sole heir, it is indeed yours, but I will stand beside you and help you shoulder that responsibility. That is my right and my duty as your mate.”
“The responsibility placed upon my forefathers during the sixth century is something I take very seriously.” Don and Ceenta embraced and held each other tightly. The true gravity of the situation had made itself clear. They kissed deeply.
“I must go see Daniel now.”
“But what about this whole Starr thing?” asked Don.
“What do you mean?”
“He wasn’t just thrown to the street for being gay.”
“Oh, that.”
“Yes, that.”
“He’s a good kid,” said Ceenta as he headed for the door.
“And a good actor,” added Don.
“Daniel makes a better Harry Potter though. You said that yourself.”
“True. It’s just a shame Starr’s father is such an ass.”
“True.”
“Are you going to tell Daniel about Malin?” Ceenta paused at the door and turned to Don.
“I don’t know. I just don’t want to see things get out of hand. That’s all.” Don smiled and nodded. Ceenta walked out of the room and headed for their guest’s bedroom.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Will did his best to calm Tom. He held his friend tightly and kept telling him it was going to be all right. The telepathic message Tom had received from Daniel came as a shock to both boys. Neither one had ever experienced anything like that before. While there was knowledge of certain witches and wizards having the ability, it was not a common ability. Between the gut wrenching sobs, Tom explained that the voice was Daniel. There was no mistake in Tom’s mind. The words he heard came from Daniel. While they affirmed that Daniel was alive, they also told Tom that Daniel was in trouble and scared. The really troubling question was how Daniel suddenly had the ability to send telepathic messages. As Will comforted his friend, he pondered these questions in his mind.
The sudden flash of the television in the corner caught both boys’ attention. They looked over and watched intently as the screen slowly started to glow. As the image became visible, Tom talked first.
“Hey, dad.”
“Hi, son. Hi, Tom. Sorry to take so long, but I did find some more information.” Tom’s ears perked up and he listened intently. “Nickoli Pertrosika was a top KGB Assassin until a few years ago. He got a little, ah, too passionate in his work. Instead of just killing his target, he would often mutilate them beyond recognition.” Tom cringed at the words. “The KGB didn’t like that at all, so they pulled him from the field and assigned him to training duties only. About a week ago, it was reported that he had gone missing. I’ve finally been able to follow up with some wizard contacts at the KGB. It seems that Nickoli was having regular conversations with a wizard named Malin. Have either of you every heard of him?” Both boys shook their heads. “Well, right then. The only thing I know about Malin is from rumors, so it’s nothing solid. From what I’ve heard, he’s a rather nasty chap with a predisposition for power. Rumors are that he’s practicing dark magic. And that he has regular contact with known terrorists. Sorry to have to give you this news, but I thought you would need every bit of information to try and find Daniel.”
“It’s Ok, dad. Would you see if you can find out any more information about Malin?” asked Will.
“Sure, son. I strongly suggest you contact the regional governors about Daniel’s disappearance.”
“They’re a bunch of bumbling old fools, dad. They’d be lucky to cast a binding spell.”
“Son, you shouldn’t talk about the governors like that. They are well respected and even though they are, ah, a little dimwitted at times, I think it would be best to have every one we know working to find Daniel, don’t you?” Tom sighed and nodded in agreement.
“Ok, dad. We’ll contact them.”
“I’ll be back in touch as soon as I hear anything else. Take care boys.” The TV screen popped, flashed and then went black.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Daniel’s hearing detected the soft footsteps even before his new sense of awareness did. He tried to open his eyes, but the intense light still hurt like fury. He tried to raise his hand to shield them, but was once again assaulted with intense pain. As the footsteps grew closer, his sense of awareness told him that a very powerful person was approaching. Escape was at the top of his mind. He wished he could disappear from all of this. Fear swept over him like an avalanche as the footsteps stopped just outside the door. Daniel’s intense fear turned to terror as his mind raced like a supercomputer. As the door handle turned, another new ability kicked in.
Daniel’s awareness told him that a handsome young blond haired man dressed in all black had entered the room. He immediately sensed the magical aura around the man. It glowed with a subtle intensity. Daniel suddenly became aware of his point of view and it caused a shiver of fright to run down his spine. The room was spread out below him as if he were seeing it from the ceiling. His sense of awareness broke through the fright and told him someone was looking directly at him.
“I see your abilities are maturing nicely,” the smooth deep voice said. “Just relax a bit and you’ll return to the bed. I will not hurt you and I apologize for the manner in which you were brought here. The man who treated you so badly has been dealt with harshly. You are safe here, Daniel. Just relax your mind and you’ll find yourself back on the bed.” The voice was friendly and radiated with genuine concern, but Daniel found it very hard to relax. Too much bad had happened and the memory of the pain was still fresh on his mind.
“The pain you are experiencing is normal. I know it hurts to even move, but if you will allow me to help, I can remove all the pain. You must trust me, Daniel. I know you find that hard to do, but I assure you I only want to help. Please try to relax.” The words and their smooth comforting tone finally penetrated the fear and Daniel relaxed. In mere seconds, he found himself back on the bed.
“Very good, Daniel. Thank you for your trust. I’m going to make the pain go away now and we can have a little chat. Please just relax. You’ll feel a little prick on your neck, but that’s necessary for you to heal.” Daniel visibly tensed for a moment, but willed himself to relax. He really did want the pain to go away. He felt a warm breath on his face, then lips on his neck and seconds later, the prick of a bite. His body’s pain instantly started to disappear, starting from the point of the bite. The pain was being replaced by a warm, comfortable feeling.
“There. You should feel much better. I’ll close the blinds a bit. I’m sure your eyes are still quite sensitive.” Daniel listened as the man moved to the window and closed the drapes. Moments later he was back at the bedside. “Now, open your eyes slowly, Daniel. There should be no pain.” The eye lids refused to move with the memory of the pain still fresh. Daniel struggled against the resistance and finally opened his eyes. He was greeted with the incredibly handsome young blond haired man. He appeared to be about twenty-five and had the face of a model. The man smiled at Daniel.
“Good. Much better. Why don’t you sit up. I have a glass of water on the bedside. I’m sure you’re thirsty.” Daniel slowly pushed himself up and the man helped by placing another pillow behind his head. The glass of water was offered and Daniel took it greedily. He gulped half of the cool water down his parched throat. “Easy, not too much. Just sip it.” Daniel took another sip and started to ask a question.
“Daniel. Please allow me to introduce myself. My name is Ceenta and you my young friend, have just gone through a transformation.” Daniel frowned in question to the statement. “You’re not who you once were anymore. Today, you begin your life as a vampire.”

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~









Chapter Seven
"Awareness"

"I know you don't want to, but I really do think dad is right about contacting the regional governors," Will said as he sat down on the couch beside his friend. Tom looked up and reluctantly nodded in agreement. "Actually, we should make a personal appearance and fill out all the necessary paperwork. You know how they can be." Tom forced another nod of agreement. Will pulled his wand from his sleeve and after a quick flick, both boys were at the regional governors' offices.
"Tom. Will. Good to see you both."
"Uh, hi, Governor Downing," said Will. The overweight, slightly balding man, cinched up his trousers and walked over to the boys.
"We've heard of Daniel's disappearance and were wondering when we'd see you, Tom."
"You've been wondering?" Tom said sharply. "While Daniel is God knows where, you've been sitting around on your arse wondering when I would come begging for your help?" Governor Downing blinked his eyes in amazement and a moment later flashed them in anger at the arrogance of the young wizard in front of him.
"Please forgive Daniel, Governor. He's under a great deal of stress," Will offered as an explanation while giving Tom a sharp look himself. The governor looked at Will, then turned to Tom.
"You have a very good friend, Tom. While I certainly understand why you're upset, there is no reason to assume the other governors and I have been unsympathetic. Even now, we have our best law enforcement officials working to locate Daniel. After all, he is the current focus of the wizarding world. Not to slight you, but he does command the spotlight.” Tom rolled his eyes.
“I could care less where the spotlight shines. All I want is to find Daniel.”
“Admirable sentiment. There’s some paperwork to fill out. Just routine stuff, but perhaps it will give some insight as to where Daniel could be.” The governor reached out and put his hand on Tom’s shoulder. “Rest assured, Tom. We want to find him just as badly as you do.” Tom forced a smile and a nod. “That’s a good lad. Come on with me and we’ll get the proper paperwork filled out. Then you two can go home and leave the searching to us professionals.”
“This guy’s a prat,” Tom whispered to Will as they followed the governor’s huge arse down the hall.
“Despite what you might think, there really are some good people here. Just tell them what you know. It certainly can’t hurt anything.”
“Maybe not, but I feel like we’re wasting a lot of time. We could be out looking for Daniel.”
“I know. I know. But you’ll have to agree that the more people we have looking, the better our chances are of finding Daniel.”
“That’s true, but this fat arsed bastard is probably planning his next coffee break.” The governor stopped, turned and leered at Tom.
“What did you say?”
“I said you’re probably planning the best search you can make.” The huge man paused a moment and then grinned.
“You bet. Let’s get a cup of coffee and all the necessary forms. Then you can tell me exactly what happened. Have you two eaten? I’m famished. Let me just grab a quick snack. You two can wait in here,” he said gesturing to the office to his right. The boys nodded and walked inside.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

“I’m a little confused on the whole vampire thing. What exactly do you mean by vampire?” asked Daniel as he sat up straight in bed. Ceenta sighed deeply. He turned, grabbed a chair and pulled it up to Daniel’s bedside.
“When you were brought here you had lost a lot of blood. So much blood, that you’re life was teetering on the edge. I, ah, bit you and gave you some of my blood. That saved your life and at the same time ended your life. I saved your existence, Daniel.”
“Y-you bit me?” Daniel stammered. Ceenta nodded. Daniel’s hand involuntarily reached up and rubbed his neck. “And you bit me again, just a minute ago?” Ceenta nodded again. “Oh God.”
“There are many pluses to being a vampire, Daniel.”
“Don’t give me that shit! I’ve heard all the pluses! I’m doomed to drink blood for eternity! Well, I have news for you! I like my steak medium. No pink! No blood!” Daniel threw the covers back and stood up. The fact that he was naked never entered his mind as he continued his tirade. “Who do you think you are? What gives you to right to choose between life and death? If it wasn’t for you and that blood thirsty arsehole you sent to fetch me, we wouldn’t even be having this conversation! Oh, excuse me, I forgot, you fuckers like blood! And now I’m supposed to like blood. And what about the one person who matters the most? What’s Tom supposed to think about this? Oh, hey baby. Here, give us a bite!”
“Daniel.”
“Don’t Daniel me, you prick!” Ceenta was suddenly thrust against the wall with enough force to shatter the chair he was sitting in. Daniel stopped suddenly and looked. “Did I do that?”
“Yeah, you did,” Ceenta said grinning as he slowly stood up. The door suddenly burst open. Don didn’t hesitate as he pointed his finger at Daniel. The force picked the young actor up off the floor and threw him against the far wall. He slumped to the floor in a heap, unconscious.
“Now why’d you have to go and do that?” asked Ceenta. Don looked at him incredulously. “We were having a good conversation.”
“It sounded a lot different from the other side of the door. Are you all right?”
“I’m fine. Let’s check on Daniel.” The two men moved quickly. Together, they picked Daniel up and put him back in bed. Don examined the young wizard and sighed.
“He’s fine. Just knocked out.”
“Good. Get a cool wash cloth and let’s see if we can bring him around.” Don went into the bathroom. A moment later he returned with a wash cloth. Ceenta took it and gently wiped Daniel’s face. The cooling effect of the cloth slowly brought Daniel back to consciousness. He opened his eyes and looked up into two worried faces.
“W-what happened?” he stammered.
“I got a little over protective,” said Don.
“A little?” Daniel said as he rubbed the back of his head.
“Sorry about that, but when it comes to Ceenta, I tend to act first and ask questions later.” Daniel took the wash cloth from Ceenta and wiped his own face vigorously.
“So I’m a vampire,” he finally stated.
“Yes, you are. As I was explaining before, there are many pluses.”
“And quite a few negatives,” Daniel said glumly.
“If you want to dwell on the negatives, I suppose there are a few drawbacks,” admitted Ceenta. “But, there are many, many pluses.”
“As in?”
“I’m three hundred and fifty years old.”
“Three hundred and twenty-six,” Don corrected. Ceenta looked at him and smiled.
“Ok, three hundred and twenty-six.” Daniel’s jaw fell open.
“You don’t look a day over twenty-five.”
“One of the pluses of being a vampire and there are many more. I’m sure you’ve noticed a heightened sense of hearing?” Daniel nodded. “You should also be able to sense your surroundings. I call it a heightened sense of awareness.” Once again, Daniel nodded. “That’s just the beginning of many, ah, enhancements that you will notice. After your first feeding, you’ll notice even more.”
“Feeding?” Ceenta looked at the floor, drew a deep breath and looked back up.
“You’ll start to get, ah, hungry. It’s more of a craving, but it will come soon. Your body needs live blood to keep itself alive.” Daniel opened his mouth and felt his teeth with his fingers. Ceenta chuckled. “Your fangs will appear with the craving. After you’ve fed a few times, you’ll be able to control them.”
“No more sunshine?”
“Myth.”
“No more garlic?
“Still another myth. You watch too many movies, Daniel.”
“What about mirrors and crosses and bats and coffins?”
“All myths,” chucked Ceenta.
“The only part I don’t like is the feeding,” added Don.
“You’re a vampire too?” Don nodded.
“We go into town about once a month to feed. Don’t let all the images from the movies cloud your mind, Daniel. Yes, we do bite people. We have to in order to survive. But we don’t kill. We only take a pint or so from each person.”
“How many people do you bite?”
“Usually only two. Our bodies use the blood much like humans use food. When our blood runs low, we have to feed. And that usually happens when our blood level is down a couple of pints.”
“Surely people don’t just let you bite them?”
“No they don’t. But vampires are very strong, both physically and mentally. After we feed, we carefully erase the memory from the human. They’re left feeling a bit tired from the loss of blood, but other than that, they’re fine.”
“You erase their memories?”
“Yes,” Ceenta said telepathically to Daniel. Daniel’s eyes widened.
“How did you do that?”
“Don’t talk to me, Daniel. Think to me,” Ceenta said once again telepathically.
“Ah, hello,” Daniel thought.
“Very good,” Ceenta answered.
“I’ll let you two play,” said Don. “I’m going to check on dinner, which should be ready in about thirty minutes. Why don’t you let the boy take a shower and give him some clothes. He’s got a cute body and all, but I’d rather see him with clothes on.” Daniel blushed and pulled the sheet up.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

A decrepit old man walked slowly down the hall of his villa in the northern part of the Czech Republic. He stopped at a closed door and took a deep breath. Turning the knob, he walked inside.
“There you are. We were beginning to wonder. What’s this all about, Malin?” The old man smiled slightly and sat down at the table joining the four Arabic men.
“I have a plan that will require your assistance,” he said.
“Your plans seem to backfire and get my people killed.” Malin’s expression turned from somber to angry. He slowly raised his gnarled hand and pointed it at the man. The man’s face immediately turned red. Perspiration broke out on his forehead. His hands slowly moved to his neck and encircled it. While everyone watched in horror, the man began choking himself. His knuckles turned white as he squeezed off his airway. Small choking sounds could be heard. The other three men sat and watched, unable to move from the fear that coursed through their veins. Malin smiled and lowered his hand. Suddenly, the man’s hands dropped to the table and he gasped for air.
“As I was saying, I have a plan that requires your assistance. Once this plan is complete, I have another one that will put millions of dollars in your pockets. But I want the first plan completed before we move on to the one with money.” The men around the table cautiously nodded in agreement. “Good. I have this thorn in my arse that needs to be plucked from existence. His name is Ceenta. He’ll be an easy target for a group of trained and well armed mercenaries. And, I’ll fund everything. All you need to do is hand pick about fifty of your best men. Then we’ll take him out.”

