Temptations Mate: Chapter Sixteen

By the time they arrived at Wildwind Noah had succumbed to his injuries and fatigue. He'd lain his head back and joined Kurt in slumber. Blaine sat holding Kurt possessively in his arms alternately casting disapproving glances at where Noah and Kurt's hands were clasped together as they slept and glaring daggers at Rory who was resolutely ignoring the hostility coming from the vampire in favor of exchanging tales of past adventures with Nick.

No sooner had they turned into the driveway than the front door was flung open and Tina and Mercedes burst forth, practically running up the walk to greet the carriage.

Jesse stopped the horses and Mike leapt from the carriage to pull Tina into his arms. Tina cried out in dismay when she saw the various cuts and bruises littering Mike's face. Even though they were rapidly healing he still looked as if he had quite literally been dragged through hell and back.

"I'm fine love. I shall rest in the morn and when I rise again I will be healed. Do not let this trouble you. It is but a small thing," Mike murmured as stroked Tina's hair and held her close. Tina gave a trembling nod but did not loosen her hold on her lover.

Nick had exited the carriage, kicking Noah awake as he went, earning himself a growl from the lycan who hopped out after him. Rory shook his head at their antics and followed the werewolf out, grabbing Kurt's cloak so that Blaine could carry his mate inside.

No sooner had Blaine's feet touched the ground than he gave the order to Jesse to go saddle the horses and secure the carriage. Jesse nodded once and left for the stables while the battle weary group, along with Tina and Mercedes made their way into the manor.

Kurt stirred slightly and cried out in pain when Blaine accidently jostled him as they stepped over the threshold. Noah's eyes narrowed and stepped towards Blaine, arms outstretched towards Kurt but Rory put a retraining hand on Noah's chest.

"Unless ye be looking' to lose that hand I don't be advisin' ye to try taken' a vamp's mate from his very arms," Rory said quietly.

Anger flashed through Noah, hot and sharp, at the reminder of the extent of Kurt's entanglement with Blaine but he knew he was injured and weakened and even though Blaine was as well, Noah knew he was no match for the powerful vampire, especially in his domain so he resentfully stepped back.

"What's wrong with him?" Tina asked worriedly.

"What. Did. You. Let. Happen. To. Him?" Mercedes bit out, walking up to Blaine and putting her hands on her hips. "You're supposed to be looking out for him and you drag him out of here to do battle with God only knows what and come back hours later with him unconscious and-OH MY GOD HE'S COVERED IN BLOOD!" Mercedes shrieked.

Kurt's eyes flew open at the sudden noise and Blaine groaned. "It's not his blood and he needs to rest so kindly stifle yourself and step back before I lose my patience and you lose your life," Blaine snarled.

Mercedes gasped and took an involuntary step back, Noah coming to stand in front of her. Mercedes looked briefly puzzled at the protective gesture but shrugged it aside, choosing instead to watch Blaine with harsh, accusing eyes.

"Blaine, you will do no such thing, now put me down," Kurt gently admonished. Blaine merely raised an eyebrow but obliged, setting his mate upon his feet. Kurt held out his arms to Mercedes who flew into them. "I'm fine Mercy," Kurt whispered, "and don't blame Blaine. He wanted to leave me behind and I wouldn't let him."

"Good thing he came too, Kurt was the hero. He slayed the dragon and saved us even though we're not so fair and not so much maidens," Rory put in.

Mercedes drew back quickly and stared at Kurt while Tina peered at him over from her place in Mike's arms. "Kurt?" Mercedes asked unsteadily, "What happened, honey?"

At the carefully phrased question Kurt closed his eyes and the entire ordeal came flooding back to him. The moment when he'd actually killed someone, spilled blood and taken a life, played back beneath his lids. He remembered the look in Jeremiah's eyes when they'd locked gazes and the feel of his body as it lay prone on top of his and the empty, lifeless eyes that stared back at him from the cavern floor and was sure he was going to be sick.

"Kurt, dear one, its ok," Blaine soothed, moving swiftly to Kurt's side, "You did what you had to do and I'm so, so proud of you."

"Your first kill and you manage to behead a vamp after stripping him of magical powers…I can't wait to see what you do for an encore," Nick grinned.

"You killed someone?" Tina whispered.

"Kurt," Mercedes said, reaching toward him, "This is your fault," Mercedes said turning to Blaine. "Kurt is the gentlest soul I have ever known. If he's…I know it has something to do with you."

"It has everything to do with that bloodsucker," Noah spat. "It was an old lover of his who'd gone completely insane and was bent on revenge. Kurt didn't have a choice…that thing was planning to unspeakable things to Kurt if he'd gotten the chance, all to get back at Blaine."

"No one gave you permission to bark dog," Nick hissed, baring his fangs at Noah.

"Bring it on," Noah said, shifting to a defensive stance, "it'll be one less bloodsucker in the world."

