All disclaimers apply. I own nothing except the Reverend Mr. Luke Cross. Apologies to all Cousins, but it's all Heather's fault for suggesting the idea. This is to be considered a sequel to 'Road Trip. May I have permission to Archive? Please send all comments to ejdeal@sga.quik.com Honeymoon Horror By Elise 'And by the power invested in me by the city of Toronto, the government of Canada, and our Almighty and everlasting God, I now pronounce you husband and wife. A total hush fell over the candlelit crowd in the wake of the priest's words. 'You may now kiss the bride. Nick's hands trembled as he lifted the veil covering his bride's smiling face. A myriad of feelings overwhelmed his senses. The roses, heavy with perfume, were in full bloom. The freshly cut grass was tangy smelling and spongy under his feet. He could hear the dripping of hot wax from the one hundred green candles that held back the inky night and graced this garden with their warm glow. Green and white, those were their colors, his and Natalie's. Green, the color of spring, of rebirth, promises for a second chance. It was the color of her eyes and the emerald rind - his ring - she wore. Together they had chosen this color to symbolize their faith in a future together, and they had chosen this place and time, sunset in a garden of spring roses, to show the world their love. Whatever the future now held, they would face it together. Tenderly, he took Natalie into his arms and kissed her. * * * * * * * * 'Where are they headed for the honeymoon? Captain Amanda Cohen asked. Don Schanke had been pleasantly surprised to see his captain at Nick and Natalie's wedding like this. He knew that she had been invited, and he knew that she was going to attend, but he never expected her to be so, well, so sociable. She actually seemed human - especially in that turquoise blue dress. Wow! What a knock out! Schanke shook his head. Maybe he had had too much to drink. Myra had said so, but this was Nick's wedding reception! 'Well, he answered easily, 'Nick's long-lost Cousin or Uncle or whoever he is. Schanke paused to take another drink. 'That Night Crawler guy. He shivered involuntarily. 'He's paid for all three of them to go to London so Natalie can meet the family. 'All three of them? queried Cohen. She lifted an eyebrow and turned discretely to eye the imposing figure standing far to the back of the reception hall. Everyone, including Nick, had always thought Knight was an orphan so it had come as a shock to them all when Mr. LaCroix had come forward to claim him. The tall man had all the correct documents to prove that their Nick was actually Nicholas De Brabant, his nephew, and heir to a vast fortune. 'Did you say Nick was taking Natalie to London to meet his family for a honeymoon? Grace squeaked out. She was desperately trying to get a stain out of her lovely green taffeta bridesmaid dress. She come to the bar seeking some soda water. 'Apparently so, stated Cohen dryly. She turned back to them with a smile. 'Nick's uncle is quiet a handsome man, but I'm sure Natalie would rather not spend her honeymoon with him. 'He's going to London with them? Grace dropped the hem of her dress and stared at Cohen. 'Not exactly, Schanke muttered as he gulped another mouthful. His eyes gleamed wickedly. 'Don Schanke, Grace said. She smiled in reflex and punched his arm. 'What did you do? 'Well, he stated as he reared back against the bar. 'I had me a little talk with the old Creepy Crawler. Clearly impressed, Cohen asked, 'Did you get him to change his mind about going? 'Not a chance, Schanke admitted with a frown. 'I paid for the tickets, and I intend to go. His imitation of LaCroix was perfect. 'Nicholas and Natalie need not know. Schanke shook his head and downed another shot. 'I mean, man, that guy is spooky. Cohen inhaled loudly. It was just as she'd thought. 'So, you didn't do any good, she stated bluntly. 'Oh, I wouldn't say that, Schanke laughed and tossed three first class tickets onto the bar. Grace reached for them, and her face darkened with confusion. 'I don't understand, she admitted. 'These tickets are for Bermuda. 'That's right, Schanke smiled smugly. 'Just how did you get these tickets, Detective? Cohen suddenly demanded. 'What? Do you think I stole 'em? He shook his head. 'No sir, as the best man, I am entrusted with the job of holding on to these until we take the beautiful bride and her eager groom - and Uncle Buck there - to the airport. 'I know that, Schanke, Cohen began. 'See. His eyes glinted with mischief. 'I figured if poor Nat had to be stuck with Nick's batty Uncle, the least I could do for her was to see that she wouldn't be stranded with the whole colony of them. So I traded in the London tickets for ones to Bermuda! Schanke grinned like a fool. 