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Ceenta joined Don on the veranda. The two young men embraced and held each other. Don enjoyed the warmth and closeness. Ceenta reveled in the reassuring physical closeness. His conversation with Daniel left him feeling emotionally drained. As the breeze rustled through the trees, the two men turned to look out over their vast estate. They stood together for several minutes before either one talked.
“He’s a remarkable young man.” Ceenta turned and looked at his lover.
“Cute too.”
“Tom’s very lucky. You know we’ll have to send him home soon, probably tomorrow,” Don said.
“I still need to have the talk about protecting our world.” Don sighed and moved his arm up to Ceenta’s shoulder. He squeezed it lovingly.
“Let the boy recover. It’s not everyday you wake up a vampire.”
“That’s true, but we still need to have the talk. After all, that’s why I brought him here in the first place. Besides, he seems to be accepting and even embracing his new found powers and abilities.”
“That’ll change when he needs to feed,” said Don. “I still remember my first time.” Ceenta laughed.
“You drained that dude in like three minutes.”
“I didn’t mean to kill him, but the feeling that overwhelmed me was so powerful.”
“You mean, so sexual,” said Ceenta with a grin.
“Yeah, that too. But it was more powerful than that.”
“I don’t know. I couldn’t walk straight for a week. You just couldn’t get enough.”
“Well, you are a sexy man.” The two men embraced and kissed passionately. The sound of someone clearing their throat ended the moment.
“Excuse me, master. Young Daniel has finished his shower. I laid out some clothes for him and he should be ready shortly. Would you like dinner on the veranda?”
“Ah, Sarduri, thank you,” Ceenta said to his personal attendant. “That would be nice. Show Daniel out here when he’s ready. And break out a bottle of wine. A good Beaujolais would be excellent with Don’s roast Duck. Perhaps a bottle of Morgan.”
“Excellent choice, master,” Sarduri said. He bowed deeply and left the veranda.
“So what’s up with Starr?” asked Ceenta.
“He’s still at the flat we rented for him in London,” said Don as he turned to sit down on a lounge chair.
“School?” Ceenta asked as he joined Don on the lounge chair.
“Oh yes, and he’s continuing his acting courses at night.”
“Let’s go visit. I haven’t seen him in a month.”
“I talk with him every day. He’s doing great and I think a visit from you would lift his spirits. Sarduri’s brother is watching over him and tending to his needs. They get along well, even though Starr complains that Abbas makes him do his homework.” Ceenta laughed.
“At least he doesn’t have to deal with that ass of a father Malin anymore.”
“That’s true.”
“Has be gotten over losing the lead in the movie to Daniel?”
“I think so. You know, it might be a good idea if the two met.”
“And it might be a good idea if they didn’t,” mused Ceenta.
“Let’s ask him when we visit.”
“Good idea.”
“I still can’t get over Malin. The man gets pissed when Starr admits he’s gay and then he throws the kid to the street when he doesn’t get the part.”
“No one will ever understand Malin.”
A sudden burst of gunfire ripped through the peaceful countryside. Bullets riddled the veranda. When the hideous sound finally stopped, Don surveyed his surroundings. He looked in amazement. Flower pots had exploded in the assault. Their remnants littered the extravagant hand hewn stones of the veranda. But that wasn’t the only thing that ruined the lavish setting. Blood spattered the stones. Realization hit Don like a ton of bricks. He quickly looked at the love of his life. The expression on Ceenta’s face was one of wonder, horror and pain all mixed together. Don looked at Ceenta’s blood spattered shirt. The metal projectiles of death had found their mark. Ceenta’s white shirt was covered in blood. Don could make out the multiple entry points with the deep red life force liquid flowing freely and staining the linen fabric. As his lover fell back on to the floor, Don felt weak and slumped back on to the lounge chair. It was then that he saw his own blood covered shirt. Memories of the wonderful loving times he spent with Ceenta filled his head as his eyes grew heavy. The desire to wrap his arms around Ceenta in a loving embrace were overtaken by the ever increasing buzz of darkness. His vision narrowed and the world he knew slowly went black.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

















Chapter Eight
“A Personal Attack”

Daniel was just zipping up his jeans when he heard the sounds of gun fire. He ran as fast as he could toward Ceenta’s room. Two giant Samari warriors ducked into the room just in front of him. By the time he made it to the veranda, the two huge men and Sarduri were huddled over two men on the floor. Blood was everywhere. Daniel quickly moved over and looked down at Ceenta’s body. He openly gasped. Then he looked up and saw Don’s body sprawled out on the lounge chair. The emotions that ran through the young actor were rapid and raw … shock … extreme grief … and then … anger. The anger started slowly but continued to build until Daniel opened his mouth and hissed. Sarduri looked up and widened his eyes. Daniel’s eyes were blood red. His mouth was open and two menacing fangs gleamed in the rays of the setting sun.
“Calm yourself, Daniel,” he said quietly. Daniel hissed again and turned quickly to the stone wall. He intently studied the grounds for a moment then leapt over the wall. Sarduri and the warriors listened as scream after scream came from the woods. There was sporadic gun fire, but the screams continued. Each one ending the same as the other … as if abruptly cut off. Sarduri and the warriors lifted the bodies of their masters and carried them carefully to the master bedroom. They were placed on the master bed. Sarduri went to the bathroom and returned with a bowl of water and a soft cloth. He removed the bloody clothes and gently washed the blood from the skin. As he was finishing, Daniel appeared at the veranda door. Sarduri looked at the torn and tattered clothes he had only just laid out for the boy. He looked at the shirt that was covered in blood. Then he looked up into the eyes that were filled with tears.
“I am to assume that no one got away?” Daniel looked at him and nodded. “Good, then come. You have the power within you to save my masters’ lives. They have lost much blood. Even though their bodies strive to repair themselves, they need more blood. I think you know what needs to be done.” Daniel looked at the two pale bodies on the bed. His fangs slowly revealed themselves as he moved to the bedside. Sarduri smiled quietly to himself. Daniel leaned over and gently bit into Don’s neck. In mere seconds, the color returned to Don’s skin. Daniel moved to the other side of the bed and looked down at the man that had changed him forever. The long blond hair was still splattered with blood. The handsome face lay still. Daniel leaned over slowly and bit into Ceenta’s neck. He could feel his fangs slip effortlessly through the skin and sink deeply into the artery below. The blood pulsed through his fangs. He closed his eyes and waited for Ceenta to receive enough blood to save his life. There was movement and then Daniel felt an arm around his shoulders. He released his bite and looked down into the blond man’s smiling face. Ceenta tightened his arm and pulled Daniel into a tight hug.
“Thank you,” Ceenta whispered and then quickly looked over at Don who was smiling back at him. The two men joined hands. They were still very weak, but very much alive thanks to Daniel.
“We’re going to need some time to rest. Our bodies need to fully repair themselves. Sarduri, please get Daniel something to eat. He has given us both quite a bit of blood and I’m sure he needs the nourishment.” Sarduri bowed deeply. “And you, Daniel. I want you to try something for me.”
“What do you want me to try?”
“I want you to concentrate on Tom. He’s your partner, right?” Daniel nodded. “Then concentrate on him and call out to him in your mind. The power to speak with him telepathically is within you.”
“I miss him terribly.”
“Then call out to him. You can do this, Daniel. Believe in yourself.”

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Tom and Will couldn’t believe the tray of food that Governor Downing brought back. It was piled high with donuts, cakes, candy and two cans of Coke. He waddled over to the table and sat down.
“Gotta keep up my strength. I get a sinking spell in the afternoon,” he said as he shoved a whole donut into his mouth. “Ow, ought un ooh ell e out an ul?”
“What?” asked Daniel. Governor Downing swallowed the donut and washed it down by draining a whole can of Coke. He smiled and burped quietly.
“I said, now what can you tell me about Daniel?”
“He’s gone missing. Not a trace. Nothing. Can we go now?” said Tom disgustedly. The governor took another donut and shoved it into his mouth.
“Ought et. I eed or n fur a un.”
“Didn’t you momma tell you it’s impolite to speak with your mouth crammed full of donut?” Tom asked sternly.
“Oory.”
“Tom!” The word echoed across his mind and the voice was Daniel’s. Tom gasped and sat back in his chair.
“What?” asked Will. Tom quickly looked around the room and then back at Will.
“I just heard Daniel,” he whispered while the governor stuffed a pastry into his mouth.
“What? I didn’t hear anything.”
“Tom! It’s Daniel.” The telepathic message echoed in Tom’s mind.
“I’ve heard him again!” Tom shouted gleefully. The governor looked up.
“Ought id ooh aye?”
“Nothing. Just eat.” The governor smiled and happily chomped away.
“I’m not hearing anything, Tom. Maybe it’s all in your mind,” whispered Will.
“Tom! I’m trying to talk with you with my mind. Baby, please. Can you hear me?” Tom fell back into his chair again. “Talk to me, Tom. Use your mind.”
“Daniel? Is that you?” Tom thought to himself.
“You hear me! Thank God!” came the reply.
“Daniel?”
“Yes, it’s me!”
“Are you … are you dead?”
“No! I’m fine! Well, as fine as … well, I’m ok. Long story.”
“Where are you?”
“Scotland.”
“Daniel, what happened?”
“Long story, babe. I’m coming home. Can you meet me there? I’ll explain it all then.”
“I miss you so much. I’ve been so worried,” Tom thought back to Daniel. Will watched his friend and saw the expression of sheer joy change. Giant tears rolled down Tom’s face.
“Hey, bud. You ok?” Will asked. Tom nodded quickly.
“See you in a bit?” asked Daniel.
“Yes. In a bit,” Tom thought back quietly.
“Love you.”
“I love you with all my heart, Daniel.” Tom turned to look at Will.
“What the hell’s going on?” asked Will.
“Ooof, did I miss something. Sorry. Let me just tidy up this tray.” The governor wiped his mouth, drained the can of Coke, burped, smiled, then slid the tray to the side. “All right then. Let’s get this paper work filled out.”
“I’m sorry, governor. Suddenly, I’m not feeling well. I’ll just go home and stretch out for awhile,” Tom said quietly. The governor frowned.
“Now, now young, Tom. We all want to find Daniel, but you’re the only one that can give us somewhere to start. Can’t you just tough it out a bit?”
“No, I don’t think so.” Tom stood up. “I’m feeling quite nauseous.”
“We have medical personnel on staff. Let me call …”
“I’d really rather be at home right now,” Tom said firmly. “Will, can you take me home? I’m feeling very weak.”
“Sure, Tom.” Will stood up and took his friend by the arm. “Come on then.”
“Please come back as soon as you can, Tom,” the governor said as he reached for another pastry.
Tom and Will made their way down the hall and stopped at the entry. Will pulled out his wand and a flick later the two boys were back at Daniel and Tom’s flat.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Starr sat quietly studying his text book on directing. Abbas had insisted he finish his homework before heading out to the market for some shopping. Starr flipped the page of the text book and sighed. He knew this material. He had studied it on his own, but the class was a required course. He flipped to the next page. His class would be in just a half hour, but since the school was just two blocks away, he could easily walk there in five minutes. He munched on a slice of pizza and wrote a few notes.
The door burst open shattering the silence. Starr looked up but before he had time to even finished chewing his bite of pizza, three men disguised in masks grabbed him and pulled him to the floor. He struggled but the three men overpowered him. The next thing he saw caused him to fear for his life. The shiny blade of a knife was held up to his face.
“If you want to keep that pretty face, you’ll do exactly as you’re told,” the man behind the mask said coldly. Starr was frozen in fear. The men roughly pulled him to his feet and dragged him out the door. He tried to walk but the men were too forceful. He stumbled down the stairs and out onto the sidewalk. A car was waiting. The men pushed him to the back door, opened it and shoved him inside.
“Hello, son. Nice of you to drop by.” Starr looked into the bloodshot eyes of his father and gasped. The old man’s fist connected with Starr’s face and sent him flying back against the window. “Faggot!”