"I'm going to turn you into a fur rug, you mutt," Nick swore advancing on Noah.

"The two of you knock it off," Blaine ordered.

"Oh well aren't you good at giving orders," Mercedes sneered. "Where was all that authority when Kurt was insisting on putting himself in danger and you just couldn't do anything to stop him?"

"I do not have to explain myself to you, human. Know your place or have it taught to you," Blaine growled.

"I'd like to see you try," Mercedes shot back.

Mike and Tina looked on in horror as chaos erupted around them. Kurt was immobile, crushed under an avalanche of inexplicable guilt and regret as the war of words and threats of violence swirled around him and without warning he was back in the cavern with Jeremiah bearing down on him. He suddenly felt as if all control had been ripped from him and he couldn't catch his breath or slow his racing heart. He began to feel dizzy and weak and to his horror thought he might pass out.

Nick and Noah came to blows and began rolling around on the floor, each too tired and too injured to really inflict much damage and Blaine and Mercedes' verbal sparring escalated in intensity until they were trading threats and shouting at each other. Mike rushed to Kurt's side, pulling him close.

"It's ok, Kurt. You're safe here. There's nothing to fear, there's no danger." Mike whispered soothingly.

"I should turn the lot of you into bloody donkeys, you're already behaving' like a pack of jackasses," Rory yelled, before taking up position on Kurt's other side. "Can't ye see he's upset?"

Nick and Noah froze, each slowly releasing their holds on each other. Mercedes gave a little cry of alarm at Kurt's pale, shaking form and Blaine immediately pulled Kurt free of Mike and Rory, wrapping his arms around his mate, lifting him up bridal style and crushing him to his chest.

As Blaine quietly whispered promises of protection and tender endearments, Kurt's panic gradually receded and he relaxed into the safety of his mate's embrace. "B-Blaine? I'm sorry, I –"

"Shh, love there's nothing to be sorry for. I'm going to take care of you now, ok dear one. I've got you love," Blaine whispered.

Blaine turned to face the group. "Kurt needs to rest. There will be no more of this…unpleasantness tonight. Mike, take Tina and retire. I'll speak with the two of you in the morning and thank you for taking care of him when I failed to. Nick-go rest. You're injured and I need you at your best. Noah, your quarters are opposite Mercedes. She'll show you where to go. Rory, yours are next to Noah's. Kurt and I are not to be disturbed. Good night."

In the wake of Kurt and Blaine's exit, Tina and Mike left and Nick gave one last warning glare to Noah before he took his leave. Noah, Rory and Mercedes stood in the middle of the room looking at one another.

"I…I don't know what to say," Mercedes mumbled. "The Marquess has a reputation for discarding his conquests but the way he just was with Kurt, about Kurt. Maybe he does care."

"Of course he cares. He's Kurt's mate. He's his destiny, his forever. Whatever affection you have for him is but a drop in the ocean compared to Blaine's feelings," Rory stated. "You two had better curb your tongues…Kurt's mated with that vamp. He's a part of this clan now and it's the entire House of Drăculeşti that'll be after your hides if ye keep insisting' on causing' troubles."

Noah scowled. "I'm not afraid of any vampires."

"No one's askin' ye to be fearful, just sensible. Kurt doesn't just belong to his vamp, he belongs to the entire clan and if ye keep trying' to come between them, eventually you'll be removed." Rory stated.

"He did seem to care to Kurt," Mercedes said grudgingly.

"Maybe, I'm still not convinced but I'll back off-for now. Let's just get some rest," Noah said.

Mercedes led the trio to their quarters, Rory following behind hoping the human and the lycan would heed his warnings.

Kurt was barely aware of Blaine stripping him and placing him in their bed until he felt the heavy, comfortable weight of his mate dipping the bed down beside him and gathering him against his chest.

"I love you and I'm so, so sorry," Blaine said quietly, placing gentle butterfly kisses on Kurt's brow. "I never wanted you to come so close to danger as you did tonight and I should have realized that scene in the great hall was the last thing you needed after the night's ordeal."

The words washed over Kurt, and he let the smell and sound and feel of his mate ground him. "It's not your fault. Everyone is on edge. And what happened earlier wasn't your fault either. I know I didn't have a choice, I know he'd have killed us all. I know he was evil but…I killed him, Blaine. I killed him. Jeremiah'sdead because of me and the worst thing is I…I would do it again. If he walked through that door I would do it again," Kurt whispered. "What does that make me?"

"It makes you a man of extraordinary courage."

"I'm a murderer," Kurt whispered, burrowing his face into Blaine's chest.

"You're a hero," Blaine said, taking Kurt's face and turning up gently so he could look into his mate's eyes. "You saved countless numbers of humans, fey and demons alike. You saved Noah. You saved Nick, Jesse, Rory and Mike. You saved me. You are phenomenal. You are incredible. The fact that you can have any measure of regret for taking the life of a creature like Jeremiah only proves to me how truly exceptional you are and-"

"How weak I am you mean," Kurt cut in bitterly.

