Hearts of Darkness
Part II

by

Kathy H. , Ldynwaitin, Linda & Alllie

Previously on Spike: Soul Survivor, Hearts of Darkness Part 1:

After accepting Dracula's personal invitation to visit Transylvania, the Big B.A.D.S. find themselves in the small town of Bistritz. Wolfram and Hart agents, Mike and Lia are not far behind, with strict orders from Sirk to keep an eye on Spike.

Even though Dracula does not know that his golden goblet is the very artifact the team has to secure, everyone has mixed feelings about coming face to face with the infamous count.

Xander has nightmares about falling under Dracula's thrall again.

Mena and Haley are apprehensive and yet attracted to Dracula's sinister charm.

Illyria is eager to challenge this legendary warrior.

Spike? Well...Spike just hopes to get his eleven quid back!

He does however remind his team for the millionth time that 'the Poncey Prince of Darkness' is highly overrated but still a sneaky bastard and therefore not to be trusted. Their objective is to get the artifact and then get out of town! ASAP!

Dracula, in the meantime has problems of his own.

Elizabeth Bathory is proving to be less than the perfect consort. She is willful, disobedient and her reckless bloodlust could seriously jeopardize the harmonious relationship the count has with the residents of the local villages.

Not only that, Dracula's right hand man, Victor, is rapidly becoming disillusioned with his service to his master. Although he keeps his dissent private he is definitely not pleased with Dracula's fascination for Spike!

Realizing that he must step up his grand plans for a new world order, Dracula goes to Bistritz to welcome Spike and his team. Promising to help them with their search for the artifact, he offers them all lodging at his castle for the duration of their trip.

The team politely declines, but Spike gives into his curiosity and 'macho' bravado and boldly accepts the offer. Despite his friend's worried protests, Spike assures them he will be fine and explains that this will give him the chance to snoop around and locate the goblet.

With no thought of a 'back up' plan and no regard for his own advice, our hero heads off with Dracula to his castle. Once they arrive however, Spike finds himself in for a night of surprises and a turn of events that will put him and his team in mortal danger!!!!

Now...on with Hearts of Darkness Part 2:

~~~~~~~~

It took Spike a few moments to regain his composure, let alone his voice. He had been staring at the couple in stunned silence ever since Dracula had introduced his special guest. The woman was incredibly beautiful, but underneath her perfect features Spike sensed cold indifference, even haughty contempt. That little voice at the back of his brain had been nagging him ever since he heard her name. For some reason he thought he recognized it or should know who she was, but at the moment he couldn't place her.

by nmcil

Remembering his manners, Spike stepped forward and slapped Dracula good-naturedly on the shoulder. "Drac, you sly dog! Congratulations old man, you really pulled a fast one on me," he joked. "If I had known you were getting married I'd have sent a card, or brought a wedding present. You know, one of those sensible but boring gifts that you usually end up getting ten of."

The count laughed heartily at Spike's humor. "I admit that our union was somewhat sudden, but I have actually had my eye on Elizabeth for several years now."

Dracula turned to gaze upon his bride affectionately, but Spike noticed that Elizabeth's smile for her husband seemed forced and in no way returned the obvious adoration he had shown for her.

Hmmmm...might too early for trouble in Paradise? he wondered, but continued to joke cheerfully. "So...not exactly a shotgun wedding, heh? Can't say I'd blame you though for being so anxious to tie the knot, what with a woman as beautiful as the countess, here."

Dracula grinned rakishly at Spike's enthusiastic assessment of his new bride. "Elizabeth, my dear, may I present Spike, formerly known as William the Bloody, one of the most infamous vampires the world has ever known."

As Spike approached the countess, she scrutinized him carefully, obviously intrigued, then offered her hand for him to kiss. For a moment he was a bit unnerved by the gesture, but it awakened the manners of the Victorian gentleman that still lived within him. Spike brushed his lips to her hand and bowed gallantly. "Countess, I am honored," he replied.

When Elizabeth finally withdrew her hand, Spike looked up to see her still staring intently at him. "Ahhhh yes...Spike," she purred. "You are the one I have been hearing so much about lately." She paused briefly to make sure she had Dracula's attention. "My husband," she nearly sneered, "seems utterly infatuated with you."

Picking up on the tinge of sarcasm in her voice, Spike glanced uncomfortably at his host. Dracula seemed somewhat embarrassed by her comments, but maintained his composure. No wonder the poor bastard keeps that fire roaring, he thought to himself, this bint's a bit on the frosty side.

Spike tried to think of some witty comeback to lighten the mood, but before he could speak the countess moved even closer. She began to look him over, lewdly, almost hungrily. Her hand traced up his arm, across his chest and then came to rest on his cheek.

"Dracula tells me," she cooed, "that you, are unique among our kind. He says you have a soul, one you fought valiantly for. I wonder, is it obvious to anyone?" Slowly, standing on her tiptoes she brought her face close to Spike's. Her gaze was mesmerizing, commanding his rapt attention. "Ahhh yes," she whispered seductively. "I can see it, there in your eyes, even smell it in the scent of your body. How very intoxicating."

Momentarily thrown by her boldness, Spike laughed nervously to himself as he thought, Okay, that is definitely the last time I nick any of Harris's damn aftershave. Poor sod truly is a demon magnet.

With another sly smile Elizabeth walked back to her husband and took his arm. "You are right about his power, my love. I can sense it. It emanates from him far more strongly than yours ever has," she taunted almost cruelly. By now the countess's intentions were baffling Spike. Bloody hell, is she playing me against Drac, trying to provoke a vampire pissin' contest?

The count had watched his wife's display with an odd mixture of jealousy, shame and rage, but he had done nothing to stop it. After another moment of uncomfortable silence, Dracula took his wife firmly by the arm. Spike could see her resist his touch, but something lethal in his gaze must have forced her compliance.

"You must forgive my new bride, Spike. She has such insatiable curiosity but tends to pry at times. You are indeed very different from other vampires she has met, but she forgets that you are also our guest, and we want you to feel at ease here."

He hesitated a moment to glare pointedly at his wife. Elizabeth met his gaze boldly, but then looked away, seemingly contrite. "Perhaps a tour of my castle would interest you, and then later we can settle down for some refreshments and conversation. Relive the good old times, yes?"

Spike truly did not remember any good old times with Dracula, so he had little desire to relive them. In fact, he wished he had never agreed to the count's invitation in the first place. He simply hoped he would be lucky enough to spot that damn goblet somewhere out in the open. Since that had not happened, he decided he would be just as happy to return to the Inn, but something told him Dracula was not going to offer that option.

Right now though, Spike was grateful for any diversion that might diffuse the tension between this 'less than happily married' couple. A lot of volatile sparks were flying around the count and his bride. Spike could sense a storm brewing and he really did not want to be here when lightning struck. As soon as he could get an opportune moment, he'd try to call Harris again and then make a hasty exit.

Putting his reservations aside for the moment, Spike nodded cheerfully and tried to look interested in seeing Dracula's fine home and accepting his hospitality.

~~~~~~~~

For the next hour or so Dracula gave Spike the grand tour of his castle. The count's former residences had all fallen into ruin or been restored as museums, but this current one had an air of permanence about it. Clearly the symbiotic relationship he shared with the villagers of Bistritz had paid off for him. The count was truly quite at home here.

Maybe too much at home, Spike worried.

He marveled at how modernized the castle was. Updated plumbing and electricity were expected he guessed, but computer hookups and satellite reception? What's next? he wondered, Necro tempered glass and a fleet of vamp mobiles, just like the Broody One's? Oh...uhh no offense, Angel, he added with a quick look skyward.

All these luxuries seemed a bit unusual for a vampire who insisted on clinging to the old ways of life. Maybe he did it to please the missus, Spike shrugged, but then again, the Poncey Prince of Darkness I knew was never one to consider roughing it, let alone be caught 'undead' living in some common crypt. Poser always had to have his poofter's clothes, fancy trappings and special dirt, like some prancing, spoiled nancy boy.

Elizabeth had accompanied them on the tour but followed a few paces behind. She glared angrily at her husband from time to time but remained silent. Spike knew that the Dracula of old would never have tolerated such insolence and behavior from his consort. He would have snapped the woman's neck without so much as a second thought. But Elizabeth apparently held a particular fascination for him, and he tried very hard to control his anger, even though Spike could tell that she was pushing him to his limits. Spike began to wonder if there was more to this marriage made in Hell than met the eye.

by alllie

When they returned to the main parlor, Dracula called for Victor and ordered him to bring them refreshments. Spike had seen Victor earlier when he first arrived at the castle, but Drac's right hand man had kept his distance.

A few minutes later Victor returned carrying a tray with a crystal decanter and several glasses. Placing the tray on the table, he avoided meeting Spike's eyes, ashamed to be seen performing such a menial task. The vamp couldn't resist needling him though.

by alllie

"Victor. Good to see you again, mate. Thought we were getting along right famously in Budapest, until you took off without so much as a goodbye."

Victor glanced nervously at his master, hoping he would intercede, then turned back to Spike. "My Lord Dracula was in urgent need of my services. My business with you however, was concluded, so I thought it best to..."

"Oh right, scurry off like a good little minion," Spike grinned.

Victor bristled with anger. "I am not a mere minion!" he muttered under his breath as Dracula came to his defense, and patted his shoulder reassuringly.

"Victor is my most trusted servant and devoted follower, Spike. I have relied on him for years to carry out my orders and he has never failed me. In due time he will be rewarded for his dedication."

Elizabeth had been watching this entire exchange with amusement. A cruel smile played across her lips when she heard Dracula's promise to Victor. Poor fool, she thought, the count will never honor his promise to you as long as Spike exists.

