The deep red sports car sped through red lights and careened around corners and yet never seemed to draw the attention of the police as it raced along, barely avoiding the other vehicles in its path. Faal's knuckles were white from where they griped the steering wheel, whispering to himself over and over to let Lex be alright...Let him get there in time... *   Meeks led Lex into a stair well and started down them before Lex came over his confusion. "Where are you leading me?" he asked finally, stopping. Meeks glanced back at the door, before saying softly. "I don't really work for LiVed, Lex. I work for some one else...who would rather not see you around this guy...He's not your friend, Rowen isn't either. I know you've been tossed around today, but right now, it would be a wise idea to leave." She said softly in a rather calm voice. Lex groaned. "This is getting fucking ridiculous." He muttered. Meeks gave a sympathetic grin. *   There was the screech of tires and the smell of burnt rubber as the car slammed to a halt out side the L corporation building, and Faal lept from the car at a run. He didn't know where Lex was inside, but he somehow KNEW he was... he felt an odd stirring in the air around him as he ran, angry at himself for allowing this to happen, angry at whoever was behind it... and terrified that Lex might be hurt because of him... * "Either way, it's a good idea to get you out..." Meeks said, taking his arm gently. Lex hesitated, but for some reason, he felt he could trust this girl. With a sigh he let her lead him. They were half way down the stairs, when the alarms went off. "Oo, they've found us gone." "I thought you said..."  "I lied." Meeks replied, picking up the pace, but producing two metal fighting fans. *   Faal heard the alarms sounding as he slammed through the doors, and it took him a moment to realize that he hadn't set them off. He smirked, the feeling in the air shifting more and he thought he caught a hint of a rainbow at the edge of his vision. He raised an eyebrow as he tried to orient on the feeling of Lex, heading off in the direction that 'felt' right. It had been quite a long time since his maagic had manifested this way... but then, he rarely used any of his abilities aside from the glamour that hid his true appearance.... * Meeks led Lex down the stairs quickly and into a hall on the ground floor. They could hear the noise around them. "We've just got to get out of here, with out being caught...And then Lex..." Meeks looked at him. "You need to go some where safe..." Lex looked at her a moment. * Faal felt an odd tug inside him and he turned toward the direction it led without thinking, his mind solely focused on finding Lex. He hadn't even noticed the sword appearing in his hand as he walked, the faint rainbow shimmer shifting through the air around him as he strode through the halls. He thought he saw a flash of red and green up a ahead and he quickened his pace, wondering if he should call out.. *   Meeks glanced around a corner, seeing a couple security men grouped together and frowned, turning back to Lex. "I'd rather not have to kill too many people, but if I have to do that to get you out of here..." She said.   "Why are you helping me?" Lex asked in a near whisper.   Meeks smiled warmly. "Because Lex, that's what I do. Not everyone wants something, kiddo. Remember that."   Faal skidded to a halt as he came around the corner to find Lex standing with a green haired woman who's back was too him. He gave a choked sigh of relief and without thinking reached out, grabbing Lex by the arm and pulling him to him. Wrapping one arm around the startled red head, he ket the sword trained on the woman. "Thank Terra I found you, Lex! I was terrified that you'd been hurt... " he said, the emotion in his voice plain. "Are you alright, little one?"   Lex startled in surprise and stared at him, before attempting to pull away. "I'm fine." He muttered. Meeks chuckled, looking back at them. Lex gave her a look. "Hold up Lex, we still gotta get you out of here. I would suggest the back door. And oh, before I forget." Meeks grabbed one of Lex's hands. "Now you'll remember why its so important for you to stay away from Abadon." She said, releasing the memory spell Abadon had put on Lex before sending him after Xander. Lex went wide eyed with a gasp, before passing out.   "Those always hurt..." Meeks muttered shaking her head.   Faal scowled, banishing his sword in order to scoop the unconcious redhead into his arms. "You could have given a bit of warning before hand... I almost dropped him." he said, and headed back the way he came, not checking to see if she followed or not. He pulled his power close around them, letting it act like a shield.   Meeks trotted along behind them. "Well he might have put up a bit of fight if I HAD of warned first...Besides, only reason he's so much of a problem now anyway is because Abadon blocked off the more improtant memories...Trust me on this...you'll find him much more coporative now."   "Thank you, my dear" he said as he hurried through the building. "and might I say that, although it's not to my taste, you looking stunning with your hair that shade... brings out your eyes... I'm sure your mother is horrified.."   She snickered. "Oh well, she'll get over it." Meeks replied with a wave. She'd go with them as far as getting out side. "Mind you, he might have one hell of a headache when he wakes up...but he should be a little more ready to agree to things."   Faal sighed softly. "It was my fault he ended up here... thank Terra you were here to help him in my place, Aiyla. I'm not much of a guardian it seems..." he gave a snort. "Not surprizing since i'm not much of a prince, either.." he cast a glance at her as they pressed themselves agaisnt a corner waiting for the hall ahead to clear. "Dare I ask why you're here, dear neice?"   "Workin' a job for Rue. Who's quite in the know how about Rowen anyway...As for the guardian thing...hey...give it time, ya might improve." She said with a smirk. "I won't say much about the prince bit, cause I ain't much of a princess am I?"   Faal chuckled. "Ah.. but you, my dear come by your royalty through adoption... I supposedly have it in my blood..." he quickly made his way to the door, Lex cradled in his arms as gently as he could. "I guess all the royal blood went to Estehl and the girls and I got whatever was left over, hmm?"   Meeks snorted. "It's just a title...If it makes you feel any better, you're much better then most princes I've known...including Estehl. just ask mother." Lex begin to stir and Meeks raised an eyebrow. "Better go..."   Faal slowed down enough to lean over an place a hurried kiss on Meek's forehead. "Be careful, sweetheart." he said softly as he made a run for his car, the drivers door swinging open as he approached. "Hang on, little one... almost out of here... sorry for the rough treatment..." he said as he shoved Lex through the door and across the seat to the passenger side, and climbed behind the wheel.   Meeks watched them go before heading for the security floor, it was time to put a bit of a kink in LiVed's plans. * Lex stirred, feeling very confused and remembering a LOT of bad things.   The car was already spinning its tires before Faals door even closed. And he reached across Lex to snap the seat belt in place before slamming the car in gear and taking off. He glanced in the mirror, not seeing any sign of pursuit and wondered why it had been so easy... he glanced at Lex, who was stirring slightly. "Are you alright, little one?" he asked softly, finally allowing the car to slow to almost the speed limit.   Lex pressed the heels of his hands into his closed eyes. "No..." he muttered in a whisper. "I'm not alright."   Faal reached across to pat his leg with one hand. "You will be... I know it doesn't seem like it right now... but you will be. I'll help you as much as I can... as much as you need me." he said softly, his eyes on the road as he maneuvered a slightly circuitous route home, avoiding the roads he'd raced through to get to him.   Lex curled up smaller on the seat, not wanting to talk at the moment, he made no move to stop Faal when he patted his leg, only curled up smaller, his head in his arms as he remembered things...   A movement on the floor by Lex's feet drew Faals attention and he chuckled softly. "Watch your feet, if you don't mind.. I seem to have brought your book along for the ride... I don't even remember having it with me..."   Lex looked up at him with blinking eyes, then down at the floor board and saw the wrapped book. He hesitated a moment, before reaching down and picking up the book, sliding it out of the cloth cover. Some how he wasnt surprised to see it in such perfect condition.   Faal watched the way he handled the book so lovingly and smiled softly, an idea already in his head. "If you'd like, I'll have a key card made for you so you can help yourself to the archives... I don't think you'd be any safer elsewhere. I saved my best security for my books..." he chuckled softly.   "Thank you." Lex answered softly, still looking at the book. He hardly noticed where they were going. He was lost in thought more then anything.   "You're welcome Lex... it's the least I can do... I'm sorry this happened. I should've told the guard to stay with you no matter what.. or deny everyone access unless I was there with you... or something.." he said, still angry with himself. "I'm sorry."   Lex shook his head slightly, "I'm the one who took his hand." He said softly, turning his eyes from the book to look out the window.   "Lex... I'm suppose to be protecting you. Me .. not some guard.. not Clarice.. not even your father. You're safety is my responsiblity. I wasn't there when you needed me. End of story."   "I'm not completely helpless. I made the choice." Lex replied coldly. Then, looked away. "Or was it a lie when you said I should make my own choices?"   Faal sighed, smiling softly. "No Lex.. it wasn't a lie. But at the time, you were in no condition to make that choice... I should've been there for you..."   Lex shook his head, looking back at the book, thumbing gently through the pages idelly. "And when we get back there?" He asked softly.   "You can have you pick of the guest rooms if you'd like, but I'd rather have you closer. I'd feel better. I have an apartment there... there's a spare room. I'd like you to stay there if you don't mind..." he said quietly, feeling that odd flutter back in his stomach, and this time no iron to blame it on. "Of course, like I said... there are guest rooms downstairs as well...."   "You're going to trust me around Xander?" Lex asked softly, looking over at him. He was still trying to figure the man out. He wasn't used to the kindess or the offers and that made him wary.   "Hmm?" Faal said, turning to glance at Lex for amoment. "Oh , right.. well.. I don't think that's a problem, anymore, is it, little one?" he asked softly, turning into the lane. "I trust, as well, that you won't be trying to run off to Abadon either... "   Lex looked away again, closing the book in his lap and carefully wrapping it back up. "No, I suppose you're right..." He said softly. "More then right..." He curled up smaller in the seat. Faal quickly found his parking spot and shut the car off, noting that the garage was empty of people. He remembered Charli had been hurt and hoped she was alright. With a sigh he turned to face Lex. "We're here, Lex. Shall we go upstairs?"   Lex was caressing the covering on the book absently, staring out the window. He shrugged. "I've got nothing else to loose." He whispered softly.   Fal reached out and rested a hand on his shoulder, drawing Lex's attention to him . "No Lex.... you have everything to gain."   Lex drew back away from Faal's touch as far as the car door would let him.   "I'm sorry..." he said, withdrawing his hand. "I'll try to be more.. careful... I didn't mean to...." he broke off with a soft sigh and a sad smile, opening his door. He moved around to the other side and opened Lex's door, standing well back to give him plenty of room. "Shall we?"   Lex slipped out of the car, holding the book to his chest, out of comfort, which he knew probably looked incredibly silly, but something about holding a book calmed him down some. He looked about the garage, and wondered just how big the place was.   