Something uncomfortable settled on the edges of Blaine's conscious but he pushed it away. "You are far stronger than you know," he replied simply.

"I feel like I'm falling apart," Kurt confessed.

"Then let me put you back together," Blaine murmured, capturing Kurt's lips. The kiss is soft and sweet, long and lingering with just a hint of lust and filled with promises of forever and complete acceptance and adoration.

"I will always pick up the pieces and put you back together," Blaine whispered, lightly stroking his fingers down Kurt's cheek.

"Please," Kurt begged, not entirely sure what he was begging for but knowing that Blaine would make sure he got what it was he needed.

Blaine smiled, just a bit before leaning down and covering Kurt's mouth with his again. His lips slid against Kurt's, and the kiss deepened, growing heated and more urgent with each slick slide of Blaine's tongue over Kurt's. Kurt whimpered and pressed himself closer to Blaine's body, blindly seeking contact.

Blaine pulled away and stared down at his mate with eyes glowing gold, slowing being blackened by lust. The love reflected in his gaze took Kurt breathe away and he reaches out a shaky hand, tenderly cupping Blaine's face and smiling at his mate. "I love you," Kurt breathed.

"And I you," Blaine murmured. He draped himself over Kurt's body, covering Kurt's chest with delicate kisses and barely there nips of his fangs. Blaine took the tip of his tongue and teased one dusky nipple into a hardened peak before moving over and doing the same to its twin. Kurt's mouth fell open and a breathy moan emerged, causing Blaine to redouble his efforts, letting the barest hint of fang graze over Kurt's nipples.

Blaine took one hand and gently fists Kurt's hair while letting the other roam over his mate's body. Blaine's touch ghosted over Kurt's collarbone then trailed down his torso and across the lightly defined stomach, before allowing his fingertips to graze over Kurt's cock.

"You're so beautiful," Blaine breathed into Kurt's ear. "You're the perfect mate. Kurt, you're strong and brave, so exquisite, so perfect," Blaine said his voice reverent and intense. "I love you so much, need you so much."

"Blaine," Kurt keened, unable to form the words to let Blaine know he felt the same way about him.

"Shh, love. I've got you," Blaine chided gently, "just look at me, lie back and let me take care of you," Blaine said, kissing Kurt deeply again while taking the oil off the bedside table. Blaine pulled back, pouring the substance over his fingers before wrapping them around Kurt's shaft. Blaine began to move his hand slowly up and down Kurt's length, drawing out little moans, groans and whimpers, the entire time keeping his eyes locked on Kurt's, letting his mate drink in the feeling of being completely loved and totally worshipped.

Kurt bit his lip and rocked his hips into Blaine's grip. He reached up and wrapped one hand around Blaine's bicep and dug his nails into the skin as he bucked up. "Blaine! B-Blaine, oh I'm going to-"

Blaine smirked and grabbed the base of Kurt's erection, quelling his orgasm. Kurt wailed in protest and Blaine took the moment to kiss him again, a tad more possessively than last time. "Trust me, I'll get you where you need to go, love," Blaine whispered against the corner of Kurt's mouth.

Kurt nodded and his eyes slid closed as Blaine breeched Kurt's entrance with one long finger. Kurt sighed happily and his legs instinctively parted even wider.

Blaine prepped Kurt slowly, teasing and stretching Kurt's hole, adding another finger and still another. Blaine slid down until he was in between Kurt's legs, opened his mouth and leaned forward, letting his tongue press against the slick head of Kurt's cock, placing tiny kitten licks on it until Kurt was moaning and writing under his ministrations.

Blaine licked down Kurt's shaft, his mouth wet and warm, circling the crown and teasing the slit making Kurt call out his name and fist his hands in his hair.

"Blaine," Kurt moaned. "Blaine, please, I love you so much, I want-I need-," Kurt's pleas were cut short when Blaine's tongue found its way to his balls, licking around them before sucking one into his mouth, his fingers furiously moving in and out of Kurt's hole. Blaine hollowed his cheeks and began to suck his lover in earnest, taking his length deep into his throat and humming around it.

Kurt rode Blaine's fingers, pulling on his hair as he bucked up again and again into Blaine's mouth. Kurt felt himself get to the edge again and once again, Blaine denied him release. Kurt opened his mouth to beg, to bargain, threaten and plead but before he could Blaine moved swiftly up his body and covered his mouth with his. He dragged one of Kurt's legs up over his hip and buried himself inside his lover. Kurt hid his head in the space between Blaine's neck and shoulder and moaned out his mate's name as Blaine moved slowly inside him, gently thrusting in and out while Kurt rode out the sensations beneath him.

Wave after wave of pleasure crashed over Kurt and he took his other leg and wrapped it around Blaine's waist, his hands fisting the sheets as he matched Blaine thrust for thrust. "There, right there, Blaine, oh please, I need you, I love you, please don't stop," Kurt babbled as he twisted and writhed beneath Blaine.

