"Come on, Spike. Move it! That THING is about to have us for a midnight snack and YOU want to play with it? KILL IT ALREADY!" Xander shouted at the bleached-blonde figure in black as he tried to edge passed.



"What do you bloody well think I'm tryna do? This thing looks like an easy kill, but it sure as hell ain’t!" Spike hollered back as he ducked a punch from the ugly purple demon. As he circled around the thing, trying to keep between it and the others, he noticed something rather disturbing. "Oh bloody buggering hell. This thing is MALE and it looks to me like he's desperate for a shag!"



Suddenly the demon made a move towards Spike's left side but changed direction and darted past him on the right... knocking Xander into a tree as he headed straight for the slender, dark-haired teen that was trying to become one with a tombstone. "SPIKE! XANDER! HELP!!” the girl, Dawn, screamed. "HELP!"



"OI, get the fuck away from the girl, mate. She ain’t for you, you bloody idiot!" Spike shouted as he tackled the demon from behind, trying to distract it. But he was flung headfirst into the tombstone beside Dawn, stunning him momentarily.



Once again the demon reached for the young girl, but was stopped painfully when its hand went violently missing. The cause of the missing hand became apparent as a lithe blonde figure dressed in black stepped between the demon and its intended victim, wielding an elegant sword. "I believe you were asked to step away from the girl. It really would be to your benefit..." The blonde was cut off as the creature charged her, enraged. With a quick side-step and a bone-jarring thrust of her sword, the blonde embedded her sword in the stomach of the demon. "See, you really should have listened, but I guess the head you think with has no ears. Let me see if I can solve that problem for you." She twirled her sword once around her wrist and with a flourish, lopped off the protruding and offending member. "There, that should enable your OTHER head to do the thinking for you... or maybe not." She grimaced in disgust as the offending member wiggled a little on the ground before dissolving into a puddle of goo.



The wounded and enraged beast surged up off his knees and barrelled almost blindly toward the blonde. Who promptly side-stepped him and, bringing her sword down across the back of his neck, handily beheaded him. "Seems to me you’ve lost your head. But, as you were rather stupid, it’s no big loss." The now-dead demon slumped to the ground and started to dissolve. "OOOoooOOOooo, I like the ones that clean up after themselves," the blonde quipped as she turned to look at Dawn. "Are you okay?" she asked the young girl.



Dawn just stared in awe and admiration. "Oh wow, you killed it. It’s dead. Oh WOW!"



Spike regained his senses and sprang to his feet. "Okay, that is bloody well IT. Prepare to die..." Spike then noticed the dissolving corpse and the lithe blonde standing only a couple of feet away. "Oh, it’s already dead. Well then, looks like that problem is solved." He sauntered over to the girl who had apparently killed the demon. "Hello cutie, name's Spike,” he said with a smirk.



Dawn interrupted, "My name's Dawn, but Spike calls me Nibblet. And wow -- thanks for, you know, killing that thing…cause I was sooo not interested in whatever it had in mind. No sireee bob."



At this juncture, Xander, who was sprawled face-down on the ground, groaned loudly. "Did someone get the number of that bus?" He rolled over and blinked twice, then suddenly sat up. "Where is it? We gotta stop it, it’s after Dawn!" He clambered to his feet, looking wildly around him and promptly stumbled over his feet, sending him to ground once more in an ungainly mess of limbs.



"Oi, Whelp, less with the falling and more with the standing. We have company, " Spike snarked, never once taking his eyes of the darkly-dressed blonde.





A soft giggle penetrated the darkness. "Oh please, don’t stand up on my account, it’s not everyday that men fall at my feet." A short pause while the girl seemed deep in thought. "Oh wait, yes it is. Except they are usually minus their heads."




"Do a lot of killin’, do ya then?" Spike questioned as he lit a cigarette, never taking his eyes off the shadowy figure. "And I didn’t quite catch the name, luv."



"I do enough; some people just don’t know when to leave well enough alone. And I never tossed you my name,” she snarked back.



Dawn went over to help Xander to his feet. "She came out of nowhere , Xander. And was all *SWOOSH* with that sword of hers. She lopped off that demon’s parts!" Dawn started chattering loudly.



"Parts? She cut off his... parts? As in...” Xander whispered faintly as he swiftly covered his own precious package.



"Yup! She just *SWOOSHED* the sword down... and the part fell off! It was soooo cool!" Dawn exclaimed.


"So you castrated the bugger then, before you killed him? Good on you, luv. That blighter had nasty intentions towards my Nibblet,” Spike said. "Why don’t you come on out of the shadows and let us get a good look at you then?"



"Dawn knows who I am, but what I would like to know is... WHY is a twelve year old running around after dark, on the damned Hellmouth of all places?" Anger colored the words spoken by the shadow-enshrouded blonde.


Dawn peered into the shadows that were hiding the woman who had saved her from a fate she refused to contemplate. "I know that voice... But its impossible, she's in Paris ..." As the blonde stepped out of the shadows, Dawn gasped, then squealed, "BUFFY!" and ran towards the mystery woman, all sense of caution abandoned.

“Hi Dawnie,” Buffy said as she wrapped her arms around the slender teen. “I’m glad you are okay. But do you mind telling me just exactly you were doing out here in the dark? And does your mother know where you are?”

Spike simply stared at the vision in front of him. Slender, petite and simply radiating power, the person Dawn had called Buffy was a walking contradiction. She looked like she couldn’t hurt a fly, but the sword slung across her back spoke loudly otherwise. Her long blonde hair shimmered under the moonlight, contrasting sharply with her black clothes. Her eyes, when the light caught them, glimmered like a cat’s but it was the figure encased in the black clothes that would have stolen his breath if he had needed to breathe. Full, ripe breasts, just perfect for her small frame, a tiny waist, that he bet himself he could span with both hands, rounded hips that curved nicely into a heart-shaped ass, and long, slender legs that seemingly went on forever, despite her small stature. She looked like she had stepped off the cover of a magazine, or out of any man’s wet dreams, into reality. “My fault that the Nibblet is out here. She was studying at a friends house and her mum hadda work late at the so she asked me to make sure Dawn got home alright. Wasn’t expecting that horny bugger to jump us though” Spike said, as he ran his hand thru the hair on the back of his neck.

“Don’t blame Spike, Buffy” Dawn begged. “He didn’t know that demon was out here, and he was trying to kill it before it… well you know…” Dawn trailed off, looking at Buffy with beseeching eyes.

“Alright Dawn, I’ll reserve judgment… for now. Why don’t you introduce me to your friends?” Buffy asked, all the while wondering what 2 obviously grown men were doing in the dark with a 12 year old girl.

“COOL! This is Spike,” Dawn reached out and grabbed his hand, pulling him closer. “He’s totally cool, in that Big Brother kind of way. Mom lets him stay in the basement and everything. He helps me with my homework, and he protects us too. He’s a good guy Buffy; he wouldn’t hurt me, or anyone else for that matter. Well unless they were gonna hurt one of us first.” Dawn practically vibrated with her excitement.

“Pleasure to meet you, Luv,” Spike purred as he eyed her appreciatively.

“Okay, now that you’ve met the fanged wonder, would someone mind giving me a hand over here? I seem to have a slight problem,” Xander grumbled, as he fell down for the third time while attempting to stand.

“And that bumbling fool over there is Xander. One of these days he might learn to walk upright,” Spike snarked as he watched Xander crawl over to them after giving up attempting to stand.

Buffy’s nose twitched as she picked up the scent of alcohol. “Did you bathe in whatever you were drinking? ‘Cause you stink.”

Xander rolled over onto his back, staring up at the night sky and groaned aloud. “Please tell me I didn’t break the bottles, Anya is sooo gonna kill me if I did.”

“Sorry to hear that Xander, would you like an open or closed casket for your funeral?” Spike asked with an air of false innocence.

“Um guys, as much as I love hanging out in cemeteries, do you think we can move this party elsewhere before something decides it wants to make a snack out of you three?” Buffy asked impatiently, all the while glancing about her with an air of readiness.

“Well, Luv. It won’t be me they’d be snacking on, but I get your point.” Spike turned to the prostrate Xander and prodded him with the toes of his boot. “Rise and shine Harris, or do I have to carry you?”

“There will be no carrying of me by you. I can walk, I think…” Xander mumbled as he rolled over and clambered to his feet. “Lead on pretty lady, I will follow you to the pits of hell. Provided you aren’t after my luscious bod. That belongs only to Anya.” Xander grinned as Dawn lightly slapped him on the arm.

“Xander, you are soooo gonna slap yourself when you find out who she is,” Dawn declared. “In fact, Anya may slap you for even thinking it.”

Buffy shook her head and laughed softly. “I think I might like your friends Dawn, but we do need to take this elsewhere. Preferably indoors, cause we have company coming and they don’t seem to be of the politeness.”

Spike’s head shot up, as he took a deep, un-needed breath. “She’s right, and whatever they are, they sure as hell ain’t human. Let’s move out people. As it is Joyce is gonna have my hide for Dawn being in the cemetery. Take one little short-cut and your night is ruined…” He trailed off, mumbling to himself as he took up a position between the girls and the as yet unseen problem.

Buffy glanced at Spike, a troubled look on her face. She turned to Dawn and said in a low voice, “You are so gonna tell me why you are hanging out with a vampire, and why he isn’t trying to kill you.” She took Dawn’s hand in hers and started walking towards the street. “Come ON people, we don’t have all night!”

Xander hurried after them. “Hey not so fast, I think I’m safer with you than with the bleached wonder back there. HE likes to use me as bait.”

You could almost hear the smirk in Spike’s voice as he said “Not my fault you look like a nummy treat, Harris.” Spike had heard what Buffy had said to Dawn and was looking forward to her reaction when she was told all about him. Mind you, he was also hoping to learn all about her.

The four of them swiftly made their way to the house on Revello Drive . Joyce’s SUV clearly parked in the driveway.

“Oh bugger, she beat us home. I’m dust.” Spike complained

Dawn raced up the steps and into the house, hollering “MOM, guess who I ran into! You will never believe it!”

Joyce turned to Dawn and smiled, “I’d love to meet your friend, after you tell me why you are out so late, young lady.” Just then, Joyce caught sight of Buffy in the doorway.

The last thing anyone heard as she passed out was “Mother?”

Buffy darted to Joyce’s side and caught her before she hit the ground. “Dawn, go get me a cold cloth, please.” Buffy gently stroked the softly curled hair of the woman in her arms. “Wake up Joycie, I’m here and everything is okay.”

Dawn ran back into the room with the cold cloth and dropped to her knees beside her mom and Buffy. “Is she okay? I didn’t mean to make her pass out Buffy. Honest.”

“She’ll be okay Dawn. I think she was just a little shocked to see me. After all it has been, what, 6 years since she saw me in person?” Buffy sat there on the floor, cradling Joyce’s unconscious body to her chest and sighed. “I really should have called first, and warned her.” Glancing over at the door, she raised one eyebrow and queried, “Are you guys gonna just stand in the doorway all night or are you gonna come in and close the door?”

Xander just stood there, mouth hanging open. “Did she… are you… no way,” he stuttered.

Meanwhile, Spike pushed him into the house and shut the door behind them. “Is she gonna be alright, Luv?”

“She’ll be fine. It was probably just the shock of seeing me after so long.” Buffy distractedly replied. She leaned over and placed a gentle kiss on Joyce’s forehead and whispered softly, “Wake up my little Joy. Everything is okay.”

Xander continued to stutter and stumble over his words, muttering to himself. “There is no… I don’t believe… it’s impossible…” He glanced over at Joyce and Buffy and shook his head in disbelief. He stumbled over to a chair and collapsed.

Buffy looked up at Spike and asked, “Can you carry her over to the couch for me, please? This floor isn’t exactly the most comfortable place to be.”

Spike crouched down and slid his right arm under Joyce’s knees and his left arm behind her shoulders. That he also managed to brush Buffy’s breasts with his hand was a just a lucky bonus. “Sure thing, Luv.” He winked at Buffy as he slowly stood up, cradling Joyce against his chest.

As he walked over to the couch, Buffy started to gracefully rise to her feet. She was thrown off balance, however, when the door was thrust open, slamming into her. The hulking figure that burst through the doors latched his fingers onto Dawn’s shoulder and dragged her towards him. “Where have you been? I’ve been looking all over town for…” His tirade was abruptly quelled by the press of a sharp edge to his throat.

“Remove your hands from the girl, and step back. NOW!” Buffy’s hard, cold voice seemed to shatter in the air.

Xander fell off his chair, laughing while pointing at the dumfounded expression on the intruder’s face. “Oh man… you should see yourself Angel. You look like you’re about to piss yourself.”

Placing Joyce on the couch and motioning to Dawn to sit beside her, Spike joined Buffy at the door. “Looks like she’s got you now Peaches. I suggest you do exactly what she tells you.”

“Yeah DeadBoy. Just ask Dawn what happened to the last guy,” Xander gasped, trying to catch his breath from laughing.

“This purple thing tried to grab me, and *SWOOSH* she lopped off his parts!” Dawn exclaimed.

Angel winced at the graphic imagery produced by Dawn’s enthusiastic words. Then his attention was caught by the woman holding the sword at his throat. He allowed his eyes to wander over the nubile body of the woman in front of him. “Hello, my name is Angel. What’s yours little girl?” One could almost see the insincere charm ooze off his tongue.

Buffy raised one eyebrow and looked at him in disbelief. She turned to Spike and asked, “Is this guy for real? Does he actually think crap like that works?”

“Unfortunately, he thinks he’s god’s gift to the world. Always has, and probably always will. And the soul those gypsies stuck in him don’t help the issue much either,” Spike remarked.

Xander climbed to his feet, still laughing. “From what I’ve read, he also has a ‘thing’ for young girls. And I do mean YOUNG. Which is why Mrs. Summers doesn’t like him in her house.” Turning to Angel he questioned, “Why are you here anyway DeadBoy?”

Before Angel could open his mouth, Spike smirked and said,” He probably figured that if he found Dawn, he might get Joyce to like him.” Glancing at Buffy he whispered, rather loudly, “An’ she really doesn’t like him… at all.”

Buffy laughed softly. “She always did have a good instinct for people out to hurt what’s hers.” Turning to Angel, her voice hard and cold once more, “I suggest you leave. Now. Before I change my mind and remove one more idiot from this plane of existence.”

Turning her back on Angel, she sheathed her sword in one smooth motion as she walked towards the couch. Spike gave Angel a little push out the door, and then locked it behind him.

He turned back towards the couch and heard Xander ask Buffy, “So, you are Mrs. Summers’ mom. How exactly does that work?”

Eager to hear the answer, Spike looked at Buffy with his head cocked to one side. “I’d kinda like to know the answer to that one myself. Gonna share with the rest of the class, Luv?”

Slipping her sword-harness off her back and leaning it against the wall beside the couch, Buffy laughed softly, her hazel eyes sparkling with green fire. “Why do I have the feeling that neither one of you will believe me?”

Dawn leaned over and playfully punched Buffy on the shoulder. “You just don’t want to admit your real age. Can you even remember your real age?” she asked with a grin.

Xander, bouncing like a little puppy, piped up, “C’mon you can tell us, and we won’t say a word. Will we Spike?” He glanced over at Spike for confirmation.

“Speak for yourself Harris. I’ll say what I please, when I please. Don’t mean I’m gonna go spill the lady’s secrets. Just sayin’, don’t make promises for me.” Spike grumbled at Xander.

With a soft sigh, Buffy sank onto the chair. “You guys probably won’t believe this, but I am far older than I look.”

“Might as well get comfortable guys, this could take a while. Plus, I don’t want to go saying anything without Joyce being completely coherent, as this does involve her too,” Buffy said with a sigh.

Suddenly the door burst open and a rather disheveled gentleman stumbled into the house. “Is she here? Oh please tell me she’s here. That pillock on the front lawn wouldn’t say much other than mumble something about being threatened.”

Spike chuckled wickedly and asked “He’s still out there? One would think being told he’s in danger of losing his unused parts would make him scarper off like the poof he is.” Spike headed for the dining room, “Anyone care for a drink? I’m thinkin’ we are gonna need somethin’ in the way of liquid fortification before the night’s over.”

Dawn bounced up from where she was sitting beside her mother. “Giles! Guess who showed up at the cemetery?” Pointing excitedly to Buffy she continued, “This ugly purple demon attacked us and Buffy swooped in and lopped off his parts with her sword. It was way cool!”

Giles yanked off his glasses and started polishing them furiously. “Demon you say? And purple? And what were you doing in the cemetery this time of night?”

Buffy remarked quietly to herself, “That’s what I wanted to know.”

Turning to Buffy, Giles speared her with an inquisitive glare. “Did Dawn just call you ‘Buffy’?

“Yeah, odd name I know, but it IS all Dawn’s fault. I was going by the name Beth when she first started learning to talk, and Buffy is what she came out with. Unfortunately, it stuck” Buffy replied with a small shrug.

“I see. And what is your name then? Beth? Short for Elizabeth I presume?” Giles inquired.

Just then Xander inserted his two cents. “She was saying just as you showed up that she was gonna explain everything to us as soon as Joyce wakes up. She fainted when she saw Buffy.”

“Joyce fainted? Where is she? Is she okay?” Giles frantically asked while he scanned the room. His eyes fell on Joyce, lying supine on the couch. “Oh my dear Joyce” Giles murmured as he fell to his knees beside the couch.

Xander leaned over and whispered to Buffy, “Giles has a major thing for Joyce.”

Buffy smiled indulgently and whispered back, “I can tell.”

Spike handed Giles a glass of scotch. “Here mate. You look a little faint yourself.”

“Thanks Spike” Giles muttered, never taking his eyes off of Joyce. “Is she…”

“Her heart is beating strong, regular breathing rhythm.” Spike said as he sat on the arm of Buffy’s chair. “She should come round soon. Unless you scare her back into unconsciousness with that morose look on your face, Watcher.”

Buffy looked over at Dawn. “Isn’t this a school night, kiddo? Shouldn’t you be at least pretending to be asleep?”

Dawn groaned loudly. “C’mon Buffy, I haven’t seen you in ages. Don’t be such a spoilsport.”

“I’ll still be here in the morning sweetie. In fact I may just stick around for a while. Haven’t really had a vacation in ages.” Buffy smiled and motioned towards the stairs. “Go on, off to bed with you. If you go now, I’ll pick you up after school on my bike.”

Dawn jumped up and squealed quietly with excitement. “YES!” She raced up the stairs and slammed her bedroom door.

At that moment, the door swung open again and three women raced into the house, slamming the door shut behind them.

“Giles, why is Angel pacing back and forth on the lawn? He’s muttering to himself and looks like he’s gonna implode from brooding. You really need to ask him to leave. He makes the neighbors look nervous. XANDER, where have you been! I needed orgasms over an hour ago! Why do you smell like a brewery? Did you go to the bar? You PROMISED me no more drinking!” Anya stormed into the room and proceeded to smack Xander on the shoulder.

“HEY! Lay off Ahn. I wasn’t drinking! I was carrying a couple of bottles of wine and they got broken! Ask Spike if you don’t believe me!” Xander yelped.

“He’s telling ya the truth Demon Girl. He broke the bottles over at Restfield.” Spike stated with a smirk.

Anya looked over at Spike, “Oh, okay then. But that doesn’t explain why he wasn’t home to give me my orgasms.” At that moment she spotted the blonde sitting in the chair. “Elizabeth!”

Buffy stood up and caught the flying bundle of bubbly delight that was Anya as she was tackled. “Hey Anyanka, long time no see. What are you doing in this hellhole?”

Xander and Spike blinked at each other. “You two know each other? How? Where? WHEN?”

“Oh I met Elizabeth in Russia during the revolution. She has a real knack for destructive vengeance,” Anya replied.

Willow and Tara stood by the door listening and watching the goings on. After Anya finished, Willow asked, “So who is she, and why is she here?” At that moment Willow caught sight of Joyce lying on the couch. “And why is Joyce passed out on the couch? Did she do something to her?”

“Easy Red,” Spike said as he got up and walked over to stand protectively behind Buffy. “She saved Dawn, Xander and myself tonight from one ugly-ass demon. She’s okay. Joyce just fainted when she saw her. That’s all.”

Tara asked softly, “Is Joyce okay? Can I do anything to help?”

Spike looked down at Buffy and said “Glinda over there is a witch. She knows a bunch of healing spells and stuff. Do you think she should take a look at Joyce?”

Buffy looked at Tara , then over to Joyce and then up at Spike. “I don’t know. She should have woken up by now. It’s not like we have been super quiet and everything. Dawn’s door slamming alone could wake the dead.” She looked over at Tara . “If you would take a look I’d be appreciative.”

It was at this juncture that Joyce moaned softly and began to rouse from her faint. “Mother?” she asked weakly, “Is that really you?”

“Mother? What is she talking about?” Giles asked, looking bewildered.

“Well G-man it’s like this…” Xander started to say, but was cut off as Willow started talking over top of him.

“Whose mother? Her mother? Did Mrs. Summers hit her head or something?” Willow asked in a babbling manner.

“I’m here baby, everything is gonna be okay,” Buffy said soothingly as she darted to Joyce’s side, brushing Giles aside. “Mother is here, you aren’t imagining things.”

“Oh Mother, you are here. I’m so glad to see you.” Joyce sobbed as she collapsed into the arms of the woman she had called Mother all her life.

Buffy cradled Joyce in her arms, murmuring softly in her ear, as she gently stroked her hair.

Everyone looked on with mixed emotions. Giles was completely flabbergasted. Anya was amused and a little teary-eyed. Xander was grinning from ear to ear at Giles’ expression. And Willow and Tara looked on in astonishment.

The only one who wasn’t watching Buffy and Joyce was Spike. His supernatural hearing had picked up a noise from outside and he was trying to determine what had made the sound.

Suddenly from upstairs a piercing scream was heard.

Spike, Buffy and Joyce all looked up at the same time and in unison said one word “Dawn.”

Before anyone else could react, both Spike and Buffy were up the stairs and into Dawn’s room. What they saw made their respective tempers flare.

Reaching out with one slender hand, Buffy grabbed Angel around the throat and dragged him through the window where he had been peering into Dawn’s room. “I thought I told you to leave,” she growled.

Spike wrapped his arms around Dawn and shifted into game face, growling loudly. “Stupid wanker. What in hell do you think you were doin’?”

A gurgling sound issued from Angel’s throat, but no words could be heard. Buffy simply tightened her grip on Angel and dragged him out of the room and down the stairs, not caring if he walked, slid or thumped down.

“Seems we have ourselves a peeping tom. Anyone want to field the question as to WHY he was peeping on Dawn?” Buffy asked with a high amount of irritation in her voice.

Joyce rose from the couch, her face an angry mask. “I thought I told you to never show your face near my daughter again, Angel,” she said, then slapped him hard across the face.

“Again?” Buffy queried. “He’s done this before then?”

Spike came down the stairs with Dawn following close behind him. “He has a thing for young girls. Always has, and always will. Its one of the reason’s Joyce doesn’t like him.”

Turning her gaze on Angel, she arched one finely curved eyebrow. “So, you like to spy on little girls in the privacy of their bedrooms. There is a word for that.” Buffy stated.

Anya piped up, “Yes there is. It’s pedophile. I used to get a lot of vengeance wishes from young girls against their abusers.”

Tossing Anya a slight grin, Buffy remarked, “Well I think I can safely say that he won’t be getting any enjoyment from his activities tonight.” She looked over at Dawn. “Sweetie, can you bring my sword? Time to show the moron what happens to those who try and hurt what’s mine.”

“What is she going to do, Joyce?” Giles asked quietly.

Joyce turned to Giles with a tight smile and said, “Teach him a lesson he won’t ever forget.”

“Xander, if you would be so kind as to open the door for me. I don’t want this thing to bleed all over Joyce’s floor.” Buffy asked as she pulled Angel towards the door.

As Xander opened the door, Dawn hurried over with Buffy’s sheathed sword clenched in her hands. “Hurt him real good, Buffy. He gives me the creeps.”

“Don’t worry Dawnie. He will know great pain before I’m through with him,” Buffy reassured the young girl.

Anya skipped over to Buffy’s side. “Need any help?”

Buffy looked at Anya and grinned. “I see you haven’t lost your taste for vengeance Anyanka, but I think perhaps if you helped Joyce keep the others from interfering…” her voice trailed off as she glanced at the two young witches.

Spike stood off to one side, his vivid blue eyes intent on the scene being played out before him, a smirk twisting his lips as he took note of his grandsire’s wide eyes. “I think you’re about to get your comeuppance, Peaches.”

Buffy shifted her grip on Angel’s throat without letting go and reached for the hilt of her sword with her right hand. “Hold tight to the sheath Dawn, I don’t want to accidentally cut you.” As she slid the ebon-bladed sword from its sheath, she turned her gaze on Angel.

Giles drew in a sharp breath when he caught sight of the sword and fixed his gaze onto the young woman known as Buffy. His mind raced with numerous questions and unfettered curiosity.

Roughly maneuvering Angel backwards out the open door, Buffy placed the tip of her sword exactly 3 inches above his groin. “I’d tell you that this was going to hurt me worse than it hurts you, but I’d be lying.” The tip sliced easily through his pants and pricked his skin. “This is for Dawn. And if I EVER catch you near her again, I WILL show you the true meaning of the word pain.”

As soon as the words had left her mouth, Buffy let go of Angel’s throat and simultaneously shoved the sword into his body. He let out a hoarse scream and staggered backwards, falling off the porch steps. This had the effect of removing the blade from his flesh.

Joyce stepped forward and ordered him off her property. “Get lost Angel. Don’t EVER come here again. I’m having Willow and Tara revoke your invitation to my house. You have proven you can’t be trusted.” She turned and went back into the house.

Spike grinned at the sight of Angel lying on the sidewalk, bleeding profusely from his wound. “If it were up to me, Peaches, I woulda castrated you and made you eat it.”

Angel climbed painfully to his feet and staggered out of sight, muttering to himself about getting even with the blond bitch.

As Buffy turned back into the house, she smirked to herself.

Xander darted behind Anya and peered out at Buffy. “Don’t take this the wrong way, but do you have a thing for damaging men’s parts?”

“Only those men who find it amusing or arousing to harm children,” Buffy stated as she calmly took the sheath from Dawn and slid the sword inside. “Especially when the one they are hurting belongs to me.”

Joyce and Giles were standing off to one side, whispering together, and glancing over at Buffy every couple of seconds.

Spike said with a laugh, “I think its time you explained who and what you are, Luv, before the watcher’s curiosity makes him explode.”

With a grin, Buffy walked over to the high-backed armchair in the corner, and leaning her sword against the wall, took her seat as regally as any monarch. “I think you are right, Spike. Time to tell the tale of how Joyce became mine, and thus making Dawn mine as well. Gather ‘round children, make yourselves comfortable, this will take a while.”

As everyone took their places, Dawn curled up at Buffy’s feet, trying not to be noticed. Buffy however, saw her and just smiled. “Joycie, I think Dawn should hear this too; she can miss one day of school right?”

Joyce laughed and said, “Yes, she can stay up and listen. I’ll call her off sick tomorrow.”

Spike, being more than a little interested in the golden girl sitting so regally, took up a position slightly to one side, but close enough to touch, if he dared.

Once everyone was comfortably seated, Buffy began her story.

“I won’t go into detail about my life prior to finding Joyce. If it’s relevant at some point I will indulge your curiosity, but the story of my life would take more years than any of you have to spare. So I’ll just keep to how Joyce became mine.”

Buffy’s eyes took on a distant look, as she revisited her memories of that time.

“I was in New York on business; fortunately for all concerned, someone took care of the situation for me, leaving me free to discover someone who would change my life. It was roughly midnight ; the moon was high in the sky, providing enough light to see by. I had decided to take a walk through Central Park and think on events. The path wandered in and out amongst the trees, providing some deep shadows in which those who prefer the darkness could hide.

“I was just approaching a large copse of trees, when I heard a gunshot, and a woman’s scream. Never being one to think before I act…” and at this Buffy gave a quiet chuckle, “I darted into the shadows under the trees and saw a young man, in his late twenties, lying in a pool of blood, a bullet hole between his eyes. The killer had his left arm wrapped around a struggling girl who looked about six years of age, His gun was pointed at the woman who had issued the scream, and was telling her in quite vulgar language, and in great detail, what he was gonna do with the girl.

“Just as I prepared to step out of the shadows, he shot the woman in the upper chest, fatally wounding her, but not killing her instantly. He began to touch the little girl, in places I won’t mention…”

As she said this, Spike gave a deep growl, his eyes flickering from their deep blue to a fiery gold.

Everyone had looks of horror and disgust on their faces and Tara was weeping softly, being the sensitive person that she was.

Buffy reached over and touched Spike gently on the cheek, “Easy there sport, don’t be getting all fangy on me now, okay?”

Spike nodded and settled for glaring at a spot on the floor.

Buffy took a deep breath and continued, “As you’ve seen, I carry a sword. And I carry it everywhere. One of the perks of being me, I guess. At any rate, I unsheathed my sword and placed it on the back of the man’s neck. I told him in no uncertain terms to let the girl go, and step away. He told me to go fuck myself.” Buffy snorted and laughed darkly. “He should have listened… I looked into the terrified eyes of that little girl, and made my decision. I squeezed my eyes almost shut, trying to get her to close her eyes. She understood and closed her beautiful green eyes.” Buffy looked over at Joyce and smiled gently.

“In less than 2 seconds his head had been removed from his shoulders, and I kicked at his corpse as it fell, so it wouldn’t land on the little girl. She lay there, trembling; her eyes screwed up tight and seemed to be also holding her breath. I told her that she could open her eyes and that she was safe.

“Suddenly my arms were full of a trembling and crying six year old girl. As I held her, trying to comfort her, I looked over to where the young woman was laying. She was dying, fast. And I didn’t know if I could get her to help in time. She smiled at me, and thanked me for stopping the guy. Then she asked me to do something that changed my life. She asked me to watch out for her daughter, to take her, and keep her safe. She told me the little girl’s name was Joyce Anne McLeod, and that she had no living blood relatives.”

Buffy looked over at Joyce and smiled softly. “We found out later that she had an uncle of sorts who was at the time living in London . But I promised her mother that I would look after her, raise her and keep her safe.”

Joyce smiled sadly. “I can still see her face sometimes, in my dreams. Mother found someone who could paint fantastic portraits, and had the lady paint pictures for me of my blood parents.”

Giles wrapped his arms around Joyce and just held her. “It must have been a terrible thing to have happen, my dear. And I am so sorry it happened to you.”

Joyce smiled tenderly at Giles. “I had nightmares for months, but Mother helped me. Lord the places we went. She used to show me a map, and tell me to point anywhere I wanted to go. By the time I was eighteen, I had seen the pyramids of Egypt , walked through the ruins of the Parthenon, ridden a camel across the deserts of Saudi Arabia and danced beneath the moon on midsummer’s eve at Stonehenge .”

Buffy giggled, “You should have seen her, racing around at the age of 12, driving her Uncle Duncan insane when we visited him in Chicago that year. Remember Joyce? I had never seen that man laugh so much as he did when you were there.”

Xander interrupted, “So this guy, Duncan, is like her real uncle? You could have handed her over and the courts would have made him take her or something?”

Buffy sighed softly, “No Xander, for many reasons. The main one being that I had had the courts declare Joyce my adopted daughter. Well that, and Duncan ? Raising a kid? No way in hell could I see that happening. The man was too stuck on his martial arts and being all enigmatic. Scotsmen… I swear, they look good in kilts, but have one track minds…”

Giles interrupted, “Forgive me, but…” He took a deep breath and continued, “How old were you when you saved Joyce? Because you don’t look much older than sixteen.”

Buffy laughed, her green eyes sparkling with mirth. “Mr. Giles, you wouldn’t believe me if I told you my true age. Let’s just say that I witnessed the fall of the Roman Empire and leave it at that.”

Willow piped up. “So you are like what... over 2000 thousand years old? WOW! You could so help with our ancient history class at college, couldn’t she Tara? The things you must know, must have seen, and must have done! And the people you must have known and talked to…” Her voice trailed off, her mind on overload with the possibilities.

Spike watched Buffy, his eyes roaming over her leather-encased figure, his mind racing. Now that he knew she wasn’t as young as she looked, he allowed his eyes and his mind to linger in places and on thoughts that were guaranteed to get him in trouble.

Dawn crawled across the room to her mother, and wrapped her arms around her waist, burying her face in her lap. “Oh Mom, that was soooo awful.” Dawn started to cry softly.

Joyce stroked Dawn’s hair gently and whispered to her, “It’s okay pumpkin, its okay. It was a long time ago, and I’m fine. And hey, we both have Buffy in our lives, looking out for us, so we are fine.”

Giles took off his glasses and began to clean them, almost impatiently. “I’m sorry to be so forward, but that sword of yours. I’ve seen drawings of one identical to it, and couldn’t help but wonder…”

Buffy broke in, “Yes Mr. Giles, it is the sword you are thinking of, and no, I didn’t steal it. It was made for me, and has never left my hands since my father gave it to me.”

Smiling gently to offset the harshness of her words, Buffy continued. “You and I will discuss the sword, and perhaps my life, at a later date Mr. Giles. None of us has the time for such a venture currently.”

Giles cleared his throat and opened his mouth to start arguing when Joyce jabbed him in the ribs with her finger. “She said later, Rupert. Don’t start on her or you won’t like the consequences!”

Glancing sheepishly at Joyce, Giles sighed and nodded. “Yes dear. I’ll try and curb my curiosity.”

Anya started laughing and remarked, “That is something I’d never thought I’d ever see. Giles not allowed to be asking questions!”

The rest of the gang snickered and giggled as Giles stammered and began to furiously polish his glasses. “Right, just you wait. I’ll save up some particularly embarrassing ones for later. At least one for each of you sniggering prats.”

Buffy watched the goings on with an indulgent smile on her face. Then she happened to glance at Spike, and found herself drowning in his crystalline blue eyes. The burning heat she found in his gaze lit a fire within her, startling her. With a great deal of effort Buffy tore her gaze from Spike’s and cleared her throat.

Spike noticed the startlement in Buffy’s gaze and realized he had allowed at least some of his thoughts to show in his eyes. Smirking to himself he thought, ‘oh yeah, I still have it.’

Everyone glanced back at Buffy when she cleared her throat, the laughter dying on their lips when they saw the determination and hardness within her eyes.

Anya was the first to find her voice. “Oh, I bet I know what you want Elizabeth . You want to know what’s going on here, who we are, and what we are doing. Am I right?”

“Close Anya, very close. The personal histories of you and your friends can wait for a better time. However, there are two things I must know immediately, before I tell you why I am here.” Buffy stated in a soft, yet compelling tone.

Deliberately keeping his voice low and smoky, Spike asked, “And what would those two things be, Luv?”

Darting a glance sideways at Spike, Buffy replied, “First, I want to know who Rupert Giles is, and why he keeps calling Joyce dear and darling.” She speared Giles with a glance, her green eyes seeming to pin him in place, and Giles felt as though he was her prey.

“Uhh, yes. Right. Well umm…” Giles began to stutter and glance around as if looking for help.

With a devilish glint in her eyes, Dawn piped up. “He’s dating Mom. Always making with the puppy eyes and kissy faces at her. It’s utterly revolting.”

“DAWN!” Joyce exclaimed, her eyes wide and darting from Dawn, to Giles and then to Buffy, and back to Dawn again. “Somehow I don’t think that’s quite what she meant.”
“No, Joyce. That’s exactly what I meant. I failed you when it came to Hank Summers, I won’t fail you again.” Everyone heard the implied threat in Buffy’s voice, and even Spike shuddered at what it might mean for the Watcher.

“Right then. I suppose I should explain myself and my intentions towards your daughter.” Giles’ voice took on the inflections of his a polite Englishman. “Madam, I love Joyce with all my being, and would do anything to keep both her and Dawn safe.”

“Even if that means letting them go?” Buffy queried softly.

“Whatever do you mean” Giles asked.

“If it was in their best interests to leave Sunnydale, go somewhere safer, away from you, would you let them leave? Despite how much you might want them to stay?” Everyone could see the honesty and concern in Buffy’s eyes.

Giles whipped his glasses off his face and jabbed them in Buffy’s direction. “Now see here young lady, I have tried to get Joyce to take Dawn and leave town. She refuses to do so. What would you have me do, force them at gun point to board the bus out of town?”

Buffy’s eyes narrowed piercingly at Giles, her entire focus centered on him. Almost as one the people in the room gasped as her pupils narrowed, becoming catlike slits. Giles felt himself pale and wondered if he’d survive the encounter.

Joyce jumped to her feet, placing herself between Giles and Buffy. “Now Mother...” she began, only to start laughing as Buffy herself started to chuckle her entire body relaxing in the chair.

“You all look like I was about to eat him. Trust me, I find English food rather… bland.” Buffy giggled.

After giving Giles a few moments to compose himself, Buffy continued, “I like you, despite the Watcherness I sense in you. Want to explain that part to me? Cause I got to say, dying of curiosity here.”

Before Giles could say anything, Willow and Tara stood up, looking sheepish. “Tara and I have classes in the morning, so we’d better go. It was nice to meet you Buffy, and I hope you’ll stick around long enough go to the Bronze with us.”

Tara smiled shyly. “I enjoyed meeting you too, Buffy.”

Nodding to the two witches, Buffy told them she’d be around for a while, and she looked forward to seeing the Bronze.

Taking a cue from the girls, Xander stood up and dragged Anya with him. “Ahn and I had better go too. I have work tomorrow and Anya has to open the shop. Remember Ahn? That place where you talk the nice people into giving you their money?”

“Oh yes, I must get some rest so I can work and make money. But don’t think I’m going to let you go to sleep without giving me at least 3 orgasms, Xander.” Anya’s voice trailed off as Xander pulled her out the door.

“I see Anyanka hasn’t changed in the past century,” Buffy remarked quietly to herself. “Money and sex, its all she ever did think about, really.” Turning her attention back to the others, she regarded Giles with a steady expression. “So, Watcher. Are you going to explain the details of your posting here in Sunnydale? Or am I going to have to take a stab at it?”

“When you say ‘stab’, do you mean actually stabbing him? Cause that could be quite… neat,” Spike said with a smirk.

As Buffy snickered softly, both Joyce and Giles glared at Spike. “That is really not funny Spike, considering what we have seen her do to Angel. Really not funny at all.”

“Okay people, enough with the making of the funny. I require information as to who Mr. Giles is, and why he is in Sunnydale.” Buffy spoke with absolutely no humor in her voice.

Giles stood up, and began to pace slowly back and forth in front of those assembled in the living room. “Right, well as you’ve surmised I am a Watcher. I was sent here by the Council to keep an eye on the Hellmouth here in Sunnydale. They suspected that it was active but didn’t think it was serious enough to warrant a Slayer being stationed here. In the 3 years I have been here, I have come to believe otherwise, but the Council feels that my reports are exaggerated somewhat and refuse to even consider sending a Slayer here.”

Buffy broke into Giles’ speech, “You are aware that they have a Slayer stationed in Cleveland then?”

“Yes, I am quite aware of this. I was told that if something of apocalyptic nature appeared, I was to ask for assistance ‘through the proper channels’. By which they, of course, mean contacting the Council, who would then contact the Slayer and her Watcher.”

“By which time, the bleeding apocalypse would have occurred and the whole world would have gone to hell in a hand basket. Right Giles?” Spike snarked.

“Indeed, Spike. It would appear as if the Council has ulterior motives, but they are very set in their ways and these things must be done according to tradition,” Giles said.

“Tradition my ass. More like they just don’t want to move off their fat asses and actually concern themselves with something other than the proper brewing of a cup of tea,” Joyce exclaimed. “Rupert, you, Spike and the kids risk your lives on a daily basis and those morons you work for couldn’t give a damn. Some days I think they would prefer it if you were dead!”

“Come now Joyce, it’s not as bad as all that. They just don’t feel the situation here warrants the attentions of a Slayer,” Giles spoke soothingly.

“So, the Harvest, which by the way almost cost you your life, Watcher, the Master’s rising, the Anointed One, Drusilla showing up and trying to de-soul the poof, not to mention her attempt to open that damned hunk of rock, aren’t considered serious?” Spike ranted at Giles. Turning to Buffy he clarified, “Any one of those things I mentioned could have had disastrous consequences for this town, if not the entire world.”

Buffy looked at Spike. “Wait a sec; did you say “The Master”? As in Heinrich NEST?”

“Yup, that’s the one. Old bat-face himself. Why? You know him?” Spike asked.

“Heard of him. Nasty piece of work, that one. And the Council didn’t think that him breaking free of his prison warranted a Slayer’s involvement?” Buffy asked with a deep note of incredulity in her voice.

“Nope, in fact, as I recall, they told the Watcher that one old vampire couldn’t be all that bad,” Spike responded.

Buffy dropped her head into her hands, in an attempt to muffle her screams of frustration. After a few moments, she raised her head, pinning Giles where he stood with a single glance. “Go on, I know there is more to this than you are telling me. You were sent here to watch the hellmouth. I get that. Where do those kids, and my family fall into this whole mess?”

“I met Joyce shortly after she moved to Sunnydale. Oddly enough it was Willow who introduced us. Joyce had posted a notice at the high school looking for a babysitter for Dawn a couple of nights a week,” Giles began.