'You didn't! Grace laughed. 'Schanke! Cohen gasped. * * * * * 'Delta flight 127 now boarding at gate 53. The loudspeaker interrupted the party that had followed Nick De Brabant and his bride to the airport. 'Schanke, Nick called, 'is that us? 'Sure is, partner, grinned Don Schanke. 'We'll take care of your boarding passes and all that. You just get Natalie tucked in, okay? Schanke's gesture took in the crowd of well-wishers. He stuffed two tickets into Nick's carry-on bag. 'That sounds good to me, Natalie agreed. Her kiss stopped any remarks Nick may have made, and the two of them, arms linked, strolled forward onto the plane, oblivious to the cheers and cat-calls around them. Schanke bravely stepped in front of Nick's supposed uncle. 'So, uh, Mr. LaCroix, Schanke began, 'you're not really going with them, are you? LaCroix turned his piercing blue eyes on Don Schanke as if the detective were an insect, and insect he'd like to squash. Without a word, the master vampire turned to follow Nick and Natalie aboard the aircraft. ' 'sokay, Schanke muttered half to himself. 'Well, have a nice trip. I'll check you in too. Schanke handed LaCroix a ticket, which he carefully tucked inside his jacket pocket. * * * * * Although the first class seats were large and comfortable, Nick and Natalie were practically sharing a seat. As the other passengers boarded, the couple was showered with approving smiles and kind remarks. Of course, there were two old ladies who totally disapproved of such a public display of affection. Preparations for the flight continued, as the crew and passengers stored various items away and settled in for the long trip. Soon, however, the craft taxied forward and poised itself ready for take-off. At that precise moment, Nick felt a feather light touch on his shoulder. Looking up swiftly, he was horrified to see his master smiling coolly at him. 'Oh, my, quipped LaCroix, 'you certainly seem preoccupied. You were not even cognizant of my presence. 'LaCroix, Nick gasped. 'What are you doing here? Why can't you just let me be happy? 'I thought I would join you on your trip, he told them glibly. 'Your honeymoon, he corrected himself. 'You know, Nicholas, you killed your first wife trying to bring her over so I thought I would assist you this time. LaCroix held out a hand as if to offer help. 'You do not wish to lose Natalie, do you? 'What first wife? Natalie nearly shouted. 'You didn't tell me anything about a first wife! 'This is your captain, the loudspeaker crackled to life. 'I'd like to welcome you aboard Delta flight 127 to Bermuda. We'll have a short lay-over in Atlanta. Thank you for flying Delta. 'Bermuda? Nick, Natalie, and LaCroix gasped in perfect unison. 'Sir, you'll gave to sit down for take-off, the stewardess told LaCroix. 'We're supposed to be on our way to our honeymoon in London, Nick told the stewardess. He scrambled to his feet and began digging through his carry-on bag for the tickets. 'Let me see your tickets, Sir. Nick promptly produced his and Natalie's tickets. LaCroix held out his own as well. 'I'm sorry, gentlemen. These tickets are for Bermuda by way of Atlanta. She handed each of them back his own ticket. 'That's fine with me, Natalie commented as she tried to push past Nick and LaCroix who along with the stewardess were blocking the aisle. 'Sunny Bermuda sounds like the perfect place right about now. 'You'll all have to be seated for take-off. Your tickets are for Bermuda, but we will be stopping over in Atlanta. You can get off there if you'd like. There's nothing more I can do. Natalie dropped back into her seat and stared out her window at the fascinating blackness of the runway. Nick took a deep breath and sat down gingerly beside her. 'Of course, my dear, you are correct, LaCroix told the young woman politely. He did not know precisely how his plans had been set askew, but he was quite sure a certain Detective Donald G. Schanke had a hand in it. LaCroix smiled at his seat partner, a large, ruddy faced fellow, as he anticipated exactly how he would avenge himself on Nicholas' partner. 'Natalie, love. Nick spoke softly, but LaCroix's extra sensitive hearing picked up his voice. 'Why didn't you tell me you were married before? the bride demanded. 'And what was it LaCroix said? You killed her on your wedding night? 'Nat.... LaCroix chuckled. At least if he would be able to hear Nicholas and his bride arguing. The boy's explanation should keep him entertained for a while. Suddenly a meaty hand was thrust at him. The master vampire's eyes surveyed the hand and traveled up the length of the arm to see it led to his rotund seat partner. Out of shear politeness and good humor, LaCroix took the proffered hand and shook it quickly. 