Faal lead the way across the garage to the elevator. "Would you like to go to.. well.. choose a room first? Or would you like a bit of a tour first... ?" he asked softly, afriad of startling the boy again. "The apartments are on the top two floors.. the third floor has the archives and a conference room... the second floor has the offices and guestrooms as well as a communal kitchen... "   "I think it would be best to skip the tour, least I run into Xander, don't you?" Lex asked softly, still carrying the book. "Even if I'm not trying to kill him, it's still bad blood between him and I."   "Well.. that makes things a bit awkward.. after all... if you're going to be staying in the guest rooms, you'll be using the kitchen that also serves as a staff room.. and you'll be right near the offices..." he pressed the button and waited for the elevator. "But like I said.. you can stay in my spare room... I assure you, Xander has never and most likely never will set foot in there..."   "I think I'll take option of where Xander's not." Lex replied, wondering if he hadn't made a mistake with choosing that option. He wondered just how much of a gentleman Faal was. They always started out as gentlemen, but they never stayed that way long around him.   Faal smiled softly. "Alright. You can help yourself to anything in the fridge , freezer, cupboards ... there are plenty of fresh towels and such in the bathroom. I believe i have a spare toothbrush somewhere in there as well... bought it a few days ago and haven't switched yet.. you're welcome to it.. i'll pick up another one when i think of it..." he said as he stepped in the elevator and waited for Lex. "I have quite a few books there as well.. they should tide you over until i get you a key card for the archives..."   Lex stood staring at him wide eyed as he said all that. "Right..." Lex said softly, before stepping into the elevator. "You have women's clothes up there too? Sounds almost as if you do this a lot..."   Faal laughed softly, blushing. "No... no.. as a matter of fact.. I believe you will be my first houseguest... in a very long time. As a matter of fact, I believe the last would be ...Oh.. that would be back when I first met cCarice and set about trying to help her... that was...thirty some odd years ago? Lards.. has it been that long...?!"   Lex looked at him with a raised eyebrow. "You're immortal?" He asked softly.   Faal smiled softly, blushing. "Yes... well.. I'm Elven fae and Faeire as far as blood goes... the immortal part comes from something else... actually.." he frown slightly and glanced at Lex. "Come to think of it, I'll have to give that up now that you're here...."   "Give what up?" He asked, leaning his shoulder against the other wall, watching Faal.   "The immortality part. "he said, watching the numbers of the floors. "I'm only immortal because I'm a guardian of the Phoenix Stone... and I can't be a guardian for that as well as for you... and since you need me more...." he gave a slight shrug. "I suppose I shall retire.. give up my sword. Let someone else take over and become immortal..."   "Don't." Lex replied. "I'm not worth the trouble for one..." He added, looking at the floor. "I'm really nothing but trouble."   Faal raised an eyebrow as he turned to look down at the petite red head. "You're wrong, Lexine.. you are worth it." he turned back to face the door. "I think you are. And it's my choice, after all. What do you care? You don't even like me....."   Lexine looked down at the floor. "I haven't said that..." He muttered in a whisper. Lexine frowned slightly, what did he care? He wasn't supposed to...he didn't even know Faal... he didn't know anyone here...except Xander...   Faal glanced over at the boy behind him, almost hiding in the corner as the doors slid open on the top floor. "I hope you will. I like you." he stepped out and waited for Lex to follow.   Lex stepped out of the elevator and raised an eyebrow, staying slight behind Faal. "Define like..." he muttered in the same whispered tone, wry.   Faal smirked as he led the way to the apartment and unlocked the door. " 'Like', Lex.. as in I find you a very intriguing young man who seems to share my passion and love for books.. someone I would like to get to know better and be friends with..." he pushed the door open. "Especailly considering, as your guardian, i'll be spending quite a lot of time around you."   Lex eyed him, as he slipped into the apartment. "Right..." he answered softly, still carrying the book. He glanced around the front room of the apartment, taking every detail, what was there, in. "In my experinece men don't think like that.."   Faal blushed, suddenly relaizing what Lex meant by his questions. "Oh.. oh.. Lex... no offense.. you're a very attractive young man and all... but... I... I perfer women..." he said, feeling his face burning crimson as he shut the door behind them. "I mean .. I have been with another guy .. just the one...... centuries ago... " he realized he was babbling, and oddly enough a part of him was screaming at him calling him a liar... he blushed deeper realizing what that odd flutter he'd been feeling around him was.   Lex moved further into the room, before looking back at Faal with what most people would call an innocent expression, although there was something else brewing in his eyes. "Lucky girl then, " He said in a very soft tone, Faal swallowed, trying to decide whether or not he should tell Lex... he didn't want this hanging between them becoming a lie as the feeling grew.. which he knew it would.... but at the same time, he didn't want to make him uncomfortable around him...   Lex watched him, he felt a slight shiver run up his back and glanced away a moment, yet the other side of him wanted to press the matter, and he almost wanted to make Faal as uncomfortable as possible. He turned fully around to face him, before setting the book on the near by end table. Titling to his head to the side he gave him a rather coy expression. "I'm assuming a man like you has a girl friend..."   Faal glanced up, blushing more. "No. I don't recall ever having anyone I cared about enough to call 'girlfriend' in that way. I've dated.. had lovers.... but.. nothing serious.. and not for a while..." he said, reaching back to run his hand over his hair. In a nervous gesture, he pulled his pony tail out and set about combing it through with his fingers and redoing it as he spoke. "Actually, Lex.... I feel I should say something... I wasn't exactly truthful.. I mean, I WAS, at the time.. I thought... but once I said it, I relaized that i.. well... I do find myself attracted to you in that way.... but i assure you ... i won't.. i mean .... you don't have to worry...."   Lex straigtened his head as he moved back toward Faal. "Yus, I can see that..." He said in the same tone, he watched Faal, his eyes sparkling oddly and when he lifted his gaze to look at his face, the light seemed to shift in his eyes, making them brighter.   Faal swallowed, suddenly very uncomfortable. He hadn't been attracted to another man since...well.. it had been over half a lifetime ago... and the young man infront of him... well.. he was supposed to be protecting him... he should try to keep some distance between them, or he wouldn't be able to do that... he found himself looking down into those breathtaking eyes and whispered softly. "Please...." Lex looked up at him, holding his gaze, he felt that shiver again, he knew he was captivated by the man in front of him, Most would have used Lex there. But yet he felt...well safe with Faal. "I'm not doing anything..." He replied in a whisper.   Faal closed his eyes. "Oh yes.. you are... trust me...." he said softly, fighting the very strong urge to take the boy in his arms and see if those lips tasted as wonderful as they looked... he cleared his throat, opeing his eyes. "Oh Sweet Terra... I uh... I..." he found himself backing away slowly.   "I'm not." Lex replied, but despite every instinct that told him to back down now, he found he stepped closer, not by much, just a step, but still. A part of him was still pushing his luck, he knew it. And he wasn't sure which consequences would be worst, Faal mad at him, or...something else completly...   Faal stumbled as the back of his legs met the edge of a chair and he suddenly found himself sitting with Lex right in front of him and nowhere to run to. "Lex... look...I.. we really shouldn't.... I mean.. i would like to... i would really really like to.... but..."   Lex stopped awfully close, he could smell his colonge and had to bite the inside of his cheek. "But what?" He asked softly, raising a coy eyebrow.   Faal leaned as far back in the chair as he could. "Lex... I... i'm trying very hard, but if you... please stop... I..." he was extremely aware of how close Lex was... the way the light fell across his face... making the red of his hair almost glow in places... and his eyes...Faal swallowed again. ... gods those eyes....   Lex was very tempeted to just take matters in to his own hands, very tempted. A part of him was trying to get him to back off now before he made it worse for himself, which he always did. But the other part, damn but he wanted to prove there were no such thing as gentlemen...so he leaned closer, a hand coming with in a breath of touching Faal's chest.   Faal suddenly jumped as if burned and climbed right over the chair. He kept backing up towards the closest door. "Lex...really... I said I wouldn't... oh lord.. don't look at me like that..."   Lex almost tumbled right into the chair and managed to save himself and slip around it, to lean against the other arm, the way he shifted his shoulders, the left strap of his top slipped down, revealing the branded mark of Abadon on his shoulder. But he continued to look at Faal. "Words are the beginning of actions," He quoted.   Faal made a soft noise at the quote and grabbed for the door knob behind him. "I....I promised.. Lex... sweet Terra... I swore you didn't have to worry... I meant it..." he fumbled with the door behind him, not wanting to turn his back on Lex. "Um... make yourself at home.... second door on the right down the hall there is your room... bathroom is the door at the end..." he stammered.   Lex moved away from the chair, his shirt still hanging off his shoulder and pointedly made the long way around the furniture in the living room, so that his path took him right past Faal again, with out a word. He didn't know why he had to push so hard, but passing Faal he got another whiff of his colonge and actually whimpered softly, pausing.   Faal found himself suddenly in an awkward position...he had the door open... but couldnt slip out since it opened inward.. and he was standing infront of it.. and moving enough to open it would put him rather close to Lex....he closed his eyes as Lex passed by... afraid of what might happen if he looked into those eyes again...   Lex turned slightly toward him, silently breathing the scent in deeper, then noticed Faal's eyes were closed. Part of him was surprised to see he'd gotten to him so much. "I'm sorry..."he muttered.   "It's alright...really.. I just... I like you.. I do... you're incredibly smart and well read... and sexy as.." he swallowed, squeezing his euyes tighter. "Its been quite a while Lex... and you've had a very... I dont want to take advantage of you... please..."   Lex had started away, then had to pause, turning back again. "And yet I wonder," He said softly. "Would you really be taking advantage of me...or would it be the other way around?" He asked in a soft husky tone.   Faal swallowed hard at that and suddenly felt his knees give out. He landed on his rear looking up at Lex, his back pressing the door closed behind behind him. "Lexine... you don't know what your saying... "   "I'm not an idiot." Lex replied, all the desire just to prove to this man what he was dealing with returning and he didn't even hesitate to stalk back toward him. "I know damn well what comes out of my mouth..." He smirked preditorily, suddenly. "Or what goes in..."   