Joyce interrupted, “Only for the nights I had to work late at the gallery. I figured I could find a responsible girl at the high school. And it worked.”

“Yes, well, at any rate, Willow asked me if I would be willing to give her a character recommendation. Tell Joyce what a good girl she was and all that. Joyce came to the library at the high school, and well…” Giles paused, clearly embarrassed.

“What the Watcher won’t tell you Love, is that he made a complete ass out of himself when he saw Joyce. Kept stumbling over his words and all that. Made a right prat outta himself.” Spike informed Buffy.

Giles glared at Spike. “Thank you Spike, I had almost forgotten that. How kind of you to remind me,” Giles said with a sarcastic twist to his lips.

Spike winked at Buffy and replied cheekily, “You are welcome.”

Giles groaned and looked imploringly at Joyce. “Please tell me that I can stake him? I know he’s a relative and all, but… PLEASE! He’s getting annoying, more so than usual.”

“Now Rupert, you know you can’t do that. Besides, you can be just as annoying.” Joyce snickered, and then looked at Buffy. “It must be a family trait.”

“Wait a sec, relative? These two are related? As in more than just the whole both being British thing?” Buffy inquired.

“Yup, he’s the great great nephew of my older sister. Guess that makes me his uncle, of a sort.” Spike said.

Buffy blinked twice, and then looked back and forth between the two men, peering at each of them with an unwavering gaze. This caused Giles to blush and fidget, while furiously cleaning his glasses, and caused Spike to smirk at her, while he curled his tongue against his upper teeth. “Something tells me this is gonna be a good one. So, onto my second question. Spike, who are you and what are you doing in Sunnydale, and what are you doing NOT causing death and destruction like all evil vampires should?”

“Well, who I am is a simple answer, the rest is a little more complicated…” Spike trailed off, rubbing the back of his neck with one hand.

“I have all the time in the world, Spike. So spill the beans. Start with the easy part and work your way into the hardness of it.” Buffy raised one eyebrow at Spike while poking him with one finger.

Spike smirked and whispered in Buffy’s ear, “You can check out my hardness anytime you want love.” He pulled back chuckling as Buffy tried to push him off his chair.

“Since both Joyce and I know this story, I think we’ll head off to bed.” Realizing how that sounded, Giles started to stammer, “ I mean, Joyce will go to bed and I’ll go to bed, at my house, which isn’t here, obviously, and oh Lord someone slap me I’m starting to sound like Harris.”

“C’mon Rupert, carry Dawn upstairs for me. I think it would be safer if she was in my bed this evening, just in case that idiot Angel comes back,” Joyce said.

Both Buffy and Spike watched as Giles picked up Dawn, and headed for the stairs. Quietly wishing them both a goodnight, Joyce followed behind.

Turning to Spike, Buffy poked him once more with a slender index finger. “So, get on with the explainy bits then.”

“Right then. “ Spike stood up and took two steps away from Buffy. Bowing slightly at the waist, he spoke in a softly cultured voice, far different from his usual tone. “Allow me to introduce myself, my lady. I am William Edward Pratt, eldest and only son and second child of my parents, Lady Anne Essex-Pratt and Lord Edward Richard Pratt, 6th Earl of Keswick. I have an elder sister, Victoria Elizabeth, married to Viscount Robert Henry Pryce and a younger sister, Mary Anne Pratt, who perished of a childhood disease shortly before her 9th birthday. I myself have never been married, nor even engaged. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance Miss Buffy.”

With a gentle smile Buffy replied, “Indeed sir, the pleasure is all mine.”

Laughing softly Spike quipped, “Oh love, I can indeed ensure the pleasure is mutual!”

Buffy blushed furiously at his innuendo and couldn’t look him in the eye.

“Sorry love didn’t mean to embarrass you.” Spike said, looking like he meant it, until one saw the glint in his eyes.

“Uh huh, and pigs fly.” Buffy snarked back.

Spike leaned over Buffy, bracing his hands on the arms of her chair, effectively trapping her. “Sorry pet, but I’ve just got to know, it’s been driving me nuts for the past few hours.”

“Know what Spike?” Buffy asked as he leaned closer.

“How your lips taste...” he murmured, right before capturing her mouth with his in a gentle yet heated kiss.

Buffy gasped at the feel of his soft, cool lips on her own, and this gave Spike the perfect opportunity to deepen the kiss, as his tongue gently slid between her parted lips, to tangle with her own tongue. Spike rumbled softly deep in his chest as he heard Buffy’s low moan, and had to fight to keep his hands to himself.

After a few moments, which seem liked eons, Spike drew back slowly, allowing Buffy to breathe, while still nipping at her lips with his own. “Like honey, and sunshine, and soft spring rains…” he whispered against her slightly swollen lips. “And so addictive…”

Buffy’s eyes drifted shut, lost in the hazy pleasure that Spike was giving her with his soft, nibbling kisses. “Spike…” she whispered.

“What love?” he murmured as he traced the tip of his tongue across her lips, before allowing it to dive back between her parted lips, into the warmth of her mouth. Lifting one hand off the chair, he cupped the back of her head, holding her in place as he deepened the kiss. Changing the angle slightly, his kisses went from gentle and sweet, to hard and demanding as he plundered her warm, wet mouth with his agile tongue.

Placing both her hands on his chest, Buffy pushed gently, then harder when Spike refused to back off. Breaking free of his heated kiss, she gasped, “Spike, stop… please.”

Giving in to her soft plea, Spike released the back of her head, resting his forehead against hers, panting softly. “Sorry pet, but as I said… so damned addictive. I won’t apologize for kissing you, and chances are I will do it as often as you let me. Just don’t shut me out.”

Buffy placed a gentle hand on his cheek. “I won’t shut you out Spike. Just don’t try and force me to do anything. Okay?”

“Never love, I would never force you to do anything you didn’t want to do. Not that I think I could anyway.” Spike said with a small smirk. “I have the feeling you could and would break me in half if I tried.”

“Now that we have that settled. And you are so right by the way. I could break you in half, or at least into teeny tiny pieces.” Buffy said with a soft chuckle. “I really do need to know why you aren’t out there trying to hurt, kill, or any of the other things vampires do to keep themselves amused.”

Standing up, Spike looked down at Buffy, a serious expression on his face. “Okay love, I’ll try and explain to you, but it’s a little difficult. At times I don’t understand it myself.” He bent over and slipped his hands underneath Buffy, effectively scooping her into his arms. “However, before I begin, let’s get comfy.” At this, he turned around and sat in the chair that Buffy had just been in, settling her on his lap. He looked at Buffy, his eyes dropping to her lips and he groaned softly. “One last kiss, and then I’ll start…” he murmured as he gently dropped a soft kiss on her lips, licking and nipping at them. “God love, you taste so good. I could do this forever.”

Pulling away slightly, Buffy placed a hand on his chest. “Okay Kissy-face, spill. No more smoochies till you explain to me the enigma that is you.”

Spike laughed, and started to talk.

“It was over a hundred years ago that I was turned, and I remember it like it was yesterday, ” Spike began. “Father had passed away a mere fortnight prior, and my family was still in mourning. However, matters of his estate drew me to London , and to his solicitors, who insisted that I accompany them to a small gathering of sorts. It so happened that my mother, in all manner of being concerned for my continuing bachelor status, had requested of my father’s solicitors that I be introduced to eligible young ladies whilst I was in London .”



Buffy gazed at Spike, not making any sound, but a small smile graced her lips.



“I know what you are thinking love , and you are wrong. I wasn’t the epitome of an English Rake. I was rather more… sedate. I preferred my studies at Oxford over the pointless pursuits of the other people of my station.” Spike chuckled softly. “Lot of good that did me though.”



Spike ran his fingers through his hair, loosening the gel and freeing up his riotous curls. “At any rate, at this so-called gathering, I was introduced to all manner of proper young Victorian Misses.” Spike snorted in irony. “Proper enough to tell a man off for being forward, but the worst of cackling hens when it came to rumor and the spreading of such.”



Buffy wiggled a little, shifting position slightly, trying to find a comfortable position.



“Oi, you don’t be wanting to do that, love . Drive me out of my mind you will, ” Spike remarked as Buffy’s shifting caused a tightening of jeans.



“Sorry Spike.” Buffy said with widening eyes as she felt something… hard… underneath her.



Spike placed his hands on Buffy’s waist, and shifted her himself, until she was straddling his lap. He slouched a little in the chair, and brought her firmly down on top of the rock hard bulge in his jeans, and held her there. “There, I’m comfy; you look comfy, and let’s get on with this sordid tale then.”



Buffy gasped at the feel of Spike pressed firmly up against her and looked at him with wide eyes. “Spike... I really think I should m…”



“Nope, you ain’t gonna move. You are gonna sit right there and listen to me.” Spike gave her a salacious smirk, “Wiggle away, I know I’ll enjoy it, and I bet you will too.”



Buffy felt her face grow hot as she flushed in embarrassment.



“Dammit Buffy…” Spike muttered, as he clasped the back of her neck in one hand, and brought her face down to his. “Gotta… do… this…” He smashed his mouth to hers, his tongue forcefully thrusting its way into her mouth. His other hand kept a tight grip on her hip, holding her steady as he ground up against the apex of her thighs. He broke the kiss as suddenly as he had started it, panting harshly. “What I wouldn’t give to see you in this same position, flushed with pleasure.” Spike gripped her hips with both hands, and thrust sharply upwards, eliciting a soft gasp from Buffy. “If I was smarter, I’d let you off my lap, but I seem to be a glutton for punishment where you are concerned love . So I’m gonna hold you right there, your heat searing me through my jeans…” Spike took a deep breath, “and that lovely aroma perfuming the air. And I will tell you all about myself.”



Buffy sat there, eyes wide, breath coming in harsh pants, as the sensations Spike had caused (and was still causing) darted throughout her body. “O-okay Spike.” She managed to get out breathlessly.



“Right, well the party was a right bore. All those uptight little prissy misses and the even more uptight wankers looking down their noses at me, simply because I preferred literature and poetry to hunting and cards. But, I stayed at the party. Mostly because I was being watched like a hawk by my father’s solicitors. Then I saw her, she was bewitching and ethereal. My Dark Princess.” Spike said this last with more than a hint of wistfulness.



Buffy looked at him with what seemed like shock, and she started wiggling. “Let me go Spike, if you think I’m gonna sit here while you reminisce about another woman…”



“OI! Sit still pet. And pay attention. I am NOT thinking about anyone else beyond what I need to think of to answer the bloody question you asked me.” Spike said with some annoyance.



Buffy stopped moving, peering down at Spike with a perturbed expression. “Okay, okay, sitting still. But get on with it.”





“Anyway, she had the darkest hair I’d ever seen, all pulled up, with sparkling diamonds woven through her dark curls. Her eyes were the color of the sky just before night falls, that dark dark blue color that is almost black. And I fell straight into them.” Spike shook his head and laughed in self-deprecation . “Next thing I remember, I was outside, pressed up against the wall of the building with that girl latched onto me, whispering things in my ears. Strange things about knights and princes and sunshine and forever . Weird girl. Anyway, she starts kissing my neck, which let me tell you, took me by complete surprise. Then I felt it. A sharp piercing pain in my throat, and then the most intense pleasure I had ever felt up to that point.”



Spike sighed gently, “I don’t remember much after that, except feeling faint, and my sight growing dim. I do remember thinking that I must be fainting, which was a rather odd thing for a gentleman to do.”



Buffy slid her arms around Spike’s neck, holding his head to her breasts. “So this ‘dark princess’ was the one who turned you?”



Spike nuzzled the small strip of skin between Buffy’s breasts, it being visible just above the neckline of her red shirt. “No, she’s the one who drained me, but she didn’t turn me. She left that up to the Grand Poof, Angelus.”



Grasping the hair on the back of Spike’s head, Buffy yanked his head back sharply. “Angelus is your Sire? You have got to be kidding me!”



“HEY! Let go of the hair. And no joke, he Sired me. As much as I’d like to forget that part, it’s the truth. But the worst was yet to happen…” Spike trailed off as Buffy stopped pulling on his hair and started stroking the back of his head tenderly.

“Worse than being killed and turned into a vampire?” Buffy asked.

“Yeah… way worse. Especially to a young Victorian lad like myself,” Spike muttered quietly. Taking a deep, but unneeded breath, Spike continued. “The next thing I knew, I was lying in my coffin. Thought at first it was a practical joke, but I quickly discovered that I didn’t need to breathe. And it was easy to dig my way out, so I figured out I was super strong as well. Then there was the hunger. Not just the ‘I’m hungry, I should eat something’ hunger. But the ‘I’m gonna die if I don’t eat something NOW’ hunger.”

“Ahhh, you mean like a teenager?” Buffy quipped.

“Worse love, very much worse.” Spike rubbed the back of his neck with one hand. “Anyway, there I am, digging myself up out of my coffin, my hands just breaking free of the soil, when I’m yanked upwards rather abruptly. And there he was, the giant poof.”

“You mean he just yanked you up out of the ground? Like you were a carrot or something?” Buffy asked indignantly.

“Yup. And lemme tell ya, it wasn’t pleasant.” Spike buried his head against Buffy’s chest and whispered the next part.

“Umm… excuse me, what did you say?” Buffy tapped him on the top of his head.

Spike mumbled again, his words muffled against Buffy’s skin.

“Okay, mumbly. Lift that head and speak clearly please.” Buffy requested.

“Luv, I don’t think I need to be sharing everything’ that happened to me in the past 120 years… and you sure as hell don’t need to be hearing’ of the poof’s depravity against the helpless.” Spike looked at her beseechingly.

“Okay Spike. You are right. What I need to know is why you aren’t all with the killing of the innocents. And in fact seem hell-bent on protecting said innocents.” Buffy said.

Spike nodded and whispered, “Ta Luv. It’s not something I really enjoyed the first time round and I sure don’t enjoy reliving it.”

Buffy simply nodded and ran her fingers through Spike’s hair, loosening the curls and playing with them.

Spike nuzzled her chest for a moment, just enjoying the feel of her fingers in his hair. “Okay pet, here goes the whys and wherefores of me being all soft.”

Buffy giggled softly, “From where I’m sitting Spike, you don’t feel soft.”

Spike smirked and gave a sharp thrust upwards. “What can I say pet, you seem to inspire me to all kinds of hardness.”

Buffy blushed hotly and smacked him on the shoulder. “SPIKE!”

Giving a wry chuckle, Spike winked and continued, “Well, shortly after Angelus was finished informing me of my place in the ‘family’, I did everything in my power to convince them that I had no living family. Seems the poof had a yen for killing families. I managed to convince them, thank God.”

Buffy nodded. “I’ve heard of the things he did to his own family when he was turned. It’s a good thing he believed you when you told him you didn’t have any family.”

“Yeah, I know. He bragged about it for damned near 20 years.” Spike sighed softly. “Damned poof, always needing to be told how evil and perfect he is…” Spike trailed off into silence for a moment, clearly gathering his thoughts. “Okay, I spent a little over 20 years with the idiot brigade, which consisted of Angelus, his Sire Darla, and his Childe Drusilla. Nothing I did seemed to be evil enough for the wanker. Either that or he seemed to enjoy putting me in my place. And he did that a hell of a lot.”

Buffy simply sat on his lap, looking at his face, absorbing his every facial expression, which told her more than his words did.

“Round about the start of the 21st year with the tiresome trio, I heard about Slayers.” Spike snickered. “One thing you got to know love. It ain’t about the killing and the feeding for me. It’s about the fight. And I do love a good fight. Anyway, I decided to see if I could find me one of these Slayers.”

Buffy poked him sharply in the chest. “You went LOOKING for a Slayer? Death wish much Blondie?”

“Still here ain’t I pet? Got to say though, it was the best fight I’d ever had to that point. Ran across the bint in China during the Boxer Rebellion. We fought; she sliced me with her sword. Which is where I got this scar by the way.” Spike ran one finger across the scar on his eyebrow. “I managed to get close enough to bite her, and just before my fangs entered her throat, she said something to me which I never did understand. I drained her, and walked out. Then proceeded to kick the living shit out of the poof.”

Buffy grinned, “Got a little of your own back then huh?”

“Sorta. See what I didn’t know was that a couple years prior the idiot decided that gypsies were the thing to play with. He picked on the wrong girl, and they decided to get revenge. They cursed him with a soul.”

“Wait a sec, he killed one of their own… and they gave him his soul for it?” Buffy asked consternation in her eyes.



“Didn’t say it was HIS soul, now did I… just said A soul. Shoulda known something was up, he was almost trying too hard to be the big evil he used to be.” Spike mused.

“At any rate, after I kicked his arse, I took off. Decided to head off on my own, do some contemplation on what my existence should be now, ya know? Traveled around a bit, found out that kicking demon arse was more of a challenge than fighting humans. Took up the hunt for the nasties that preyed on innocent people. Ran that way for a few decades, looking in on my human family every so often, making sure they were okay. That’s how I ran across the Watcher. He was being chased by some ugly-assed demon named Elgion or something like that. Saved his arse, found out he was related to me, and the rest is history.” Spike shrugged. “When he was sent here, I followed him. Kept him outta as much trouble as I could, then he hooked up with the kids and whatnot. Met Joyce and the Bit. Now I just keep them outta trouble as much as I can. Kill the things that try and hurt em, all kinds of stuff like that.” Spike trailed off, his mind elsewhere.

“So, its 'cause Giles is family that you help him, but you started helping people long before that. Ya know Spike; I think you are just one of the few demons who actually have a conscience. I like it.” Buffy tried to stifle a yawn.

“Here now, I’ve kept you up listening to me ramble on. You need to get some sleep pet.” Spike said.

“I think I do, guess I should go look for a hotel or something.” Buffy said, yawning again.

“Nothing doin' pet. You can sleep here. In fact…” Spike trailed off, as he stood up, holding Buffy in his arms as he did so. “You can crash in my bed. Promise not to take advantage love.”

Buffy didn’t reply, as she had fallen fast asleep, cradled in Spike’s arms.

Spike made his way through the kitchen to the basement stairs, cradling Buffy against his chest. She seemed so peaceful, resting against him like that; he didn’t have the heart to wake her up. Without turning the light on, Spike made his way, down the stairs, to the ‘vamp-proof’ suite Joyce had had constructed for him. He carried her across the carpeted floor to his king-sized bed and gently laid her down on the satin-covered, down-filled comforter.

“Pet, I’m sure you will be more comfortable without those blasted boots you are wearing” Spike said, as he knelt at the side of the bed and started to unlace the thigh-high, stiletto-heeled boots. “How can women walk in these things? Never mind that! How can you fight in them?” Spike asked the sleeping girl on his bed.

He placed her boots against the wall by the door, and then removed his own Docs and placed them beside hers. “Looks like they belong together, huh pet?” Spike said with a small laugh and turned back to the bed on which Buffy lay.

Buffy shifted slightly, a small frown on her face, as she tried to get comfortable.

“Hmmm, that vest-thing you are wearing can’t be that entirely comfy kitten. Let me see if we can make you comfortable with its removal.” Suiting action to words, Spike slid onto the bed beside Buffy and began to unlace the front of her vest. “Pet, this thing has metal in it.” Spike looked at the vest more closely. “Hrmm, it seems to resemble a corset. Why in the hell would you want to wear this bloody thing?” He stripped the laces from the front of the corset-like vest and tossed them aside. Slipping his right arm under her back, he gently lifted her into a sitting position and slid the rest of the vest from her body.

Buffy sighed softly in her sleep, as Spike let his eyes roam over her newly uncovered red silk shirt.

“Pet, I gotta say, you have fantastic taste in clothes, despite the predilection for torturing yourself with them.” Spike’s fingers moved to the buttons on her shirt of their own volition, nimbly undoing them, baring her smooth, creamy skin to his eager eyes. He slipped the shirt from her torso, unable to resist running his thumb across the swell of her tanned breast, and play with her dark rose-colored nipple which hardened at his touch.

Taking a deep, un-needed breath, Spike laid her back on the bed, drinking in the sight of her tanned torso contrasting sharply with the black satin of his comforter. Rising from the bed, Spike folded her shirt carefully and placed it on the dresser across from the end of the bed. Retrieving her vest, and the laces, from where he had tossed them, he placed them with the shirt.

“Okay, don’t stake me or nothing, but a half-dressed girl can not be comfortable. Those pants have to come off.” Spike knelt on the bed, his hands hovering over her hips, licking his lips. “Gotta play nice here mate. You promised the girl you wouldn’t take advantage,” Spike muttered to himself.

Buffy squirmed as though she could hear him, but remained asleep.

Muttering to himself about self-restraint and vampiric senses that played havoc with his libido, he swiftly unlaced the sides of her leather pants, loosening them enough to slide off her legs. He swiftly removed himself from the bed and stood there, her pants in his hands, his eyes glued to her nude body spread out on his bed.

Her hair spread out like a golden cloud, her face gentle in sleep, a small smile on her pale pink lips. Spike groaned as he took in her pert tits, topped with the rosy points of her hard nipples. He dropped her pants on the floor as he stripped off his own shirt and cast it aside.

His eyes slid down to her narrow waist, with its cute little indentation of a belly button. He smirked as he noticed a small, sparkling sapphire belly-ring adoring it. As his eyes slid over the swell of her hips and down her long, slender legs, his hands worked feverishly at his belt and pants. Dragging his eyes back up her legs, he dropped his pants and kicked them across the floor.

Closing his eyes for a moment, Spike wrapped his left hand around the base of his hard cock and gave it a gentle squeeze. “Oh Buffy pet. If I don’t do something I’m gonna explode. Forgive me….” He opened his eyes and allowed his gaze to rest on the juncture of her thighs.

Licking his lips at the sight of her bare pussy, he took a deep breath and noticed the lingering smell of her earlier arousal. Groaning softly he started to slide his hand up and down his rock-hard erection, sliding his thumb over the head of it and pressing down gently on each stroke.

Buffy moved slightly on the bed, getting more comfortable. This had the effect of parting her legs just enough to give Spike a perfect view of her hairless cunt.

“Oh god Buffy, I wanna taste you so bad, the scent is driving me insane,” Spike murmured as his stroking picked up speed a little. Feeling himself reaching the pinnacle of his self-pleasuring, he reached down with his right hand and gave his balls a gentle squeeze. Muttering to himself as he furiously wanked himself off… ”I wanna feel your tight li'l hole wrapped around my cock… mmm bet it would feel sooo warm and wet…” With a muffled groan Spike climaxed abruptly, his cold, creamy ejaculate spewing forth in globs to land on the rug beside the bed.

Sighing softly to himself, Spike slid almost bonelessly onto the bed beside Buffy, pulling a thick blanket over them both. Buffy turned in her sleep, snuggling up against the vampire who had just gotten himself off while looking at her naked body. Spike wrapped his arms around the naked nymph in his bed, and fell asleep listening to the calm rhythm of her heart beating.

Buffy snuggled deeper into the cool embrace of the person holding her, luxuriating in the feel of being held and feeling safe for the first time in what felt like years. Sleepily blinking her eyes, she tried to focus on her surroundings and remember where she was. And more importantly, who she was with.



As she stretched, the arms around her tightened their hold, bringing her into closer contact with the person... the very naked person... that was holding her. Buffy suddenly realized that she was naked as well, and frantically tried to remember how she came to be that way.



About the same time as Buffy recalled her last conscious memory as being upstairs talking to Spike, she felt long, cool fingers cup and gently squeeze both her tits, and soft lips press cool, gentle kisses across her shoulder and the back of her neck.



A strangled gasp was torn from her throat as the hand that had been playing with her left breast, slid down her torso and was now sliding cool fingers between her legs, cupping and teasing her suddenly damp pussy. Buffy arched back against the firm body of what, or so her mind insisted, had to be Spike, and moaned deep in her throat as she felt a hard, throbbing pressure against her backside.



As Spike ground his erection against her firm ass, his right hand cupped and squeezed her right breast, teasing the nipple into a hardened peak. And with each shallow thrust against her ass, he slid one finger up and down her moist slit, rubbing and circling her throbbing clit.



Buffy reached back with her left hand and grabbed at Spike's firm ass, moaning at the sensations he was arousing in her.



Spike slid his left leg between hers, opening her up a little for his teasing fingers. He pressed his aching cock firmly against her ass and slowly pushed one finger into her hot, wet hole. With his cock wedged firmly between them, and sliding along the cleft of her ripe ass, he began to pump his finger slowly in and out of her tight, wet pussy.



The feel of his gentle invasion of her aroused body caused Buffy to sink her nails into the flesh of Spike's ass.



The sharp pain caused by Buffy's nails woke Spike out of what he assumed to be a pleasant dream. His eyes opened wide as he realized that the wet heat surrounding his left index finger was real and not his imagination. Spike froze as he finally came to the realization as to who was in his bed with him.



"Spike!" Buffy gasped as he stopped the slow pumping of his finger. "Don't stop, damn you. Don't you dare stop!"



Spike grinned as he realized that she was highly aroused and that he had made her that way while he was sleeping. He resumed pumping his finger into her tight pussy and rolled her right nipple between the thumb and forefinger of his other hand. Placing his lips against her ear he started whispering, "You like that, yeah? You like my finger in your hot little cunt don't ya? So tight, so warm, so wet. All for me... MMM... that’s it pet, fuck yourself on my finger."



Buffy rocked her hips in counter-point to Spike’s pumping finger, moaning loudly, her breath coming in harsh pants.



Spike ground his hard, throbbing cock against her tight little ass and murmured, “See how hard you make me Love? With your hot little body pressed against me, your perky tit in my hand and your tight little pussy wrapped around my finger?” Pumping his finger deeper inside of Buffy, Spike noticed a thin obstruction. ‘No way’ he thought to himself ‘not possible’.



Just then, Buffy arched sharply against him, rubbing her ass in circular motions against his cock, making him loose track of his thoughts. “More Spike… please… more…” Buffy gasped.



“Want more baby? Want another finger inside your tight cunt? Hmmm?” Spike whispered in her ear as he slipped a second finger inside her wet hole. Spike pumped his fingers hard and deep inside her hot pussy, roughly rubbing her clit with his thumb. “That’s it Buffy, cum for Spike, yeah? Cum all over my fingers. Oh ya baby girl, that’s it, you love my fingers in your pussy don’t ya…” Spike murmured in her ear as he drove his fingers hard inside of her.



Buffy threw her head back and let out a shriek as her entire body seemed to dissolve into a kaleidoscope of sensation. “OH GOD SPIKE!”



“That’s it baby, let go. Let yourself feel it. Yeah… oh fuck your pussy is so tight around my fingers…” Spike growled low in his chest as he pulled Buffy sharply against him, pressing his aching cock against her ass. “Oh fuck Buffy!!” Spike shouted as he came against her ass, spilling his cold semen against her soft skin.



Buffy lay trembling against Spike, her body spasming with the aftershocks of her orgasm. She could feel her inner muscles clenching and unclenching around Spike’s fingers, which were still imbedded inside her pussy. “Oh… that was…” Buffy trailed off, unable to find the proper words to describe what had just happened.



Spike panted against Buffy’s neck. “I agree pet, that was… definitely… something else, wasn’t it?



Buffy giggled softly. “Spike… did you just… ummm…. you know… against my ass?”



“Yeah, I did pet. Thought I had more control than that, but I guess you just drive me beyond my control.” Spike thought for a moment and then asked quietly, “Love, are you okay with what happened? I mean I know you haven’t had… well… sex before…”



Buffy interrupted in a quiet tone, “Spike, I am fine with what just happened. Didn’t plan on this happening, at least not now, but I’m okay with it. And if you mean that I am still virgo intacta, you’d be correct.” Buffy shrugged and continued. “Never found someone who could make me feel like you did, and still do. I mean I feel safe, and cherished. Thank you.”



Spike snuggled her closer to him and smiled against her hair. “You are welcome Buffy. And you are safe and cherished.”



Both of the blondes looked up sharply as the door at the top of the stairs opened and Dawn yelled down at them. “Get your lazy bums upstairs you two. The gang is all here and is asking questions that make Giles stutter. Hurry up!” The door slammed shut as if on emphasis to Dawn’s last words.



“Guess we better get up then, and see what’s going on upstairs” Spike said as he wiggled his fingers that were still inside Buffy.



“Spike!” Buffy gasped. “Stop it, or we will never leave this bed.”



“Fine by me pet. I would enjoy making you cum for the rest of my existence” Spike said, as he slowly pulled his fingers from Buffy’s pussy and leaned over her so she could see his face. He brought his wet fingers to his mouth and licked them clean. “MMM, tastes divine. Can't wait to taste it from the source… later.”



With those words Spike hopped from the bed and gave Buffy a small slap on her exposed ass. “Here, pet, toss this on. It’ll save time what with not having to lace yourself into that vest of yours.” Spike tossed her one of his black t-shirts as he pulled on his jeans. “Let’s go see what the idiot brigade wants now."

Buffy picked up the shirt Spike had tossed her and just sat there looking at it.

“Something wrong love?” Spike asked, seeing her lack of response.

“We need to talk, Spike, about certain misconceptions and expectations you may have of me,” Buffy quietly murmured.

“Why don’t I like the sound of that,” Spike remarked as he sat heavily on the end of the bed.

“Depends on how you will take what I’m about to say.” Buffy sighed gently. “First off, let me say that I enjoyed what happened this morning, and I don’t regret it at all.”

Spike just sat there, looking at her, waiting patiently for what he assumed was going to be a major brush off.

“When you said that I hadn’t had sex before, you were mistaken, but given my physical condition it’s perfectly understandable,” Buffy informed him quietly.

“I’m not sure I understand pet. I mean I FELT that little barrier and you said…” Spike started to say.

“I said I was intact, not that I hadn’t had sex before,” Buffy interrupted.

“How is that possible, unless the guys were that small…?” Spike trailed off with a smirk on his face.

“It’s a little hard to explain, but…” Buffy paused for a moment, gathering her thoughts, and then nodded abruptly. “You might understand given your nature.” Buffy smiled gently at Spike. “See, I was a virgin when I died the first time, and ever since then my body heals all physical damage quite rapidly. And since the tearing of the hymen does involve physical damage…” She trailed off, blushing a little.

Spike gave her a heated look. “So, what you are saying is, no matter how many times you have sex, your virginity repairs itself?”

“Yup, that’s me, the eternal virgin,” Buffy said with a sardonic twist to her lips.

“How long does it take to repair between… sessions?” Spike asked as he was very interested in the whole idea.

“Not really sure, but it shouldn’t take a long time for something that small,” Buffy said, then giggled. “I meant the membrane. Not, you know, your dick.”

“Ta love. Glad you don’t think this,” and he cupped his denim-covered cock, “is small.”

“From what I’ve seen, and felt, you are far from small, and I can’t wait to see if it feels as good as it looks,” Buffy said with a slight grin and a blush.

Spike ran one hand down the side of her face as he leaned forward. Cupping her chin, he pressed his lips to hers in a gentle kiss. “Soon pet, soon. I’ll let you play with it all you want, provided you let me find out if you taste as wonderful as you smell.” Spike took a deep, exaggerated breath and grinned wolfishly.

“Deal,” Buffy said with a heavy blush. “Now, before everyone upstairs comes down here, I think we need to go see what all the fuss is about with the ‘idiot brigade’ as you called them."

Sliding from the bed, Buffy indulged in a long, tendon-popping stretch, completely unaware of the effect her actions were having on Spike. As she donned the shirt, and headed towards the stairs, she glanced back at him and giggled.

Standing up to follow her, Spike caught her eye and boldly adjusted himself and said with a smirk, “You look better in my shirt than I do, baby.”

They ascended the stairs into the kitchen where Buffy grabbed a cup of coffee and Spike heated up a mug of blood. Each carrying their respective beverage, they headed into the living room. Buffy made a bee-line for the chair she had occupied last night, seeing as it was the only one free. Ignoring the looks she was getting, she tugged Spike down to sit on the arm of the chair.

“Holy… LEGS! Why is she showing off her naked legs? And why is she wearing Spike’s shirt?” Xander started ranting. “Please don’t tell me he seduced her in such a short time.”

“Alexander Harris, what my mother chooses to do, and with whom, is her choice and none of your business. Don’t you start trying to ‘protect’ her from what you perceive to be something wrong,” Joyce berated him. “Or so help me; I’LL start cutting parts off.”

“HEY! Hold on a sec, Mrs. Summers. I didn’t mean to insult Buffy,” Xander paused and seeing the look on Joyce’s face, continued, “Or Spike. It just took me by surprise, all the legs and skin and naked legs.”

Anya reached over and smacked Xander on the back of his head. “Quit staring at Buffy’s legs. Yes they are nice legs, but they are her legs, and maybe Spike’s legs. NOT yours, so keep your eyes off of hers and on mine. Or there will be no orgasms for you for a week!” Anya stated with a firm nod.

Buffy turned sideways a little, curling up in the chair, making sure to keep her ass covered as she leaned against Spike.

“Okay, you guys sent Dawn down to wake us up. What was so all-fired important?” Buffy asked.

At that point Giles walked out of the downstairs bathroom. “Oh good, they are up.” He blinked and took off his glasses. “Why is Buffy wearing Spike’s shirt?”

“Don’t go there G-man. I did and it got really weird. What with Mrs. Summers threatening to chop off my parts.” Xander said.

“I see. Then I shall refrain from mentioning it, and continue with the questions I have,” Giles said as he polished his glasses and put them back on.

Buffy looked up at Spike and rolled her eyes. “Damn, and here I was hoping they got us up here to feed us pizza or something,” she whispered.

“If I may, Buffy. Can I start by asking you about your sword? I’ve read a few texts on one that seems identical and was wondering…” Giles started to ask.

Buffy interrupted him. “Chill Jeeves, it is the same sword. There was only one made, and it was made as a birthday present for me, by my father. It has never been in anyone else’s hands but mine. So do you want to know who made it? What it can do? Or if the rumors about it are true?”

“All of the above, I’m afraid. If it’s not too much trouble.” Giles said in an apologetic tone.

“Okay ladies and gents, prepare for a long night. Joycie, order up some Chinese and Pizza, I’m paying. Oh, and see if they can deliver a couple bottles of wine, maybe a sparkling cider for my little sunrise, and a bottle of Jack for the gentlemen.” Buffy looped one arm over Spike’s leg and gave it a gentle squeeze. “I’ll tell you all about my sword: who made it, who I am… and more importantly, why I am here.

Buffy picked up the sword and unsheathed it. Its silver hilt gleamed dully in the light from the lamps around the room, while the ebony blade seemed to simply absorb what light struck it. “As I stated before, the sword was a gift from my father, on my 16th birthday. I believe his words regarding the making of the sword were…” Buffy trailed off, lost in thought. “Oh yes, ‘Forged in the fires of hell, cast from the bones of eternity, and tempered in the blood of a Dragon’s Heart’. He told me the sword has a soul, and I believe it.”

“A sword with a soul. Well, can’t be all that different than a vampire with a soul, now can it?” Xander quipped. “Except I’d warrant the sword is more useful.”

Everyone laughed at Xander’s remark.

“Sure is… at least the sword doesn’t go all pervy around young girls,” Joyce muttered under her breath.

Giles cleared his throat to get everyone’s attention. “Now then, ‘Forged in the fires of hell’ is, I’m assuming a metaphor for something?”

“Nope, it means what it says. Father used the very fires of hell to forge the sword, which is why the blade is black. And as you can see, tends to absorb light. Makes it damned hard to see in the dark.” Buffy’s grin was full of mischief. “Gives me a bit of an edge in night combat.”

“No kidding. When she killed that demon last night, I didn’t SEE the sword hit him. All I saw was her holding this silver thing in her hands, and then poof… his parts were falling off,” Xander said, even as he squirmed at the thought of parts being lopped off.

“Right, then. And the ‘cast from the bones of eternity’ I’m assuming means the material from which it was made?” Giles asked, even as he continued to write.

“Yes. When I asked him, he said it was the same substance from which his forefathers had forged the world-heart. This makes the sword unbreakable.” Buffy replied. “Or at least I have never come across anything that can break it, or even chip it. And that includes lasers. Darius tested it. The dumbass,” Buffy muttered under her breath.

Spike glanced down at where Buffy was almost draped over his legs. “Darius? I seem to have heard that name before. Some kind of monk?”

“Sort of. Darius was a student of mine a while back. I found him just after his first quickening. He came to hate the entire ‘lets kill all the immortals’ routine, and retired to holy ground roughly 200 years ago. He was killed 2 years ago by the Watcher’s Council.” Buffy said.

Willow blinked in confusion. “I thought the Council only watched slayers? Why would they kill this guy, Darius?”

“Because he knew things the council didn’t want anyone to find out. Like the real truth of the creation of the slayer, and what the watchers originally were.” Buffy said with a shrug. “The ass who killed Darius was killed by Duncan shortly afterwards.”

“What was the name of this ass—err watcher?” Giles asked.

“James Horton. Apparently his murder of Darius was a means to draw Mac out into the open. He had this theory that Duncan was out to take over the world.” Buffy shook her head in disbelief. “Mac doesn’t want to take over the world. He’d rather brood and tease the old man.”

Tara asked quietly, “Mac? Duncan? You speak of them like they are the same person.”

It was Dawn who answered. “They are. Duncan Macleod of the Clan Macleod. Most people call him Mac.”

“Interesting, very interesting.” Giles muttered as he wrote down everything. “Now the last point. ‘Tempered in the blood of a dragon’s heart’, are you telling me you father hunted down and killed a dragon just to temper your sword?” he asked with some indignation.

“Nope, he didn’t hunt down a dragon. He IS the Dragon. He stuck the sword into his own chest, bonding the sword to his blood. This means ONLY those of his blood could wield the sword. A kind of security feature you might say.” Buffy replied.

Xander gasped, “Your dad was a dragon? Wow. Betcha that shocked the shit outta your mom.”

“My mother knew what my father is, Xander. He offered her the chance to bear his child and she agreed. There was no force, no coercion. My mother was a priestess in the Temple. She could see the things to come, and knew that a child born of her and my father would one day save all our people. She just forgot to mention the fact that I would also be the cause of the destruction of the city,” Buffy replied gently.

Giles queried. “Buffy, you said your father was a dragon…”

“IS, Giles, IS a dragon. And not just any dragon, but THE Dragon,” Buffy interrupted.

“Could you enlighten me as to his name?” Giles asked softly.

“Sure. His name is Draco. He is one of the Elder Gods. And the only one of them to remain behind when the rest left,” Buffy told everyone.

“GOOD LORD!” Giles exclaimed, jumping to his feet. “You mean… you are… oh lord…” Giles fell to his knees, stuttering and stammering. “The Draconis. The Dragon’s Daughter. She who raised up the Four Horsemen and set them on their dark path.”


“That would be me.” Buffy replied with a smirk.

“Of course she is,” Anya remarked with some exasperation. “You knew about the sword, and you didn’t even think to realize who was holding it?” Turning to Joyce, Anya stated, “I hope he’s good at giving orgasms, because I don’t think he’s much use when it comes to drawing logical conclusions.”

Spike stifled a laugh at Anya’s remarks, noticing that the other ‘Scoobies’, as they referred to themselves, were doing the same.

Joyce laughed softly. “Yes Anya, he’s good at a few things. But it’s not nice to laugh at someone because they were in denial.”

Giles simply knelt on the floor, staring at Buffy, a shocked, almost terrified expression on his face.

Xander asked, “So what’s so important about the sword and the whole horse thing? She uses the sword to kill horses?”

Willow turned to Xander and said with some exasperation, “I think Giles means THE Four Horsemen… of the Apocalypse.” She thought for a moment. “War, Famine, Disease and Death… if I’m not mistaken, what with the whole being Jewish thing and not really understanding the entire non-Jewish things.”

Without taking her eyes off of Giles, Buffy said with a slight grin, “Yup, that would be my boys.” She sighed softly. “I miss those boys sometimes, ya know?”

Spike turned to her and quirked one eyebrow. “Boys? You have more kids than Joyce? Or are we talking different kinds of boys here?”

Joyce answered him, before Buffy could say anything. “By ‘boys’ she means students. She taught them almost everything they knew. She led them too, if Methos wasn’t telling tall tales.”

“M-M-M-ethos?” Giles stuttered. “He’s just a myth, a legend. He’s not real. Doesn’t exist.”

Spike snorted. “Yeah Rupes, and neither do I.” Turning to look down at where Buffy was curled up against him, he told her, “He sure didn’t get my sister’s smarts that’s for sure.”

Buffy laughed softly. “Be nice, Spike. It’s not his fault that he thinks Methos doesn’t exist. We’ve done a hell of a lot of work to make sure that people thinks he isn’t real. Or if he is real, that he’s long dead.” She shook her head and continued, “Did a lot of work to make it seem like I didn’t exist either. It’s safer that way, for everyone concerned.”

Xander blinked and looked at Buffy. “Safer?”

Anya glanced at Buffy and answered Xander. “Yes Xander, safer. If other immortals think she’s already dead, or that she never existed in the first place, they don’t seek her out and try to kill her.”

“Why would anyone want to kill her?” Tara asked softly. “She seems really nice, and her aura is so vibrant, like a rainbow.”

