The Children of Light
Book Two
Chapter Ten
This piece of fiction contains supernatural themes and sexual interactions between consenting male adults. Please do not read this if it is illegal where you are, or you are not of age to do so.
All characters are fictional and any similarities to known actual people are coincidental, unless otherwise specified.
Visit the blog to see visualisations of the characters throughout the story. As always your feedback is important and always welcome.
Lachlan - [email protected] or [email protected]
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‘So you’ve had this dream before?’ Mrs. Braddock asked of her son, concern colouring her voice.
‘Sì Mamma. And before, I would never remember them. But when I woke this morning, I remembered it clearly and vividly. And then the other dreams came rushing back.’ Alex answered with a worried sigh.
‘And you say the end of the dream always changes.’ Aurelia questioned.
‘Sì. Every time, either something changed, something someone said, or my perspective of the dream changed. Like, I was watching from a different person’s viewpoint.’ The Italian answered as his fear grew slightly.
‘There is a chance it could be prophetic…’ Mrs. Braddock began to speak and then trailed off into silence. ‘Let’s go and speak with Caiden. He’s the precognitive. He might know something about this.’ Aurelia and Alex walked companionably but swiftly to the private cabin of the twins, which they shared with their father, Grayson, and now the mage Tristan.
‘Hello Tristan, is Caiden here?’ Alex asked as the mage opened the door.
‘Sure, would you like to come in?’ Tristan said as he stepped back allowing the two entrances.
‘Actually, we might go for a walk.’ Caiden said coming to the door with a look of concern on his face. Tristan nodded as the blond twin stepped outside and walked quickly with the Italian and his mother.
‘Interesting that you would start to remember them now, rather than earlier.’ Caiden began as they walked into the darkened path leading to the Circle.
‘Why do you say that?’ Alex queried.
‘Usually a precognitive will remember them, but does not understand what they are. It’s as if the premonitions were pushed out of your memory in an effort to preserve your sanity, as it were.’ The blond twin stated. They settled down on a few of the log seats, Mrs. Braddock seated as comfortably as she could manage on the hard seat.
‘So why am I having these “dreams”?’ Alex started.
‘Please tell me you haven’t forgotten the powers you have Alex?’ Caiden smiled gently. ‘You hold in you the powers of telepathy, telekinesis, empathy and precognition. You are having these dreams because you are receiving a warning. They are not dreams. They are premonitions.’ Caiden explained softly.
‘How do you know?’ Mrs. Braddock interrupted politely.
‘Because I have them all the time.’ Caiden answered simply. ‘What I find most curious about this is, while I am at the Sanctuary, with Lachlan’s protections and preventions, I don’t have premonitions.’
‘That doesn’t quite explain why I have them here. I mean, we can all use some of our telekinetic abilities here.’ Alex rebutted.
'True enough, but as far as I’m aware, none of us can use telepathy, except those of us who have a telepathic rapport with another person. Lachlan has one with Rama, I have one with Jaden. You have one with Quinn. Only Lachlan is capable of initiating telepathic conversations with other people in the Sanctuary.’ The twin explained looking at Aurelia who was blushing slightly.
‘Ah, just the other morning I was able to sense everyone in the Sanctuary. I even used my telepathy to communicate with Nikolai.’ Alex interjected.
‘Interesting.’ Caiden said, peering inquisitively at the Italian.
‘And I’ve seen others using their telepathy here as well. It’s not just me.’ Alex stated.
‘I’ll look into that.’ Caiden said. ‘As for you having the premonition here, and mine not coming at all, I think that’s because the warning you are receiving is of great importance. May I share the premonition with you?’ The blond queried politely. Alex nodded, closed his eyes and shared his memories of the dreams with the twin. Caiden gasped dramatically, slapping a hand to his chest.
‘Is something wrong?’ Alex asked, reaching out and taking the blond’s shoulders in his hands. Caiden’s eyes were flickering rapidly as he attempted to make sense of the dreams.
‘Alex… Lachlan… no… Rama!’ The blond twin mumbled almost incoherently.
‘Mamma?’ Alex called out loudly, Mrs. Braddock appearing beside her son instantly, helping him lower the twin to the ground carefully. Caiden sat down at first, still babbling to himself and then fell limp on his back. Alex stood swiftly and took a step to the entrance, going to get Lachlan when the man himself walked into the Circle with determined steps toward them.
‘I don’t know what happened.’ Alex pleaded as the Leader appeared beside him, his face softening noticeably as he assessed Alex’s panic.
‘It’s alright Alex.’ Lachlan said as he released the Italian and knelt beside Caiden. He reached out and placed a hand on either side of the blond’s face and closed his eyes in concentration.
‘Will he be alright?’ Aurelia asked of the Leader after a few moments of silence.
‘He will be fine.’ Lachlan said with closed eyes. ‘I’m just modifying his memories slightly and removing the thoughts he extracted from Alex.’ The Italian flushed bright red at these words, thinking he had done this damage. ‘It is not your fault Alex. I need to get Caiden to a bed with Monica and Rama. We can talk when Caiden is resting.’ In the blink of an eye, Lachlan was on his feet and had Caiden slung across his arms, walking at preternatural speed from the Circle, leaving Aurelia and Alex alone and worried.
‘Come and see me in ten minutes Alex.’ The Leader said to Alex telepathically, the Italian feeling a calm settling over him.
‘Mamma, I need to find Quinn.’ Alex said to his mother.
‘No worries my darling.’ Aurelia said, watching her son racing from the Circle.
‘Grayson, might I borrow you for a few moments?’ Aurelia asked both aloud and in her mind.
‘On my way Aurelia.’ Grayson replied telepathically.
Mrs. Braddock was standing near the path waiting anxiously for Grayson to arrive. She was wringing her hands with worry when the man stepped into the Circle.
‘My dear, whatever is the matter?’ Grayson asked easily seeing the grave worry in Mrs. Braddock.
‘Grayson, I need my sisters here. Will you take me to them and bring us all back here?’ Aurelia asked, her voice breaking slightly as her eyes misted with unfallen tears. Grayson took Mrs. Braddock warmly into his arms and whisked her out of sight.
‘Caiden is resting and is out of danger.’ Lachlan said happily as he sat beside his husband in the small circle of people gathered. ‘Alex, you must know that this isn’t your fault.’
‘I still feel guilty about it.’ The Italian said sadly as his husband tightened his arms around the thick neck.
‘Well, no more guilt okay?’ Lachlan said with a warm smile. ‘However, I would like to know more about these dreams of yours.’
‘What would you like to know?’ Alex asked sadly. He looked around the people gathered and spotted the Leader’s husband, Rama, Jaden, Grayson and Monica.
‘How long have you been having them?’ Lachlan asked kindly.
‘On and off for a few years now. Ever since I got these powers.’ The Italian answered honestly looking at his hands, as if that’s where his abilities were.
‘And why haven’t you told anyone about them before?’ The Leader queried.
‘Because until this morning, I haven’t remembered them.’ Alex answered.
‘When I saw them, though they always seemed to be of the same event, they seemed to change slightly.’ The Leader began.
‘Yes, always some small detail changed, or my perspective changed.’ The Italian stated.
‘I wonder why you’re receiving this warning, and why my protections aren’t stopping them.’ Lachlan asked, more of himself than anyone else.
'I think I know the answer to that.’ Aurelia said as she and her sisters sat themselves in the small gathering. The aunts both smiled warmly to Alex and Quinn.
‘Aurelia?’ Lachlan questioned.
‘Precognition isn’t just a Children of Light ability. We Stregheria are precognitive as well.’ Aurelia began. ‘In my family, I am the precognitive.’
‘I know that now. That prophecy you proclaimed when we had caught the demon.’ Lachlan said politely.
‘The Stregheria have an element of protection from your abilities, your mind control, for example, much like you have a protection from our elemental abilities, the fact that Alex has your version of precognition, he is the son of a precognitive…’
‘Alex’s premonitions are not stopped by my protections in the Sanctuary.’ Lachlan finished.
‘Also, he has a telepathic connection with the Holy, the strongest, most revered of the Stregheria, who has precognitive abilities of his own.’ Aurelia ammeded.
‘Well, that explains why Alex has been receiving them.’ The Leader said satisfied with that answer. ‘He is saturated in precognitive abilities. But that does not explain the importance of the warning.’
‘Importance of the warning?’ Alex asked with a strained voice. ‘I think the importance is pretty bloody obvious. I die!’
‘Not necessarily.’ Lachlan said, as Aurelia, Giuliana and Francesca all nodded in agreement.