'Good evenin' to ya, the red-faced fellow called out gleefully. He pumped LaCroix's arm mightily before turning it loose. 'I'm Reverend Luke Cross of the First Congregational Holy Deliverance Church of Jasper, Georgia. He sighed and settled himself back until the chair squeaked in protest. 'I'm on my way back from a conference on the miraculous healing powers invested by God in some of his poor followers. 'It was over six hundred years ago, Nat, Nick implored. 'And, yes, I do love you more than Alissa. In retrospect I can see that I didn't love her so much as I loved the way she made me feel - omnipotent. She worshipped me as her lord, her master, her husband.... Somehow LaCroix was taking less delight in Nicholas' predicament. 'It was quite an interesting debate, I must say, Reverend Cross told his seat partner. 'What are your thoughts, sir, if I may ask, on the laying on of hands for the purposes of curing the sick? 'Well, I've read Elmer Gantry, the master vampire sneered. Natalie had stopped crying now. Nick held her tenderly. 'Oh, Natalie, you are everything she was not. Alissa was a child, but you are a woman. She had been trained since birth that a man's word was law. You, he paused to stroke her cheek, 'have a brilliant mind and keep me on my toes. Alissa was naïve. She had no idea of what I was asking of her. Yet out of love, you come to me of your own free will, knowing full well what I am. There were no more words from up front, and LaCroix could hear the sound of wet kisses. Nick took a deep breath 'Alissa was a beautiful, young virgin, Natalie, while you... Whack! For once the ultra predator was surprised but a movement faster that he could predict. The outline of Natalie's hand showed a vivid read against the stark whiteness of Nick's cheek. 'Am what? she shouted and bolted to her feet. 'An ugly old slut? 'I'm sorry. I didn't seem to catch your name, the Reverend asked in his Mr.Haney-like voice. LaCroix stared at the fellow. How dare he interrupt when Nicholas and Natalie were just beginning round two. Already he'd made the mistake of shaking his hand and starting a verbal avalanche. He would not compound that mistake by gifting the lout with his name as well, especially now that Natalie had bolted from the seat. Nick stood and cried out at her retreating form, 'Natalie! He glared at his master, who sat smirking behind them. 'His name is Lucien LaCroix. He is from Rome, and he is one of the biggest sinners I know. Nick coldly told the minister, then he swiftly vanished up the aisle in search of his bride. 'Lucy-Ann Luh Cwawh, the preacher tried out the name, rolling the syllable around on his pink tongue. LaCroix glared at the back of Nicholas' seat. Distracted by the babble of this oaf who sat next to him, the General had forgotten that Nicholas, too, had sensitive hearing. 'So, Lucy-Ann, you're from Rome? Don't suppose that's Rome, Georgia? He guffawed at his own little joke. Calmly, Lucien LaCroix surveyed the first class passenger section assessing how difficult it would be to drain this bore here and now. Unfortunately, the seating area was packed and all passengers were awake and awaiting their dinner. * * * * * Nick reached the restroom in time to see the swirl of a dark skirt vanish inside. He leaned against the door hearing a single heartbeat. It had a light, rapid staccato beat. She must be weeping. 'I love you, he called through the door. 'Please just listen, he begged. 'Keep on talking, son, an older man advised him. The gentleman patted Nick on the shoulder and sat in a seat next to the restroom. 'She's not going anywhere now. A captive audience is what you've got. Make her listen, he offered. Nick nodded unsteadily and turned back to the door. 'Love, I was wrong, terribly wrong. I should have told you, but... Nick stopped and looked at the little old man who sat soaking up all of this. The fellow mouthed the words, 'Tell her, and made little shooing gestures. 'Alissa died on our wedding night, Nick told the door. 'That's one of the reasons I've held myself back from you. I have loved you for so long. He broke off. 'I love you. I need you. I can't go on without you, he whispered through the door. Miraculously, the door moved and slowly opened. As Nick took a step backward, his foot caught the strap of a carry-on bag and he tumbled backward into the lap of his elderly cohort. Both the older man and Nick gasped in surprise as the occupant emerged. It was not Natalie, but a little old lady who appeared to be somewhere between seventy and death. Her lips were drawn up like two prunes as she gave Nick a shocked expression. Snatching her purse up to her chin, she declared, 'Well, I never! Then she stormed away. Sheepishly, Nick climbed out of the old man's lap and offered that ma an apology. * * * * * All disclaimers apply. I own nothing except the Reverend Mr. Luke Cross. Apologies to all Cousins, but it's all Heather's fault for suggesting the idea. This is to be considered a sequel to 'Road Trip. May I have permission to Archive? Please send all comments to ejdeal@sga.quik.com Honeymoon Horror, Part Two By Elise 'So, Lucy-Ann, your pal there says you're from Rome. Are you Catholic? 