Buffy looked over at Tara and smiled gently. “Thanks sweetie. But sometimes, people simply want to kill you because they think they can.” Buffy shrugged. “And if they are stupid enough to attack me, or mine I don’t mind showing them just how stupid they are.”

Joyce nodded as she said, “Yeah, I remember this one time in college. This guy was hitting on me, refused to take no for an answer. She kicked him the balls, and then offered to introduce him to the word no.” Joyce laughed. “I never saw him run so fast in his life. Even with his balls kicked up between his eyes.”

Anya chuckled wickedly. “Oh I’ve seen her do worse. I remember once when she castrated this guy at the dinner table. He had attacked his host's young daughter; I think she was maybe 12 years old. Anyway, she yanked him up onto the table and just sliced his penis off. With the dinner knife. It was so amusing.” Anya grinned. “Of course it also fulfilled the vengeance wish the little girl made against her attacker.”

Xander looked decidedly pale. “Umm Ahn… can we not discuss the damaging of men’s parts, please?”

Spike nodded in complete agreement. “Yes please, let's not discuss the damaging of manly appendages.”

Buffy ran her fingers lightly across Spike’s crotch. “Okay, no more damage talk.”

Giles seemed to be in a catatonic state, still staring at Buffy, eyes wide.

“Joyce, I think you need to do something about your guy there. He’s starting to creep me out.” Buffy said as she eyed Giles with amusement.

Joyce rose from her chair and walked over to where Giles was kneeling on the carpet. She looked at him and then poked him with her toe. “Get up Rupert. You look like a complete fool.” When that failed to provoke a response, she turned to the tried and true methods every mother knows. She grabbed him by the ear and yanked sharply upwards.

“OUCH!” Giles yelled as he rose to his feet in order to keep his ear attached to his head. “That is totally uncalled for, Joyce.”

“Next time, respond when I talk to you and I won’t have to resort to physical violence,” Joyce responded.

“Right then. Where were we?” Giles asked as he straightened his tie and took his seat again.

Dawn piped up, “We were talking about Buffy and her sword. Oh and the fact that she’s the daughter of a dragon. Hey! Does this mean my grandfather is a dragon? Wicked!” Dawn started to bounce excitedly.

“Yes, right. Swords and dragons and…” Giles trailed off once more as his eyes widened in horror. “Oh Lord. I can’t believe it.” Turning to Joyce he asked her in a very tight, very frustrated voice. “Did you know that your mother is one of the most deadly people in history? Are you aware she is reportedly responsible for the destruction of entire cities, if not entire civilizations?”

“Of course dear. Mother told me who and what she is a long time ago.” Joyce calmly responded.

As Giles’ words finally penetrated the ears and minds of the other people in the room, all hell broke loose.

Everyone began talking at once, getting louder and louder, trying to be heard over top of everyone else. Buffy just sat there, listening and watching, her face expressionless.

Spike shook his head in disbelief at the childishness of the people he had come to call friends. He glanced down at Buffy, intending to make a smart-ass remark about the idiocy of some people, when he noticed the frozen expression and the blankness in her usually expressive eyes. Spike surged to his feet, intending to interrupt the madness that had overtaken the others, and paused in concern when Buffy darted towards the basement.

Feeling Spike rise to his feet, Buffy’s heart constricted once, painfully, and then she decided that she didn’t need all the hoopla that seemed to accompany being around people. She slipped out of the chair and quickly headed towards the basement where her clothing was. Being intent on her goal, she never noticed the concern on Spike’s face at her departure.

Buffy quietly closed the door to the basement and slipped down the stairs like a shadow. Finding her clothing neatly folded on top of the dresser, she started getting dressed. With the ease born of long practice, her nimble fingers laced up the vest Spike had had such trouble with the night before. Slipping her boots on, she made her way back upstairs just in time to hear Spike start in on the people in the living room with him.

“Are you gits finished yet? In case you haven’t noticed you drove Buffy out of the room with your bloody yelling and screaming,” Spike snarked, motioning towards the kitchen and the basement stairs.

“Well, she shouldn’t even be in this house, seeing as she’s evil and everything,” Xander bit back.

Dawn stomped over to Xander and kicked him in the shin. “She’s NOT evil, Xander. If she was, she would have let that demon kill you last night.”

“She only helped us so she could get close, have us trust her and then kill us all in our sleep. I know how evil types work. And that’s what she was planning,” Xander yelled at Dawn, pushing her away from him.

Anya slapped Xander on the back of the head. “Don’t hit Dawn, you idiot. Are you looking to get killed?”

Willow rounded on Anya, shoving her back away from Xander. “Don’t hit Xander! You don’t have the right to hit him. He’s my friend and I’ll make you sorry you ever came to Sunnydale!”

Tara looked from one person to the other, wringing her hands and looking like she was about to cry. She looked over at Joyce and Giles, hoping they could interfere, but saw that they were involved in an argument of their own.

Buffy came back into the room just as Xander shoved Dawn away for the second time, causing her to fall to the floor. She plucked up her sword from where it was leaning against the wall, and in one smooth motion had the sharp tip pressed against Xander’s throat.

Willow’s loud screech, when she noticed the danger her friend was in, brought everyone’s attention to Xander’s plight. Loud gasps were heard from everyone in the room. Everyone that is, except Dawn and Spike.

Spike had seen Xander shove Dawn to the floor and had almost beat Buffy to Xander, a loud growl issuing from his throat.

Dawn scurried across the floor towards her mother, yelling, “He shoved me! He’s nothing but a big meany who shoves little girls!”

Joyce helped Dawn to her feet and made sure she wasn’t hurt. “I think you need to explain to me why you shoved my daughter, Alexander Harris,” Joyce stated calmly.

Buffy interrupted, “I would like that explanation myself. But then again, Mr. Harris here says I’m evil, so I might not even wait for his explanation before I slice his throat. After all, that’s what evil types do. Isn’t it Mr. Harris?” She pressed the tip a little deeper into his neck, causing a bead of blood to well up onto the blade.

Spike smirked at the look of terror on Xander’s face as he calmly stepped up beside Buffy. “Easy luv, we don’t want to hurt the boy… too badly, now do we?”

Not even glancing at Spike, Buffy replied in a calm, cold voice. “I don’t know about you Spike, but I am more than willing to hurt him a lot for the way he treated Dawn.” As she said this, her pupils narrowed to slits and silvery scale patterns appeared on the curve of her cheek and above her eyebrows.

“OH! That’s pretty!” Anya exclaimed. “I’ve never seen you do that before. Is it something new you’ve learned?”

“No Anya, its part of me being who I am. I told you I was a child of the Dragon. Mr. Giles informed you that I am the Dragon’s Daughter. He is correct. My Father is the Elder God who goes by the name of Draco,” Buffy stated calmly. Returning her attention to Xander, who hadn’t moved or even apparently breathed since she put her sword to her throat, Buffy told him, quite calmly, “If I was as evil as you claim I am you would already be dead.”

Giles chose that moment to intervene. “Indeed Xander, nothing in the texts I’ve read indicate that she is in any way evil. Quite the opposite in fact. From what I can discern, she fights to protect the innocent, the ones who can’t protect themselves. I would hazard a guess that that is why you are still breathing.”

Anya piped up, “Of COURSE she protects the innocent you morons! Where in the name of D’Hoffryn do you think a Slayer’s powers came from in the first place? SHE is the source of the Slayer’s powers. Gods, you’d think that little fact would be in the watcher’s books.” Anya sat down in a huff, arms crossed.

Everyone in the room, except Spike, was struck silent by Anya’s matter-of-fact statement.

“So pet, you are a Slayer then? This could get right interesting,” Spike said with a grin.

Buffy just shrugged her shoulders, her eyes never leaving Xander’s terror-stricken face. Then she stuck out her tongue at Xander and, turning her back on him, walked over to the armchair she had been sitting in and sat down as regally as any monarch.

After a cursory glance at Xander, Giles walked over and sat down on the couch close to Buffy. “Is what Anya said true? Are you the source of the Slayer’s power?” he asked quietly.

Spike sat himself back down on the arm of the chair, listening with great interest.

Again Buffy just shrugged as she replied, “So I was informed a while back. Something about atoning for the destruction I caused.” She glanced down at her hands and smiled sheepishly. “The Horsemen weren’t my brightest idea, in retrospect.”

Spike chuckled softly. “If even half the things written about them are true, I’d say it was on par with the poof thinking he can sing… and he can’t sing.”

Giles grimaced in remembrance. “No he can not sing. In fact his so-called singing is akin to scraping nails down a blackboard… only ten times worse.” He looked at Buffy with nothing but curiosity in his eyes. “What sort of powers or abilities do the Slayers gain from you, if you don’t mind me asking?”

“Fast healing, for starters. As a new Slayer… they heal at twice the rate of a normal human. As they get older, their healing gets faster. They also have the ability to sense vampires and other supernatural creatures.” Buffy chuckled softly. “Some of them don’t exactly work on developing that skill though. Oh, and increased flexibility, agility and muscular control. In other words, all the things that makes them an effective warrior.”

“So you can sense demons and vampires?” Spike asked. “Can you tell the difference or is it just a general ‘Big Bad’ alert?”

“For slayers it’s just a general alert… but I can not only tell the difference between a demon and vampire, I can generally tell the difference between different demon species. Also, I can sense all kinds of supernatural energies. Like the power emanating from the redhead over there.” Buffy answered and nodding in the direction of the cluster of ‘Scoobies’.

Giles and Spike both glanced over at the others in the room, noticing with some amusement as Xander winced and cringed every time Joyce dabbed a little antibiotic cream on his neck where Buffy had pricked him with her sword.

Buffy suddenly snapped her head around, eyes unfocused as she seemingly stared at the front door. “That damned idiot can’t seem to take a hint can he? And he’s brought backup.”

“Who has, Luv?” Spike asked as he, too, glanced at the door.
Buffy rose to her feet, sliding her sword from its sheath as she did so. “Get away from the door and windows, children. This could get ugly.” She stalked over to the door, and stopped, facing it.

Spike walked up beside her and asked again, “Who has?” Spike extended his senses and growled low in his chest. “Never mind, I know who. Don’t know who or what he has with him, but I don’t think this is gonna be solved peaceably.”

“No, I don’t think it will either. Because I know who is with him. It's part of the reason I’m here.” Buffy murmured.

Buffy slid a thin-bladed dagger from a hidden sheath in her vest and handed it to Anya. “Check the back door and make sure it’s locked would you? I don’t need anything sneaking up on us.”

“On it Buffy. I’ll take Xander with me so he won’t get in your way.” Anya said, taking the dagger and making her way into the kitchen, dragging Xander with her.

Spike smirked, “So how many more of those things do you have tucked away in your vest?” He ran his eyes across her chest. “And why didn’t I find them last night? Thought that thing was a corset of some kind.”

“It’s a little of both, and here,” Buffy handed him the twin to the dagger she had given to Anya. “Use it in good health.”

Joyce wrapped her arms around Dawn and asked, “Mother, who is out there?”

Without looking at Joyce, Buffy answered her in a hard tone of voice. “Angelus for one, the stupid asshole, approximately 15 various demons, and Hank…” Buffy trailed off on the last name and hoped Joyce hadn’t caught it.

Unfortunately, Giles had and remarked on it. “Hank… as in Hank Summers, Joyce’s ex-husband?”

Joyce gasped and cuddled Dawn closer. “He’s HERE? Why is he here?” Something resembling understanding appeared in Joyce’s eyes. “He is not taking Dawn from me. The judge told him he couldn’t have her, couldn’t even see her. So he is NOT taking her away from me!”

“Relax Joy; he won’t be taking anyone anywhere. Except maybe himself to the morgue.” Buffy said as calmly as she could.

Willow gaped at Buffy. “You mean you are going to kill him for wanting to see his own daughter?”

“No, I’m going to kill him for wanting to use Dawn as a sacrifice to his bosses,” Buffy snapped irritably.

Spike growled audibly and tightened his grip on the dagger. “Red, make yourself useful and put up a barrier around the house… doors and windows.”

“Excellent idea, Spike. I think we need some time to get a little information on this problem.” Giles said. “I’ll give the girls a hand with that barrier spell and mayhap Buffy can fill us in on the details?”

“I’ll tell you what I know, which isn’t much,” Buffy said softly, never taking her eyes off the door. “But we don’t have much time. They’re almost here.”

“Tell us what you can Luv,” Spike said gently.

“Please Mother, if it involves Dawn, I NEED to know,” Joyce looked scared and at the same time indignant.

“Very well,” Buffy said, noticing that everyone else was listening as well. “A couple of months ago, Cassandra had a vision regarding Dawn. The details were sketchy but a couple of things were very clear. One was the New Moon, which is in 2 night’s time…”

Willow interrupted excitedly. “OH! And it’s the winter solstice in 2 nights. Longest night of the year. Oh this isn’t good at all”

“Indeed it isn’t. Added to that is the fact that Cass saw Hank’s face…” Buffy trailed off, looking sheepish. “What took me so long getting here is the fact I did a little digging on Hank. Seems he recently joined a new law firm. Wolfram and Hart.”

“Wolfram and Hart? Isn’t that the law firm in LA? One of the most prestigious from what I understand,” Giles asked, intrigued.

“Yup, that would be them,” Buffy replied.

Spike interrupted, “Why would Hank Summers be working for a demon law firm?”

“Beats me, but I think he likes the benefit package. Extended lifespan, money out the wazoo, lack of scruples,” Buffy snarked. “But part of the application is a sacrifice. A virgin sacrifice. And it’s preferred if the sacrifice is related to the applicant.”

Joyce was outraged, “You mean that lousy son of a bitch wants to sacrifice my daughter so he can get a fucking job with a bunch of demonic lawyers? Over my dead body!”

Xander stepped forward, “Okay G-man, backdoor is secure, as are the upstairs windows. Willow and Tara managed to ward all the doors and windows, but I think we,re running out of time.” Turning to where Joyce and Dawn were sitting, Xander said, “Dawn, Mrs. Summers, I would like to apologize for my behavior towards Dawn earlier. And I just want you to know that nobody is gonna touch Dawn without going through me first.”

“So are we talking complete body sacrifice here, or just a small blood-letting?” Anya asked.

“I looked into it, well as best I could before Joe was locked out of their computer systems. It’s a combined sacrifice. Blood, sex and death combined to seal his bargain with the senior partners.” Buffy stated softly. “Hank has no problem with having sexual relations with minors, it’s the reason the judge didn’t grant him visitation rights. He was caught in flagrante delicto with the underage babysitter. Fortunately, he does have some scruples, and draws the line at incest. Unfortunately, it looks like he found someone, several some ones, to perform the actual ‘physical’ act. Most of which are provided by Wolfram and Hart. All of them in fact, except one, from the looks of it.”

Spike quickly caught on to what she was saying and his eyes bled to pure gold as his demon rushed forth, ready to defend his Nibblet.

Willow’s eyes almost popped out of her head as she came to the logical conclusion. “You mean… he’s gonna let all those demons… Just so he can get a job? Not while I still drawn breath!” Willow was incensed.

“Willow-girl, listen to me. I want you and Tara to take Dawn and Joyce down to the basement, cast a protection spell. Nothing comes in OR out. Take the others as well. I’ll hold them off up here. Anya, I want you to contact D’Hoffryn; he owes me big time. If I cant stop them… I want him to get them out of here.” Buffy started issuing orders, fully expecting the others to follow them.

As everyone started down into the basement, urged on by Joyce, Spike stayed beside Buffy. “I’m not gonna leave you to take on that bunch by yourself Luv. I’ve got your back.”

“Thanks Spike, I just hope we can stop them all. My senses are picking up at least 100 demon signatures.” Buffy said quietly.

“Bring it on, I love a good rough and tumble,” Spike said with a fangy grin.

Buffy glanced towards the basement door, making sure Joyce closed it behind her. “I hope she didn’t hear me about the 100 demon signatures,” she muttered quietly to herself, but Spike overheard her anyway.

“Wondered ‘bout that luv. Care to fill me in on the sudden jump in numbers?” Spike asked.

“I originally said 15 so Joyce wouldn’t get worried,” Buffy replied.

“You takin’ on 15 demons, wouldn’t worry her? Hell, it would worry me,” Spike stated.

“Spike, 7-1 odds are better than 50-1 odds. And frankly it’s the second set of odds that’s got me worried. How long can Willow keep that barrier up?” Buffy inquired as she reached for the door.

Spike shrugged. “No clue luv, I try and stay as far away from that mojo stuff as possible. But with both Tara and Ol’ Ripper helping her, should be a fair piece. Why?”

“If she can keep it up for the next 48 hours, Hank is shit outta luck,” Buffy answered, stepping out onto the porch, closing the door behind them.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Giles stood at the bottom of the basement stairs, checking it over for defensibility and also for a place to set up a casting circle. “Xander, take those scraps of board and block off the windows please.”

“Sure thing G-man,” Xander said, suiting actions to words.

Nodding, Giles next turned to Willow and Tara. “I think if we cast the circle at the foot of the stairs, it will provide us with enough room.” He turned to Anya. “What do you need to contact D’Hoffryn?”

“Not much, just a few words and Buffy’s dagger. I’ll just go over to the corner there. When I’m done I’ll give Willow and Tara a hand with the barrier spell.” Anya stated, turning away.

“I thought you lost your powers when your amulet was destroyed?” Giles inquired with a puzzled look on his face.

“I lost my demon powers, but I was a witch before I was elevated,” Anya answered in an offhanded manner.

“I see. Well I am sure your assistance will be most helpful. Thank you,” Giles stated before turning to Joyce, who had a worried expression on her face. “What is wrong my dear?”

Joyce looked at Giles with deep fear in her eyes. “I heard what Mother said, just before I closed the door. She picked up way more than 15 demon signatures, Rupert. I’m afraid she may be in trouble.”

Wrapping his arms around Joyce, Giles kissed her tenderly. “Don’t worry my dear. Spike is with her. I’m sure that together they can handle anything.”

“I hope so, Rupert. Otherwise, I fear we are all in serious trouble,” Joyce whispered.
Extricating herself from Giles’ arms, Joyce led Dawn over to Spike’s room. “Lie down and try to sleep baby. Everything will be just fine.” Joyce sank wearily into the chair by the door and tried not to look as terrified as she felt.

Xander kept an eye on everyone while he boarded up the windows, ensuring that they were securely fastened before he hammered up the boards.

Tara and Willow, using a piece of camping charcoal they had found, were drawing a circle at the base of the stairs and discussing how best to erect a barrier around the house.

“I think we should ward the basement first, and then the rest of the house,” Willow was saying.

Tara shook her head and replied, “No, we should ward the whole house first, outside, and then inside, then ward the kitchen, and then the basement door, and bottom of the stairs. And set up 2 more wards between us and Spike’s room. Then ward his room.”

Having heard the conversation, Giles interjected a question, “Why so many wards, and with Spike’s room last?”

“It’s something my grandmother told me about, how the destruction of one ward can be used to strengthen the subsequent wards. So if we start outside the house, and that ward gets breached, it will strengthen the next ward, inside the house,” Tara replied confidently.

Anya inserted herself into the conversation as she joined them. “D’Hoffryn agrees with Tara, and has promised to yank us all out of here if the ward on Spike’s room is attacked. I’d suggest making the wards permeable to those of us here. So we can get into the room when the demons make it to the basement.”

“Wait… you said ‘when’. Why did you say when, Anya?” Xander asked, concerned.

Anya glanced around, making sure that neither Joyce nor Dawn could hear her. “Buffy is up against way more than the 15 demons she mentioned before we all came downstairs. D’Hoffryn indicated we may be in trouble.”

“Right then. Let’s get these wards in place, starting just outside the walls of the house,” Giles stated, gesturing them into place.

Xander, knowing he wasn’t of any use in this casting, took up position just outside the door to Spike’s room, doing his best impersonation of an immovable object.

The other 4 took their places, and began the complex construction of the first ward.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

As the door clicked shut, Buffy felt the tell-tale tingle of a barrier ward being erected. “Looks like they got the house protected, time to get rid of the unwelcome guests.”

Spike grinned and bounced lightly on the balls of his feet. Let’s go get ‘em then.”

“Before I forget…” Buffy slid a thin-bladed dagger out of its hidden sheath in her vest, “C’mere.” Slicing the tip of her finger, Buffy grinned up at Spike.

“Hey now, no need to go damaging yourself before the fight,” Spike all but growled.

Buffy smiled enigmatically and gently rubbed her bleeding finger across Spike’s bottom lip. “Clean that off will ya?” As he licked his lips, savoring the taste of her, Buffy muttered a couple of words under her breath. “There, all set. Now they can’t kill you by the normal ways. Not while I’m alive anyway. Let’s go do this.” Turning to face the approaching horde, she missed the look of complete confusion, mixed with adoration on Spike’s face.

Gripping her sword loosely in her right hand, with the pommel down and the blade resting alongside the underside of her arm, point towards the night sky, Buffy stepped down off the front porch and stopped, feet slightly spread, looking completely relaxed.

Spike followed her, eyes focused on the mass of approaching demons. “Looks like this could be a right blast, pet,” he said, as he took up position on her left side.

“Oh yeah. It’s gonna be a real fun time Spike,” Buffy replied. “Blood, guts and dismemberment. Just like I’m used to.” Casting a quick glance over the approaching horde, Buffy singled out one opponent. “I’m gonna take out the ass with the katana first, so you can use it, Spike.”

“Okay pet, be careful. Don’t want you getting hurt.” Spike glanced at the katana-wielding demon. “Bugger looks vicious.”

“Oh, he is, but not as vicious as me.” With that said, Buffy launched herself across the distance between herself and the demon. Before the demon could bring its weapon up to defend itself, Buffy brought her sword in a vicious arc across in front of her body, neatly decapitating it. Scooping up the katana, she tossed it towards Spike, who caught it in mid-air as he darted across the space between him and Buffy.

“Okay, that was… neat,” Spike said as he stopped beside Buffy once more.

“Really, did you have to do that?” A well-dressed, human-seeming male asked as he stepped forward from the crowd of demons. “All we want is the sacrifice as was promised us.”

“Sorry mate, the sacrifice has been cancelled,” Spike said with a snarl, his golden eyes glowing with rage.

“Come now, I’m sure we can reach an equitable arrangement. After all, the girl is only human. My name is Hammond, and I work for…” Hammond said with some pomposity.

A low-pitched, rumbling growl issued from Buffy’s throat as she glared at Hammond. “I know who you work for, and I know exactly why you are here. As the vampire said, the sacrifice has been cancelled. The girl belongs to me.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Down in the basement, Giles, Willow, Tara and Anya worked feverishly to construct the concentric wards. They had managed to finish 3 of them, and were all trembling with exhaustion.

“I-I-I don’t think we can k-k-keep this up for m-m-much longer.” Tara stuttered.

“She’s right. I’m just about drained, and if they do manage to get through the wards, none of us will have anything left to fight with.” Willow said quietly.

Xander, having watched quietly thus far, asked, “Why don’t you use the electricity to power the remaining wards? After all, it IS just power you need. Right? I mean I’m no witch or whatever, but isn’t power… well… just power?”

Giles looked at Xander with something akin to shock in his eyes. “Bloody Hell. The boy is a genius.”

“Xander has good ideas Giles, just… not all the time… and not very often,” Willow said with a giggle.

Thus said, the 4 of them started to plug the wards into the electrical system of the house. As they did so, they noticed the ward at the top of the stairs take on an eerie blue sheen.

“You realize that this is going to send Mrs. Summers' electric bill through the roof,” Anya said to nobody in particular.

“Ahn, somehow I don’t think Mrs. Summers will mind, if it saves Dawn. And the rest of us,” Xander interjected.

“Quite right, now can we get back to the task at hand?” Giles asked with some frustration.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“She is MY daughter, and she is coming with me,” Hank Summers said as he pushed his way to the front. “And no two-bit whore is going to stop me.”

Losing his temper, Spike slammed his fist into Hank’s jaw, knocking him out. “NOBODY talks to her like that.”

Hammond glanced down at the sprawled form of Hank Summers. “He isn’t really needed for this part anyway.” Looking at Buffy, he made a gesture towards the demon horde. “I’m sure you are wondering why nobody has noticed my little entourage. Our mages have cast a cloaking spell, both visual and auditory. Soon they will have taken down that feeble ward around the house. I really do suggest just handing over the girl, before you get hurt."

Angel stepped forward, a gloating smirk on his face. “I told you Spike. Dawn will be mine.” He flourished a tightly rolled document. “In writing and everything. Seems dear old Hank signed over his daughter’s virginity to me.”

Hammond interrupted, “Yes, yes, let’s do get on with this. We don’t have all day, or night, as the case may be.”

Buffy looked at both Hammond and Angel, her eyes a brilliant silver, with an ebon flame burning in them. “You will only get Dawn over my cold corpse. And even then you wouldn’t stand a chance.” Silvery scales erupted across her cheekbones, and trailed down her neck. Soon her hands were covered in the same silver scales. “Know this, Hammond, Liaison for WolfRam and Hart. You will not pass. Neither you, nor your associates. None of those who stand with you shall pass.”

Spike smirked. “I stand by what she said. None of you are getting past me either.”

Hammond pulled Angel aside, and gave the order to attack. “Kill them both, and bring me the girl. And kill everyone with the girl.”

Buffy’s eyes narrowed at his words and she made herself a promise to kill Hammond herself… slowly.

Spike spun so that he was at Buffy’s back, guarding hers while she guarded his. As the demons rushed to attack, Spike’s eyes glowed with anticipation for the fight. Unbeknownst to Spike, but in full view of Hammond, Buffy’s eyes did the same, the flame burning higher.

Just as the foremost demons engaged the duo in combat, a clash of blades was heard from the rear of the horde. And an undulating battle cry that Buffy had not heard in millennia brought a wicked smile to her lips.

With a chilling smile, Buffy brought down the demon that had attacked her. Sparing Hammond an icy glance she uttered a baleful promise. “You will know the true meaning of pain, both of you.” That said, she struck off the head of the Polgara demon in front of her.

Spike was having the time of his unlife, whooping each time a demon fell dead at his feet. “Should we advance on these guys, Slayer?”

“Nope, my boys will push them towards us.” Buffy said with a gleeful laugh. “Didn’t you hear that cry earlier?”

“Yeah, but I figured it was the demons. So you are sayin we have help then?” Spike queried, while thrusting his sword into the stomach of the Fyarl in front of him.

“Yup, at least one of the boys, maybe more,” Buffy grunted as she removed the left antler from a Chaos Demon.

Hammond and Angel shared a glance. “Boys? Did you know she had outside help Angel?” Hammond inquired.

“All I know about the bitch is she stuck that fucking sword through my groin last night.” Angel growled in remembered pain.

Hammond looked over at Buffy as she spun and removed the head of the demon she had been fighting. “There is something familiar about her…” His voice trailed off as he glimpsed four white-clad figures towards the back of the mob of demons. “Oh shit…”

“What? Is something wrong?” Angel glanced around, and then looked quizzically at Hammond.

“Only if you consider an impending apocalypse to be something to worry about.” Hammond muttered, as he started wondering how he could get out of this with his head intact.

It had only been a few minutes, and the number of attacking demons had been slightly diminished. However, the mages had been attacking the wards on the house, and managed to break the first one. The violent reaction to this caused all the windows in the house to explode outward.



~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*


Willow’s head snapped up, a look of concern flashing through her eyes. “There goes the first ward.”

Xander flinched away from the window he had been standing at as the glass exploded outward. “And the windows. Man is Mrs. Summers gonna be pissed.”

The last of the wards snapped into place, lighting the dark basement with an eerie blue glow.

“Well, we’ve done all we can for now, lets try and recoup a little just in case.” Giles said as he slowly and stiffly rose to his feet. “I am too old to be sitting on hard concrete anymore…” he muttered quietly as he stretched his stiff muscles.

Tara and Willow shared a look and then giggled. “Giles, you aren’t old.”

Anya passed an appraising look over Giles and commented, “I’m sure you are not as old as you presently feel. However, I would suggest it to be in your best interest to become more limber, as I’m sure Mrs. Summers will be expecting major orgasms after all this trouble is over.”

While Tara and Willow fell over laughing, Giles whipped his glasses off his face and began stuttering incoherently.

“Gee Ahn; I think you broke the G-man.” Xander quipped before laughing as well.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Buffy’s eyes narrowed as she heard the shattering of glass. “Someone is so gonna pay for that!” she growled before raising her voice in a loud call. “Eximo damno veneficus vir primoris!”

Almost as if someone had been waiting for that command, one of the figures in white flung a dagger at one the mages. In the blink of an eye, the mage was down, the dagger protruding from his left eye socket. The other two fell in swift succession to the edge of a gleaming katana.

Spike started to laugh at the look of shock on Angel’s face. “Looks like you’ve got a trio of dead mages on your hands, Peaches.”

After that, it was a simple job of dispatching the remainder of the demons. Hammond quietly attempted to make good his escape, intending to leave both Angel and the now–conscious Hank to the dubious mercy of the figures in white.

“Operor non permoveo.” Although Hammond couldn’t understand what the white-clad person said, the sharp point of the sword at his back made the meaning clear. The figure forced Hammond to his knees, and then motioned for Angel and Hank to assume the same position. One look at the swiftly dying demons and they both fell to their knees.

As the last of the demons fell to the sharp edge of her deadly sword, Buffy breathed a sigh of relief. Turning to Spike, she flashed him a wicked grin, sheathed her sword across her back, and launched herself into his arms. “WE WON!” she cried as she wrapped her arms around his neck.

Spike dropped the katana he was holding and wrapped his arm around her waist, “That we did love, that we did.” Staring into her eyes, he leaned his head down and placed a delicate kiss on her lips, one that soon turned heated.

A quiet cough from behind them attempted, and failed, to get their attention. The cough turned into snickers, which caused Spike to raise his head and growl.

Buffy giggled and rested her head on Spike’s chest. “I think we're busted.” She stepped away from Spike and stood slightly in front of him, facing the four figures in white.

The tallest of the four stepped forward, sword raised in a challenging position. Then, to Spike’s surprise, sank to its knees, head bowed, sword lying across the upraised palms. In a firm voice, that held the barest trace of an accent, the figure spoke, “Meus mucro ego locus procul vestra imperium. Meus cruor vobis ego mos effundo. Meus vita prodigo pro vestra causa. Umquam obedienter ut vestra mos, Imperium mihi, quod ego pareo.”

With a tinkling laugh, Buffy reached out a hand and whapped the kneeling figure on the head. “Get off your knees Methos, you look like a moron.”




A/N: translations

Eximo damno veneficus vir primoris
(Take out the damned mages first)

Meus mucro ego locus procul vestra imperium.
Meus cruor vobis ego mos effundo.
Meus vita prodigo pro vestra causa.
Umquam obedienter ut vestra mos,
Imperium mihi , quod ego pareo.
(My sword I place at thy command.
My blood for thee I will shed.
My life expend for thy cause.
Ever obedient to thy will,
Command me, and I obey.)

Operor non permoveo
(Do not move)

Climbing to his feet, Methos sheathed his sword before flinging back the white hood that shaded his face. With a wicked chuckle he said, “Now is that any way to treat your favored son, Mother?”

Buffy snorted and rolled her eyes. “Yes. When that son is you.”

Placing his hand over his heart, Methos adopted a wounded expression. “Mother, you wound me. What have I done to merit such?”

A muffled laugh burst forth from the larger of the three remaining white-clad personages. “Looks like she’s got your number, old man.”

“I’ve had his number since the day I yanked his skinny ass out of that snow bank over 5000 years ago,” Buffy remarked.

Hank started to climb to his feet, sputtering, “Now see here you stupid bitch, I don’t care…” His blustering foolishness was abruptly stopped by the application of Spike’s fist to his face.

“Told you before, you bloody wanker, NOBODY talks to her like that!” Spike kicked Hank in the ribs for good measure.

“Oh, I think I like this one,” Methos exclaimed.

Angel lunged up from the ground, in a lame attempt to tackle Buffy. “You stupid cunt, you’ve ruined everything!” Before Buffy could react, the white-robed figure that had been standing behind Angel, knocked him over the head with the pommel of its sword, and he fell to the ground dazed.

Looking more than a little perturbed, Hammond quietly asked, “If I may inquire, what happens next? You have obviously won the right for the girl to be your sacrifice…” He trailed off as Buffy rounded on him, a look of utter fury on her face.

“Dawn is nobody’s damned sacrifice! Get that through your fucking thick skull right now,” Buffy growled, her eyes flashing angrily.

“But… the robes, and you calling them ‘your boys’ and…” Hammond trailed off totally confused.

The figure who had smacked Angel over the head laughed. “I’ve been called a lot of things in my lifetime, but never a boy.”

Buffy snickered at the look of confusion on Hammond’s face. “So, since I know for a fact that the other three are dead, permanently, wanna fill me in on who is wearing the robes?”

Methos laughed and bowed mockingly to Buffy. “As my lady wishes.”

“The rather large lump over there, portraying the image of war…” Methos laughed, “Would be one Duncan McLeod. Must say he just doesn’t have Kronos’ touch though.”

Duncan pulled off his hood and grinned. “Don’t know why I let you talk me into wearing this getup.”

“Cause you look sexy in that robe and you know it?” Methos grinned and blew Mac a kiss. “Moving along now, the one portraying the image of famine is the ever lovely Amanda.”

Amanda pulled her hood off, shook out her long black hair and snickered. “And from what I’ve heard, I’m the skinniest famine ever.”

“No kidding, Caspian ate more in one sitting than you do in a week.” Mac said with a grin.

“Oh bite me Mac.” Amanda said, sticking out her tongue.

“Enough you two, this is serious business.” Methos snickered softly. Turning to the last figure, the one who had smacked Angel over the head. “Last but not least, portraying the image of pestilence, the Lady Cassandra.”

Cassandra lowered her hood and smiled. “How are you Buffy? I see we got here in time.”

Buffy laughed, reached over and hugged a very confused Spike. “Hi Cassie. Yup, you guys got here in time.” Grinning at Mac she continued, “Never thought I’d be happy to see a morose Scotsman though."

Mac just laughed and finished removing the robe he was wearing. “How are Joyce and Dawn? These idiots didn’t get to them did they?”

Buffy turned towards the house. “Bring them, we don’t need the neighbors spying on us and gossiping.”

Methos clapped a hand to Spike’s shoulder and winked. “You and I need to have a drink and discuss just exactly why Mother was kissing you.”

Spike’s eyes widened and he just stared at Methos. “You do realize that I ain’t exactly human?”

“Oh he realizes, he is just tryna get under your skin. Either that or he just wants to see how drunk he can get you,” Buffy tossed over her shoulder as she reached for the door. And was promptly flung back as the 2nd stage ward activated.

Spike rushed over to her, cradling her against him while checking her over for any kind of damage the ward may have caused.

Angel started laughing. “You had the lesbian witch bitches lock US out, but forgot that any wards would lock you out as well. You really are a dumb cunt.”

Cassandra placed the tip of her sword at the base of Angel’s skull. “One more word from you, and I will remove your vocal cords from the back.”

Angel opened his mouth and Hammond gave a deep sigh. “Do be quiet Angel. You may be a client of the firm, but even the senior partners won’t go against the horsemen and their teacher.”

Methos stood there, staring at the door. “Any suggestions on how we are gonna get in?”

Spike thought for a moment and grinned as an idea formed. “Anyone got a cell phone? There has to be at least one in the house, if not more. And I know the watcher seldom lets his out of his sight.”

Amanda reached into her back pocket and produced her phone. “Here, it might be best if a voice he recognizes is on this end.” She tossed the phone to Spike.

“Ta pet. You’re right; he’d have an eppie if he didn’t recognize the voice. And we sure don’t need visit from Ripper to round out the evening.” Spike caught the phone as he and Buffy rose to their feet.

Spike flipped open the phone and dialed Giles’ number. When Giles answered Spike quipped, “Wanna open the front door Rupes? We got company and they really need to use the loo.”

“I take it then, that the situation has been resolved to our satisfaction?” Giles queried.

Spike laughed into the phone. “Yeah, the problem has been… taken care of… in an unexpected manner, resulting in us having guests. So be a good watcher and open the bloody door!”

“Guests? What kind of guests? Are you sure…” Giles started to ask, only to be interrupted by Spike.

“Listen Rupert. The sun is rising, and if you recall I have a rather large aversion to becoming dust. Open the fucking door!” Before Spike could say anything further, Buffy plucked the phone from his fingers.

“Giles open the door and drop the wards, please. Thank you.” Buffy spoke calmly yet firmly into the phone before pressing the end button, effectively cutting Giles off in mid rant.

Cassandra laughed softly. “I love how she does that.”

“From what I’ve heard, she could convince the pope that he’s really a porn star,” Mac said with a chuckle.

“Bring them,” Buffy said as the front door opened, revealing a nervous looking Giles. She swept into the house, snagging Spike’s hand and pulling him in after her.

Giles stared in open-mouthed shock as four armed strangers shoved three other people into the house. “What’s going on?” he started to inquire but was interrupted by Dawn as she ran past him.

“Uncle Methos!” Dawn squealed as she tackled him at the door. “Did you bring me anything?”

Methos chuckled and wrapped Dawn up in a hug. “Maybe. If you've been good.”

Angel laughed. “Send her my way. I’ll teach her how to be very good.” He leered at Dawn and ran his eyes suggestively up and down her twelve year old frame.

Before anyone else could react, Mac backhanded Angel, splitting his lip. “Shut your mouth and keep your eyes off of her.”

Xander laughed with glee. “Do it again, do it again!” Turning to Giles he loudly commented, “I like this guy.” He paused a beat then, a little quieter asked, “Who is he?”

“I have no idea,” Giles said looking bewildered. “But I am going to assume that Dawn knows at least one of them.”

As soon as Mac turned away, Angel started spewing more vulgar and obscene suggestions as to what Dawn could do to be considered ‘good’. This time it was Buffy who stopped him. “One more word from you and I will have your tongue removed.”

Everyone blinked in astonishment at the quiet menace in Buffy’s voice but it was Hammond who ventured a comment. “Do shut up Angelus. Even your association with Wolfram and Hart can't save you from her.”

Just then Joyce came in from the kitchen and saw Hank. “You bastard!” She stalked over to him and kicked him square in the balls. “Your own daughter! How could you! I hope Mother gives you exactly what you deserve.”

“‘Oh don’t worry Joyce. I will. And I guarantee he won’t like it,” Buffy said with a voice so cold, it made everyone in the room shiver.

“Yes, well…” Giles seemed almost at a loss for words. Almost. He cleared his throat and started again. “I am assuming that the… person… Joyce just…” Giles winced slightly, “kicked is Hank Summers. But if I may inquire, who are the others?” He turned to Buffy with one eyebrow raised.

“Sure Giles, I’ll make with the intros…” Buffy started, but was interrupted by Angel’s loudly obscene remarks. “Damnit, I did warn him.” Standing up, she stalked over to Angel, and held out her hand, palm up.

Knowing what Buffy was after; Cassandra placed a long, thin-bladed dagger into Buffy’s palm. “Would you like me to hold his head for you?”

“Its gonna take at least 2 of you… he’s pretty strong.” Buffy said dispassionately.

“Here, love. Let me help” Spike said with a grin.

“Thanks Spike.” Turning to the others in the room, Buffy said, “If you want to wait out in the kitchen, I won’t think any less of you. It won’t be a pleasant sight.” When nobody moved, or indicated they were going to move, Buffy turned back to Angel. “Hold his head still please and his mouth open.”

While Spike held Angel’s head still, Cassandra used her knowledge of pressure points to lock Angel’s jaw open wide.

“Thank you.” Buffy glanced at the two young witches. “Do either of you know a spell to heat metal? ‘Cause I so don’t want blood on Joyce’s rug.”

Willow nodded and stepped forward. “I think I can do it.” Placing one finger on the dagger Willow spoke, “Benim emrimle ateş bu bıçağa bağlansın.” As the words left her lips, the dagger blade began to glow red-hot.

“Sweet. Thanks Willow.” Turning away from Willow to face Angel again, Buffy allowed a cold smirk to grace her lips. “Brace yourself Angel; this is gonna hurt… a lot.”
Reaching past his bared teeth, Buffy grasped his tongue in her fingers, digging her long nails into it. “Hold him still.” With a yank on his tongue, and a swipe of the dagger, Angel was separated from the offending appendage with a scream of sheer agony. “There, that should keep him quiet for a while.” Nodding to Cassandra and Spike, indicating they could release him, Buffy stepped back from Angel and looked at the dagger. “Ya think you can… I dunno… cool it off?” Arching one eyebrow at Willow, she waited patiently.

Willow nodded and closed her eyes, uttering “Benim emrimle ateş bu bıçaktan ayrılsın,” And the blade returned to its normal state.

“Thanks babe.” Buffy returned the dagger to Cassandra and walked over to the chair, sitting down and smirking at the looks she was getting from the people in the room. “What? I did warn him. Not my fault he couldn’t keep a civil tongue in his head.”




A/N: translations

Benim emrimle ateş bu bıçağa bağlansın
(By my will, Fire bound to this blade)

Benim emrimle ateş bu bıçaktan ayrılsın
(By my will, Fire released from this blade)

Spike laughed so hard that tears were running down his cheeks. “Pet, if you knew how often I wanted to do that to that bloody bastard…” He couldn’t continue, he was laughing too hard.