Victor was pleased that his master had spoken in his defense. He still clung desperately to the hope that Dracula would honor his years of faithful service. Perhaps I will be invited to stay and share a toast with the count and his guest, he thought.

His hope though, was dashed when Dracula picked up the decanter and began to fill the glasses. "That will be all, Victor," he said firmly. "Spike and I have a lot of history to catch up on. I will call you if I need you."

Victor's face burned with shame, and it was barely possible for him to contain his rage. Swallowing his pride, he bowed stiffly and strode out of the room. Now more than ever he was prepared to take an alternate course of action. His eyes met Elizabeth's as he passed by her chair, but he was not sure if he saw pity or pleasure in them.

Retreating to the anteroom outside the main parlor, he decided to listen in on the conversation. Now was not the time to let anger rule his actions. Careful planning had always been his forte, and he hoped that he could still find a way to turn the tide back in his favor. Even if he had to do it himself!

~~~~~~~~

"Allow me to propose a toast," Dracula offered as he handed Spike a goblet of rich, red liquid. "To old friends and new beginnings."

Spike hesitated, then took the glass and raised it slowly to his lips. It was blood of course, warm and human. The heady aroma was so enticing it made his mouth water. Spike's eyes momentarily flashed to gold as the demon within him began to stir. From the very depths of his being the voice of the beast began to howl, calling to him, struggling to break free. Summoning his strength, he willed himself to hear the other voice, the quiet one that soothed him and kept him focused.

Dracula noted Spike's hesitation. "Don't worry my friend," he urged, "no one has died to provide our nourishment. I assure you, the donor gave it quite willingly."

His temptation suppressed, Spike trembled as he sat the glass down on the table. "Uhhh...if it's all the same to you, mate, I think I'd rather help myself to some of that vintage cognac instead. I'm off the human stuff these days, except for emergencies."

The count watched as Spike poured himself a large snifter of the brandy and downed nearly half of it in one draught. Elizabeth watched too, a mixture of curiosity and contempt on her lovely face. Her husband might think that Spike's soul made him special, but she was beginning to think it only made him weak. Even though she could sense that Spike was indeed very powerful, she certainly had seen no indication of any ruthless vampire nature. Surely this is not the legendary warrior that Dracula wants so desperately as his general, she mused with sarcasm.

"It must be very frustrating for you Spike," she taunted, drinking deeply from her glass and then seductively licking the errant droplets from her lips, "having to give up the taking of blood, and the thrill of the hunt. The blood is the life after all. Is it not, my husband?"

Dracula was cautious in his reply. "It is indeed, my love, but there are still many ways to savor it. Spike has simply chosen a more...unorthodox approach. Is that not so, my friend?"

"Actually, Countess," Spike explained, "I haven't given up on drinking blood. Just don't get it from the human tap any more. Instead mine comes from neat and handy plastic bags, or the butcher's sh..."

"You drink the blood of animals!" she recoiled in disgust.

"Elizabeth, please, it is not your place to judge," Dracula interrupted, clearly worried by the direction the conversation was going.

Spike though, seemed unconcerned as he continued, "Oh right, I admit I wasn't too thrilled about the prospect of a diet of pig's blood, but jazz it up with a touch of otter or mink...makes it right passable, even tasty. You should try it."

"That may satisfy your rather...common palate," she sniffed in disdain, "but my aristocratic upbringing would never suffer me to settle for such plebian tastes."

Spike was perplexed by the countess's growing animosity towards him. Not to mention the escalating power struggle between her and the count. An hour ago he could swear she was coming on to him in front of her husband. Now she acted like she was ready to toss Spike out like yesterday's trash. Momentarily wounded by her insults, he decided not to let it show. After all, he'd been insulted by experts all his life. Compared to them, she was an amateur. Besides, he figured, I can definitely give back as good as I get.

"Trust me, my lady," Spike bowed with feigned respect, "even you might be surprised at what you'd stoop to in order to survive. As far as the thrill of the hunt goes, well, lets just say I can still get my violence on. Only now, I pick and choose who that violence is against. I'm still a warrior, just prefer to fight for the good guys."

Now it was Spike's turn to watch her squirm. Sometime during the verbal fencing, that nagging little voice in the back of his mind finally told him just who Drac's new bride really was. Elizabeth Bathory, The Blood Countess. My God, he thought, this woman was a monster in her own right when she was human. What the hell was the blighter thinking turning her into a vamp? Maybe the poor bastard literally bit off more than he can chew with this shrew. Almost feel sorry for the fool, well...almost.

Elizabeth's eyes burned with anger. She could barely mask the hatred in her voice. "So, you admit it then. You hunt demons! You would kill your own kind!"

Spike's gaze was as steady as his voice. "If it becomes necessary...yes, I would. I have!"

Gasping in disbelief at Spike's brazen admission, Elizabeth looked expectantly at her husband, hoping he would silence this blasphemous traitor once and for all. But Dracula's reaction was not what she expected or had wanted. Instead he ignored her pleading expression and returned it with a murderous gaze of his own. One that warned her he would tolerate no further outbursts. This left her even more frustrated and angry, but she held her tongue.

"The soul has definitely changed you Spike," Dracula sighed wearily. His lethal gaze was still focused on his bride. "Apparently Elizabeth finds this concept too hard to comprehend. I do hope her rudeness has not offended you."

Spike took another deep drink of the cognac and then set the glass on the table. "You're right," he said thoughtfully, "I have changed. No sense in denying it. Sometimes I do miss the old life. It was exciting after all, but I've come to value my new life more."

Hesitating a moment, he continued on, his voice softer, "Went through hell getting my soul back. Don't want to risk bollixing it up now. Still, I can see where the whole idea of a vampire wanting his soul back could be a bit hard to comprehend. So no, I'm not offended."

Spike glanced at the count and his bride. The atmosphere was definitely tense. Time to make an exit, he decided. Have to talk about that goblet later.

"Actually, mate, I'm thinking I might be starting to wear out my welcome. You being newlyweds and all...need some quality 'alone time'. So I'll just signal for my ride and head on back to the Inn."

Pressing the buttons on his phone, Spike pretended to send a text message. "Right then, they should be here soon. So, thank you for your hospitality, and the excellent cognac. My team and I will see you tomorrow then, that is if your offer still stands?"

As Spike prepared to leave he noticed that Dracula appeared anxious. Elizabeth just seemed indifferent.

"Of course the offer still stands, but I wish you would reconsider. The night is young and there is so much we two have to discuss."

"I'm sure there is a lot to talk about, but I really do need the participation of my team for that. I'm not the expert on the artifacts or the ritual."

"Forget the ritual Spike! There are far more important things to consider for the future!"

Spike looked at the count in confusion. The countess looked at them both with contempt but her interest was once again piqued.

"Ummm," Spike started slowly, "in case you didn't get the memo mate, unless this ritual is successful, I don't think any of us are going to be worrying about the future, period. That sounds pretty important to me."

Dracula had to choose his words very carefully now. He could not risk letting Spike slip out of his grasp. The vampire with a soul was far too valuable, his blood the key ingredient for his ultimate power elixir.

In reality the count hoped Spike would see his vision for a new world order and join him willingly. A vampire of Spike's prowess would be an extraordinary asset, and a formidable force. Although he never had any real intention of sharing the elixir with Spike or Elizabeth for that matter, he still wanted them under his control. If they were faithful seconds they would be rewarded. If not...eliminated.

"Perhaps I should explain myself more clearly," Dracula laughed softly. "I am not discounting the ritual or it's significance Spike. I am simply questioning our part in it. You promised to deliver the required artifacts and I will indeed help you secure the one you seek in my homeland. But after that, the responsibility falls to the humans. Let them perform the offering at the Autumnal Equinox for all of us. I am certain that both the Council of Watchers and the representatives from Wolfram and Hart will do everything within their power to ensure success. In the meantime, we will be looking forward to what lies beyond that success."

"The Council will do their part, but I don't trust those wankers at Wolfram and Hart to do the same. They're a bit too dodgy to suit me lately. And as for myself, I'm committed to seeing this through. Got too many people I love or care about to back off now."

"All the more reason to accept the proposition I am about to offer you," Dracula smiled slyly.

"Proposition? From you...oh that's rich. A bloke who can't even make good on an eleven pound debt? I'd be daft to consider anything new you had to offer. And speaking of that little sum, thought we were going to settle up?"

"Spike, Spike," Dracula chastised in frustration," what I have to offer you is so much more than mere money. I'm talking about power, power beyond your wildest dreams. Power so strong that neither Wolfram and Hart nor any other force could ever challenge you or harm the ones you love."

He paused briefly, studying Spike's face. "I am willing to share this power with you Spike, unless of course, you are not interested. Perhaps you would rather spend eternity in selfless servitude to mankind as hired muscle for the Council of Watchers."

"I would say he has already made that choice, my love," Elizabeth sneered absently. "Your dreams are wasted on this so called champion. He will never see your vision. His soul blinds him."

"Woman!" the count bellowed. "Hold your tongue! Your insults undermine every effort I have made, and I will tolerate NO MORE OF THEM!"

Spike looked nervously at the angry couple. If his wife's looks could kill, Drac would have been dust by now, but Spike had to give him credit for laying down the law. Way to go, mate, put her in her place. Just wouldn't count on getting much loving tonight if I were you, though.

Stalking away, Elizabeth poured herself another goblet of blood and retreated in a huff to the settee, as Dracula turned his attention once more to his guest. The 'legend' looked a bit flustered so Spike grasped him on the shoulder then leaned in to converse with him privately.

"Look old man, don't take this the wrong way," he whispered, "but all this talk of super powers, visions and plans makes me wonder if maybe you're going through some mid-life crisis or having delusions of grandeur and what not?"

Dracula sighed in exasperation, "I assure you that is not the case--if you will just hear me out."

"Sure, sure, but if there truly is a power that can take out Wolfram and Hart I think I really need to discuss that with my team and the Council."

"NO!" Dracula shouted. "It does not concern them, or belong under their control. It belongs to us, Spike. That power is part of you, but only I have the means to release it."

"What the bloody hell are you going on about?"

Dracula looked cautiously at his wife. Her anger was growing and she gripped her glass so tightly he was sure it would shatter. Elizabeth was becoming dangerously disruptive. There was no more time to waste. He had to win Spike's cooperation.

"The humans may be able to save the existence of magic in this world, but in the end they will not be able to save themselves. The fate of mankind teeters on the precipice of destruction. They need strong leadership to save themselves and this earth from total ruin. That is where we come in. For centuries I have had visions of my own new world order and now, with your help, I am poised to see it happen."

"Riiiight...new world order...my help. Ummm...how?"

Dracula's eyes sparkled with fevered excitement, and Spike was seriously beginning to think the old poofter had finally gone 'sack of hammers' on him for real.

From her seat on the couch, Elizabeth rolled her eyes, mocking her husband as he continued his impassioned speech.

"You and I are really quite alike, Spike. We both have chosen women named Elizabeth as mates. We both see great value in preserving the earth from careless ruin. Even my very surname Tepes, is Romanian for spike. It's almost as though fate has made us blood brothers."

Dracula paused, gazing at Spike expectantly. "I want you to be my general, Spike. To rule at my side and command my army! Surely you would accept such an honor?"

by alllie

Spike was dumbfounded. If he closed his eyes he could almost picture the Poncey Prince as Satan, trying to tempt him to sell his soul. He looked at Dracula sympathetically, trying to stifle his laughter. "Okay, no offense, mate, but other than the obvious vampire stuff, I really don't think you and I have that much in common. I mean, the name thing is interesting and all, but ummm...don't you think it's stretching things a bit?"

Noticing Dracula's wounded expression, Spike continued on as gently as he could. "Besides, I really don't fancy myself as a 'leading an army of minions' type of guy, or getting into the whole world domination thing. I just like my life the way it is right now."

"But with the position comes the power Spike, and that power is your destiny."

"Rather be in charge of my own destiny if you don't mind," Spike sighed impatiently," but right now, I really need to get going. Hopefully my ride is here."

He strode towards the door but Dracula barred his exit.

"Please Spike," he pleaded, "do not throw this opportunity away. This power is very real!"

Spike hesitated reluctantly as the count continued with desperation in his voice.

"I have within my possession two pieces of an intricate puzzle. One is a jewel-encrusted goblet that has been passed down through my family for generations. The other is an enchanted vessel that holds the remains of one of the world's most powerful entities. For centuries the third piece of the puzzle has eluded me, it's mysterious riddle unsolved, until I learned about the demon who fought to regain his soul. You are the missing puzzle piece Spike. That is why I sought you out, why I arranged for you to come here."

by alllie

Spike had been listening skeptically to what he thought were the deluded ravings of this fading icon, but he picked up on the mention of the goblet. Balls! he thought to himself. Ten to one the count's precious puzzle piece is the same damn artifact we need to snag. Doubt he's going to just hand it over without a fight. Maybe if I play along a bit though, I can get him to show me where it is.

"All right, you've got my attention. How exactly do I fit into this puzzle?" he asked tentatively.

"Your blood is the key Spike!" Dracula answered with reverence. "When the dust of the entity is mixed with even mere drops of your blood within my goblet, the power of this great being is released. Anyone who drinks this blood cocktail becomes invincible. If you agree to join me I will share this power elixir with you as well as with my bride. No force on earth will be stronger than we are. Do you understand now what this can mean for you? For us?"

Bloody hell, Spike thought nervously, the poor sod's totally lost it. Now he wants me to join in the insanity? Despite his shock at the count's revelation and the sick feeling growing in the pit of his stomach, he maintained his composure. Got news for you, you crazy bastard, he vowed to himself. No matter how little blood you profess to need, you aren't getting a drop. At least, not if I can help it.

Spike was definitely not thrilled that his blood was in any way attractive to the count. Not only that, even the remotest possibility of a cold hearted bitch like Elizabeth gaining super powers made him cringe. Although his reasoning told him that Dracula's plans were probably certifiable, he had no doubt that the count believed in this fantasy. After all, something strange was definitely going on around here, and now that Spike suspected the count was behind it all, he feared a confrontation was inevitable.

Right now though, the mission was the prime objective. Regardless of whether Drac's super power mumbo jumbo was real or not, his goblet was still part of this mess and the team needed to secure it. Cursing himself silently once again for coming out here with no reinforcements or transportation, he maintained his bravado and stalled for time, hoping he could still get Drac to reveal the location of the goblet.

"Gotta admit, mate," he lied, "that's a pretty tempting offer and I just might be willing to give it some serious thought. Problem is though, it would mean some pretty monumental life changes, so I'd need to talk things over with my team, and especially with Buffy. I agree that this power seems too good to be true, but I really don't see her liking us working together, given her less than fond memories of you and all. Last thing I'd want to do is alienate the ones I love."

"Ahhh yes, the Slayer," Dracula pondered, "she may indeed protest our alliance, but I am sure that you can convince her that power like this would only insure the safety of the ones you love. Everyone would benefit in the long run. I respect that you would consider her opinion of course, but remember, Spike, women should compliment our lives, not command them."

Spike groaned silently as he noticed the countess bristle with anger at that remark. He thought maybe a little diplomacy on his part might smooth things over. "Thanks for the vote of confidence, but trust me, it would take a lot of convincing to win Buffy over. I trust her instincts though, sometimes more than my own, and I definitely welcome her opinion, since she's usually pretty quick at giving it to me."

Spike chuckled at the thought of what Buffy's opinion of this whole fiasco would be. "Anyway, isn't there a saying behind every great man stands an even greater woman? I think that just might be true."

He glanced cautiously over at Elizabeth, hoping he'd won a few brownie points with that one.He hadn't! Her eyes just shot daggers at both men now.

Shrugging it off, he grinned at Dracula then continued. "There is one other concern though, mate. Need a bit of proof that this power is real before I ever consider donating any of my blood to the cause. How do I know that this goblet and the demon dust actually exist? You ran out on a debt before, so what makes you think I would even trust you this time around?"

Dracula smiled at Spike's candor. "Ahhh, Spike, I am wounded that you doubt my sincerity, but I can understand your need for proof. And so, you shall have it! Come then, I will show you my treasures."