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Daniel took the last bit of roast duck. Sarduri and the household staff had cleaned the veranda and there was no trace of the violence that occurred there just a few hours ago. He finished off the glass of Beaujolais and wiped his mouth with the linen napkin. Daniel sighed a contented sigh.
“Is there anything else I can get you, young master?”
“Oh no. This was wonderful, Sarduri.”
“It was Master Don who prepared the duck. I find it to be delicious but a bit rich for my blood,” commented Sarduri as he picked up Daniel’s plate. “The masters would like to see you now. You will find them in the bedroom.”
“Thanks.” Sarduri bowed deeply and left. Daniel stood and walked over to the stone wall at the edge of the veranda. As he looked out across the estate, his mind was filled with questions. When the anger consumed him earlier it was like he was along for the ride. Sure, it was his body, but it was like something else was in control. Daniel could only watch in horror as man after man was literally ripped to shreds. Their screams were still echoing in Daniel’s mind. He looked down to the pool some forty feet below. Had he actually jumped off the veranda? Why wasn’t he hurt? Was it instinct that took over? He reached up and rubbed his finger across his teeth. He willed the fangs to appear and they slowly slid down. Daniel ran his finger from the top to the very sharp point. Is this a dream? Daniel knew there were only two people with the answers … Don and Ceenta. He turned and walked into the master bedroom.
“Daniel, how was my duck?” asked Don. Daniel looked at the two handsome men sitting up in bed and couldn’t help but grin.
“You duck was excellent, Don. Thank you,” Daniel said as he walked over and took a seat in the chair beside the bed. “Did you two eat?”
“Sarduri brought us some broth. I’m afraid that’s all our bodies can deal with right now. The blood you gave us is busy healing wounds. A heavy meal like roast duck would cause the digestive system to demand too much blood. So we thought it best to just have some broth,” explained Don.
“Daniel,” said Ceenta with a very serious tone. “I want to thank you very much for saving our lives. We are forever indebted to you.”
“You did the same for me, so let’s just call it even.”
“And he’s a righteous man too. I’m liking him more and more,” Don said to Ceenta.
“Daniel, there is something we need to talk about, but I am too weak. Don and I would like for you to go home and see Tom. We both know you miss him.”
“I do miss him terribly.”
“Then go, Daniel. It will take both of us at least a day to fully recover. Go see the man you love,” Don said. Ceenta grinned.
“Yeah, get out of here. In fact, come back tomorrow and bring Tom with you. I want to hear about what happened in the woods.”
“Ah, I don’t know if Tom is going to be ready to hear about that,” Daniel said shyly.
“Don’t worry about that. We’ll cross that bridge when we come to it.”
“Ok, but, ah, I’ve got a more pressing problem.”
“What’s that?” asked Ceenta.
“I don’t have my wand.”
“You don’t need your wand,” chuckled Ceenta.
“That’s right,” added Don. “Just think where you want to be and you’ll be there.”
“One of my new powers I presume?” asked Daniel. Ceenta nodded. “So I just think about it and it happens?”
“Well, you have to think of the place, picture it in your mind and then project your desire to be there. Just concentrate on your desire to be there. It’ll happen. Trust me,” said Ceenta.
“You can do it, Daniel,” Don said seriously. “Think about what you’ve already done. There’s nothing stopping you but self doubt. So, stop mucking around and give it a whirl.” Daniel closed his eyes and pictured his and Tom’s flat. He pictured Tom sitting on the couch waiting for him. He missed Tom terribly and before he knew what happened, he was standing in front of the couch looking at the boy he loved.
“What happened to my baked Ziti?” Daniel said with a grin. Tom’s eyes flashed up and he was immediately in Daniel’s arms. Their reunion embrace was bone crushing. Will stood off to one side and grinned. Tom was kissing Daniel all over his face. Daniel was kissing Tom right back.
“It got burned up,” Will said when the reunion had settled down some what.
“Huh?” asked Daniel.
“Your Ziti got burned up.”
“Figured as much. How are you, Will?”
“Much better now that you’re back. You’re bugger of a boyfriend has been driving me crazy.”
“I have not,” said Tom indignantly. He kissed Daniel again, then looked back over at Will. “I’ve just been worried to death is all.” Then turning back to Daniel, he continued. “And just where in the hell have you been? I’ve been worried sick. You have no idea how crazy I’ve been. People have been calling. We had to watch a governor stuff his fat face with donuts. And what’s this about a Russian assassin?”
“Whoa, whoa. Easy, babe. I’ll explain it all. But I think we need to sit down. This is a long story.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~





Chapter Nine
“Starr”

The car screeched to a halt. A rather large man in the front seat got out and opened the rear door. The driver attended to the other rear door. The large man grabbed Starr by the arm and roughly pulled him out. The driver politely opened the door for Malin. The old man stood and walked around the rear of the car. He approached his son.
“Take him to the dungeon. Chain him up and give him fifteen lashes,” he said to the large man.
“As you wish, sir,” the man said. He jerked Starr’s arm and pulled him toward the door.
“Father! Why are you doing this?” yelled Starr. “Father! Please!” Malin stood at the rear of the car and listened as his son’s pleas slowly reduced in volume until they were nonexistent. He chuckled to himself and turned to the driver.
“Give him a hand and make sure the boy learns some respect,” he sneered. The driver nodded and shortly disappeared through the same door.
“No son of mine will be a poof. And no son of mine fails. I blame his weakness on his mother,” Malin said to himself as he spat on the ground. He smiled to himself as he remembered her screams. The old man made his way to the door and then down to the dungeon. He walked through a stone archway and into a dimly lit room. His son was chained to the wall and the large man was just getting out a long leather whip. Malin pulled up a chair and sat down. The large man, whip in hand, turned to Malin. Malin nodded for him to begin. The driver approached the youth and ripped the shirt off his back. The driver stood back and smiled. The large man released the coiled up whip. He snapped it a few times in preparation. As Malin watched, the man swung the whip across Starr’s back. He screamed out in pain. The man prepared for another.
“Harder,” directed Malin. The man smiled and swung the whip again. This time, the leather drew blood. It splattered across the room with one droplet landing on Malin’s cheek. As he gently wiped it off, he smiled an evil smile. The whip slashed across Starr’s back again and again until all fifteen lashes had been delivered. Malin reached for a bowl on the table. He grabbed a handful of salt from it and walked over to his son.
“You’re a poof. You take it up the ass. No son of mine would ever do that!” Malin yelled into Starr’s sobbing face. He took the salt and cupped it in both hands. Then he threw it into the gapping wounds on his son’s back. Starr screamed out in agony. Malin pushed his hands against Starr’s back and slammed him against the stone wall. He rubbed his salt encrusted hands up and down Starr’s back reveling in the screams.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

“Attacks of this nature are unheard of!’ bellowed Governor Downing. “Who did it? Why did they do it? And most importantly, why are all the attackers dead … and not just dead, but mutilated. That pompous ass Ceenta thinks he’s so all high and mighty. I’ve got news for him. The other governors and I won’t stand for it. He knows what happened and he’s going to tell me!” The governor had worked himself into a frenzy and was red in the face. He glared at his five law enforcement officials. “Go to Mister Ceenta’s home and find out what happened,” he said sarcastically. “If humans are involved in this, we’re in for a long drawn out debate with government officials and I don’t want to even think about that. I’ve had it up to here with that bugger and his American boy toy.” Several of the law enforcement officials shifted uncomfortably from foot to foot. “Just because he say’s he’s inherited the responsibility doesn’t put him above the law. I’ve always wondered if that story was just made up to give his poor excuse for a family a bit of stature. It’s bullshit if you ask me. So go pay a little visit to Mister high and mighty. I hereby extend all the authority of the regional governors to each of you. You have the governors’ permission and authorization to use whatever means and resources are necessary to find out what happened. If blood gets spilled in the process, then so be it!” The law enforcement officials nodded and left the room. As the door closed behind them, their conversation took on a new tone.
“Homophobic bastard!” said Derrick. “I can’t believe he said that. He knows I’m with Paul!”
“Easy, mate,” said Keith as he put his arm around Derrick. “The old bugger really whipped himself into a stitch. Just over look him.”
“You’re right, Keith,” chimed in Lee. “But we still have a job to do.”
“But,” protested Derrick. “I can’t stand to hear him be so, so degrading.”
“Look, mate. There’s nothing we can do about his demeanor or his intake of donuts,” said Ben. “All we can do now is just go and find out what happened. And, for the record, I happen to believe in Ceenta’s inheritance.”
“I do too,” said Donnie. “Listen up, mates. The responsibility of overseeing the magical world was bestowed on Ceenta’s family by Merlin himself. I don’t know what you blokes think, but I believe in the story. Hell, we have to believe in something. Merlin’s long gone for fuck’s sake. Somebody has to make sure that our world and the human world are kept separate. I don’t know about the rest of you, but I don’t pleasure the thought of being pressed to death.”

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Ceenta and Don relaxed on lounge chairs on the veranda. They were enjoying the noon day sun and soaked it up while wearing very short shorts and nothing else. A mere twenty four hours before, the same veranda had been riddled with bullets. Sarduri had seen to it that there was no evidence left. It was the same veranda his masters had come to love and he enjoyed being able to provide a place of solitude to them.
The two men looked each other in the eyes. The love flowed between them like the flow of water over Niagara Falls. The sleep their bodies required to repair themselves was complete. The blood supplied by Daniel had saved their lives, but it also contained the hormones of a sixteen year old. Both men, at their prime age of twenty-five, found themselves in an uncontrollable lust. With the sun at its peak over the vast estate, Don’s desire overpowered him. He suddenly got up from the lounge chair and stood before Ceenta. He stood tall and proud. His skimpy shorts hid nothing of his throbbing sexual desire. Ceenta gazed up at him.
“I want you,” Don said quietly, but firmly.
“And I want you,” Ceenta answered as he lowered his shorts to reveal his engorged manhood. Don straddled the lounge chair and lowered himself. As his lips wrapped around what he most desired, five men suddenly appeared on the veranda.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

“The last thing I remembered was this really ugly man with a scar on his face pointing his wand at me and saying something about the boy who lived. After that, I can’t remember anything until I woke up,” explained Daniel. “At first I tried to open my eyes, but the light was way too intense. Then I tried to move, but I was hit with a pain I have never experienced before. It was, well, I can’t describe it. I remember calling out to you, Tom. I wanted you so bad.” Tom squeezed Daniel’s hand.
“I heard you. You said ‘Tom! Where are you? Help me, Tom! I’m scared. I’m so scared.’ I was sitting here on the couch. We had just heard about Nickoli Pertrosika from Will’s father. He’s a KGB assassin and he’s the one that supposedly took you. I was thinking the worst and Will wrapped me in his arms and told he that you would be ok. That’s when I heard your voice in my head.”
“I was scared to death, Tom. I had no idea where I was. I couldn’t open my eyes and I couldn’t move. I called out to you and then I passed out.” Tom’s arm had been around Daniel’s shoulder from the beginning. Tom tightened his grip on Daniel and pulled his young lover closer.
“It’s ok now. You’re here. You’re ok. Just take your time.” Daniel smiled and relaxed into the hug. Will watched the interaction between the two boys and grew envious of his friend’s close relationship.
“The next time I woke up, I panicked. Someone was coming. And suddenly, I found myself on the ceiling looking down on the room.”
“W-what?!?” stammered Tom.
“I was on the ceiling!”
“Are you sure this wasn’t a dream?” asked Will as he scooted to the edge of his seat.
“It was no dream. It was very real and very scary.” Daniel paused a moment seemingly recalling the memory in his mind.
“What happened next?” asked Tom.
“Baby, I want you to take a deep breath. Try to relax and have an open mind. What I’m about to tell you is about as unbelievable as pigs flying, but, trust me, it’s the truth.” Tom took a deep breath and let it out slowly.
“Ok, Daniel. I’m ready. I love you, baby. Tell me what happened.” Daniel collected himself, sighed deeply and plunged forward.
“I lost a lot of blood when that bugger blew up the shower. I had a lot of cuts all over my body. Some of those cuts were very severe. I lost a lot of blood. In fact, I lost so much blood that I was on the verge of death. There was a man there that saved me.” Daniel took another deep breath. “He gave me the blood necessary to save my life, but at the same time, he ended my natural life.”
“I don’t understand, Daniel,” said Tom. “What do you mean he ended your natural life?”
“He bit me, Tom. He sunk his fangs into my neck and gave me the blood I needed but at the same time, he, he, ah, he, turned me into, into a, a vampire.” Daniel looked down at his lap and waited. It seemed to be hours, but in reality was only seconds before Will spoke up.
“So, what you’re saying is,” started Will. “You lost a lot of blood and a vampire bit you and gave you enough blood to save your life but at the same time he turned you into a vampire.” Daniel nodded slowly.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The entire weight of Starr’s body hung by the wrist shackles that held him securely in place. The metal was slowly cutting into his skin, but it went unnoticed. The angry slashes across his back were no longer bleeding, but the skin with raw and swollen. That too went unnoticed. A rat scurried across the floor and disappeared into a crack at the base of the wall. The single torch flickered in its mount casting strange shadows around the dank and musty room. This too went unnoticed. Starr’s head hung low. Its smooth, creamy skin stained from recent tears. The usually soft black hair hung down in strings held together by dried sweat and blood. The tattered remains of his shirt draped either side of his tortured torso. All of this went unnoticed because Starr was unconscious. He was in the only place that could provide him an escape from the horrific acts of his father.
The heavy wooden door creaked loudly as it swung open and smashed against the wall. Starr’s brief respite had come to and end. He struggled to regain his footing and relieve the intense burning around his wrists. The sound of solitary footsteps approaching set off alarm bells in his head. The voice that accompanied the footsteps sent a chill down his spine.
“No son of mine fails. No son of mine sucks dick. Therefore, you must be no son of mine.” Malin spat the words at Starr with the venom of a cobra. “You make me sick.” Malin grabbed Starr’s shoulder and spun the boy around. “You hear me?!?!” Malin screamed. Spittle landed on Starr’s face while the old man glared at him. The father released his son and turned as if it leave. He suddenly whirled around and pointed his wand.
“Adflictatio!” The pain of the curse streaked through Starr’s body like a bolt of lightening. It’s not a surface pain, but an all encompassing pain the radiates out from the very center of every molecule of the body. The intensity is indescribable. Men have died from being under the curse for mere seconds. Malin sneered at the twitching body of his son. As the released the curse, Starr once again fell thankfully into unconsciousness.
“You’re not my son,” Malin muttered. “But you do provide some nice entertainment.” He spat on the floor then turned and left.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The five men stood and could only stare at the scene before them. Some looked away from embarrassment. Some looked on intently. Finally, Derrick spoke up.
“Ah, excuse the interruption. We’re the enforcement team from the regional governor’s office.” Don slowly lifted off Ceenta. Derrick gasped at the size of Ceenta’s most intimate parts. Don moved back from the lounge chair and stood to face the men. They took in his nakedness and his hardness. Don’s expression was anything but kind. “I’m really sorry to have interrupted.” The words barely left Derrick’s lips when two giant Samari warriors appeared at the door. They immediately placed themselves between their masters and the enforcement men with swords drawn. Sarduri was right behind them with robes for his masters.
“I must assume there is some importance to this intrusion since you’ve come unannounced,” said Ceenta with a growing rage in his voice.
“I-I’m so sorry for the, ah, interruption,” Derrick started. “Governor Downing told us to come here directly. I’m afraid we made the assumption that you knew we were coming. I, ah, we are deeply sorry to invade on your privacy.”
“Downing? That pompous fat arse bastard. I should have known.” Ceenta tied the knot on his robe and put his arm around Don. “What does the poorest excuse for a governor want this time?”
“Ah, it’s about the attack, sir,” said Donnie.
“Who are you?” Ceenta said glaring into Donnie’s eyes.
“I’m Donnie, sir. This is Derrick, Keith, Ben and Aaron. I assure you, sir, we meant no harm and humbly respect your inheritance.” Ceenta relaxed his angry stance a bit. “We were sent to find out all we can about the recent attack on your home.” Donnie suddenly blushed, stammered a bit, but then continued. “The governors are afraid humans were somehow involved.” Ceenta glanced at the source of Donnie’s blush only to see Don leaning against the stone wall with his robe wide open exposing his throbbing hardness.
“Don! Cover yourself. You’re getting these men all hot and bothered.” Don smiled and very slowly moved the edge of his robe to cover himself.
“Sorry, Ceenta, but we have to ask about the attack,” said Keith. Sarduri suddenly appeared at the doorway and summoned Ceenta.
“Excuse me,” he said and turned to Sarduri. “What is it?”
“Master, I just heard from my brother. Starr is missing. From the looks of the flat, it seems he was taken forcefully.” Ceenta took a deep breath and nodded his head. Then he turned back to the men.
“I am sorry gentlemen but this conversation will have to take place later. I’ve just received some very disturbing news that requires my immediate attention.” Ceenta turned to Don and told him telepathically about Starr. Don immediately tensed and moved over next to his lover.
“I’m very sorry, sir, but we must insist on any information you have,” said Ben. Ceenta glared at the youth.
“Tell the slimy slithering fat arsed governor that we will be in touch. Now, you may leave the way you came or I can assist you.”
“But …” Ben stopped in mid sentence and smiled slightly. “You know we’ll be put on troll assignment for coming back without any answers.”
“Tell the good governor that I will come to see him personally after I attend to this pressing matter. That should keep you in his good graces. If not, give him this.” Ceenta snapped his fingers and a box of Krispy Kreme Donuts appeared on the veranda floor in front of the law enforcement officials.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~




