"Shh, I've got you. I'll always give you what you need," Blaine promised darkly, as he plunged in and out of Kurt, savoring the tight heat of his mate's body. His fangs snapped out and he sank them into the juncture of Kurt's neck.

Kurt cried out as Blaine's fangs pierced his skin. He felt tremors spread out through his body and a burning tightness in his belly before his body seized and he spilled out untouched, coming fast and hard between their bodies. Kurt's muscles tightened around Blaine's cock, milking an orgasm from him. As he climaxed Blaine continued to feed from Kurt, greedily sucking as his cock pulsed, pumping his seed deep into Kurt.

Eventually Blaine pulled out, pulling Kurt close to him, licking the wound on his neck closed. Kurt sighed, snuggling into Blaine's side, utterly spent and completely contented. "I love you," Kurt whispered, before his eyelids lowered and he found himself slipping into slumber.

Blaine held Kurt for a few moments, relishing the feel of his mate and giving thanks that Jeremiah hadn't managed to take Kurt from him before rising to get a cloth to clean them both. Kurt was so exhausted that he didn't stir while Blaine tended to him and when he was done Blaine settled Kurt beneath the covers and kissed him on the forehead before slipping into a pair of his sleeping pants and robe and exiting the room.

Blaine moved silently down the hall, pausing briefly outside of Rory's room to gather his thoughts before he knocked.

"Come in, Blaine. I've been waiting for ya," the fey's voice rang out from behind the heavy door.

Blaine pushed the door open and within seconds had Rory pinned against the wall. "A caixa," Blaine growled, "you had him handle a caixa? How the bloody hell did you know he'd be able to open it? What are you playing at, boy?"

Rory arched an eyebrow and smirked. "I'm older than you might think, vampire and the question isn't how did I know he could open it, it's whose gonna tell him what it means that he did."

Blaine dropped Rory and sat heavily on the bed. "Explain this to me. Kurt told me his father tried to teach him magic but he never learned to master anything beyond a few basic illusions. He's always believed the only true power he has lies in his ability as a seeker, so how was he able to open a caixa? Only the most powerful witches and fey can even handle one without being overtaken by the dark magic."

Rory smirked. "Indeed. Why do ye think I sent Kurt to fetch it in the first place? The moment I touched it I would have been a goner."

Blaine bit back an angry retort. "You still haven't explained how you knew Kurt could handle it, let alone open it."

Rory sat down next to Blaine. "He's Adeline's. How much do you know about the Caereni?"

"Enough not to cross them," Blaine answered.

Rory nodded. "The bare bones are this: they are ancient, they aren't a great number left and the ruling class is among the most powerful of the fey. Twas the reason Lorcc�n forced Adeline to mate with him. He knew a child with both his Pari and Adeline's Caereni blood would be almost invincible…and he was right on that score. Sam is a damn sight more powerful than most recognize. That's something you might to keep in mind now that you're responsible for keeping his kin happy."

"I respect Sam, but I don't fear him," Blaine said dismissively.

"Yes, well, ignorance is bliss," Rory mumbled. "The point is, Kurt's from one of the oldest and most powerful ruling classes of the fey and his father…his father was Caledonii…between the two-"

"Kurt should possess a tremendous amount of power," Blaine finished. "But he doesn't; he's always believed himself powerless."

Rory got a guarded look and stood up. "Kurt's not powerless; his powers are there he just…hasn't been able to tap into them consistently. From how he handled the caixa I can only surmise that they are just beneath the surface and sometimes when he's under extreme duress they manifest."

Blaine instantly flashed back to Kurt creating the portal that rescued them from Jeremiah the first time and the illusion of the Soulgon demon he'd conjured up to free the prisoners and nodded. "He needs to be trained."

Rory shook his head. "Nay, he needs to be released. Magic like Kurt's doesn't lie dormant unless it's been forced to do so."

Blaine sucked in a sharp breath. "The only person that could have bound his magic-"

"I'm sure Adeline had her reasons. I suspect one of them is sitting on the devil's right side about now, cursing the fact that he didn't see his own flesh and blood wielding the executioners axe," Rory shrugged.

"Why would his mother bind his magic? She left him defenseless!" Blaine thundered.

Rory gave Blaine a knowing look. "Why does any parent do the things they do, Blaine? Surely it's because they think it best for their babes."

Something dangerous flashed in Blaine's eyes at the subtle implication in Rory's tone but he forced himself to calm down. "Indeed, they do." He murmured.

Rory smiled brightly and sat back down beside Blaine. "Send him to Sam in the morn. He'll be able to explain things to Kurt and possibly undo his binding."

Blaine growled. The idea that Sam could do for Kurt what he could not burned. He didn't want Kurt relying on anyone else, not even his brother.