“She… She… holy frijoles… she cut out his… tongue!” Xander sputtered, disgust and fear waging war in his face.

The others refrained from commenting, but you could see the horror in their faces, all except for Anya of course. “He should be glad that she didn’t remove his head. Then again, she may make him beg for death before she’s finished with him. She can be very inventive when it comes to vengeance, as I said before.”

Hank looked about ready to faint, his eyes huge as he looked first at Angel, then at Buffy. “How… why… you…” He couldn’t organize his thoughts into any semblance of coherency. Finally he seemed to gather his wits and turned a glare on Hammond. "I demand that you contact the senior partners and get me out of this mess, immediately.”

Hammond looked at Hank with disdain. “You have no right to demand anything of me or the senior partners. Besides which, even if you did have that right, they won’t take on HER for anyone.” Shaking his head at Hank’s foolishness, he turned to Buffy. “What would you have of me, Lady?”

Buffy smirked at the look of confusion and outrage on Hank’s face. “A few answers if you would be so kind.” Beckoning Spike over, she tugged him down so he was sitting on the arm of her chair. “What type of contract does Hank Summers have with the senior partners?”

“Basic employee contract, with a longevity clause.” Hammond replied.

“For those of us not up on lawyer-speak, could you put that into English?” Xander asked as he sat on the couch, pulling Anya with him.

Glancing at Buffy for permission, and receiving a nod for him to continue, Hammond explained, “The basic contract consists of 2 main elements, Money and Power. Since Mr. Summers is human, the power he would be granted would be of a human nature.”

Buffy interrupted, “And the price for the basic contract?”

Hammond answered succinctly, “His soul.”

“And the longevity clause?” Methos queried.

“He wanted to live forever. I believe it was so he could amass more power in the human world.” Hammond replied. “The price of this clause was the sacrifice of someone of direct descent from him. In this case, the girl Dawn Summers.”

Spike let out a growl at that thought, his demon pushing forth in immense anger to glare at Hank. “I should kill you for even thinking it.”

Buffy laid a hand on Spike’s arm. “Easy baby, he’ll get what’s coming to him, I promise.”

Cassandra, from her place behind Angel, inquired, “And just how were you going to conduct this sacrifice?”

Hammond closed his eyes for a moment, as he mentally asked his bosses what he should do. He opened his eyes with a start and looked fearful. “The senior partners have instructed me to tell you everything. The sacrifice was tied into Hank’s lifestyle and predilections. It did require a death, as it was meant to stand in place of his. It required blood, as all our contracts do, in this case the blood of an innocent. And due to his tastes, it required the sexual act.” Looking around, he asked, “You are aware of his predilection for sexual contact with young girls?”

Giles yanked his glasses off and started polishing them. “We were informed of his tastes before your party arrived.”

“I see, well in that case I believe we are finished here?” Hammond turned towards Buffy with an inquiring look.

“Not quite. What’s the penalty for defaulting on his contract?” Buffy asked with a wry grin.

Hammond blinked slowly and a wicked smile graced his face. “Defaulting on the standard contract would be the opposite of what he had contracted for. Instead of money, he would be destitute forever. Instead of power, he would never have any influence again.”

A look of understanding passed over Amanda’s face, and she grinned. “And the longevity clause? What’s the penalty for defaulting on it?”

“His immediate death.” Hammond replied.

Hank paled as he realized what he had signed up for. “NO! You can’t do this to me! JOYCE! Tell them, they can’t do this to me.”

Quick as a snake, Amanda’s right hand struck Hank across the face. “Silence. Or I’ll do to you what was done to that worthless vampire beside you.”

Buffy leaned forward, a smile on her lips. “Hammond, I know you can talk to the senior partners. Tell them I am willing to make a deal.”

Hammond’s eyes almost bugged out as the response from his bosses was immediate and almost desperate. “What did you have in mind?”

Leaning back, Buffy ran one finger about and down Spike’s thigh. “First, I don’t want Hank Summers to die…”

“WHAT? After what he did…” Willow started to yell but was silenced by a chilling glance from Methos.

“Patience my dear. She knows what she is doing,” he said, and then winked.

“As I was saying, I don’t want him to die… YET. Give him the long lifespan,” and here Buffy’s smile turned sinister. “And place within his mind all the pain, fear, humiliation and desperation every abused child has suffered or ever will suffer. For the next 100 years.”

Spike leaned down and whispered something to her which nobody could hear.

Buffy nodded in agreement. “My companion has reminded me of something. In addition to what I asked for, make it impossible for him to be driven insane by the torment he will suffer. Doesn’t do to punish someone, if you leave them an escape route into insanity.”

Hammond nodded as he passed on Buffy’s demands. After a moment he responded by adding a stipulation. “The senior partners are agreed, under one condition.”

It was Duncan who spoke. “And what would this condition be?”

“They want you to take Angelus off their hands,” Hammond replied.

Buffy smiled gently. “Of course I’ll take Angel off your hands.” She winked at Methos, who could barely keep from laughing out loud at the look on Hammond’s face. “It will be my pleasure,” she purred.

Angel’s eyes bugged out at the sensual note in Buffy’s voice, and then he smirked as an idea came to him. This might be fun after all.

Buffy’s voice hardened as she turned back to Hammond. “You and Hank may go now.” She turned to ask Xander to open the door, and then turned back with an almost feral look in her eyes. “One more thing. Aelaesia cal sesaer eindral o, sor Ai paeli. Os jhori sai shi aezaelaer ail shyr eil val. Ialor mes sosti eir os jhoraelaer tysi, shaerysi ti air jhar. Shydel Ai paelasi ol o.”

Hammond paled as a tingle raced through his frame and his bosses translated what Buffy had said. He nodded once, grabbed Hank by the arm, and in a rare display of power, transported them both out of the house.

Methos gave up the struggle not to laugh as he collapsed onto the couch, roaring with laughter. “Did you see the look on his face?” he gasped and shared a look with Cassandra. “I thought he was gonna make a mess on the floor.”

With curiosity brimming in his eyes, Giles asked, “What did she say to him that would cause such a reaction?”

As Methos was to busy laughing his head off, Cassandra answered. “She basically placed a curse on him and told him to run.”

“I see,” Giles pulled his glasses off and started cleaning them. “And she has no fear of this curse coming back on her?”

“It is not so much a curse, as it is a… decree,” Methos said as he got himself under control. “Or a judgment. Basically she has sentenced him to death.” He shrugged as he reached out and pulled Joyce into a hug. “Hello there. How’s my baby sister?”

Joyce giggled at Methos’ antics and snuggled into his embrace. “Better now that Dawn is safe. Thank you for coming.”

“How could we not?” Amanda asked with some heat. “It’s not like we could ignore the threat that bastard posed to Dawn.”

“Easy ‘Manda, she didn’t mean any insult.” Duncan said wrapping an arm around her waist.

Buffy looked up from where she had been staring off into space. “Indeed, she didn’t. I think we have all let the activities of this past night get to us. Perhaps it is time to relax, grab a hot shower, some food and then some sleep.”

“Oh dear, I completely forgot!” Giles turned to Anya with a sheepish expression. “I think it would be best if we forgo opening the shop today and caught up on sleep. Don’t you agree?”

“If I wasn’t so tired I’d argue with you, but…” Anya broke off with a yawn, “I think you are right. We need to sleep.” Anya turned to Xander and grabbed his hand. “Take me home Xander and hold me while I sleep, then you can give me orgasms later.”

Xander waved goodbye as Anya pulled him out the door, commenting, “Just let me call in sick first okay?”

Willow and Tara stood there, swaying on their feet, trying to stay awake. “We don’t have any classes today, so it’s no big if we sleep all day,” Willow said, yawning loudly.

Duncan looked at the two young Wiccans. “C’mon ladies, Amanda and I will drop you off on our way to the hotel.” He gathered the girls up and ushered them out the door.

Spike slipped down to the basement and brought up some heavy chains. “Joyce, do you think we could chain the wanker up in the bath?”

“Won’t he just break loose?” Joyce asked worriedly.

“I can put him to sleep for a while Joyce. He will be out for 12 hours,” Cassandra replied, looking at Buffy in inquiry.

“Sounds good to me people.” Buffy yawned and ran one slender hand across her face. “I need a shower; I have Polgara guts in my hair.”

Spike hollered from the downstairs bathroom, “Use the shower down in my room pet.” His eyes temporarily glazed with thoughts of naked, wet Buffy. Angel trying to escape the chains brought him back to his senses. “Hey, Cassie! Wanna knock Peaches out? Otherwise he’s gonna make a hell of a racket.”

Buffy waved goodnight as she made her way down the stairs for a much desired shower.

Cassandra snickered softly. “Coming Blondie.”

“OI!” Spike exclaimed, pretending to be offended, but then winking at Cassandra as she came into the bathroom. “Let’s put the poof to beddy-bye.”

Methos leaned against the wall, waiting for Cassandra to finish the sleep spell on Angel. He watched with a little smile on his face as Giles hugged Dawn and Joyce before saying goodnight. As Giles passed him on his way out the door, he wished him a pleasant sleep.

Giles nodded at Methos as he passed him on his way out the door. Blinking at the brightness of the rising sun he quickly made his way to his car.

“Goodnight Uncle Methos,” Dawn said as she made her way upstairs.

“Buona notte mia piccolo alba. Dormire bene.” Methos said, smiling gently. “Off to bed with you too Joyce. Cass and I will lock up as we leave.”

“Thanks Methos. We’ll see you later?” Joyce asked, her hand on the railing.

“Yup, we will be in town for a while, at least I will, can’t say for the others.” Methos answered.

“Of course, then I will say goodnight.” Joyce went up the stairs, and after checking on Dawn, she went to her own bed.

Cassandra and Spike came out the bathroom laughing. “Darlin’, you have a wicked sense of humor.”

“Thanks Spike. Sleep well.” Cassandra said as she joined Methos at the door.

“Don’t hurt her Spike, or you will be sorry.” Methos said as he escorted Cassandra out the door.

“Wouldn’t hurt her for the world mate.” Spike replied as he watched them walk down the stairs and out of sight. After they had left, he closed and locked the door. Listening for a moment, he picked up the soft sound of Dawn’s heartbeat as she drifted off to sleep. He heard Joyce as she settled down, preparing for sleep. Then his ears picked up the sound of running water, and he remembered that Buffy was heading for the shower. “Give me strength…” he muttered, but unerringly made his way to the basement, visions of a wet, naked Buffy dancing in his head.



A/N: translations

Aelaesia cal sesaer eindral o, sor Ai paeli.
Os jhori sai shi aezaelaer ail shyr eil val.
Ialor mes sosti eir os jhoraelaer tysi,
bhaerysi ti air jhar.
Shydel Ai paelasi ol o.
(Every hand turned against you, this I decree.
Your life to be expended in blood and pain.
Until such time as your lifeless corpse,
before me is laid.
Bloodhunt I declare on you.)

Buona notte mia piccolo alba. Dormire bene.
(Good night my little sunrise. Sleep well.)

Spike made his way down the stairs, taking great care to make some noise so as not to startle Buffy. He paused in the doorway of his room, taking note of the fact that Buffy’s clothes were scattered about, her sword was leaning against the wall by the bed, and the door to the bathroom was open with steam pouring forth.

Buffy giggled to herself as she felt the vampire’s approach. When he didn’t immediately enter the bath room, she frowned wondering if he decided against joining her. With a sly smile Buffy called out, “Spike, would you come wash my back please?”

Spike smirked to himself. ‘Felt my approach did she? Wonder if she expected me to chicken out? Or does she expect me to take advantage of the situation? Hell, maybe she wants me to take advantage of the situation…’ His thoughts trailed off as his body made the decision for him, closing the bedroom door and making its way to the steam-filled bathroom.

“Spike, did you hear me?” Buffy asked impatiently.

“Oh I heard you love,” Spike replied as he stopped outside the enclosure. “Question is, are you sure you want me in there with you? Don’t rightly know if I can keep my hands to myself.”

“I wouldn’t have asked if I didn’t want you in here. As for keeping your hands to yourself, kinda negates the washing of the back if you don’t touch me,” Buffy replied.

Smirking, he opened the opague glass door, fully prepared to say something, but stopped short at the sight of Buffy’s naked wet body. Causing all thought to fly from his brain. Her back was facing him as soapy water cascaded down it, then slipped sensuously between her taut ass cheeks.

A groan issued from Spike’s lips as his body hardened almost to the point of pain.

“Get your sexy self in here and close the door, you're letting out the heat!” Buffy exclaimed as cool air wafted across her back.

“As my lady wishes,” Spike muttered as he swiftly disrobed and joined Buffy in the small cubicle, closing the door and trapping the steam within the enclosure. His eyes traveled hungrily over her shapely form, as visions of what he wanted to do with her danced in his head.

Buffy glanced back over her shoulder, her eyes smiling as she ogled the vampire’s nude form. Her eyes widened in appreciation as she took in the size of his erection. Gasping, Buffy’s eyes flew to Spike’s and she blushed hotly at the heat she saw within. “Grab the soap and get with the washing.” Buffy ordered with a saucy grin.

Spike smirked as his sensitive nose picked up the scent of Buffy’s arousal. He quickly snatched up the bottle of vanilla body wash and poured a generous amount into his hand. He rubbed his hands together, creating a luxurious lather before running them across her shoulders and upper back.

“Like this pet?” He asked as he allowed his hands to slide down her back, rubbing gently.

Buffy moaned softly at the feel of Spike’s strong yet gentle fingers massaging her. She leaned forward, resting her elbows on the shower wall, letting her head hang forward. “Oh yessss… just like that,” Buffy murmured. Her soft moans turned to a loud groan as Spike’s hands cupped and gently squeezed her firm butt.

Spike leaned forward trailing his hands up Buffy’s sides and back down to her hips. Placing a gentle kiss on her shoulder he allowed his hands to travel to her abdomen, running them up and down, seductively brushing the sides of her breasts. The tiny mewl that slipped past the immortal slayer’s lips was the blond’s reward.

“You like my hands on you, Slayer?” Spike murmured in her ear.

“Oh god yes,” Buffy gasped softly. “Love your hands on me. Need more touching please,” she all but begged.

Spike pressed himself firmly against Buffy’s back, grinding engorged cock against her firm ass as he allowed his hands to cup and massage her pert breasts. He tweaked her nipples between his thumb and forefingers, teasing them into hardened points. “Like this pet? Want me to play with your luscious tits?” Spike growled sexily in her ear. “Or do you want more?”

“Oh,” Buffy gasped, pressing her lower body tight against Spike’s while arching her torso forward in order to press her bosom more fully into his talented hands. “Want more, more touching, more Spike.”

Lowering his head to her neck Spike ran his tongue up and down Buffy’s pulse point, before gently nipping at her soft skin. The fingers of his right hand gently squeezed and pulled on her right nipple, while his left slid down her body, pausing to gently tug on the bellybutton ring she wore.

“Want my fingers on your pussy baby? Want me to play with your hot little cunt?” Spike murmured between nips at her jugular.

All he received for an answer was a loud moan and Buffy’s ass grindingagainst his dick.

“Say it pet, tell me what you want,” he encouraged as his left forefinger traced over her slit.

“Spike, please…” Buffy gasped.

“Please what, Slayer?” Spike growled in her ear.

“Please touch my pussy. I want your fingers on me, in me. PLEASE!” Buffy begged.

“As milady wishes,” Spike murmured softly, as he slid his hand down to firmly cup her pussy in his hand.

“Spread your legs a little, love.”

Buffy parted her legs, allowing Spike full access to her sex.

“That’s it pet,” Spike whispered in her ear. “Fuck you are so wet for me, aren’t you baby? Your heat is burning me.”

He slipped his finger between the wet folds of her cunt and teasingly dipped it just inside the opening to her womb. “I’m gonna fingerfuck your little pussy; you want me to do that baby? Huh? You want Spike to fuck your tight cunny with his fingers?” Spike growled as he slid his finger in until he encountered her renewable virginity.

“Oh yes please Spike. Fuck me with your fingers. Please baby,” Buffy moaned as he began to fingerfuck her. “Oh god that feels so good.”

“Yeah Slayer, I’m gonna make you cum all over my fingers. Gonna fuck that little cunt of yours with my hand. Gonna make you scream.” Spike said as he pulled out the one finger and slid three fingers back inside her wet hole, stretching her even more than before.

Spike began to pump his fingers inside her as his thumb brushed over her clit.

Buffy hissed in pleasure as her hips started rocking mimicking the fingers inside her. She could feel the slow burn starting in the pit of her stomach as Spike continued to manipulate her clitoris and fuck her with his hand. Tossing her head back she screamed her release.

Slipping his fingers out Spike brought them to his mouth licking them clean. “Hope you’re not to tired, luv. That was just the appetizer,” the vampire smirked.

Buffy collapsed back against Spike, her legs trembling in the aftermath of the orgasm. Giggling softly she carefully turned around in his arms to place a gentle kiss on Spike’s lips. “You are quite amazing, you know that?” she said.

Chuckling softly, Spike reached past Buffy to turn off the water. “Oh you haven’t seen anything yet baby.” He wrapped his arms tightly around her and squeezed gently. “C’mon pet, lets get you dried off and into bed,” Spike murmured in her ear as he escorted Buffy out of the shower enclosure. With tender care, he dried the moisture from her skin, his fingers lingering in places meant to arouse.

Buffy shivered with pleasure as Spike patted her skin dry with tender touches. She moaned as his tongue darted out to play with her navel-ring. “Spike…” Buffy gasped as his hands trailed up the inside of her legs.

“Yes love?” Spike murmured as he slowly rose to his feet, his fingers lightly brushing over her skin. Once he had reached his full height, he dipped his head and ran his tongue across Buffy’s shoulder.

Buffy felt her legs give out and she clutched at Spike to keep from falling. “Oh God…” At that precise moment, Spike swept Buffy up into his arms and carried her through to the bedroom.

Spike paused beside the bed, and without letting go of Buffy, knelt on the silk sheets, gently placing her in the middle of the soft expanse. He let his hands slide across her skin, his smoldering blue gaze locked with the burning emerald of hers. “Let me love you pet.” Spike murmured as he lowered his head, his lips brushing hers.

Buffy ran her fingers lightly across Spike’s chest and around his back, tracing what seemed like random symbols on his pale flesh. “Yes, Spike. Love me.” Buffy whispered as she pressed her lips to his, nibbling softly.

Spike crushed his mouth to hers, his tongue forcing its way into her mouth as his fingers threaded themselves into her damp hair as he lost control at Buffy’s whispered words. He lowered himself onto her, holding her to the mattress with his lean frame, a soft rumbling issuing from deep in his chest.

Buffy tore her mouth from Spike’s, gasping for air. “Spike, please…” Buffy started to say, but the words were cut off as Spike captured her lips again, only gentler this time.

Placing gentle kisses on her soft lips, Spike murmured softly, “Sorry love kinda got carried away for a moment. We’ll go slow.” He pressed soft, open-mouthed kisses across her cheek, and down her neck, stopping to nibble gently on her pulse-point. His slender fingers traced a path down her chest and drew ever-shrinking circles on her breasts, just barely brushing the pebble-like nipples.

Buffy tilted her head to one side, baring more of her neck to Spike’s lips and blunt teeth. Gasping, she arched her back, trying to press her breasts harder against his circling fingers. “Please Spike… please”

“Never pegged ya for the begging kind, Slayer,” Spike said as he trailed his tongue down the valley between her pert tits. “Want me to suck on your titties baby? Hmmm?” Suiting actions to words he circled her left nipple with the point of his tongue, eyes gleaming as Buffy arched even more, pressing her succulent tit against his mouth.

Buffy laced her fingers thru the riotous curls on Spike’s head, holding him to her breast as she arched against him. “Yes Spike, suck my tits...Please suck on my nipples…” Her voice trailed off in a loud moan as Spike wrapped his lips around her left nipple and suckled like a baby.

As Spike sucked and licked her nipples, his fingers trailed down across her abdomen, and lightly brushed against her hairless slit. He ground his erection against the bed and tried to keep control of the urge to jump her. Lifting his head, he whispered just loud enough for her to hear, “Spread your legs baby. Let Spike at that pretty lil pussy of yours, yeah? You want me to play with your tight lil cunt baby?”

Buffy willingly spread her legs apart and gasped loudly as spike cupped her entire pussy with his hand, massaging it gently.

“Oh pet, your sweet cunnie is so wet for me, so hot…” Spike murmured as he teased her by running one finger lightly around her opening. Taking a deep, un-needed breath, Spike gave a wicked smirk and said, “Gonna taste you Slayer. Gonna see if that hot lil cunt of yours tastes as good as it smells.” With that said, Spike slid down Buffy’s body, between her legs, until he was staring at her exposed quim. “So pretty, it is, all pink and glistening.” Without taking his eyes off Buffy’s face, Spike spread her pussy lips apart to expose her wet opening. He ran his tongue along the entire length of her slit, from top to bottom, and moaned at the heady taste. “Fuck pet, you taste divine…” That said he thrust his tongue into her, lapping at the juices pooled inside, while his fingers massaged and tugged on the hard nub of her clit.

Latching her fingers into Spike’s hair, Buffy thrust up against his face, gasping loudly as he fucked her with his tongue. “Oh GOD! Yes….” Buffy ground herself against Spike’s face, eyes wide and lips parted in a harsh pant, tensing at her rapidly approaching orgasm.

Sensing her approaching orgasm, Spike lifted his head, and removed his fingers from her clit. “Does my baby girl want to cum?” Spike asked with a wicked smirk. “Does my sexy little Slayer want the big bad vampire to make her cum?”

“Yes, please Spike, make me cum,” Buffy begged her eyes closed tight as her body writhed underneath Spike.

Spike prowled up Buffy’s body on his hands and knees, looking for all the world like a sleek jungle cat. Poised over her, his rock-hard erection grazing against her sopping wet quim, he looked down at her and shifted into game-face. “Open your eyes Slayer, and invite me in. Invite my hard vampire cock into your tight virgin Slayer pussy.”

Buffy opened her eyes, and stared up at Spike with eyes burning from desire. Lifting one hand, she slid her fingers across his ridged brow and whispered, “Come in Spike.”

Spike kept his golden eyes locked with Buffy’s emerald ones as he slowly nudged his thick cock inside her tight, wet hole and withdrew just as slowly. He repeated this action several times, going slightly deeper with each thrust.

Buffy gasped with each shallow thrust, the fire in Spike’s eyes sending her desire spiraling even higher. “Oh God Spike, please…” Buffy moaned, “More…”

Spike thrust once more into Buffy, and paused when he encountered her virgin barrier. Growling deep in his chest, he withdrew until he was poised at her opening. Lowering his head, he captured Buffy’s lips in a penetrating kiss, and slammed his cock deep into her channel, until he was buried balls deep.

Buffy screamed briefly as her virginity was violently penetrated, her cries muffled by Spike’s lips.

Breaking the kiss, Spike murmured against her skin, “sorry, so sorry…” He remained buried inside her, unmoving as he whispered apologies against her neck. “The fight, all that violence…”

Buffy stroked her fingers up and down Spike’s spine, tracing the lines of his back muscles with the tips of her fingernails. “It’s okay Spike, its okay. I understand,” she whispered. “Just do me a favor?”

Spike tensed, certain that she was about to demand he leave, “Anything love, anything at all. Just name it.”

“Don’t stop! You think you are the only one aroused by the fight?” Buffy demanded, digging her nails into the skin of his back and arching against him.

Lifting his head, Spike looked at her and saw that she was serious. “Whatever you say Slayer.” He pulled partway out, and thrust back inside, hard and deep. “Fuck pet, so tight… so hot…” He buried his head against her neck, licking and nibbling with his razor sharp teeth on her pulse point. “Oh god, you feel so damned good… so tight around my cock…”

Buffy wrapped her legs around Spike’s waist, pulling him deeper into her, clenching around his driving cock as she spiraled towards a powerful orgasm. “Yes spike... oh yes…”

Bringing his head up, and bracing himself on his hands, Spike picked up the speed and vigor of his penetrating thrusts. “Like that don’t you Slayer? You just love being fucked by the big bads hard cock, don’t you.” His eyes almost crossed as Buffy clenched her pussy tight around his cock. “Fuck, like that pet, just like that.” Lowering his head he whispered in her ear, “How’s it feel Slayer, my cock so deep inside you,” and he thrust hard, his balls slapping against her ass.

All Buffy could do was moan and thrash under him, driven beyond words into a world of sensation and blinding pleasure.

“Feels damned good to me baby girl. Knowing your virgin blood is coating my cock, feeling you writhe under me, as I fuck your hot little cunt.” Spike slammed harder and deeper into Buffy’s willing body, growling in his chest as he fought against all instinct not to bite her.

“Gods Spike, I’m gonna…” Buffy gasped as lights exploded behind her eyes, her body clenching tight as a powerful orgasm rippled through her.

“That’s it pet, cum for Spike… cum all over my cock,” Spike panted in her ear. “I’m gonna fuck you all night long baby. Gonna fuck your tight cunt with my hard cock…” Spike lifted his head and looked at Buffy, noticing her eyes were tightly closed. He fisted one hand in her hair, pulling her head back, exposing more of her slender neck. “Open your eyes little slayer, look at the vampire whose fucking you,” he growled.

Buffy opened her passion-glazed eyes and looked up at Spike’s vampiric visage. A shudder ran through her frame at the fire and desire she saw burning in his golden eyes. Licking her lips, Buffy winked up at Spike, said, “Oh I see you Spike,” and tightening her vaginal muscles around his cock declared, “and I feel you too.”

Spike felt himself loosing control over his demonic nature as he began to pound harder and harder into Buffy. “God pet, I’m gonna…”

“Yes Spike… oh GOD!” Buffy screamed as another orgasm washed over her, drowning her in pleasurable sensations until she passed out from overload.

Spike lifted his head and roared loudly as he thrust once more, hard and deep, into Buffy’s tight passage, and filled her spasming womb with his cold cum. “BUFFY!” Panting heavily for air he didn’t need, Spike collapsed on top of Buffy, his brain shutting down as he too passed out.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Methos let his senses take in the quiet ambiance that seemed to permeate the quaint little town Joyce had chose to live in. ‘Quiet on the surface maybe,’ he thought to himself as he turned the corner onto Revello. ‘But I can feel the darkness under the surface, just waiting to get out.’ He paused in front of the small, craftsman-style bungalow that belonged to his baby sister and laughed softly as Dawn came flying out the door.

“Uncle Methos! Uncle Methos! You came back!” Dawn screamed as she launched herself into his arms.

“I said I would, now didn’t I?” Methos said as he caught the young girl up and gave her a gentle hug. “How did you sleep little one?”

“Okay I guess…” Dawn murmured. “Kept hearing these weird noised, but I couldn’t figure out what they were.” Her eyes twinkled with mirth. “I do know they were coming from the basement though.”

“Oh really?” Methos queried with a sly grin. “Maybe Buffy was beating on…” Methos paused; searching for the name of the blonde-haired person, he had seen kissing Buffy last night.

“Why would she beat up on Spike? I think she likes him.” Dawn stated in that high-handed teenage tone that indicated she thought you were stupid or something. “It’s obvious.”

“Obvious huh.” Methos remarked as he led Dawn inside the house. “Why don’t I make you some…” he paused glanced at his watch, “lunch, and you can tell me all about this ‘Spike’ person that Buffy seems to like. Okay munchkin?”

“Sure, I want pancakes though.” Dawn stated emphatically as she plopped down on a stool at the kitchen island.

“Pancakes…” Methos slipped his trench coat off and hung it on a hook beside the back door, revealing a cream-colored sweater and black dress-slacks. “How about I make crepes instead?”

“What are crepes?” Dawn asked.

“Kind of like thin pancakes, with powdered sugar and fruit,” Methos replied distractedly as he dug through the cupboards and fridge gathering his ingredients and utensils.

“Cool, sugar and fruit. I can handle that.” Dawn practically bounced in her seat.

“So, tell me about this Spike person,” Methos requested as he started mixing up the batter for the crepes.

“Well, he’s cool and treats me like I’m his baby sister. Watches over me and stuff. Makes sure nobody hurts me, or mom.” Dawn thought for a minute. “Pretty much the entire town really. If he can I mean.”

“Protects you from what?” Methos inquired as he spread the batter into a nicely heated pan.

“Demons, other vampires…” Dawn trailed off with a giggle, “Teenage boys.”

“Other vampires?” Methos raised one eyebrow at Dawn, “What do you mean, ‘other vampires’?”

“Oops,” Dawn muttered. “I don’t think I was supposed to tell you that.”

“Why not? Would he get angry? Maybe hurt you?” Methos inquired as he rolled the thin crepe into a tube and dusted it with powdered sugar.

“NO! Spike would never hurt me. It’s just…” Dawn trailed off, obviously searching for a way to explain to Methos about Spike. With a sigh, Dawn decided to tell everything she knew. “I know he explained to Buffy, so maybe its okay. Spike is a vampire, over 100 years old. He’s also related to Giles, I think he’s his uncle or something.” Her eyebrows scrunched in thought. “Oh and he hasn’t killed an innocent human in decades.” Dawn finished her rambling explanation and smiled brightly at her uncle.

Methos chuckled as he placed a plate of crispy crepes and sliced peaches in front of Dawn. “Thanks kiddo. Now eat up.” He leaned back against the counter and watched Dawn dig into the crepes. Hearing sounds from upstairs; he turned back to the stove and began preparing another plate for Joyce.

“Uncle Methos? How come all the questions about Spike?” Dawn asked around a mouthful of fruit.

“I’m just worried about Mother; she’s been hurt really bad in the past. I don’t want her getting hurt again.” Methos replied distractedly.

“I’m sure Spike wouldn’t hurt her for the world, Methos.” Joyce interjected as she entered the kitchen. “Mmmm, something smells good.”

“Have a seat sister-mine and I’ll have this ready for you in a second.” Methos said as he deftly flipped the crepe. “How do you know he won’t hurt her?”

“For one, Spike doesn’t hurt those he cares about. In addition, he appears to care about mother a great deal, even though they only met a short time ago.” Joyce replied as she slipped onto the stool next to Dawn, ruffling her daughter’s hair as she did so. “If you want to know more about him, I suggest you talk to Spike.”

“I was planning on talking to him, maybe over a pint or two,” Methos said as he slid a plate of crepes in front of Joyce.

Dawn giggled, “If you are planning on getting him drunk, good luck!” She stood up and darted out of the room, her laughter following her.

“What does she mean, ‘good luck’?” Methos asked of Joyce.

“Just that it takes a lot to get Spike drunk.” Joyce replied as she savored the crepes.

“Oh I’m sure I can handle it.” Methos replied distractedly as his ears picked up muffled sounds coming from the basement. “Heh seems Dawn was right, they DO make weird noises.”

Joyce giggled, “Yeah, might have something to do with the sound-deadening insulation we put up. Spike has extremely sharp hearing, and it makes it easier on him with it in place, otherwise there is no way he’d be able to sleep.”

Methos nodded and grinned, “Well, from the sounds of it they are awake and should be up soon…” he trailed off as the sounds changed in intensity, “Maybe.”

Joyce reached for the phone as it started ringing almost demandingly. “Hello? Yes dear, we are awake. You will? Okay, see you soon. Bye.” She sighed as she hung up the phone. “I think we better clear this up, or Rupert will have you feeding him too.” She said with a chuckle.

With a look of horror on his face, Methos collected the dishes and began washing them, along with the pan and other utensils he had used. “Despite Mac’s insistence, I am NOT a cook.”

Joyce left the room, laughing softly as she went upstairs to get dressed, the sounds of her brother swearing up a storm making her feel more at home than she had in years.

Spike woke from a deep sleep and smiled lazily. After regaining consciousness, they had curled up in each other’s arms and drifted off to sleep, the nights activities having drained their energy to the point of exhaustion. He gently squeezed the petite girl he was cradling in his arms and couldn’t help but chuckle to himself as he took in the position they were in. ‘Pretty much the same as the last time I woke up with her in my arms,’ Spike thought to himself. ‘Let’s see if I can wake her up the same way.’ A decidedly evil smirk danced across his lips as he let his hands begin to wander across Buffy’s silken skin. Cupping her firm breasts in his hands, he gently massaged them as he ran his thumbs across the nipples, his eyes twinkling as he felt them harden.

Buffy squirmed slightly in her sleep as her body began to react to Spike’s gentle touch.

Spike rolled the nipple of Buffy’s right breast between the thumb and forefinger of his right hand, his left hand trailing down her torso to insert itself between her legs and cup her moist pussy. Placing open-mouthed kisses across her shoulders, Spike slid one of his legs between hers, opening her up to his explorations.

Buffy arched into Spike’s touch, her breath starting to come in little gasps.

Spike pressed his engorged cock against the silken skin of Buffy’s firm ass as he gently explored her damp slit with his fingers. ‘Mmmmm, so soft, so warm,’ Spike blinked suddenly. ‘I’ll be damned; she doesn’t have any hair on her pussy at all. Not even a hint of stubble either. Guess that rules out her having shaved it off before I joined her last night.’ Spike’s demon surged to the surface at the thought of what he perceived to be untouched territory, eager to claim it as his own. With a rumbling growl, he pulled Buffy firmly back against him, and plunged one finger into the molten heat of her wet cunt.

The sudden invasion of her body woke Buffy from what she had assumed to be a pleasant dream, to find the dream to be reality. A strangled moan issued from her throat as Spike plunged first one, then two and suddenly three fingers into her. “Spike!”

Spike growled in her ear, “Nice way to wake up huh pet? My fingers in your pussy like this?” He drove his fingers hard and deep inside her. “Or maybe you want something more? Lord knows I want to drive my hard cock into your tight, wet, hairless hole.”

“Gods Spike…” Buffy moaned, arching against the driving force of his fingers. “Do it already…” Buffy reached behind her to grasp at Spike’s naked ass. “Please, don’t tease me…”

“Not teasing Slayer.” Spike growled as he fought for control. “Want to take this slow and easy, not like last time.” He moved back a little and slid his cock between her legs, rubbing his entire length along her wet slit as he pressed back against her. “But my demon is all excited. Seems the idea of you not havin' any hair on your delicious cunny is drivin' him out of his ever-lovin' mind.” He withdrew his fingers and placed the thick head of his cock against her tight opening. “But we gonna take this slow.” Suiting actions to words, he slowly nudged himself inside her. “Gods pet, so tight, so bleeding hot. Never get enough of this, ever.”

Buffy pressed back against Spike, sliding herself further down his hard length. “Oh god, that feels so good.”

“Damn straight it does Slayer.” Spike slid in until he felt that thin little barrier. “This is gonna hurt a little pet.” He pressed harder, and with a little effort, ruptured her virginity for a second time.

Buffy winced at the slight pinch of pain and then moaned as Spike buried his entire length inside her. “Oh fuck…” She gasped loudly as Spike withdrew and plunged back inside.

Spike started a slow and gentle thrusting rhythm, sliding his full length deep into Buffy’s tight pussy. Placing his mouth alongside her ear, he whispered, “I wanted to do this that first morning you woke in my arms. Almost drove me crazy, wanting to bury my cock inside you instead of my fingers.” He nuzzled the curve of her neck as he slowly fucked her with his cock. “You like this pet? Hmmm? You like me fucking you?” he softly inquired.

Buffy thrust back against him, gasping and moaning. “Yes Spike. Oh, yes… I like it… Love your cock fucking me… so hard… so deep…” she tapered off with a moan as he thrust a little harder and deeper.

“Yeah, gonna fuck you hard alright. Gonna fuck you so hard you’ll be screamin' my name.” Spike pulled out and sat up.

“What...?” Buffy started asking but was silenced when Spike pulled her to her knees, facing away from him.

Spike tenderly stroked Buffy’s stomach as he pressed himself against her back. “Bend over Slayer, gonna make you feel so good.”

Buffy wiggled her bottom slightly, rubbing it against Spike’s hard cock as she bent at the waist. “Like this?”

Spike growled loudly at the sight of her lusciously firm ass presented before him. “Oh yeah pet, just like that.” Then with those words, he thrust his throbbing cock all the way into her dripping channel with one hard stroke. “Gonna make you scream Slayer.” Spike snarled as he began thrusting hard, fast and deep into Buffy.

Buffy moaned and thrust herself back against Spike. “Oh gods yes… feels so damned good.”

Clutching her hips firmly in his hands, Spike assisted her backwards thrust, pulling her hard onto his cock each time he thrust forward. “Yeah pet, like that… take my cock all the way up that sweet little cunt of yours. Fuck…” Spike’s eyes started to cross as Buffy’s inner muscles clenched around his cock. “So fucking tight, so wet… so bloody hot…” With an almost evil smirk, he leaned over her back, to whisper in her ear. “You love this dontcha Slayer, getting fucked from behind by a vampire. Mmmhmmm you sure do, each clench of your sweet little pussy tells me that. Gonna make you cum all over my cock, make you scream as I fill your cunt with my cum.” Spike began thrusting as hard and fast as he could, grunting with each slap of his pelvis against Buffy’s upturned ass. “That’s it Slayer,” Spike growled in her ear, “Scream for me… let the entire town know just how much you love me fucking you.”

Buffy was moaning loudly, her breath coming in harsh pants as Spike hammered her from behind. She felt her body start to tighten as she approached orgasm and was unable to prevent the harsh scream that ripped from her throat as her body convulsed in a massive wave of orgasmic bliss.

Spike felt her pussy clamp down on his cock as her orgasm slammed into her, and with one last hard thrust, he buried himself in the slayer’s spasming channel, the head of his cock pressed against her cervix, and flooded her womb with his cum, loudly roaring out his release.

As they both collapsed, boneless, on the bed, Buffy started to giggle. “I hope this room is sound-proof. ‘Cause if it isn’t, we sure have some explaining to do.

Spike chuckled softly to himself as he slipped out of bed. “Gonna be explaining to everyone why you were screaming?” He slowly started getting dressed, never taking his eyes off the naked form of the nubile beauty in his bed. “Cor love, you look fantastic. All spread out on my bed, looking freshly shagged…” Spike’s voice trailed off as Buffy began to writhe slowly on the bed, stretching like a cat. “Oh fuck, keep that up and we won’t be leaving the room.”

Buffy giggled mischievously. “I believe you promised me something Spike.” She slowly sat up and squirmed her way to the edge of the bed. “And I intend to collect on that yummy looking promise.”

“What promise is that, Slayer?” Spike asked leaving off fastening his jeans as his cock began to harden once more.

“You promised me I could play with this…” Buffy traced one slender finger down the length of Spike’s rapidly stiffening rod, “as much as I wanted.” She wrapped her hand around the base and gently squeezed. “And I want… to make YOU scream my name.”

Spike closed his eyes and groaned. “Pet you don’t play fair…” he trailed off with a loud moan as Buffy gently licked the tip of his cock. “Nope, you don’t play fair at all.”

“C’mon Spike, you know you want it. You want to see my lips wrapped around your cock.” Buffy placed butterfly kisses on the head of Spike’s cock, using her tongue to probe the tiny slit. “You want to fuck my mouth with your big, hard cock, dontcha?” Buffy batted her eyes at him and gave him a look that combined child-like innocence with heated sensuality.

Spike tangled his fingers in Buffy’s long hair and gave a gentle thrust against her hand and lips. “Damned straight. Now open those pouty lips of yours pet, Spike’s got something special for you.”

Buffy parted her lips and slid the over the head of Spike’s cock, tasting both the pre-cum leaking from the slit, and her own juices.

“MMMmmm, nice wet mouth. Hot too. Almost as hot as that sweet pussy of yours. Just relax love and let me do the driving.” Spike slid his cock halfway into her mouth and pulled back.

Buffy pulled back and grinned. “Nope. My turn to do the driving!” Thus said she pulled Spike down onto the bed, holding him there with one hand. “I get to play. You just lie there.” With those words, Buffy proceeded to run her tongue over his entire length, licking and nipping as she went.

“Buffy… pet…” Spike was at a loss for words, as the Slayer licked and sucked on his cock like it was an ice cream cone.

Buffy lifted her head, and ran an appraising over the length of Spike’s massive tool. “Wonder how much of this…” she gave it a squeeze, “will fit in my mouth.” Buffy mused and glanced at Spike. “Wanna find out?”

“Hell yes Slayer. Slide your mouth over my cock and suck me off.” Spike growled out, his eyes flashing amber.

Buffy gave Spike a cheeky grin and bent to the task of sliding him into her mouth. When the head of his cock brushed the back of her throat, she laughed to herself, thinking that Spike was in for a hell of shock.

When he felt the head of his prick touch the back of her throat, Spike expected her to pull back, but his eyes rolled back in his head as he felt her take him down her throat. “Oh fuck pet, yes…” He vamped out as Buffy began to slide her mouth and throat up and down his hard length.

Buffy moaned around his cock as she deep-throated him, sending pleasant vibrations down his shaft.

Spike lifted his head, and with burning amber eyes, watched the petite slayer fuck his cock with her mouth. “Buffy… love… I’m gonna cum…”

Buffy lifted her head and asked, almost shyly, “Want to cum in my mouth, on my face or would you rather cum in my pussy?”

Faced with three very appealing options, Spike slammed his head back on the bed and groaned. “However, wherever, whenever you want it baby. Just let me cum… please.”