Chapter Ten
“And the Plot Thickens”

After Daniel nodded to Will, he held his breath while waiting for a reaction from the one person who mattered the most. They had been sitting on the couch together and holding hands, but at the acknowledgement that he was a vampire, he felt Tom’s hand at first loosen and then pull away. Daniel tried to look at Tom, but Tom held his gaze on the coffee table in front of him.
“So, do you, like, have fangs?” asked Will. Tom stood up abruptly and ran from the room. Daniel sat quietly and watched as Tom disappeared down the hall. “Sorry mate. I didn’t mean to upset him,” Will said softly. Daniel’s eyes glistened with unshed tears.
“I had a hard time with it too.” Will moved from his chair over to the couch, sat down beside Daniel and wrapped his arm around him.
“It’ll be fine. Tom will come ‘round. You’ll see,” Will said reassuring his friend. A big hot tear rolled down Daniel’s face.
“And you’re ok with this?” he sobbed to Will.
“I think it’s bloody brilliant! I always thought vampires were a myth.”
“No myth. I assure you.”
“Look here mate, Tom will understand. Trust me.” Daniel looked into Will’s eyes. He wanted to believe him, he really did.
“He’s the only one that really matters,” Daniel said softly.
“Daniel.” The soft voice came from the hall. The two boys immediately looked up to see Tom. His eyes were red and swollen. Daniel stood up quickly, but hesitated to run to Tom’s arms.
“Tom,” Daniel said quietly. Tom stood quietly for a moment.
“What does this change?” he finally asked.
“Nothing. It changes nothing. We can still get a sun tan together and you can still cook with lots of garlic.” Tom took a few tentative steps toward Daniel and stopped.
“What about the drinking blood stuff?” Tom said so quietly Daniel barely heard him.
“That’s only about once a month, so I’m told. I haven’t had to do it yet,” Daniel answered equally as softly.
“Do you go crazy? Do you get drunk with blood lust? Could you hurt me?” Tom snapped. “Do I have to worry about getting bitten every time I’m with you?!?” As the words left his lips Ceenta and Don appeared. Ceenta turned to Tom and smiled.
“No, you don’t, however, if he ever does you will find it to be the most erotic moment of your life.” Ceenta walked over to Tom and bowed. “Please allow me to introduce myself. I am Ceenta and this is my life partner Don.” Don joined in the bow before Tom who was mesmerized by the young men’s beauty. Yes, beauty. Their handsome faces and well toned bodies surpassed the definition of handsome. They were, simply, beautiful men. Daniel walked over and took Ceenta by the arm.
“Tom, this is the man that saved my life,” he said carefully. The realization that Ceenta was the man who bit Daniel slammed into him like a freight train.
“You did this! You changed the man I love! This, this is all your fault!” Tom ripped out his wand and before anyone had time to react, he screamed out the curse.
“Adflictatio!” Ceenta stood and looked at Tom. There was no falling to the floor and groveling in pain. There was … nothing. “Adflictatio!” Tom screamed out again. Still, there was absolutely no reaction from Ceenta.
“Tom, please try to understand that I had no choice. If I hadn’t done what I did, Daniel wouldn’t be here,” he patiently explained. Tom fell to his knees in frustration. “Your spells and curses can not harm me, nor can they harm Daniel.” Ceenta knelt down and looked Tom face to face. “It’s not as bad as it seems. True, Daniel is different, but at the same time, he is the same person you fell in love with.” Tears were freely running down Tom’s face. He looked up at Daniel who also was awash in emotion.
“I love you, Tom,” Daniel said sobbing. “I would never hurt you.” Tom clutched his wand so tightly his knuckles were white.
“Itioare home!” Tom shouted and disappeared with a pop.
“NO!” screamed Daniel as he fell to his knees. “TOM! Don’t leave me!”

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The decrepit old man made his way down the corridor once again dreading having to deal with the men who call themselves warriors against religious persecution when in fact, they were simply terrorists. The suppressed anger at their failure in the attack on his nemesis’s home grew stronger as he approached the door. When he turned the knob, the anger had renewed him, flowed through him and gave him unwavering strength. He swung the door open and entered the room. The hostile attitude he received earlier seemed to be gone. Before him sat five men humbled by their team’s failure. However, as they sat down the hostility returned with a vengeance.
“Dead! All fifty of them!” one man screamed out as Malin sat down. Another stood and joined in the affray.
“We lost fifty of our very best men. Their bodies were mutilated! We couldn’t even identify who was who! You sent us into a trap!”
“Sit,” Malin said calmly. The man remained obstinate. Malin looked him directly in the eye. “Sit.”
“I am not a dog for you to command!” Malin snapped his fingers. The crack of thunder shook the room. The man slowly sat down.
“I am who I am and I command who I wish. Those that defy me, perish a most painful death.” The silence in the room was palpitating. “To make sure we understand each other …” Malin looked at the man who stood against him. He raised a gnarled finger and pointed. “Avada Kedevra!” Malin shouted. A sharp green light streamed from Malin’s pointed finger and struck the man squarely in the chest. He fell back in his chair and hit the floor hard. A man jumped up to check on his friend. He checked the pulse and gasped.
“H-he’s dead.”
“Sit, or you will be as he.” The man slowly sat back down at the table. “Now, let me make this clear. There are certain things I expect and in return for those things are more riches than your meager minds can comprehend. Simply put, do as I say and you will have a fortune to fund whatever war you are waging.” The men all but forgot the body on the floor beside the table and smiled happily at the prospect. “But!” The men suddenly paled under the harsh tone of Malin’s voice. “Defy me and you will join your friend on the floor.” The men agreed quickly … mostly from fear, but also from the greed that comes with the prospect of large sums of cash.
“What would you have us do?”
“Ah, now we get down to the plan. It’s really quite simple. We take what is most precious to men of wealth and demand a ransom from its return. It’s called kidnapping. Only in this case, we are going to kidnap the children of oil ministers. To be precise, ministers that are members of OPEC. Once they are under our control, we will have them reduce oil production. The world will be at our knees and will pay handsomely for every barrel they so desperately need.” The four men murmured amongst themselves and excitedly agreed that it was an excellent plan.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Tom threw himself on his bed. He was so confused. On one hand, he loved Daniel with every fiber of his being. On the other hand, the thought of Daniel biting him on the neck was just too much to even imagine. Giant gut wrenching sobs left the young actor sprawled on his bed, clutching the pillow with all his might. It zapped him of his energy and he slowly slipped into a deep sleep.
“Tom,” the voice said quietly. “Tom, it’s me. Please, Tom. It’s Daniel.” Tom’s eyes snapped open and he looked up into the beautiful green eyes of the man he loved.
“Oh, Daniel!” Tom sobbed as he wrapped his arms around his lover. Tom held Daniel tight and was reassured by the warm tight hug. He finally relaxed and laid back on the bed.
“Tom, you’ve got to believe that I would never hurt you.”
“I know you wouldn’t, but it still scares me.”
“Let me show you how much I love you,” Daniel whispered huskily. Tom smiled and felt a stirring in his boxers. Their lips met in a loving kiss that quickly turned into a kiss of physical need. Without ever breaking the kiss, Daniel moved onto the bed and laid down on top of Tom. They ground into each other, feeling each other’s hardness. The kiss ended with both boys breathing hard. Tom buried his face into Daniel’s neck and breathed in his lover’s scent. It was intoxicating. Daniel suddenly lifted himself up and sat back on Tom’s crotch. He quickly unbuttoned Tom’s shirt and pulled it open. Daniel slid down and raking his tongue over Tom’s left nipple. Tom gasped at the erotic feeling. He barely noticed his pants being opened and the zipper purring as it lowered. Daniel moved his tongue bath lower. Tom was breathing in passionate gasps and he held his breath as he felt his hardness slip smoothly into Daniel’s mouth. Captivated by his lust, Tom threw his hands back against the headboard. A sharp pain stabbed into his right forefinger causing him to jerk. He pulled his hand down in front of his face and looked. Daniel looked up as well. A small cut on Tom’s finger oozed a trickle of blood. Tom chuckled to himself.
“It’s just a little cut.” He looked down at Daniel who was watching the trickle of blood with rapt attention. As Tom continued to look at his lover he noticed a strange expression come over Daniel’s face. Suddenly, Daniel’s eyes turned red and he hissed sharply. Daniel opened his mouth wide and hissed again. That was when Tom saw the razor sharp fangs. He immediately tried to get away but Daniel held him tight. Faster than lightning, Daniel moved up and looked Tom in the face. The close up view of the fangs sent Tom into a panic. Before the scream left his lips, Tom felt the fangs sink deeply into his neck.
“NO!!” he screamed. Tom sat straight up in bed. He was drenched in sweat. He quickly looked around his bedroom. Much to his relief, he was alone. His hand moved tentatively toward his neck. He rubbed the skin and found it to be smooth. No bite marks. Tom sighed a sigh of relief. The nightmare had been just that … a nightmare. He eased back on to the pillow and took a deep breath. Yes, it had been a nightmare, but it could have happened. That possibility scared Tom to death. That possibility kept him separated from the one person he loved. It was a separation that agonized Tom. He slowly fell back into a restless sleep.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Ceenta gently put his hand on Daniel’s shoulder. The tears were rolling down Daniel’s face. Will fought his instincts to run to Daniel. He watched as the tall handsome blond swooped Daniel into his arms. Don walked over to Will.
“I’m Don.”
“Will, pleased me meet you.”
“Your friend has been through a lot in the last couple of days. He’s going to need a really good friend to be strong for him,” Don said.
“There’s not a whole lot I wouldn’t do for Daniel or Tom.” Don smiled and looked the teen up and down.
“You’re cute. Gotta boyfriend?” Will blushed.
“Girlfriend actually. I’m straight.” Don didn’t miss a beat.
“Sure you’re not just saying that. I’m not coming on to you. I’m devoted to Ceenta and he’s devoted to me.”
“I’m glad you have a loving relationship, but I really am straight.”
“That’s a shame. There’s this handsome young man I know that’s single.” Will chuckled politely.
“No, thanks anyway. I’m quite happy with the ladies.” Ceenta and Daniel walked toward Don and Will. Ceenta’s arm was wrapped around Daniel in a reassuring manner.
“Don, we’ve got to get to Starr and I’d like Daniel to go with us,” Ceenta said. Don nodded.
“Where are you going?” asked Will.
“We have to right a wrong,” explained Ceenta. Daniel looked Will.
“Come with us, Will,” Daniel asked.
“I don’t know if that’s a good idea,” Ceenta said softly. Daniel turned and looked Ceenta in the eyes.
“He’s a damn fine wizard. Best I know. He’s even better than I am with spells and especially curses.”
“Ok, but I’m point man on this trip. You guys follow my lead. It could get ugly.”
“What’s going on?” asked Will hesitantly.
“Our friend Starr has been forcibly taken by his father Malin,” explained Ceenta.
“Malin!?!”
“You know of Malin?”
“My father told me that Malin had some connections to some KGB assassin.”
“What?” asked Ceenta.
“That’s what dad told us.” Ceenta took a deep breath and looked at Don.
“That explains why that arse was so mean to Daniel.” Ceenta looked at Will and then at Daniel. “You don’t have to worry about the man ever again. Right now though, we need to get to Starr. I suspect he’s at Malin’s estate. We’ll have to be careful. I’ve tried to contact Starr by telepathy but he doesn’t answer. That means he’s either unconscious or he’s being held somewhere that’s shielded.”
“Sounds like we’re wasting time,” said Will. “Do you know where Malin’s estate is?” Ceenta nodded.
“Don, you take Will. I’ll travel with Daniel.” Don nodded. Seconds later they were all standing in front of Malin’s home.






