Rory stood up and walked to his door, opening it and motioning to Blaine. "Out with you. The hour is late and I'm tired. Go find yourself a stick with which to beat away that green eyed monster lest you end up becoming its slave," he said quietly.

Blaine gave a harsh laugh and nodded. "He's my mate and I don't share well. I'm trying but don't expect miracles. I won't lose him and I won't let anyone, kin or clan, come between us," Blaine promised as he left.

"No, I don't imagine you would," Rory said to himself as he closed the door. He crossed the room and climbed into the bed, sighing heavily before settling under the covers.

Kurt woke slowly the next morning, his muscles sore and aching, screaming at him but his mind refreshingly clear. He reached out for Blaine but felt nothing but long cooled sheets. He sat up abruptly and looked around, his eyes widening in concern when he saw Blaine sitting on the edge of the bed watching him.

"Are-is everything ok? Are Noah and Nick fighting again? Did something happen to Rory?" Kurt panicked as a horrible thought occurred to him. "Sam! Its Sam isn't it? That Eadbh�rd killed him didn't he? He got to Sam first and he-"

"Kurt!" Blaine moved quickly to wrap his mate in his arms. "Calm down. Everything is fine. I got word from a messenger earlier that Sam has taken care of the traitor and is back at Caisle�n unharmed. Rory is fine and Nick and Noah seem to have agreed to mutual avoidance after the way they upset you yesterday," Blaine soothed.

Kurt pulled back slightly, "Nick and Noah weren't the only ones being impossible," Kurt reminded Blaine.

"Yes well, I didn't mean to upset you but I will not be questioned in my domain by a damn human," Blaine said hotly.

"Mercedes means well," Kurt argued, "She's had to sit silently by for years and watch William treat me like a trained circus monkey. She's just protective and you don't have the best reputation," he pointed out.

Blaine sighed. "Perhaps. Regardless, I'll drain her dry the next time she crosses me."

"You will not," Kurt huffed. "I forbid it."

"You think you can control me, Kurt?" Blaine asked his voice low and dangerous, making Kurt shiver with anticipation.

"I think so, yes." Kurt answered boldly.

Blaine leaned in to kiss Kurt but before their lips could touch there was a loud rap at the door. "Don't lollygag in between the sheets all morn, we have to get a move on soon!" Rory's voice called out.

Kurt turned crimson and Blaine made a discontented rumbling in his chest before yelling out, "I'll keep him in bed as long as I damn well please," which earned him a sharp smack from a scandalized Kurt.

"Don't say that," Kurt hissed, "he'll think we're doing things."

"We are doing things," Blaine pointed out, as he slid a hand up along Kurt's thigh.

"Not anymore," Kurt huffed, smacking Blaine's hand away and getting out of the bed. "It's bad form not to see our guest off."

Blaine paused and gathered his thoughts before speaking. "I'll be seeing Rory off. You need to go with him to Caisle�n and see Sam."

Kurt furrowed his brow. "Why?" he asked puzzled, "Not that I don't wish to see with my own two eyes that he's fine but why do I need to see Sam?"

Blaine sighed and motioned for Kurt to come sit beside him. "Rory and I talked last night and he told me some things that you need to know. Kurt, tell me what you felt when you held the caixa?" Blaine asked.

Kurt gave his mate a baffled look but replied honestly. "I felt magic…dark, powerful, malevolent, overwhelming magic. I know it sounds crazy but it felt as if the caixa were alive and fighting me."

"It's not crazy love because it's true," Blaine said simply, kissing Kurt briefly. "The caixa is made from living magic. None can even handle it but the owner's whose power resides inside and those powerful enough to subdue the magic and solve the puzzle."

Kurt stared at Blaine, eyes frozen wide in shock. "What…what does that mean?"

"What that means dear one," Blaine said taking Kurt's hand and intertwining their fingers, "is that I was right and you are far more extraordinary than anyone gave you credit for being."

"But I don't have magic!" Kurt cried. "Not real magic. I tried, over and over again. Even my father tried to teach me and-"

"What about your mother?" Blaine cut in quickly.

Kurt blinked and thought back over his memories. "No," he said slowly, "she never tried to help me tap into my powers. If anything she guided me towards accepting I was merely a seeker."

Blaine nodded his and Rory's suspicions having been all but confirmed. "Kurt, love, the Caereni are among the most powerful of the fey-"

"Yes but I-"

"Are you aware your father's coven was Caledonii?" Blaine asked.

Kurt drew in a sharp breath. The Caledonii were among the oldest and most sacred witch's coven in the demon world. "But…that...that can't be. If my mother were a Caereni and my father Caledonii then I wouldn't just be a seeker. I'd have some form of magic and-"

"You do love," Blaine said gently. "You can sense the most cleverly disguised of enchantments and magical items. You created that portal and you opened the caixa. There's magic in you Kurt you just can't seem to reach it all the time."