‘Most precognitives seldom have premonitions about themselves. In fact, I don’t think I’ve heard of it happening.’ Francesca said confidently.
‘Neither have I.’ Lachlan said in agreement. ‘I think it’s safe to say that you won’t be dying Alex, well, not by the means this warning is showing.’
‘Is it my imagination, or is that field he’s in familiar?’ Rama asked of his husband.
‘It’s just a field like every other field mo chridhe.’ The Leader answered. ‘I think its best that we put this aside for the time being. Alex, I will teach you some things that might help with lessening the premonition’s occurrence.’
Alex nodded in agreement, although he wanted to further discuss the possibilities.
‘Come, let’s get some food.’ Lachlan said cheerily as everyone got to their feet.
‘At this rate, it might be prudent to build another cabin.’ Rama said cheekily. ‘You three seem to be here as often as we are.’
‘Oh, you great big shit.’ Aurelia laughed as she slapped Rama’s arm gently, the Egyptian wrapping his arm around Mrs. Braddock’s waist and hugging her to his side.
‘Alex? Gabriel and I were thinking about going out for dinner and a movie tonight and wanted to know if you and Quinn wanted to come with us?’ Giorgio asked of his cousin. Alex smiled warmly and nodded.
‘I think that would be a great idea.’ Alex said smiling. ‘I’ll go and make sure it’s okay with Quinn.’
‘Wait cousin. Maybe Mikhail and Fabz can come too? Nikolai as well if he’s up for it?’
‘I’ll ask Mickey and Fabz, but, I don’t think Nikolai would be too keen on being a spare wheel.’ Alex said slightly saddened.
‘I heard dinner and a movie.’ Caiden said with a smile as he approached the two cousins.
‘Sì. I was asking Alex if he and Quinn wanted to join us for a movie and dinner, and Mikhail, Fabrizio and Nikolai as well. But Nikolai might feel a bit left out.’
‘Oh, easily remedied. I will be Nikolai’s date.’ The blond twin said with a bright smile of enthusiasm. Alex laughed quickly and dragged Caiden by the arm off to find everyone.
‘Is Nikolai… you know?’ Alex asked of the blond twin.
‘I don’t know to be honest. But the man needs some outside of Sanctuary time, and if I can help relieve him of his “spare wheel” feeling, then who am I to not help out?’ Caiden answered as Alex continued to drag him across the gathering field to the private cabins.
‘I think we all need some normal time.’ Alex sighed heavily as they approached his private cabin and walked inside. Caiden gently yet firmly stopped Alex with a hand against his shoulder and stepped into the middle of the room smiling to Nikolai.
‘Nikolai, tonight some of us are going into town for a meal and a movie and I wondered if perhaps you would like to come along with me, as I do not have a date.’ The twin asked of the Russian in perfect and precise Russian.
‘What did he say?’ Fabrizio whispered to his boyfriend.
‘Oh shit.’ Alex said, slapping his forehead and waving the same hand in front of himself. ‘I forgot about the translation.’
‘It matters not.’ Caiden said with a wink to Alex. ‘I am fluent in several languages, Russian being one of them.’
‘You speak perfect Russian blond one. I would be delighted to accompany you to dinner and a movie.’ Nikolai said with a huge smile as he stood up carefully. Caiden was immediately in front of him helping him to his feet and holding him steady.
‘I will help you through tonight.’ Caiden whispered to the man as he telekinetically enhanced himself and Nikolai. ‘My strength shall be yours.’
‘Spasibo.’ Nikolai nodded and hugged the blond twin gently.
‘Alright boys, let’s all get tidied up and meet in two hours at the Veil.’ Alex announced to the room, as most everyone scattered out of the living area to get ready.
‘Get back here mia creatura!’ Mrs. Braddock snapped to her son. Alex walked back shamefaced as his mother reached up and hugged him tenderly. ‘You be careful, and look after everyone.’
‘Sì Mamma.’ Alex said quietly, kissing his mother on the cheek.
‘You make sure all my boys are safe.’ Francesca said flanking her sister and pinching her nephew on the cheek. Giuliana was hugging Quinn with motherly affection.
‘I promise you all, we will all be safe.’ Alex said, exasperatedly as his mother finally released him.
‘Have a good night.’ Mrs. Braddock said, waving to the men she considered her sons.
‘Do you really think it wise letting them out after today ‘Relia?’ Francesca asked quietly of her sister as she too watched the boys departing.
‘I don’t think any harm can come to them in such a big group. They will watch out for each other.’ Aurelia answered honestly. ‘And just between the three of us, I don’t think Alex is the one in trouble.’
‘Well, that’s a given, but who?’ Giuliana asked.
‘I don’t know, but, judging by the frequency of the dreams, I’d say we’ll be finding out relatively soon.’ Aurelia said grimly, turning from the Veil and walking back to the guest cabin.
‘Where are we?’ Nikolai asked as they appeared in the middle of a central town park.
‘This is the town that we live in when we aren’t at the Sanctuary.’ Alex said, smiling to Nikolai as the group of men made their way out of the park. ‘We live a little out of town now, but I used to run through this park nearly every morning.’
‘I do believe this is the park that Jaden was following you through the morning you thought someone was watching you.’ Caiden said looking around at the trees.
‘So it was him. I always wondered, but never asked.’ Alex said with a small chuckle. ‘He scared the shit out of me.’
‘He does seem to have that effect on people.’ Caiden laughed; an unusual sound to those who’ve spent considerable time with the blond twin.
‘There’s a rather nice restaurant just over there that I thought we might go to.’ Alex said, pointing to a corner, a warm light flooding out through the windows.
‘Looks good.’ Caiden said with a nod as he and Nikolai led the way out of the park and across the road.
‘We’ve been here before.’ Giorgio said under his breath, unsure how Gabriel was going to take this.
‘I remember they had nice food.’ The Brazilian said with a laugh as his stomach growled in agreement. The eight men filed through the door, and with the flicker of an eyelid, Caiden convinced the maître d’ that there was a reservation for the group and they were seated immediately in an out of the way corner, the couples arranging themselves to sit side by side; Caiden sitting to the right of Quinn, with Nikolai to his right, who was to the left of Mikhail.
‘Good evening, gentlemen. Would you like something to drink?’ A tall, thin waiter asked as he approached the table with a smile on his face.
‘Four bottles of Riesling please.’ Alex announced with a smile as the waiter bowed slightly and backed away.
The eight men sat quietly talking amongst themselves, perusing the menu’s, while a server brought the four bottles of wine and two bottles of chilled water to the table, pouring eight glasses of wine.
‘Are you ready to order?’ The waiter asked as the group sipped their wine. Alex began ordering and everyone followed suit, noting that the waiter didn’t write anything down.
‘Your meals will be with you soon, and I’ll be right back with your starters.’ The waiter said with a slight bow as he walked toward the kitchen. Alex stood up and cleared his throat, picking up his wine glass. The seven men remained seated and lifted their glasses.
‘What a week.’ Alex said with a puff of air. ‘It’s good to have you back big guy.’ He said nodding to Mikhail. ‘And it’s nice to have you with us as well Nikolai. I hope you’re happy here.’ He said to a small round of cheers. ‘Giorgio, I am so happy that things turned out better for you, and Gabriel, welcome to the family, properly.’ Alex raised his glass slightly. ‘And to you my love, I don’t think I could have done this without you right beside me.’ The Italian said as Quinn got to his feet and the two men embraced. Sitting down again, everyone fell into quieted conversation waiting for their food.
‘Are you alright neteru?’ Rama asked as he approached his husband who was sitting on a newly created tree stump near the River.
‘Just taking a moment.’ The Leader said with closed eyes, his face tilted upward, bathed in moonlight. He exhaled slowly and opened his eyes, looking up into the handsome, shadowed face of his husband.
‘Did I interrupt?’ The Egyptian said, reaching a hand out and stroking Lachlan’s cheek with his thumb.
‘No mo chridhe. I was just trying to clear my mind.’ The Leader said quietly. He reached up and taking hold of his husband’s hand pulled himself up. Rama yanked slightly and caught the man in his arms.
‘You were never very good at lying to me neteru.’ Rama said softly as he carried the man up the slope back toward the buildings.
‘I know my love, but this I have to keep from you.’ The Leader said equally as quiet as his husband. ‘No good will come of you knowing.’
‘I trust you.’ Rama said, kissing his husband on the forehead.
‘Thank you my love. That means a lot to me.’ Lachlan said as his husband walked steadily on.