Chapter Eleven
“Revelations”

The grand home stood ominously in front of them. It’s once gleaming white marble walls, were now dingy and covered in vines. Daniel immediately sensed the evil that seemed to pulse through the air. Bad things had happened here and bad things leave their mark. The home appeared vacant. The gardens and lawn were unkempt and there were no vehicles in the drive. Daniel watched Ceenta close his eyes and take it all in. He watched as the years of experience came into play. Daniel knew that Ceenta was using his vampire awareness. Although Daniel’s experience with this talent was barely at the novice level, he was able to feel the evil that permeated the very air that he breathed. As Ceenta’s eyes opened, he started toward a side door without a word. Don was at his side.
Will and Daniel followed them through the door. Will’s wand was drawn and he gripped it tightly in anticipation. It was cool and damp inside as they made their way down the stone staircase. The air smelled of mold … rank and rancid. And Daniel noticed the evil in the air had stepped up a notch or two. Flickering torches on the wall illuminated their way while casting strange shadows on the stone walls. Will looked over at Daniel.
“Get your wand out,” he whispered. Daniel smiled.
“Don’t need it anymore. Vampire power,” Daniel whispered back. Will raised an eyebrow in skepticism but then grinned and nodded. After a few more steps he once again turned to Daniel.
“Do we know where we’re going?” Daniel shrugged then spoke to Ceenta.
“Ceenta. Do you know where Starr is?” Daniel asked whispering. Ceenta turned and smiled.
“I sense his presence. Not much longer now.” Daniel nodded and they continued down the staircase. The stone steps were smooth as if they had been in use for thousands of years. Daniel wondered silently about the people who had walked the steps before him. A few moments later they came to a door. Ceenta gently put his hand on the molded wood and closed his eyes. Seconds later his eyes snapped open and his expression turned to anger. He tried to open the door, but it was locked tight. Ceenta stood back a few feet from the door and raised his hand. He pointed a single finger. The door creaked loudly, shuddered slightly, then fell back onto the floor with a resounding slam, sending up a cloud of dust in the process. Ceenta quickly entered the room followed by Don, Daniel and finally Will. They raced across the room to the unconscious figure hanging from shackles. Ceenta took a deep breath. He looked at the figure’s tortured back. The welts oozed blood and traces of salt clung to the torn tissue. Don broke down in tears. Ceenta reached up to open the shackles.
“Wait a tick, I’ll help,” offered Daniel. “Come on, Will.” The two boys gently held Starr around his waist and lifted him, easing the pressure on the shackles. Ceenta quickly opened them and held Starr’s arms as they carefully lowered him to the floor. He moaned in agony and Don’s sobs became even worse. They put Starr on his side to prevent his back from being injured anymore. Don moved quickly. He sat down on the floor and held Starr’s head in his lap.
“Oh my God no! I’m so sorry, Starr!” Don sobbed loudly. A noise from across the room grabbed everyone’s attention. Ceenta looked up and saw the evil sneer on the man’s face and the wand pointing threateningly.
“My master thought you might try something stupid like this. He left orders for me to keep you here until he returns. He wants to deal with you himself,” the man said coldly.
“Rigescere!” yelled Will. The man suddenly stiffened and fell to the floor. Ceenta turned and looked at Will with wonder. The young man stood in a defensive stance, his wand still pointed in the direction of the unconscious man.
“Remind me to never question taking you along again,” he said with a grin. Will relaxed a bit and smiled back then walked over to the man. He grabbed some rope from the corner and tied him up securely. He walked back over and watched as Ceenta knelt down beside Starr. Don looked at his lover with tear stained and pleading eyes. Ceenta smiled gently and nodded slightly at his love. Then he carefully and methodically passed his hands over Starr’s back.
“Medeor,” he spoke softly. Right before everyone’s eyes, the wounds slowly started to disappear. “Medeor,” Ceenta spoke again softly. Moments later there were no signs of injury on Starr’s back. The boy slowly regained consciousness and rolled over.
Will got his first look at Starr and openly gasped at the boy’s beauty. His heart immediately went out to him. Will dropped to his knees and gently put his hand on Starr’s chest.
“You’re safe now,” Will spoke quietly. Tears rolled down Starr’s face as he looked at the people who had saved him. Don was still sobbing quietly.
“Don, it’s ok now. Please don’t cry,” Starr said. Will stood up and offered his hand. Starr took it and Will pulled him to his feet. Starr turned and pulled Don to his feet and then took him into his arms and hugged him fiercely. Ceenta stumbled slightly getting up and Will steadied him by grabbing his arm.
“That always drains me,” he said slowly.
“I’ve never seen anything like that before,” remarked Will. Ceenta grinned.
“Old family secret.”
“I don’t mean to break up this party, but we should be leaving as soon as possible.” Ceenta looked at Daniel and nodded.
“Don, time to get out of here,” Ceenta said to his lover who was still embracing Starr. Daniel and Will led the group up the staircase … Daniel with his vampire awareness at full tilt and Will with his wand clutched tightly. Don and Ceenta followed behind helping a very weak Starr.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The long flowing linen curtains stirred slightly in the breeze. They lightly grazed the hand polished marble floor. It was dark in the room, but the gold fixtures glinted ever so slightly in the light of the full moon shining brightly outside. At the center of the room was a large ornate canopy bed. Sheer linen covered its frame and protected the very small figure that was sleeping contentedly, snuggled down in the silk sheets.
The Algerian climate was hot for August, but the gentle winds cooled the parched earth. The rains of winter were all but a memory. The house faced east along the waterfront of Algiers in the shadow of the Martyr’s Monument. The old city of Algiers is one of the worst to be found on North Africa. It you want to see a real slum, this is the place. It continues to be one of the most dangerous places for foreigners to visit. Entering the old city is often called suicidal.
From amidst the cluttered streets of the old city, a group of men made their way toward the waterfront. Their mission was of the utmost importance to their cause. This one act would propel them from fighting with knives and chains to fighting with RPG’s and M-16’s. Their mission, if successful, would take them from the slums of Algiers, to the opulent homes along the waterfront. The mission, when first presented, sounded like a one way trip to death, but when the prize of victory was dangled in front of the men, they eagerly agreed.
The teenage boy was restless. He kicked his legs and pushed the soft silk sheet from his sleek frame allowing the evening breeze to caress his smooth skin. He dreamed of his father and the day they had spent together. Allaoua and his father Hamid had spent the day on jet skies on El Djazair Bay. Miles and miles of exotic beaches surround the bay while great mountains rise into to blue sky that is only mirrored by the blue of the water. The father and son had screamed across the bay on the jet skies laughing and enjoying the closeness only a father and son can do.
The young teenager rolled over onto his stomach and pulled the silk covered pillow to his chest, caressing it and feeling comfort in its softness. It was the last comfort he would enjoy for quite some time as rough hands covered his mouth and grabbed his arms and legs. The unexpected slap across his face brought tears to his eyes, but his covered mouth muffled his cries. Fourteen years of protected living did little to prepare the boy for the brutalities of men on a mission … men with needs … men with lust for smooth and pure skin.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Will’s conscious mind was in turmoil. On one hand, his mind told him that he was straight … he liked girls. On the other hand … he could not help but feel something when he looked at Starr. The feelings were confusing and caused the boy to feel nervous. There were new feelings coursing through his body and he had no idea how to handle them. Will sat in the big comfy upholstered chair and gazed at the interaction between Starr and Don. It was pretty obvious that Don cared a great deal for Starr, in a fatherly kind of way. Since Malin had thrown Starr out, Don and Ceenta had taken him under their wing and seen to it that he continued with school and had a place to stay. Will watched the muscles move in Starr’s arms. He looked at the long black hair sway gently with each movement. Then Will found himself captivated by the bright green eyes as they glanced his way.
“What the hell is happening to me?” Will thought to himself. “I like girls, damn it!” Will fought with himself over the strange feelings that could not be denied.
“Will.” He heard his name, but didn’t acknowledge it. He was too deep in thought. “Will!” The voice rang out in his ears and he looked to see where it had come from.
“Huh.”
“You’re pretty quiet. Are you all right?” asked Daniel.
“Umm, yeah. I’m fine.”
“Can you do me a favor?”
“Sure, Daniel.”
“Can you find Tom for me? I need to know he’s all right. I’m really worried about him.”
“Not to worry, Daniel. I’ll check up on him and see what’s going on. He was pretty upset.”
“I could go with you,” said Starr. Will snapped his head around and was once again captivated by the piercing green eyes. “Ceenta can be, ah, intimidating if you don’t know him and I’m sure I could convince Tom that he’s cool. I had a bit of a problem with the whole vampire thing at first, but it doesn’t bother me at all now.”
“That’s a great idea, Starr,” said Daniel. “I don’t want to lose Tom over this.”
“Glad to do it, mate. So, what do you think, Will?” Will gazed at the creamy smooth complexion, the soft black hair and the cute pug nose. The strange feelings were slowly taking over and it scared him. But at the same time, those feelings made him feel good.
“Will?”
“Huh?”
“Do you want me to go with you to see Tom?”
“Ah, yeah. That’d be great.”

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

“This meeting is called to order,” Governor Downing said. The murmuring quieted down as he began to speak. “I think everyone knows why this meeting has been called. This whole Ceenta thing is starting to get out of control. He thinks he’s more important than us and walks around like he’s Merlin himself.” The other governors nodded in agreement. “Something has to be done.”
“I heard he’s become very good friends with Daniel Radcliffe,” one of the other governors said.
“Fag! Now he’s shagging boys!”
“Well, I heard he turned Daniel into a vampire.”
“What?!?!”
“That’s what I heard.”
“Gentlemen, this can not be allowed to continue,” Governor Downing said loudly. “We have to do something to show this pompous ass who’s in charge. I think we should send a contingent to meet with him and explain our position. Any volunteers?” The room was suddenly very quiet.
“Why don’t we send law enforcement and let them deal with him?”
“We tried that and he sent them away.” An argument erupted in the governor’s chamber and the shouts reached a fever pitch. Derrick and Keith from law enforcement stood just outside the door. They looked at each other and silently nodded. They moved silently down the hall and into a private office.
“I can’t believe it,” said Derrick.
“I know. They’re really scared of Ceenta.”
“They’re just a bunch of old homophobic arseholes.”
“Derrick, we’ve got to warn Ceenta. I’m afraid the governors are going to end up doing something really stupid.”

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Hidden deep within the slums that make up the old central city of Algiers, a young boy sat in the darkness. His once flawless smooth skin was now covered in bruises and small cuts. As he softly sobbed in the blackness, he pulled his knees up to his chest and clutched them tightly. The concrete walls of the small room he was in were cold to the touch, but he stayed close to them. Huddled in the corner, he kept asking himself what was going on and why these men were hurting him.
The door suddenly opened and the boy cowered back tightly into the corner. Rough hands picked him up and led him outside. He glanced up to see the full moon again before being pushed into the trunk of a car. The lid slammed shut. The motor came to life and he felt the car moving, stopping occasionally, turning corners and finally coming to a complete stop. The motor was switched off and he heard doors opening. Two men pulled him from the trunk and led him to a small boat. He was put in a seat and told to stay quiet. While the men talked quietly with a third man, the boy trembled with fright. Kidnapping was not in his vocabulary and the thought never entered his mind. He remained entirely clueless as to what was happening. He only knew he wanted to go home.
The third man got into the boat and started the engine. The other men helped untie the ropes. Soon the small boat was slipping through the black waters of El Djazair Bay. It seemed strange that thoughts of the day before spent with his father on these very waters should enter his mind at that moment, but it did give him some comfort. The small boat pulled up beside a huge freighter. The man quickly tied the boat up and roughly pushed the young boy toward the steps hanging from the ship’s side. He was escorted up to the deck then quickly taken below and taken into a cabin. The man leered at him.
“You stay here and keep quiet if you know what’s good for you,” he man said coldly.
“Why are you doing this?” The resounding slap across his face gave the boy the answer he didn’t want.
“I said to keep quiet,” the man said harshly. Then the man grinned. “You behave yourself and I’ll show you how nice I can be,” he said as he rubbed his rough hands over the smooth skin on the boy’s thigh. “And I can be very nice,” he chuckled. The man suddenly got up, left the cabin and slammed the door shut. Allaoua sat back on the bunk and rubbed his face; the sting from the slap still sharp. A single tear rolled down his innocent face. It was followed shortly by another. He trembled slightly. All he knew was that he wanted to go home. Hate entered his thoughts. Hate toward the men doing this to him. Fear and hate fueled adrenaline. He narrowed his eyes and felt emotion rise within him to levels he had never known before. Balling his right hand into a fist, he shook it at the door. The metal hatch-like door to the cabin immediately blew off its hinges and crashed onto the floor of the corridor.





Chapter Twelve
“Bad News”