"But that sounds like someone put a binding spell on me," Kurt argued. "I've never been a threat to anyone. There's no one who would have bound me. Truthfully, the only people I was ever with were my parents and-"

The blood drained from Kurt's face as realization dawned. "My mother," Kurt whispered. "She, she's the only one. My father wouldn't have spent years trying to train me if he had bound my magic. My mother never even tried. Why would she do that? I could have protected myself! I never would have been captured or sold or felt like I was worthless and why would she do this to me?"

"Kurt," Blaine said, aching with sympathy for his mate, "I've been thinking and I don't think she did it to you as much as she did it for you."

"How can you say that to me," Kurt demanded his eyes bright with unshed tears. "I was left defenseless. I could have-"

"Been killed," Blaine stated quietly.

"Exactly! I-"

"Kurt, I've been going over the story Sam told us and some of the things Rory told me last night. Sam's half Caereni and half Pari that makes him one of the most powerful demons outside of the council," Blaine explained.

Kurt nodded. "I figured that out for myself when he explained we were brothers. I couldn't understand why Lorcc�n would force a Caereni to mate knowing that our bonding has to be of our choosing until I realized he didn't care about my mother's submission; he just wanted an heir from two of the most powerful classes of fey."

"Yes, but Adeline had a child with a member of one of the most powerful covens in the demon world. She may have been Lorcc�n's queen but she was still a Caereni princess. You would have been considered a prince by Caereni law, illegitimate birth or not," Blaine explained.

Kurt arched a brow. "And?"

"And that makes you threat to Sam's throne, Kurt."

Kurt shook his head. "Sam is the first born and he's legitimate-"

"Kurt, you've lived long enough to know that issues of legitimacy can be taken care of," Blaine scoffed. "If Nick were more ambitious or less trustworthy I'd certainly never turn my back on him. Plus, there's the simple fact that you'd have been more powerful than Lorcc�n himself. Perhaps he simply didn't want you coming after him."

Kurt blinked. "You think he made her bind me, don't you?"

"I'm sure of it."

Kurt bit his lip. It was overwhelming. He'd gone years thinking he was a powerless witch and to find that wasn't the truth and that he may in fact be in possession of more magic than he'd ever dared to dream was mind boggling.

"I need to see Sam." Kurt declared, kissing Blaine quickly and practically running into the bathroom to get ready.

Blaine sighed harshly and ran his hands through his hair. He wanted to accompany Kurt, see firsthand if Samuel could break the binding spell or if the King even would but he had to remain behind. He had to have word sent to the council explaining Jeremiah's demise and Kurt's part in the entire debacle and he had to access the damage to his clan since a number of them had been killed or wounded in the battle with Jeremiah.

An hour later found Kurt sitting across from a fuming Sam. "You just assumed he could open it?" Sam rounded on Rory after Kurt had finished explaining how they'd vanquished Jeremiah and why he was there.

"Twas right, was I not?" Rory shot back and then yelped as Sam sent a bolt of lightning to his backside.

"That's not the point and you damn well know it," Sam roared. "He could have been drained, turned into a puppet for that damn Jinn-"

"But he wasn't so all's well that ends well, eh?"

"Are you daft? He-"

"I am right here," Kurt broke in, "a little worse for wear but in one piece. Now back to the matter at hand, do you think you can undo it if mother bound me?"

Sam closed his eyes. Part of him wanted nothing more to free his brother and train him to use his magic but part of him was reluctant. Kurt had never had power at his fingertips and if he were as powerful as Sam suspected, he was afraid Kurt might end up a slave to his magic instead of its master.

He opened his eyes and stared at Kurt for several moments before exhaling and nodding. "Your glow is golden," he remarked with a smile. "Do you know what that means?"

Kurt shook his head.

"It means you're being guided by your highest good. It symbolizes divine guidance, protection, wisdom, inner knowledge, and the spiritual mind. It means there's no danger in giving you your power because you will use it wisely and justly," Sam said, decisively.

"Sam-"

"That doesn't mean I'll be turning you loose," Sam warned Kurt. "You've apparently got good instincts but you'll need training and you'll need guidance. We'll have regular lessons."

Kurt nodded. He realized that he'd need Sam's help. He was going to potentially go from a powerless witch to a powerful one in span of one spell. The prospect was dizzying and terrifying. He'd need someone who understood the magical arts to keep him grounded and help him make the most out of whatever gifts he had.

Sam walked to his desk and withdrew a bag of colored crystals. He shook out a few, creating a small circle and then beckoned to Kurt and Rory to join him. "I need you both for this," he murmured, "hold onto me and to each other and don't let go or open your eyes until I say."

The cousins rose and joined Sam in the circle, holding tightly to one another's hand and reaching out to grasp Sam's. After a few moments of silence, Sam began the spell.