Faal gave a soft yelp at that and tried to move back farther despite the fact that he had no where to go. He realized he must look incredibley foolish.... he wondered just how things had taken this turn.. he couldn't recall ever being effected so strongly by someone before.. and a part of him wanted very strongly to jump in and enjoy it for all it was worth...   Lex wasn't quite sure how he ended up on his hands and knees, closing the distance between them he just knew he wasn't done yet and if he was going to land himself in trouble, he might as well make it worth it. He lowered his head, looking through his lashes at Faal.   Faal groaned as he found himself staring at those incredible eyes.. eyes that were giving him probably THE sexiest look he'd ever received..."Lex..." he said, his voice barely even a whisper. He felt his tenuous grasp on self control slipping and knew if he didn't get out of this room and away from this boy as quickly as he could.....   Lex leaned closer on his hands, very close, he could feel Faal's body heat and his lips parted ever so slightly. "Yus?" He asked in a whisper, still watching him with the same look.   Faal suddenly leaned forward and kissed him, both hands coming up to either side of Lex's head. He heard himself whimper with pleasure as he stroked and probed with his tongue, tasting every inch of his mouth. He knew he should stop.. the boy had lived his entire life as someone's sex toy.. he deserved to know there was more to life... he deserved better...   Lex had startled slightly, he'd known it was coming, but still, it'd caught him by surprise. And yet he didn't pull away...he moaned softly as he found himself leaning forward even more, enticed to submit to the kiss, instead of forced to.   Faal felt Lex moan through the kiss and found himself kissing him even deeper, one of his hands slipping down to pull him closer against him. Even through his clothes he felt as if he was on fire when Lex pressed against him and he whimpered with his need for this intoxicating boy...   Lex found himself kissing him back in a way he'd never kissed any one before, a want growing in him for something more, something he'd never really felt before, which both frightened and enticed him more and he straddled Faal's lap, slipping his arms around his neck as he kissed him passionately.   Lex's weight on top on him, pressing against him harder brought him instantly alert and he broke the kiss, practically picking him up in order to scramble to his feet. "Lex... I love you .I mean .. i'd love too. I really would... but... but I can't do that .. not to you... there's more to life an you deserve it all .. not just ..sweet Terra... look what you do to me.. you've got me babbling like ..like.. " he made the mistake of looking down into those eyes agian and it was as if he could still feel their bodies pressed together.. "I'm sorry..." he said and ran, stumbling in his haste for the door, getting turned around in his haste and winding up locking himself in his bedroom rather then leaving the apartment...   Lex stood there a moment blinking in confusion and breathing heavily. He couldn't quite figure what just happened. One moment he was pushing buttons, then being kissed in a way he'd never been kissed AND returning said kiss in a way he never knew he could and now...He backed away from the door, but the fingers of one hand went to his lips which were still tingling... he gave a nervous giggle., Faal pressed his back against the door, trying to push away thoughts of the sexy fire elemental waiting for him... He moaned softly and pushed himself away from the door, throwing himself down onto the bed and burying his face in the pillow... "Damn...... damn damn damn damn..”. he muttered softly...   Lex managed to find the spare room and looked around, but didn't really see anything. His lips where still tingling and he really couldn't think of anything else. "Oh what have you done now..." He muttered to himself with a groan, before shaking his head furiously. He moved over to the bed, rubbing his shoulder, over the branded mark and tryed to get some organization to his thoughts, but he just couldn't stop thinking about the kiss. Faal heard a door close and listened for a moment, deciding he was in the spare room. with a groan he shoved himself to his feet and went to the door, easing it open slowly. The bedroom door was closed and he gave a soft sigh of relief that turned into a moan of frustration as he was suddenly bombared by images of Lex in bed... he decided a cold shower sounded like a wonderful idea.   Lex leaned back against the head of the bed, still absently rubbing his shoulder. He made a frustrated noise and decided this was not going to work...he'd started something out there...and not just on Faal's end...if he had to be any where near Faal from this point, he was going to have a very hard time about it now... maybe he should just try a guest room. Staying in the man's apartment was going to put him around him a little to much... The water running full blast and as cold as he could get it, Faal stood under the stream and shivered, sure he was turning blue... and yet stull unable to get the kiss out of his head....   Lex mulled the idea over for as long as he could...and was distracted. But his distraction only made it more clear. Gods...how could he have fallen for the man?! He didn't even know him! And yet...he wanted Faal to kiss him like that again...more then kiss him... Lex groaned, getting off the bed. He at least owed him an explanation to why he was going to stay in a guest room... He left the guest room very quietly.   Faal shut off the water with a sigh, resting his head against the cold tiles for a moment before reaching up to squeeze the water from his hair, then wrapped a towel around his waist. He went to stand in front of the mirror, his reflection clear before him. He looked at the man before him for a moment and suddenly let the glamour drop, not wanting to see Faal Dominic right then... instead, Elander Errin stared back at him, the long pale hair hanging over one shoulder in a think wet rope, leaving his back bare to the icy cold dribbles running down it. "What are you doing, you fool?" he asked his reflection. "Don't be such an ass... he wanted you as badly as you wanted him... why are you hiding??"   Lex stepped into the hall, letting his eyes look around for a moment, not sure how he was going to say what needed to be said with out seeming like a complete prat...after all, he was certainly kissing him back just as boldly. He felt his cheeks flush at that thought, he knew it was true...and if Faal hadn't broken the kiss, he'd gladly have given himself. He leaned his shoulder against the wall, his back to the rest of the hall, trying to stifle the nervous giggle.   Faal closed his eyes for a moment then pushed himself away from the counter and turned, going for the door. He wasn't sure what he was going to do in the long run, but he had to face Lex and find out what was between them.. otherwise being his guardian ws going to be a living hell... he took a deep breath and yanked open the door stepping into the hall and coming up short as he saw Lex standing not two feet from him...he was suddenly extremely aware that he was without glamour in nothing but a towel....   Lex startled at the sound of the door opening behind him and turned around. Then gasped...well he expected to see Faal...just not like that...Two things registered, the fact that was wet, and in a towel, and the fact that he was with out the glamour and Lex stared at those eyes, knowing he was lost.   "Lexi.... Lexine.. I..." Faal stammered then closed his eyes for a moment and took a deep breath. When he opened them again he took the last two steps until he was infront of him and let his hands rest on Lex's waist. "I'm sorry I freaked out... I..want you more then I can ever remember wanting anyone... just looking into your eyes drives me insane with thoughts of you..." he said softly. "I'm just... afraid of hurting you. You've been through so much, Lexine... I don't want you to do something you're not ready for.... I'd never forgive myself..."   Lex snorted softly, looking up at him. He took a breath, before saying softly. "Well I do believe I was kissing you just as much." He pulled away from the wall, which put him even closer to Faal.   Faal swallowed nervously. "I know... but... I'm not one for one night stands, Lex. If I make love to you... It'll be because I want all of you ... not just your body...."   "You'd be the first..." Lex answered softly, he hesitated a moment, then raised his hand, placing it on Faal's chest. He'd certianly be the first in more ways then one, already was. Lex had never felt like this before.   "That's what I mean Lex... you've had life time of sex... but nothing of the love and tenderness you deserve... I want you to feel those too. Not just ...sex..." he said, his voice soft and sad as he stroked Lex's ribs with his thumbs. "I want you, Lexine...I want you to be happy and safe and loved... I want to be the one you love in return..." he whispered so softly he wasn' even sure he'd said it out loud as he leaned down to brush his lips against the red hair.   Lex closed his eyes, feeling the way Faal held him. He thought his knees would give out with just the words he was hearing, let alone the feelings that suddenly surged through him. "Are you sure you want me?" He asked in a whisper, eyes still closed.   Faal sighed softly and suddenly pulled Lex against him, wrapping his arms around him and laying his face againt the red hair. "Sweet Terra yes... I've always wondered what people meant when they spoke of the way they felt loving someone... now I know... I undertand what they meant when they said just seeing someone made their knees weak...or their heart beat faster..."   "Is there really such thing as love at first sight?" Lex asked in a whisper, not really caring if he was answered, just knowing he'd never in his life felt like this...wanted some one as much as he did. more then just lust. He'd never been held like this...   "There must be, Lex..." he said softly, gently stroking his back as he held him. "I felt it the first time I saw you.. i just didn't recognize it for what it was...." he pressed his lips agaist him, loving the tickled of the soft red locks against his lips. "I'm forever, Lexine... if you want me... I'm forever.."   Lex turned his head upward, doing so bought his face up to meet Faal's and he looked at him a long moment, then slid his arms around Faal's neck, kissing him softly.   Faal returned the kiss, his heart soaring at the contact. "Do you want me, Lex?" he asked softly between kisses. "Will you let me love you forever..?"   "Yus..." Lex breathed behind the kiss, his eyes closed, and he melted against him, clinging to him as he deeped the kiss.   Faal made a noise half way between a sigh and a moan and suddenly scooped Lex into his arms, not breaking the kiss any further then neccessary as he turned and carried him into his room. He crawled onto the bed, his towel coming undone and falling to the side as he lay Lex down along side him.   Lex continued to kiss him, over come with the desire and want for Faal, never believing anyone could do this time, let alone get him to react this way. Anything before had always been so brutal and painful, this...this was something entirely different   Taking his time, determined to let Lex enjoy every second to its fullest, Faal let his hands slip under the shirt, gently stroking his ribs as he concentrated on kissing him. He kept the kisses gently but passionate, being extra careful not to hurt him.   Lex still had one arm wrapped around Faal's neck, the fingers of that hand playing with his hair at the nap of his neck. His other hand slid over his chest and he whimpered softly against the kisses.   His heart fluttering at the sound of Lex's whimpers of pleasure, Faal let his hands push the shirt up, breaking the kiss long enough to pull it off then moved slightly to kiss his way over the exposed skin on his chest.   Lex squirmed slightly with a soft moan, his eyes still closed. He couldn't quite believe this was happening...or that he'd let it happen...and yet he didn't want it to stop.   