‘Are you ready for bed?’ Rama asked softly.
‘Yes mo chridhe.’ Lachlan purred happily.
‘What a gorgeous dinner.’ Caiden said happily as the group of men exited the restaurant.
‘It was lovely.’ Nikolai said contentedly.
‘I think I might pass on the movie guys.’ Alex said to the group as he pulled his husband in for a cuddle.
‘Us too.’ Mikhail said, hugging Fabrizio to himself.
‘Alright, we can always go another time.’ Giorgio said as Gabriel lifted his boyfriend’s hand and kissed it tenderly.
‘I am rather tired.’ Nikolai said, stifling a yawn.
‘Home to bed then folks.’ Caiden said, taking Nikolai’s hand and walking across the road to the central park. Once they were sure they weren’t being watched, the men disappeared in a flurry of wind and appeared in front of the Veil.
‘Thank you Caiden.’ Nikolai said as they walked through the curtain of leaves.
‘You’re so very welcome.’ Caiden responded as they walked toward Alex’s private cabin.
‘And here we are.’ The blond twin said as they reached the door of Alex’s cabin.
‘You are a wonderful date.’ Nikolai said warmly as he leaned over and kissed the twin on the cheek.
‘Just glad you had a good night.’ Caiden said, blushing slightly as Alex watched on curiously.
‘We’ll have to do it again soon.’ Nikolai said, turning to enter the cabin, but not before Caiden, Alex and Mikhail all saw him blush bright pink. Caiden smiled to himself and turned on his feet, saluting the group of men in farewell and heading off into the darkness.
‘What was that all about?’ Alex asked of Mikhail, who looked equally as confused.
‘No idea mate.’ Mikhail said, gesturing for Alex to go inside.
‘Alex, wake up.’ The Leader said firmly. ‘ALEX!’
‘What?’ Alex called out as he sat bolt upright in the bed, his husband, the Leader and his husband in different states of undress looking at the Italian, but what jolted him the most was every item of furniture in the bedroom slamming onto the floor.
‘You were dreaming.’ Lachlan said gently, placing his palm against the Italian’s sweat drenched forehead.
‘You were lifting everything in the room.’ Quinn said meekly from the end of the bed, his body language showing fear. ‘Even me.’
Alex looked at his husband and saw the fear on plain display and he immediately began to tear up.
‘I’m sorry.’ Alex sobbed through tears, knowing that he could have hurt his husband. Lachlan was the first to react, swooping in and pulling Alex’s head to his chest.
‘Shush. That’s enough.’ He said, petting the Italian’s damp hair while looking at Quinn. ‘We know you didn’t do it on purpose.’ The blond shuffled nervously around the bed to stand beside Lachlan, Rama at his back. He reached out and took Alex’s hand in his own.
‘It’s alright babe.’ Quinn said quietly. Alex’s face emerged from Lachlan’s bare chest, his bloodshot eyes rimmed with tears.
‘I’m sorry Quinn.’ Alex sobbed. ‘I’m so sorry.’
‘It’s alright, my love. I’m not hurt.’ Quinn said softly, climbing onto the bed carefully and kneeling between Alex’s legs. The Leader released the Italian and stepped back to his husband’s waiting arms as Alex and Quinn embraced.
‘What were you dreaming about?’ Quinn asked carefully, Alex’s body tensing immediately.
‘It was that dream again. It has lasted longer this time. And I was seeing it from your point of view.’ He said looking into Quinn’s eyes. ‘I was heartbroken, distraught. I lashed out at everyone around me.’
Lachlan scanned Alex’s thoughts and saw the recollection himself, gasping internally at the shock of it. Rama’s arm flexed involuntarily as he shared the vision with his husband. Quinn, still wrapped in the strong arms of the Italian closed his eyes and gave himself to his husband.
‘We’ll give you some space.’ Lachlan said softly as he and his husband left the room, leaving Alex, still crying, and Quinn to themselves.
‘It’s getting worse.’ Rama said as the door closed behind him.
‘Mmm.’ Lachlan said deep in thought. ‘It must be getting closer.’
‘Are we ready for this? Can we do it?’ Rama said, not entirely confident in his words.
‘We don’t really have a choice, do we?’ The Leader responded quietly.
‘I suppose not.’ The Egyptian replied sadly.
‘I need a moment.’ Lachlan said, embracing his husband briefly before disappearing outside.
‘Your new homes.’ Rama said happily gesturing to the three new cabins he had supervised the construction of. The group of mages all cheered excitedly as they made their way inside and looked around.
‘Well done.’ Lachlan said, leaning into his husband, a smile lingering about his mouth.
‘Least I could do.’ The Egyptian said with a laugh.
‘Aren’t you due to leave soon?’ Lachlan said softly, his arm snaking around the trim waist of the taller man.
‘Tomorrow morning I’ll head over.’ Rama said, kissing the top of the Leader’s head.
‘Maybe you should pass on your duties to one of the other priests?’ Lachlan said coyly. ‘I don’t like it when you’re away.’
‘It’s only for a week neteru.’ Rama said, giggling at his husband’s words. ‘You know I can’t abandon my responsibilities any more than you can yours.’
‘It’s fun to think about.’ Lachlan laughed, his husband giggling with him.
‘What are you two laughing about?’ Quinn asked as he walked toward the couple.
‘Oh nothing, just being irresponsible leaders.’ Lachlan said humorously. ‘Rama is off on his pilgrimage tomorrow. Part of his responsibilities as the High Priest of Ra.’
‘Oh wow. Do you do that often?’ Quinn asked of the tall Egyptian.
‘Every year. It’s an old custom, but I enjoy it.’ Rama said smiling to the blond.
‘May I come along next time?’ Quinn asked hopefully. ‘I’d like to come this year, but Alex wants to go home shortly.’
‘Absolutely.’ Rama smiled.
‘Why don’t you guys come over for dinner when you get back?’ Quinn invited of the Leader and his husband.
‘That would be lovely.’ Lachlan said, reaching out and squeezing the blond’s shoulder.
‘I’d better go find Alex and help him get ready.’ The blond said with a smile. ‘See you guys later.’ He waved as he walked back to find Alex.
‘Right, let’s get these guys settled in and I’ll go find out what’s for dinner.’ Lachlan said squeezing his husband tight.
‘Wow, it’s good to be home.’ Alex said happily as he walked through the back door, Quinn follows, Mikhail, Fabrizio and Nikolai after him.
‘Mickey, would you like to show Nikolai to the spare room?’
‘This way Nicky.’ Mikhail said cheerily as he made for the stairs. Alex waved a hand and his and Quinn’s luggage vanished, apparently upstairs to their bedroom.
‘Let’s order dinner in tonight babe. I can’t be arsed cooking.’ The Italian said with a laugh.
‘I’ll take care of dinner. You go and sit.’ Quinn said, gesturing for Alex to move to the lounge. The blond moved to the counter top and picked up the phone, dialling the number of a nearby fast food restaurant and watched his spirit pup gallivanting around the back yard.
‘Hello, can I place an order please?’ Quinn said into the phone as Mikhail, Fabrizio and Nikolai came down the stairs and went into the lounge. ‘That’s me. Yes. Thank you. See you soon.’
‘I think we order too much from them.’ Quinn said, laughing as he walked into the lounge. ‘Didn’t even need to tell them what I wanted.’ Everyone laughed at this.
‘Welcome to our home Nikolai.’ Alex said with a cheerful smile for the smallest of the Russian’s.
‘Spasibo Alex.’ Nikolai said with a flush of colour to his face. ‘It is nice to be in a home. I know the Sanctuary is a safe place, but, this is a home.’ He said looking about the lounge.
‘I know what you mean.’ Mikhail said with a giggle.
‘I think I should probably head into work tomorrow.’ Alex said sighing.
‘As should I.’ Mikhail nodded. ‘I hope everything is alright at the home.’
‘I’m sure it is big guy. You did a great job staffing it.’ The Italian said with a smile.
‘Still, I can’t wait to see everyone. Perhaps you can come visit?’ He asked of his friend.
‘I’ll bring him over around lunch time.’ Quinn interrupted. ‘Let him settle in here first.’
‘DA!’ Mikhail said, standing up. ‘Wine?’
Alex, Quinn, Fabrizio and Quinn practically shouted in reply as Mikhail trotted to the kitchen, collecting glasses and bottles for all.
'To Nikolai. Welcome to your new home.’ Alex announced as everyone raised their glasses in the smaller Russian’s honour.