Lord Ares
Let each strap be unbroken
Each twine unwound
Let the true heart walk its path
Unswayed, unbound
Let his passions be alight
A burning flame, pure and white,
And restore that which is his right
Let all binds break
Remove all ties save fate
And return him to his natural state
Remove the bindings from his destiny
Rewrite what is meant to be
And untie an unjust fate from thee

Kurt felt as if he were being ripped apart from the inside out, but remembered Sam's warning and didn't open his eyes or let go of him or Rory. He faintly heard Rory cry out as if in pain and he tightened his grip on his cousin. Sam's hand began to tremble and Kurt started to worry that he'd made a mistake, that he never should have asked to be unbound but suddenly the pain stopped and he felt as if he were being flooded with warmth, little jolts of electricity started racing along his veins and he found himself feeling a delicious sort of lightness he'd never experienced before.

"Open your eyes, little brother," Sam's voice broke through the haze. "Tis over and you're free."

Kurt cautiously cracked an eye open and then the other. He blinked several times before drawing in a shaky breath. "Are you okay?" He asked Sam worriedly.

"Aye, I'm fine," Sam assured him.

"Rory?" Kurt asked, turning to the brunette. "Are you ok?"

"I'm a bit baffled as to what the holy hell just happened here but I'm ok," Rory answered.

"Good," Kurt said giving a sigh of relief. "So," he said giving Sam a smile, "when do we start finding out just what I can do?"

Sam smiled and Kurt swore the sun had just turned on. "No time like the present," the blonde said mischievously. "Here's your first lesson, catch the lightning."

Before Kurt could say a word he found himself knocked on his rear by a jolt of mild electricity. He scowled up at Sam who merely smiled at him.

"Don't worry, lad," Rory piped up from the corner. "Everyone fails the first lesson."

Kurt returned from Caisle�n exhausted but happy. No sooner than he walked through the door he found himself swept up in Blaine's arms and carried up to their chambers.

"I have missed you all day," Blaine declared between kisses.

"I have been gone but a few hours and I suspect you had more than enough to keep you busy," Kurt laughed.

Blaine shook his head. "It was much too long. You aren't permitted to go away again."

Kurt rolled his eyes. "That's going to make training rather difficult," Kurt replied with a grin.

Blaine froze. "So Sam was able to help?"

Kurt nodded. "You're holding a recently unbound, more than somewhat powerful witch in your arms."

"Well, I suppose that's a good thing," Blaine said neutrally.

"You suppose?" Kurt asked icily.

"Kurt," Blaine said slowly, "I don't want you rushing into danger just because you have powers. You were impossible to manage before-"

"I was impossible?" Kurt exploded indignantly, "You are insufferable! You're the one who-"

"It is my duty to protect my mate and my clan-"

"And it's my duty to defend my family!" Kurt returned hotly.

"You are mine to protect Kurt," Blaine said quietly. "I can't have you following me into battle -and there will be battles- insisting on helping-"

"Well my apologies my lord. If you wanted someone you could keep barefoot and pregnant perhaps you should have chosen a mate with the appropriate parts and-"

"Damn you Kurt, do you not understand that I can't lose you!" Blaine rasped out. "I can't lose you. It would destroy me and…I need you to need me," Blaine confessed.

Kurt smiled and climbed into Blaine's lap. "I will always need you. Just because I'm not quite as helpless as before doesn't mean I don't need you. I never feel safer or more loved than when I am with you," Kurt stated.

Blaine crashed their lips together and began tugging at Kurt's shirt, rucking up out of his pants before there was a knock on the door.

"If this isn't an emergency I'll personally behead whoever is at that door," Blaine yelled as Kurt turned his head into Blaine's neck and giggled.

There was a beat of silence then hushed whispering and then Tina's voice came through. "K-Kurt? Marqu-, uh Mast-um, Blaine? You said we'd talk about you know, my turning and-"

"Come in Tina," Kurt called happily, ignoring the look of frustration on Blaine's face.

Tina and Mike entered slowly, Mike clearly uncomfortable about being in his master's lair uninvited. Kurt smiled to put the vampire at ease and then nudged Blaine, trying to get his mate to look a little less murderous.

"Master-"

"Its fine, Michael," Blaine cut him off quickly. "I know what you came to ask and I'm sorry but the answer is no."

A look of pure betrayal and pain flashed across Mike's features and his shoulders slumped forward. Tina stared at Blaine as if she couldn't believe the words that had just come out of his mouth.

"Blaine!" Kurt said. "They are in love and Mike has been nothing but kind and generous to me and he's loyal to a fault. Has he ever asked you for anything before? I bet he hasn't. He saved my life, Blaine. He protected your love, how can you deny him his?"

"Kurt-"

"Don't Kurt me," the witch continued, "Tina is a good friend. She has been just as lonely as I was before I found you and Mike makes her happy. She deserves that happiness and if she wants it for eternity how dare you deny her!"

"It's ok, Kurt. Master's word is final," Mike said quietly as Tina sniffled beside him.

"Mike-" Blaine began.