Will watched as Starr walked down the corridor in front of him. His eyes were glued to the ample firm boy butt in front of him. No matter how hard he tried, he just couldn’t tear his eyes from the glorious globes just feet in front of him. Will’s internal struggle to reject the feelings was rapidly becoming a losing battle. To make matters worse, his body was starting to react in ways that threatened to bring a protruded embarrassment. He tried to will it away, but the blood flowed freely and filled his boyhood to obscene proportions.
“Is this it?” Starr asked stopping in front of a door. Will blushed furiously as Starr glanced down at huge bulge in Will’s pants. Starr smiled knowingly. “So, Will, is this Tom’s flat?” Will looked up and saw the smirk on Starr’s face. He blushed even more and nodded. “Perhaps it would be best if he saw you first. He doesn’t even know me.” Will nodded in agreement and knocked on the door. With his back to Starr, Will quickly rearranged things to appear a little less conspicuous and knocked on the door again. The boys heard some movement inside and then the door tentatively opened a bit.
The sight that beheld their eyes caused them both to almost openly gasp. The tousled hair, the dark circles under the red, puffy eyes, the wrinkled tee shirt and pajama bottoms told much more of a story than their wearer wanted told.
“Yeah,” Tom said softly, blinking into the harsh light of the hallway. Will’s thoughts of Starr vanished in a second.
“T-Tom, are you all right?” Will stammered.
“Will?” Tom whispered. “Will!” Tom flew the door open and wrapped his arms around his friend. “Oh God, Will!” Tom pulled Will even tighter as fresh tears rolled down his cheeks. “What have I done? What have I done?” he whispered into Will’s ear.
“Everything will be fine, mate. Come on. I’ve got someone for you to meet.” For the first time, Tom looked in Starr’s direction. Through the blurriness of his tears he could make out a quite handsome young man patiently waiting in the corridor. Tom relaxed his hug and stepped back. He quickly wiped his tears. The embarrassed blush was hidden beneath his already red cheeks.
“Hi, Tom,” Starr said gently. “I’m Starr.” Tom tentatively reached his hand to shake the offered one. “Glad to meet you.” Tom nodded.
“Come on then, let’s get inside,” smiled Will. The boys made their way through the door. Starr was stunned. The flat was a proper mess. Clothes were strewn everywhere. Empty carry out boxes littered the tables. The drapes were drawn shut tight and the air smelled of someone that hadn’t bathed in a few days.
Tom collapsed on the couch and drew a blanket up around him. The television blinked the only light into the room.
“Tom, what the hell is going on here?” stammered Will who immediately pulled the drapes open.
“Aaargh! Don’t do that!” Tom wailed weakly.
“You stink. Take a bath, now!” The directive from Will left no room for negotiation. Tom reluctantly stumbled down the hallway toward the shower. Will started picking up clothes. Starr joined in and gathered the trash. After the dishwasher was loaded to its max, the cycle was started and the two boys went back to the living room. Tom emerged from the hall dripping wet with only a towel wrapped around him.
“Could you check the dryer for me please? I haven’t a thing to wear.” Will rolled his eyes and headed for the laundry room. He came back a moment later with a pair of wrinkled jeans, a wrinkled tee shirt and a wadded up pair of boxers.
“Here, now get dressed,” he said as he handed the clothes to Tom. “And be quick about it. We need to talk.”
“There’s nothing to talk about,” mumbled Tom as he walked back down the hall.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Allaoua stumbled back against the bunk and looked wide-eyed at the at the twisted metal that a moment before had been the door. He was too shocked to move. Even as the sound of footsteps approaching grew louder, he still could not move. His body was on hold. Even as his brain concluded that now was the time to run, his legs wouldn’t cooperate. The cold steel frame of the bunk went unnoticed as the white knuckles of his hand gripped it tightly. His eyes were transfixed on the destruction before him. A man suddenly appeared at the door.
“What the hell?” the man stammered. He turned to look at the frail fourteen year old boy. “Who did this?” he demanded. Allaoua’s face was alabaster white. His heart beat with the rhythm of a four cylinder engine at maximum rpm’s. The man moved into the cabin and reached out his hand to grab Allaoua. Reflexes he didn’t even know he had kicked in and the boy jerked back on to the protectiveness of the bunk.
“Stay away,” he said.
“You little shit! I’ll show you the meaning of stay away!” the man leered. The gnarled hand swung through the air with a foreboding swoosh. A split second later Allaoua slammed into the steel wall as pain shot through his face. Fear consumed the boy, but underneath the fear another emotion was beginning to make itself known. Anger. It slowly started to simmer and then turned into a full fledged boil. He looked up at the man and his eyes narrowed.
“NO!” Allaoua shouted. As the words left his lips the man flew threw the air and slammed hard into the bulkhead. The boy watched as the huge man slumped to the floor unconscious. Now it was time to move. He scurried out of the cabin and headed for the deck. Shouts of men behind him spurned him on. He raced up the last steps, threw the metal door back resulting in a loud clang and ran on to the deck of the ship. The lights of the harbor were no where to be seen. Allaoua panicked. The ship has set sail. He quickly ran toward the stern. There! There on the horizon were the lights! The lights of home! The lights of safety. Without a second thought, he jumped over the steel railing into the blackness of the night and the cold water some forty feet below.
The boy’s lithe body cut through the surface of the cool waters of El Djazair Bay with ease. Even though the plunge had been from nearly forty feet, the youth had no problem. The strong swirling currents produced by the giant propellers of the cargo ship were a totally different thing. He felt himself being first being pushed and then pulled. At first it was up and then it was down and then back up again. In the constant changing currents he lost track of which direction the surface was. The seconds clicked by rapidly and his lungs began to burn with their need of air. Allaoua’s strength was dwindling. A warm blackness was slowly surrounding his mind as the currents slowly subsided. He thought of his father and the fun times they had had in these very waters. The memory of the laughter they shared in the glorious sunshine brought a sense of comfort to the fourteen year old as he drifted in the land between consciousness and the blackness of death. His father was his best friend and he loved him deeply. He wished he was being held in those strong arms, that the bad men would go away and he would once again be safe. He thought of his bed and the softness of the silk sheets. He longed to be there again … caressed and protected by the silky smoothness.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Tom emerged from the hallway wearing the wrinkled clothes. His kept his head down, looking at the carpet as he slowly made his way back toward the couch. Starr and Will watched as Tom sat down.
“Where’s my blanket?” Tom mumbled.
“It’s in the wash, along with all the other clothes that were strewn about,” Will said hotly. “I can’t believe you, Tom!”
“I-I was in love,” Tom said softly. Then taking a deep breath, he continued. “Oh hell, I am in love but, but … he’s a vampire! He kills people by drinking their blood! I-I just can’t deal with that.”
“Tom, not everything is as it seems,” Starr said softly. “To be a bit cliché, you’re judging the book by its cover.”
“Sorry, ah …”
“Starr.”
“That’s right. Look, Starr, I haven’t read anything about vampires that was good. You see red eyes and huge fangs. Then you feel the pain as those fangs rip into your neck and then you’re dead. Open and shut. The end. Goodbye life,” said Tom sullenly.
“Look mate, it’s not like that. It’s fiction. It’s fantasy. It’s someone’s imagination.”
“Imagination or not, I just can’t clear my mind of the picture of Daniel and his fangs as he’s about to take my life.”
“Where’d that thought come from?” asked Will.
“I had a dream. We were making love and I cut my finger on the headboard. Next thing I know, I’m looking at two razor sharp fangs. Sorry, but I just can’t forget it. I love Daniel with all my heart, but I want to live too.”
“What you’ve described is called a blood thirst. That only happens when a vampire goes without blood for too long. As long as he feeds regularly, that will never happen,” explained Starr.
“Feeds? Feeds!?! You mean bites innocent people and kills them so he can survive! There’s no way I can be a part of that. No way.”
“It’s NOT like that!” Starr said forcefully, his frustration growing. Tom jumped up from the couch.
“It IS like that! And who the hell are you to tell me differently? This is bullshit. I want you out of my home! Get out, NOW!” Tom whirled around and ran down the hall.
“That went well,” mused Will. Starr was in no mood for humor. He glared at Will.
“I’ll be back. Don’t go anywhere. When this conversation is over, we’re having a little talk … straight boy!” Starr didn’t wait for a response and headed down the hall after Tom. Will sat in his chair, mouth agape, wondering what that comment was all about.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Sarduri silently entered the room and gently cleared his throat. Ceenta and Don looked up and waited. Sarduri nodded at his masters.
“It is with great sorrow that I must inform you of some news that has reached us concerning some activity that is quite possibly attached to Malin,” he said clearly. Ceenta looked at Don. The look of worry crossed both their faces at the same time. “It seems that a young boy was kidnapped. His father is an OPEC Oil Minister. No demands for ransom have been received. The boy was last seen going to bed. His father went to check on him before retiring and found his son’s room to be in disarray. Further evidence indicates the boy was forcefully taken. Even though the police in Algiers are quite inept, they did manage to find witnesses that saw a old beat up car parked just outside the minister’s compound.” Sarduri sighed deeply and then continued. “And I’ve also received word from one of the law enforcement officers that the governors are quite upset over your indignance concerning the recent attack and your friendship with Daniel Radcliffe. He is, after all, quite popular in our world. Rumors are spreading that you’ve changed him into a vampire. That isn’t sitting very well with the ministers.” Ceenta abruptly stood up and glared at Sarduri. “Forgive me, master, but I am only the messenger.” Ceenta seethed for a moment then relaxed slightly and nodded at Sarduri.
“I know old friend. The news of the ministers was the straw on the proverbial camel’s back. It was the news of this boy being kidnapped that really got me going.”
“Protecting youth has always been a priority with you, sir,” Sarduri said with a bow.
“And that bastard Malin is pushing all your buttons, babe,” Don said as he stood next to his love and wrapped his arm around his waist. “He’s using them to get to you.”
“Well, he got to me,” Ceenta said defiantly. “Now it’s time to get to him.” Ceenta whirled around and took Don into his arms. “We’ve got a few scores to settle. Malin has gone unchecked for too long. It’s time for action. Swift and unmerciful action.” Ceenta turned to Sarduri. “Find out all you can about this boy that was taken. I want all the details. We need to get him out of harm’s way as soon as possible. Then send a message to the governors. Tell them to keep their noses where they belong, in the pig trough. As for Malin …” Ceenta paused and thought carefully. “after seeing what he did to his own son and then to hear he’s kidnapping kids, well, he’s gotten out on hand. We’re gonna need some help with Malin. Sarduri, put out the word. Be discrete and keep it within our close circle, but let everyone know what he’s been up to and that he must be stopped … and if it should come it to … stopped permanently.” Sarduri bowed and left the room.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

As his head broke the surface of the water and fresh air rushed into his lungs, Allaoua counted his blessings, but his troubles were far from over. He watched as the huge freighter slowly shrank in size until it disappeared altogether. The lights of the harbor seemed even further away than they did from the deck of the ship. The fourteen year old quickly stripped down to his boxes and started to slowly swim toward the lights. He would have to conserve his energy to make the long swim. Moving slowly but surely through the dark waters, his thoughts turned to the unexplained things that had happened. He had been taken against his will. Why? What did those evil men want with him? And then the door to his room simply exploded off its hinges. What caused that? He remembered being really mad, more mad than he had ever been. That’s when the door flew off its hinges.
The carefree days of romping in the sunshine, never being afraid, always being loved and protected and being … innocent … were gone. For the first time in his fourteen years, Allaoua found himself alone. He couldn’t depend on anyone else right now. If he was to make it to shore … to safety … to life … there was only one person he could depend on … himself. A renewed determination drove him on. It consumed him, comforted him and gave him the strength to keep moving … keep moving toward safety. The days he spent in the family pool were paying off as his sleek frame moved like a well oiled machine, propelling him through the water. After what seemed to be at least an hour, he paused and looked up toward the lights of the harbor. Anguish consumed him. The lights seemed just as far away as they were when he first started swimming. Several emotions passed through him in quick succession … hopelessness, depression, loneliness, fear … and then … anger. Allaoua got mad. He got mad at the men who took him. He got mad that he couldn’t swim any faster. He got mad that he wasn’t asleep in his bed. His anger turned to rage. He closed his eyes slammed his fist down on the water.
“Home! That’s where I want to be!” he screamed out into the night. In the blink of an eye, he no longer felt the cool waters of El Djazair Bay. Instead, he felt the smooth silk of the sheets on his bed. Delirious with desperation … he slammed his fist back down, but this time it hit a mattress and not the water of the bay. Allaoua quickly opened his eyes. He sat up straight and looked out into his bedroom! The feel of the cool breeze coming through the window and caressing his wet skin was the boy’s last thought before he fell back on his bed. This was too much for him to comprehend.
















Chapter Thirteen
“All Good Things”

Will sat alone on the couch and listened as the voices down the hall slowly grew into an all out shouting match. He squirmed slightly as Starr’s last words echoed in his mind.
“ … straight boy!”
“I am straight,” Will said out loud. “I prefer the ladies.” At the same time he spoke the words, visions of Starr’s cute butt walking down the corridor flashed across his mind. “Bloody hell,” he gasped. “Could I be, could I?” Will slammed his fist down on the couch that ended up being in perfect sync with the sound of smashing of glass coming from down the hall. The sound of a slamming door caused Will to sit up straight on the couch. A moment later, an exasperated Starr emerged from the hall. Starr’s enraged expression softened somewhat when he saw Will.
“You were right,” Starr muttered.
“Sorry?”
“You were right. That didn’t go well,” Starr said as he slumped onto the couch beside Will. “The bugger is so narrow minded he’s seeing in tunnel vision. He can’t get past the fact that Daniel is a vampire. And furthermore, he can’t get past the concept that all vampires do is drink blood.”
“To be perfectly honest, before all this started up, that’s what I thought too.” Starr looked up at Will, straight faced for a moment, but then giving in to a slight grin.
“And I suppose that before all this you thought yourself perfectly straight?” Will, who had unconsciously moved closer to Starr during the conversation, jumped back. “Ah come on, mate. I can see it in your eyes.”
“You flatter yourself.”
“No, you flatter yourself. Just because you like the looks of my bum, doesn’t mean that I like the looks of yours.” Will fell back against the couch, his mouth agape. Starr chuckled and then continued. “But if you were to ask me, I’d say that it was quite delicious.” Will stood up abruptly, as did Starr. They stood close enough for Will to feel Starr’s breath wash over his face and neck. He looked into Starr’s eyes and became lost in the beauty of the blue. Their faces came closer together. Will unconsciously moistened his lips. Mere inches separated them as Starr’s arms encircled Will’s waist. Will let out a soft groan and leaned into Starr. As their lips met, a voice rang out.
“And what the bloody hell is this?” The boys turned to look at a completely naked Tom standing in the hallway. Not only was he completely naked, but he was holding a picture of Daniel and sporting a quite proper hard on.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Allaoua awoke to find himself in soft silk sheets. He stretched luxuriously as the fine fabric caressed his skin. Snuggling down into the comfort of his bed, he pulled the sheets up around him and dozed slightly in the comfort it all had been a dream. He smiled slightly as dreams of his father’s love and admiration filled his mind.
“Young man, you must awaken now.” The voice was strange to Allaoua. Feeling that it must still be a dream, he snuggled deeper into the warmth of the bed. “Allaoua, you must wake up. You are safe for now, but we must move quickly. Your safety and that of your father depend on us moving quickly.” Allaoua sat up straight. He looked into the blue eyes of man that sat on the edge of his bed. He took in the long blond hair, the silk black shirt and the black cape. “I am not here to hurt you, Allaoua. I am here to keep you safe.” The young boy shrank back into the softness of the bed and pulled the silken sheets up tight around him. “You are an interesting boy. You have no doubt experienced some incredible things,” the strange man said, but then the stranger became excited. “The power lives within you. It seems strange to you now, but you will come to embrace it as many others before you have.” Allaoua was thunderstruck. The strange man made no sense.
“But …”
“You’re a wizard, Allaoua.”
“A what? A wizard? No, you see, I’m Allaoua. I’m an ordinary boy.”
“I read your mind while you were sleeping. You’ve been though a terrible ordeal. Knocking metal doors off hinges and teleporting one’s self from the midst of the bay to your own bed are not powers of the ordinary.”
“But …”
“No buts. I have traveled a great distance to see you. These are troubled times, young one. You have lived a sheltered life here with your father and mother. The bad things that happened to you are just a hint of the cruelty and evil that live in this world.”
“So, I didn’t have a dream?” The stranger smiled softly and shook his head.
“No little one, it was all real. And perhaps one of the first things I should explain to you is that there are good wizards and there are bad wizards.”
“Are you a wizard?” The stranger grinned.
“Of course I am.”
“A good one or a bad one?” Allaoua asked seriously.
“A good one. I assure you. In fact, a very good one.”
“And what is your name?”
“I am Ceenta, and I am here to protect you. You know all too well that the evil ones are nearby. We should to move to a more secure location.” Allaoua’s anger was slowly rising. Who does this man think he is?
“And why should I trust you? You’ll just take me away from my father. You’re just like those men. You want … you want …”
“NO! I do not want!” Ceenta said with such forcefulness that Allaoua shrank back into the sheets. Ceenta immediately realized his mistake. “I’m sorry,” he said much softer. “I didn’t mean to frighten you. I do not lust after your youth. I have no desire to force myself upon you. I only want you to be safe. There are evil powers at work and it is imperative that we take you to a place of safety. It is not your father these evil men wish to hurt … it is you. And that is why I am here. Allaoua, you must trust me.”
“And why should I trust you?” Ceenta realized he was getting nowhere by speaking straightforward and decided to change his tactic a bit.
“Because I know Harry Potter. He’s a very personal friend of mine and I bet I could arrange for you to meet him. He’s a real wizard, you know.” Allaoua’s mouth fell open in complete awe.
“You know the real Harry Potter?” Ceenta smiled to himself. Allaoua gathered a few things and pronounced himself ready. Ceenta smiled at the boy. Despite all the events of the last 24 hours, the boy still exuded his youthful innocence. Perhaps not all was lost just yet. Ceenta held out his hand and the young boy took it eagerly. Perhaps this promise of a visit with Harry Potter was just a bit too much, he mused to himself as he closed his eyes and concentrated on his villa.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The old man hobbled down the hallway. Just before entering his private chambers, he bellowed out to no one in particular.
“I don’t want to be disturbed!”
“Malin, could I inquire …” a servant started.
“No, you may not!” The old man swirled around and entered his private chambers. He quickly poured himself a strong drink and turned toward the youth chained to the wall beside his bed. The young boy’s eyes were wild with fear. The old man whisked up his glass, moved over silently and sat on the edge of his bed. He looked at the youth chained to the wall and smiled slightly. He swirled the liquid around in the glass then brought it to his lips and drank it all. He wiped his mouth with this back of his hand and chuckled quietly. He looked lustfully at the smooth young flesh before him.
“You, young man, are this evening’s … entertainment,” the old man slurred, “and you’re going to make this old man feel really good.” The youth shrank back against the wall, whimpering. He was barely thirteen, barely into puberty as was evident by his sparse pubic hair. The old man staggered back over to the desk and poured a generous amount of the amber liquid into his glass. He once again swirled it around then chugged it down. Reddened eyes turned toward the boy who struggled hopelessly against the chains.
“I know what you faggots want. You’re just like my son and he disgusts me. How can any son of mine grovel in the dirt begging, begging for company of another man?” Malin spit on the floor. His eyes took in the smooth, innocent skin. The old man staggered forward and fell to his knees in front of the boy. The putrid smell of alcohol filled the young boy’s nostrils. A gnarled hand reached out and caressed the boy’s cheek.
“Please, sir,” the boy pled.
“Oh yes, I love it when they beg.” The old man reached for the boy’s genitals, but as he reached, he fell over and passed into a stuporous sleep at the boy’s feet.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