Buffy giggled at the look of desperate lust on Spike’s face. “Well, since sucking you off got me all wet… again… I think I’ll let you cum… here.” And with that, Buffy rapidly straddled Spike, and plunged herself down onto his raging erection.

Spike half-sat up as he felt the tight silken heat of Buffy’s pussy slide down over his cock and could not suppress the loud growl that issued from his throat. “God pet, you are so fucking tight.”

Buffy braced her hands on Spike’s shoulders, effectively pinning him to the bed as she began to ride him. “You like this Spike? Hmmm? You like being at the mercy of the Slayer as she fucks her tight cunt on your cock?” Buffy whispered in his ear. “Does it drive you insane, feeling your big dick breach the slayers virginity?”

Spike began thrusting upwards, hard, spearing her with his prick. He grabbed her hips with both hands and slammed her down onto him, burying himself to the balls inside her grasping, quivering cunt. “You like this dontcha Buffy. All hot and wet for the big bad. Cum for me slayer. Cum all over my cock.”

Buffy leaned forward as she felt the beginnings of her orgasm take her. “Cum for ME Spike. Fill me up with your cold, creamy cum. Scream for me.” And with that, Buffy sank her teeth into Spike’s neck, not quite hard enough to draw blood.

At the feel of her tight pussy rippling around him with her orgasm, Spike prepared to flip her over and fuck her senseless. Then he felt her teeth in his throat and all reason left him. He slammed her down on his cock, so hard the head pierced her cervix, and came with an earth-shattering roar, flooding her womb with his spendings.


Methos shook his head with a slight grin as the sounds from the basement reached his ears. “How long can they keep this up?” He muttered to himself as he finished cleaning up the mess he had made making Dawn and Joyce their breakfast. He was just putting the last of the dishes away when a knock on the kitchen door announced the arrival of a visitor.

Giles smiled politely at Methos as he was ushered into the kitchen, and then blanched as he heard an ungodly roar coming from behind the basement door. “Oh my…”

Methos chuckled at the expression on Giles’ face. “They’ve been at it for the last hour or so. I expect they’ll be up soon.” He offered Giles a cup of freshly brewed tea.

“Yes, thank you ever so much.” Giles said as he accepted the warm cup of tea. “Do you know if Joyce and Dawn slept okay?”

“As far as I know, they both slept fine. Leastwise they both seemed cheerful enough a little while ago when they were eating.” Methos replied as he sipped his tea.

“Good, good. No obvious repercussions then?” Giles inquired.

“None that I could detect.” Methos politely responded. He wondered to himself when Giles would stop beating around the bush and ask the questions that were obviously burning a hole in his brain.

Giles sat, sipping his tea, wondering how he could broach the questions he was dying to ask.

“Listen, I can practically see the smoke coming from your ears. Ask your questions and I’ll try to answer them as best I can, okay?” Methos said, not up to a game of will-he/wont-he this morning.

“Very well. Dawn called you ‘Uncle Methos’ last night. Why?” Giles queried as he dropped into full watcher mode.

“Because her mother, Joyce, is my sister.” Methos replied in an off-handed manner.

Giles looked at Methos over the top of his glasses. “Please enlighten me further.”

Just as Methos was about to start up the tale of his young life, the basement door opened and Buffy emerged from the basement, once again wearing Spike’s t-shirt. “Don’t get him started, we’ll be here all day and we don’t have time for lollygagging.”

“Well its about time you two climbed out of bed, instead of all over each other,” Methos snarked.

Buffy just cocked one eyebrow at Methos and grinned. “Jealous?”

Methos grinned salaciously and ran his eyes across Spike’s naked chest. “Oh definitely. That is one fine specimen you have snagged.”

Spike’s eyes about bugged out of his head as he realized they were discussing him. “Hey! Eyes to yourself mate. I belong to the lovely lady here.”

Buffy just giggled and poured herself a cup of coffee.

“I’m gonna go check on Peaches, make sure that spell is still holding him under.” Spike said as he left the kitchen, shaking his head as he wondered what he had gotten himself into.

Giles just sat there, teacup halfway to his mouth, a stunned expression on his face.

“C’mon Giles, blink already. Your eyeballs are gonna dry out.” Buffy muttered as she took a sip of her coffee.

“Hmmmm? Oh yes, quite.” Giles muttered.

“So, what’s up? You guys getting all with the sharing?” Buffy asked.

“Yup, the English statue there had asked me why Dawn called me Uncle” Methos offhandedly remarked.

“Did you tell him?” Buffy queried.

“You walked in just as I was going to illuminate the situation.” Methos grinned.

“Oh brother, you mean you were going to bore him with 5000 years worth of your dry sarcastic wit.” Buffy rolled her eyes.

“Damned straight. Wanted to see if he had any other expressions besides stunned and shocked.” Methos pointed out the stunned expression on Giles face.

“I beg your pardon.” Giles snapped, coming out of his daze. “Just because I don’t flaunt my emotions across my face like some addle-patted twit...”

“Chill, Giles. He’s just yanking your chain.” Buffy calmly informed him.

Giles turned to Buffy, “Then why don’t you tell me why Dawn was calling him ‘Uncle’.”

“Okay, okay. Sheesh… watchers… no sense of ha-ha.” Buffy settled herself onto a stool and leaned both elbows on the counter. “I dug his arse out of a snow bank when he was… 9 I think…” Buffy appeared deep in thought. “Round about that age, anyway. It had been a long, hard winter, and the elders of his village, like most people back then, decided that children were not worth keeping. So they cast out anyone under the age of 14, as being too young to work.” She continued.

Methos interrupted, “They also tossed a few of the elderly out as well. Why feed them when they can’t work?”

Giles looked stunned, then his expression transformed to a mixture of sadness and outrage. “That’s barbaric!”

“Different times Giles.” Buffy said. She shook her head and sighed. “When I came across him, he was huddled under a fallen tree with the corpses of about three or four other children, the youngest of which was only a few days old.” She turned to Methos, “Didn’t you tell me that the baby was your sister?”

“Yeah, she was.” Methos replied quietly.

“He begged me to kill him, Giles. He was so cold, alone, and terrified. I swear my heart almost broke. I wrapped him in my cloak, and gave him some bread…” Buffy started to say but was interrupted.

“She sat me up on this big black horse and told me to stay put. I was so scared I was going to fall off, I almost wet myself.” Methos interjected.

Tossing Methos an irritated glance, Buffy continued the tale. “I cremated the bodies of the children, and took him with me. Was almost 2 weeks before he would say more than ‘Yes’ or ‘No’ to me. Moreover, even when he said no… he ducked as if I was going to hit him.”

“You didn’t…” Giles queried.

“She never did, but you have to remember, things were very different. The only women I knew were the ones in my village, and they didn’t carry a honking big sword.” Methos snorted. “I think that’s what scared me more than anything, the sword.”

“I kept him with me, taught him stuff, he asked if he could call me Mother.” Buffy’s eyes softened at the memory. “All in all I think it turned out rather well.”

“Even with the whole ‘Horsemen’ thing?” Giles asked.

“Might not have been my most brilliant idea, but it worked at the time… sort of.” Buffy replied.

Just then, Spike came tearing into the kitchen, “He’s gone!”

Buffy whirled around, “What do you mean, ‘Gone’”, she demanded. “I thought you and Cassandra had him all tied up and sleepy-spelled.” She stormed out of the kitchen, a hard look on her face.

Methos grabbed Spike by the shoulder, preventing him from following Buffy. “I think you need to explain what you meant by ‘gone’.”

Spike tried to pull away from Methos and follow Buffy, but found himself sitting on a stool, staring into the cold eyes of the man who referred to Buffy as ‘Mother’.

“Do you mean he dusted?” Giles softly inquired.

“No, I don’t mean he dusted. I mean he just up and vanished!” Spike snarled, frustrated.

Buffy stormed back into the kitchen, her eyes flashing in anger. “Goddamned stupid fucking piece of shit… when I get my hands on him…,” she muttered angrily as she stomped her way to the basement door. Pausing, she whirled around and pinned Methos with a glance. “My bike is stashed over by the cemetery…”

“Restfield Cemetery” Spike interjected.

“What he said. Go fetch my stuff. Now.” Buffy all but snapped as she wrenched the door open and stomped down the stairs.

Methos sighed heavily. “She’s in a right snit. I’ll be back. DO NOT antagonize her. For your own safety, just leave her be…” His words trailed off as he watched Spike follow Buffy. “When Joyce comes down, tell her I’ll be back in a few minutes.” he directed at Giles as he made his way out the door.

Giles simply remained on his stool, a stunned look of utter shock on his face. He blinked a few times and muttered, “My word…”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Upstairs, Joyce laughed to herself as she hung up the phone. “What an idiot…” she muttered. “Maybe I can get Spike to bite him.”

“Bite who Mom?” Dawn asked as she entered her mom’s bedroom.

“Oh, just that idiot principal of yours.” Joyce answered.

“Toldja he’s an idiot.” Dawn cheekily giggled as she darted out the door again and downstairs.

“Come back here missy.” Joyce laughed as she followed her daughter.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Down in the basement, Buffy was pacing and swearing under her breath, infuriated that he had interfered and taken her prey. She promised herself that the bastard would pay, in spades. So intent on her inner dialogue, she didn’t detect Spike’s presence until he had touched her. The gentle touch startled her out of her reverie, and she reacted by spinning around and punching him… squarely in the nose.

“OWWW!whadidyagoandothafor!” Spike yelled, clutching his nose, agony radiating from it.

“OMG! I’m sorry, so sorry Spike.” Buffy clutched at him, trying to pull his hand off his nose. “I didn’t mean to hit you. I’m so sorry. Let me see.”

Realizing that head startled her, he knew that she didn’t mean it. “’S okay love. Just a lil bump, s’nothing.” Spike said, wiggling his nose and noticing that it wasn’t broken. “You pull your punch or something? Cause, just blood, not busted.”

“Yeah, I kinda reacted without thinking, and tried to stop when I realized it was you. I’m sorry Spike.” Buffy whispered as she wrapped her arms around him in a hug.

“S’my fault too love, I shouldna startled you like that. No worries.” Spike said as he returned her gentle hug. “Now, wanna tell me what’s got you in such a state? I mean, I know Peaches is gone, but I don’t think it deserves this kind of reaction.”

“It’s not the damned vampire that has me in this state; it’s the goddamned interfering bastard who took him that has me in this state.” Buffy stated as she slowly pulled away from Spike. “And as soon as Methos gets his ass back here with my stuff, that bastard and I are gonna have words!”


~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Dawn giggled as she darted into the kitchen, coming to a complete stop as she saw Giles sitting at the counter, with a stunned look on his face. She turned to Joyce who had been right behind her and loudly whispered, “I think someone broke him.”

Joyce edged past Dawn and approached the stunned Englishman in her kitchen. “Rupert? What’s wrong?”

Giles started, jarred from his stunned state by Joyce’s quiet inquiry. “Angel is gone.”

“GONE? What do you mean gone.” Joyce demanded. “I hope it’s the ‘oops we staked him’ kind of gone and not the ‘we let him go’ kind.”

“I’m afraid I don’t know which it is, dear. Spike went to check on him and came back saying he was gone. Buffy seems to be having some sort of temper tantrum, and Spike followed her downstairs. Oh, and Methos went to get her stuff. Said he’d be right back.” Giles muttered grumpily, feeling like a messenger boy.

“Well, who knows which it is? Does Spike? Does Methos? Does Mother? And what do you mean she’s having a temper tantrum?” Joyce punctuated her words with sharp jabs of her index finger into Giles shoulder.

“Joyce…” Giles started to say, but stopped when Buffy emerged from the basement, Spike following her like a pale shadow.

“He was taken, and I am so going to have words with the bastard who took him.” Buffy stated.

Methos stalked across town, a frown on his face, muttering to himself. “She hasn’t changed. Not one bit. No ‘Please, can you go get my bike’. It’s ‘Go get my bike my bike NOW’.” Running a hand through his hair in frustration, he cast his eyes skyward. “And I swear, if those 2 are down there having sex, while I’m running around this damned town fetching her bike, I’m gonna kill them BOTH!” He said the last words in a shout, not noticing that he had drawn the attention of a couple of elderly ladies.

“Sister, did you hear that? He’s threatening to kill someone!” one of them exclaimed in a shocked whisper.

“Really now Mary, does this surprise you? This IS Sunnydale after all.” The other said in an admonishing tone.

“I know Jackie, but really,” the one called Mary said with a sigh, “Does he have to be so vocal about it?”

Methos came to an abrupt halt, having heard what the ladies had said. He turned and gave the two his best, ‘I’m just so sweet and innocent’ smile. “I’m sorry if my outburst offended you ladies. I’m not usually so vulgar in the presence of such lovely women.”

“Oh, go on with you now,” Jackie said, lightly swatting his arm. “You will make me blush.”

Methos smiled and patted Jackie’s hand. “Allow me the pleasure of escorting you lovely ladies wherever you wish to go. After all, one can not be too careful these days.” Situating himself between the women, he gallantly offered each an arm.

“Jackie, I do declare this young man is flirting with us.” Mary said in a soft undertone. “I suggest we enjoy it while we can.”

Temporarily forgetting that he was on an errand for Buffy, Methos escorted the two women to the Espresso Pump for coffee.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Buffy, perhaps you could explain who this ‘he’ is that took Angel?” Giles inquired with exasperated politeness.

Buffy glanced at Giles, her expression so calm, so serene; one would think she had no cares. That is until one happened to see the fire burning in her eyes. “HE is a so-called representative for the Powers That Be. What he really is, is a smelly, meddling son of a bitch who is gonna get his rib cage removed and used as a hat-rack.” She said in a tone so vicious that it made everyone flinch.

“Oh my,” Giles said, shivering a little at the tone of her voice. “Is he evil? Do we need to call the others?”

“Not unless you count B.O. as being evil,” Buffy muttered.

Dawn piped up, “So, you just gonna give him a shower, and make him give that freak back?”

“Gonna do more than that, kiddo.” Buffy said with a small grin. “Gonna make that bastard wish he’d never gotten involved. Then I’m gonna take the ‘freak’ back and make him wish he’d never been born.”

Joyce poked Giles with again. “Is this what you meant when you said she was having a temper tantrum?” She shook her head. “THIS is actually calm. You need to see her when she is really pissed off.

Giles swallowed audibly as Buffy raised one slender eyebrow at him. “Ah, what happens when she gets really angry?”

Before Joyce could answer him, Buffy spoke in a calm, cold voice. “People tend to die. Violently.” Turning away from Giles, she glanced at the clock. “What is keeping is Methos. It doesn’t take this long to get to the cemetery and back.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~


Having spent an agreeable hour with Jackie and Mary, Methos was in a better mood. Smiling and laughing, he teased the elderly ladies, delighting in their blushes.

Touching Methos lightly on his arm, Mary leaned towards him and in a soft voice inquired, “What of the errand you were on when you met us, my dear?”

Methos’ brow furrowed in puzzlement, then his eyes widened in shock. “Oh hell, she’s gonna be so pissed…” He rose to his feet and smiled down at Mary and Jackie. “Ladies, it was a pleasure making your acquaintance. But I really must go…”

Jackie smiled in amused understanding. “Off with you then, young man. You mustn’t keep your young lady waiting.”

“She’s not my young anything…” Methos muttered. “She’s my mother. And she’s gonna skin me for taking so long.” Bowing a little to each of them, Methos made his exit.

“Sister, I do believe that young man has made my day. He’s so polite, and knows how to talk to a lady.” Mary said, with a wistful sigh. “I envy his mother, with such a gentleman for a son.”

“Indeed, Mary. He took time from his day to spend time with two old women he did not even know. We really must insist on meeting his mother the next time we run into him. And tell her what a fine young man he is.”

Methos hurried down the street towards the cemetery where Buffy had left her bike. “Fuck, she’s gonna have my hide, if I’m lucky. I better pray I’m lucky.” He rubbed a hand across the back of his neck. “Yeah, better pray to every god I know… that I’m lucky and she’s in a better mood when I get back with the bike.”

As Methos was (finally) hurrying to complete the errand Buffy had given him, Spike and Giles sat side by side at the kitchen counter, watching Buffy pace back and forth across the kitchen. “You know, this is almost as much fun as watchin’ footie on TV.” Spike said.

“Indeed. She seems to have quite the vocabulary.” Giles responded.

Buffy continued to pace back and forth, muttering under her breath. Each time she passed the window; she would pause, peer outside and then swear softly.

“Oh my.” Giles blinked and looked at Spike. “I didn’t think anyone knew how to speak that language anymore.”

“What did she say Rupes?” Spike inquired.

“I’m not quite sure, the language hasn’t been spoken in over 2000 years, but if I am correct she just threatened to…” Giles trailed off and removed his glasses. “Shove Methos’ head up his arse without the ease of removing it first.” Giles pulled out his handkerchief and began to polish his lenses.

Buffy paused and snickered softly. “Actually Giles, what I said was, ‘I’m gonna forcibly introduce him to what he ate last night.’ But it amounts to the same thing.”

Spike smirked and asked, “Need any help with that, pet? ‘Cause I’d love to hold him down and watch. Might learn a thing or two.”

With a wink and a sultry smile, Buffy informed the shocked duo that she could indeed teach them a thing or two… about torture.



Dawn sat on the end of her mother’s bed, watching her brush out her hair. “Mom, do you think…” Dawn trailed off, shaking her head. “Nah, forget it…”

Putting down her brush, Joyce turned to Dawn and asked, “Do I think what?”

Taking a deep breath, Dawn quietly asked, “Do you think we could convince Buffy to stay for a while, I mean for a long while?”

“Oh baby, I would love for her to stay. I don’t know if she would though, but we can ask her, right?” Joyce answered.

“I hope we can get her to stay, here in the house. I feel safer, ya know?” Dawn took a shaky breath. “I know you and Spike and the others would protect me, but I still feel safer with her here. I mean we wouldn’t have known about what was gonna happen until, well, it was already happening, if she didn’t show up when she did.” Dawn rambled on, trying to convince both herself and her mother.

Joyce settled on the bed beside Dawn and wrapped her arms around the trembling teen. “I understand completely sweetie. We’ll see what we can do to convince her to stay.” Joyce thought for a moment, silently rocking Dawn back and forth. “And hey, we can always get Spike to help us.”

“Oh YEAH!” Dawn said excitedly. “Spike soooo likes her. I’m sure he wants her to stay too!” Dawn started bouncing on the bed.



Buffy opened the back door just as Methos was about to turn the knob. “Took you long enough. Did you get lost?” Buffy asked, all polite-like.

Methos winced at the icy-politeness in Buffy’s tone, and scrambled to think up a believable excuse. “Well, you see…” he started, and dared a glance at the British duo in the kitchen, “I was rushing over to where your bike was, and I, um… ran across a couple of…” Methos trailed off as he saw the look of repressed laughter on Buffy’s face.

Spike snickered and hollered, “Oi mate, better tell her the truth. She might go easier on you!”

Buffy simply crossed her arms across her chest and tapped her foot impatiently.

Daring a glance around the kitchen, trying to subtly locate Buffy’s sword, Methos sighed heavily. “All right, all right. I was walking to the cemetery, like you told me to, and I came across these two elderly ladies. They overheard me talking to myself…”

Buffy interrupted, “You mean the heard you swearing and carrying on about having to grab my stuff.”

“Uh, yeah. Anyway, I couldn’t leave the ladies thinking poorly of me, and I invited them for coffee.” Methos ran his right hand across the back of his neck. “I kind of lost track of time, until one of the lovely ladies reminded me.” Methos dropped his eyes, and sighed.

Giles blinked and queried, “Two elderly ladies you say? They wouldn’t by chance happen to be sisters?”

Methos nodded. “Yeah, they called each other sister.”

Spike started laughing. “Welcome to Sunnyhell, Methos. You have had the pleasure of meeting two of the three Wyrd sisters. By the looks and sounds of it… you met Jackie and Mary right?”

Methos slipped past Buffy into the kitchen, realizing that he had a reprieve… for now. “How’d you know that Spike?”

Giles chuckled softly as a look of almost bashfulness passed across Spike’s face. “He met them almost the very instant he set foot in Sunnydale. Except he met all three of the sisters. Seems they were fascinated by the thought of someone like Spike actually being in town to do something other than mangle the local populace. They invited him round for tea, and pretty much tried to set him up with every young woman of their acquaintance. It was rather embarrassing, to say the least.” Giles turned to Spike and asked, “Do you remember the third ones name?”

“Yeah, her name is Faye,” Spike said with a small laugh. Turning to Methos, he informed him that he was lucky to NOT have met Faye, as she was one scary old bat.

Buffy shut the door and turned to face the three men. “Well, isn’t this nice. I would almost think the three of you were trying to make me forget how pissed off I am. Trust me boys, it isn’t working.” Reaching over, she yanked the duffle bag from Methos’ hand and stalked off to the basement. “I’ll be downstairs, preparing to get that snake back from the asshole. Do NOT bother me.” That said she slammed the basement door behind her.

Methos glanced at the other two and asked, “Why don’t we go grab a drink and talk? It’s bound to be safer than sticking around when she’s in that kind of mood.”

Both Giles and Spike agreed that they would be better off elsewhere and decided to head to Giles’ place.

“I’ll take the low road and meet you there. That pesky sunlight and all.” Spike snarked as he grabbed up his duster and prepared to make a dash for the sewers.

“Indeed. Methos and I shall take my car and meet you there.” Giles nodded as he dug his keys out of his pocket. “Let’s be off then, shall we?”

As one, the three of them left the house, oblivious to the plotting going on upstairs and more than happy to be away from the fuming female in the basement.

“So,” Giles began as he backed his car out of the driveway, “do you have any idea as to what she is planning?”

Methos grinned. “All I know for sure is that I’m glad it’s not me she is going after. When she gets her hands on them…” he trailed off and shrugged, “it won’t be pretty.”

“I see.” Giles stated in a tone that clearly indicated that he did not. After a sideways glance at Methos he asked, “I assume your compatriots are no longer in town?”

Giving Giles a startled look and wry grin Methos answered, “Nah, they bailed earlier this afternoon. Mac gets paranoid if he is gone too long. Thinks things will fall apart without him being there to get into trouble. ‘Manda went with him to try and keep him out of trouble…” he trailed off and laughed before continuing, “but knowing her, they’ll just get into even bigger trouble.”

“And the other? Cassandra I believe her name is?” Giles asked.

“She’s in LA, checking something out for Mother. She should be back soon.” Methos thought for a moment and then asked, “Why?”

“No specific reason really,” Giles answered, almost distractedly, “just curious I guess.”

“Curious about what?” Methos prodded.

“Well, how the whole immortal thing works, for starters.” Giles replied with a self-depreciating laugh. “I can’t help it really; it must be the watcher in me.”

Methos let out a chuckle. “Yeah, I can see how the watcher instincts will tend to take over more rational thought processes. But, I’ll try and answer your questions…” he trailed off as they approached Giles’ place and noticed the front door open. “Did you leave the door open?”

“No, I’m pretty sure I locked it.” Giles thought for a moment, while pulling up into his parking space. “Maybe Spike beat us here and just left it open?”

“While I’m pretty sure a snail could beat this car of yours, Spike doesn’t strike me as the sort of person to leave doors open.” Methos said as he climbed out of the car.

“No, he’s rather a stickler about such matters.” Giles stated as he too exited the vehicle. “Maybe I didn’t close it tight and the wind blew it open…” Giles reached for the door to push it open wider but was halted by Methos’ hand on his arm.

“Better let me go in first, just in case. After all, if someone is in there and intending bodily harm, I won’t end up dead.” Methos said as he gently brushed past Giles and opened the door.


Spike trudged his way through the underground tunnel system connected to Sunnydale’s sewers. “Wonder if Rupes still has that bottle of single malt I bought him.” Stifling a laugh as he remembered the look on Giles’ face that night, he muttered to himself, “Thought the old boy was gonna have a coronary.” Spike stopped as a slight sound reached his ears from a side tunnel just up a head. “Wonder who else will be taking the low road this evening…” He cautiously walked forward and found himself face to crossbow with a figure dressed in tweed. “Well well, if it isn’t a part of the wanker brigade.”

“Silence demon. You don’t have the right to speak to me,” the crossbow wielding man said in a stiff British accent. “The only thing you have the right to do is die.”

“I see,” Spike said with a grin. “You do realize that you might have had a better chance of killing me if you had actually, oh… SURPRISED ME. Instead of waiting in the dark where anyone with any sense of hearing could locate you, like the complete wanker you are.” As he said this, Spike knocked the crossbow upwards, and lashed out at the man holding it.

“You won’t stop us. Even if you kill me, our mission will be completed,” the man said gasping for air as he took the brunt of Spike’s punch in the center of his chest.

Spike wrenched the crossbow out of the man’s hands and closed his fingers around his throat. “What mission?” he growled.

The man remained silent, smirking in a rather annoying way.

“Well, I suppose I’ll just kill you and be on my way then,” Spike snarled as he vamped out, baring his fangs. Spike growled menacingly as he leaned in towards the man’s neck.

“Giles!” the man yelled. “We were sent to remove you and the renegade watcher.”

“What the soddin’ hell do you mean ‘renegade’,” Spike snarled. “Rupes has done everything you bloody wankers asked of him, including stopping more than one ‘end of the world’ scenario, WITHOUT your bloody help I might add.”

“Yeah, he did. Everything except rid the world of YOU,” the man choked out.

Snarling in full-blown anger, Spike shoved the man away from him and into the cement wall of the tunnel, rendering him unconscious. Spinning around, his duster swirling dramatically, Spike ran down the tunnel in the direction of Giles’ apartment. “If anything happens to Giles, I’ll bloody well take down the Council myself…” Spike muttered to himself.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Buffy stomped down the stairs to the basement, grumbling under her breath about idiotic men and their tendency to stick together in an effort to piss her off. Tossing her duffle on the bed, she stormed into the bathroom and turned the shower on as hot as it would go.

Stripping Spike’s black t-shirt off over her head, she stepped under the scalding spray of the shower. Buffy sighed in relief as she let the heat penetrate her entire body. “Oh, that feels so damned good, I could stay in here all day… or at least until the hot water runs out.” Realizing that the water would start turning colder soon, Buffy began washing herself with the same body wash she had used the night before.

After completing her cleansing ritual, Buffy shut off the rapidly cooling water and exited the bathroom. Padding naked into the bedroom, she gave a tendon popping stretch and groaned loudly. “Nothing like an extremely hot shower to get the blood pumping.” Fishing a silver-backed brush out of her bag, Buffy set the task of brushing out her wet hair.

While doing her hair, Buffy thought about the image she wanted to portray for the little retrieval she was going to do. “Do I want to do the ‘haughty priestess’ or the ‘pissed off warrior’?”



Joyce started down the stairs to the living room, with Dawn right on her heels. “Now remember pumpkin, if you are coming with me to the gallery, you will have to keep your hands, and your fingers, off the displays.”

“But Mom, I’m not as clumsy as I was last time!” Dawn protested.

“Last time was last week, young lady. Now, will you promise me, or do I call Willow and Tara to come watch you?” Joyce asked with a half-smile on her face.

“I promise…” Dawn said sullenly. “But I CAN look at things right? And maybe help you unpack some of the non-breakable things? Please?” she begged.

“We’ll see,” Joyce said. “Depends on how well you mind me.”

I’ll be good, I’ll be very good. No touching anything you say not to.” Dawn promised feverishly.

“Well, let’s go. I have a lot of work to do,” Joyce said as she picked up her keys. “Lock the door dear, and hurry up.”

Dawn pulled the door shut behind her as she followed her mother out to the Jeep. With a laugh, she and a bounce she looked forward to spending the day with her mother, and maybe coming up with a way to keep Buffy in Sunnydale for a long time.


Having decided to go with a combination of the two looks, Buffy pulled her hair into a high ponytail, leaving the ends free to trail down her back. Pulling a small box out of the bottom of her bag, she opened it and sighed. “I really don’t like putting this stuff on…” Lifting out a slender silver circlet set with a dark red stone, she placed it on her head, centering the stone in the middle of her forehead.

Extracting a roll of ebon silk, Buffy shook it out and spread it across the bed. “Gotta love spider silk…,” she muttered quietly, “it doesn’t wrinkle.” Looking around for her boots, she located them beside the dresser where Spike had placed them earlier. “Now let’s see…,” she said thoughtfully. “Pants are out, they just don’t go with the skirt, but I will need stockings under the boots.”

Grabbing a black thong panty from the bag, along with a pair of sheer stockings, Buffy slipped into them and thought for a moment. “Nah, no bra…” she glanced down at herself and shrugged. “Not like I need one anyway.”

Sitting herself down on the bed, she laced herself into the thigh-high, black leather, stiletto boots. Giggling to herself at the thought of what Spike would say if he saw her dressed like this, she dug around in the bag for her set of matching boot-knives. Slipping them into the sheaths built into her boots, she reached back into the bag for what looked like a pile of silver links, along with a wide black belt and some wicked looking silver stars.

Standing up, Buffy wrapped the ebon silk around herself, fashioning a long dress reminiscent of a Greek chiton. Using her sword belt to hold it closed, she fussed with the drape of the fabric until it suited her. Picking up the pile of silver links, she shook it out, taking care not to tangle the delicate-seeming construction. Being careful not to snag her hair, or the fabric of her gown, she slipped the silver construction over her head, where it settled across her upper body and draped down to her thighs, a light chain mail shirt wrought of delicate silver.

Settling the wide belt around her waist, using it to hold the chain mail in place, she proceeded to fasten the silver stars to the tiny hooks that dotted the belt at evenly spaced intervals. Buffy ran one slender finger along the edge of the last star, and grinned when she sliced open her finger. Placing this last star in it proper place, she picked up her sword, and slid it into the sheath on her back.

As she left the room, Buffy grabbed two last items. One was a roll of parchment that she tucked into the top of her right boot. The other was a long, black, hooded cape, which she fastened around her shoulders, drawing up the hood. “Looks like its show time.” Buffy said in a grim tone of voice. Then she smiled, “Oh I am so gonna enjoy this.”

Closing her eyes, Buffy summoned forth the part of her being that she seldom used, the part that is the child of the Dragon, with all the powers it entailed. Silver scales erupted along her cheekbones and above her eyebrows. They also patterned the backs of her hands, as her nails took on a decidedly deadly ruby hue. With a last look around, and a satisfied smirk on her face, Buffy shifted out of the human realm, into the realm of those that called themselves the Powers That Be.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Methos cautiously pushed open the door to Giles’ apartment, straining his senses to see if he could hear anything from within. Just as he turned back to tell Giles the coast seemed to be clear, a shot rang out, and he collapsed as a bullet passed through his chest.

Spike erupted from the manhole in front of the apartment block, just in time to hear the sound of gunfire coming from the direction of Giles’ home. Putting on a burst of speed, he reached the doorway just in time to see Methos collapse. Swearing loudly, he yanked Giles back, pushed him off to one side, then kicked open the door, and let out an angered snarl. “Show yourself you cowardly wanker. “It’s not like I can’t SMELL you. You reek of fear and dishonesty.” Spike growled as he strode into the apartment. “On second thought, don’t bother; hunting you down will make the blood taste all the sweeter when I rip out your throat.”

“Spike, quit your posturing and help me before he bleeds to death.” Giles shouted from outside the apartment. Kneeling beside Methos’ body, he attempted to staunch the blood-flow.

“Don’t bother Rupert.” Methos whispered raggedly. “I’ll be fine, just give me a moment.”




Joyce pulled her Jeep into her parking spot in the alley behind the gallery. “Now remember your promise young lady. No touching the displays.”

Dawn gave a small sigh and an eye roll as she murmured her assent. “I know Mom. I know. You’ve kept reminding me on the way over. Not like I’ve had a chance to forget!”

“Mind your manners, Dawn. Or you can sit in the office and stare at the wall.” Joyce said with an exasperated tone in her voice. “Come on, I’ve got a lot of work to do, and sitting here isn’t getting it done.” Joyce exited the vehicle and made her way to the back door of the gallery to unlock it, waiting for her daughter before she went inside.

“What do we do first? Unpack the crates? Dust? Ohhh I wanna dust!” Dawn practically bounced with excitement.

“Since both of those involve touching potentially breakable pieces, no.” Joyce said with a small laugh. “But what you can do is help me with the paperwork before we look at the crates. Okay?”

Dawn sighs dramatically, as only a teenage girl can. “Okay.”



Spike stalked forward, his demon reveling in the scent of fear that was swiftly filling his senses. He leaned over the counter separating the kitchen from the rest of the apartment, and chortled with glee as he encountered the cowering tweed-clad form of the gunman. “Well lookie here, see what I’ve found.” Spike said as he leapt over the counter and grabbed the man by the throat. “I think I’ve found our wanna-be assassin, Rupes.”

Giles entered his home, assisting Methos who was still a little out of it. “That’s good then.” He gently placed Methos on the couch and fixed a glare on the man Spike was holding. “Care to tell me what this is all about?”

The man garbled something unintelligible and raised a shaky hand to point the gun at Giles.

Spike casually reached out his other hand and ripped the gun out the man’s hand, snapping his wrist in the process. “None of that now, mate. The man asked you a question, and it would be in your best interests to answer him.”

Tossing an exasperated look at Spike, Giles gently reminded him, “He can’t speak with you cutting off his air.”

Looking at the man he was holding, Spike chuckled at the decidedly bluish cast to the man’s features. “Right, got any ropes to tie the wanker up with then? Or do you just want me to bust his legs so he can’t walk?”

Methos let out a short bark of laughter. “As satisfying as it would be to watch him writhe in pain when you break his legs, I think we should just sit him down and ask him a few questions.” He rose to his feet and glared at the man who had shot him. “You ruined a 200$ sweater you berk.”

Spike dragged the man out of the kitchen and forcefully planted him in one of the dining chairs. Standing behind him, Spike kept his hands on the gunman’s shoulders, effectively holding him in place. “Well then, what shall we do with him, gents?

Giles took off his glasses and grinned a decidedly Ripper-like grin. “Why don’t we find out why he’s here first, and then decide what to do with him?”

Spike snarled in repressed anger. “Already know why he’s here old man. Ran into his buddy in the sewers, found out the Council sent them here to kill us.”

“Now why would the Council send a couple of idiots like these to kill the two of you?” Methos asked with a puzzled frown. “I thought you worked for the Council?”

“We do. Or at least I do,” Giles said with a frown. “Maybe they are renegades?” He looked at Spike to see if he had a different opinion.

“Talked to one that tried to ambush me in the sewers. He was right talkative, told me all kinds of interesting things. Like how you are considered a renegade and that you refused orders to kill me.” Spike said with a smirk. “They seem to think that the fact of me helping you stop a couple of apocalypses, and keeping you alive in the bargain, makes you a baaaaad watcher.”


Methos glanced between the two Englishmen with a frown on his face. “Wait a minute, you are telling me that they sent these guys to kill you, because Spike is helping you instead of killing you?” He scratched his chest where the bullet had entered, a thoughtful look on his face. “Has it occurred to you that maybe they sent you to the Hellmouth to die Rupert?”

Giles nodded in understanding. “Actually, yes it had occurred to me, about the time they informed me that “one old vampire” trying to escape his underground imprisonment didn’t warrant the attentions of a Slayer.”

Spike broke in with a disgruntled laugh. “Never mind that the “old vampire” was the Master himself, trying to open the sodding Hellmouth to release some old deity.”

Methos blinked in astonishment, “Master… as in Nest? Heinrich Nest?” He barely waited for the answer to that question before asking another. “Are they out of their fucking minds?”

Spike laughed derisively, “Yeah, they must be. ‘Cause they are seriously pissing me off.”

“Not what I meant, Spike.” Methos said shaking his head. “When Mother hears about this, heads are gonna roll.”

As Buffy shifted into solidity in the realm of the Powers That Be, she cast out her senses, in an attempt to locate every being within range. Her head swam with the sensation of power that brushed her senses and set every nerve to tingling. “Now I remember why I hate doing this…,” she muttered to herself.

Two people, one male, one female, moved towards her, their faces set in an expression of disinterested curiosity. “Why have you come before us, lower being?” the male asked. “Did you bring me a present?” the female asked.

“You know, you two should really check into who you are talking to before you assume that you know them.” Buffy said with a low growl, causing the twins to pale.

As one they dropped to one knee, “Forgive us Lady, we were not expecting you,” the female twin whispered.

“Now what fun would it be if I were expected,” Buffy said with a smirk as she brushed past them. “I am here for a reason, and that reason involves your bosses and their interfering messenger. Take me to them. Now!” Buffy waited expectantly and impatiently for them to do as she had requested.

“Of course, Lady. Follow us, please,” the male said as he and his sister rose to their feet and motioned for Buffy to follow them. They led her down a long, pale green corridor and stopped before a closed bronze door. “They are within, but I’m afraid with the door closed…” the female started. “… no-one is able to enter their presence,” the male continued.

“Luckily I’m not no-one,” Buffy said with a smile. “Thank you for escorting me, I won’t keep you from your duties any longer.” Then she turned towards the door, having dismissed the twins from the forefront of her perceptions. She placed her hand on the door and gave it a slight push, frowning when it refused to budge. “I am so not in the mood to play their pathetic games,” she muttered to herself. Placing both of her hands on the door, Buffy gave a hard push, focusing her considerable will behind the push, forcing them open.

The gathered group of beings turned towards the door as it slammed open, bouncing off the walls and reverberating with the sound of cracking marble. “Who dares disturb the peace of our sanctuary?” a voice boomed out from the midst of the gathering.

“You have GOT to be kidding me. You send your errand boy to STEAL my prey and then have the nerve to try to lock me out. And tell me I’m not expected?” Buffy snarled in exasperation.

A young-looking creature with pale violet skin and vibrant green eyes stepped forward. “Who are you to accuse us of such actions,” it said with a note of disdain in its voice.

Buffy stalked across the floor separating herself from the gathered beings. Pausing approximately 5 feet from them, she yanked her hood down and gave the assembly a haughty scowl. “Has it been so long since I last walked these halls that you have forgotten who I am, Tannic?”

Tannic frowned and replied, “I had thought you banished from these realms for your misdeeds. How is it that you stand before us once again?”

“Banished? I LEFT this collection of adle-pated fools and their never-ending games. I left it gladly!” Buffy stated, standing before them like a statue shrouded in darkness, her hair shimmering in the diffused light, the ruby gemstone on her brow twinkling like a bloodthirsty eye.

A delicately formed girl edged her way from within the group and asked, “If you left here so willingly, why have you returned?” She raised one silver eyebrow and seemed to be patiently awaiting Buffy’s response.

Buffy sighed in irritation. “Just once Deais, I wish you would pay attention. You might look like a child, but do you have to act like one?” Buffy swept through the crowd and ascended the raised platform behind them.

At once, a murmur of outrage rose from the group at her audacity and rudeness. Deais just sighed and shook her head. “You claim we have stolen something from you? Would you care to enlighten us as to what this something is?”

“How about this, I tell you what, you guys give me back who you took, PLUS the idiot who took him, and I’ll leave you to your parlor games. How does that sound?” Buffy asked in a bored tone of voice.

“Well, who did we take and who is the idiot?” Tannic asked, coming forward to present his question.

Buffy raised an eyebrow and chuckled. “The idiot would be your messenger boy. I believe he goes by the name of “Whistler” or some such nonsense.” Buffy crossed her arms, her cloak parting to allow the assemblage a glimpse of her ebon gown and silver chain mail.

Tannic nodded his head, “He shall be here momentarily.” He came closer and stood beside Deais, “Will you tell us who the other is? The one Whistler supposedly stole?”

“All in good time Tannic, all in good time. I want Whistler to be here for this.” Buffy replied as she examined her nails, spreading her fingers apart and letting the light glint off their razor-sharp edges.

A few moments passed, with everyone trying hard not to stare at Buffy as she calmly paced back and forth across the raised platform.

Whistler popped into the room and sauntered over to Tannic. “You wanted to see me boss?”

Buffy stepped off the platform and grabbed Whistler by the scruff of his neck, her nails pricking into his flesh. “He didn’t, but I sure did,” she said with a snarl. “Now, care to tell me where you took him?”

“T-t-ook who?” Whistler asked, his eyes opened so wide they looked like they were about to pop out.

“You know exactly who I mean, you smelly little bastard. I want to know where he is and why in hell you thought you could interfere in something that wasn’t your damned business in the first place!” Buffy snarled, the scale patterns on the backs of her hands now enveloping her entire hand and arms up to the elbow. “Tell me where you took Angelus and I MIGHT let you live.”

Giles turned to Methos and raised one eyebrow in query. “She has something against the Council?”

“Not so much against the Council, per say. Mostly against idiots who think they know better than anyone else about what’s happening, regardless of what is actually going on.” Methos replied with a chuckle.

“What do you mean?” Giles asked as he went over to the chest under the window and extracted a set of chains.

“Well, a while back, James Horton decided that Mac was out to take over the world. So he started setting him up.” Methos began.

“Setting him up? You mean sending people after him?” Spike asked as he helped Giles chain the wanna-be assassin to the chair.

“In a way,” Methos answered, as he took a seat on the couch. “See, the rules state, One on One combat ONLY. No interference from outsiders, and Never on Holy Ground.” Methos leaned forward, crossing his arms across his knees. “Well Horton decided to send mortals after Mac, to keep him off guard.”