'No, I am not, LaCroix replied tersely. 'But you have, the imperturbable minister continued, 'accepted eternal life through the blood, haven't you? For the first time in two millennia, the General's jaw dropped. 'What did you say? he whispered. 'You have asked for and received salvation and eternal life through the blood of Jesus Christ, haven't you? Had Lucien LaCroix been a lesser man he would have collapsed with relief. As it were, he merely allowed himself to recline in the seat. 'Not exactly. LaCroix muttered. He felt uneasy with this odd man. Reverend Cross smiled and nodded sagely. 'You're a fence sitter. 'A what? LaCroix asked brightly. Until Nicholas and Natalie returned, he would bait this fellow and perhaps even help him shed his antiquated faith. He smiled at the prospect. The minister continued. 'Someone who knows the difference between right and wrong. Someone who'd prefer to do what's right, but since wrong is easier, he chooses the coward's way out. Coward? The general bristled. 'My dear, sir, I can assure you that I am no coward. He crossed his legs. 'In fact, there is nothing on this earth that I fear. 'Well, Lucy-Ann, that's your problem right there. LaCroix's eyes narrowed until they resembled twin laser beams. 'Excuse me, he demanded. 'There's more to this existence than what we can behold in this world. You may not fear what this world can hold, but what about the next world? Or the next? The minister stared meaningfully at LaCroix. 'There are two forces, good and evil, and we must choose between them. That's called free will. 'I am aware of the doctrine. The words were dripping icicles. 'Then which do you choose? Whose side are you working for? 'I serve myself. Reverend Cross chuckled. 'Not so, my friend. You're either saved by the blood or you die by it. * * * * * 'Natalie? Nick called out to the restroom door. With the help of his elderly friend, he'd tracked her down. Two little old ladies, one of whom Nick had declared his love for earlier, sat nearby. 'That's him, Louise, she told her companion. 'He's the one who made a pass at me. 'Just like a man, isn't it? Louise answered. 'Are you sure you don't want to report him, Sylvia? 'No, Louise, Sylvia whispered. 'It would embarrass me. Louise snorted loudly. 'Men! They only want to get into your pocketbook or your panties! Both women pulled their purses into their laps and glared at Nick. Nick was embarrassed. 'Oh, don't worry about those old pea-hens, his new friend told him. 'I'll take care of them. Carefully, the old man slicked back his hair and moved in on the unsuspecting ladies. 'Natalie? he softly called again. This time he was relieved to hear Nat's voice. 'What? 'Please come out. 'Why? 'So I can explain. Please. He hesitated. 'If you hate me and want to annul the marriage, I'll understand. Just please give me a chance. He got no answer, not a sound. 'You can't stay in there all night. As if by magic the door opened. Natalie stood there dry eyed, but her face and eyes were puffy. She had wrapped her arms tightly around herself. Nick smiled and reached out to touch her, but he let his hand drop. He wouldn't touch her until she said so, not until they were both safely settled in their seats again. * * * * * Lucien LaCroix put on an expression of mock fear. 'Are you threatening me? Because I will call the captain of this craft and make a complaint against you, he told the man. He intended to irritate this good man or at least shut him up now that Nick and Natalie were returning. 'Not exactly, the beefy reverend admitted. He winked at LaCroix as he used the General's own words against him. 'But I've suddenly felt that the good Lord has laid it on my heart to save you. 'I do not believe that I am in need of saving, and if I were to be in such need, I doubt you could do little to aid me. LaCroix had just about reached the end of his patience. 'Oh ye of little faith, Cross smiled serenely. 'Nat, I should have told you about Alissa. I was wrong. Please let me explain. 'You've already explained about her, Nick. I do understand, really. It's just I am so insecure where you are concerned. He looked at her in amazement. 'You? Insecure? Natalie, you're the most confident person I know! He reached for her hands. 'You're intelligent and beautiful. You know what you want, and you go out and get it. I wish I was as sure of myself as you are. 