Lex's soft moans and whimpers were driving him to the edge, but Faal forced himself to not rush. This was probably the very first time in the boy's life that he'd been made love too and not just screwed... he did his best to take his time, tasting every inch of skin that lay before him, letting his tongue trail lightly over the various scars, sending little shivers through Lex. Finally, after he'd made his way down to his stomach, he began to work Lex out of his pants, pushing them down slowly as he kissed his way south...   Lex shifted, he managed to slip out of the sandals he was wearing. The lower Faal's kisses got, the more Lex whimpered, a voice in the back of his head was demanding what the hell he thought he was doing...this couldn't be real...well not this part, but what he was feeling for a man he didn't even know.   He was down to his knees and half off the bed by the time he pushed the pants completely off, underwear along with them. He wasn't sure where his towel had landed but figured a wet spot on his floor was definately worth this... he kised his way down to the ankles and would've continued over the rest of the feet, but Lex went into a giggle fit, jerking his feet away. Chuckling softly, he caught the feet and held them steady long enough to place a kiss on each big toe before lettng them go. He knelt on the foot of the bed for a moment, looking down at the young man stretched out naked before him and felt his heart flutter almost painfully at the sight.   Lex was breathing heavy from the short giggle fit, he looked up at Faal with a purely naive and wide eyed expression that betrayed all the earlier attitudes, then lay back in the bed the rest of the way.   Still unable to believe he was doing this with someone he had just met...or that he felt so strongly about him.. Faal crawled half way up the bed and resumed his mouths journey to cover every inch of skin. He ran his hands gently over him as he kissed and licked his way over his thighs again, gently pushing his legs apart.   Lex sank back against the pillows with a strangled moan, biting his bottom lip, his eyes closed. One hand was gripping the cover on the bed, the other twisting into the pillow by his head.   Faal felt his heart beat faster as he felt and heard Lex's reaction to his attentions. He figured he'd most likely never been on the receiving end before and chuckled softly as he lifted his eyes enough to watch Lex as he wrapped his fingers around the length of him and let his mouth follow..   Lex gasped with a little cry, and tightened his grip on the things he was holding, his hips coming off the bed a bit. His mind practically stopped working, he didn't know if he could handle this...   Gently pressed Lex back against the mattress, he continued with his slow torture. The sounds and wiggles coming from Lex only pushing him onwards.   He twisted and wiggled under Faal as he continued, Lex moaning almost continiously now. This was getting to be to much, he didn't know how much more he could take. He'd never felt anything like it.   Faal finished with a last kiss as he pulled back and crawled the rest of the way up the bed . He held himself up on his arms, looking down at Lex lying beneath him. "Still want me, little one? An eternity of this kind of love...?" he asked softly, feeling his damp hair spill over his shoulder to fall over Lex.   Lex was still breathing heavy, possibly more so then before and he gazed up at Faal with a soft look, his eyes fluttering slightly, he was flushed and looking completely contented. He lifted one hand to Faal's hair, curling a lock of it around his fingers. "Yus..." He breathed. Faal smiled softly and eased hismelf down enough so he was pressed along the length of Lex. He leaned down and caught those tempting lush lips with his own. He'd never wanted anyone this bad before. Afraid of hurting him, he decided, that as much as he wanted to be inside him.... or vice versa... he would wait until Lex asked. Instead, he rubbed lightly against Lex, feeling the silky hardness of Lex against him.   Lex slid his arms around Faal's neck as he kissed him, whimpering softly behind the kiss, but he began to tremble. He suddenly didn't think he could do this. It wasn't that he didn't want to be with Faal, he'd just never been treated like this, the gentleness actually scared him.   "Little one..." Faal said softly as he kissed him, feeling the trembling grow stronger. He let himself slide off to one side, turning Lex in his arms and keeping him pressed as close to him as he could. "What's wrong little one.. my little flame..." he said, still kissing him softly, caressing his face.   A couple of tears slipped down Lex's cheeks and he closed his eyes and whimpered again. Part of him wanted to pull away, the rest of him clung to Faal. He'd never felt so safe..."I don't know if I can do this..." He whimpered plantively, opening his eyes again.   "Do what, litle one?" he asked softly between butterfly-gentle kisses. and caresses. "Tell me what you want from me, Lexine..."   Lex gave a strangled moan, still clinging to him, his eyes fluttering closed again. "I don't know..." He whispered. "No one's ever...ever treated me like this..." He sniffled softly, taking a breath. "I'm scared..." He would have never admitted that to anyone else.   Faal pulled back enough to look at him, running his fingers lightly over his cheek, caressing the inverted tear drop beneath one eye. "What can I do to help you not be scared, my little flame...? Do you want me to stop?" he asked softly.   Lex tried not to sniffle again, but he turned his face against Faal's carassing, "No...yus...I don't know...I just...I've never felt this way, about anyone...I've spent my whole life afraid of everyone else..."   Faal sighed, wrapping his arms around him and resting his cheek against Lex's forehead. "Oh little one... those days are behind you now... this is just the beginning.." he said softly, letting his hands stroke the scars along his back. "I don't want you to ever be afraid of me, darling one... " he said and tipped his chin back to kiss him again.   Lex sighed against the kiss, closing his eyes. He wanted to ask if Faal could really protect him from Abadon, he wanted to believe it. He'd give anything to be free of the gate keeper but he also knew Abadon would eventually come for him. Rather he'd end up chained back to Abandon's bed or dead, he didn't know.   Not stopping with the gentle kisses and caresses, hoping to calm Lex's fears, Faal took hold of his hand and placed it palm down against his chest over his heart. "Do you feel that, my little flame?" he asked softly, his hand covering Lex's. "That beats for you and you alone..."   Lex whimpered softly, but didn't move his hand and he leaned against Faal, his head resting against Faal's shoulder and he turned his face inward, kissing Faal's neck, his trembling beginning to fade.   With a wicked chuckle, Faal took Lex's hand and slid it downward. "That is for you and you alone as well.." he said, kissing him a bit harder.   Lex smiled softly behind the kiss, eyes still closed. His fingers stroked him slowly and lightly, his fingers tips brushing him at times.   Faal growled softly, burying his face in Lex's hair, his own hands slipping over the slim hips and pulling him closer. "I love the way you make me feel, Lex... I've lived so long.. and never... you're the only one, Lexine. The only one who's ever mattered... and I barely know you ..."   Lex continued to stroke the length of him, kissing his neck in feather light kisses at the same time, "Then don't you think you'd best get to know me a little better..." He whispered in a seductive tone.   Faal chuckled softly. "Oh, litle flame...Don't worry..I shall. We have the rest of our lives to get to know one another... I'm not going anywhere without you..." he said, closing his eyes. "You're stuck with me, little one.. you've taken my heart...."   Lex wrapped his fingers around him, running his hand slowly up and down, his kisses moving down Faal's neck toward his chest. "Then I suppose I should accept everyone's offer of protection from Abadon..." he whispered.   "At least until I get around to vanquishing him.. yes... that would be a good idea..." he said with a smile as he kissed him again. "I suppose I should get to work on that now before I retire... being immortal would be a definate bonus in that regard..."   "Yus...that would be a help..." Lex said lightly, looking at him through his lashes, his lips turned upward slightly. He kissed him back playfully, giving into being with Faal...and being happy.   Faal chuckled softly and suddenly rolled over, pulling Lex ontop of him, holding on to his hips. "So dear heart.... I'm yours for eternity... any ideas on what to do with me? Aside from allowing me to protect you, love you and pamper you, of course. By the way, I am filthy rich and will take great joy in spoiling you rotten. Did I mention i'm also a prince?"   Lex crossed his arms on Faal's chest and leaned on them, looking down at Faal. "No, I think you forgot to mention the prince part..." He said softly.   "Hmm.. sorry about that.. I only learned that a year ago myself... long twisted sad story about a cruel and wicked king who erases his youngest son from existance.. or tries too..." Faal said, reaching up to tuck a strand of hair behind an ear, letting his fingers trail over Lex's cheek as he did. "I have too much money for myself to spend, even with all the cars, books and houses I keep buying as well as all the charities and buisnesses I either own or invest in... I'll enjoy having some one to spend it on..."   Lex shook his head slightly. "Don't...There isn't anything I want..." He rested his chin on his arms, staring Faal in the eyes. "Other then just you..." He paused a moment, biting his lip. "Um...how is everyone else around here giong to take this..." Faal ran his hands over Lex's chest. "I don't know, nor do I care. They work for me. Except for Clarice, Nathaniel and Sylvia, who work WITH me... either way, I don't answer to them. The only ones whose opinions should mean anything to you anyhow, are Auron and Clarice.. and I suppose Saffron as well..."   Lex snorted softly, closing his eyes slowly, looking all the world like a content cat. "You mean my...family. Forgive me if I'm finding that concept a little hard to deal with." He said softly in a whisper, sounding more exhausted by the idea then anything.   Fal chuckled softly. "Forgiven. I'm familiar with the problem.. It's been a year and even though i've regained some of my memories, I still sometimes have difficulty remembering I have a family..." "Family's not a familiar concept where I'm from." Lex whispered, biting his lip again. Only people I had I could consider...family were Xander...and Evie...Both of whom ...I lost..."   "Well then.. it's a good thing you're not there any more... because now you have Auron and Clarice and Saffron... and me." he said with a smile, pulling Lex donw for a kiss.   "Right, I go from hell, to a father I never knew I had, an apparent step mother, a brother who looks like an idiot...and...you..." Lex frowned slightly, "That's a lot of change in a few hours..."   Faal chuckled. "Don't misjudge your brother... he may act like an idiot at times, but he's not. Far from it. Being the death elemental is a hard thing to deal with.... he's still trying to find a way.. plus he's just getting used to the whole family thing as well... your mother abadoned him when he was a child and shortly after that he was kidnapped. He's only known your father a few months." Lex sighed, letting that go as he reached over and lightly traced the fairy tattoo on Faal's arm. He raised a curious eyebrow. "Rather delicate for a man, isn't it?"   Faal blushed slightly. "Yes... a sort of joke between a friend and myself years ago. We're both elevn fae, but most mortals think of all fae as fairies.... so for some reason i let her talk me into it. She has Tinkerbell.. and I choose this one. Of course, at the time, I didn't know I actaully WAS half faerie..." he chuckled, his own fingers tracing the brand on Lex's shoulder. "I should've prevented this..." Lex turned his head slightly, looking at the brand on his shoulder. "I don't know..makes an interesting conversation piece..." He muttered bitterly. "Not all of Abandon's slaves are branded...only his favorites...as if the collar isn't enough..."   