Spike forced the council member’s mouth open, and stuffed the end of the man’s tie into it. “Well, mortals shouldn’t have given him any trouble, right?”

Giles fetched the bottle of Glenmorangie Single Malt Scotch from his sidebar, along with three glasses. “From what I understand, it would take a knowledge of what he is, for a mortal to actually do him permanent damage. Am I right, Methos?”

“Yes, normally that would be correct. But these ‘gentlemen’ were only there to soften him up for the main event.” Methos accept the glass that Giles offered him. “They set up an ambush in an abandoned building, using someone Mac cares a great deal for as bait.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Buffy shook Whistler until his teeth rattled. “Well? Are you going to answer me or has your mouth finally become disconnected from your pathetically small brain?”

Tannic grabbed Buffy’s arm “Let him GO. He was doing his job.”

Buffy turned to Tannic, one eyebrow arched, “does his ‘job’ include making off with pedophiles awaiting trial?”

Tannic’s eyes shifted away from Buffy’s penetrating glare. “I don’t know what you mean; he hasn’t done anything like that at all. And he doesn’t operate without my full knowledge and consent.”

“So I guess you are the one to blame for this bullshit then, Tannic?” Buffy asked a dangerous tone in her voice.

Deais looked at Tannic, “what is going on here? What is she talking about Tannic?”

“I don’t know what is going on Deais, she’s obviously demented.” Tannic stated as he turned away and slowly headed for the doors. “And I do not have to stay here and be insulted like this.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“So mate, you were saying that they ambushed Mac? What did they use on him? Whips? Chains? Guns?” Spike asked with a twinkle in his eye.

“Guns,” Methos said as he knocked back his drink. “They shot him full of holes in order to weaken him for the main event.”

“That is simply barbaric.” Giles stated in a pompous tone of voice. “Oh lord, someone slap me, I’m channeling Travers.”

Spike reached over and slapped Giles across the face. “There ya go Rupes, don’t say I never do what you ask.”

“Thanks ever so Spike,” Giles said as he rubbed his jaw. “Did you have to hit me so bloody hard?”

“Still talkin’ ain't ya?” Spike snarked as he poured himself another drink.

Methos extended his glass in a silent request for more. “Well, barbaric as it might seem to a stuffed shirt like Travers, Horton thought it was perfectly acceptable.” Methos glanced over to where the chained man was squirming in his chair. “Speaking of barbaric, what are we going to do with him?”

“Dunno yet mate. If it were up to me I’d snap his neck and drop him off the pier.” Spike shrugged. “But somehow I don’t think I’ll be allowed to do that.” Spike jerked his thumb in Giles’ direction. “The watcher there has a conscience .”

Giles rubbed the bridge of his nose and sighed. “Sometimes a conscience is not all its cracked up to be. I’m seriously considering letting you do just that.” He looked at his empty glass and grimaced. “Right then, more to drink and maybe that thought will be more appealing.”

“That’s the spirit ol’boy. Loose the conscience and make with the fun. It worked for me.” Spike raised his glass towards Giles in salute.

“Yes well, not all of us can set aside human rules and morals to suit our whims.” Giles softly replied.

“Always seemed to work for me, Mr. Giles. And I am human, sort of.” Methos said with a smirk. “Now where were we…? Oh yes, Mac and Horton. Anyway, after the guys with the guns ventilated Mac…” Methos broke off as Giles started snickering. “What’s so funny?”

“Mac… ventilation… a fan…” Giles sputtered.

Methos looked over at Spike who shrugged, “No clue… I think he’s cracked.” Spike thought for a moment, “Either that or he’s drunk, but I don’t think he’s had more than 3 drinks so far.” He glanced back at Methos and asked, “So, what happened next?”

“Seems Horton as in league with this real bad-ass immortal who had a grudge against Mac for some reason or other. While Mac was laying there trying to heal from a dozen bullet holes, he walks in a tries to take Mac’s head.” Methos shakes his head as he reaches for the bottle. “Mother shows up about then and kicked all their asses. The immortal ended up headless… and Horton… well lets just say he’s no longer bothering us with his inane presence.”

“She sounds like my kinda girl.” Spike said with a grin. “I love a woman who protects her family and doesn’t take crap from anyone.”

“Speaking of which, just what exactly is going on between you and my Mother.” Methos inquired with deceptive calm.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~


Before Tannic could reach the doors, the swung shut and locked themselves. He swung back around, looking for whoever had done it, a scowl on his face.

“Going somewhere Tannic,” Deais asked as she placed a slender hand on his arm. “I think you had best stay here and answer Buffy’s questions, because I have more than a few of my own to ask.” She pulled Tannic back over in front of Buffy and motioned for a large, armored form to come and take hold of Whistler. “Let the Cearitic hold the messenger, Lady, while we get to the bottom of this.”

Buffy pushed Whistler towards the cearitic and turned to Deais with smile. “Of course dear. That is why I am here. To get to the bottom of this entire situation.”

Spike turned to Methos with a calm outward appearance and said, “Dunno what you mean mate. Wanna clarify that for me?”

Methos stared at Spike, his eyes burning with a fire that was at odds with his bland expression. “Need I remind you, that the entire HOUSE heard you this morning?” He took a sip of his drink. “So, I shall ask you one more time, what exactly is going on between you and my Mother.”

Giles started laughing, “Looks like you are going to have to face the music Spike. Could not have happened to a better man… errr vampire.” Giles snorted and slapped Spike on the shoulder.

Spike sighed and scratched the back of his neck. “I know what has already happened. And I know what I want to happen, but it’s up to her.”

Methos nodded his head once, sharply. “Remember that. It IS up to her, and if you hurt her, in any fashion, you will have me to deal with.”

Spike nodded, “Understood.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Buffy crossed her arms and fixed her gaze on Tannic. “Why do I have the feeling that you know a hell of a lot more than you are telling us?”

Tannic sneered at Buffy, “What we do is none of your business. We are the Powers That Be. You do not have the authority to question me, or my decisions.”

Buffy darted forward, and grabbed Tannic by the throat, choking off his airway. “You had best remember who it is you are speaking to, CHILD, before I loose what little control of my temper that I have left.” She shook him roughly, a rumbling growl issuing from her chest. “Now you will tell me everything that you had Whistler do, and the reasons behind your instructions, or I shall reach inside your pathetic little brain and tear the information out myself.”

Deais placed a hand gently on Buffy’s shoulder. “Gently Lady. We all wish to hear what he has to say.” Turning to Tannic, she glared at him. “I for one, am very interested in why you saw fit to remove the Cursed One from his appointed duties.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Spike looked at Methos and started to say something, then closed his mouth and shook his head, muttering to himself.

Catching Spike’s actions from the corner of his eye, Methos quirked one eyebrow and asked, “Is there something you wanted Spike?”
“Dunno if I should, or not. I mean it could be something she doesn’t want people knowing about, and if that’s the case, you wouldn’t know anyway, but I can’t see myself asking her about it without sounding rather intrusive, so… what do you think?” Spike said in a long, rather rambled rush.

Giles lurched to his feet, having consumed five glasses of whiskey, and headed to the bathroom. As he passed the tied-up watcher, he hollered at Spike. “Get rid of this lump of trash, would you. He is starting to stink up the place. I nice long walk off the short end of the pier should do nicely.” He stumbled into the bathroom and closed the door behind him.

Spike and Methos shared a look and laughed. “Looks like ol’ Rupes is right snookered. He’s lost that uptight attitude of his.” Spike snarked.

“Indeed, although I suspect he’s not as drunk as he would like us to think.” Methos said with a wry grin. “More likely he’s trying to give you some space to ask what it is you are stumbling over.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~


Buffy turned to Deais and asked softly, “Just what was Angelus’ appointed task?”

“He is charged with protecting the Slayer, to teach her that not all demons are of evil intent.” Deais looked at Buffy. “He is supposed to keep her alive longer than the previous ones.

“Care to explain what he was doing in Sunnydale then?” Buffy said with deceptive calm.

“What do you mean? He was in Cleveland, where the Slayer is. That is where he was sent.” Deais said with a look of utter confusion on her face.

“That may be where you wanted him to be, but that not where he was.” Buffy smirked. “Who was sent to tell him where to go?”

“Tannic sent Whistler to tell him Lady.” An older-looking male figure stepped forward. “We were all here when Tannic told Whistler to tell the Cursed One his destination.” The male figure scratched his beard, “In fact his exact words were, ‘Tell the Cursed One where he must go and what he must do.’ Didn’t think much of it until now, but if the vampire was not in Cleveland, but in Sunnydale, what was the reason behind it?”

Buffy nodded, “Indeed Kylian, and I think we shall ask Whistler first.” She turned to Whistler and inquired, “What was the exact message Tannic sent you to take to Angelus?”

Whistler swallowed and darted a glance at Tannic, who was currently being choked by Buffy. “Well, it was like this. The bosses wanted Angel sent to Cleveland to watch over the Slayer, but Tannic thought he’d be of more use in Sunnydale, on the Hellmouth, seeing as it didn’t have a slayer present.”

“So,” Buffy said with a snarl, “Tannic here took it upon himself to go against the wishes of his fellows, and send the vampire to Sunnydale. Without their knowledge or consent.”

“Yes Lady, he did.” Whistler said quietly, looking very nervous.

Buffy snapped her fingers and summoned another ceatric. “Hold this imbecile.” She shoved Tannic at it, and turned away, her thoughts racing.

Tannic started to struggle against the hold the ceatric had on him, his voice rising in indignation and outrage. “Let me GO! I command you to let me go!”

Deais shook her head and told the ceatric to silence Tannic. It did so by placing one of its four hands over his mouth.

Buffy paused in her pacing and looked up, “Someone summon Angelus here please. I think it would be best to have him on hand for this little interrogation.”


~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Spike sighed softly and began. “Yesterday, just before the fight began, Buffy did something that has me confused. Well she did and said something, and I was wondering what it meant.”

“What did she say and do Spike?” Methos inquired.

“She sliced open her finger, rubbed the blood on my lips, and made me lick it off.” Spike ran a hand over his face. “Then she muttered something I didn’t quite catch, and told me that they wouldn’t be able to kill me while she was alive.”

Methos dropped his glass and stared in shock at Spike. “She did what?!?!?”

Deais closed her eyes for a moment and when she opened them, she turned to Buffy and nodded. “The Cursed One shall be here momentarily.” She paused for a second and the asked quietly, “Might we know what he has done to incur your wrath?”

Buffy simply shrugged her shoulders and said, “He thought to take that which was not his to have.” Then she turned towards the raised platform and seated herself on the large chair resting there, pulling her hood once more over her head to shadow her face.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Methos sat stupefied, his face the perfect picture of complete shock. Slowly he raised his hand to his mouth, as if to take a drink. When he failed to taste the whiskey that was in his glass, he blinked slowly, gazing at his empty hand and then looked around in consternation. “Where did I put my glass…?”

Spike reached down, picked up the glass off the carpet, and refilled it before handing it to Methos. “Here ya go mate. Looks like you need this.” He sat back in his chair and watched as Methos downed the contents in one swallow. “Wanna tell me what has you all twisted round arse backwards?”

Methos took a deep breath and focused his gaze on Spike, then let it travel to their unwanted guest. “What do you say we lose the excess baggage first, and then I’ll tell you? There are things some people are not meant to know, and the Council is top of the list of those who don’t need to know.”

Spike surged to his feet, a sparkle of mischief in his eyes. “Right then, is it the dump, or the pier?” He turned towards the tied-up, wanna-be assassin and gave him a wicked grin. “Or maybe we should just chop him into small bits and send those bits back to Travers?”

Methos laughed at the look of utter terror on the face of their ‘guest’. “I’m thinking I like your style, Blondie.” He rose up from the couch he had been sitting on and headed for the door. “Bring him, if you would?”

Spike untied the man from the chair and yanked him non-to gently upright. “This is just to get back at me for this morning? Right?” Grabbing the man by the back of the neck, Spike forced him out the door, following Methos.

Giles chuckled to himself as he listened to Spike and Methos haul his assailant out of the apartment. “I might not be as young as I once was, but I am by no means stupid.” Giles thought to himself, “I’ll just stay in here, maybe grab a quick shower, while they dispose of the complication.” He reached over and turned on the shower, adjusting the temperature until it was steaming perfectly. “Yeah, not so stupid. Pretend to be intoxicated so I don’t have to deal with the unpleasantness.” Giles stripped down and stepped into the shower, humming softly to himself.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Joyce hurried Dawn out the door of the gallery. “Hurry up slowpoke, we need to get home. You do have to go to school tomorrow young lady.”

“Yeah yeah, I’m comin’ I’m comin’” Dawn quipped as she darted underneath her mother’s outstretched arm and bolted for the jeep. “Who’s the slowpoke now?” She taunted her mother.

Shaking her head, Joyce followed Dawn to the jeep and got inside. “Now, while I’m cooking supper, you will have a shower and get the dust out of your hair.” Joyce looked over at her dusty daughter. “After supper, we’ll watch some TV before you have to go to bed.”

“OH! Can we have enchiladas? And watch that new TV show? What is it called…? Torchbranch or something?” Dawn bounced in her seat.

“Enchiladas it is. And I think the show is called Torchwood. Although why you want to watch that is beyond me…” Joyce laughed gently, knowing the exact reason why.

“C’mon mom! You know that guy looks like Spike.” Dawn said with a squeal. “I wanna see if he behaves like Spike does!”

Laughing aloud at her daughter’s antics, Joyce agreed. “Yes, he does look somewhat like Spike. But you know what Spike will say.” Looking at Dawn she grinned and continued, “He’ll call him a ‘ponce’ or something equally British.” As she drove towards home, they talked about the similarities between Spike and American actor that looked so much like him.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

The assembled Powers arranged themselves in a semi-circle beside the dais on which Buffy sat, with her at the central position. They were curious to see what would happen next, but even more concerned that one of their coterie had apparently been running his own agenda.

Buffy watched as the Oracle twins escorted Angel into the room. She smirked, her facial expression unseen by those in the room, noting that Angel was acting as if he was in charge. “That will change, very soon. Oh yes indeed it will.” Buffy thought to herself.

Angel stopped five feet from the dais, his eyes darting around the room, taking in the assembled beings, before coming to rest on the long, slender legs of the woman sitting in the chair in front of him. He plastered his most smarmy smile on his face, thinking he was being charming. “You asked to see me, sweetheart?” Angel purred.

Buffy slowly rose to her feet, noting that the semi-circle had closed itself behind Angel, effectively cutting him off from the door. “Indeed, I summoned you here to face charges, Cursed One,” she said, motioning for the ceatric to bring both Tannic and Whistler forward. “I believe you are familiar with at least one of these men,” she stated.

Angel gaped at the sight of Whistler being held in the grip of the massive guard. “What’s going on here? I demand that you release him immediately!” he shouted taking a threatening step forward.

Deais stepped up beside Buffy and in a hard tone stated, “You have no right to make demands of us, Cursed One. We are the Powers That Be. You stand before us, along with these two, to answer the questions put forth by this assemblage.”

Angel glared at Deais and with a snarl declared, “I have done nothing to warrant such treatment!”

Buffy stepped forward, lowering her hood and exposing her face for the first time to Angel’s view. “That depends on just exactly what you consider nothing to be.”

Angel’s bottom jaw dropped, and he darted a glance at Whistler and the still-gagged Tannic, for the first time feeling a small frisson of concern chase down his spine.

They had not gone very far when their prisoner made a pathetic attempt to escape. Needless to say, the attempt was not only unsuccessful, but also rather embarrassing, as he found that he could not break Spike’s hold on him.

“Tryna go somewhere?” Spike asked, arching his left eyebrow. “Or were you maybe hoping to snap your own neck and save me the trouble?”

“Perhaps he is trying to impress you with his attempts?” Methos said in a wry voice.

“What would impress me is if the bugger would quit squirming.” Spike shook his prisoner roughly. “He’s starting to piss me off.”

Methos paused and wrinkled his brow in thought. “I just had a rather disturbing idea run through my head.” He locked eyes with Spike. “What if they went after more than just you and Giles?”

Spike looked at Methos with a blank expression and then his eyes widened. “You don’t think they’d go after Joyce and the Nibblet do you?”

“Well, I wouldn’t say they won’t, but based on past experiences with the other end of the Council; I’d say anything is possible.” Methos said with a grimace.

Spike growled deep in his chest, his eyes flaring to a demonic yellow. “If those bastards know what’s good for them, they won’t even think about going near Joyce and Dawn.”

Methos dug out his cell phone, “I’ll give Joyce a call, and warn her.”

Spike nodded, “Best give the watcher the heads up as well.” Spike rattled off Giles’ number as he turned his gaze to the man he was holding captive. “Now what should I do with you?”

The man started to squirm and utter high-pitched squeaks through the gag he was wearing. His eyes were huge, looking almost ready to pop out of his face and he was rapidly shaking his head.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Joyce pulled the Jeep into the driveway, laughing at Dawn’s antics. “I’m sure Spike would never say something like that dear. He does have better taste than that!”

“Well, sure. Not about the poodle. But c’mon mom, you must admit he does like looking, and commenting about women!” Dawn exclaimed, bouncing in her seat.

“Alright, alright! I will admit he does like looking at women. However, you should not be talking about things like that. Especially about Spike. You know how he gets.” Joyce looked over at Dawn and winked.

Dawn laughed, “Yep!” She deepened her voice and adopted a very bad English accent. “Bloody hell, can’t you bleeding females find something else to do besides torment a man?” Resuming her normal voice she continued, “He’d rant and rave like that for hours.”

Joyce laughed aloud at her daughter’s semi-accurate portrayal of the erstwhile vampire. “Let’s get in the house, and get supper started shall we?”

Dawn bounced out of the Jeep and ran to the back door. “Hurry up Mom! I’m hungry!”

Joyce followed at a more sedate pace, “You know, you still need that shower before I even think of letting you sit with me at the table young lady.” Joyce unlocked the back door and ushered Dawn into the house. “Upstairs and into the shower, I’ll start supper.” Just then, the phone started ringing. “After I get the phone.” Joyce picked up the phone, “Hello?” Her eyes took on a decidedly worried look. “Yes, she’s right here. What’s going on?” She reached out a hand and grabbed Dawn before she could leave the kitchen.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

As always when faced with something beyond his control, Angel went on the offensive. “You stabbed me you fucking bitch!” he snarled, being careful to stay out of her reach.

Buffy laughed at Angel’s posturing. “Why don’t you tell these lovely people just why I stabbed you? Or are you afraid it might tarnish your image?”

“I don’t have to tell anyone anything,” Angel shouted. “I am the Chosen Champion of the Powers that Be. Everything I do, I do with their full approval.”

Buffy stopped laughing and looked at Deais. “So, he has your approval to lurk outside the bedroom window of underage girls? To watch them undress? I find that hard to believe.” Buffy turned to Tannis, “Since you are the one who wanted him in Sunnydale, I’m assuming that you at least approved of his actions?”

Deais gasped in outrage. “There is no way that any of our number would approve or condone what you have accused him of.”

Tannis shook his head and muttered, “No, that’s not why I wanted him there.” He sighed softly. “I wanted him there to keep an eye on the Watcher. I’ve suspected that something isn’t right with regards to his being on the Hellmouth without a Slayer present.”

Buffy looked at Tannis with something akin to skepticism and reluctant respect. “Did you suspect the watcher of something, or were you merely trying to ensure that nothing untoward happened?”
“We have known for some time that he consorts with a soulless vampire. I was concerned that he was allowing that association to lure him from his chosen path,” Tannis said, a sheepish look crossing his face. “In retrospect, I should have shared my concerns with the rest of the assemblage, but I felt it was the right thing to do.”

Deais nodded, “Yes you should have discussed your concerns with the rest of us, but we can understand why you did what you did.”

Buffy nodded in agreement. “Yeah, I can understand it. I can even agree that you did what you thought was best in that regard. But why in hell did you send Whistler to jack Angel from getting what he deserved?”

Tannis looked confused, “I didn’t send Whistler to prevent Angel from being justly punished.”

“So you are saying that Whistler acted on his own?” Deais asked with a wry twist of her lips. “I suppose it wouldn’t be the first time he did that.”

“Very well, I shall leave it up to the assemblage to deal with Tannis’ lack of communication skills. And I shall trust that it won’t happen again.” Buffy stated with a stern look at Tannis, and signaled the ceatric to let him go.

Angel, annoyed at being summoned, insulted and then ignored, snarled, “Who gives a flying fuck about that. I suggest you start explaining to ME why you saw fit to stab me and have my tongue cut out! Not to mention chaining me up in a goddamned bathtub and sleep-spelled!” He started pacing, gesturing randomly. “How dare you do that to me!”

Deais and Buffy shared a look of amused intolerance at Angel’s theatrical ravings. Deais shook her head and said, “Do shut up Cursed One. Before steps are taken to ensure your silence.”

Tannis approached Buffy cautiously, hoping she was not mad at him enough to hurt him. “My Lady, can you inform us why you saw fit to stab The Cursed One?”

Angel smirked, thinking that the bitch was going to be in trouble for harming him.

Buffy turned to Tannis and, in a cold tone, told him “My granddaughter was in her bedroom, preparing for bed, when I heard her scream. I arrived to find this,” she gestured to Angel, “spying on her through her bedroom window. Turns out it was not the first time he had done this, nor the first young girl he had done it to.”

Several of the Powers gasped as the full import of what Buffy had said sunk in, but it was Tannis who spoke. “You mean you caught him spying on her whilst she was undressing? And he apparently makes a habit of it?”

“That would be exactly what I mean, Tannis.” Buffy stated, and smirk on her face as she took note of the disgusted looks being thrown Angel’s way by everyone in the chamber.

An older lady queried, “Your granddaughter would be young Joyce’s daughter, yes? And she’s 13?”

Buffy nodded in response to the lady’s inquiry. “She’s almost 14, and yes she is Joyce’s daughter.”

“Should have just sliced him in half, solved the entire problem…,” the lady muttered as she threw a dark look towards Angel.

Angel glowered as he loudly protested, “I was just doing what I had been told to do!”

Tannis whirled on Angel, “And who told you to spy on children? You were sent to keep an eye on the Watcher, NOT to indulge in any sexual deviancies.”

Buffy snorted, “It was brought to my attention that he has had this tendency for quite some time. Did none of you actually look at his past actions to determine if he was suitable for the task you had asked of him?” She looked around the room, one eyebrow cocked. “It is my understanding that the current slayer is a young woman of 16 years. If he had actually done as you had planned, and met up with her, what is to say he would not have practiced his ‘deviancies’ on her?”

This question was met with a flurry of whispered comments and thoughtful looks as they considered Buffy’s words.

His temper having reached the breaking point, both at being ignored and the questioning of his champion status, Angel flew at Buffy, fully intending bodily harm.

With a gasp of outrage at Angel’s behavior, Tannis gestured to the ceatric to apprehend the enraged vampire and hold him. “I think it would be better for all concerned if you were restrained.”

Whistler started to shake as the import of what he had done began to sink into his brain. He wondered if he would be able to get out of this with all parts intact.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Spike glared at the squirming, squeaking man he was holding. “Shut up and keep still you pillock.” He watched and listened as Methos talked to Joyce on the phone.

“Joyce, take a deep breath, its okay. But as soon as I hang up the phone I want you and Dawn to get over to the watcher’s place.” He paused. “Yes, I’m positive it’s safe, we just don’t want to take any chances.” Methos nodded slowly, forgetting that she could not see him. “Just go Joyce, and be careful.” He snapped the phone shut and pinched the bridge of his nose between two fingers. “Damn, I forgot how argumentative she can be.”

“Joyce giving you a hard time?” Spike asked with a smirk on his face.

“As always.” Methos replied with a sigh. “To top it all off, Dawn is put out at missing her new favorite show, some silly British thing about torches…” Methos trailed off, shaking his head. “The things kids watch these days.”

Their un-wanted companion started squirming and struggling again, thinking that their attention was elsewhere. He was wrong.

“I think we need to dispose of this complication, and return to the watcher’s apartment.” Methos commented in a casual way. “Any suggestions as to the fastest method?”

“Well,” Spike said, scratching the back of his neck, “as I see it, there are two routes we could take. One would be using your sword to remove the blighters head; the other would be draining him and walking away from the corpse.”

Methos thought about it for a moment and asked, “Which is likely to garner the least suspicion from the local police?”

“Draining him, and dumping the body.” Spike responded without hesitation. “But,” and here he paused, “How would Buffy take it if I did that?”

Methos looked at Spike with some surprise. “You are worried about what Mother would think of you killing this waste of space?”

“Well, yeah. It would not do to piss her off. She’s more than a little handy with that sword of hers.” Spike said with a smirk.

“Not to mention, she’d not indulge in any more sexual escapades with you if she gets upset with you.” Methos said with a laugh.

“Damned straight!” Spike stated, and then grinned sheepishly. “She’s addictive…”

Methos laughed at the expression on Spike’s face. “Somehow I don’t think she’d mind if you drained this bugger. After all, he did try to kill someone important to her daughter, not to mention put a hole in me. So I think it’s safe to say that you may indulge your appetite for the sanguine.”

Spike turned towards the man dangling from his left hand and shifted into his demon guise. “I am a little peckish, although my taste for British cuisine has declined over the years.” He yanked the man up against him and with a snarl, sank his fangs into the unfortunate soul’s jugular, taking deep pulls of his blood.

Methos stood a short distance away, watching with fascination as Spike drained the man who had tried to kill Rupert Giles. “Yeah, Mother would indeed be pissed if this joker was allowed to live…” he muttered to himself.

Spike ripped his fangs out of the drained body he was holding and with a casual twist of his hands, ripped the man’s head off. “There we go…,” he said with a grin. “Wanna play a little footie?” He tossed the head towards Methos who stepped out of its path.

“You are one sick individual. No wonder Mother put a blood bond on you.” Methos said and headed off towards the watcher’s flat, leaving a stunned Spike to follow him.

Joyce grabbed Dawn’s hand and pulled her towards the door, plucking her keys up off the counter as she did so. “Quiet Dawn. We have to go, NOW!” Joyce whispered urgently, motioning to Dawn that she should be silent.

Dawn, having been prepared to loudly complain at the brusque treatment, fell silent without uttering a sound at the look her mother’s face. She allowed herself to be led out of the house and back to the Jeep. As she climbed in and fastened her seatbelt, she noticed the worried look her mother was casting at the house. Looking in the same direction as her mother’s gaze, she noticed that the curtains in one of the upstairs windows moved slightly.

Joyce backed the Jeep out of the driveway, her eyes darting from the rearview mirror to the house in a constant flitting motion. As she pulled away from the house, she kept a sharp eye out for anyone following or watching them.

“Mom, what’s going on?” Dawn asked tremulously. “Why did we have to leave the house? I thought we were gonna have dinner?” She looked at her mother with a scared look in her eyes. “Was someone in the house? I saw the curtains move upstairs.”

Without looking at Dawn, Joyce shrugged and said, “I’ll explain when we get to Rupert’s place, so please be patient. Oh, and if you could keep an eye open to see if anyone is following us, I’d appreciate it.” Joyce fell silent, her hands gripping the wheel so tight that her knuckles turned white.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“If I don’t open the store Xander, how can I make money?” Anya complained as Xander drove them towards Giles’ apartment.

“Ahn, somehow I think being alive to open the store tomorrow, beats being dead today and being able to make money ever again.” Xander replied in an exasperated tone of voice.

Anya thought for a moment and then nodded vigorously, “You are right Xander. Drive faster; I do not want to die. Giles has to make them stop!” she ordered her boyfriend in a firm voice.

“Yes dear,” Xander said with a smile, which he was careful to keep hidden from his ever-so-practical girlfriend, not wanting to start an argument so early.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Hands clasped, the two Wiccan ladies walked across town towards Giles’ apartment, only the faint shimmering of the air around them indicating the shield spell they were maintaining around themselves.

“I hope Giles knows what’s going on,” Willow said in a thoughtful tone. “That guy was human.” She looked sheepishly at Tara. “If I hadn’t of knocked him out, we could have gotten some answers from him, maybe.”

“Sweetie, if you hadn’t of knocked him out, he might have shot either you or me, or maybe both of us.” Tara said soothingly.

“Well, he did have a gun, didn’t he…?” Willow said softly. “I just don’t like having to hurt people. Wish I knew why he attacked us.”

“I’m sure Giles will be able to help,” Tara said with a tender smile and a reassuring squeeze of her girlfriend’s hand. “He is quite knowledgeable about stuff like this.”

“Yeah, he is.” Willow said with a small giggle. “Maybe it’s because he’s old?” She paused in thought. “I wonder if the others are okay. Do you think whoever this is… that he had help?”

Tara looked up in alarm. “If he had help, do you think they went after Giles? Or even Mrs. Summers and Dawnie?”

Willow snorted. “I someone went after Dawn or Mrs. Summers, I hope their life insurance is paid up, because if Spike didn’t kill them, I’m positive Buffy would.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Whistler started to squirm frantically, trying to get someone’s attention, anyone’s attention, hoping he could at least tell his side of the story before judgment was passed on him. However, from the looks of annoyance he was receiving, it did not appear likely.

Buffy cast a quelling look in Whistler’s direction, causing him to cease his attempts to attract attention. She then turned her attention back towards Angel, who was now in the hands of a ceatric, and from the looks of things, fuming mad. She chuckled to herself, wondering if she could make him mad enough to say something stupid. With a wry grin, she realized that it would not be at all that hard, seeing as he had yet to say something that was not stupid since she had met him.

Deais, after seeing that the vampire was restrained, turned to Buffy and inquired, “Why was the Cursed One chained in the bathroom of your daughter’s home? Surely it wasn’t in response to what he did to make you stab him?”

“No, what he did to make me restrain him was much, much worse.” Buffy answered with a grimace.

Angel started straining against the hands that held him, but was unable to break free, so he resorted to yelling. “Don’t listen to her, she’s lying. I didn’t do anything!” After struggling a little more he growled, “I demand to be set free! I do not deserve this kind of treatment! I am the Chosen Champion for the Powers! LET ME GO!”

Buffy snorted inelegantly as she smirked at the struggling vampire. “Chosen Champion? I think not. That title is reserved for the Slayer, not for a soul-cursed vampire with delusions of grandeur. As for letting you go, I highly doubt that is going to happen.” Tapping her fingers on her chin, Buffy began to pace across the dais. “And as for what you did…” her voice trailed off as she turned to Deais. “How positive are you that he still is in possession of the soul?”

Deais stared at Angel for a moment, as if trying to see within him. “It appears that the soul is intact.” She turned her eyes on Buffy, “But I don’t see the significance of that fact.”

“The significance of that is,” Buffy paused and sighed softly, “Is the fact that he entered into a binding contract with the Wolf, the Ram and the Hart.” Several gasps were heard throughout the chamber as she said this.

Tannis looked between Angel and Buffy, noting the almost pained expression on Angel’s face. “What kind of contract?”

Angel started shouting again, “Don’t listen to her! She is a lying little bitch. She’s just trying to make you doubt me as your champion!” He struggled ineffectually against the ceatric’s hold.

Buffy slid two fingers into the top of her right boot, extracting a piece of parchment. “In case my word is not enough, I have proof of his perfidy, in his own hand, in his own blood.”

Everyone watched, as Angel seemed to go almost gray in shock as his eyes fell on the innocent-seeming piece of paper.

Spike stared after Methos, the words ‘blood bond’ ringing in his head, making him feel, in turns, elated, confused and profoundly perturbed. “Hey, wait a moment,” Spike chased after Methos, “What do you mean by ‘blood bond’?”

Methos paused, allowing Spike to catch up with him. “Well, it all depends on what she said, and what all was involved at the time she gave you her blood.” He lowered his head, and stared at the ground for a moment, before raising his eyes and locking gazes with Spike. “Also depends on if she tasted your blood.”

Spike, having caught up with Methos, stumbled over nothing as a vision of Buffy with his blood on her lips raced through his mind.

Methos chuckled and shook his head, “I’m gonna guess that she hasn’t done that… yet.”

“Ummm, no…” Spike mumbled and then gasped loudly as the final word reverberated in his brain. “What do you mean, ‘yet’?”

“We’ll get to that in a moment,” Methos said, still chuckling at the look on Spike’s face. “We need to get back to Mr. Giles’ place and make sure he’s okay. Besides, Joyce and Dawn should be there by the time we get back.” He raised a hand to halt Spike’s attempt at interrupting him, “I’ll try and explain everything then.” He glanced around. “You never know who might be listening, and Mother would have my head if I spilled family secrets in public.”

Spike nodded, also glancing around and extending his senses to try and detect any possible eavesdroppers. His head was still spinning from the implications of Buffy possibly biting him, and maybe even allowing him to bite her. He groaned softly as that image went straight to his groin.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Giles stepped out of the bathroom, rubbing his hair dry with a towel. “Those buggers didn’t even pick up before they left,” he grumbled. Tossing the towel back into the bathroom, he went around his living room, picking up the empty glasses and placing them in sink. He looked up as his door slammed open and flustered Dawn raced in, followed by a worried-looking Joyce.

“Lock the door, bolt the windows, and hide under the beds!” Dawn screeched as she raced into the bathroom and slammed the door, only to fling it open 10 seconds later and storm out. “It stinks in there!”

Giles just stood there, a puzzled expression on his face. “What in hell is going on?”

Joyce closed the door behind her and leaned against it. “Are you okay?”

Giles smiled at Joyce, “Why wouldn’t I be?” He vowed to keep the council’s attack from her. “What is up with Dawn?”

“Don’t lie to me Rupert. Methos called and told me something happened and then…” Joyce started to say but was interrupted by Dawn.

“Uncle Methos told me and mom to leave the house, fast. I think I saw someone in the upstairs window as we left the driveway.” Dawn said, looking worried. “Do you think we were being robbed?”

Giles sighed and rubbed the bridge of his nose. “Since Methos spilled the beans I suppose I shall inform you of the predicament we seem to find ourselves in. Please, sit down my dears.” He motioned towards to couch. Just as he was about to ensconce himself in his chair, the door flew open again, this time revealing a flustered Xander, an annoyed Anya and the Wiccans looking concerned. Giles held up a hand, forestalling the outburst he was sure was forthcoming from the four young people. “I suggest you all have a seat, and I will attempt to answer your questions after I reveal some disturbing news.”

“As disturbing as not being able to open the store and lose money? Nothing could be more disturbing!” Anya exclaimed as she flounced over to a chair and sat down.

Xander sat down beside Anya and patted her on the shoulder, “Remember what we talked about in the car? There are worse things.”

Willow and Tara seated themselves side-by-side on the floor, never once letting go of each other’s hands. “Does this have to do with the guy who jumped us at the dorms?” Willow asked.

Xander glanced over at Willow, “You guys got one too? He burst into our apartment this morning. Anya hit him over the head with the waffle iron.”

Dawn bounced in her seat, “I think we had someone in our house, but Uncle Methos warned us to get out before anything could happen.”

“Yes, well, if you would allow me to interject a few words, I can give you the information I have and perhaps explain what we might do…” Giles started to say but was interrupted as the door was flung open once more, revealing two bickering males.

“Hey, Rupes. I see the gang’s all here. So are we explaining what’s up, or are we sitting around staring at each other all night?” Spike quipped as he flung himself into the other armchair.

“If you people would quit interrupting me, I might actually be able to complete a sentence, let alone a singular thought.” Giles said with some exasperation.

“By all means, continue.” Spike said with a grin. “Preferably before we all die of old age… including myself.”

Methos laughed as he settled into a chair by the dining table. “If you think you have problems Spike. I’m older than you and I might not live to see him finish a thought.”

“Let him talk so we can find out what’s going on,” Joyce admonished the snickering immortals.

“Thank you my dear,” Giles said as everyone became quiet. “Earlier tonight, when Methos and I arrived here, there was someone lying in wait within my apartment. This individual had in his possession a firearm, which has since been disposed of.” He took his glasses off and polished them. “Methos insisted on entering first, and was shot for his efforts.”

Spike piped up, “Don’t forget the wanker I ran into down in the sewers Rupes.”

“Indeed.” Giles nodded at Spike. “It appeared as though the Council sent a couple of gunmen to Sunnydale to remove me.”

“From what the one in the sewers said, they wanted the Watcher dead because he hasn’t killed me, despite council orders to ‘do away with me’.” Spike said with a smirk on face.

Xander gaped in shock, “You mean they wanted you to kill Spike? Even though he’s been helping us keep the Hellmouth from going kaplooey?”

“They have been requesting that I ‘dispense’ of Spike, in order to prove myself useful to their organization. I have, of course, refused. Citing the many times Spike has aided not only myself, but other members of the human race as well. It did not seem to make an impression on their attitudes.” Giles stated with some exasperation.

“Spike and I took it upon ourselves to remove Mr. Giles’ unwanted guest. While we were doing so, I thought that maybe Joyce and Dawn may be in danger as well, based on their close acquaintance with both Spike and Mr. Giles.” Methos stated quietly. “I called to warn them, and had them come here where we could protect them and I was planning on checking out the house and making sure it is clear come morning.”

Anya grumbled, “Some man with a gun broke into our apartment this morning. I thought he was going to kill us. Being dead is not good for money or for orgasms, unless you are a vampire.”

“Anya conked him with the waffle iron, dunno if he’s dead or just unconscious.” Xander rubbed Anya’s arm lovingly. “My lady has a wicked backswing.”

“A guy with a gun climbed through Tara and my dorm window this morning.” Willow said quietly. “I used magic to knock him out.” She glanced guiltily at Giles. “We came here hoping you could help us.

“Looks like it’s not just you the Council of those who Wank is looking to off Rupes.” Spike said with a frown. “Looks to me like they are after everyone even remotely close to you.”

Joyce frowned, “Mother is not going to like this. Not at all.”

Methos nodded in agreement. “Honestly, I believe she’s gonna kick Council ass.”

For the first time since he had been brought into the room, Angel fell silent, his mind racing. ‘How am I going to talk my way out of this?’ he asked himself.

Buffy smirked as she prowled over to Angel. “Not gonna rant and rave, and call me a liar? Maybe yell that this is a fake?” She laughed at loud as Angel’s face fell.

‘Damnit, how did she know what I was going to say?’ Angel wondered.

“Might we see the parchment?” Tannic asked, stepping closer to Buffy.

“In due time, Tannic.” Buffy said, walking back up onto the dais. “Let me tell you how I came by this little piece of paper first.” Buffy unsheathed her sword in one fluid motion, chuckling as everyone took at least one step back. Placing the point of the sword on the floor, she seated herself, keeping one hand on the sword hilt. With a faraway look on her, one that gave the impression that she was not paying attention to her surroundings, Buffy began her tale.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

“So what are you going to do so I can get back to the store and make lots of money?” Anya asked with a frown.

“Ahn,” Xander began, only to be interrupted by Spike.

“Listen Demon Girl, I’ll go check it out later so you can open the store tomorrow. For now I think we need to figure out how to let Buffy know what’s going on.” Spike turned to Methos. “Any clue as to where she’s at mate?”

Willow fairly bounced in her seat. “OH! I know! How about a locator spell? I could…”

Methos shook his head. “I don’t think that would work. If she was within a 200 mile radius I would be able to sense her, and I can’t. I’m assuming since whoever took what’s his face, did it without any of us being aware…” He trailed off and sighed. “I think she’s left this plane of existence.”

Anya blinked once and then grinned mischievously. “You mean she’s gone to confront the Powers themselves, don’t you?”

Methos nodded, “Yeah, I wouldn’t be surprised if she confronted them at sword point, she was that irate.”

Giles blinked a couple of times in confusion and then yanked his glasses from his face, and began to furiously polish the lenses. “You can not mean that she has somehow entered the realm of the Powers? I do not believe such a thing is possible.” He glared at Methos, wondering why the man was saying such outrageous lies.

Methos laughed at the look of confusion and outrage on Giles’ face. “Mother is capable of many things, Mr. Giles. The least of which is having access to the realm of those you call the ‘Powers’. She tends to liken them to spoilt children in need of a spanking.” He shook his head, “You really have no idea what she is capable of do you?”

“Well, I do know the legends surrounding both her and that sword of hers. But it has been my experience that most legends are, shall we say, exaggerated quite a lot.” Giles said with a condescending smile.

Joyce reached over and slapped Giles on the back of the head. “Loose the look Rupert. I can tell you right now, the legends surrounding Mother are, in the most part, accurate. And most of them are actually toned down.” She shared a glance with Methos. “After all, it wouldn’t do to scare people too much now would it?”

“Oh I don’t know about that baby sister. After all, she really enjoyed scaring the crap out of those roman soldiers.” Methos said with a chuckle. “But you are right; history pegs that one as a plague of some kind.”

Tara looked at Methos with more than a little curiosity. “Are you talking about the deaths of the 5th Legion? I thought it was proven to be a plague that drove them all into a murderous rage?” She turned to the rest of the room. “We discussed it in my last Ancient History class. It was rather, gruesome. The way the bodies were found, most with their throats cut.”

Xander paled and rubbed the back of his neck while looking at the floor. “You mean…” he swallowed hard, “she had something to do with that? And I made her mad…” He trailed off, looking as if he was about to pass out.