After a few minutes, the door bell rung, Alex answers it and takes the food from the delivery person. He placed the food on the table as Quinn collected some plates and cutlery and set them beside the food. The married couple stood back and watched as the three remaining men helped themselves to food. Eventually all five men were seated and eating.
‘Who the hell could that be?’ Alex said, getting off the sofa and walking toward the front door. He pulled the door open and the look of shock slipped off his face. ‘Mamma, what are you…?’ Alex began, but was silenced by the man who stepped into the light.
‘Hello Alex.’
‘Callum. What’s wrong?’ The Italian asked cautiously scanning the darkened front yard for signs of invasion.
‘Caro, invite us in, it’s cold out here.’ Mrs. Braddock said shivering slightly. Alex stepped back and let his mother and cousin inside, closing the door behind him. He gestured for them to come into the living area and sit.
‘Hi everyone.’ Callum said shyly waving to the people sitting down. His greeting was returned warmly.
‘What’s going on?’ Alex asked of his mother and cousin.
‘Bambino why must something be wrong?’ Aurelia chided her son politely.
‘I’m sorry Alex, I didn’t mean to intrude, but, I was wondering if I might perhaps stay with you for a bit?’ The Brit asked meekly. Alex looked him over carefully and turned to his mother.
‘Callum is still a little shell shocked about what happened, and feels safer with you.’ Mrs. Braddock explained delicately. ‘And besides, who wants to hang around with their boring old aunt anyway?’ She added humorously.
‘I’m sorry Aunty Aurelia. I don’t mean to offend you.’ Callum said contritely staring at his hands. Alex was sitting beside his cousin instantly, an arm around his shoulders protectively.
‘I’m sorry Callum, it didn’t even occur to me. Of course you can stay here.’ Alex said, looking to his husband who was nodding affirmatively. A smile played across the blond’s lips as he glanced to Nikolai.
‘They have something in common.’ The blond laughed internally, his husband picking up on the trail of his thoughts.
‘Do you have a bag with you?’ Alex asked, looking for his mother who shook her head. ‘Oh well, I’m sure we can find some clothes you can borrow. Quinn can take you shopping tomorrow for some clothes.’ Callum looked up to the blond who was smiling that fantastic smile he had.
‘Thank you Alex.’ Callum said softly, looking back to his hands sitting in his lap.
‘Callum, I’d like you to meet Nikolai.’ Quinn said, standing up and holding a hand out to Alex’s British cousin who stood up and took the proffered hand. ‘Nikolai, this is Alex’s cousin Callum.’ The two men shook hands politely, offering each other a small smile.
‘Pleasure to meet you.’ Callum said as Nikolai nodded.
‘Nikolai is a friend of Mikhail. He was kidnapped by the Order and we rescued him with Mikhail.’ Quinn said softly as Callum looked into the face of the smaller Russian, tears rimming his eyes. Nikolai nodded solemnly, affirming Quinn’s statement.
‘I’m sorry.’ Callum gasped softly. ‘My brother is the head of the Order.’ He finished almost in a whisper.
‘It’s alright.’ Nikolai said, reaching out and squeezing the Brit’s shoulder tenderly.
‘He kept me shackled up in a dungeon for a few months.’ Callum admitted as a tear fell down his cheek. Nikolai reached out and wiped the tear away with a thumb as he gestured for Callum to sit beside him. The two men sat down and quietly spoke to each other whilst everyone else returned to normal conversation.
‘How did you guys get here?’ Alex asked of his mother.
‘I drove us here.’ Aurelia answered.
‘Would you like me to take you home, or maybe you’d like to spend the night?’ Alex offered.
‘No bambino, I’ll drive home. It’s no worry.’ Mrs. Braddock said happily. ‘This one was following me around like a scared puppy, so I thought I’d bring him here.’ Callum who had looked over just then, flushed bright pink and returned to his quieted conversation with Nikolai.
‘Alright Mamma.’ Alex said as his mother stood up. ‘Drive safely.’
‘Always do bambino.’ Mrs. Braddock said as she opened the door and stepped outside, Alex following her. ‘He’s fragile at the moment. Show him that not all his family is psychotic, caro.’
‘Of course Mamma.’ Alex replied, hugging his mother. Aurelia walked down the front steps and moved swiftly to her car. Alex waved farewell and went back inside, closing and locking the door behind him.
‘Alright, so where are we gonna sleep everyone?’ Alex asked when he sat back down.
‘You have queen size bed in the guest room, da?’ Nikolai asked of the Italian, who nodded. ‘If it’s okay with Callum, I don’t mind sharing.’
‘Callum?’ Alex queried.
‘That’s fine by me.’ The Brit answered cheerily.
‘Alright, we’ll make a better plan of it tomorrow.’ Alex smiled, looking over the small portion of his family. Quinn snuggled in beside his husband and sighed happily.
‘It’s nice having a full house.’ The blond said softly, burying his face in the Italian’s armpit.
‘It is, isn’t it?’ Alex replied as he mulled over the feeling of having so many people living with him. ‘I don’t miss living by myself.’
‘That’s good.’ Quinn said from the Italian’s armpit.
‘I’m so nearly ready for bed.’ Alex whispered to the top of the blond head.
‘Me too.’ Quinn said, nodding his head.
‘We’re going to bed guys.’ Alex said to everyone as Quinn came up for air with a goofy smile on his face. Mikhail winked at him suggestively.
‘We may as well go to bed too zàyka.’ Mikhail said to Fabrizio, who was wrapped around the giant’s waist somehow.
‘You guys off to bed?’ Alex asked of his cousin and the smaller Russian.
‘I might stay up for bit longer.’ Nikolai said with a smile looking to Callum who was sitting slightly away from the Russian, but leaning in quite closely. The Brit nodded as well and smiled to his cousin.
‘I’ll stay up a little as well.’ Callum said cheerily. Alex smiled and stood up, helping Quinn to his feet as well. Mikhail, carrying Fabrizio, was already halfway to the stairs as Alex and Quinn made their way over. Quinn walked up the stairs first and Alex stopped in the darkness and watched his cousin and Mikhail’s friend on the couch, talking intimately with each other.
‘If I didn’t know any better, I’d say those two are going to be quite close.’ Alex whispered more to himself than anyone else.
‘I’d say you’re right my love.’ Quinn replied a few feet away from his husband. Alex looked and saw Quinn hanging over the stair rail, looking back into the lounge. ‘They do make a rather handsome couple, no?’ Alex snorted quietly and nodded in agreement, then remembered it was dark and Quinn probably couldn’t see him.
‘I guess they do.’ He said. ‘Let’s go to bed.’
‘Good morning Alex, Quinn.’ A voice called softly from their door, followed by a hollow knock, as if echoing from a deep hole.
‘What was that?’ Alex gasped as he woke up suddenly, lurching out of the bed.
‘What now?’ Quinn asked, sitting up, his eyes still closed with sleep.
‘I’m so sorry to have woken you.’ The voice called from the door. ‘Do you mind if I come in?’
‘Who is that?’ Alex asked, rubbing his eyes aggressively in an attempt to wake himself up.
‘It’s me, Lachlan, sort of.’ He answered mysteriously.
‘Ah sure, come in.’ Alex said, sitting up slightly, the blond attempting to rouse himself. The Leader walked through the closed door and at first Alex didn’t notice anything different.
‘Sorry about that.’ The Leader’s voice echoed strangely. Alex shook his head in a dog like manner, trying to clear his ears.
‘I can’t hear you properly.’ Alex said, yawning slightly, his eyes still not focussed on Lachlan. The smoky image of the Leader took a step closer to the bed and laughed.
‘That’s possibly because I’m not really here. I’m projecting.’ Lachlan giggled quietly.
‘Oh, what can we do for you?’ The Italian said shrugging his shoulders.
‘Well, two reasons I’m here. Firstly, Quinn, a few of the mages have asked if you would be kind enough to visit them today. They have something they would like you to have. A gift as it were.’ The Leader said happily. Quinn’s eyes focussed on the smaller man’s face which was smiling at them.
‘Sure, I’ll be there by lunchtime if that’s alright?’ The blond replied.
‘Actually, the second reason for my being here might make that easier. I wondered if you would all like to come for dinner tonight.’ He said looking slightly sad. ‘With Ramz gone, it’s a little lonely.’
‘Of course we’ll come for dinner.’ Alex said immediately. ‘We have a few house guests, if it’s alright to bring them as well?’
‘Of course it is.’ Lachlan said with a smile. ‘The more the merrier.’ The Leader said happily.