~~~~~~~~

Elizabeth had been listening intently to their conversation and bolted to her feet, eager to follow them. "I will accompany you, as well, my husband."

"Not this time, Elizabeth," Dracula ordered curtly, "I need to speak privately with Spike. Please wait here or retire to your chambers."

The countess approached her husband fearlessly, unwilling to be so casually dismissed. "Anything you have to say to him," she spat indignantly, "you will say in my presence. I will not tolerate you withholding secrets from me any longer."

Spike held his breath as Dracula's face contorted with growing rage. It was clear to him that the count was fast approaching the limit of his tolerance. "Ummm...I think it might be better if I just said goodnight, mate," Spike said quietly, "don't want to be the cause of any trouble and all. We can continue this later."

Dracula momentarily ignored him, focusing his attention on his bride. His eyes were black with anger, his voice a low growl.

"Listen carefully, Elizabeth, and you would be wise to remember this. I will withhold whatever I choose from you, madam! If I feel that I can confide in you, I will share my secrets! When I feel that you are worthy of sharing my power, I will bestow it upon you! Until then it would be in your best interest to follow my orders and earn my respect, instead of constantly challenging my authority."

The count paused briefly and sadly shook his head. His next words seemed both desperate and ominous. "I tire of this constant conflict, Elizabeth. I will not warn you again!"

But the countess was unmoved."You pathetic fool!" She laughed bitterly. "Do you actually think you can trust this traitor to be your ally? He turns his back on his own kind! Why would he ever desire to share in your grand plans or visions? No doubt he considers them the ravings of some deluded madman. He mocks you behind your back, or even worse, plots to steal your secrets for his own use. Yet you would still confide in him over me?"

Hey now, Spike pouted to himself, clearly irritated by her suspicions, let's not start accusing me of mocking or ulterior motives here. For the record, I at least pretended to be interested in the madman's delusions. Thought I was right nice about it too.

"Enough, Elizabeth!" Dracula roared, as he stepped towards her with his fists clenched. "GO TO YOUR CHAMBERS! NOW!"

Dracula's bride stood her ground in staunch defiance. "I will not!" she glowered.

The count's handsome face took on a feral appearance, the tips of his fangs gleaming. "Then, I am forced to escort you," he hissed, approaching his wife with menace.

Suddenly and without warning, Elizabeth hurled the goblet of blood that she had been holding, at her husband. It shattered at his feet, stopping him unexpectedly in his tracks. Staring in stunned surprise, he continued on towards her, but she seized another glass and sent it flying in his direction. Both men ducked as it crashed into the wall behind them. Blood trickled down onto the Persian carpet.

by alllie

"Right then," Spike mumbled in panic, "I'll just be leaving. Now!" Keeping his eyes on the warring couple Spike backed away quickly, headed for the door.

The deadly standoff continued as Elizabeth picked up the decanter of blood this time and smashed it to pieces.

Working her way across the room, she tipped over an ornate curio cabinet, and its contents of priceless antique figurines met an untimely death in mere seconds.

Snatching up a huge shard of broken glass, the countess then turned her attention to the count's treasured artwork. With malicious glee she sliced jagged tears in several of the masterpieces.