Faal pushed himself up into a sitting position, Lex sliding backwards over his legs a bit as he did so. He brushed bright hair aside and kissed Lex lightly before turning and kissing the branded shoulder. "You know... they do some wonderful cover ups.. You could get a tattoo of anything you want over top..."   Lex shrugged slightly, "Maybe. I'll think about it." He said softly, slipping an arm around Faal's neck, his legs still over Faal's. He started to lean toward him, when a heavy knock came to the apartment door, Lex startled.   Faal groaned softly and he looked towards the door. "I'd better get that, love... no one comes here. It must be serious for them to bother." he sighed and stole a kiss before lifting Lex up gently setting him down again. "Don't go anywhere." he said with a wink, brushing a thumb over Lex's lips. "I won't be long..." he said, then turned and got up, his back to Lex as he moved to grab up the towel.   Lex had crossed his legs under him, resting his hands in his lap, while watching Faal. He blinked in surprise, seeing the full back phoenix tattoo and tilted his head to the side, the fingers of one hand coming to his bottom lip absently.   Saffron grumbled something, staring at the ceiling of the hall, Auron had sent him up here...he didn't want to be up here. And all over his so called little bro.   Faal, in a fit of completely juevenile exasperation at being disturbed, decided he wasn't going to bother pulling on anything more then the towel.. a part of him debated on not even bothering with that, but the thought that one of the ladies might be out there forestalled that notion... Towel held lossely around his waist, he strode through the apartment to the door and yanked it open. "Yes?"   Saffron startled, blinking and raised an eyebrow, looking Faal over. "Auron sent me up to see if you were back yet and to see if you've found... the kid." He said stiffly.   Faal raised an eyebrow. "The kid's name is Lex. And yes i'm back and yes I found him... you may reassure him everything is fine and there won't be anymore need for guards. Now if you'll excuse me..we're a tad busy." he said, being completely cheeky, whiped off the towel while still in the process of closing the door.   "A tab busy with WHAT?!" Saffron snapped in a yell. "Great! Not only is my so called little brother a drag queen, he's gay to boot!" Saffron yelled. Lex heard that from the bed room and looked at his hands, if that's how his...brother wanted to think...fine...he didn't need a brother.   Faal heard the shout and spun yanking the door open again and grabbing Saffron by the throat, slamming him againt the wall. Heedless of the fact that he was standing in the hall, buck naked without even a glamour to cover him, he snarled at him. "Don't you EVER speak of Lex that way again , do you hear me? He is who he is, and he had no choice in that so far... he's finally free of that and I won't have ANYONE destroying him further by putting him down over the choices he does make."   "Taking the guardian job a little too fuckin' serious I think." Saffron hissed, prying Faal's hand off his throat. "I wouldn't threaten a death elemental if I were you, the results may not be to your liking. So what'd he do, seduce you?"   Lex had found one of Faal's shirts and pulled it on at the sound of a body being slammed into a wall, heading for the door, to see Faal and Saffron in the hall.   Faal back handed Saffron across the face. He could feel that familair tickle over his skin of his magic pooling around him. "Keep your mouth shut, Azreal, before someone shuts it for you. Death elemental or not, I've never been afraid of you. And I never will be, I don't care what you can do. You're just a irritating brat who's lashing out at everyone around him for some selfish reason.. in Lex's case, its no doubt out of fear of your father turning his attention away from you to him. Grow up." he said, his eyes already dark and stormy looking. "I'm not above being petty and beating the crap out of a bully who insists on picking on someone I love."   Saffron snorted, wiping the back of his hand over his lip, glaring at Faal, his eyes black. "Love? You've only known him a few hours. And you know NOTHING about me, so you can shove the bullshit up your ass." Saffron's gaze flickered to the door way where Lex had appeared, standing there wide eyed, "And THAT is not a brother of mine." "I'm not a that." Lex replied defensively. "Well you're certianly not a person either..." Saffron replied. Lex tensed up.   A wave of pure power smashed into Saffron and sent him flying back down the hall to slam into the elevator door. Faal stood between Lex and his brother and glared, pointing a finger at Saffron. "I warned you. Leave Lex alone...."   Saffron laughed darkly, getting to his feet, there was a shimmer of shadow at his feet. "Don't worry, he's dead anyway. I can smell it on him..." The shadows grew and Saffron blew Lex a mock kiss before disappearing in the shadows. When they cleared, no one was in the hall. Lex stared at the spot Saffron had been, wide eyed and confused.   Faal took a step towards where Saffron vanished then growled softly under his breath as he turned back to the door and saw Lex standing then. The anger melted off him as he took in the petite redhead, swimming in one of his shirts, staring down the hall. "Lex.. little one..." he said softly and gentle pulled him into his arms. "You should've stayed inside... I..I'm sorry... I take it back...Saffron is an ass. There is no excuse or reason behind it.."   Lex shook his head, finally turning his gaze away from the spot Saffron had been and looked at Faal. "I didn't really expect to have...my family accept me just like that..." He muttered softly, paused, then added. "But...but what did he mean..." He looked up at Faal, obviously confused.   Faal frowned, and kissed his forehead. "I'm not sure, little one.. but rest assured, I'll find out.." There was a sound from down the hall and a voice called out. "For the love of.. put some pants on man!"   Lex started, looking over Faal's shoulder, before blushing darkly. Chaos had just come out of the elevator, along with a blonde headed young woman Lex didn't know yet, the blonde looked a bit scandalized, which only made Lex blush even more, and actually hid his face against Faal's shoulder.   Faal had the sudden urge to ignore the request, but instead wove a glamour over them both. "If you see Auron.. tell him he'll be back down to one son if the elder doesn't stay away." Clarice raised an eyebrow." I mean it Clarice.... after the way he treated Lex.. I could've killed him if he'd said another word... if he'd been a mortal , I just might've."   "What's Saffron said this time?" Sylvie inquired, glancing at the red head in Faal's arms. Lex stayed quiet, leaning against Faal.   Faal scowled as he stroked the hair back off Lex's face, caressing his cheek as he did. "Take the worse thing he's said so far... and triple it. I warned him to knock it off and he chose not too..." he turned to look at Chaos. "Step son to be or not, Clarice.. if he doesn't lay off Lex, i'll kill him... i may not 'mean' to kill him.. but i will mean to hurt him.. and i may get carried away...."   Lex looked absentminded a moment, fingering the ring on his collar, before muttering mostly to himself. "So that's why I never wanted a brother..." Sylvie raised an eyebrow. "Saffron said something THAT mean?"   Faal just looked at Sylvie for a moment then gave a soft snort. "I'm not going to repeat it. Well... I'll definately be having a chat with Auron about it.. I may need to repeat some of it then.. but certainly Lex does NOT need to hear any of it again..." he said. He frowned as he glanced back at the spot they'd last seen Saffron, remembering the last thing he'd said. "Excuse us ladies... there's something I need to do.." he said softly, distracted as he turned and ushered Lex back into the aprtment.   Lex blinked, realzing Faal had ushered him back into the apartment, he dropped his hand from his collar. He bit his lip, then said softly. "You wouldn't really kill him, would you?"   Faal sighed as he closed the door. "I wouldn't mean to do it, Lex.. but he's the death elemental.. I'll do what I have to when it comes down to it." he took Lex gently by the shoulders and moved him over to sit on the couch. "Lex... Tell me everything that happened when you went with Rowen.. It’s important, trust me.."   Lex raised an eyebrow, looking at him. "Nothing happened. We showed up on the roof of the building, and he introduced me to LiVed, who escorted us down to the office and then introduced Meeks."   "How much physical contact did you have with either of the men...?" he asked, calling on his magic, letting the faint rainbow shimmer surround Lex.   Lex rubbed his nose, which scrunched up after a moment, trying to think. "Rowen touched my shoulder when he was leaving the room." He muttered.   Faal frowned, his fingers reaching out through the light to gently touch the brand. "This one?" he asked softly, the color draining from his face as he let the magic disapate.   "Um...yus." Lex answered with a slight nod. "Why?" He paused, looking wide eyed.   Faal closed his eyes and sat down, missing the couch completely and winding up on the floor at Lex's feet. "I should've checked...I should've known it was too easy getting you away.. I DID know..." he muttered softly, resting his head in his hands as he tried to think of what to do.   Lex turned slightly on the couch, "Would you please mind telling WHAT is it now?" He asked, his head titled to the side, watching Faal. "I perfer not being left in the dark..."   Faal looked up and let his hands drop. "Lex.. my little one... he put a spell on you ... a curse... it's killing you as we speak." he said.   Lex stared at him a long moment, slightly wide eyd before saying calmly. "Well, that certianly puts a damper on things.."   Faal stared at Lex for a moment then started to laugh. He pulled himself to his feet and then grabbed Lex, pulling him off the couch and into his arms. " 'Put's a damper on things'..." he said softly, smiling sadly."Don't worry, my little flame...I'll fix this...I'm not going to let you die..." he said.   "Yus, well it certianly keeps things moving along, which is good, because I don't like things to be dull." Lex replied, chewing on his bottom lip with a worried expression.   Faal grabbed Lex's chin gently and tilted his face upward. "I mean it ,Lex..Trust me, love.. I'll fix this..." he said softly as he bent down to kiss him.   "Right...well I certianly hope you think of something..." Lex said dryly, pulling back a bit to give him a serious look. "I rather like it here, be a shame to cut that short."   Faal sighed, resting his chin ontop of Lex's head, his arms wrapped securely around him. "I don't know if I can break it myself.. highly doubt it... I might be able to do something to it.... slow it down I suppose..." he said softly, mostly talking to himself. "I suppose i could try... as for breaking it...I'll talk to Nathaniel... see what he can tell me..."   Lex sighed, raising his hands to rub his eyes. Most of him wanted to trust Faal on this, a part of him told him not to be stupid. He wondered if he'd have any chance of getting out of the building and finding Rowen.   "Damn Ravenscourt.. what could he possibly... I suppose he could've been Abadon's second assasin .. the one sent after you.... but that's a rather round about way of getting the job done..." he said, then suddenly turned, the glamour having vanished at some point, and headed for the bed room, one arm still wrapped around Lex. "Get dressed, dear heart.... we have some people to go see... and no time to waste.."   "Right..." Lex muttered, lost in his own thoughts for a moment, but grabbed his clothes, he pulled on his knickers and pants and began searching for his sandals.   Faal grabbed the phone off the nightstand and dialed, resting the phone against his shoulder as he raided the dresser and closet. He spoke briefly, explaining the situation as he got dressed, one eye always one Lex. When he hung up, he pulled on his shirt and leaving it open went to Lex, pulling him into a deep hungry kiss.   Lex dropped one sandal being caught off guard by the kiss, and was trying to put the other one on at the same time as well as kiss Faal back.   