'I meant about you and other women. 'Oh, he answered softly. 'Nick, as your doctor and friend, I had to stand by and watch while you fell half in love with nearly every mortal woman you met. 'That's not so, Natalie. I've only seriously loved two mortal women in my life, Alissa and you. 'Every time you went to Janette for sex, she lowered her voice, 'it nearly killed me. I didn't want to, but I understood. You have needs that I wasn't able to fulfill. It was the same with me and Randy. He dropped her hands. 'Who the hell is Randy? LaCroix smiled. He'd seen and heard Nicholas and Natalie returning. It appeared as if round three were beginning. 'No one that I know is in need of curing, LaCroix stated. He smirked at the nice man. 'Except perhaps poor Nicholas' relationship with his lovely wife. The minister frowned and nodded. 'They do seem to be arguing a tad bit. Been married long? So this weak mortal was aware of their spat. Probably the entire aircraft knew of it. He'd really have to teach Natalie better manners when Nicholas brought her over. Teaching Nicholas was hopeless. He had tried. 'On, no, LaCroix smiled brightly. He was rather pleased with the turn the conversation had taken. He was tired of the Praise the Lord Club. 'Just married tonight. Perhaps you could save their marriage. 'Yes, I might could, the man stated. 'I usually require couples to go through a few counseling sessions before I marry them. He stopped and eyed LaCroix critically. 'Of course, that depends on them, you know. Natalie blinked. 'Randy Montgomery from traffic. She swallowed as she noted the tiny red flecks in Nick's eyes. 'I thought you knew, she whispered. 'I. Did. Not. Know, he raged. Then he reclaimed control of himself and lowered his voice. 'You mean, you have been having sex with this Randy? 'Sometimes, she admitted. The red flecks in his eyes grew larger. She grew angry. 'It's not like you weren't doing the same thing with Janette. 'That doesn't make it right, he retorted. 'No, it doesn't, does it? she fired back. Both of them say sullenly, staring at nothing and saying nothing as well. Natalie knew he'd never give in first so she heaved a sigh before speaking. 'Nick, can't you just... 'I forgive you, Natalie, but I don't like it, not at all, he warned her. 'I do understand, though. He gritted his teeth. Under his breath, he added, 'So that's what Montgomery meant when he told me to be sure and take my vitamins. 'He told you what? Natalie shrieked. 'Oh, just wait till I tell his girlfriend. Nick looked at her and nodded. The red flecks were back in his eyes. 'Excuse me, the flight attendant murmured. She was clearly embarrassed to have overheard and interrupted. 'What will you be having for dinner, the chicken or the steak? Natalie was equally red-faced. There was no telling what the woman had heard. 'I'll have the steak, she muttered. 'Nothing for me, Nick told her. He picked up his carry-on bag and headed for the restroom to have his own dinner. 'What do you mean, Sir? LaCroix asked the man. He was instantly suspicious. 'Well, faith healing requires just that. Faith. And love, of course, but it seems they have that, he answered. 'I am one of the few who have been granted the power to heal with a touch. Praise the Lord! 'Your dinner, Gentlemen? The flight attendant stood waiting for them. 'Steak or chicken? 'Chicken, the minister chuckled. 'My wife says I have to watch my fat intake. Cheerfully, he lowered his tray and rubbed his hands in anticipation as the woman set his dinner in place. 'Nothing for me, thank you, LaCroix muttered. The young woman moved on to the next row of seats. Suddenly a sickening odor assaulted him. He all but gagged from the stench. 'Uh-umm, Luke Cross uttered, 'garlic chicken in white wine sauce. He smacked his lips. Then he closed his eyes and folded his hands. 'Our Father, who art in heaven... Nick returned to his seat just as the flight attendant took away Natalie's tray. First, he set the carry- on bag beneath the seat. Sitting down beside her, he was unsure of exactly how they stood. Tentatively, he took her hand. 'Natalie, I love you. 'Oh, I love you, too, Nick, she blurted out. 'Do you still want to... Gingerly, he nodded and lowered his voice. 'Of course, I want to stay married. I want to be here for you for as long as you'll have me. Tears sparkled in her eyes as Natalie took his hands and pressed them to her breast. 'Nick, I love you and want you with me forever. You are the missing half of my soul. 'Oh, no, Natalie, you ARE my very soul. The two lovers then showered each other with more tender words and loving kisses. All the lovey-dovey mush was making LaCroix ill, really physically sick to his stomach. At least that's what he thought it was until the parson spoke. 