Dracula acted like he was rooted to the floor, paralyzed with shock and dismay, unable to stop her rampage. "Elizabeth," he threatened, "I order you to stop this insanity! Immediately!" When threats failed he tried begging, "Please, I implore you! Your behavior is most unseemly."

Spike actually felt sorry for the poor poofter, knowing how particular the count was about his prized possessions. But the countess did not share her husbands pain. In response to his pleas she simply smashed one of many crystal liquor bottles against the marble fireplace. Now Spike winced in dismay as the flames leapt and sizzled, hungrily consuming the alcohol.

Even the vase of long stem roses that Dracula provided daily for his bride's pleasure, did not escape her fury. The embodiment of his romantic gesture met the same fate as nearly every other piece of glass in the room already had. Shattered into a million pieces!

Spike had finally seen enough and decided to bolt. "I'll just be letting myself out," he called back over his shoulder as he reached the parlor door. "Oh, and in case I neglected to say it--it was a real pleasure meeting you, Countess!"

This time Elizabeth grabbed the cognac decanter and aimed for Spike's retreating figure. He had just enough time to slip out and pull the door safely behind him before the decanter and its expensive contents crashed into and then drenched the polished wood.

~~~~~~~~

From his hiding place in the anti-room off the main parlor, Victor was surprised to see Spike come out of the room alone. Hastily pulling the door behind him, the vamp hurried to the castle's main doors and went out into the night.

Victor considered trying to detain Spike, in case his master had not wanted him to leave, but the loud noises coming from the parlor convinced him that perhaps Dracula had more immediate matters to contend with at the moment.

For the past several minutes Victor had heard nothing but angry shouts, followed by the sound of breaking glass, and now Spike's hasty exit. From the bits of conversation he did pick up on, he could tell that his new mistress certainly did not take orders well. Not only that, but it was obvious that Elizabeth, much like himself, was not happy competing with the do-gooder vampire with a soul for Dracula's attention. Pressing his ear to the wall, Victor continued to listen as the battle waged on.

~~~~~~~~

There were very few breakable items left in the room that had escaped Elizabeth's wrath. Her beautiful face was twisted with rage as she grabbed a Ming vase from the mantle and prepared to hurl it at Dracula.

That was the last straw! Snapping out of his torpor, the count bounded across the room, seized his bride roughly by the shoulders and shook her violently.

"Have you taken leave of all your senses woman?" he snarled! "Your senseless outbursts may very well have ruined any chance I had at securing Spike's cooperation. This is your last warning Elizabeth. Do not test my patience further. I will not tolerate such behavior. Especially from my wife!"

"Then you shall have no wife sir," she spat! "I will not suffer an existence that demands me to come to your bed like a common whore, or bask in your glory like your simpering servants! You say you chose me to rule at your side and realize your grand vision. Then share your secrets with me as well. All of them! Don't waste them on this pretender of a vampire who prides himself in being the champion of the people. His loyalty is to mere mortals, and he would kill his own kind to prove it. He will never give you what you need from him. You will have to take it! I wonder if you still have the courage to do so?"

Elizabeth drew herself up to her full height and fearlessly met her husband's murderous stare. "If I am indeed your queen then prove it!. Make me your only equal! If not, then I demand you release me from this sham of a marriage! I wish you to SET ME FREE!"

by nmcil

With that, she wrenched herself out of his grip and stormed out of the room, leaving the heavy oak door gaping open in her wake. Her footsteps echoed in the foyer as she ran up the stairs to her private chambers.

Victor peered around the corner and watched in smug satisfaction as the countess retreated. His mistress's disillusion with her husband might very well make her open to suggestion. Perhaps my dreams can still be realized, he thought to himself. I think the time may be right for a new alliance.

Back in the main parlor, Dracula winced at the sharp crack of Elizabeth's door slamming shut. He considered going after her for a moment, but then stopped and stared absently into the fire.

All his grand plans were crumbling to ruin. Spike had escaped, and probably considered him a delusional old fool, not only for his ambitions, but for his choice in a bride as well.

After being humiliated by her behavior tonight, the count realized Elizabeth was far too treacherous and power hungry to trust. Where did I go wrong? he pondered sadly, surveying the carnage in the room around him, as the tip of his boot brushed against a piece of a shattered music box.

But soon anger and cold resolve replaced his feelings of melancholy. "Perhaps you are right, Elizabeth," he whispered. "What will not come to me by choice, I shall take by force. I still have legions of faithful servants who will do my bidding, and deliver unto me anything I desire."

by alllie

He looked down at the remains of the porcelain ballerina at his feet. "As for you, my dear wife," he smiled cruelly, "I advise you to tread carefully. If you continue to defy me you may just get your wish!" Bringing his heel down on the figurine, Dracula ground the glass into dust.

~~~~~~~~

Spike bounded down the castle's front stairs and withdrew into the shadows along the carriageway. He was pretty sure that Dracula would be too busy mourning the demise of his antique collection, or fending off the countess to come after him, but he still thought it best to keep out of sight.

After m'Lady's little hissy fit, he chuckled to himself, it would take a whole lot more than great make up sex to keep those two together. If you ask me though, I'd say the bloody honeymoon is pretty much over.

Pulling out his cell phone he quickly punched in Xander's number hoping that since he was outside the castle walls the call would now go through. He pushed SEND and waited. The display lit up! He could hear the call go through and then...silence.

"Oh, come on, come on," Spike grumbled then pushed SEND again. The backlit display blinked twice, then flashed, then faded, then beeped annoyingly, then...went blank. "Huh? No!" he whimpered. "Please no!"

Shaking the phone gingerly, Spike rapped it sharply with his fist then pressed SEND again and prayed. NOTHING! "Oh, sod it all to bloody hell! Damn it!!!! Piece of useless plastic!"

Spike drew his arm back, ready to smash the phone against the wall, but reconsidered. Ahhh, bugger that. Don't need Haley reading me the bleedin' riot act for destroying Council property or some such rubbish. In frustration he stuffed it back in his coat pocket.

Leaning back against the stones Spike closed his eyes and hung his head, cursing his own stupidity for not charging the cell phone's battery. A minute later though, he was cursing Xander for not reminding him to charge it, or better yet, for not doing it for him. Regardless of whoever's fault it was though, it did not change his predicament.

"Brilliant! Now what idiot?" he admonished himself. "Obviously not going to be calling in the cavalry so...better come up with Plan B." Hesitating a moment, he looked around, then frowned in disappointment. "Since Drac didn't think to leave the keys to the 'Vladillac' laying around anywhere, it looks like Plan B means I better start walking."

From what he could remember of the maps, Dracula's castle was about 20 kilometers outside of Bistritz. The carriage ride from the village had taken a good hour or more even at a brisk trot. But then again, they had not stayed on the main road. They veered off onto some cart paths through the woods as they approached the castle. A straight shot from the castle to the town might be a little shorter, but Spike really wanted to keep a low profile and not attract attention.

As he had made his exit a few minutes ago, he noticed the clock in the foyer read 2 A.M. Sighing wearily, he contemplated the long trek back to Bistritz and started walking behind the castle headed towards the woods. Even at a vampire's pace it'll take me nearly three hours to get back to town. That doesn't leave a lot of time before sunrise but it's the best my legs can do going cross country.

"Unless," he grinned as he eyed the now horseless carriage parked behind the castle, "four legs are better than two, right? 'Black Beauty' has got to be around here somewhere! Just follow my nose!"

Inhaling deeply Spike walked towards a small bank barn that sat behind a rugged fence of wooden rails and fieldstone. Climbing over the wall he opened one side of the double doors and ducked inside. Immediately the aroma of warm horseflesh, sweet smelling hay, fine leather and pungent manure filled his nostrils.

Ahhh, he thought fondly, remembering a happier time from his youth, Now, this takes me back. Way back!

Most Victorian gentlemen, living within the city, traveled in coaches instead of riding astride, but Spike had spent many hours riding with his cousin Nigel on the Hawthorne family farm, as a young man. Even so, it had been years since then that he had actually 'sat a horse'. Spike winced in sadness at more recent memories of his cousin, but he shook it off quickly and concentrated on finding the big black horse that had pulled Dracula's carriage.

Beauty, as Spike had affectionately dubbed him, was indeed there and so were five others, just like him. The horses were bedded down for the night, contentedly munching their hay, or dozing quietly, but when they noticed Spike's presence they became agitated, sensing a predator in their midst.

The animals were used to Dracula, and most likely were kept under the vampire's thrall. But this vampire was different and definitely not their master. Spike moved as quietly as possible, trying not to spook the animals, but knew he had to hurry before anyone came to investigate.

Finding a saddle and bridle hanging on the wall, Spike approached the first stall.

The great black horse eyed him warily and backed into the corner, snorting its displeasure, and pawing the ground.

by nmcil & alllie

Spike couldn't remember if he'd read it somewhere or had seen it on TV, but the trick to quieting a nervous horse was to cover its eyes so it couldn't see what was going on.

He grabbed a large rag and entered the stall slowly. Beauty lay back his ears, and kicked the back of the stall, but Spike quickly grabbed the horse's halter and wrapped the cloth around his eyes. Almost like magic, the animal calmed down enough for Spike to quickly saddle him and walk him out into the breezeway.

Patting the horse's neck reassuringly he whispered as he gently removed the blindfold, "Easy now, mate. Just going to borrow you for a few hours. I promise to send you home with one of your master's village lackeys later this afternoon. Might be a extra measure of oats in this whole deal if you play nice, right?"

Spike did not think twice about stealing Drac's horse. After all, he figured the wanker owed him anyway. He was however, thinking twice about riding this huge brute. Taking a deep, unneeded breath, he muttered nervously to himself, "Right then! Nothing to it! Just like riding a bicycle. I think! I uhhh...hope."

Placing his left foot in the stirrup, he grasped the reins and began to hoist himself into the saddle. For a moment Beauty stood as still as a statue, but then, with his eyes uncovered and an open door in front of him, the horse bolted for the paddock.

Spike barely had time to seat himself properly and grab a handfull of mane before his right leg slammed into the still latched half of the barn door. Howling in pain he cursed his mount as he struggled valiantly to remain in the saddle.

"OWWWWWW! You bloody bastard! WHOA! WHOA! Damn it! Hold on now!" Clutching the saddle's pommel Spike managed to get his right foot in the stirrup, then gathering the reins, he hung on for dear life as they took off at break neck speed across the pasture.

