Intense fighting seems rather humbling for Buffy to be so diminutive in strength even with the scythe against the tall Jacks. With all the demons going for her neck to bite her, maybe she should sprinkle holy water on her neck and wear a holy cross (do those work on the Jack’s?) If that works, Annie should also do the same. Again, do these Jack’s honor the claiming or marking by other vampire demons? So far, Buffy’s mark from her Spike seems to mean nothing. At this point, with her blood being so prized by the Jacks, if she is not gobbled up by the sea monster and survive, she should bag some of her own blood and use it to toss and distract the demons – have them fight each other off for the sample. Then kill them by infusing holy water into the blood. *Glares at your muse for not leaving a priest behind* Did Annie make it? Did Spike? Will your muse look up recipes for cooking Bob the big bug? Cliff hanger time! No Fair!

Author's Response: Oh, what wonderful suggestions! Bottling her blood and using it to distract the demons is an excellent idea! Too bad Buffy doesn't think of it... :( We will find out later if holy water/crosses will work on them or not, so I'm not gonna comment on that idea just now, you'll have to wait and see. My muse's 'people' are in contact with Andrew Zimmern's 'people' for bug cooking recipes. If you see a rather large, bald man with a knife and fork in his hands looking lost, send him this way - Andrew's obviously come for a taste of some very Bizarre Food! I think many of your questions are now answered in the next chapter, which is up! Thanks, as always! Love all your ideas! Too bad Buffy didn't think of the blood thing ... that might've come in handy later.

Loving this one! And new information on the Gem--could this be how to make another one?

Riley is being a creep (big surprise), I still feel sorry for Spike (in spite of him acting like a big jerk) and I hope that Buffy and Annie, and yes, Spike make it back to safety!

Author's Response: Oooooo - Finally, some small glimmer of good might come from this! Info on the Gem and perhaps how to make another one for Bess! Yay! Oh yes, Riley is a big jerk - apparently an even bigger jerk in 'death' than he was in life. Got more for you - we can see how they did! Thanks so much for stopping in here!

This chapter was action packed. I wish that Buffy would just listen to Spike sometimes. I know they will get out of this mess but I can't imagine how..

Author's Response: Hi Bridget! Buffy really should just listen to him once in a while, especially here, where he knows what he's doing and she doesn't. But ... probably wouldn't be Buffy if she listened and obeyed! :) Thanks for stopping in!