'I surely Hhate to Hhave you miss a meal, Cross told LaCroix companionably. The stewardess removed the empty tray. 'Hhow come you don't cHhose not to eat? It seemed to LaCroix that the man was purposefully choosing words with an aspirant sound in order to bombard him with his garlic-laden breath. He wanted to escape to the rest facilities; however, he had to bide his time until he could get past the man. 'I, uh, have a special diet, LaCroix stalled for time. 'Oh, you mean something like a diabetic? 'Something like that, the master vampire muttered. 'Excuse me, I do not feel so well. This was, at the moment with the thick garlic aroma surrounding him, the truth. Lucien LaCroix stood somewhat unsteadily and carried his bag to the restroom in order to dine in peace. All disclaimers apply. I own nothing except the Reverend Mr. Luke Cross. Apologies to all Cousins, but it's all Heather's fault for suggesting the idea. This is to be considered a sequel to 'Road Trip. May I have permission to Archive? Please send all comments to ejdeal@sga.quik.com Honeymoon Horror, Part Three By Elise The reverend was snoring softly as LaCroix squeezed past him. The master vampire gave his seating companion a vicious glare before settling in the seat beside him. He would really like to drink the man dry, but with all the garlic the toad had ingested, it would most likely put him into a coma. At first he considered finishing a novel he had recently began - that Anne Rice was proving to be quite an amusing author - but then he heard whispered exchanges from in front of him. Nicholas and Natalie were having another discussion. With any luck, another fight was about to begin. 'Natalie, LaCroix's son said, 'you know I told you that in my time it was customary for the bride and groom to exchange gifts. Natalie smile broadly. For days she had been waiting for this moment. 'I know. Her eyes twinkled. Boy, did she have a surprise for Nick. 'I think, Nick paused to reach into his carry on bag, 'now would be a good time for me to give you your gift. In his hands he held a small box. It was the size and shape of a jewelry box and was gaily wrapped. Nick pressed it into Natalie's hands. 'I wanted to gibe it to you at sunrise, he told her, watching her unwrap the box. 'Just before I brought you across. Natalie froze and looked up at him. Her eyes sparkled and a sneaky grin spread across her face. 'Maybe you won't have to, she answered. The quickly the lid was lifted, and before a puzzled Nick could ask what she meant, Natalie cried out in joy. 'Oh, Nick! Earrings, emerald to match he engagement ring, sparkled and glittered in the box. 'They're beautiful, Natalie told him. 'My hands are shaking. Help me put them on. Deftly, Nick helped Natalie don the earrings. He told her, 'Along with the ring, they were part of a set which belonged to my mother. You'll get the necklace on our one hundredth anniversary. 'Or when I give you a baby, she suggested. Natalie toss her head at Nick and set the earrings tinkling. A shadow passed across Nick's face. 'Of course, Nat, he answered sadly, 'if your think we can find a cure before then. Natalie held up her right index finger and lay it against his lips to silence him. Then with a quick movement, she grabbed her purse from beside her seat and reached into it. 'Happy wedding day, Nick, she whispered and handed him a hypodermic syringe. It was filled with a clear viscous liquid. Nick frowned in puzzlement. 'What's this? 'The cure. LaCroix, who had been eavesdropping, sat bolt upright. Nick held the syringe in his trembling hands, 'Are you sure? His voice was raspy. Natalie nodded. 'The day after I hit my head and had that concussion, I woke up with the idea for an inoculation using dead vampire virus cells. She took the hypodermic from him. 'I've been working on it ever since and keeping my notes. 'Nat! he hissed. His voice was urgent as he grabbed her hands. 'There are those who wouldn't take kindly to your research. He paused to flick a frightened glance behind him where LaCroix sat. 'It's okay, Nick, she smiled. 'There is only one vaccine, she held up the needle. 'Before I burned all of my notes, I transferred all of them to one computer disk, and it's in my luggage. Nick began to relax. He took the syringe back and played with it. His and Natalie's future swirled inside. 'When can I take it? 'When we get to our hotel room, she told him. 'I don't want to take the chance on the plane. Nick smiled broadly and nodded. 'We'll get off in Atlanta and find a room there, okay? He reached out and hugged her. 'Oh, but I haven't told you the best news yet, she added. Natalie kissed him deeply. 