‘Alright, we’ll be there just before sundown.’ Alex said with a smile.
‘See you guys then.’
All characters are fictional and any similarities to known actual people are coincidental, unless otherwise specified.
Visit the blog to see visualisations of the characters throughout the story. As always your feedback is important and always welcome.
Lachlan - [email protected] or [email protected]
***
‘So you’ve had this dream before?’ Mrs. Braddock asked of her son, concern colouring her voice.
‘Sì Mamma. And before, I would never remember them. But when I woke this morning, I remembered it clearly and vividly. And then the other dreams came rushing back.’ Alex answered with a worried sigh.
‘And you say the end of the dream always changes.’ Aurelia questioned.
‘Sì. Every time, either something changed, something someone said, or my perspective of the dream changed. Like, I was watching from a different person’s viewpoint.’ The Italian answered as his fear grew slightly.
‘There is a chance it could be prophetic…’ Mrs. Braddock began to speak and then trailed off into silence. ‘Let’s go and speak with Caiden. He’s the precognitive. He might know something about this.’ Aurelia and Alex walked companionably but swiftly to the private cabin of the twins, which they shared with their father, Grayson, and now the mage Tristan.
‘Hello Tristan, is Caiden here?’ Alex asked as the mage opened the door.
‘Sure, would you like to come in?’ Tristan said as he stepped back allowing the two entrances.
‘Actually, we might go for a walk.’ Caiden said coming to the door with a look of concern on his face. Tristan nodded as the blond twin stepped outside and walked quickly with the Italian and his mother.
‘Interesting that you would start to remember them now, rather than earlier.’ Caiden began as they walked into the darkened path leading to the Circle.
‘Why do you say that?’ Alex queried.
‘Usually a precognitive will remember them, but does not understand what they are. It’s as if the premonitions were pushed out of your memory in an effort to preserve your sanity, as it were.’ The blond twin stated. They settled down on a few of the log seats, Mrs. Braddock seated as comfortably as she could manage on the hard seat.
‘So why am I having these “dreams”?’ Alex started.
‘Please tell me you haven’t forgotten the powers you have Alex?’ Caiden smiled gently. ‘You hold in you the powers of telepathy, telekinesis, empathy and precognition. You are having these dreams because you are receiving a warning. They are not dreams. They are premonitions.’ Caiden explained softly.
‘How do you know?’ Mrs. Braddock interrupted politely.
‘Because I have them all the time.’ Caiden answered simply. ‘What I find most curious about this is, while I am at the Sanctuary, with Lachlan’s protections and preventions, I don’t have premonitions.’
‘That doesn’t quite explain why I have them here. I mean, we can all use some of our telekinetic abilities here.’ Alex rebutted.
'True enough, but as far as I’m aware, none of us can use telepathy, except those of us who have a telepathic rapport with another person. Lachlan has one with Rama, I have one with Jaden. You have one with Quinn. Only Lachlan is capable of initiating telepathic conversations with other people in the Sanctuary.’ The twin explained looking at Aurelia who was blushing slightly.
‘Ah, just the other morning I was able to sense everyone in the Sanctuary. I even used my telepathy to communicate with Nikolai.’ Alex interjected.
‘Interesting.’ Caiden said, peering inquisitively at the Italian.
‘And I’ve seen others using their telepathy here as well. It’s not just me.’ Alex stated.
‘I’ll look into that.’ Caiden said. ‘As for you having the premonition here, and mine not coming at all, I think that’s because the warning you are receiving is of great importance. May I share the premonition with you?’ The blond queried politely. Alex nodded, closed his eyes and shared his memories of the dreams with the twin. Caiden gasped dramatically, slapping a hand to his chest.
‘Is something wrong?’ Alex asked, reaching out and taking the blond’s shoulders in his hands. Caiden’s eyes were flickering rapidly as he attempted to make sense of the dreams.
‘Alex… Lachlan… no… Rama!’ The blond twin mumbled almost incoherently.
‘Mamma?’ Alex called out loudly, Mrs. Braddock appearing beside her son instantly, helping him lower the twin to the ground carefully. Caiden sat down at first, still babbling to himself and then fell limp on his back. Alex stood swiftly and took a step to the entrance, going to get Lachlan when the man himself walked into the Circle with determined steps toward them.
‘I don’t know what happened.’ Alex pleaded as the Leader appeared beside him, his face softening noticeably as he assessed Alex’s panic.
‘It’s alright Alex.’ Lachlan said as he released the Italian and knelt beside Caiden. He reached out and placed a hand on either side of the blond’s face and closed his eyes in concentration.
‘Will he be alright?’ Aurelia asked of the Leader after a few moments of silence.
‘He will be fine.’ Lachlan said with closed eyes. ‘I’m just modifying his memories slightly and removing the thoughts he extracted from Alex.’ The Italian flushed bright red at these words, thinking he had done this damage. ‘It is not your fault Alex. I need to get Caiden to a bed with Monica and Rama. We can talk when Caiden is resting.’ In the blink of an eye, Lachlan was on his feet and had Caiden slung across his arms, walking at preternatural speed from the Circle, leaving Aurelia and Alex alone and worried.
‘Come and see me in ten minutes Alex.’ The Leader said to Alex telepathically, the Italian feeling a calm settling over him.
‘Mamma, I need to find Quinn.’ Alex said to his mother.
‘No worries my darling.’ Aurelia said, watching her son racing from the Circle.
‘Grayson, might I borrow you for a few moments?’ Aurelia asked both aloud and in her mind.
‘On my way Aurelia.’ Grayson replied telepathically.
Mrs. Braddock was standing near the path waiting anxiously for Grayson to arrive. She was wringing her hands with worry when the man stepped into the Circle.
‘My dear, whatever is the matter?’ Grayson asked easily seeing the grave worry in Mrs. Braddock.
‘Grayson, I need my sisters here. Will you take me to them and bring us all back here?’ Aurelia asked, her voice breaking slightly as her eyes misted with unfallen tears. Grayson took Mrs. Braddock warmly into his arms and whisked her out of sight.
‘Caiden is resting and is out of danger.’ Lachlan said happily as he sat beside his husband in the small circle of people gathered. ‘Alex, you must know that this isn’t your fault.’
‘I still feel guilty about it.’ The Italian said sadly as his husband tightened his arms around the thick neck.
‘Well, no more guilt okay?’ Lachlan said with a warm smile. ‘However, I would like to know more about these dreams of yours.’
‘What would you like to know?’ Alex asked sadly. He looked around the people gathered and spotted the Leader’s husband, Rama, Jaden, Grayson and Monica.
‘How long have you been having them?’ Lachlan asked kindly.
‘On and off for a few years now. Ever since I got these powers.’ The Italian answered honestly looking at his hands, as if that’s where his abilities were.
‘And why haven’t you told anyone about them before?’ The Leader queried.
‘Because until this morning, I haven’t remembered them.’ Alex answered.
‘When I saw them, though they always seemed to be of the same event, they seemed to change slightly.’ The Leader began.
‘Yes, always some small detail changed, or my perspective changed.’ The Italian stated.
‘I wonder why you’re receiving this warning, and why my protections aren’t stopping them.’ Lachlan asked, more of himself than anyone else.
'I think I know the answer to that.’ Aurelia said as she and her sisters sat themselves in the small gathering. The aunts both smiled warmly to Alex and Quinn.
‘Aurelia?’ Lachlan questioned.
‘Precognition isn’t just a Children of Light ability. We Stregheria are precognitive as well.’ Aurelia began. ‘In my family, I am the precognitive.’
‘I know that now. That prophecy you proclaimed when we had caught the demon.’ Lachlan said politely.
‘The Stregheria have an element of protection from your abilities, your mind control, for example, much like you have a protection from our elemental abilities, the fact that Alex has your version of precognition, he is the son of a precognitive…’
‘Alex’s premonitions are not stopped by my protections in the Sanctuary.’ Lachlan finished.
‘Also, he has a telepathic connection with the Holy, the strongest, most revered of the Stregheria, who has precognitive abilities of his own.’ Aurelia ammeded.
‘Well, that explains why Alex has been receiving them.’ The Leader said satisfied with that answer. ‘He is saturated in precognitive abilities. But that does not explain the importance of the warning.’
‘Importance of the warning?’ Alex asked with a strained voice. ‘I think the importance is pretty bloody obvious. I die!’
‘Not necessarily.’ Lachlan said, as Aurelia, Giuliana and Francesca all nodded in agreement.