~~~~~~~~

From his hillside lookout Mike awakened with a start, as the infra-red scanner beeped frantically. "Shit!" he croaked groggily and sat up in his seat. "Must have dozed off!"

Fortunately for Mike, it had been a pretty quiet night so far. The only action he'd seen was about an hour or so ago when the coachman unhitched the horse. There had been a minor beep in the last half hour, but nothing ever came of it so he'd let himself relax again.

Now he could make out a large object moving rapidly across the screen. Zooming in on the blip he magnified the image. Picking up his binoculars he scanned the dark horizon.

"Spike? What the hell are you doing, man? "He gasped when he recognized the unmistakable platinum haired vamp astride what appeared to be a huge horse.

by nmcil & alllie

"Nice ride dude," Mike chuckled in disbelief, "and to think I always had you figured for a mega horsepower type of guy. 'Course, way out here in Medieval-ville, a fast horse probably does count as a sports coupe! Can't wait to hear you explain this one though."

Suddenly in the middle of his laughter, Mike panicked and trained his binoculars up and down the pasture, then back on the castle's entrance.

"Oh, Jesus," he prayed, as it dawned on him that Spike could be in danger, "don't let there be an army of zombie minions chasing him!"

Thankfully he saw nothing! There was no one else in sight. "Whew," he gulped nervously. Making another sweep of the area he could see that Spike was still alone, and headed for the woods. At least if he was running away there was no one trying to pursue him.

Mike considered his next move. He really could not tell if Spike was in trouble or just out for a late night joy ride. For now it appeared that the vamp was in no immediate danger, and there was no sign of Dracula at all. There was no way he could pursue Spike on foot through the woods, and that horse could go places even the SUV couldn't.

He made a quick call to the Wolfram and Hart spies in Bistritz, alerting them that Spike was on horseback and possibly headed in their direction. Then he turned his attention back to the castle's perimeter. If things got any weirder he would call for backup, wake the Dragon Lady and take off after Spike, but for now all he could do was keep his eyes open.

Wide open, he vowed. Need to stay alert. Can't give the bitch any more ammunition to use against me with Sirk. That bastard will off me for sure if I fail this time.

Mike looked reluctantly at his half empty bourbon bottle. This whole 'Dracula being interested in Spike thing' gives me the creeps, he shuddered. Just hope our vampire soul man has got this game under control. Sighing, he stuffed the liquor back under his seat and reached for the thermos of coffee.

~~~~~~~~

Fortunately, the dense fog had dissipated, and with the help of the moonlight and his vampire vision Spike could see the end of the pasture fast approaching. Straight ahead, intersecting a long stretch of stonewall and split rails was a long wooden gate. Beyond that there was nothing but dense woods.

By this time, he had managed to take a little better control of his mount. The horse maintained a brisk gallop but had slowed up a bit as it neared the fence, realizing its confinement. Pulling back firmly on the reins, Spike steered the beast closer to the gate.

"Slow down there, Secretariat," he pleaded. "Give me a chance to get that gate open." For a moment the horse seemed to respond, but as Spike leaned out to lift the latch, it whirled around, nearly tossing him sideways and then took off again at a dead run straight for the stonewall.

Spike's eyes widened in terror as he realized what was about to happen. All he could do was dig into his stirrups, grab the front of the saddle and a handful of mane...and PRAY.

"Holy Mother of God," he whispered. Squeezing his eyes shut tightly, right before they met the wall, he felt Beauty's huge hindquarters flex and push off the turf. Then--they were airborne!

The next moment he felt a solid thud as the horse's feet reclaimed the ground on the other side of the wall. Cautiously opening his eyes again, he gasped in relief and glanced back over his shoulder. He was amazed at the way the animal had cleared that jump without so much as breaking its stride. He was even more amazed that he had been able to stay on its back.

Feeling a bit cocky now, Spike gloated in his skill. "Right! Nothing to it! Piece of cake!" Patting the horse's neck he urged him on towards the woods. "Next time though, might want to pick a mount who doesn't think he's running in the Grand National."

by Ldynwaitin

Entering the woods the horse slowed to a trot, and Spike looked around anxiously, trying to spot the familiar cart path, but he was too disoriented. Between trying to dodge branches to the face and banging his knees on every available tree trunk, he had enough to contend with just keeping Beauty on the trail.

As luck would have it, about fifteen minutes later, he spied a narrow stretch of dirt road up ahead in the clearing. He knew the cart paths were offshoots of the main road so he hoped to follow them as far as possible to the outskirts of town. He just hoped he was headed in the right direction.

In the distance Spike could hear the sound of running water and remembered they had crossed over a fairly wide stream using an elevated wooden bridge during their trek to the castle. Hopefully, if he followed the streambed it would bring him to that bridge and then closer to the main roads to Bistritz. Or maybe, he could even find a more suitable place to cross the water before the bridge and save some time.

Turning his mount in the direction of the sound he urged him forward. Sure enough, in no time they had reached the water's edge.

Staring at the stream in front of him, Spike could see that it was maybe six to eight feet wide and about two and a half feet deep. The streambed though, was very rocky and some parts of the bank were steeply sloped. Even though the water wasn't that deep, its flow was turbulent as it rushed on downstream to meet the river. On the other side of the stream he could make out a wider cart path and up around the bend of the road, what looked like kilometer markers.

"Now there's a stroke of luck, old man," he murmured, bending down close to the horse's ear. "What do you say we cross over and check out the road signs? Figure out where the bleedin' hell we're going."

Gingerly Spike urged the horse down the embankment. Beauty eyed the slope fearfully. He took a few steps forward, but then slipped in the mud and stopped in his tracks. Side stepping nervously, he began to back pedal up the bank in reverse. Spike urged him on again, but the horse jigged to the side and refused to move any further. Feeling Spike's boot heel in his side, he whirled and bounded up the bank away from the water.

"Oh come on, Dobbin," the vamp growled in frustration. "Just saw you leap a four foot wall without so much as batting an eye, don't think I'm going to believe you're afraid of getting your feet wet!"

The horse pawed the ground and shook his head, trying to fight the bit in his mouth, and gain control. Spike was ready for his resistance though, and firmly pulled on the reins, circling the horse back around to face the water. Then driving his heels sharply into Beauty's flanks, he spurred the animal straight for the bank.

"Don't want to walk across? Fine! We'll jump it then," Spike shouted smacking the horse's rump. "Get up now horse! Go on!"

Responding to his rider's command, the great beast lurched forward running at full speed. Once again Spike could feel the thunderous power of the horse's hind legs as they bore down on the water's edge, and he readied himself to take another leap of faith!

Six inches from the edge, Beauty planted all of his hooves firmly, lowered his head and neck forward and came to a screeching HALT!

Spike barely got off one "BLOODY HELL!" before he found himself somersaulting through the air over the horse's head, and landing most ungracefully on his butt in the middle of the brook. As he fell one arm pulled out of his duster and the current threatened to drag his beloved coat downstream.

by alllie

SPLASH! THUD! "OOOPH! OW...bloody, soddin', OW!" he wailed as he fell back in the water, cracking his head on some submerged rocks.

It took him a few minutes to gather his wits about him, but Spike struggled up painfully shaking off the cold water, and looked around for the horse. Scrambling up the muddy bank, he slipped down and banged his knees, all the while cursing his stupidity.

"Great! Now you've done it you simple git! Making out like you're some swaggering cowboy!"

Beauty stood about fifteen feet away from the bank, reins trailing on the ground, watching Spike with what the vamp swore was evil equine amusement. Every time Spike approached him the horse would toss his head and paw the ground snorting, then move a little further away.

"Come on now, big fella," he pleaded softly. "Come on back to Spike like a noble steed. Promise we'll do it your way, no more water. Right?"

Slowly inching his way closer to the horse, he nearly grabbed the reins, but Beauty was too cagey. With one more defiant snort and stomp, the horse reared and whirled out of Spike's reach, then ran off through the woods heading for his home.

"Why you bloody son of a ...! WAIT! WHOA!" Spike bellowed in angry frustration. "Come back here you...you flea bitten, sway backed, hay burning OLD HACK!"

The horse, of course, ignored him and continued to flee.

In desperation Spike hurled more insults at its disappearing form. "You're nothing but a knock-kneed knacker's nag! YOU HEAR ME? Destined for FIDO FOOD, that's what you are!"

As he stood there, staring off into the night he prayed the horse would stop and come back, but it was to no avail. Beauty was long gone!

Bowing his head in defeat, Spike sighed and started back down the bank and into the stream. Just to have the last word though, he turned around and threw out one more barb in the horse's general direction.

"FINE! TAKE OFF THEN! 'Course, if you run into any of your master's other pets, you know, the children of the night variety, you might wish you had stayed with good old Spike after all!"

After sloshing through the stream to the other side, Spike limped painfully down the cart path heading in what he hoped was the direction of the main road. He no longer cared about keeping a low profile. He just wanted to get back to the Inn. Fast!

"Can this whole night get any worse?" he grumbled, pondering his reckless behavior. "So much for my great escape! Total disaster, that's for sure! What the hell was I thinking? I'm a hero now, regular bloody champion! I can do anything! Right?"

"Oh yeah! That'll be the day," he laughed bitterly. "Can't even steal a soddin' nag from soddin' Count Poncelot's castle without getting tossed on my bleedin' arse! Oh how bloody far the mighty have fallen!"

Lost in his thoughts, Spike tripped on a rock in the road and nearly fell on his face. He kicked it out of his way furiously and continued to berate himself.

"Never should have gone out there without backup, you git! Or at least a car! Splitting up the team up like that! That's gotta be one of the stupidest bloody moves I've ever made! Stupider than any poor tosser or simple bint I've ever ridiculed. Hell, dumber than anything even Harm would try, except that she'd probably have done it wearing heels..."

Up ahead he saw the kilometer marker. Fortunately it pointed to Bistritz. Unfortunately it said 12 kilometers.

Frowning wearily Spike picked up his pace, still mumbling to himself, "Worst part is--I didn't even follow my own advice! What kind of a leader does that? Harris will probably have a good laugh at my expense, not to mention the delight he'll take in making up an even more colorful version to tell Buffy."

Groaning in dread at that thought, Spike shrugged," Partly Harris' fault though. Wanker could have tried harder to stop me! What good is a bleedin' voice of reason if you can't talk sense into anyone? Especially me?"