Methos looked at Xander, speculation in his eyes. “You made her mad? And you are still walking and talking and in possession of your head?” He leaned forward. “What did you do, and why didn’t she kill you?”

Dawn bounced up and down in her seat. “He was ranting about Buffy being evil and generally being an idiot. Then he shoved me… twice. Buffy put her sword to his throat and said something like ‘If I was evil you’d be dead’. I thought Xander was gonna pee his pants!”

Xander looked up sheepishly. “I almost did…”

Methos leaned back in his chair and laughed so hard he almost sent the chair over backwards. After a few moments he gathered himself together and cleared his throat. “Right, where were we?”

“We were looking for a way to let Buffy know what has been happening.” Willow said quietly.

Methos nodded. “Okay, since she has more than likely left this plane, I think it’s up to Spike to try and contact her.”

Giles raised one eyebrow. “Why do you think that Spike would be able to contact her, rather than one of us? Or even yourself?”

“Because she has a blood bond with Spike, and given his supernatural nature, he should be able to use the link to contact her.” Methos said in a matter of fact tone of voice.

Almost as one, everyone, except Spike and Methos, gasped in astonishment and turned accusing eyes to Spike.

*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Buffy finished her tale with when they discovered Angel missing from his confinement. Her eyes lost the faraway look they had, and focused with deadly intent on Whistler. “I want to hear from the messenger’s own lips his reasoning behind the removal of the Cursed One from his rightful bonds.”

At a nod from Deais, the ceatric removed its hand from Whistler’s mouth. “Speak messenger, hold nothing back, and tell nothing but the truth.”

Whistler nodded and cleared his throat. “I generally keep one ear open in case An---, err the Cursed One has any important questions that may need answers from you. Not that I would bring petty questions and complaints to your ears unless it was of world-ending importance.” He took a deep breath and continued. “He called me, said he was in trouble that might result in the destruction of the world and requested that I release him from his bonds, and bring him here so he could present his questions and concerns to the Oracles.”

Buffy leaned forward, her eyes boring into his, “Did he say nothing to you of what the nature of the trouble was?”

“Not as such, Milady. Simply that he needed information on the creature”, and here Whistler winced, “that had managed to subdue him and tie him up.”

“I see, and instead of requesting instructions, you simply freed him and brought him here.” Buffy nodded slowly. “Did he say nothing of what prompted this ‘creature’,” and here she smirked, “to place him in bonds?”

“No Milady. I did ask, but he told me that the information was for the Oracles and the Powers. Not for messengers.” Whistler answered.

Tannic looked at Buffy. “Do you think he was trying to escape punishment?”

“Oh there is no doubt in my mind that he was trying. And failed.” Buffy said in a hard tone. “I think it’s time that the words on this parchment were known.” She motioned to the ceatric holding Whistler, which promptly released him. “Come here messenger, and read the words written herein, aloud.”

Whistler scurried over to where Buffy was seated, and bowed low, taking the parchment from her hand. Clearing his throat, he began to read aloud – “Let it be known that on this day, I, Hank Summers, do hereby turn over all rights and privileges towards my flesh and blood daughter, known as Dawn Summers, to one Angelus, known as Angel, with one proviso. This proviso is as follows.” Whistler paused and swallowed hard, his face going white, before continuing. “Angelus must, on the night of the full moon, in full view of myself and the others gathered, forcefully and completely rend my aforementioned daughters virginity in all aspects.” He once more paused as an outraged murmur rose from the assembled powers. “Signed this day, Hank Summers.” He swallowed once more and said, “This also bears the Cursed One’s mark, as well as the signature of one Hammond, witness for the Wolf, Ram and Heart.”
Buffy motioned to a pale, slender figure that was hanging on the outskirts of the assembled powers. “Vareas, come here please. I have need of your special services.”

Vareas glided forward, the smile on her lips revealing her dainty fangs. “What service would you have of me Milady?”

“I require you to confirm that it is indeed the blood of the Cursed One that is upon the parchment Whistler is holding.” Buffy said and motioned to Whistler to hand the parchment to Vareas.

Instead of taking the paper from him, Vareas simply leaned over and took a long sniff, and then darted her tongue out to trace Angelus’ signature on the parchment. Having done so, she turned to Angel, and motioning to the ceatric to hold his head steady, she glided over to him and took a sniff of his neck. “Smells the same Milady.” Baring her fangs, she sunk them into Angel’s neck and took a long pull of his blood. Pulling back she grimaced in distaste. “Tastes the same as well. It is my considered impartial observation that it is one and the same. The Cursed One is guilty of entering into this abysmal contract.”

Buffy nodded, “Thank you Vareas, I appreciate your assistance in this matter.” Turning to the rest of the assemblage she said, “I believe the time has come to render both judgment and punishment upon the messenger and the Cursed One.”

There were murmurs of agreement and nods of assent from everyone assembled in the room.

“What?” Spike said, shifting nervously beneath the glares tossed his way.

“You BIT her?” Xander ground out, outraged.

“No, I didn’t bite her.” Spike stated glaring back at the boy.

“Then what’s with him saying you have a blood bond with her?” Xander stood up, his hands clenched into fists at his side.

“Doesn’t bloody well mean I bit her!” Spike stood up and shouted in Xander’s face.

Methos jumped to his feet and pulled Spike away from Xander, and then shoved Xander back into his seat. “Enough children.” He shook his head and ran a hand through his hair. “No, Spike did not bite her. “

“Then where did the blood bond come from Methos?” Joyce asked, clearly puzzled.

Spike muttered something under his breath, causing Giles to raise one eyebrow in his direction. “Care to speak up and share with the rest of us?”

“I said,” Spike began, “that even if I had bitten her, it wouldn’t be any business of yours.” He grumbled softly.

Xander made as if to speak, but found his mouth covered by Anya’s hand. “Don’t say a word. You won’t like the response.” Anya said quietly.

Methos began pacing back and forth, his hands clasped behind his back. “From what Spike has told me, Mother fed him her blood just before the fight the other night.”

Spike nodded. “She sliced her finger, and rubbed the blood on my lips, then told me to lick it off.”

“Did she say anything?” Anya inquired.

“She mumbled something under her breath; I didn’t quite catch what it was though.” Spike said and rubbed the back of his neck. “She told me…” and he closed his eyes in thought, “that they couldn’t kill me by normal means, not while she is alive.” He opened his eyes and looked around the room.

Methos blinked once, and shook his head. “Damn, she must really be serious about this then”, he muttered to himself.

Joyce caught Methos’ eye and said quietly, “Do you really think so?” There was a note of hope in her voice.

Methos nodded. “Yes, I do. And it’s about time too.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Buffy motioned to Whistler, “On your knees messenger.”

Whistler dropped to his knees, his eyes fixed on the floor in front of him. “My life, my soul, my very existence is in your hands, Milady.”

“It is, isn’t it?” Buffy said with a cold grin. She thought for a moment, and then asked, “Tannic, how long has this one been a messenger?”

“A little over 300 years Milady.” Tannic replied.

“And has he ever failed in his responsibilities before this?” Buffy asked.

“No Milady, he has not.” Tannic replied.

“Then perhaps the failure lies not with the messenger, but with the one who oversees his duties. I believe that to be you, is it not Tannic?” Buffy asked, almost rhetorically.

“Yes Milady, it is.” Tannic swallowed hard, wondering if he was going to be next on the block.

“Then I believe we shall relieve you of the burden of overseeing the messenger, and pass him on to someone who is less prone to, shall we say, following their own agenda.” Buffy said with a wry grin. “Vareas, approach please.”

The slender vampiress approached and bowed her head to Buffy, “I am at your service Milady.”

“It is our will that you take over as the overseer of this messenger. He will be in your charge for the next 300 years. See that he learns what it appears he has failed to learn.” Buffy said.

“Of course, it will be my pleasure.” Vareas purred, and placed a hand on the back of Whistler’s neck. “Come. You will follow me.”

Whistler rose to his feet, keeping his eyes lowered, and bowed once to Buffy. He then turned and followed Vareas to the side of the dais where they would witness the punishment of the Cursed One.


~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Would the two of you care to fill us in? Or is it some sort of family secret?” Giles asked with a hint of exasperation in his voice.

“Not so much a secret, as a hope we have had for a long time,” Joyce said with a sad smile.

Spike snapped his fingers in an attempt to gain their attention. “Oi, back on topic here people.” He looked over to Methos and said “How do I go about this whole thing anyway?”

Methos rubbed the back of his neck and sighed, “Well, I think first you should just try and see if you can feel any type of connection to her, think of her, picture her in your mind.” He shrugged. “If you can’t feel her, then there is no way you can communicate with her.”

“So, he just, what? Closes his eyes and pictures her in his head?” Xander asked. “How do we know he won’t go all pervy on us and imagine her naked?”

“The way in which he chooses to picture her, in order to feel the bond, is up to him Mr. Harris.” Methos said with a trace of impatience.

“Do be quiet Xander, so Spike can concentrate. Buffy really needs to get this information.” Anya said in a loud hiss. “She needs to get back here and kick council ass so I can make money and have more orgasms.” She nodded her head decisively.

Methos chuckled. “Indeed Anya, indeed. Life can be so boring without either of those.”

Spike settled himself comfortably into his chair and closed his eyes. He began by shutting out the sounds the people around him were making. Tuning out the conversations, the sounds of their breathing, even the sounds of their heartbeats, he concentrated on Buffy instead of those he considered his responsibility. He was counting on Methos to protect them while he turned his attention elsewhere. An image began to form in his mind, and he smiled to himself. Buffy, spread out on his bed as she had been after their shower the night before. He called her name in his mind, whispering it softly, like a lover’s caress. He continued to call her name, hoping he could reach her.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Buffy’s head snapped up, her eyes taking on a far-away look, and her lips thinned. “Lets get this over with, I have places to be.”

Deais looked over at Buffy with a questioning look on her face. “Is there a problem Milady,” she asked.

“Not so much a problem, as an annoyance,” Buffy replied distractedly as she concentrated on the images she was picking up from Spike. Buffy’s mind raced as she contemplated this turn of events. Shaking herself back the issue at hand, she grinned mischievously at Angel. “Now what shall I do with you? Hmmm?”

Angel started to grin back, thinking that this whole thing was her way of catching his attention and flirting with him, when he noticed her pick up her sword. He winced in remembered pain as he recalled the ease with which it slid into his flesh two nights before.

“I had thought of simply ending your existence, ensuring that any threat you might be is removed. “ She snickered as four members of the assemblage started forward, their brows wrinkled in consternation. “However, you might still be of some use in the future, so killing you is out of the question.” She laughed in genuine amusement at the look of relief that passed across Angel’s face. “That doesn’t mean that I can’t have a little fun, and keep that promise I made to you the first night we met. Before I am done, you will know the true meaning of pain.”

Angel swallowed hard, a hint of fear flickering in his eyes before a look of utter boredom and complete arrogance settled over his features. “Well, then. Let’s get this over with, I’m getting bored,” he said giving off a vibe of condescending superiority.

Tannic gave a low laugh and shook a finger admonishingly at Angel. “I can promise you, that you won’t be bored for long.” He snickered in genuine amusement. “The Lady knows how to keep things interesting.” He turned to Buffy with one raised eyebrow, “I know I’ve been an ass about things, especially where this one is concerned, “ he jerked a thumb over his shoulder at Angel, “but after spending even a small amount of time in his presence, even I want to strangle the condescending bastard.”

Buffy gave a low, throaty laugh. “From what I’ve been given to understand, he tends to turn people against him with his attitude. One would think he’d learn from his past mistakes, but it is apparent to me that he requires a firm hand instead of gentle guidance.” Buffy paced the dais, deep in thought, as she debated on what to do with the idiot vampire who had dared to try and hurt her family. Coming up with nothing that seemed appropriate, she reached out, via the bond, to Spike, to see if he had any ideas.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Spike’s eyes popped open, a look of sheer astonishment on his face. “Well I’ll be damned…” he muttered to himself, “it worked.”
Methos cocked his head towards Spike. “You managed to reach her then?”

Spike nodded in a distracted manner. “Yeah… this is neat.” He slouched back in his chair, touching the fragile thread linking his mind to hers.

“So is she okay? When is she coming home? Can you tell me…?” Dawn started bouncing in her seat.

“Oi! Hold up there Nibblet. I ain’t a bleeding cell phone!” Spike stated, with a faint grin on his face for the girl’s antics.

“Sorry Spike, I just miss her, ya know?” Dawn said, a little subdued.

Spike shook his head and laughed, and then a puzzled look drifted across his face. “Hey, she wants to know if we have any ideas as to what we can do with Angel, short of killing him.” He cocked an eyebrow as Xander slapped himself on the forehead. “What’s that for Harris?”

“I guess it was too much to hope for that she’d just put him out of our misery huh?” Xander said with a groan.

Methos thought for a moment, “It is possible that she isn’t being allowed to dispose of him permanently. If that’s the case, I do have a suggestion for her.” He looked over at Spike, “Tell her ‘Kronos’. She’ll understand.”

“Okay, I’ll see if I can get that to her. She seems better at this than I am.” Spike said as he closed his eyes, and then popped them open again. “Oh, and you will be explaining this ‘Kronos’ thing to me.” He closed his eyes again, not seeing the look of resigned acceptance on Methos’ face.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Buffy laughed out loud as the word ‘Kronos’ danced through her mind. “Wonder how the bugger knows about that…” she mused. “Looks like the old man has some explaining to do.” She turned back towards Angel and clapped her hands like an excited little girl. “I have just the thing. It has proved effective on another occasion, with one such as you. So I don’t see why it shouldn’t be as effective on you.”

Deais noticed the wicked smile on Buffy’s face and inquired, “I trust this punishment you have devised will not result in the Cursed One’s demise?”

“No, it won’t kill him, well… not if I make a few adjustments. But he will beg for death before it’s over. That I can promise you.” Buffy stated with an evil-sounding chuckle. “Gods know it had Kronos begging for death.”

Deais tapped her right index finger against her chin, “Kronos… wasn’t he one of your students at one point?”

Buffy nodded. “Yup!” she said with pride. “He was one of mine. A talented, if headstrong, young man. Unfortunately he had some rather unsavory appetites that needed curbing.” She grimaced in remembrance. “I believe the method I used on him, albeit slightly modified, will be sufficient to punish this idiot vampire.” She motioned towards Angel. “It took 6 weeks before Kronos was begging me to finish him off; I expect it won’t take more than 6 days for this piece of garbage to start begging. But his punishment won’t stop until I am satisfied that he has learned his lesson.”

An older gentleman, holding a staff topped with a gleaming star that pulsed in time to his heartbeat, inquired, “What exactly shall be done with him?”

Buffy smiled at the elder male and replied, “It is a little something I came up with a little over 5000 years ago. I guarantee it is something the Cursed One will never forget.”

Spike opened his eyes and groaned. “All this head-talking is giving me a headache.” He brought one hand up and ran it across his face. “Okay kids, what’s next on the agenda?”

Giles cleared his throat and addressed Spike, “Did you manage to convey to her the particulars about our current predicament?”

Spike cocked his head to one side and blinked slowly at Giles. “I do believe she is aware of the situation.” He paused and chuckled softly. “If I was getting things right, she’s more amused than concerned about it.”

“Amused?” Willow gasped in outrage. “There are people running around trying to kill us, and she finds it funny?”

Methos placed a calming hand on Willow’s shoulder. “Easy there firecracker. I’m sure it wasn’t meant the way it sounds.” He turned towards Spike and said, “It wasn’t the way it sounds, right?”

“Nah, I think she was laughing at the council, not the situation,” Spike said with a sheepish look on his face. “She was amused, but not at our expense. That much I can say with certainty.” He looked over at Joyce and Dawn, “I did get the impression that she’s going to be coming back right quick, though.” He scratched his left eyebrow with one finger, “At least that’s what I think she was trying to say.”

Anya peered around the room and then asked on a loud voice, “Can we go home yet? I want some orgasms from my Xander before I go to sleep.”

Before anyone else could say anything, Methos looked at her and shook his head. “Sorry Anyanka, but I think its best if we stay together, less chance of the council catching us vulnerable.”

Giles nodded his head in agreement. “Indeed. Safety in numbers and all that. However, I do believe that my flat is a little small for all of us to reside in for any length of time.”

“Why don’t we return to the house? If we all go together we should be safe, and Methos can check out the house to make sure nobody is in there.” Joyce said with a gentle smile that belied her stubborn mindset.

Spike nodded, “Brilliant idea Joyce, let the old man get shot at.”

Methos flashed an annoyed glance at Spike. “I’ve already been shot at tonight, you idiot, and it isn’t exactly a pleasant sensation.”

Spike simply shrugged, “Duck next time?” He stood up and headed for the door. “Right then, Red, Glinda, you two go with Xander and Anya, head for the house, but stay in the car until you get the all clear from Methos. Giles, you and Methos go with Joyce and Dawn. Same thing Rupes. Keep the girls in the car until the old man says its okay.”
“And where will you be going Spike?” Xander asked with an exasperated expression on his face.

“I am going to go talk to a few friends of mind, see if I can get the low down on any newcomers to town, especially those that sound like ol Rupes here.” Spike said with a wicked grin on his face. “Then I thought I’d swing by and pick up some grub from Cho’s.”

Dawn pumped one fist in the air, “YES!” She stood up and darted to the door, “What are you all waiting for people, lets MOVE, before Spike changes his mind about the food!”

On the way out the door, Spike snagged Methos’ arm, “When I get back to the house, you will explain this whole ‘Kronos’ bit, won’t you?”

Methos sighed and adopted a put-upon expression. “If I absolutely must.”

Giles slapped him on the back as he walked past. “You must.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Now, I shall need a proper venue, someplace where the sun shines, but isn’t fatal to vampires.” Buffy said, tapping a finger against her chin.

“How about Pylea?” Tannic asked. “The sun there isn’t fatal to them.”

“But Pylea is under the control of the Wolf, the Ram and the Hart. Who is to say that they wouldn’t try to interfere?” Deais said with a shake of her head.

Buffy grin, “Oh I don’t think they’ll be interfering in this. They practically begged me to take him off their hands. However, the place I am thinking of should also be desert-like, with insanely high temperatures during the day, and freezing cold at night.”

“We could use the Chamber of Fulfillment to provide the exact environment you desire. We often use it when needing a specific location to talk to someone outside their own reality.” Tannic looked at the old man with the staff. “Do you think you and your apprentice could help the Lady come up with something suitable?”

“Of course.” The old man smiled. “We are delighted to serve.” He waited patiently for Buffy to join him before he began walking towards a black door on the far side of the room. “This will be a unique learning experience for my young apprentice. She has only recently come under my tutelage.”

“As I recall Mordecai, your teachings are quite comprehensive.” Buffy said with a smile, motioning for the ceatric holding Angel to follow them. “Have I met your apprentice before?”
“I do not believe so.” Mordecai said with twinkle in his eyes. “She is quite young. I believe she had just finished her secondary schooling when she was brought to me by the twins.”

“I look forward to meeting her.” Buffy said with a smile. “I’m sure we can work well together.”

As they approached the door, a young brunette of average height raised dancing hazel eyes to Mordecai and grinned. “Do we get to play with the Cursed One, Master?”

“Indeed we do Irnhe.” Mordecai turned to Buffy and said, “My Lady may I present my apprentice Irnhe.” Turning back to the girl he spoke in a sharp tone, “Show your respect to the Lady, child.”

Irnhe bowed smiled softly and curtsied to Buffy. “It is an honor to meet you my Lady. How may I serve?”

Buffy explained her requirements and waited while Irnhe placed one hand on the door. Turning to Mordecai, she commented on how polite his apprentice was.

“Thank you Lady, I wish I could take the credit for that, but she came to me with the politeness instilled in her. Most likely her parents doing.” Mordecai shrugged in self-depreciation.

“I believe a facsimile of the Gobi Desert will be sufficient, with the minor adjustment of the non-lethal sun.” Irnhe turned to Buffy with a smile. “Shall I enter first?”

Buffy smiled gently at the young girl. “Let’s enter together and see what you have created for our amusement this day.” As one, the two girls pulled open the door and entered into the darkness beyond.

“Figures, they leave me to deal with the Cursed One.” Mordecai waved his staff at Angel; motioning for the ceatric to release him, and then proceeded to walk through the doorway himself, the binding he had placed on Angel forcing the vampire to follow him into the unknown.

Buffy looked around in amused amazement. “If I didn’t know better, I would swear we were actually in the desert.”

“The Chamber provides all that is needed.” Irnhe said with a self-depreciating smile. “Will this suffice for your needs?”

“Perhaps the addition of a large tree, with but a few branches, seemingly dead, but stronger than spelled iron.” Buffy said thoughtfully. “After all, we will need somewhere to tie the vampire while we work.”

Irnhe nodded and closed her eyes in concentration. In front of them, a large tree-like object shimmered into existence. “Is this what you had in mind?”

Buffy nodded, impressed with what she saw. “Did the room pluck the image from my mind? Because this is identical to the tree I tied Kronos to.”

“Nobody knows how the room works, my Lady. It is quite possible that it did read your mind.” Mordecai said as he approached them, the bound vampire following him.

Angel stared around in amazement. The sun was shining down on him and it was not hurting him. He glanced over at Buffy and smiled. “I thought this was to be a punishment? I don’t see how me standing in the sun can be anything but a reward.” He said with a condescending smirk on his face.

Buffy merely smiled and shook her head before turning back to Irnhe. “Looks like we have the venue. First thing we need to do is bind the vampire to the tree.”

“Might I suggest using this rope? It has been soaked in holy water for months.” Mordecai shrugged. “Never know when one might need it.”

“Always prepared for the unexpected. Some things never change Mordecai.” Buffy said with a laugh.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Methos reminded Joyce, Dawn and Giles to remain in the Jeep while he checked out the house. As he left the vehicle, Xander pulled in to the driveway behind him. “Stay put. I’m going to check things out.” Thus said, he headed into the house via the front door. As he entered the house, he drew his sword from beneath his coat, and took a deep breath. “Here’s hoping the idiot left before we returned…” he muttered to himself as he carefully bolted the front door. He checked out the living room first, making sure that all the curtains were wide open, leaving no place for anyone to hide.

“How long is this going to take?” Xander complained, drumming his fingers on the steering wheel. “Cant he just yell at whoever might be in there, that if they don’t leave, he’s going to kill them?”

Anya smacked Xander on the back of the head. “You have been spending too much time with Spike. Methos will check every room, every closet, and every possible hiding place, from the attic to the basement. He is very thorough,” she said with a fond smile.

Willow whispered in Tara’s ear, “Why do I get the feeling that she’s talking about more than his searching skills.”

Tara put a hand over her mouth and giggled, but did not say anything.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Across town in Willy’s bar, Spike was asking questions and spreading the news about a possible council wet works unit in town. Willy promised to pass on any information that he picked up and Spike left the bar. As he walked towards Cho’s, he started making a mental list of what he should get, the realized that he did not know the old man’s preferences. Shaking his head and laughing softly to himself, he entered the restaurant and snuck up on a tiny young lady. Wrapping his arms around her waist he picked her up and spun around, causing the girl to squeal in shocked delight.

“Mr. Spike! I have been missing you.” The girl said with a smile as he put her down and she turned towards him. “Grandfather will be so pleased that you are here.”

“Don’t have time for much of a chat little Jade, I’m just here to…” he trailed off as a wizened old man came out of the kitchen.

“You are here to pick up huge order. Food for multitudes!” The old man said with a toothless grin.

“That’s right Cho, food for the masses.” He grinned. “And one of these days I’m going to figure out how you do that.”

“Now is not the time for you to be prying into secrets. Now is the time for you to be taking the good food we make and feed those in your care.” Cho nodded and motioned towards the two large boxes sitting against the wall. “Your order is ready, and you owe naught.” He slapped Spike’s hand when it reached to pay for the food.

“Cho, you are going to go broke if you keep this up.” Spike said with some exasperation.

“You want make payment? Fine. You and your young lady come to Jade’s wedding in 3 months time. That is payment I ask you to make.” Cho nodded once and turned back to the kitchen. “Now go, before food becomes as ice.”

Spike turned to Jade, “One of these days…” He trailed off as Jade started to laugh.

“You say that every time, and every time you leave with a smile on your face. Now go, my Neil is waiting to drive you home with the food.” Jade made a shooing motion towards the door. “GO!”

Spike bowed low and laughed. “Yes Madame Jade. Your orders are music to my ears.” He picked up the boxes easily and left the restaurant.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Back at the house, Methos had finished checking all the rooms, including the attic and the basement, and had found nothing out of the ordinary. There was nobody hiding in the house. He went outside, told everyone that the coast was clear, and told them to get their arses in the house.

“You know, if it wasn’t for the fact that you could quite possibly kill me without blinking an eye, I would take umbrage at being treated like a child.” Giles huffed as he passed Methos.

“Rupert, can I help it that you are all children in my eyes?” Methos asked with a laugh.

Joyce swatted Methos on the arm. “Quit baiting the man, Methos. You are being rude.”

Methos swept an old-fashioned bow to Joyce. “Of course sister mine. Your wish is my command.”

Their bantering was interrupted by Xander loudly asking what was taking Spike so long with the food.

Joyce laughed and closed the door, motioning to Dawn to come help her fetch some plates and flatware in preparation for the arrival of the food.

“Did anyone realize that Spike never asked us what we wanted to eat?” Methos asked Giles quietly.

“He went to Cho’s” was Giles response and when Methos looked at him with a quizzical expression he clarified, “Cho always gives Spike exactly what everyone wants. Do not ask, because I’m not sure how he does it, but Cho is never wrong.”

“I see. I guess I’ll have to take your word for it.” Methos said with a small frown.

Xander slapped Methos on the back as he passed him. “Smile! We are gonna have a feast provided by the wizard of Chinese food.” Xander rubbed his hands together. “I can hardly wait!”

Dawn suddenly appeared in the hallway, making a mad dash for the door. Methos immediately went on alert and started towards the kitchen, which was were Dawn had been. He abruptly clapped both hands over his ears as Dawn started bouncing and squealing in what appeared to be delight. The reason for her actions was soon apparent as she flung open the door to reveal a box-ladened Spike.

Xander rushed over to the door and took the topmost box from Spike. “Its about time you got here fang face, I’m starved.”

“Harris, you are always starving. Nothing new there.” Spike said as he entered the house and kicked the door shut behind him. “Oi Rupes! Willy said he’ll keep his eyes and ears open and let us know if anything suspicious comes up.”

“Wonderful.” Giles said with a wry grimace. “A seedy bartender as our means of information.” Shaking his head, he started towards the dining room.

Spike and Methos shared a glance and retorted, as one, “Bartenders can be a damned good source of information.” They both cracked up laughing at the look of indignation on Giles’ face.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

With a smirk on her face that eerily reminded Angel of Spike, Buffy grabbed him and shoved him against the tree. “Firstly, we must secure the target,” she said in a conversational tone to Irnhe. Taking the rope from Mordecai, she proceeded to bind Angel’s wrists to the two horizontal branches just above his head, as far apart as possible. She then secured his ankles to two large roots that curled up out of the ground, just over shoulder-width apart.

Irnhe watched Buffy tie the vampire up, the expression on her face was one of studious concentration. “Will the rope be able to withstand his vampiric strength?” she queried.

Buffy shot her a look of exasperation, but it was Mordecai who answered. “The vampire will not be able to break this rope; it was spelled to be able to restrain titans. It will withstand his best efforts.” He raised one hand to forestall the question he could see brimming on Irnhe’s lips. “The tree as well, being a construct of the Chamber, is created to withstand any amount of pressure the vampire can bring to bear.”

Buffy rose to her feet and smirked at Angel. “Feeling comfortable I trust?”

Angel adopted what he thought was a bored look, but was in reality a constipated expression. “I’ve been in worse circumstances. And I really do need to thank you for the vampire-friendly sunshine, it’s quite… stimulating.”

Buffy laughed and shook her head. “Trust a vampire to find something positive about this whole situation.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Everyone gathered in the dining room and filled their plates with the delicious food Cho had provided them. As they sat and began to eat, Giles posed a question. “So, what is the mystery surrounding the word Kronos?”

Willow and Tara shared a look and giggled. “Wasn’t he the father of the Greek god Zeus,” Willow inquired.

“Wrong spelling,” Methos muttered around a mouthful of almond gai ding. “That’s with a CH; the other is with a K… 2 totally different people…” He swallowed and continued, “Kronos was one of the original 4 horsemen, and Mother’s student.” He paused to pluck a chicken ball from his plate and chewed on it thoughtfully. “In some ways, the vampire; what is his name anyway?”

“Name’s Angelus. He’s m’grandsire and a right wanker.” Spike said as he munched happily on some spicy ginger beef.

Methos nodded in thanks to Spike. “As I was saying, in some ways Angelus reminds me of Kronos. They have the same arrogance and inflated sense of self-importance. And apparently the same taste in diversions.”

“Why was ‘Kronos’ your response to Buffy’s request for punishment ideas?” Harris asked as he shoved a forkful of chow mien into his mouth.

“Buffy caught Kronos in the act… with a 10 year old girl.” Methos said with a look of disgust on his face. “She had warned him previously about his predilections, but he apparently thought he could do as he wanted, as long as she didn’t catch him.” Methos shook his head as he munched thoughtfully on a spring roll. “She punished him in a rather… unique way. One that had lasting consequences for Kronos.”

“How exactly did she punish him,” Giles asked with a look of intense interest on his face.

“Well, we were camped near to where the Gobi Desert is now. Even then, it was a hot, dry and very desolate place. She bound him to a tree, cut away all his clothing and left him to bake in the sun for 2 days without food or water. And that was just the start.” Methos said, falling into story-telling mode.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Irnhe giggled at the look on the trussed-up vampire’s face. “Are you sure vampires don’t have bodily functions? He looks like he has to take a shit!”

Mordecai sighed in feigned irritation, “Please my child, keep your mind on the task at hand.” He turned away in order to hide the smile that danced on his lips, for he had been thinking much the same thing.

Irnhe turned to Buffy and inquired, “What do we do next Milady?”

In reply, Buffy slipped a wicked-looking dagger from her right boot. “Next we remove every last stitch of clothing he is wearing. But be careful, we don’t want to cut him…yet.” So saying, she proceeded to slice off Angel’s clothing, leaving his pale flesh exposed to the relentless rays of the sun.

Angel squirmed as the holy water in the ropes began to burn into his flesh, and the sun beat down on him, turning his skin a pale pink, which gradually deepened.

“Now that he is no long encumbered with the useless rags he was wearing, his true punishment can begin.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“After two days of baking in the sun during the day, and enduring 2 nights of freezing temperatures, Buffy used a whip to circumcise Kronos.” Methos said with a mirthless grin. “I don’t know if it was deliberate or not, but she ended up castrating him as well.”

Spike, Giles and Xander all shared a look at grimaced in sympathetic pain while the girls giggled and clapped at the justice brought on Kronos.

“She then proceeded to flay the skin off his entire body with the same whip, until not even an inch of skin remained intact.” Methos shook his head at the memory of Kronos’ screams. “She was ruthless and immovable. No matter how much he screamed, she refused to stop.”

“How long did it take before he, you know, died?” Xander asked in a squeaky voice.

Anya glared at Xander and snorted in derision. “Havent you been paying attention? Kronos was an immortal, just like Methos and Buffy are. Meaning he couldn’t be killed like that.”

Methos raised a hand and motioned Anya to silence. “its an honest question, and one that does deserve an answer.” He chuckled wryly. “Fact is, he died 32 times before she was finished with him. And she only finished his punishment after he begged her for 3 days to end it.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“Now, normally I would leave you here to contemplate what is to come, but I neither have the time nor inclination to drag this out. So we shall begin forthwith.” Buffy turned to Mordecai and accepted the coiled whip he held out to her. Grasping the handle, she shook the whip out, letting its length snake on the ground. “Any last words before I make you scream?”

“Untie me you bitch, or you’ll be the one screaming.” Angel said with a sneer.

Buffy simply laughed and snapped the whip just above Angel’s head, getting a feel for the weight and reach of the whip. “I can guarantee you; I won’t be the one screaming.

With a casual flick of her wrist, Buffy sent the whip slicing through the air to strike Angel across the chest. She watched as a thin line of red appeared in its wake, and smirked at his muted gasp of pain. “Oh did I forget to mention that the whip has razor-sharp slivers of metal woven into the final 12” of its length?”

Mordecai leaned close to Irnhe and motioned towards Buffy. “Watch closely how she wields the whip, as if it were an extension of her arm.” His eyes widened in appreciation as he watched Buffy handle the whip in such a manner as to leave the cuts almost precisely one half inch apart. “Damn she’s gotten better at this…,” he muttered to himself.

Irnhe watched Buffy carefully as she wielded the whip with practiced ease. She admired the way in which an intricate pattern seemed to appear on the vampire’s skin. That is when she noticed something rather… unusual… “Um Milady, is he supposed to be enjoying this?”

Buffy paused and looked over at Irnhe. “Not really. Why do you ask?”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~


A brief flare of consternation crossed Spike’s face as a rather unpalatable thought ran through his mind. “One small problem with vamps and physical torture.” Spike glanced over at Methos and sighed. “They tend to enjoy it...,” he muttered.

Methos nodded once to show he understood, but it was Xander who voiced the obvious. “You mean he’s going to get turned on by her using a whip on him?”

“EWWWW! XANDER!” Dawn, Tara and Willow all yelled at once. “That just an icky thought.” Willow continued. All three girls gave a shudder and made ‘ick’ faces.

“As unpalatable as it may be, Spike is quite correct. Vampires as a general rule do tend to enjoy the application of pain, both to give and receive.” Giles said, shaking his head in disbelief at the antics being performed by the girls.

Methos chuckled wryly and said, “Well, I hope he doesn’t become too excited. All it will do is give her a bigger target for the whip.”

Spike let out a roar of laughter, “Not that big of a target, if you get what I mean!” He continued to chuckle as he helped himself to more of the spicy ginger beef.

Methos join in with a chuckle of his own before stating, “Well, it will be even less so by the time she is finished with him.”

Anya listened with a smile on her face. “I had forgotten how nice it is to be around people who don’t mind talking about torturing, maiming and possibility of dismemberment.”

Xander winced and scowled, “Please Ahn! No mention of the removal of parts! Even the thought is too painful to contemplate.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Irnhe motioned towards Angel, who wore a look of pained bliss on his face. “He seems to find this method of punishment… stimulating.”

Buffy rolled her eyes and snorted, “Bloody vampires.” Then she started to giggle and turned to Irnhe. “One would have thought, seeing as he is so damned cocky, that his cock would be bigger that that!” She pointed at Angel’s groin and dissolved into a fit of giggles, accompanied by Irnhe.

Still snickering, Irnhe made an observation. “Maybe he’s just trying to compensate for his inadequacies?” This set the two young women off into another round of giggles.

Mordecai just shook his head at the gigglers and turned to look at Angel, noting the pout that seemed to be forming on the vampires face. “Don’t worry my boy. She won’t forget about you. Consider this a rest break; you are going to need it.”

Angel just glared at the old man and turned his gaze back to Buffy and Irnhe. He couldn’t understand what they found so funny, but he had the feeling that they were making fun of him, for some reason.

Buffy straightened up and turned back to Angel, casually swishing the whip in her hand so it slithered along the ground like a snake. She noticed the pout on his face and smirked. “Are you feeling ignored Angelus?”

“Angel.” He stated, as a frown formed on his face. “I have a soul.”

Buffy laughed derisively. “Do you really think it matters what you call yourself? You are the same now as you were as a human, only worse. You have deluded yourself into the belief that you are above reproach and are better than everyone else.” Buffy shook her head and continued. “The only difference between the human you were, and the vampire you became, is your sun allergy and liquid diet. You were a waste of space then, and are a waste of space now.” With that said Buffy flicked her wrist and laid the whip across Angel’s lower abdomen, causing him to wince and attempt to move away from the pain, only to be stopped by the ropes and the tree. She turned towards Mordecai and raised one delicately shaped eyebrow. “Do you think I should step things up a little? Because this just doesn’t seem to be getting any response from him.”

Mordecai ran an appraising eye over Angel and sighed. “You forget my dear vampires can take more pain than most humans. I believe you will have to do something a little more… drastic… to garner a satisfactory response from him.”

“Well, in that case…” Buffy grinned mischievously, “I have just the thing.” With a practiced flick of her wrist, the whip was coiled at her feet, and she dropped the handle on top of the coils. Buffy removed a wicked-looking dagger from inside the top of her left boot and ran an appraising eye over the edge. “Yes, I think this will do nicely.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Xander glanced back and forth between his girlfriend and the two men who were joking and laughing about what was probably happening to Angel at this very moment when a question ran across his mind and grabbed his attention. “Hey guys, just curious, but what will Buffy do if she finds out that Angel is enjoying whatever she’s doing to him?”

Methos just chuckled darkly and said, “More than likely she’ll abandon that whip of hers for something a little sharper. Depending on the dagger she chooses, it will either cauterize the wounds as she makes them, or make the wounds bleed even more freely.” He shrugged and continued, “Based on what I know about Angelus, she’s probably using her left-hand dagger in a very personal way right about now.”

Anya bounced in her seat. “I’ve always wondered if vampires can regenerate certain body parts…” She trailed off as all of the men shared a look and shuddered in sympathetic pain.

Spike smirked in amusement as he watched Anya bounce excitedly. “Don’t be thinking to experiment on this vamp, Demon Girl. I like my parts just where they are.”

Anya smiled at Spike and said, “Don’t worry Spike, Xander made me promise I wouldn’t touch any penis besides his.” She giggled softly, “I’m sure Buffy will tell me if I ask her though. About the removal of Angel’s penis and if it grows back.”

Methos threw back his head and laughed loudly. “Oh I’m sure she will explain it in great detail.”

Xander scowled at Anya, “I thought we had agreed not to discuss personal matters in public, Ahn.”

“This isn’t public Xander, this is family.” Anya replied with an innocent smile.

Dawn giggled and shook her head. “I may love Xander like a brother, Anya, but I don’t need to hear all about his… parts.” She grimaced in disgust.

Giles removed his glass and polished the lenses. “I concur. None of us need to know about Xander’s… parts.” He placed the glasses back on his face and adjusted them until they were comfortable. “Now, can we get back to the topic at hand?”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Buffy approached Angel, a wicked smirk gracing her lips. “Let’s see how much you enjoy this.” She traced the point of the dagger lightly down Angel’s torso, leaving a bubbling welt in its wake. She turned to Irnhe and said, “When you do this, you will need a heated dagger. Quite useful when the subject must not bleed to death.”

Mordecai nodded. “Everything she needs will be provided. You have my word on this.”

Buffy smiled at Mordecai as she traced the dagger around Angel’s navel. “I know you will provide. You always do.” Turning her attention back to Angel as he let out a strangled groan. “Is this getting your attention vampire?”

Angel bit back a scream, but was only partially successful. It came out as another strangled groan. He shook his head and tried to adopt a bored expression, until Buffy stuck the dagger’s tip into his navel and held it there. His entire body jerked and he shouted out in pain.

Irnhe chuckled, “Sounds like that got his attention.”

“Indeed, wonder how loud I can make him scream?” Buffy queried, as she traced the dagger’s point lightly down the length of Angel’s rapidly shrinking dick. “Oooo, I don’t think he likes this anymore!” Buffy said with snicker. She moved the dagger to Angel’s thighs and traced a dozen lines vertically from hip to knee, each line exactly a half inch from the one next to it. Buffy stepped back, admiring her handiwork and laughed at the look on Angel’s face. “Don’t worry vampire, I’m not finished with you yet.”

Mordecai stepped up beside Buffy and commented, “Your skills have improved since you were my student, my dear.”

“Thanks Mordecai. I do try to keep a hand in, from time to time.” Buffy stated, her head cocked to one side as she studied Angel and contemplated her next move. “You know, I’ve always wondered if vampires can regenerate all their body parts, given enough time and blood…,” she muttered to herself as she approached Angel again. “What do you think Angel?”

“I am not going to tell you anything, you psychotic bitch. Now let me go!” Angel snarled.

“Well, I guess I shall just have to find out for myself.” Buffy said with a grin. “Care to join me Irnhe, in a little scientific exploration?”

“I would be honored, My Lady.” Irnhe said as she stepped up next to Buffy.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~


“Right, back to Kronos.” Methos grimaced and look at Giles. “As I said she spent weeks torturing him for not obeying her commands. In the end, he was ready to do whatever she asked of him, if she would just stop the pain. When she was finished, he no longer had the inclination, or the ability, to violate anyone in the same manner again.”

“I thought immortals regenerated and recovered from their wounds rapidly and completely?” Anya asked a look of fascination on her face.

“Generally, we do. Depending on the age of the immortal of course. The older ones heal quite rapidly, even from mortal wounds.” Methos said, taking a drink of coffee.

“So how did she do it? I mean, how did she castrate him?” Anya asked leaning forward eagerly, deliberately oblivious to the pained looks her boyfriend was sending her.

“Just so you know, it took her several weeks to reach the point where she removed his equipment, but seeing as Angel attempted to touch Dawn, I don’t think she’ll have as much patience with him.” Methos explained. “As I said, she’s more than likely using her left-hand dagger, which cauterizes wounds as they are made, to carve a lasting impression on the vampire. And knowing her the way I do, she is more than likely ‘experimenting’ to see if his balls will grow back.” Methos shrugged.