‘Most precognitives seldom have premonitions about themselves. In fact, I don’t think I’ve heard of it happening.’ Francesca said confidently.
‘Neither have I.’ Lachlan said in agreement. ‘I think it’s safe to say that you won’t be dying Alex, well, not by the means this warning is showing.’
‘Is it my imagination, or is that field he’s in familiar?’ Rama asked of his husband.
‘It’s just a field like every other field mo chridhe.’ The Leader answered. ‘I think its best that we put this aside for the time being. Alex, I will teach you some things that might help with lessening the premonition’s occurrence.’
Alex nodded in agreement, although he wanted to further discuss the possibilities.
‘Come, let’s get some food.’ Lachlan said cheerily as everyone got to their feet.
‘At this rate, it might be prudent to build another cabin.’ Rama said cheekily. ‘You three seem to be here as often as we are.’
‘Oh, you great big shit.’ Aurelia laughed as she slapped Rama’s arm gently, the Egyptian wrapping his arm around Mrs. Braddock’s waist and hugging her to his side.
‘Alex? Gabriel and I were thinking about going out for dinner and a movie tonight and wanted to know if you and Quinn wanted to come with us?’ Giorgio asked of his cousin. Alex smiled warmly and nodded.
‘I think that would be a great idea.’ Alex said smiling. ‘I’ll go and make sure it’s okay with Quinn.’
‘Wait cousin. Maybe Mikhail and Fabz can come too? Nikolai as well if he’s up for it?’
‘I’ll ask Mickey and Fabz, but, I don’t think Nikolai would be too keen on being a spare wheel.’ Alex said slightly saddened.
‘I heard dinner and a movie.’ Caiden said with a smile as he approached the two cousins.
‘Sì. I was asking Alex if he and Quinn wanted to join us for a movie and dinner, and Mikhail, Fabrizio and Nikolai as well. But Nikolai might feel a bit left out.’
‘Oh, easily remedied. I will be Nikolai’s date.’ The blond twin said with a bright smile of enthusiasm. Alex laughed quickly and dragged Caiden by the arm off to find everyone.
‘Is Nikolai… you know?’ Alex asked of the blond twin.
‘I don’t know to be honest. But the man needs some outside of Sanctuary time, and if I can help relieve him of his “spare wheel” feeling, then who am I to not help out?’ Caiden answered as Alex continued to drag him across the gathering field to the private cabins.
‘I think we all need some normal time.’ Alex sighed heavily as they approached his private cabin and walked inside. Caiden gently yet firmly stopped Alex with a hand against his shoulder and stepped into the middle of the room smiling to Nikolai.
‘Nikolai, tonight some of us are going into town for a meal and a movie and I wondered if perhaps you would like to come along with me, as I do not have a date.’ The twin asked of the Russian in perfect and precise Russian.
‘What did he say?’ Fabrizio whispered to his boyfriend.
‘Oh shit.’ Alex said, slapping his forehead and waving the same hand in front of himself. ‘I forgot about the translation.’
‘It matters not.’ Caiden said with a wink to Alex. ‘I am fluent in several languages, Russian being one of them.’
‘You speak perfect Russian blond one. I would be delighted to accompany you to dinner and a movie.’ Nikolai said with a huge smile as he stood up carefully. Caiden was immediately in front of him helping him to his feet and holding him steady.
‘I will help you through tonight.’ Caiden whispered to the man as he telekinetically enhanced himself and Nikolai. ‘My strength shall be yours.’
‘Spasibo.’ Nikolai nodded and hugged the blond twin gently.
‘Alright boys, let’s all get tidied up and meet in two hours at the Veil.’ Alex announced to the room, as most everyone scattered out of the living area to get ready.
‘Get back here mia creatura!’ Mrs. Braddock snapped to her son. Alex walked back shamefaced as his mother reached up and hugged him tenderly. ‘You be careful, and look after everyone.’
‘Sì Mamma.’ Alex said quietly, kissing his mother on the cheek.
‘You make sure all my boys are safe.’ Francesca said flanking her sister and pinching her nephew on the cheek. Giuliana was hugging Quinn with motherly affection.
‘I promise you all, we will all be safe.’ Alex said, exasperatedly as his mother finally released him.
‘Have a good night.’ Mrs. Braddock said, waving to the men she considered her sons.
‘Do you really think it wise letting them out after today ‘Relia?’ Francesca asked quietly of her sister as she too watched the boys departing.
‘I don’t think any harm can come to them in such a big group. They will watch out for each other.’ Aurelia answered honestly. ‘And just between the three of us, I don’t think Alex is the one in trouble.’
‘Well, that’s a given, but who?’ Giuliana asked.
‘I don’t know, but, judging by the frequency of the dreams, I’d say we’ll be finding out relatively soon.’ Aurelia said grimly, turning from the Veil and walking back to the guest cabin.
‘Where are we?’ Nikolai asked as they appeared in the middle of a central town park.
‘This is the town that we live in when we aren’t at the Sanctuary.’ Alex said, smiling to Nikolai as the group of men made their way out of the park. ‘We live a little out of town now, but I used to run through this park nearly every morning.’
‘I do believe this is the park that Jaden was following you through the morning you thought someone was watching you.’ Caiden said looking around at the trees.
‘So it was him. I always wondered, but never asked.’ Alex said with a small chuckle. ‘He scared the shit out of me.’
‘He does seem to have that effect on people.’ Caiden laughed; an unusual sound to those who’ve spent considerable time with the blond twin.
‘There’s a rather nice restaurant just over there that I thought we might go to.’ Alex said, pointing to a corner, a warm light flooding out through the windows.
‘Looks good.’ Caiden said with a nod as he and Nikolai led the way out of the park and across the road.
‘We’ve been here before.’ Giorgio said under his breath, unsure how Gabriel was going to take this.
‘I remember they had nice food.’ The Brazilian said with a laugh as his stomach growled in agreement. The eight men filed through the door, and with the flicker of an eyelid, Caiden convinced the maître d’ that there was a reservation for the group and they were seated immediately in an out of the way corner, the couples arranging themselves to sit side by side; Caiden sitting to the right of Quinn, with Nikolai to his right, who was to the left of Mikhail.
‘Good evening, gentlemen. Would you like something to drink?’ A tall, thin waiter asked as he approached the table with a smile on his face.
‘Four bottles of Riesling please.’ Alex announced with a smile as the waiter bowed slightly and backed away.
The eight men sat quietly talking amongst themselves, perusing the menu’s, while a server brought the four bottles of wine and two bottles of chilled water to the table, pouring eight glasses of wine.
‘Are you ready to order?’ The waiter asked as the group sipped their wine. Alex began ordering and everyone followed suit, noting that the waiter didn’t write anything down.
‘Your meals will be with you soon, and I’ll be right back with your starters.’ The waiter said with a slight bow as he walked toward the kitchen. Alex stood up and cleared his throat, picking up his wine glass. The seven men remained seated and lifted their glasses.
‘What a week.’ Alex said with a puff of air. ‘It’s good to have you back big guy.’ He said nodding to Mikhail. ‘And it’s nice to have you with us as well Nikolai. I hope you’re happy here.’ He said to a small round of cheers. ‘Giorgio, I am so happy that things turned out better for you, and Gabriel, welcome to the family, properly.’ Alex raised his glass slightly. ‘And to you my love, I don’t think I could have done this without you right beside me.’ The Italian said as Quinn got to his feet and the two men embraced. Sitting down again, everyone fell into quieted conversation waiting for their food.
‘Are you alright neteru?’ Rama asked as he approached his husband who was sitting on a newly created tree stump near the River.
‘Just taking a moment.’ The Leader said with closed eyes, his face tilted upward, bathed in moonlight. He exhaled slowly and opened his eyes, looking up into the handsome, shadowed face of his husband.
‘Did I interrupt?’ The Egyptian said, reaching a hand out and stroking Lachlan’s cheek with his thumb.
‘No mo chridhe. I was just trying to clear my mind.’ The Leader said quietly. He reached up and taking hold of his husband’s hand pulled himself up. Rama yanked slightly and caught the man in his arms.
‘You were never very good at lying to me neteru.’ Rama said softly as he carried the man up the slope back toward the buildings.
‘I know my love, but this I have to keep from you.’ The Leader said equally as quiet as his husband. ‘No good will come of you knowing.’
‘I trust you.’ Rama said, kissing his husband on the forehead.
‘Thank you my love. That means a lot to me.’ Lachlan said as his husband walked steadily on.
‘Are you ready for bed?’ Rama asked softly.