~~~~~~~~

Nearly two hours later Spike managed to return to the village inn. Being tired, aching, soaking wet and frustrated had not lightened his mood.

Fumbling in his pocket for the keys, he was grateful that at least, he hadn't lost them along with his dignity when he got dumped in the stream.

Unlocking the door he quietly entered the room he shared with Xander. Spike rolled his eyes in disbelief as he stared at the Watcher's sleeping form. Xander was literally sawing logs, his snoring so loud it sounded like a chain saw.

"Way to go, simple git," Spike growled in weary resignation, "even if I had been able to get a call through, you'd have never heard it over all that racket!"

Crossing over to the bathroom, Spike stripped off his boots and wet clothes and left them in a muddy pile on the floor. He longed for a shower, but instead crawled into his bed and pulled the sheet up over himself.

For a moment he considered waking Xander so he wouldn't be shocked to see Spike's bed occupied when he woke up.

"Nah," he mumbled into his pillow, "serves the wanker right! Should have talked me out of going in the first place. Besides, if he'd just remember to keep everyone's cell phones charged up, I could have let him know I was coming back. So, let him be surprised!"

Covering his head to block out Xander's snoring, Spike fell into an exhausted, but troubled slumber.

~~~~~~~~

What remained of the late afternoon sunlight cast eerie shadows on the ivy-covered building that housed Dracula's minion army. All day long the sun had battled the thickening clouds and the air was charged with the threat of a summer storm.

The dreary atmosphere and dense woods surrounding the building made the locale seem even more foreboding. It was no wonder rumors ran rampant about the place. No one dared venture near the area during the day, let alone once the sun had begun to set.

Outside the barracks Victor lurked safely in the shadows, listening to the partying and revelry going on inside. Even though he knew it was unlikely, he still wanted to check the area for any intruders or deserters. Then he would join Elizabeth and they would address the troops.

"Fools," he snickered, enjoying his newly acquired powers. "If they only knew what fate really awaited them all."

Being turned was everything he had hoped it would be and more. "Damn Dracula for keeping this from me!" he spat.

Resentment set in as he thought of all the wasted years he had spent servicing Dracula as his willing and faithful servant. Very soon though, he would be his equal and with the help of Elizabeth and his former master's stolen army, he would make the Dark Prince pay dearly for all the humiliation and deception he had suffered at his hands while under his command.

Merely out of habit he took one last look around before he ducked inside just to be sure he was not being followed. The intoxicating scent of fresh blood overwhelmed him as he entered the room, sending an erotic sensation through his body, urging him to satisfy his lust to feed.

"There will be plenty of time for that later. You are late! Where have you been?" Elizabeth snapped impatiently at her newest fledging, throwing him into the wall.

Before he could answer, she seductively crossed the space between them. Placing her arms around his neck, she pulled him towards her exposing his neck, and licked the recent bite marks.

Startled by the countess's mood swing and amorous advances, he gave into his lust and buried his face in her breasts. His newfound vampire appetites were pushing him towards sensory overload, and Victor found himself giving in to the passions he had rarely experienced in his human life.

Elizabeth leaned back to expose herself even more to his savage kisses. Then just as quickly she laughed and pushed him away once again. "Later," she purred. "Or have you forgotten, we have work to do? Dracula's minions must see our strength! They must be convinced we are the only ones that have the real power and that we intend on sharing it."

Elizabeth pulled away, leaving him standing there, breathing heavily, and trying to regain his composure. His insides churning, he could almost hear the same condescending tones in her voice as he had heard all those years in that of his former master. Silently, he renewed his commitment to himself that he would never again be so easily controlled. That fact in itself helped him to put on his game face and he followed after Elizabeth.

Victor thought back to the events of the morning and how easily Elizabeth had accepted his proposal of a coup.

Gathering his courage he had come to her chambers shortly after Dracula had retired to his own room. At first the countess was furious at his intrusion, but he begged her to hear him out, promising that he could make it worth her while.

by nmcil

Victor proceeded to tell her that after years of serving the count without question, he was angry that he had been continually denied his promise of eternal life. Clearly the countess understood his frustration. She was tired of her husband keeping secrets from her. Now that Dracula intended to share the power he had promised to her with Spike, she was more than open to hearing Victor's plan.

He assured her that he not only knew of the goblet's whereabouts, he also knew about the demon dust and the ritual required to releasing it. If she would grand him the gift of immortality by turning him, he would deliver Dracula's treasures, as well as his army to her, and together they would bring about the Dark Prince's demise.

Victor remembered the cruel smile that she gave him as she accepted his terms, but he had bared his neck and never looked back.

Now, nearly fifteen hours later, Victor stood with the woman who had given him his birth into unlife, prepared to commit treason with her. He should have felt exhilarated by his new alliance and the prospect of sharing invincible power, but the seeds of doubt and distrust were growing. Always the meticulous planner, he had devised an insurance policy of sorts in case his scheme fell apart, but he really hoped he would not need it. Steadying his nerves, he prepared to rally Dracula's troops. Now, more than ever, they must never sense any fear in him, or all would be lost.

After all, he continued to assured himself, Elizabeth can not do this alone! I was the one who brought her the goblet and proposed our alliance. I am the one that Dracula's troops know and trust. She will need me in order to succeed and to capture Spike.

It was not hard to find the minions; they were in the great room of the old building. The noise was deafening. Victor frowned slightly as he thought, It's a good thing fear and rumors keep people away from this place. These fools would never hear an enemy approach with all the shouting and drinking going on.

Personally he did not approve of this raucous celebration. After all there was no victory, not yet! Another thing bothered him as well. Dracula had always been careful to appease the townsfolk. He kept a larder of willing blood donors to feed his troops and never hunted in the surrounding areas. He also demanded absolute devotion and concentration from his troops.

Elizabeth, however was letting the minions satisfy their bloodlust to excess in anticipation of the great surprise she promised to have for them. Soon, between the alcohol and fresh human blood, the situation would spiral out of control. Victor knew they had to get to Spike and fast. They all needed to keep their wits about them. It was only a matter of time before Dracula discovered their mutiny, and would hunt them down.

Elizabeth stopped outside the great room door. Sensing Victor behind her, she took his arm and together they strode into the room as a united front.

It did not take long for the room to quiet down as the minions watched the couple walk into the room as if they owned it. Most of them wondered where Dracula was and others sensed something strange was in the air. But all of them were curious as to what this pair was doing together, let alone here among them. The troops knew Victor was Dracula's second in command, and they respected him, but why was the count's bride at his side?

Elizabeth was quick to make her move and command their attention before she lost it. She pulled the goblet from underneath her cape and held it high above her head so that the whole room could see it. Even Victor stepped back to admire the cup that held the secret to their quest for invincible power. The room had become so quiet that you could have heard a pin drop as everyone stopped and stared.

For several months now, rumors about the goblet and what is represented had circulated throughout Dracula's forces. Everyone in the room had heard about the goblet but no one had ever seen it.

Dracula himself had told them of his plans to raise the most powerful army on earth. He had claimed that if they served him faithfully they would indeed be part of this army, and when the time was right they would all partake in the ritual to give them incredible power. But if that power was Dracula's to give, why was he not here? How had these two managed to take the goblet away from him and what were they planning on doing with it?

The troops focused their concentration on Victor and the countess, as she started to speak.

"I can see this perfect treasure has won your rapt attention. Beautiful! Is it not?" she said, admiring not the beauty the goblet possessed but the power it represented.

Adopting a regal stance she stared purposefully at Dracula's forces as she continued. "I know you are all wondering why Dracula's goblet is in our possession and not your master's. I also know that your master promised you that someday you would share in the power that this cup can bring. What you do not know however, is that the very master who demands your allegiance--has lied to you."

Elizabeth hesitated as the room filled with the sounds of angry protests and murmurs of surprise and disbelief. The countess gave Victor a sly smile and urged him to join in.

"How many times has Dracula lied to you in the past?" She cried passionately. "How many times has he walked all over you and treated you like dirt beneath his feet? How often has he sent you into battle, yet denied you any reward for risking your life? Are these the actions of a ruler who values his army and would share his power with them? I think not! This is a ruler who cares only for his own welfare. One who would withhold his power even from his chosen bride!"

The crowd was becoming even more agitated. They shouted and nodded their agreement. Some even called for revolt. Now Victor stepped up in front of Elizabeth and bared his neck to the crowd. "How many years did Dracula promise to make me his equal but instead kept me his slave until his bride, herself bestowed on me this gift of immortality?"

Victor beamed at Elizabeth. He knew the troops were sympathetic to his cause, and would follow him readily. "You have been faithful to Dracula and he has deceived you! You have been faithful to me and I wish to reward you."

Carefully he continued playing on their emotions. "Our great master intended to share this power not with his devoted followers, but instead with a traitor to our own kind, the vampire with a soul, Spike! Fortunately Elizabeth and I saw through his deception and stole the goblet from him. We will share this power with all of you if you help us complete the blood ceremony needed to release it."

"There is but one small problem. In order to begin, we must have the blood of the very traitor Dracula has claimed as an ally. We must find Spike but he must not be harmed!"

Victor waited once again until the renewed shouting subsided. "For now we need to assemble our plans and avoid Dracula. The university mountain retreat is closer to the village and should give us safe haven. We must go there immediately. Tonight we will take our best fighters and head for Bistritz to capture Spike. Once we have his blood the power shall be ours and we will reward each and every one of you for your faithfulness. This I swear upon my newfound eternal life!"

By now the excitement in the crowd was building to a frenzied pitch. Every one of Dracula's soldiers wanted to be the one to capture Spike. Victor and Elizabeth surveyed the situation with smug satisfaction, and knew they had done their job well. Standing arm in arm they watched the room empty, as the minions headed off through the cover of the dense woods to the retreat.

"Come my love," Elizabeth crooned, "let us celebrate the beginning of a new era, one in which we will rule supreme. Can you believe how easily they were fooled?"

Victor could not help but wonder if that was how Elizabeth actually felt about him. Was that what she meant for him to be--her fool? Angrily he vowed not to fall under her spell. He knew he could maintain control as long as he was the one to drink from that goblet first. But the hard part was still ahead. He was sure that Spike would not surrender willingly. Willing or not Victor plotted to himself, he can still bleed!

Pushing aside his fears, and happy with the response of the troops, he hurried Elizabeth off to the sanctuary of the retreat. They needed to keep the goblet safe and out of Dracula's hands.