“I said what the bloody hell is this?” Tom asked again. Will looked at the naked boy and smirked.
“I guess I could ask the same thing.” Tom glanced down, dropped the picture softly to the carpet and quickly covered himself the best he could. “And to answer your question, it’s called a kiss,” Starr said. He turned back to Will and kissed him straight on the lips. Will struggled and tried to push away, but as Starr’s warm, insistent lips did their job, the struggle turned to desire. All thoughts of Tom disappeared from Will’s mind. He became lost in the sensation … lost in the desire … lost in the lust. Will ground his hips against Starr and tried to pull the dark haired youth closer. Tom watched for a moment. He saw the desire grow in Will. Then reality smacked him in the head.
“Hey, I thought you were straight?” Tom called out to Will. His question went ignored. Tom walked briskly over and tapped Will on the shoulder hard. “Hey mate, I thought you said you were straight?” Will broke the kiss and turned to Tom.
“Funny thing, mate,” Starr said. “I thought I heard him say he was a vampire.” Tom stumbled back quickly, glaring at Will.
“I’m not a vampire!” Will declared.
“You said you were straight, too!” Tom whipped back. There was an awkward moment of silence, then Starr spoke.
“Fact of the matter, Tom. It doesn’t matter. Just like it doesn’t matter that Daniel is gay or a vampire or even straight.”
“He’s not straight,” Tom said quietly.
“I know that, but what I do know is that he loves you with all his heart. You’ve got to see that?” Tom flopped down in the chair, his manhood now at rest, but out in the open for all to see. He sighed deeply as his mind filled with images of Daniel. “And from the look of things,” Starr said pointing to Tom’s crotch. “He’s very lucky to have found you.” Tom blushed and grabbed a throw pillow in an effort to cover himself and looked at the carpet. Starr gestured for Will to sit down. Will nodded and the boys sat down on the couch across from Tom. They waited patiently.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Daniel paced back and forth. Don sipped on the glass of wine and watched as the worried young man made the trip from the fireplace to the French doors opening to the veranda for the hundredth time in the last half hour. All that movement made Don tired. He certainly wished Ceenta would return soon. Then they could both deal with the heart broken kid. A flash from the corner caught the attention of both of them.
“Ceenta! Thank god!” said Don rising to meet his mate. Ceenta smiled and put his hand on the shoulder of a very cute young boy. Don’s eyes followed Ceenta’s hand. “And who is this fine looking young man?” Don asked without missing a beat.
“This is Allaoua. We’ve just arrived from Algiers. Allaoua, this is Don. He is my mate.” The young man froze for a moment, and then grinned broadly.
“Cool.”
“And, over there, is Dan … er, Harry Potter,” Ceenta said with a half grin as he looked at Daniel. Allaoua’s eyes grew very wide.
“You’re … you’re Harry Potter,” he exclaimed.
“Only in the movies,” said Daniel as he smiled at the boy. “And please call me Daniel. All my friends call me Daniel,” the young movie star said as he moved over to meet his young fan properly. Allaoua blushed and scuffed his feet.
“Allaoua just learned he’s a wizard, Daniel. Perhaps you could talk with him about it?” Ceenta suggested. Daniel smiled and looked down into starstruck eyes.
“I’d be glad to.” The two boys walked out onto the veranda while Ceenta sat down with Don on the couch. They wrapped their arms around one another and hugged tightly. Don knew all the stress that his beloved was dealing with. He knew all too well about the inheritance. He knew about the regional governors. He knew about the guilt Ceenta harbored by having to turn Daniel, even though it was to save the young actor’s life. He also knew about Malin and the evil that resided in the old man’s heart. Don hugged Ceenta tighter, letting his lover know through their touch alone, that he understood.
Another great flash of light filled the room. Not expecting anyone, Ceenta and Don stood quickly; both on the ready. The people who appeared in the corner immediately put them both at ease, but as they looked closer, a feeling of apprehension took hold. Ceenta glanced toward the veranda as Daniel and Allaoua came to see who arrived. The expression on Daniel’s face was hard to miss. He ran across the room and flung his arms around Tom. Starr and Will stood by and watched. The fact that they were holding hands did not escape Don’s keen eye. The attention of the room was on the two boys holding each other in a fierce hug. Allaoua looked on wide-eyed as Tom smothered Daniel’s face with kisses.
“Harry Potter and Draco Malfoy! Cool!”




























Chapter Fourteen
“Moment of Truth”

Will sat alone on the veranda. The revelry inside continued despite his absence. The sun had set a few moments ago and the entire estate was slowly getting darker. The clouds just over the tips of the trees reflected a fiery red as the sun dipped below the horizon. Now the color had turned, appropriately, blood red. He looked out across the vast forest below and listened to the crickets. Off in the far distance, he could barely make out the sound of the river, but it was soon drown out by the sounds of laughter wafting from the open French doors. While everyone inside was happy and having a great time, Will, on the other hand, was mired deep in thought. A frown creased his forehead as his thoughts whipped themselves into a whirlwind.
Since meeting Starr, everything he knew about himself had been ripped apart and put back together in an entirely different fashion. He liked girls. That was never a question, until … yes, until he met Starr. Suddenly his world had been turned upside down. He didn’t have a problem with gay people. He considered Daniel and Tom to be among his best friends. He was all right with it, as long as it wasn’t him. But, now … it was him. Will’s problem was that he had no control over any of it. No one asked him about it. No one asked what he wanted. No one asked for his opinion. The change just happened. Could it be undone? Could he make it go away? Did he even want it to go away? There was just something about Starr that stirred feelings he never felt before. It made him uneasy. The feelings were strange, yet at the same time, they were comforting. Those feelings were far from a quickly passing fancy, they were strong, stronger than any other feeling Will had ever experienced. Then there was the kiss. It had been like a bolt of lightning, hitting him squarely between the eyes then rocketing straight to his groin glancing off every pleasure center in Will’s body on the way. He drew a quick breath as the memory washed over him. The tingle between his legs was a testament to the vivid memory.
“Acceptance is a difficult thing.” Will snapped his head around and saw Starr standing amidst the yellow ribbon of light flowing from the open French doors. More laughter came from inside. Will turned his gaze back to the darkening forest and ignored the comment. This was just too confusing and the main source of the confusion was not what Will needed at the moment. Starr moved slowly to the bench and sat down. Will steeled himself for more comments, but Starr remained silent. Will could feel the warmth of the beautiful young man that sat next to him.
“Beautiful?” he thought to himself. “Did I just say beautiful?” Will sighed a deep sigh. Starr did too. Will crossed his legs at his ankles and leaned back on the bench. Starr did too. They sat together on the veranda, not saying anything, and just gazed out into the night. As the chill in the air grew, the warmth in Will’s heart grew as well. He just could not deny the feelings that were literally coursing through his body. His jeans tightened between his legs as the blood rushed in, swelling his manhood. He blushed. It was the last thing he needed right now.
Starr stood suddenly and walked over to the stone wall surrounding the veranda. He leaned against it and looked out into the night. A whole new wave of desire rushed over Will as he gazed at Starr’s well defined body, in particular, Starr’s well defined boy butt. He groaned in frustration. Starr turned and faced Will. He leaned back on the wall and crossed his arms on his chest. Will looked hungrily at the huge bulge in Starr’s pants.
“You are fighting nature, Will. Just let it happen. I know I want you and from the looks of the lump in your pants, you want me too. So just let it happen.” The darkness of the veranda hid the blush on Will’s face. It also gave him something unexpected … courage. Will started to stand, but Starr met him and gently pushed him back down on the bench. Will looked up into Starr’s piercing blue eyes. He knew he was putty in Starr’s hands and, truth be known, he couldn’t care less. Starr held out his hands, palms up. Will involuntarily swallowed. He tentatively reached out and grasped the offered hands. The skin was warm, almost hot to the touch and it sent a shiver of excitement though Will’s body. Starr gently pulled Will to his feet. Starr’s body radiated warmth as Will was drawn to within inches of contact. The two boys stood on the veranda and gazed into each other’s eyes. Will’s heart was pounding in his chest. Memories of that first kiss lingered and gave Will the desire to want it again. Starr stood still, wanting Will to make the first move. He held his breath as Will moved closer. They could feel each other’s warm breath on their faces. Will had never wanted something so bad in his life. All doubts eroded away and he leaned in and his lips made contact. The bolt of lightning came again. Will wrapped his arms around Starr and pulled him as close as he could while he crushed his lips against the sensuous warmth that welcomed them.
“Hey, you guys should …” Don stopped in mid sentence. He looked on as the two boys dissolved into a world of their own. Don blushed despite himself as he witnessed the deep desire that only two young virile males can exude. He looked on for a moment more until he felt that all too familiar stirring between his own legs. Blushing, Don slipped quietly back inside.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

An obviously frail man, clad in what could only be described as a monk’s robe, moved down a dark corridor, shuffling his aged feet. The hem of his robe brushed against the rough stone floor as he made his way toward a very old ornate door. Sandaled feet scuffed to a stop. A gnarled old hand reached out and slowly pushed the heavy, hand carved door aside. The tattered hem of his robe flowed over the interior polished marble floor quickly. First he removed the handcuffs. Then with a flick of his wand, the fireplace roared to life. With a nod from the man under the woolen hood, the shivering young boy scooted over next to the fire. The naked boy timidity looked back at the hooded figure. The old man flicked his wand again. Clothes appeared in the chair by the fire. The man nodded again and the boy got dressed. The old man watched as the boy’s almost blue lips slowly turned back into a healthy pink. After buttoning the last button, the boy looked up and offered his thanks with a slight smile and a nod.
“Leave quickly if you value your life,” the old man whispered. The wild-eyed youth scrambled out the door and didn’t look back. The old man turned and looked down at an almost equally old man asleep on the floor. He sighed and shook his head in disgust. Roughly kicking an almost empty bottle of rum out of the way, he leaned down and shook the sleeping man’s shoulder.
“What?” came the grumbled response.
“The bed would be a much better place to sleep.”
“Huh?” The old man on the floor looked up through bleary red eyes. “Oh, it’s you.” The hooded figure helped the old man off the floor and into the bed. Malin’s face suddenly grew ashen. He rolled to the side of the bed, vomited onto the floor then rolled onto his back and passed out, vomit spittle sliding down from the corner of his mouth. The hooded figure looked on in repulsion. He turned quickly and left the room. Shuffling down the corridor, the old man was suddenly full of resolve. Year after year he had taken care of his employer’s personal needs. Year after year he had become hardened to the evils, but the sight of the naked young boy handcuffed to the wall beside the bed was more than he could take. Something had to be done. Someone had to be contacted. Somebody had to do something … and soon. He vowed to himself that the sun would not set on the day without the heir of responsibility knowing first hand what evils were being done.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