"It most certainly is not final!" Kurt retorted. "What is wrong with you, Blaine? I see no reason why-"

"That is enough Kurt!" Blaine's yelled, his voice echoing around the room and bouncing off the walls. Kurt narrowed his eyes and crossed his arms but kept silent. "Thank you," Blaine breathed.

"Now, as I was trying to say, turning Tina now is not an option. She doesn't know enough about our clan or our ways and I don't know that you can handle the responsibilities of becoming a sire. But you are dear to me Michael and that, coupled with your genuine affection for Kurt, and my desire to see you happy lends me to offer you a compromise."

Mike's head snapped up suddenly, hope flashing in his eyes. "A c-compromise?"

"Yes," Blaine said smiling, "You may not change Tina now, but you can mark her. Bond her to you and in a year's time, after she's been with us and truly understands what she'd be signing on for and giving up and I've taught you a bit about fledglings and what to expect when you turn your first one, then if you two still want to turn her, you'll have my blessing."

Tina flew across the room and nearly toppled Blaine with a hug before realizing what she'd done and quickly retreating back behind Mike. "Thank you, Master." Mike says before taking Tina and beating a hasty retreat.

After the pair exited, Blaine stared pointedly at Kurt.

"Fine," the brunette huffed, "I may have jumped to conclusions and probably should have let you finish talking."

"Perhaps," Blaine said with a teasing grin, "it's time to acknowledge that your mate truly does know best."

"I will do no such thing," Kurt replied haughtily.

"Want to bet?" Blaine asked silkily.

"You'll lose," Kurt said, a tad bit breathlessly.

"I never lose," Blaine said before pushing Kurt onto his back and beginning to undress his lover.

As Kurt slept Blaine was pulled out of his dreams by a feeling of desolation. He lay still for a moment and realized that Kurt was sleeping peacefully so it wasn't his mate that was in discomfort.

Nick.

Blaine flew out of bed, stopping briefly to retrieve his robe and then made his way down the hall and into the library, where his brother sat staring at a photograph.

"It's your own fault you know," Blaine said quietly.

Nick shot his brother a pained look before putting the photograph down and standing up. "I know" he said quietly, "your pointing it out ad nauseum doesn't make it any easier."

"Good," Blaine said forcefully, "I don't wish to make it easy. You're being a damned fool Nikolas and-"

"You're a fine one to talk!" Nick fired back. "I know well my mistakes, can you say the same?"

"What-"

"You're still keeping things from Kurt," Nick said quietly.

Blaine's face twisted into a hard mask. "Do not presume you know what's best for me and my mate."

"But you can presume to know what's best for me?"

"Yes," Blaine replied, "because I know you. You are making yourself miserable because you're too much of a coward to admit-"

"You're a fine one to throw about accusations of cowardice," Nick spat. "I'd rather be a coward than a liar. Santana is coming here soon, Blaine. And Kurt still has no idea about anything. You'd better tell him before he finds out some other way."

Both vampires were so immersed in their argument that neither noticed the two figures in the shadows at the end of the hall.

"I'll tell Kurt soon enough," Blaine fired back. "What about you? When are you going to be honest with yourself and with Jeff? Where Santana goes, Brittany follows and you know Jeff will never be too far behind his sister. They will all be here soon…are you going to finally stop this insanity put the both of you out of your misery when he gets here?"

Nick got up from seat and shot past Blaine. "Jeff and I are complicated-"

"Only because you make it so," Blaine insisted.

"That may be, but you and Kurt are mates. Jeff and I, whatever else we may be, we're not that. You can't keep things from him, Blaine. Jeff and Britt won't be a problem, they'll probably adore Kurt and he them but Santana…" Nick drifted off.

"I know," Blaine said sighing heavily. "I can handle Santana and so can Kurt."

"Yeah, but he doesn't even know what's coming," Nick pointed out. "You can't let him be blindsided, Blaine. Tell him, before you run out time."

"I would give the same advice to you, little brother," Blaine said.

"I know," Nick said quietly before he left.

Blaine took a moment to shake off the feeling of impending doom and quietly made his way back to his lair.

"Did you hear that?" Mercedes asked Noah after Blaine had disappeared.

"He's lying to Kurt about something…something big," Noah mused.

"He's keeping a secret about some woman," Mercedes spat, "Given who he is it's probably some mistress or something. Whoever she is it doesn't sound like she'll be too pleased to find Kurt here."

"I don't know who Santana is and I don't care but I'll rip our charming host to shreds if Kurt's caused a moment's pain or discomfort because of her," Noah swore.

"For mercy's sake boy, calm down," Mercedes said, rolling her eyes. "Right now all we know is company's coming and it's a mixed bag. Jeff and Brittany sound like good news but Santana sounds like the bad penny turning up. We have to find out who these people and whether they're a threat before we rip anyone to shreds."

Noah grumbled but agreed, silently vowing that if Blaine's secrets and lies hurt Kurt he'd make sure the vampire didn't live long enough to regret it.