‘Yes mo chridhe.’ Lachlan purred happily.
‘What a gorgeous dinner.’ Caiden said happily as the group of men exited the restaurant.
‘It was lovely.’ Nikolai said contentedly.
‘I think I might pass on the movie guys.’ Alex said to the group as he pulled his husband in for a cuddle.
‘Us too.’ Mikhail said, hugging Fabrizio to himself.
‘Alright, we can always go another time.’ Giorgio said as Gabriel lifted his boyfriend’s hand and kissed it tenderly.
‘I am rather tired.’ Nikolai said, stifling a yawn.
‘Home to bed then folks.’ Caiden said, taking Nikolai’s hand and walking across the road to the central park. Once they were sure they weren’t being watched, the men disappeared in a flurry of wind and appeared in front of the Veil.
‘Thank you Caiden.’ Nikolai said as they walked through the curtain of leaves.
‘You’re so very welcome.’ Caiden responded as they walked toward Alex’s private cabin.
‘And here we are.’ The blond twin said as they reached the door of Alex’s cabin.
‘You are a wonderful date.’ Nikolai said warmly as he leaned over and kissed the twin on the cheek.
‘Just glad you had a good night.’ Caiden said, blushing slightly as Alex watched on curiously.
‘We’ll have to do it again soon.’ Nikolai said, turning to enter the cabin, but not before Caiden, Alex and Mikhail all saw him blush bright pink. Caiden smiled to himself and turned on his feet, saluting the group of men in farewell and heading off into the darkness.
‘What was that all about?’ Alex asked of Mikhail, who looked equally as confused.
‘No idea mate.’ Mikhail said, gesturing for Alex to go inside.
‘Alex, wake up.’ The Leader said firmly. ‘ALEX!’
‘What?’ Alex called out as he sat bolt upright in the bed, his husband, the Leader and his husband in different states of undress looking at the Italian, but what jolted him the most was every item of furniture in the bedroom slamming onto the floor.
‘You were dreaming.’ Lachlan said gently, placing his palm against the Italian’s sweat drenched forehead.
‘You were lifting everything in the room.’ Quinn said meekly from the end of the bed, his body language showing fear. ‘Even me.’
Alex looked at his husband and saw the fear on plain display and he immediately began to tear up.
‘I’m sorry.’ Alex sobbed through tears, knowing that he could have hurt his husband. Lachlan was the first to react, swooping in and pulling Alex’s head to his chest.
‘Shush. That’s enough.’ He said, petting the Italian’s damp hair while looking at Quinn. ‘We know you didn’t do it on purpose.’ The blond shuffled nervously around the bed to stand beside Lachlan, Rama at his back. He reached out and took Alex’s hand in his own.
‘It’s alright babe.’ Quinn said quietly. Alex’s face emerged from Lachlan’s bare chest, his bloodshot eyes rimmed with tears.
‘I’m sorry Quinn.’ Alex sobbed. ‘I’m so sorry.’
‘It’s alright, my love. I’m not hurt.’ Quinn said softly, climbing onto the bed carefully and kneeling between Alex’s legs. The Leader released the Italian and stepped back to his husband’s waiting arms as Alex and Quinn embraced.
‘What were you dreaming about?’ Quinn asked carefully, Alex’s body tensing immediately.
‘It was that dream again. It has lasted longer this time. And I was seeing it from your point of view.’ He said looking into Quinn’s eyes. ‘I was heartbroken, distraught. I lashed out at everyone around me.’
Lachlan scanned Alex’s thoughts and saw the recollection himself, gasping internally at the shock of it. Rama’s arm flexed involuntarily as he shared the vision with his husband. Quinn, still wrapped in the strong arms of the Italian closed his eyes and gave himself to his husband.
‘We’ll give you some space.’ Lachlan said softly as he and his husband left the room, leaving Alex, still crying, and Quinn to themselves.
‘It’s getting worse.’ Rama said as the door closed behind him.
‘Mmm.’ Lachlan said deep in thought. ‘It must be getting closer.’
‘Are we ready for this? Can we do it?’ Rama said, not entirely confident in his words.
‘We don’t really have a choice, do we?’ The Leader responded quietly.
‘I suppose not.’ The Egyptian replied sadly.
‘I need a moment.’ Lachlan said, embracing his husband briefly before disappearing outside.
‘Your new homes.’ Rama said happily gesturing to the three new cabins he had supervised the construction of. The group of mages all cheered excitedly as they made their way inside and looked around.
‘Well done.’ Lachlan said, leaning into his husband, a smile lingering about his mouth.
‘Least I could do.’ The Egyptian said with a laugh.
‘Aren’t you due to leave soon?’ Lachlan said softly, his arm snaking around the trim waist of the taller man.
‘Tomorrow morning I’ll head over.’ Rama said, kissing the top of the Leader’s head.
‘Maybe you should pass on your duties to one of the other priests?’ Lachlan said coyly. ‘I don’t like it when you’re away.’
‘It’s only for a week neteru.’ Rama said, giggling at his husband’s words. ‘You know I can’t abandon my responsibilities any more than you can yours.’
‘It’s fun to think about.’ Lachlan laughed, his husband giggling with him.
‘What are you two laughing about?’ Quinn asked as he walked toward the couple.
‘Oh nothing, just being irresponsible leaders.’ Lachlan said humorously. ‘Rama is off on his pilgrimage tomorrow. Part of his responsibilities as the High Priest of Ra.’
‘Oh wow. Do you do that often?’ Quinn asked of the tall Egyptian.
‘Every year. It’s an old custom, but I enjoy it.’ Rama said smiling to the blond.
‘May I come along next time?’ Quinn asked hopefully. ‘I’d like to come this year, but Alex wants to go home shortly.’
‘Absolutely.’ Rama smiled.
‘Why don’t you guys come over for dinner when you get back?’ Quinn invited of the Leader and his husband.
‘That would be lovely.’ Lachlan said, reaching out and squeezing the blond’s shoulder.
‘I’d better go find Alex and help him get ready.’ The blond said with a smile. ‘See you guys later.’ He waved as he walked back to find Alex.
‘Right, let’s get these guys settled in and I’ll go find out what’s for dinner.’ Lachlan said squeezing his husband tight.
‘Wow, it’s good to be home.’ Alex said happily as he walked through the back door, Quinn follows, Mikhail, Fabrizio and Nikolai after him.
‘Mickey, would you like to show Nikolai to the spare room?’
‘This way Nicky.’ Mikhail said cheerily as he made for the stairs. Alex waved a hand and his and Quinn’s luggage vanished, apparently upstairs to their bedroom.
‘Let’s order dinner in tonight babe. I can’t be arsed cooking.’ The Italian said with a laugh.
‘I’ll take care of dinner. You go and sit.’ Quinn said, gesturing for Alex to move to the lounge. The blond moved to the counter top and picked up the phone, dialling the number of a nearby fast food restaurant and watched his spirit pup gallivanting around the back yard.
‘Hello, can I place an order please?’ Quinn said into the phone as Mikhail, Fabrizio and Nikolai came down the stairs and went into the lounge. ‘That’s me. Yes. Thank you. See you soon.’
‘I think we order too much from them.’ Quinn said, laughing as he walked into the lounge. ‘Didn’t even need to tell them what I wanted.’ Everyone laughed at this.
‘Welcome to our home Nikolai.’ Alex said with a cheerful smile for the smallest of the Russian’s.
‘Spasibo Alex.’ Nikolai said with a flush of colour to his face. ‘It is nice to be in a home. I know the Sanctuary is a safe place, but, this is a home.’ He said looking about the lounge.
‘I know what you mean.’ Mikhail said with a giggle.
‘I think I should probably head into work tomorrow.’ Alex said sighing.
‘As should I.’ Mikhail nodded. ‘I hope everything is alright at the home.’
‘I’m sure it is big guy. You did a great job staffing it.’ The Italian said with a smile.
‘Still, I can’t wait to see everyone. Perhaps you can come visit?’ He asked of his friend.
‘I’ll bring him over around lunch time.’ Quinn interrupted. ‘Let him settle in here first.’
‘DA!’ Mikhail said, standing up. ‘Wine?’
Alex, Quinn, Fabrizio and Quinn practically shouted in reply as Mikhail trotted to the kitchen, collecting glasses and bottles for all.
'To Nikolai. Welcome to your new home.’ Alex announced as everyone raised their glasses in the smaller Russian’s honour.