'Since the vaccine is made form dead vampire virus cells, it'll make you immune form ever being brought across again. From behind the lovers, nearly visible clouds of anger swirled upward like the smoke from a cigarette fiend. LaCroix, red-eyed and furious, leapt to his feet and in one fluid motion leaned over and snatched the hypodermic. His other hand grasped the good doctor by the throat. If Nick hadn't grabbed him in a headlock, LaCroix would surely have snapped her neck. 'LaCroix! Nick roared. By now he was more concerned with saving Natalie than with the cure. Natalie gurgled, her face an unattractive dark red, as LaCroix tired to squeeze the life from her. She struggled valiantly with him, her hands digging frantically inside her purse seeking something she could use as a weapon. LaCroix dropped the hypodermic and grasped the doctor with both hands. He would kill her! The syringe fell, hitting the Reverend Cross on the top if his bald head and clattering to the floor. Reverend Cross awoke and amazed at the sight began shouting for a doctor. Everyone in first class was standing and watching the struggle in disbelief. The flight attendant, afraid to approach the strange trio, gripped the minister by the arm, demanding to know what was wrong. Puffing from lack of breath, the minister spied the hypodermic and snatched it up quickly. 'Don't know for sure, he told her. 'Lucy-Ann there told me he was diabetic. Maybe he's having some sort of reaction. The ruckus they were creating had the whole section in chaos. Neither Nick nor LaCroix dared use their vampiric abilities in front of so many mortals. Indeed, LaCroix had already allowed his eyes to return to their normal blue and was having doubts as to whether or not he should kill the dear doctor just now. It would be far better to content himself with taking the cure from them and finishing her off later at his leisure after she had claimed her note-filled luggage. His thoughts of clemency were shattered as Natalie, having found a suitable weapon in the depths of her purse, stabbed his hands with a number two pencil. The General, unprepared for her attack, howled in rage, a gurgled, strangled sort of sound because Nicholas still gripped him by the neck. A LaCroix released Natalie to tend to his wounded hands, Nick pulled him half-way over the back of the seat, forcing his master downward. Natalie fell to her seat sucking sweet oxygen back into her lungs. 'Oh my stars! He must be going into insulin shock! the flight attendant cried. 'They must have dropped the syringe in the struggle. 'You get his pants down, and I'll stick him, the preacher roared at her. General Lucien LaCroix, master vampire for nearly two millennia, felt his pants being roughly pulled down from his waist, but he could not spend time wondering about that. He removed the pencil and watched as his hands began healing. Nicholas held him fast. A horrible stinging sensation hit him. It was a pain unlike any he had ever experience, and he had experienced a lot in his two thousand years. With a shattering screech, LaCroix flung Nick from him and turned to see the hypodermic needled embedded in the alabaster flesh of his hip. Reverend Cross's hand neatly pulled out the empty syringe. A single drop of blood seeped from the wound. 'To hell with witnesses! LaCroix thought and hurled himself at Cross. He fully intended to drain the irritating little man and rip him limb from limb. However, the truth of what had just occurred as well as the effect of the serum hit him simultaneously. With a muffled cry of dismay, the General's cold blue eyes rolled upwards in their sockets, and he fell face forward onto the minister. He was out cold. Reverend Cross held LaCroix easily. As Nick and Natalie stared dumbfounded, Cross tugged LaCroix's pants back up and tenderly lowered him into his chair. Gingerly, he wiped the sweat from is brow and handed Natalie the empty needle. 'My brother used to have fits like that, the man told them. 'Until I laid hands on him and cured him. Shaking his head, he dropped back into his seat. Then like a mother hen, he tucked a blanket around LaCroix's softly snoring form. 'There, there, Lucy-Ann, you just rest now. Nick and Natalie, both in shock, slowly slid back down into their seats. For nearly a half-hour neither of them spoke a single word. They listened with relief as the flight attendant explained to the other passengers that 'the tall blonde man was a diabetic who had gone into insulin shock. She insisted that he would be just fine right now after a little rest. 'That man is a minister, Natalie whispered to Nick in a strange toneless voice. 'A faith healer. 'Well, he certainly laid hands on LaCroix, Nick answered in the same non-tone. Timidly, the pair dared look each other in the face, but it was only for a moment before they both broke out into laughter. The End?