Faal pulled back and looked down at Lex. "Do you trust me, Lexine?" he asked, his voice serious. "Do you trust in me to not hurt you.... do you trust in my loving you...?"   Lex managed to get the one sandal on and looked up at him, slightly wide eyed. Now came the moment of truth. He swallowed He considered the true meaning of trust. He didnt' think he'd ever trusted anyone, except Evie...and maybe Xander once. He hadn't had a reason to trust anyone, everyone used him. "I don't know know what real trust is." Lex replied softly. "I don't even know what love really is"   Faal closed his eyes for a moment. "Lex... I know you don't understand.. but it's important that ..." he sighed, loking back donw into his eyes. "Alright.. be absolutely truthful with me.... even if you think it might hurt.. I NEED to know.. okay?" he asked.   Lex was quiet a moment, he lowered his eyes, looking at the sandal laying at his feet and manuvered it around with his toes, slipping it on as he thought.   "Lex... do you feel as if you could trust me.. or that you want to, at least?" he asked softly, watching him carefully. "Do you want to be with me, little one?"   Managing to get the sandal on, Lex turned his eyes upward to look at Faal. "Yes Faal..." Lex answered so softly he was almost unheard. He also realized it was the first time he'd said his name...   Faal smiled softly and stroked his finger over Lex's cheek. "Thank you. We'd better sit down for this..." he said, taking Lex's hand and pulling him back down to the foot of the bed. He sat facing him for a moment then sighed, as if frustrated. "Here..." he said and patted his lap. "Come sit on my lap.. any way you like is fine.. facing me, with your back to me... doesn't matter.. I just need you close.."   Lex bit his lip, hesitating a moment, he'd been honest, if he could trust anyone, it was Faal.   With a sigh, he crawled onto Faal's lap, facing him, his legs on either side of Faal's. Faal smiled softly again, caressing one cheek before stealing a kiss. He placed a hand on the back of his head, guiding him to lay his head against his chest. "Wrap your arms around me Lex.... hold me tight..." he whispered, wrapping his own arms around him.   Lex breathed in the scent of Faal's colonge deeply, comforteringly, laying his head on Faal's chest, slipping his arms around his neck, clinging to him. He didn't ask anything, he didn't say anything, just did what Faal told him to.   Faal pillowed his cheek against Lex's head, enjoying the feel of him in his arms like this for a moment before he began to call his magic to him again. This time he let it build as much as he could as he considered the best way to go about what he wanted to do... "Don't be afraid, little one..." he whispered.   Lex closed his eyes, trembling slightly, aware of the magic building. "I'm not afraid..." He muttered, although that was a complete lie.   Faal let it go at that, focusing on pulling the magic close around them as he focused on what he wanted, the elven side of him trying to work it into a spell while the faerie side just wanted... he wasn't sure which did it, but he felt when it snapped into place. He sighed sadly, feeling what he'd done.. a part of him hoping it hadn't been a mistake, but knowing he'd have done it anyhow to save Lex. "You can get up now, litle one...I'm finished... I've bought us some time at least..."   Lex pulled back some, looking at him, feeling a little light headed. "What did you do?" He asked softly, curious more then anything. He realized he'd never met any fae before. You didn't have fae in hell...   Faal gave another soft,slightly sad smile as he brushed the backs of his fingers over Lex's cheek. "A binding of a sort... it'll make you stronger... the curse is meant to drain your energy and life force away... i'll be.. boosting yours so it can't happen as fast as it would otherwise." he let the top of one finger brush over one of the tear drop tattoos.   Lex tilted his head to the side, his arms were still around Faal's neck, and he was still sitting on his lap. "What do you mean, you'll be boosting mine?" He asked softly, slightly wided eyed.   "Trust me, little one." he said softly. "I'll take care of you. I'm not going to let you die. You're far too important to me...."   Lex bit his lip, looking down ward a moment. "As long as...it doesn't...hurt you..." he muttered softly, looking back up at him.   "You mean more to me then anything, Lex.... I know that sounds insane considering i just met you .. but it's true. I'd glady die for you, Lex.. and being your guardian, means one day I probably will.... but it'll be worth it." he said, his voice soft but serious. "Don't worry about me or my choices."   Lex drew back more, looking slightly hurt. "What about me?" He asked in a whisper. "What if I don't want you to die for me...? It'd be awfully terrible if I gave you my heart, only to loose you, now wouldn't it? Or do my choices not count?" He inquired, his tone slipping slightly cold. "Am I still just a possession?"   "Lexi... oh my sweet Lexi..." he said, slipping both hands over Lex's cheeks and into his hair. "I want to be with you forever, little one... don't worry.. I won't be throwing my life away for nothing... " he said, resting his forehead against his, his fingers slipping down to cradle the back of Lex's neck. He looked up, eyeing the collar. "I'll see to getting rid of this as well..."   "You should know something Faal...I don't know what love is...or trust...every instinct I have is telling me, I'm doing something very stupid, and that I'm just going to end up hurt because of it...But I'm seriously hoping thats not the case...because I want to trust you...I want to love you..." Lex said softly, his tone softened. Faal smiled a small sad smile and kissed his forehead. "Just stay with me, little one. Whatever happens... don't leave me.. you're a part of me now...I need you." he looked away and patted Lex's hip. "Come on now... time to get moving."   Lex sighed, slipping off his lap, he had a feeling he'd made a disaster of trying to explain that. He knew he wanted to be with him. he didn't know if he loved him...really loved him.   Faal stood and wrapped and arm around him from behind, holding him against him. "We'll get through this together, Lex. It's the only way we can..." he said and kissed the side of his head before opening a rift. "Come on... I'll introduce you to some of my family... just be warned... they can be a tad... 'fun-loving'..." he finished in a chuckle   "Fun loving? That's a scary concept." Lex replied softly, his tone absent, his mind else where. He was wondering if he really could love and trust Faal. He certianly felt something for him, he hadn't ever felt for anyone else.   Faal gave a soft laugh, and after a moment, turned Lex to face him. "Lex... this rift leads to my grandfathers court within Ter Nah Nog. You have fae blood, which means.. well... Ter Nah Nog has a way of welcoming and holding its own. You may not want to leave again.. but that wouldn't really be much of a hardship I suppose.. you have nothing really to hold you here to this realm... and i'll stay with you wherever you wish...."   "You're right, I don't have anything here...but thank you for...the warning..."Lex said softly, looking at him. He didn't know he had fae blood, but it didn't really surprise him either. He glanced at the rift.   Faal gave a chuckle and suddenly scooped Lex into his arms. "Then why are we still here?" he asked with a soft smirk and stepped through. , It was a small study, book cases lining the walls and crammed with books. The faerie crown prince was sitting on a table in the middle, legs crossed, a stack of books to either side of him, a large tome opened in his lap.   Correction, he was floating at least an inch above the table. He glanced up as the rift opened and Faal stepped out with Lex. "Ah, the prodigal son returns." Gillorn remarked. Faal chuckled softly. "Hello uncle. I'd like you meet Lexine. Lex, this is my uncle, Gillorn." he set Lex on his feet, keeping his arm wrapped around him. "Uncle... is grandfather busy? We need his help..." Gillorn closed his book slowly. "Is he ever to busy for his favorite grandson?" He asked with a slight smirk, before turning his eyes on Lex, his eyebrow shot up as he looked the red head over. "What are you doing with the daughter of the seal?" He asked Faal.   "Guarding her.. him.. like the Guardian is supposed to." he answered, with a smirk. "And it looks like I need grandfather's help.. otherwise i shall have a very short run..."   Lex kept quiet, he felt...rather strange, and a pull towards the seal that wasn't going away.   Gillorn unfolded his legs, sitting his book to the side and climbed off the table "Might I make the suggestion that while you're here...in Ter Nah Nog, you get...er...Lexine to the Seal...which I believe is well aware of...Lexine being here.." Gillorn said with a rather hesitatant tone. But he started for a nearby door, pausing for them to follow.   "Yes.. there are a few things that need to be done while we're here....several birds with one stone, so to speak.." he said, ushering Lex after Gillorn. When he realized that the red head was in somewhat of a daze, he scooped him back into his arms and carried him.   Gillorn led them through a maze of small private halls, "Well needless to say it would be very wise to go to the seal now that you're in Ter Nah Nog...should have been top priority..." He stopped, looking back at the two of them, especially Lex who blinked slightly wide eyed. "That wont last long..." Gillorn said finally, turning back to the door he'd stopped before and rapping lightly on it. A moment later it was opened by Oberon, who had a cigar in hand. "Some one t' see you, da." Gillorn said nodding over his shoulder.   Faal grinned sheepishly at Oberon. "Hi Grandad... this is Lexine... we need your help. I promise next time I visit...it will be strictly pleasure.."   "That's what they all say..." Gillorn muttered with a smirk. Oberon raised an eyebrow, looking Lexine over, noting the collar. "And what can I do to help?" He asked, opening the door more and gesturing for them to enter his personal study. Gillorn followed them in. "A couple things, I'm hoping...." Faal said as he entered. Lex seemed to be miles away and not even hearing them. "As you know, Lexine is the Daughter of the Seal...I'm his guardian. He got hit by a death curse... I can't lift it and without the witch who cast it there's not much we can do... but... I bound myself to him.. to help slow it. I don't suppose you know a way to break the curse...?"   Oberon frowned slightly. "Curse breaking is a difficult thing...especially with out the witch who cast it..." Gillorn was watching Lex, and frowned. "Uh...da...correct me if I'm wrong...but I thought the daughter of the seal could only BE a daughter...Surely the Seal...I mean..." Gillorn raised an eyebrow, "Or is the Seal already fixing that..." He added evasively. Orebon smiled with out humor, but didn't really reply to that, so Gillorn knew the answer already.   Faal sighed rolling his eyes at Gillorn. "Another problem? Like we don't have enough to get through at the moment.. add it to the stack please.." he said with a smirk then turned to his grandfather. "Well... can you at least do something about this infernal collar, please? I know it's one of yours... "   "That I can take care of." Oberon said with a nod, moving over to a bell cord and pulling it. Gillorn snorted, looking from Lex to Faal. "Do you know NOTHING about the Seal?" He asked.   Faal sighed and gave his uncle a look. "Why would I? If you care to remember, I left Ter Nah Nog several centuries ago and have tended to avoid this sort of thing. I've spent more time with you here in the past year then I have in my father's court since I left. That, plus no one bothered to mention I was the damned Guardian.."   Oberon spoke to a servant softly a moment, before the servent left to do his kings bidding. Gillorn snickered, planting himself on a table near by. "As I pointed out to da...The Seal...can't have a boy as it's...guardian...I'm surprised it's even happened..." He eyed Lex. "The seal will no doubt...and by the looks of things already is, changing that..." Gillorn finished in a sing song tone. The servent returned with Oberon's 'tools' and he removed an odd looking key from the case.   