The reunion went well and everyone was happy. Sarduri served drinks and snacks and all thoughts of fangs and blood were put on hold. Ceenta had entertained everyone with tales only a three hundred twenty six year old vampire could tell. Allaoua listened with rapt attention, but even with Ceenta’s engaging tales, he couldn’t help but take quick glances at his two favorite movie stars. Watching them as they cuddled up on the opposite end of the couch, occasionally kissing each other, Allaoua couldn’t help but feel intrigued and relieved at the same time. His own thoughts of other boys now seemed normal and that was a tremendous relief. Seeing the love in each of their eyes reassured Allaoua. At the same time he wished he were in the middle of what was going on right next to him.
As the revelry slowly died down, Ceenta and Don retired to their suite. Sarduri showed Allaoua to his guest suite. Starr and Will had retired as well and Tom found himself alone with Daniel on the couch. This was the true moment of truth for Tom. This was the moment he was most scared about. This was the moment that would decide the future of his relationship with the boy he was both desperately in love with and the boy from whom he feared for his very life.
“Before you say anything, Tom,” Daniel began, “I’m not going to bite you. I just couldn’t do that. I love you too much. You are my world, Tom. You’re what makes life worth living.”
“But you’re not living. You’re dead. You’re a vampire and you only exist by taking the lives of innocent people.” Daniel slumped back on to the couch in defeat, but Tom was far from through. “How can you do it, Daniel? How can you kill someone? How can you take an innocent life?” Daniel stood abruptly and walked over to the fireplace. Tom remained on the couch, but continued his verbal attack. “What happens when you have to kill to survive? How do you decide who’s going to die? Huh? And what happens when you let yourself go too long? What happens to the people around you who are still alive? What happens when you get the blood thirst? What happens when I’m the only meal available?!?”
“I DON’T KNOW!” Daniel shouted. A pin could be heard if it fell to the floor. “I-I’ve never done it,” he whispered.
“BULLSHIT! Fifty men attacked this estate and they all were killed!” Daniel whirled around and faced the blond boy on the couch.
“That was for protection. That was for survival!” Daniel insisted. “Ceenta tells me the hunger will come, but so far, it hasn’t,” he said much more softly.
“What happens when it does? Will your fangs suddenly appear and I start to look like filet mignon?” Tom stood up from the couch. Tears were streaming down his face. “I love you Daniel Radcliffe! I’d die for you, but I will not be a meal for you!”
“No one’s going to be a meal,” said a sleepy Ceenta. He was only wearing boxers and a tee shirt, so he moved over to the fire to get warm.
“Sorry, we didn’t mean to wake you,” Daniel said quietly.
“Go. Go sit next to Tom.” Daniel hesitated then moved over and sat on the far side of the couch leaving as much room as possible between himself and Tom.
“This was a mistake,” Tom said softly. Ceenta sighed deeply.
“It’s never been easy for a human to understand much less, accept a vampire as a friend. In fact, I can’t recall ever hearing of a vampire having a human as a lover.”
“That’s because they all got killed,” Tom mumbled.
“I have a solution,” Ceenta said. Tom raised an eyebrow. “Not that I want to, Tom, but I could change you as well.” Tom stood quickly, reached inside his shirt, pulled out a cross and held it up.
“Stay back! I should have known better than to come here. You just want to bite me. That’s all you bloodsuckers want!” Tom wildly waved the cross back and forth between Ceenta and Daniel.
A loud clap of thunder shook the house down to its foundation. It was immediately followed by another. Ceenta disappeared into a cloud of smoke. A tall dark figure appeared out of the smoke. Standing ten feet tall and dressed in a black robe and hood, the figure towered over the boys. Tom stumbled back a few steps then held up his cross again. The figure reached an arm out and the cross flew from Tom’s hand to the figure’s hand. Then Tom whipped out his wand. It too went flying through the air and ended up in the figure’s grasp. Daniel started toward Tom but was suddenly frozen solid. Not one muscle would move. He could only watch in horror as the figure reached out his hand again. Small bolts of lightning raced from the figure’s fingertips and danced about Tom’s head. Then the voice came in a deep rumbling tone.
“Perceptum. Accipio conscienta.” (understand, accept knowledge) “I am the inheritor. I am the responsibility. Hear and understand my words.” Tom’s eyes were wide with fear. Daniel struggled to get to Tom and protect him, but the force holding him was solid and unwavering.
The words the figure spoke were followed by another double crack of thunder. A bright flash of light filled the room and once again Ceenta was standing before the fire.
“W-what happened?” he stammered. A smile crept across Tom’s face. He turned to look at Daniel. He confidently walked over to his lover, leaned his head to the side and exposed his neck.
“Bite me.” Daniel staggered back a step. Tom took a step forward. “Bite me, now.” Daniel stood still. “BITE ME!” Tom insisted. Daniel glanced at Ceenta who was just as surprised. Tom took Daniel into his arms. “Bite me, Daniel. I trust you. Now, bite me.” Daniel slowly nuzzled his face against Tom’s neck. His vampire savvy immediately sensed the blood flowing just beneath the skin. Daniel gently kissed Tom’s neck right over the carotid artery and was flushed with overwhelming desire. Ceenta watched as Daniel’s eyes turned red. “Take me, Daniel,” Tom whispered. Daniel opened his mouth and fangs instinctively dropped down. He hovered over the pulsing flesh for a moment then bit down.
Tom tensed as the razor sharp fangs sunk easily through his flesh into the artery. A feeling of intense pleasure washed over him as Daniel sucked at his neck. It was a pleasure so overwhelmingly passionate that he groaned in ecstasy.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~





Chapter Fifteen
“The Calm Before the Storm”

Clothes littered the floor of the guest suite as Will lay back on the silk sheets. All feelings of doubt disappeared as the vision of pure beauty moved silently onto the bed and hovered over him. Will’s eyes soaked in the naked smooth skin. Starr’s piercing blue eyes twinkled in the moonlight as he slowly lowered himself toward Will. The first skin to skin contact was between two throbbing shafts of hard flesh. Will gasped out loud. Starr lowered himself farther until he lay completely on top of Will. The warmth Will felt on the veranda paled in comparison. Starr’s long black hair fell softly around Will’s face as lips met lips in a passionate kiss. Their tongues engaged in a timeless battle, a battle fought over and over since the beginning of time. Will wrapped his arms around Starr and held him tightly. Even though the room was actually cool, both boys were sweating. Will pushed up with his hips, grinding himself against Starr. As the kiss broke, Will looked up into Starr’s eyes.
“I never knew it could be like this,” he panted. Starr smiled a lustful smile.
“And it gets even better,” he whispered. Starr’s tongue raked over Will’s right nipple, lapping erotically at the hardening flesh. Will’s groan urged Starr on. The hot tongue continued its assault on Will’s smooth chest. The nipple hardened rapidly under the sensuous attack. The fingers of both of Will’s hands raked through Starr’s silky smooth hair, pushing him closer. Starr could feel each of Will’s heartbeats as they pulsed through the throbbing tube of flesh that was leaking all over his chest in anticipation. Starr’s hands rubbed roughly over Will’s chest. He tugged and kneaded at the other nipple, bringing on another groan from Will. Starr’s tongue swirled south, passing over tight muscles ending up at the belly button. Starr felt a warm wetness on his chin. It was the wetness of seven throbbing inches of everything that makes Will a male. Starr’s tongue briefly left the hard muscles of Will’s stomach and curled around the spongy hardness of Will’s boyhood. Starr greedily lapped up the clear liquid then briefly took the head into his mouth. He released it with a “pop” sound. Will let out yet another groan. Starr breathed in deeply through his nose, taking in the scent of the boy that swept him off his feet. Never had he had such desire. Starr took the whole throbbing shaft deeply into his throat. His moist red lips were stretched to the max as he buried his nose in Will’s soft brown bush. He felt Will’s hands on the back of his head pushing him down ever further. The thick throbbing tube of boyhood cut off Starr’s air supply, but he didn’t care. He finally had Will where he wanted him. One of the most personal things one human being can do for another caused Starr’s own boyhood to ooze a huge glob of sticky liquid onto the smooth silk sheets. He clasped his hands against the clenched muscles of Will’s butt and pulled him closer, forcing Will’s boyhood deeper into his throat. Starr rocked his head from left to right, savoring the hot rigid flesh in his throat. With each movement, his chin raked across the soft hairs covering Will’s taught ball sack. Another spurt of sticky clear liquid spread onto the silken softness of the sheets as a long groan came from Will’s lips. Starr worked back up to the spongy head, swirled his tongue, then dove back down. He repeated the movement two more times before his mouth was flooded with Will’s essence.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Across the hall, Tom and Daniel were cuddled under similar silken sheets catching their breath. The sheen of sweat on both of their bodies cooled them quickly and Daniel pulled the sheets up to cover them.
“I’ve missed this so much,” whispered Daniel.
“I’ve missed you, Daniel,” Tom whispered back. “I guess the fear of the unknown was what kept me away. I was scared. I only had what I knew from reading and from the movies and they don’t paint a very nice picture of vampires. They’re always the bad guys.”
“Kinda like gay people,” mused Daniel.
“Huh?”
“People who don’t know any better fear gay people because they don’t understand. People naturally fear what they don’t understand.”
“Makes sense.”
“The regional governors are another prime example. They don’t understand Ceenta so they fear him. People don’t like to be afraid, so they try to get rid of what they fear. That’s why the governors hate Ceenta. That’s why people hate gays.”
“And that’s what kept me away from you,” Tom said sadly. “Fear.”
“Tell me again what happened in front of the fire?” asked Daniel.
“I’ve no idea At first I was scared to death, but then I suddenly knew and understood. It was an amazing revelation.”
“You didn’t see lightning bolts?”
“Lightning bolts? What lightening bolts?” Daniel chuckled.
“Tom, when the man reached his hand out toward you, lightning bolts came from his fingers and hit you in the head.”
“No shit?”
“No shit.”
“Who was he?” asked Tom, sitting up and leaning back against the headboard.
“I have an idea, but I want to ask Ceenta first,” Daniel explained as he too sat up. He leaned his head on Tom’s shoulder and continued. “He said that he was the responsibility and the inheritor.”
“You don’t think that was …?” exclaimed Tom. Daniel nodded his head
“There’s only one person that is the inheritor; only one person who started it all … Merlin himself.”
“But why would Merlin show up and zap me so I understand? That doesn’t make any sense at all.” Daniel frowned and nodded in agreement.
“No, it doesn’t make sense. That’s why we need to talk with Ceenta.” Tom snuggled down in the silk sheets and latched his lips to Daniel’s left nipple. The movie star groaned and arched his back pushing his chest toward Tom wanting more. Tom raked his tongue over the hardening nipple.
“Bite me again, Daniel. I’ve never, ever felt anything so powerful.” Daniel grinned a wicked grin and flashed his fangs. Tom whimpered and turned his head, offering his neck to his lover.

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

Ceenta and Don were enjoying their coffee on the veranda. Forty feet below, Allaoua was enjoying some morning laps in the pool. The birds were singing their morning song and all seemed well in the world. Giggling sounds alerted the masters of the house that they were about to be joined. The both turned and watched as Starr and Will came out on the veranda with their arms around each other and grins plastered all over their faces.
“I see someone enjoyed their evening,” Don said with a wicked smile. The pair of young boys looked up.
“Immensely,” Will said with a smile.
“And I thought you were straight,” chuckled Don.
“Honey, I’m as gay as gay gets. This stud has convinced me that my wrists are limp and I suddenly have a whole lot of fashion sense.” Starr burst out laughing. Ceenta and Don laughed as well. Sarduri appeared and smiled a knowing smile at the two new lovers.
“Would you like breakfast, young masters?” he said with a bow.
“I am famished,” gushed Tom as he unceremoniously plopped down into a lounge chair, pulling Starr with him. They landed in a heap.
“I understand rigorous monkey sex can do that,” smirked Sarduri. Will turned fourteen shades of red as Sarduri disappeared to prepare breakfast. Seconds later, Tom and Daniel made their appearance.
“Tom, you’re looking a bit pale this morning,” Ceenta said with some concern.
“If you’d been bit five times in one night, you’d be pale too,” Tom said with a chuckle. Daniel blushed while everyone else laughed.
A dripping wet fourteen year old slid across the polished stones of the veranda and came to a stop as he hit the lounge chair. He tumbled forward and ended up in the middle of Daniel and Tom. Wide eyes looked up into green eyes and gray eyes.
“Harry! Draco!” he exclaimed. Gathering his wits, Allaoua quickly struggled to his feet. “Sorry,” he said sheepishly. Daniel stood quickly and pulled the boy into a hug.
“Remember, Allaoua, we’re only Harry and Draco in the movies. He’s Tom and I’m Daniel.” Allaoua gulped and blushed. He hung his head a moment then looked back up excitedly.
“Can I see your Nimbus 2000?” Daniel rolled his eyes. It was a glorious morning at the Vladimir Estate. The sun shone brightly. The bacon and eggs were perfect. The conversation was light and the company was good. The looming troubles were all but forgotten. Tom was back with Daniel. Will had found what was missing in his life. Allaoua was safe from Malin’s kidnappers. Starr, despite his father’s cruel torture was happy again. Yes, everything seemed to be right with the world … for the moment. It was the calm before the inevitable storm.
“Ceenta, I wanted to ask you something,” Daniel said as he caught Ceenta by the arm. The rest of the group was making their way toward showers and fresh clothes.
“Sure, Daniel. What’s up?”
“Last night,” Daniel started as he pulled Ceenta toward to veranda wall. The young actor and the vampire leaned against the cool stone. “Last night, the man that appeared in front of the fireplace … do you remember?”
“I don’t remember anything that happened, Daniel. I wish I did, but I don’t. Actually, I’m glad you asked. Tom certainly changed his, ah, view on things when it was all over.” Daniel smiled as he remembered the night before.
“You disappeared into a cloud of smoke and a man appeared. He focused his attention on Tom. I tried to protect him, but I couldn’t move. Then lightning bolts came from the man’s fingers and hip Tom in the head.” Ceenta eyes grew wide. “Then he said something like Perceptum, Accipio conscienta.” Ceenta gasped.
“That’s a very old spell. It means something like accept knowledge.” Daniel nodded.
“He also said that he was the responsibility and the inheritor.” At this point, Ceenta staggered back from the wall and sank into a nearby chair. “If I’m not too far off the mark, I’d say the man was …”
“Merlin,” Ceenta said breathlessly.
“Exactly.” Ceenta stood abruptly. He walked back over to the wall and looked out at the vast forest that made up his estate. Daniel was suddenly concerned by the shocked look on Ceenta’s face.
“Daniel,” Ceenta said slowly as he turned to face the young actor. “This is big.” Daniel nodded in agreement. “I mean, this is really big. Something has happened to bring Merlin back. I mean, he’s always been here, but he’s never made an appearance. I’m going to have to think about this. I know I’m the heir of the responsibility, his responsibility. And I know that responsibility has been passed down through the ages, but never in the history of my family has Merlin himself made an appearance.”
“Perhaps it has to do with dark magic and Malin,” suggested Daniel.
“No, I don’t think so. Merlin came and directed his attention to Tom. He cast a spell so Tom would understand … you.” Ceenta turned and faced Daniel. “This has to do with you, Daniel. He wouldn’t show up just to make someone understand vampires.” Ceenta grabbed Daniel by the shoulders. He was almost in a panic.
“What!?!”
“Daniel, don’t you see. Merlin came because of you! He wants you to be happy. I don’t know why, but it all points to that. You are important to the inheritance.”
“He came because of me?” whispered Daniel. Ceenta sighed and looked out again at the forest.
“Yes. I’m convinced out it now. Somehow, Daniel, you fit into the grand scheme of things. Somehow, you are going to make a difference in the inheritance. There can be no other explanation.”

~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~ ~

A hooded figure made his way down the long drive. Weeds grew through the cracks and vines had overtaken the once ornate shrubbery. The figure’s face was set with a frown. Wisps of gray hair blew gently in the morning air as he reached the front gate. He looked back for a moment at the castle that had been his home and his place of employment for more than fifty years. There was no regret and no remorse as he clanged the gate shut behind him. Everything had been fine until Starr had come of age and declared his orientation. That’s when things started to go downhill. The staff slowly, one by one, quit due to the master’s volatile anger. He was the only one left. Now the master would be on his own. As the old man made his way down the sidewalk he couldn’t help but wonder why his master had become so angry. Sure, no parent wants a gay child, but you still love them, no matter what. It’s the hard life ahead of them that you worry about, not your own reputation. The old man shrugged his shoulders and sighed a deep sigh. Everything he knew, everything that was comfortable, everything that was home … he was leaving behind. He just couldn’t take it anymore. Something had to be done and he was determined something was going to happen. The evil the was growing in the place he called home had to be stopped. There was only one person the old man could think of that could help … the heir of responsibility.