After a few minutes, the door bell rung, Alex answers it and takes the food from the delivery person. He placed the food on the table as Quinn collected some plates and cutlery and set them beside the food. The married couple stood back and watched as the three remaining men helped themselves to food. Eventually all five men were seated and eating.
‘Who the hell could that be?’ Alex said, getting off the sofa and walking toward the front door. He pulled the door open and the look of shock slipped off his face. ‘Mamma, what are you…?’ Alex began, but was silenced by the man who stepped into the light.
‘Hello Alex.’
‘Callum. What’s wrong?’ The Italian asked cautiously scanning the darkened front yard for signs of invasion.
‘Caro, invite us in, it’s cold out here.’ Mrs. Braddock said shivering slightly. Alex stepped back and let his mother and cousin inside, closing the door behind him. He gestured for them to come into the living area and sit.
‘Hi everyone.’ Callum said shyly waving to the people sitting down. His greeting was returned warmly.
‘What’s going on?’ Alex asked of his mother and cousin.
‘Bambino why must something be wrong?’ Aurelia chided her son politely.
‘I’m sorry Alex, I didn’t mean to intrude, but, I was wondering if I might perhaps stay with you for a bit?’ The Brit asked meekly. Alex looked him over carefully and turned to his mother.
‘Callum is still a little shell shocked about what happened, and feels safer with you.’ Mrs. Braddock explained delicately. ‘And besides, who wants to hang around with their boring old aunt anyway?’ She added humorously.
‘I’m sorry Aunty Aurelia. I don’t mean to offend you.’ Callum said contritely staring at his hands. Alex was sitting beside his cousin instantly, an arm around his shoulders protectively.
‘I’m sorry Callum, it didn’t even occur to me. Of course you can stay here.’ Alex said, looking to his husband who was nodding affirmatively. A smile played across the blond’s lips as he glanced to Nikolai.
‘They have something in common.’ The blond laughed internally, his husband picking up on the trail of his thoughts.
‘Do you have a bag with you?’ Alex asked, looking for his mother who shook her head. ‘Oh well, I’m sure we can find some clothes you can borrow. Quinn can take you shopping tomorrow for some clothes.’ Callum looked up to the blond who was smiling that fantastic smile he had.
‘Thank you Alex.’ Callum said softly, looking back to his hands sitting in his lap.
‘Callum, I’d like you to meet Nikolai.’ Quinn said, standing up and holding a hand out to Alex’s British cousin who stood up and took the proffered hand. ‘Nikolai, this is Alex’s cousin Callum.’ The two men shook hands politely, offering each other a small smile.
‘Pleasure to meet you.’ Callum said as Nikolai nodded.
‘Nikolai is a friend of Mikhail. He was kidnapped by the Order and we rescued him with Mikhail.’ Quinn said softly as Callum looked into the face of the smaller Russian, tears rimming his eyes. Nikolai nodded solemnly, affirming Quinn’s statement.
‘I’m sorry.’ Callum gasped softly. ‘My brother is the head of the Order.’ He finished almost in a whisper.
‘It’s alright.’ Nikolai said, reaching out and squeezing the Brit’s shoulder tenderly.
‘He kept me shackled up in a dungeon for a few months.’ Callum admitted as a tear fell down his cheek. Nikolai reached out and wiped the tear away with a thumb as he gestured for Callum to sit beside him. The two men sat down and quietly spoke to each other whilst everyone else returned to normal conversation.
‘How did you guys get here?’ Alex asked of his mother.
‘I drove us here.’ Aurelia answered.
‘Would you like me to take you home, or maybe you’d like to spend the night?’ Alex offered.
‘No bambino, I’ll drive home. It’s no worry.’ Mrs. Braddock said happily. ‘This one was following me around like a scared puppy, so I thought I’d bring him here.’ Callum who had looked over just then, flushed bright pink and returned to his quieted conversation with Nikolai.
‘Alright Mamma.’ Alex said as his mother stood up. ‘Drive safely.’
‘Always do bambino.’ Mrs. Braddock said as she opened the door and stepped outside, Alex following her. ‘He’s fragile at the moment. Show him that not all his family is psychotic, caro.’
‘Of course Mamma.’ Alex replied, hugging his mother. Aurelia walked down the front steps and moved swiftly to her car. Alex waved farewell and went back inside, closing and locking the door behind him.
‘Alright, so where are we gonna sleep everyone?’ Alex asked when he sat back down.
‘You have queen size bed in the guest room, da?’ Nikolai asked of the Italian, who nodded. ‘If it’s okay with Callum, I don’t mind sharing.’
‘Callum?’ Alex queried.
‘That’s fine by me.’ The Brit answered cheerily.
‘Alright, we’ll make a better plan of it tomorrow.’ Alex smiled, looking over the small portion of his family. Quinn snuggled in beside his husband and sighed happily.
‘It’s nice having a full house.’ The blond said softly, burying his face in the Italian’s armpit.
‘It is, isn’t it?’ Alex replied as he mulled over the feeling of having so many people living with him. ‘I don’t miss living by myself.’
‘That’s good.’ Quinn said from the Italian’s armpit.
‘I’m so nearly ready for bed.’ Alex whispered to the top of the blond head.
‘Me too.’ Quinn said, nodding his head.
‘We’re going to bed guys.’ Alex said to everyone as Quinn came up for air with a goofy smile on his face. Mikhail winked at him suggestively.
‘We may as well go to bed too zàyka.’ Mikhail said to Fabrizio, who was wrapped around the giant’s waist somehow.
‘You guys off to bed?’ Alex asked of his cousin and the smaller Russian.
‘I might stay up for bit longer.’ Nikolai said with a smile looking to Callum who was sitting slightly away from the Russian, but leaning in quite closely. The Brit nodded as well and smiled to his cousin.
‘I’ll stay up a little as well.’ Callum said cheerily. Alex smiled and stood up, helping Quinn to his feet as well. Mikhail, carrying Fabrizio, was already halfway to the stairs as Alex and Quinn made their way over. Quinn walked up the stairs first and Alex stopped in the darkness and watched his cousin and Mikhail’s friend on the couch, talking intimately with each other.
‘If I didn’t know any better, I’d say those two are going to be quite close.’ Alex whispered more to himself than anyone else.
‘I’d say you’re right my love.’ Quinn replied a few feet away from his husband. Alex looked and saw Quinn hanging over the stair rail, looking back into the lounge. ‘They do make a rather handsome couple, no?’ Alex snorted quietly and nodded in agreement, then remembered it was dark and Quinn probably couldn’t see him.
‘I guess they do.’ He said. ‘Let’s go to bed.’
‘Good morning Alex, Quinn.’ A voice called softly from their door, followed by a hollow knock, as if echoing from a deep hole.
‘What was that?’ Alex gasped as he woke up suddenly, lurching out of the bed.
‘What now?’ Quinn asked, sitting up, his eyes still closed with sleep.
‘I’m so sorry to have woken you.’ The voice called from the door. ‘Do you mind if I come in?’
‘Who is that?’ Alex asked, rubbing his eyes aggressively in an attempt to wake himself up.
‘It’s me, Lachlan, sort of.’ He answered mysteriously.
‘Ah sure, come in.’ Alex said, sitting up slightly, the blond attempting to rouse himself. The Leader walked through the closed door and at first Alex didn’t notice anything different.
‘Sorry about that.’ The Leader’s voice echoed strangely. Alex shook his head in a dog like manner, trying to clear his ears.
‘I can’t hear you properly.’ Alex said, yawning slightly, his eyes still not focussed on Lachlan. The smoky image of the Leader took a step closer to the bed and laughed.
‘That’s possibly because I’m not really here. I’m projecting.’ Lachlan giggled quietly.
‘Oh, what can we do for you?’ The Italian said shrugging his shoulders.
‘Well, two reasons I’m here. Firstly, Quinn, a few of the mages have asked if you would be kind enough to visit them today. They have something they would like you to have. A gift as it were.’ The Leader said happily. Quinn’s eyes focussed on the smaller man’s face which was smiling at them.
‘Sure, I’ll be there by lunchtime if that’s alright?’ The blond replied.
‘Actually, the second reason for my being here might make that easier. I wondered if you would all like to come for dinner tonight.’ He said looking slightly sad. ‘With Ramz gone, it’s a little lonely.’
‘Of course we’ll come for dinner.’ Alex said immediately. ‘We have a few house guests, if it’s alright to bring them as well?’
‘Of course it is.’ Lachlan said with a smile. ‘The more the merrier.’ The Leader said happily.
‘Alright, we’ll be there just before sundown.’ Alex said with a smile.
‘See you guys then.’