Faal snorted softly, already aware of what was happening to the boy in his arms. "I know, uncle...sorry to spoil your fun and all.. but as I mentioned... I bound myself to him.... he's a part of me." "Hmm...wonder why past guardians haven't been as attentive as you..." Gillorn muttered absently, with a smirk. Oberon moved over with the key and reached over to move the collar around to the lock, when Lex seemed to come to enough to squeak and draw back with fear.   Faal cuddled him closer. "Shhh, litle one. it's alright.. this is my grandfather, Oberon.. he's going to remove your collar, love... its alright..." he said soothingly. "Trust me, little flame.... it's alright..."   Oberon placed a gentle hand on Lex's forehead a moment, before taking the collar and moving it around to the lock, even when Lex whimpered. The key slid into the lock and turned and Lex cried out, struggling in Faal's arms, feeling Abadon's rage. Oberon seemed unperturbed, though Gillorn shifted a bit uncomfortably.   "Lexine.."Faal said softly. "Calm down love...I have you .. I won't let him hurt you again... you're not his anymore.." he said, trying to shove away the dark presence that seemed to pour into him through Lex. "I'm here Lex... He can't hurt you...."   Lex whimpered plantively as Oberon removed the lock and began undoing the collar. Abadon seemed extremely enraged that the collar was being removed, and that it was Oberon who was removing it. And the more the collar came off, the more the seal could take over. Gillorn noticed Lex's hair changing.   Faal did his best to force Abadon's presecne from both his mind as well as Lex's, feeling a sensation like a warm comforting blanket settle over them...   Oberon undid the collar completely, sliding it from Lex's neck, while Lex stared up at him with wide absinthe green eyes, the feeling of Abadon fading once the collar was completely off. Oberon stepped back. "And that was one of the more powerful collars..." He remarked.   Gillorn hopped off his table. "Anything else we can do for you? I might be able to track down your witch...but I rather suggest you get Lexine to the Seal now. Mind you, its with n the summer solistice so you should be able to go with...him..."   Faal smiled softly, his mind reeling slightly from having forced Abadon out... "Yes.. consider us on our way there..." he turned to Oberon. "Thank you... I doubt i'll ever be able to repay you for that... and no doubt you think of it as nothing..."   Oberon chuckled. "Of course. You are my grandson after all."   "Know the way?" Gillorn asked seriously, as Lex whimpered. Faal turned a look on his uncle. "No, but I don't think that'll be a problem... it's calling us.. Thank you both... we'll be back later when we have time to relax a bit and Lex has... adjusted to things..."   "Indeed." Gillorn said with a slight smirk. Oberon chuckled, but opened a rift, then gestured. "That'll come out in the clearing, all that has to be done is to step through the pillars that are standing." He said.   Faal smiled softly and nodded as he turned and stepped through the rift. The site of the clearing and the pillars made his heart squeeze painfully. He felt the rift shift closed behind him as he stood for a moment. "This is it, Lex. The Seal.... your heritage... your inheritance..." he said softly and after a moment started to walk towards the pillars.   Lex stared at the pillars, knowing what was on the other side, he felt the call so strongly he thought he couldn't take it anymore, But it was the fact he knew it was changing him that scared him. "I...I can't..." he whimpered.   "It's alright, Lex...I'm here with you.. you don't hav to do this alone..." he said softly, kissing him softly. "You can Lex... you have to.. its who you are... but I'm here with you, little one..."   Lex looked at him, with a slightly lost look. "I'm not going to be the same Lex..." He whispered. "I can't...it's too much to take..." He was aware they were right at the pillars now, one more step would put them in the seal's domain.   "Lex... who are you now? You're already a different Lex from the one that came after Xander... were you happy the way you were? Are you happy now?" Faal asked, stopping at the threshold. "This is your chance to start fresh, little one.. wipe the slate clean and start fresh..."   Lex squirmed, until he slid out of Faal's arms right there on the threshold. He looked up at him. "Are you still going to want me, after I go through there?" He asked in a whisper, his tone slightly cold and defensive. And he didn't wait for Faal's answer, he took a step back, turning into the Seal's domain, which was enough. Lex stumbled and fell to the tiled seal, aware she wasn't a he anymore.   Faal watched Lex slip over the threshold and said softly. "Of course I will, little one.. the question is.. will you still want me?" he looked after him for a moment, feeling a heaviness settle over him and suddenly wondered if he'd made a grave mistake in binding himself to the red head... with a sigh he stepped through after him.   Lex half sat there, half lay there on the tile, looking around. There was a swirl of power in the air, both good and bad, life and death. She looked up at the arch way over head, with its crumbling stone. A path led off the side, down a bit, where a light source was seen and the sound of water running. Faal stood just inside and glanced around, knowing he was seeing something few people ever did.. and fewer men. He glanced down at Lex, sprawled at his feet and bent down to offer his hand. "Are you alright, little one? No bruises I trust?" He smiled softly when Lex looked up at him. "I warned you about Ter Nah Nog... I would've warned you about the Seal's tendencies as well.. but I wasn't aware of them... you look stunning, by the way..."   "Stunning?!" Lex squeaked, looking up at him wide eyed. "I'm...I'm...a GIRL!" She cried, but she took his hand, allowing him to pull her trembling to her feet. "This...is too much..." She whimpered. Faal smiled sadly. "You're beautiful, Lex... either way. I'm sorry if this is hard for you.. I'm sure you'll adjust quickly..." he said awkwardly, not wanting to let go of her hand. "Lexine..." he said, slipping his free hand around her waist. "I'm sorry if I upset you... I didn't mean to..."   Lex shook her head furiously, still trembling, but found herself leaning against him...for comfort. There was no sound in the void, other then the sound of trickling water at the waterfall and pool. She shivered at the feel of power in the air.   Faal wrapped both arms around her, feeling his heart skip at the sudden closeness. He wasn't sure if it was her closeness that allowed him to sense the Seal's power so intently, or whether anyone would have... he frowned slightly remembering how even when Lex had left him outside the Seal he could still feel the pull from it. Perhaps his binding had something to do with it. With a sigh he looked up at the arch above him. His feelings for Lex were even stronger here... as if the Seal amplfied his desire... which might just be possible comsidering the only men who entered the Seal , did so to court the Daughter....   Lex raised her eyes from looking around, to look up at Faal, her eyes slightly wide, her hands were resting on his chest. She had a rush of feelings coursing through her and everything just seemed to be moving fast.   Faal swallowed hard as he looked down into absinthe green eyes that seemed even more luminous then before. He could feel the Seal almost encouraging him, pushing him.. "Lexi..." he whispered softly, reaching one hand up to caress her cheek, marvelling at how beautiful she was. He leaned down and caught her lips in a kiss.   Lex gasped behind the kiss in surprise, her hands still on his chest. And yet she fell into the kiss which seemed even more wonderful, better then when he'd kissed her before. As he kissed her, she could feel an upsurge in power around the Seal, as if it it were thriving on the contact between them.   Faal gave a soft moan and broke the kiss, pushing her away slightly. "Lexi..." he said softly, his face flushed. "I suggest we leave... before I throw you down and take you right here... the Seal.. wants us..." he shook his head gently. "I want you, Lex.. but.. I want it to be the right time... not when we're being pushed to it..."   Lex sighed softly, lowering her eyes, but pulled away from him slowly. "Give me a few minutes..." She said softly, turning from him and heading down the small path to the side. She needed a few minutes to collect herself. She thought she could almost feel the Seal's disappointment and wondered if it was above pushing harder.   Faal closed his eyes and leaned back against the pillar. "Don't be long, Lexi.. I don't know long I can fight it... I think... I think my binding to you has made me a bit more susceptable to the Seal's power..." he heard her move off along the path and let himself slide down to sit on the tiles, his knees drawn up before him.   She moved about the path absently, she realized her clothes were slightly bigger on her and decided she must have shrunk as well as changed. It wasn't that she physically felt different, she just knew she was. She stopped at the small pool and pulled her shirt front open, looking down and groaned. With a sigh she sat down on the edge of the pool, within sight of the seal and the pillars, she could some what see her reflection in the pool and wasn't sure what to make of it.   He wasn't sure how long he sat there before he was aware of it, but there was a whispering in his mind. Not quite a voice.. not quite words.. but still... he listened to the whispering for a moment then looked up as it bade him, his gaze finding Lex sitting by the pool. He groaned softly, seeing her there, wanting her.. his memories of their time together back at his apartment were pale shadows of what he felt now, and only served to make his desire grow. "Oh, sweet Terra.. please..." he whispered... "Lexine..."   Lex sat by the pool gazing thoughtfully at the shimmering reflection. She reached down running her fingertips over the water, then she reached up with the same hand and touched the tattoos under her eyes. She thought she felt being watched and turned her head slightly, looking up the path at the pillars to see Faal watching her. She shivered despite herself, not out of fear, but sudden want.   Faal's heart hit him triple time as Lexine turned to look up at him and he made contact with those eyes... then his eyes dropped a bit and he saw the open shirt. He wasn't even aware of standing up and walking to her, but suddenly he was pulling her to her feet and kissing her hungrily.   Lex didn't hesitate, she wrapped her arms around his neck, kissing him back deeply and wanting, desperete not to let him go, or to have him let go of her. She forgot about everything else going on, except for the fact that he was kissing her so passionately.   Faal was only partially aware of what he was doing as he kissed her, his hands pushing off her shirt, baring her skin to his hands and mouth. "Oh Lexine... my little flame.." he said softly, completely intoxicated by her.   Lex slid one hand up, her fingers tangling gently in his hair, as she felt her shirt fall off her shoulders, she pressed against him, whimpering softly, "Faal..." Part of her mind mused that this was definitely not to place to be doing this, but she didn't think she could stop him...or wanted him to stop.   