~~~~~~~~

Meanwhile, back at his castle Dracula was tearing the place apart room by room, frantically calling for Victor and Elizabeth. His rage had escalated to monumental proportions as each empty room only added to his worst suspicions. "How could this have happened?" He bellowed as he continued his search.

The count had risen earlier than usual that afternoon. Despite the horrendous fight that he had with Elizabeth the previous evening he had decided to try and reconcile with his bride. One more time!

Since Spike had witnessed their fight, Dracula was certain that his credibility with him was damaged beyond repair. But Dracula still needed the souled vampire's blood to complete the power ritual, and now he realized he would have to take it by force.

To be successful he would need help from someone who had indeed proven to be as ruthless as himself. His bride! He decided to finally share his secret with her, show her the goblet and then together they would formulate a plan to capture Spike.

As he started up the stairway to her chambers he was surprised that he had not seen Victor yet this afternoon. He knew that his trusted servant often ran errands in the morning hours, but he was usually there whenever the count needed him.

Reaching Elizabeth's room, he found the door unlocked and his bride missing. Puzzled, he began to search the rest of the floor for her, calling for Victor to help him.

When Victor did not answer, Dracula began searching the rest of the castle. What he found in the small sitting room outside his own chambers forced him to consider that the unthinkable had happened.

The dragon crest on the Tepes Coat of Arms was askew! In panic, Dracula opened the secret compartment behind the crest and found his goblet and the hidden cross containing the demon dust were gone. The air in this room was thick with Victor's scent, and the count could scarcely believe what the evidence screamed out to him.

He had been betrayed, by his wife and the person he least expected! By someone he had confided in, someone who had never disobeyed or questioned his orders, someone who apparently had been spying on him for some time now. Victor!

Still in denial, he continued searching every nook and cranny in the castle, thinking that Elizabeth had perhaps forced Victor to assist her, and that he might find them hiding. But he knew his efforts were in vain. He might as well accept the worst.

On one more desperate hunch, he raced down the underground passage to the barracks that housed his generals, intending to enlist their help in finding the traitors, only to find that they had also deserted him.

Pounding the stonewalls in fury, he knew it was no use looking for the rest of his army. Victor and Elizabeth were far too clever to attempt treason without taking his minions as well. Raising his fists to the air he swore they would all pay dearly for their treachery. "No on can betray me and live!" He cursed. "No one!"

How ironic, he thought as he walked back to the castle's interior, one that serves you so faithfully can turn on you so easily. "Betrayal," he sighed bitterly, "is always more painful when it comes by the hands of those you trust."

by alllie

Throwing himself wearily into the chair in his study he began to formulate a plan. "I am not defeated yet!" He growled in defiance. "They may have the goblet and my army, but they still need Spike." Glancing out the window he pondered the thickening clouds and early darkness. "It will take some time to prepare the troops, but they will go after Spike as soon as night falls. I must get to him before they do!"

~~~~~~~~

It was almost 5 P.M. when Haley and Mena returned to the rooms with dinner. After drawing too much attention and suspicious glances in the village restaurant the night before, The BIG B.A.D.S. decided it would be best to keep a low profile. Spike promised to fill them in on his visit to Castle Dracula, and judging from the frown on his face, that visit must not have been very pleasant, or productive as far as finding the artifact went. With that in mind, they all agreed it would not be wise to discuss the 'Dark Prince' in a public place where, as Spike reminded them, "Every bloody wall has ears."

Xander, Spike and Illyria were watching T.V. in the sitting room of the girl's adjoining suite. Spike yawned and looked up wearily as Haley placed several containers of food on the table and cheerfully called for everyone to, "Come and get it!"

Mena followed behind her chatting excitedly about the regional dishes they had bought. "The locals told us to try the meat stew with veggies, tochitura ghiveci and little grilled sausages called mititei. For dessert we have traditional poppy seed roll, cozanac, and Haley insisted we get a big bottle of plum brandy called tuica to wash it all down with."

Haley blushed a little as she justified her purchase, "Just in case everything turns out to be un-palatable, I thought..."

"I'm sure it will be fine, Haley," Spike interrupted, "any chance you found a butcher's shop?"

"Of course!" she answered, a bit put off by his curt response. "Fresh pig's blood coming right up," she said, handing him a mug. "Lucky for you pork is so popular here."

Spike smiled gratefully at her, but it did not hide his surly mood. His ego and assorted parts of his body still smarted from his undignified dip in the stream and the long walk back to town. Not to mention the fact that he had gotten very little sleep.

Xander had, as predicted, screamed loud enough to literally wake the dead and a few of the inn's residents as well, when he discovered somebody sleeping in Spikey's bed, where no one should have been. His shouts brought the girls running to the room and soon they were all pressing Spike to explain his sudden reappearance. The vamp begged off, telling them that he really needed to sleep, and that he'd tell them everything that evening.

So now, here Spike sat, watching his team devour regional cuisine and fielding a barrage of endless questions.

"What happened last night? Did you get into a fight or something? How about the goblet? Did you see it? Why did you decide to come back last night...and how'd you get here? How come you didn't call?"

"Whoa now. Hang on, one at a time," Spike pleaded. "I know you want all the gory details, but lets start with the cliff notes version, all right? Long story short, everything after the carriage ride turned bloody bizarre. Thing is, I should have figured the sneaky bastard was up to something."

"Why do you say that?" Haley asked.

"As soon as we reached the castle, Drac told me he has a special guest he wants me to meet. Then the blighter left me all by my lonesome for nearly an hour. Thought I'd poke a round a bit, see if I could spot the unholy grail, so to speak, but the longer I waited the more I started to think that maybe it wasn't such a good idea coming out there alone. Figured I'd try to call for backup, but couldn't get a connection. Blasted phone wouldn't work!"

"That's odd," Haley frowned, picking up Spike's phone," these units are brand new. Did you try again?"

"Didn't get the chance. Next thing I knew, Drac returned with his special guest. The poncey Prince had a wife!"

"Gahhhhh!" Xander shuddered. "Was she anything like in the movie, Brides of Dracula?"

Spike looked at Xander in disbelief and rolled his eyes impatiently. "Of course not, Nimrod!" he snarled. "She was worse!"

He waited a moment for the Watcher's shocked expression to fade and then continued. "Seems the Count had taken this particularly nasty bird, Elizabeth Bathory, as his queen. Got a bit more than he bargained for too, I'd say."

"Elizabeth Bathory!" Haley gasped. "The Blood Countess! Are you certain it was her Spike? I mean--she died centuries ago."

"Oh it was her all right. In the flesh!" Spike confirmed. "Or at least, reanimated flesh. The Ponce's sniveling right hand minion, Victor was there too, but didn't look too happy about it. Dracula treated him more like a servant instead of his second in command, and as for the count and his new bride. Well, lets just say I didn't see too much marital bliss."

"Anyway," Spike chuckled, "after a few hours of watching the newlyweds snipe at each other, I decided I had probably worn out my welcome. Besides, Elizabeth, or excuse me, the Countess, and I had developed a mutual dislike for each other, so I thought it was best if I took my leave. Sooooo...I lied and told Drac you guys were on the way to pick me up, right? But, as I'm heading for the door, the Legend dropped the bloody bomb on me!"

"Huh? What bomb?" Mena asked in confusion. The others looked puzzled too.

"Okay, this is where things really got bloody strange, so don't say I didn't warn you." Spike warned, watching his friends as they leaned forward in rapt attention.

"Drac started talking about his vision for a new world order, some grand plan he wanted me to be a part of. Seems he intended to raise an unstoppable army and he wanted me as the general to lead them."

Spike stopped for a moment as murmurs of disbelief and then laughter filled the room. "I know, I know," he grinned, "but the poor sod was serious! Claimed he had in his possession the recipe for a super power elixir. That would include his goblet, some ancient demon's dusty remains, and some ritual mumbo jumbo. He just needed one more thing to complete the cocktail, the blood of a demon who regained his soul. And that would be...you guessed it...ME!"

Spike looked around the room at his teammate's gaping fish mouth expressions.

"Wait just one minute now," Xander sputtered, "did you...did I hear you say that Dracula wanted to drink your blood?"

"Well yeah, pretty much! Not from the tap of course," the vamp laughed. "Trust me, that poncey bastard isn't coming anywhere near my neck!. He wanted to drink my blood from his special cup as part of the power potion. Then he claimed he wanted to share this power with his bride and myself. We would all become invincible. Right! I've heard that tune before!"

Illyria had been silent for most of the conversation, but now expressed an angry opinion. "The arrogance of this Dracula, fuels my rage. How dare he make such demands of you? I will render him limb from limb if he attempts to harm you."

Spike patted her arm soothingly. "Easy Blue, I appreciate your concern, but Drac wanted a willing partner in his crazy scheme. Thought he could seduce me back to the dark side."

"But this is preposterous, Spike!" Haley fretted. "He wouldn't dare try to...I mean you would never agree to such a thing...would you?"

"Of course not! But since he mentioned the goblet, I figured with our luck it would be the very one we needed as the artifact. I thought that if I played along like I was giving his offer some consideration, he might show me where it was. Almost had him there too, but then...all hell broke loose!"

"Oh no!" Mena whimpered. "Did he do anything to you Spike?"

"No, pet, don't worry. He was too busy defending himself. Apparently Elizabeth didn't appreciate her husband's idea of sharing his secret with yours truly first. She started her own little World War III with the Count and that's when I got the bloody hell out of there! Didn't want to take the chance of bleeding anywhere near those two!"

"Jesus Spike," Xander cried," why didn't you try to call again? We could have met you somewhere along the road to Bistritz or wherever..."

"Told you Harris, I tried but the damn phone was useless. I had to improvise."

Taking Spike's phone from Haley, Xander examined it closely. After a minute though, he looked at the vamp in smug amusement. "You know, smart guy, these things usually work better when the batteries are charged up."

"Yeah? Well,"Spike blushed as everyone looked at him, "what's the difference? Technically it still didn't work, so I had to figure a way back to town on my own."

"Okay then MacGyver, just how did you get back? You couldn't call Transylvania Taxi, so did you hot wire the Vampmobile?"

"Hardly", Spike grumbled, "Big ponce doesn't have car. Sticks to the old ways remember? So, I took a horse, and trust me, it was no easy feat!"

"You mean you took a hearse, right?" Xander giggled.

"Oh, ha ha Harris. Very funny, you're such a comedian. I said horse as in H.O.R.S.E. Got it?"

"Wait," Haley asked in amazement, "you took Dracula's horse without even asking? That's stealing Spike!"

"Hello! Pot calling the Kettle black here? If I remember correctly you recently added petty larceny to your resume." Spike looked pointedly at Haley as her face turned bright red. "Besides, I didn't think we were planning on just asking Drac nicely for his cup. Right?"

"Well no, perhaps not, but th...this is different," she stammered. "Some thefts are neccessary in the interest of the mission, but blatantly taking a horse is not!"

"Look, it's more like I borrowed it really, and what's the big deal anyway? That wanker owes me! Besides I told you he was too busy fending off that shrew he married for me to ask permission!"

"It's still stolen property, Spike and laws are harsh here." Haley tried to remind him.

"Oh for pity's sake, not if I don't still have it. Right?"

"What do you mean?" Both Mena and Haley inquired at once. "Where is the poor horse now?"

Spike tried to avoid eye contact as he hedged his answer. "I uhhh, well...I had it until we came to this stream see...and then me and the nasty brute sort of had an unexpected parting of the ways."

"Haley tried to stifle a giggle, but failed. "Oh my God, you got tossed didn't you?"

"What? No! No way! Well, okay, maybe." Spike tried vainly to defend his pride, but failed too, as everyone else started to snicker.

"So that would explain the pile of muddy wet clothes on the bathroom floor." Xander replied casually.

"Bloody brilliant deduction Einstein!" Spike snapped angrily. "Tripped over them too I hope!"

"Not many self respecting Brits get thrown Spike...," Haley continued to tease.

"The hell! That prat Prince Charles does it all the time. Besides, this horse was out to get me from the start!"

Now Mena joined the fun. "As grumpy as you've been lately you probably were yelling too much and scared him."

"Think I'm grumpy now do you?"

"I concur with the young Slayer." Illyria chimed in thoughtfully. "In my world we had dominion over the beasts, but sought to commune with them. Perhaps if you had tried to connect to the creature's inner essence..."

"Good Lord, Blue, I was looking for a quick ride back to town, not a life long relationship!"

Spike looked at his gleeful comrades in exasperation. "What the bloody hell is wrong with the lot of you? Whose side are you on anyway? I think we've got a lot more to worry about than whether I pick up my dirty laundry, play Dr. Do Little, or may end up in the Big House for nicking the Ponce's pony. You did hear what I said about Drac and his whole dominate-the-world scheme. Right? Not to mention the needing my blood part. The count has the goblet and we need to get it. Remember? So, any ideas?"

Spike was met by silence and blank stares all around.

"Blue," he sighed in frustration, "you're the one who listens to the green and communes with everything else on the planet. Think you could tune into the vibes from a gold cup, or sniff out some ancient demon dust?"

Spike looked at her hopefully but she only gave him her curious head tilt.

"Okay then," he tried again, "could you maybe just do that wonky time shift thing of yours? Freeze Drac and his bride in their tracks long enough for us to search the castle?"

"Illyria pondered carefully before answering, "My time altering ability is temporary and unpredictable at best. While I may be able to sense the articles you desire to find I feel it will be far more efficient and satisfying to determine their whereabouts through torture and mayhem."

Spike chuckled as he thought of Dracula and his bride at the mercy of Illyria's interrogation techniques. "Hold that thought, Highness," he smiled, "you may just get your wish."

Their discussion was cut short suddenly, by persistent pounding at the door and the appearance of an unexpected visitor. Before Mena could open the door fully, Dracula strode purposefully into the room, headed for Spike.

His expression was solemn but fierce and for a moment Spike was apprehensive. The rest of the team moved rapidly to surround him, thinking that Dracula had indeed come to collect Spike's blood.

Mustering every bit of courage he had, and praying that his voice would not crack, Xander stepped forward to challenge the count. "Whoa there bucko! Don't you need some kind of an invite before just barging into a room?"

Dracula stopped in his tracks, and directed his murderous gaze at Xander."Boy," he hissed cruelly as Xander retreated back beside Spike, "I will forgive your insolent behavior as your are ignorant of our ways. Every thing and every place in this village belongs to me. I come and go as I please and require NO invitation. You would be wise to remember this, should we meet again."

The count then turned his attention back to Spike, who waved the others off and confronted him head on. He thought he better try to diffuse the tension a bit. "Look old man," he shrugged, "if you've come here to bitch at me for taking the horse lets just consider it a little advance towards settling up on your debt."

For a moment Dracula was caught off guard. "You took my horse?" he asked in surprise. "If so, why did I find him wandering loose in the pasture fully saddled?"

Spike shuffled his feet and glared angrily at his teammates as they tried to suppress their giggles. "I uhh...only needed him to go about half way, so I thought I should well...send him home. Figured he knew the way."

The count smiled knowingly, "I see, but you could have taken him all the way to Bistritz, Spike. The villagers would have returned him to me in the morning."

By this time Haley and Mena were staring expectantly at him so Spike decided to give up the charade. "All right, all right," he grumbled, "lets just say that the bloody beast took me as far as he wanted to go, then went home himself!"

"Ahhh yes", Dracula laughed softly, "Diavol can be quite a challenging mount. He is extremely rebellious and unpredictable. Much like a certain vampire I know."

"Yeah, well don't expect I'll be changing my ways any time soon, so if came here still hoping to enlist me in your grand plans...forget it."

The count's smile faded rapidly, "That is indeed a shame Spike, because whether you choose to or not, we need to talk seriously about that very subject!"

"Look," Spike sighed in frustration, "I'm just not interested in your offer. I've talked it over with my team and they're not interested either. Hell, judging from the effect this whole thing has had on your marriage, I'd think you'd be wise to give it up and smooth things over with the missus."

"Elizabeth and I are no longer together!" Dracula announced quietly.

"Sorry old man, but I can't really say as I'm surprised." Spike offered.

Turning away from Spike, the count settled himself in the nearest chair. He looked preoccupied and very weary. "It is worse than that I am afraid," he replied angrily. "My beloved bride has betrayed me with none other that my most trusted servant, Victor!"

Spike nearly laughed out loud at that revelation, but sensing the growing apprehension among his friends, he tried to keep the mood light. "Boy, guess it really is hard to find good help these days," he joked.

Dracula however was not amused. His eyes flashed with anger as he rose from the chair and grabbed Spike's arm. "This is no laughing matter Spike! Do you not see what this means?"

by nmcil

Out of the corner of his eye Spike saw Illyria make a move to confront Dracula, but he shook his head telling her to stop. He pulled out of Dracula's grasp as the count continued.

"Elizabeth and Victor are more than traitors. They are now my mortal enemies! Soon they will be yours as well! They have stolen my goblet and the vial of demon dust. All they need now is you