Faal found himself holding her up with one hand while the other undid her pants, pushing them down. Part of him was crying out for him to stop but he didn't seem to be able to. All he could do was kiss her harder, his hunger for her growing even more. Lex inhaled sharply behind the kisses, feeling him push down her pants, this was going way TOO fast for her. She squirmed slightly with a whimper that was this time more on the frightened side. Faal tried to stop. He could almost taste her sudden fear, but his body refused to obey him as he lowered her to the ground, his hands running over her new curves. Lex whimpered again, squirming more, but as much as she wanted to stop him, she couldn't. It seemed the Seal didn't want it to stop. She arched slightly against him with a whimpered moan, her eyes closing. "Faal, please..." She moaned in a whisper. Faal made a plaintive sound as he heard Lexine pleading, trying to get control of himself, but all he could think of was how incredible her kisses tasted and how she made him feel. He felt a searing heat as his bare skin met hers and only thenrealised he'd managed to remove most of his own clothing. Lex struggled, trying to find some way to get a clear head through this, to get him to stop. She couldn't do this right now, even though she found her body betraying her, arching more against him. "Faal...I can't..." she whimpered trying despertly again. Faal moaned softly, feeling her squirm against him. His heart squeezed tightly hearing her begging him to stop, and he tried harder to push himself away from her. He managed to lift his head from where he'd been kissing his way along her stomach. "Lexi... I'm sorry.." he said breathlessly and made the mistake of looking into her eyes. Lex gasped, part of her some how knew there was nothing for her and resigned herself. She whimpered plantively, as her body continued to betray her, arching upward a bit more, she closed her eyes with a lost sounding moan. Faal felt his heart squeeze tightly at her plaintive moan, but her body arching against his seemed to be the signal his own was waiting for. Kissing her hungrily, he parted her thighs and slipped between her legs, the heat of her pressing against him made him moan into the the kiss. "Lexi... I can't... forgive me.. please.." he whispered softly, his eyes growing wet as he gave her one last kiss before plunging inside her. Lex cried out, her hands on his shoulders, she arched enough to bring her back off the ground, her hips against his as she was momentarily blinded by the pain of losing her virginty in such a manner. She found her head against his shoulder, buring her face in his neck and the hair that spilled down, the tears rolling down her cheeks as she shut her eyes. Faal felt torn between his horror over what he was doing, and the incredible joy over being inside her. He felt her clinging to him and knew she was crying. The pain that lanced through him at the knowledge of how deeply he was hurting her should've been enough to send him reeling away from her, but instead his body continued as if seperate from his mind and its silent commands. Lex clung to him, her own body still moving with his, but her eyes were still squeezed shut against the onslaught of tears prickling her eyes behind the lids. Part of her was terrified, having seemingly only ended up right back where she'd started so to say, anther part of her was caught up in the feelings he was getting out her body. And all the while she could feel a stronger surge of power around them. Unable to stop himself and not knowing what was behing this lack of control, whether it was the Seal or the binding... or just his inexplicably love for her that drove him. His pace quickened as his breathing grew more laboured, and his only clear thought before he came was that he hoped she could forgive him... Lex cried out again, feeling her body tightening around him, her fingers dug into his shoulders as she clung to him. The tears came faster now as she kept her face buried against his neck and she tried to make clear the emotions spinning in her head, she wondered where this left them now, was she just his possession after all? He cried out as he came, the feeling more incredible then he could ever remember before, but at the same time, his body was suddenly his own again and he crumbled, pulling her into his arms as he began to sob, his face buried in her hair, he cried, telling her how sorry he was and begging her forgiveness over and over. Lex became quiet, her own tears almost stopping, she felt...numb. She realized she hadn't felt that way in a very long time. Not since Xander had done the same to her. She could felt the Seal's power humming around them now, almost as if content and hated it. She could hear Faal's apologies and begging, and yet didn't pull away from him. There was a part of her that knew she didn't hate him, but was yet still terrified, she didn't know what to do now. He had no idea how long he lay there holding her, but eventually the tears stopped and he just held her. "Lex...." he finally managed to say, his voice hoarse from crying. "I tried to stop... I swear... I never meant...." Lex shook her head, one hand reaching up to touch his lips, silencing him. She turned her head slightly, looking up at him, her eyes red from crying so much, now she just looked incredibly exhausted, the curse draining her out."Whats done is done..." She breathed, closing her eyes, still breathing deeply. Faal felt a surge of hope flow through him at her gentle words, and pulled her closer against him, cradling her in his arms. He could feel the curse pulling at them both, and knew despite his own strength going to her, she was feeling its effects. He closed his eyes and concentrated on the binding, pulling the curse closer to himself as he pushed his strength to her. She curled against him, still feeling numb to the whole incident, a part of her mind kept screaming however, that he'd just raped her and there for was no better then Abadon. But her body didn't really want to move away from him, half from feeling so exhausted and weak, half from the feeling of securty.. She kept her eyes closed, breathing deeply. "I wanna leave..." She whispered. Faal sighed softly at her words and nodded. "Of course... I'm sorry.. I never should have come in after you... I know it won't mean much right now, Lex... but I swear.. I'll never forgive myself for this.. and it will NEVER happen again.. I swear to you." he said as he sat up, gently helping her up as well, but keeping his arms around her. Lex managed to pull on the little too big pants and yank the shirt back up her arms. She heard herself say numbly. "It's not the first time it's happened to me...probably wont be the last." She wiped the back of her hand over her cheeks, unable to look at Faal, her fingers went to her throat, and she startled slightly, remembering the collar was gone. "I just...want to go..." She trialed off, realzing she couldn't even say home. Faal reached out, starting to turn her to face him but stopped, merely caressing her cheek instead. "No, Lexine.. it's not alright. And it will NEVER happen to you again.. by anyone..." he reluctantly pulled back and drew him pants on, trying not too look at her and the broken expression on her face as he dressed. "I'll take you home, Lexine... " he added softly. She looked up, blinking in confussion. "Home?" She whispered. She sat there for a long moment, looking up at him. By rights, she should refuse him, anything to do with him, she was supposed to be free now, didn't that give her a choice to hate him... "I'm sorry... I just meant... " he sighed as he did up hid shirt. "My apartment.. although it's yours as well if you still care to .... of course, there are still the guest rooms..." She climbed to her feet, weaving as she stood, feeling light headed. But she continued to look at him. She couldn't hate him. And that's what confused her so much. He reached out to steady her, his hands slipping easily around her waist and pulling her closer. " I love you, Lex.. what I did was beyond horrible.. beyond forgiveness, even... and although I hope and pray you can forgive anyhow, because I have no life without you, little one... please... at least still stay with me.. the apartment is yours as well... you can have the second room as your own and I swear I won't... you'll be safe from me, Lex. We have a large armorery if you wish to protect yourself..." She closed her eyes, more to stop the dizziness as not to look at him."No..." She moaned. "Please...I'm just confussed..." She whispered. "I should be mad at you...even hate you....yet I can't... and...and I even forgive you..." She opened her eyes finally, looking up at him. Faal caught a sob at her words and suddenly pulled her close, burying his face against her hair. "Oh Lexi... I swear to you .. I'll make it up to you... anything you want.. ever.. just say and its yours.. no matter what.. jewels, cars, houses.. its yours... I'll die for you, Lexine.. or kill for you if you wish..." "Just take me home right now..." Lex whispered, clinging to him. If she felt mad at anything, it was the Seal and she didn't think she could stand to be another moment in this place. "Please Faal...I can't...I can't be here any longer..." Faal swallowed and nodded, sweeping her off her feet and into his arms, knowing by the pull he was feeling on his own strength that the curse was still progresing faster then he'd like. As he carried her quickly up to the seal and out to the clearing, he redoubled his efforts to direct the curse from her to himself. He knew he was a bit more successful this time as he felt the sudden pull intensify. He knew it was only temporay and would still drain her, but with him in the way it would take a good deal longer, draining him completely before turning on her full strength... Lex had fallen silent, turning herself enough to bury her face against his shoulder, half hoping to catch a catnap while he carried her, half thinking. She knew there was something she had to do, but it was just a matter of getting away from Faal long enough to do it... Faal opened a rift as soon as he was out of the clearing, stepping straight through into the apartment and carried her to the bedroom, stopping in the hall between the two rooms. "Would you perfer your own room, little one?" She shook her head slightly. "It doesn't matter..." She muttered, her tone was still quite numb. She couldn't feel anything other then confussion and fatigue. She almost wished she could feel anger against something. Faal hesitated then carried her through the open door into his room, setting her on the bed. He looked at her at her rumpled and too big clothing. "I'll call down to Sylvie and see if she has something for you to wear for now... she's the closest to your size... if you'll be alright for a bit, I need to go talk to your father and Nathaniel about what we can do to break the curse..." Lex nodded slightly. "I'll be fine." She said in a whisper. It would certianly give her a chance to do what she needed to do, provided it didn't take to long. He hestitated by the side of the bed. "Would you like something to wear now? Or would you perfer to just pull on one of my shirts again and climb into bed for now.... I can have Sylvie bring something later...." he asked. "Later would be fine." She answered, sitting in the middle of the bed, and closed her eyes for a moment, summoning what she had left of her energy, for what she intended to do. Faal nodded, then reached out and brushed the side of her face. "I'm doing what I can to divert the curses effects... you should feel a bit stronger soon. It'll still wear on you, but not as fast... as long as you take it easy..." he suddenly leaned in and kissed her gently. "Get some rest, sweetheart...I'll be back as soon as I can..." She didn't completely pull away from the kiss, but turned her head a bit before he'd truly finished kissing her. "Thank you...I will." She whispered, not looking at him. Her stomach twisted slightly, knowing what she was planning on doing was rather stupid and foolish but she had to do it anyway. If just to get SOME kind of revenge on Rowen... Faal nodded and gave a short sad smile that failed almost before it started. "Alright... if you need me, just hit number one on the speed dial and tell them to page me..." he said as he backed out of the room and closed the door softly behind him. He slipped into the bathroom and quickly did his best to straighten up before heading off in search of the others.   Lex waited until she heard the main apartment door closing, before getting off the bed. She found her way to the bathroom and cleaned up some, thenn took a deep breath, looking at her reflection in the mirror. The fae blood had definitely made her more feminine and beautiful and she frowned. But she knew either way, Rowen would know her. Taking another breath, she opened a shadow portal

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  Skye, Ruex, Sage, Washu & Miss Frost .
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