“Somehow, I don’t see her being too concerned if they don’t grow back.” Willow said with a faint smile.

“She won’t be. Considering that she wanted to kill him outright.” Again, Methos shrugged. “She’ll take what she can get.” Suddenly Methos surged to his feet, his hand going automatically to his sword. “Someone is at the door.”

Spike stood up and approached the door. “Seeing as I’m hard to kill, let’s see who is behind door number one, shall we?” Thus said, he flung the door open to reveal their visitor.

Methos abruptly sheathed his sword and sat back down. “Damnit Cass, couldn’t you have at least called to warn me you were coming? Or do you get a perverse pleasure out of driving me up the wall?”

“Phones can be tapped, hence no phone call,” Cassandra said as she came to stand before Methos. “As for driving you up the wall, I’ll take any chance I can to torment you.” She shrugged. “I thought you might like to know what Joe has found out.”

Methos looked up at Cassandra and quirked an eyebrow. “And what has Joe found out that necessitated your dramatic arrival?”

Spike closed the door and leaned against the wall behind Xander, “Something tells me there is a story behind these two.”

Xander nodded, watching the byplay between the two immortals, “Yeah, kinda reminds me of Joyce and Giles.”

Cassandra cast a glare at the two males before returning her attention to Methos. “It seems that both sides of the Watcher’s Council are acting in tandem. They know we are here, and from what Joe has said, they have this idea to ‘take out’ Mr. Giles and blame us.”

“Oh my, Mother is not going to be pleased.” Joyce said as she came to stand beside Cassandra. “Not pleased at all.”

“No, Mother won’t be pleased at all,” Methos, mused. “I’d hate to be in their shoes when she finds out.”

“Why? What will she do?” Xander asked with a perplexed frown on his face.

Before either Cassandra or Methos could answer, Joyce did. “It’s not a question of what WILL she do, more like what WON’T she do.” Joyce paced back and forth for a few moments and shook her head. “To be honest, someone should call and warn them that she’s coming. It would only be fair.”

Methos chuckled, “Now why would we want to warn them? Seeing the looks of outrage melt into absolute terror is one of the best parts!”

Cassandra smacked Methos on the back of the head. “And you really enjoy making people afraid don’t you?”

“That was a long time ago Cass, cant we let it go?” Methos asked with a sigh.

“Perhaps, in time. When you’ve proven to me that you aren’t still a… idiot.” Cassandra said with a huff as she slid into a chair beside Dawn.

Anya looked back and forth between Cassandra and Methos, and then said with an innocent smile that belied her words, “I guess that means you won’t be letting it go?”

There was dead silence in the room, and then all the men shouted out at the same time “Hey!” Which prompted laughter from the all the females.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Buffy positioned herself so both Irnhe and Mordecai could have a clear view of what she was doing. “I should have brought gloves for this,” she said with disgust. “I really don’t want to touch that tiny prick he has.”

Irhne reached out with a slender hand, “Allow me.” She grasped the tip of Angel’s cock between her thumb and index finger, pulling it up towards his navel.

Angel chuckled roughly, his throat sore from screaming. “Just what I always wanted, two bitches playing with my cock.”

Buffy flicked Angel an irritated glance, but spoke calmly to Irhne. “Thank you my dear. Just remember to scrub your hand clean really well afterwards.” Buffy placed the tip of the dagger at the place where his cock joined his balls. “To make this effective, and a fair experiment, we should remove the testicles first and see if they can regenerate. If they can...” and here she paused to give Angel a wicked grin, “just think of all the fun we can have removing them over and over.”

Mordecai chuckled at the look of disbelief and apprehension on the vampire’s face. “I do believe the vampire finally understands that this is, in fact, a punishment.”

A wicked laugh escaped Buffy’s lips as she pressed the tip of the dagger into Angel’s tender flesh. “Always knew he was a little on the slow side. This just proves it.” Ignoring the vulgar vocalizations of the vampire, she drew the dagger in a straight line down his ball sac, neatly drawing a shallow incision.

“If you don’t mind me asking, wouldn’t it be easier to simply remove the testes with a deep horizontal cut?” Irnhe asked with a look of concentration on her face.

“Normally, yes. However I have something more… intricate… in mind for our guest,” Buffy said with a smirk.

Mordecai came closer, his curiosity shining in his pale eyes. “What did you have in mind?”

“Well, I am going to make an incision just deep enough to be able to pull the skin back from the interior.” As she said this, she suited actions to words and traced the shallow incision once more, pulling back the skin as she did so, revealing the inner workings of the scrotum. She inserted a finger into the wound and hooked it around the now exposed testes, pulling them to the outside. “Now, we will simply relieve the vampire of his un-needed spermatozoa factory, seeing as they are all dead anyway.” With one swipe of the dagger, she severed the testes from Angel’s scrotum and chuckled darkly. “Prairie Oysters anyone?”

Angel screamed loudly as the searing pain raced upward from his groin. “You fucking cunt, I’m going to rip your goddamned head off and play football with it.”

“Tsk tsk tsk. Such language in the presence of ladies. Surely your mother taught you better?” Mordecai asked with a disapproving frown.

More foul words dripped from the vampire’s lips as his facial features finally changed from his human visage to his vampiric one.

Ignoring the vampire’s words, Buffy continued with her rather macabre demonstration. “Now, we shall simply replace the removed organs, with another one.” Casting a mischievous smirk towards Irnhe, “and if you would be so kind as to tuck that into the incision?”

Irhne giggled as she delicately inserted Angel’s cock into the wound, using her other hand to prop the empty sac upwards to ensure it was all tucked inside.

“Excellent.” Buffy smiled at the young girl. “Now normally we would have to sew the scrotum closed to keep his useless cock inside. However, in this case we can simply use the flat of my dagger and cauterize the wound closed. Hold the bottom please, so I don’t accidentally burn you.” As she said this, Buffy grasped the edges of the wound, holding them closed together and ran flat of the dagger across the incision, wrinkling her nose at the stench of burning flesh.” Nodding to Irnhe to remove her hand and step back, Buffy stood up and looked Angel in the face. “As much as I would have dearly loved to kill you for what you were planning to do with Dawn, I believe this will suffice… for now.” A hard look crossed her face. “However, regardless of the council’s wishes, if I ever hear even a rumor of you attempting to do such to ANY young person again, I will not stay my hand.” Turning her back on the fuming vampire Buffy addressed her next words to Mordecai and Irnhe. “Keep him here for the equivalent of 100 years, inflict as much pain on him as you wish, short of killing him. Keep an eye on my little experiment, and let me know if they do in fact regenerate. If they do, repeat what I have just done until such time as the 100 years has ended.”

Both Mordecai and Irnhe nodded at Buffy’s instructions. “How much time must pass in the mortal world before we return him,” Mordecai asked.

“1 year to the day from when he was taken, as to where I leave that up to your discretion.” Buffy said with a dismissing wave of her hand. “My time here, however, is at an end. There are matters in the mortal world requiring my attention.” She gave Mordecai a hug, “It was pleasant seeing you again.” Turning to Irnhe, she enveloped the young girl in her arms as well. “And a pleasure to make your acquaintance my dear.”

Mordecai and Irnhe both bowed low, as Buffy gave them a jaunty wave and faded from the higher realms back to the mortal world.

Buffy faded back into the mortal realms in time to hear gentle feminine laughter ringing throughout the house. She paused for a moment, a small smile gracing her lips at the sound of merriment. Wondering what had prompted such laughter, she reached out and gently touched Spike’s mind. A soft chuckle escaping her lips as she realized that Anya had insulted Methos and the other three men with one single sentence.

Methos’ ears picked up a soft sound coming from the doorway behind him and casually turned his head to see if he could spot anyone. At that moment his senses went on full alert, and judging by the way Cassandra’s head had come up, so did hers. Almost as one they stood and drew their swords, Cassandra coming to stand by Methos in a rare show of solidarity.

When Methos and Cassandra stood up, Spike went on alert as well, and let his demon come forth, to heighten his own senses. A rumbling chuckle issued from his chest as he realized who was standing just outside the dining room door.

Methos cast an irritated glance at the apparently amused vampire, but before he could say anything, a cloaked figure stepped through the doorway and began to speak.

“Have you learned nothing of what I taught you? Or are you so complacent that you no longer maintain your alertness?” With these words, Buffy lowered the hood of her cloak and fixed her gaze on the two sword-wielding immortals, one eyebrow raised in inquiry.

Cassandra sheathed her sword and glared at Methos before turning to Spike. “You knew she was there, did you not?”

Spike nodded, “Yeah, when I saw you and Methos go into battle mode, and I decided to see who was there. Imagine my surprise when I recognized her scent.” He tapped the side of his nose. “Vampire senses come in handy sometimes.”

Methos grumbled, “You could have said something.” He didn’t turn around, knowing better than to take his eyes off of Buffy when she was in her ‘teacher’ mode.

“Now where would be the fun in that?” Spike asked as he casually reached out and swiped the last of the spicy chicken right from under Xander’s hand.

“Oh put that thing away before you poke your eye out.” Buffy said with exasperation. She walked past Methos and unclasped her cloak, sliding it off and folding it over the back of a chair.

Xander whistled as he caught sight of what Buffy was wearing. He leaned over and tapped Spike on the shoulder, “I guess you’re the submissive in this relationship, huh Spike?” Xander leaned back and chuckled softly, thinking he had scored a point against Spike in their never-ending game of mutual harassment.

Spike simply let his eyes wander from the toes of Buffy’s thigh-high leather boots, all the way up to the gemstone centered on her forehead, and swallowed hard.

Giles looked over at Spike in concern, and the chuckled. “I must say this is a first, in all the time I have known him. My congratulations Buffy. You have rendered Spike speechless.”

Buffy laughed softly as she helped herself to some of the food on the table. “Some how I don’t think that condition will last long. Especially if you keep teasing him about it.”

Methos slowly sheathed his sword and returned to his chair, a look of consternation on his face. “How long had you been standing there?”

“Only a few moments,” Buffy said after swallowing a mouthful of food. “Why?”

“Just curious as to why I didn’t sense you when you first appeared,” Methos said, reaching for his cup of coffee.

“To be honest, I was cloaking my presence. Just in case there were unexpected ‘guests’ present.” Buffy took a sip of the coffee Dawn had brought her. “I also think the energies emanating from the Hellmouth interfere with the signature immortals emit.”

“That would explain why Methos didn’t sense Cassandra’s presence until she was at the door,” Joyce said with a small laugh.

“Indeed.” Buffy stated s she put the plate down and folded her hands in her lap. “I think we need to discuss a few things before the proverbial shit hits the fan.” She laughed as Giles reached for a pad of paper and a pen. “First off, Angel will not be bothering anyone for the period of one human year. He is currently being re-educated as to proper behavior.”

Anya interrupted excitedly. “Did you cut his penis off? Did he cry when you cut his penis off?

“ANYA!” Xander cried crossing his legs. “I thought we agreed not to mention the removal of parts?”

“Oh pish, I want to know!” Anya slapped Xander on the knee. “It’s not like I asked her to remove your penis.”

“His penis was not removed, but it was… restrained… in a rather unique manner. And yes, he did cry and scream as the operation was performed,” Buffy said with a self-satisfied smirk.

“What did you do him?” Giles asked, writing furiously.

“To put it simply, I removed his balls, tucked his penis in, and cauterized it shut.” Buffy finished off her coffee before placing the empty cup on the table.

As one, the four males in the room winced and crossed their legs. Spike was the first to speak. “So what you are saying then, is that you basically made a girl out of him.”

“Pretty much.” Buffy responded with a decisive nod. “Now, enough about the idiot. Tell me what happened here.”

One by one they told Buffy about the various attacks and near misses by the council’s operatives. With each person’s story, her eyes darkened and her expression became darker, until it was clear she was in a controlled rage. When everyone had finished telling her what had happened, she stood up and began pacing the floor, thinking. Several minutes passed, the only sound being the click of her boots on the floor. Finally, she turned to face the group and a wicked smile was on her lips. “I do believe it is time that I paid a visit to the Watcher’s Council Headquarters and had a few words with their current Head. It seems they have forgotten the basic tenets of their gathering, and instead are concentrating on their own personal biases.” Having said that, Buffy turned to the doorway and proceeded out, pausing in mid-stride. “We will begin when the sun goes down tomorrow night. For now I need some rest.” So saying she left the room and proceeded to the basement, Spike hot on her heels.

Buffy opened the door to the basement and swept down the stairs, knowing Spike was right behind her, but not bothering to look back and verify his presence. She paused at the bottom of the stairs and let out a piercing shriek, loud enough to wake the dead, and causing Spike’s ears to ring.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“What the hell was that?” Xander cried as he jumped to his feet.

Methos and Cassandra shared a glance and they both sighed softly, but it was Cassandra who spoke. “That was Buffy, expressing some of her anger and frustration. Nothing to worry about really.”

“Nothing to worry about?” Xander exclaimed. “She sounded like she is going to hurt someone!”

“She is,” Methos stated in a matter-of-fact tone. “However, instead of bottling up her anger and frustration, she has found that… scream… to an effective release valve on her otherwise explosive and deadly temper. To be honest, I’d be more concerned if she didn’t scream. She is at her deadliest when she is silent. “

Anya started to nod, “Yes, having her scream is much better than waking up to everyone being dead. I am glad she found a way to release some of her frustrations.” Anya stated this rather dryly, a small smile twitching at the corners of her mouth. “After all, we wouldn’t want a repeat of the 5th Legion, would we?” she asked innocently.

“Indeed no. That would be a most unpleasant way to start the day,” Cassandra said with a small smirk.

Giles turned to Cassandra and asked, “What happened to the 5th Legion, if I may be so bold as to ask?”

It was Methos who spoke instead of Cassandra. “It actually started off as a bet.” He scratched the end of his nose and gave a rueful grin. “I had bet her that she couldn’t gain access to the encampment without resorting to violence.”

Cassandra interrupted, “She actually managed that part. What nobody took into account was the fact that the sentinels thought she should provide ‘entertainment’ as payment.”

Methos nodded almost sheepishly. “Needless to say she took exception to that suggestion, and when she refused, they attempted to force her…” he trailed off, noting the looks of incredulity on the faces of those in the room.

Anya blinked once and an expression of devilment crossed her face. “And then she got so mad she just caused them all to drop dead!” She paused and looked around the room then asked quietly, “Right?”

“Close, Anya. Quite close in fact. But there is one thing history, and you, seem to have missed.” Methos chuckled quietly and continued, “They dropped dead, minus their heads.”

“Are you saying she killed them all?” Xander said disbelief and horror filling his voice.

“You need to understand she was in a different place, emotionally and mentally, at that time. There was so much anger and hatred inside her, it didn’t take much to set her off,” Methos said quietly. “If the sentinels had backed off, and not pressed the issue, or had not tried to force her, nothing would have happened. As it was, they hit her, and attempted to force her, sexually.” Methos dropped his head into his hands.

Cassandra stood up and walked over to Methos, placing a hand on his shoulder. “She doesn’t remember the exact details of what she did, but by the time the sun rose, every male over the age of 10 in that encampment had been decapitated.” She shrugged her shoulders in a casual motion. “When it first happened, it was attributed to an invading army, and then to a group of assassins. As time when on, it became demons, and then disease. Only she knows the complete truth, somewhere deep inside.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“I am so tired of all this shit,” she ranted, ending the sentence with a rumbling growl. “If it isn’t stupid, pain in the ass mortals interfering in my business, it’s insane, pain in the ass immortals sticking their necks out waiting for the sword-strike.” Buffy stalked towards the door leading into Spike’s bedroom. “And then we have a stupid worthless vampire who thinks he’s god’s gift to the entire world. I know a few gods, and they wouldn’t even claim his sorry ass!”

Spike listened to Buffy rant, making no comment, just letting her get her frustrations out. Something Xander had said earlier running through his mind, and a wickedly erotic plan began to form in his mind.

“And the Council?” Buffy continued, as she stopped beside the bed. “Didn’t they learn their lesson last time? Granted it was a few centuries ago, but still!” She flopped backwards onto Spike’s bed, covering her face with her hands and let out another scream.

Spike followed Buffy into the room, and paused in the doorway. ‘She’s never going to get any rest at this rate, she’s too wound up,’ Spike thought. ‘Best way I know to relieve tension is with good hard shag, but somehow I doubt she’s going to be receptive to me trying to seduce her.’ Spike slipped his shirt and boots off quietly and walked silently towards the bed. ‘Guess we’ll see if she’s as Domne as her outfit suggests.’

Buffy continued to grumble under her breath, muttering to herself about all the things she wanted to do to the beings that were attempting to harm those she considered family. She paused in mid-grumble when a slight noise caught her attention. Sitting up she saw Spike sink to his knees beside the bed. “What on earth are you doing Spike?”

Spike dropped his gaze to the soft carpeting underneath his knees. “I am waiting for your commands, Mistress,’ Spike said, making sure not to raise his eyes.

“My commands,” Buffy queried softly, letting her eyes slowly roam over the exposed alabaster skin of Spike’s toned torso.

“Yes Mistress,” Spike said softly yet clearly. “You have but to order it and I will obey.”

Unbeknownst to Spike, a small smile graced Buffy’s lips and a mischievous sparkle entered her eyes. ‘Oh this could be so much fun,’ she thought, slowly rising to her feet. “Then my first command to you is to stand up and help me undress.”

Spike rose to his feet and began to help Buffy disrobe.

Spike ran his fingers lightly across Buffy’s shoulders and down her sides, seeking the catches that were holding her chainmail tunic closed. His sensitive fingertips found and undid them, then slipped the shimmering mass of silver links from her slender form. He turned to the chair beside the dresser and draped the tunic over the back of it.

“Nicely done,” Buffy murmured, her eyes slowly roaming across the exposed alabaster flesh of Spike’s back.

“Thank you Mistress.” Spike said with a tender smile, turning back to Buffy and kneeling at her feet. “Let me remove your boots for you.” He ran his hands from her ankles up her legs to the tops of her boots, which were snuggly fitted around her upper thighs.

Buffy slid her fingers through the lightly-gelled swirls of hair adorning the top of Spike’s head, murmuring her appreciation of its texture. She giggled softly as Spike’s fingers danced along the tops of her boots, tickling her inner thighs.

Spike skimmed his fingers lightly around to the back of Buffy’s thighs and tugged on the tied laces that held her boots tightly closed. He chuckled to himself as he heard Buffy’s gentle giggle in response to his light tickling. Dipping his fingers beneath the laces, he gently loosened them, watching with avid eyes as the leather slipped gently down Buffy’s thighs, baring her smooth skin.

Buffy sighed in appreciation as the restricting leather of her boots was loosened and slipped down her legs to pool around her calves. She placed one hand on Spike’s shoulder to brace herself, and as he tugged each boot off, she lifted her foot enough for him to slip them off completely.

Spike placed the boots by the same chair the tunic was on, without moving from his kneeling position, making it quite a show of stretching. He flicked a glance upwards and caught the look of heat in Buffy’s eyes as she watched his muscles flex beneath his pale skin. He rose smoothly to his feet, lightly trailing his hands up the outer curves of her body. Upon reaching her shoulders, he paused and smiled softly, before raising his hands to her hair, and removing her circlet. He turned away and placed it gently on the dresser.

As Spike turned away, Buffy raised her hands to her head and loosened her hair, sighing softly in gentle pleasure. With her eyes, she traced the planes of his back, admiring the fluid way he moved.

Spike turned back to Buffy and with a gentle smile, asked “Shall I help you out of your gown now Mistress?”

“Not yet Spike. First I want you to strip. I want to see your sexy body displayed for my viewing pleasure.” Buffy smiled, and traced her index down the center of Spike’s chest.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

“You don’t think she’ll hurt Spike, do you?” Tara quietly asked.

“No, she won’t hurt him. I have a feeling that Spike will be able to handle whatever might happen. In fact he might even enjoy it.” Methos said, exchanging a smirking glance with Cassandra.

Before anyone else could speak, Anya tossed in her two cents. “It IS a well known fact that vampires like pain. We did establish that fact earlier. So I am sure that he can help her work off any remaining tensions her torture of Angel may have caused.”

Willow sat up straight, a look of astonished embarrassment on her face. “I think we had better put a silencing spell on the basement then. After all, we don’t need to hear what they may do, and it is bound to be noisy, and it might not be good for people to hear it…” Willow trailed off, blushing as everyone looked at her.

“Based on what I heard the other morning when I came in, it might indeed be best to cast a silencing spell.” Giles yanked off his glasses and rubbed them on the hem of his sweater.

Cassandra grinned and said, “Already taken care of. Or hadn’t you noticed that we haven’t heard anything since that last scream?” She nodded her head at Joyce and continued, “I think it is safe for everyone to get some sleep. I’ll take first watch, just to be on the safe side if someone from the council tries anything.”

“Okay,” Joyce said, standing up. “Willow and Tara, you girls take the spare room. Xander and Anya, the couch is yours.”

Methos interrupted, “I suppose Giles will be staying with you in your room then?” He winked at Joyce, enjoying the way she blushed.

“Actually no, Rupert will be in Dawn’s room, and she will be bunking with me.” Joyce said as she slapped the back of Methos’ head. “There is a cot in the den that you and Cassandra can switch off on at watch change.”

Methos nodded and stood up. “Okay then, I suggest we all try and get some sleep. If I know Mother the way I think I do, we are gong to need it.”

Everyone stood and made their respective ways to their assigned sleeping places. Methos and Cassandra stayed behind to clean the dining room and kitchen, and then Methos sought out the cot and proceeded to nap, while Cassandra quietly paced around the house.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Spike toed off his boots, his eyes never leaving Buffy’s. His hands unfastened and then tugged his belt from its loops and made as if to drop it on the floor, but was forestalled by Buffy.

“I think I’ll take that,” Buffy said. “Never know when it might come in handy.”

Spike handed Buffy his belt, and then slowly unfastened his pants, pushing them off and exposing his hardened cock to her hungry eyes.

“MMMmmm. Now that is what a girl likes to see.” Buffy purred softly as Spike stepped from his jeans and used his left foot to push them under the dresser. “Oh no Spike. You need to bend over and pick those up.”

Spike bent over and reached for his jeans. His fingers hand just closed over the material when Buffy delivered a stinging blow to his naked ass with is own belt. He straightened up in surprise and turned to her, catching the mischievous twinkle in her eye.

“I told you the belt would come in handy.” Buffy shrugged and motioned to the chair. “Put your jeans there and then come here and help me remove my gown.”

Spike placed his jeans on the chair and turned to Buffy, his cock bouncing with each movement. He raised his hands to the wide belt she wore, smiling when Buffy turned around and presented her back to him, so he could reach the buckles holding the belt closed. As he removed the belt, he noticed that the gown seemed to be nothing more than a simple sheet of fabric wrapped around Buffy and held in place with the belt and silver brooches on her shoulders. He turned to the dresser to place the belt on it, and when he had turned back, Buffy was once more facing him, the material swirling around her body as if it was alive. He raised his hands to her shoulders and removed the brooches one at a time. As the gown fell, exposing her to his gaze, he swallowed hard and reached behind him with trembling hands to place the jeweled pins on the dresser.

Buffy stepped out of the puddle of fabric and reclined on the bed, her only remaining garment was the miniscule black thong she wore. She crooked a finger at Spike, beckoning him to her.

Spike swallowed hard, his eyes burning a path across the exposed Slayer stretched across his bed. He stalked towards her, his cock throbbing as it hardened beneath her molten gaze.

“Do you remember what you promised me, Spike?” Buffy asked as she ran the fingertips of her right hand up and down between her breasts. “Do you?”

His eyes following the path of her fingers, Spike cleared his throat and huskily asked, “Which promise was that Love?”

“Well I guess it was more of a promise to yourself but you did mention it to me, and it’s about me, or at least done to me, so I guess it’s also a promise to me…” Buffy rambled before trailing off with a small giggle.

Spike paused at the end of the bed, one eyebrow arched in query. “What are you blathering on about?”

In answer, Buffy slid both hands down her body and stroked herself through the thin material of her thong. “Are you saying you don’t remember?” She slipped one finger beneath the fabric and stroked her clit.

With his eyes fastened on Buffy’s fingers, Spike let a rumbling growl fill his chest. “Not saying I don’t remember, was just asking for a little clarification…” Spike knelt on the end of the bed and slid his hands up Buffy’s legs. “And I think you’ve cleared up my confusion quite nicely…” He inhaled deeply and savored the scent of her arousal.

“Well then. Since you are no longer confused…” Buffy smirked at him, “How about you fulfill that promise? Or do I need to spell it out for you?”

“Maybe you should, just so I don’t do something you don’t want me to do.” Spike said as his hands massaged the muscles in Buffy’s thighs.

“Very well, just so everything is completely clear.” Buffy dropped the smirk and moved her hands back up her body, until they were stretched over her head. “I want you to rip off my thong and put that mouth of yours to good use. I want that tongue of yours inside my pussy. Is that clear enough for you Spike?

“Yes Mistress, clear as a bell.” Spike slid his hands up and grasped the sides of Buffy’s thong, and with a sharp tug, ripped the delicate fabric from her body, revealing her smooth, wet core to his hungry eyes.

Buffy spread her legs and arched her back. “What are you waiting for? An engraved invitation?” Her voice held an impatient edge to it.

Without saying a word, and keeping his eyes locked on Buffy’s, Spike lowered his head and ran his tongue lightly over her hairless slit. He was rewarded by a gasp issuing from Buffy’s mouth and an arching of her hips. Using his fingers, Spike parted her lower lips, exposing her wet hole to the tender ministrations of his agile tongue. He gave an involuntary lurch of his hips as the tangy sweet flavor danced in his mouth. “Oh god, Love. You taste absolutely divine.” Spike murmured as he licked all around her hole, never quite penetrating and teasing her clit with barely felt licks.

Buffy slid her fingers into the softly curling hair on Spike’s head, lightly scratching his scalp. “Suck my clit Spike; I need you to suck it!”

Spike wrapped his lips around Buffy’s clit and gently sucked on it while sliding the middle finger of his left hand into her pussy. He set up a rhythmic sucking and slid 2 more fingers into her, timing his thrusts with his sucking.

Digging her nails into his scalp, Buffy arched her hips upwards as she pressed Spike’s head harder into her crotch. “Oh fuck yes!” Buffy screamed as Spike’s fingers stroked over her g-spot, causing her internal muscles to clench in anticipation.

Spike groaned to himself as he felt Buffy’s pussy tighten around his fingers. He pulled them out and then added a fourth as he drove them back in harshly, gently biting her clit at the same time.

Buffy’s hips came flying off the bed as her world shattered around her, the force of her orgasm causing stars to appear before her eyes and a scream to issue from her throat. As she gently floated back down from her peak, she felt Spike still licking at her pulsating hole, lapping up her flowing juices.

Spike was in oral heaven, Buffy’s thick orgasmic juices coating his face as he licked her clean, a rumbling purr having taken up residence in his chest. He shoved his tongue into her opening, as far as he could and licked her clean. When he lifted his head, Buffy had a dazed but hungry look in her eyes.

“On your back Spike,” Buffy said as she gazed on Spike’s face. “I need to feel you deep inside.” Buffy shakily raised herself up on her elbows and then collapsed back down. “On second thought… muscles don’t want to work…” Grasping the back of Spike’s neck with one hand, Buffy pulled him up. “Come up here Spike, I need you. I need to feel you.”

“As my lady wishes,” Spike said with a gentle smile. He slid his way up her body, until his hips were cradled between her thighs and his rock-hard cock was pressing against her pussy.

Buffy wrapped her arms and legs around Spike, holding him to her, reveling in the feel of his lean, muscular body on her own. “Oh this feels so nice,” Buffy hummed, luxuriating in the coolness of his skin.

“I know what will feel just as nice,” Spike whispered in her ear. “Let me in love.” He gave a gentle circular thrust of his hips, causing a moan to catch in the back of Buffy’s throat.

Buffy snaked one hand down between their bodies, and wrapped her fingers around Spike’s cock. “MMMmmm, I know this will feel sooooo good inside me.” Buffy gave his cock a slight squeeze as she positioned the head at the entrance to her core. “Come in Spike. Put your cock inside my aching pussy.”

Pushing gently forward, Spike slid his cock partway into her channel and groaned at the feel of her tight, wet heat surrounding him. “Gonna make you feel so good love, make you scream.” As he said this, he slid his cock deeper into Buffy, until he was buried to the hilt. “I could just stay here all day...” Spike trailed off with a small moan, his eyes locked on Buffy’s as he braced himself on his forearms.

Cassandra paced the lower floor of the house, checking each door and window. She glanced into the den and noticed Methos was apparently sleeping. With a shake of her head, she proceeded quietly upstairs and listened at each of the doors before heading back downstairs, satisfied that all was quiet for now.

Methos grinned to himself as he listened to Cassandra pace around the house. He wondered when she was going to remember that he couldn’t and wouldn’t sleep when there was a possibility of the people he cared for being in danger. As he lay there, his mind went over all the possible ways in which the current problem could be solved. H laughed softly to himself when he came to the conclusion that no matter what he could think of, Buffy would have something more dramatically loud and painful in mind. “She does have a few more years of experience with this sort of thing…” he muttered to himself before deciding to give up on the pretense of sleep. “I might as well join Cass on her wanderings.” Methos rose from the cot and silently walked out of the den and came up behind Cassandra. “Everything going okay?” he asked, and then took a quick step back as she spun around, startled, and pressed a dagger to his throat.

“Do NOT do that!” Cassandra quietly exclaimed. She pulled the dagger away and then shoved him against the wall behind him.

Methos started to laugh quietly, his shoulders shaking as he struggled to hold in his mirth. “If you could only see the look on your face…” he started to say but was cut off.

“When will you grow up and take things seriously? There are people out there trying to kill your family and you are acting like it’s a big joke!” Cassandra hissed furiously.

Methos put his hands up in an attempt to placate her. “I do take this seriously. I just couldn’t resist the opportunity to try and get a smile from you.”

Cassandra turned from him abruptly and slammed her dagger back into its sheath at her waist. “Your opportunity to make me smile disappeared when you handed me over to Kronos.” She stalked off towards the front of the house only to be stopped by Methos’ hand on her arm.

“How many times do I have to apologize for that and explain my reasoning’s behind it? I did what I had to do to keep you alive,” Methos hissed. “You know damned well he would have killed you if he even had an inkling that I cared for you!” He abruptly let her go and ran a hand through his hair. “I tried to put things off until I could contact Mother, but I ran out of time!” He turned away from her and stared out the kitchen window as the sun began to rise. “It’s been over 3000 years Cass, can’t you find it your heart to at least try and forgive me?” He sighed softly as she remained silent. “I guess not…” His sentence was abruptly cut off as she spun him around and pushed him against the counter.

“It would help if you had actually come out and apologized to me instead of telling everyone else how sorry you are,” Cassandra said with some heat. “I’ve heard from both Amanda and Mac how sorry you are, but not once have you actually said those words TO ME.”

Methos stood there, pinned against the counter, his mouth falling open in astonishment as he took in the import behind her words and then he hung his head in shame. She was right; he had never actually apologized to her. “I’m sorry Cassie, more than you can possibly imagine or even begin to understand…” He trailed off and lifted his head to stare into her eyes. “If I could have found any other way to keep you alive, I would have taken it.” He raised a shaky hand and gently stroked the hair back from her face. “It almost killed me to have to hand you over to Kronos.” Sliding his hand down her long hair, he slid his other arm around her waist and drew her unresisting body closer to his own and buried his face in her hair. “I am so sorry Cass, so damned sorry…” his voice trailed off as he inhaled her scent.

Cassandra snuggled in closer to him and whispered in his ear, “That wasn’t so hard now was it?” When Methos raised his head and looked at her she smiled gently. “And by the way, I forgive you.”

“It’s about time the two of you discussed your little problem. I was beginning to wonder if Methos would ever get his head out of his ass long enough to realize that he hadn’t actually said the words to you,” Buffy said from her position by the top of the basement stairs.

Methos and Cassandra jerked apart in startlement as Buffy’s words penetrated their mutual absorption. Sharing a glance with Cassandra, Methos turned to Buffy with a wry grin, “You look much more… relaxed… than you were earlier. I trust Spike helped you work out your… tensions?”

With a wry chuckle, Spike exited the basement and closed the kitchen curtains. “Do you and the little lady want to borrow the basement? You know, to work out some of your own… tensions?” Ignoring the blush on both Methos’ and Cassandra’s face, Spike turned to Buffy and asked, “Anything strike your fancy for brekkie?”

“Why don’t you and Methos discuss a breakfast menu fit for hungry people,” she glanced towards the ceiling, indicating the people upstairs, “and Cassandra and I shall discuss plans for invading the Watcher’s Council building in London.” Buffy chuckled softly. “It will be almost a pleasure to scare the crap out of those stuffy old men.” Taking Cassandra’s arm, Buffy led her from the kitchen, asking Cassandra her opinion on taking the ‘civilians’ with them.

Turning to Methos, Spike raised his left eyebrow and said, “Looks like you and me are on kitchen duty, any suggestions for breakfast?”

“Does Joyce have the makings for a full breakfast? Or are we stuck with overly sugared cereals and toast?” Methos asked with a slight grimace.

“Seein’ as I did the shoppin’ last, I can honestly say we could do a full English breakfast without any problems,” Spike replied as he started the coffee brewing.

“Then lets get started before the smell of the coffee rouses Joyce from her slumbers and she awakens the whole house,” Methos said as he started searching the cupboards for mixing bowls and other cooking paraphernalia.

While Spike and Methos debated over what exactly to serve for breakfast, Buffy and Cassandra made their way to the living room. They seated themselves on the sofa and continued their discussion on including the ‘civilians’, as Buffy referred to them.

“It would be best to take everyone with us,” Cassandra said softly, “That way we won’t need to worry about them. Which we would do if we left anyone behind.”

Buffy nodded in agreement. “We can leave the non-combatants at the house. They should be safe there, seeing as that idiot pupil of Mac’s is in residence there.”

“You mean Ritchie?” Methos asked as he entered the room with two steaming cups of coffee. “While I admit he’s heavy on the impulse and short on the planning, he is not in any way an idiot.” He handed the cups to the ladies and turned to leave the room. “I’d just call him a normal young male and have a club ready to smack him with when he does something stupid.” Methos returned to the kitchen, chuckling at the look of consternation on Buffy’s face.

“Crazy old man… has an opinion on everything…” Buffy muttered into her coffee.

Cassandra grinned, “And he is in no way shy about sharing those opinions.” She picked up her cup and inhaled the delectable aroma.

“Ain’t that the truth?” Buffy said with a grin. “But we wouldn’t have him any other way. “ She reached out and snagged a sheaf of blank paper and a pencil off the table in front of them. “So we use the Belgrave house as a base of operations. That won’t alert the Council that I’m in Town.” She wrote that on the paper and nodded almost to herself. “Joyce and Dawn should like it.”

“Dawn and I would like what?” Joyce asked as she stepped into the living room. “And is there anymore of that delicious smelling coffee?”

“Coffee is in the kitchen, but be careful. Spike and Methos are cooking breakfast,” Buffy said with a smirk. “And you and Dawn will like the house in London.” Buffy turned to Cassandra and inquired, “Will you call Samuel and have him get the jet prepped for takeoff? Tell him it needs to be ready in 5 hours. “She paused with a thoughtful look on her face. “Have him file a flight plan to Heathrow.”

“Of course.” Cassandra pulled out her cell phone and dialed a number. Standing up and pacing while waiting for the pilot to answer, she smiled absently at the people making their way down the stairs.

“Do you think it would be too much to ask that there is a pot of tea? Giles asked as he stumbled down the last 3 steps.

“Seeing as Spike is making breakfast, I think it is safe to assume that he made tea.” Joyce said with a grin. “Heaven forbid that you not get your ‘cuppa’ in the morning.”

“Yes, well. Not all of us are uncouth enough to drink that sludge you Americans prefer.” Giles said in a faux-haughty tone and snooty expression on his face. This was completely ruined as Dawn came rushing down the stairs and knocked into him, causing him to stumble and almost fall to the floor.

“I smell bacon!” Dawn said excitedly, as she rushed passed the stumbling Giles and into the kitchen. She was closely followed by Xander who had the look of a starving man about him. The two were promptly shoved back out of the kitchen with a loud growl following them.

“Sheesh, someone is mighty protective of their breakfast goods.” Xander muttered as he flung himself down into an armchair with a huff.

Joyce chuckled as she sipped her coffee and shook a finger at Xander. “You should know better than to disturb Spike when he is cooking.”

“It wasn’t Spike that tossed us out, or who growled at us!” Xander exclaimed huffily. “It was that brother of yours! He even threatened to throw a knife at me!”

Buffy looked up from the notes she was making and smirked. “If Methos wanted to throw a knife at you Xander, he wouldn’t have merely threatened, you would be pinned to the wall.”

Cassandra nodded to the person on the other end of her phone, even though they couldn’t see her. “Yes, a pick-up at the airstrip outside Sunnydale would be perfect. We will meet you there in 5 hours.” She said goodbye and snapped her phone shut. Cassandra looked over at Buffy and said,” Samuel will be ready in 5 hours with the jet.”

“Excellent. That will give us time to eat and pack.” Buffy continued making notes on the paper in front of her.

Methos sauntered out of the kitchen with a half-grin on his face. “Breakfast is served. Don’t blame me if it tastes weird, Spike did the majority of the cooking.”

“OI! Have some respect for the chef!” Spike hollered from the kitchen.

Xander jumped to his feet and rubbed his hands together as he made his way to the dining room. “So what gastronomical delights have the comedy chefs produced for our dining pleasure?”

“Pack?” Giles asked as he paused in the doorway. “Why would you be packing?”

“Not just me, Mr. Giles. ALL of us will be packing for an extended trip.” Buffy said with a smile as she passed him on her way into the dining room.

“Very well and where are we packing for?” Giles continued his inquiries as he followed Buffy to the table.

Buffy seemingly ignored Giles’ question as she turned to Methos, “Remind me to call Elvara once we are in the air. It would be best if she was apprised of our arrival.”

“Of course. If we don’t give her enough time to prepare, she might get Ritchie to meet as at the door.” Methos said with a slight smirk.

Giles cleared his throat in an attempt to gain Buffy’s attention, and succeeded only too well when she turned her mischievous gaze on him, “Best get something for that. You wouldn’t want to come down sick.” She grinned and continued, “And to answer your question, we are leaving for my house on Belgrave Square in London.

After a leisurely breakfast in which all the food was consumed, much to Spike’s amusement, Buffy rapped on the table to gain everyone’s attention. “Since a few, rather unacceptable things have happened in the last few days, I have made a decision to move everyone to a more secure location. One which will make the Watcher’s Council think you have disappeared off the face of the earth.

Giles raised one eyebrow and stated, “I don’t think there is any location on earth that the council cannot locate and access.”

Methos turned an icy-cold expression on Giles. “If Mother says the location is secured from outside influences, then it is.” Turning to Buffy his expression regained some of its warmth. “I am assuming you mean to use the house in London as a base of operations?”

“Exactly. It is already heavily protected, with Elvara living there with her girls.” Buffy looked around the room and nodded firmly. “Joyce, Dawn, I want you two to go upstairs and pack ONLY what you cannot do without. Cass, go with them please.” As the three ladies stood up and left the room, Buffy turned back to the group and continued, “After they return, we will proceed to each and every of yours homes and do the same thing. So I suggest you start thinking now about what you cannot leave behind. We don’t have time for you to pack up your entire life.” She was about to continue when Xander interrupted.

“I have work; I can’t just up and vanish. I’ll lose my job and …” Xander started to rant and was cut off in mid sentence by Methos. “Your place of employment has been notified of your absence. I cited a family emergency that is taking you out of town for a while. “ Methos stated calmly. “Now sit down and be quiet.”

Willow sheepishly raised a hand, “Ummm, Tara and I have classes...”she began, only to have Giles reach out and pat her hand. “I believe that has been taken care of as well.” Giles said softly.

Buffy nodded, “Yeah, your teacher’s think you have been accepted to an exchange program with Oxford, no worries.”

“Really? Oxford? You can do that?” Willow started babbling. “I mean, sure you can say it… but what if they check? Then they’d know and I’d be in sooo much trouble…” Willow tapered off, muttering to herself about lost grades and possible expulsion from class.

Buffy smirked at Willow’s babbling and shrugged. “Don’t’ worry so much firehead, I’ve got everything covered. If you school thinks to check, the paperwork is already in place.” She winked over at Tara and continued, “And if the two of wish to stay in England to continue your studies, that too can be arranged.” Leaving a stunned Willow to think over what she had just said, Buffy turned to Spike. “Best get downstairs and get your stuff Spike, the girls should be down soon and we will need to leave in a hurry.”

“Gotcha Love, “Spike said as he stood up, “won’t take but a mo’.” He sauntered out of the dining towards the kitchen and then to the basement stairs.

Okay then, after the girls come down, we will split up and do this fast, we have to be at the airstrip in less than an hour. Firstly, Methos will accompany Giles to his flat to gather his things. Spike will go with Xander and Anya to gather theirs.” Seeing Xander about to butt in Buffy glared at him. “This is not up for debate Mr. Harris.” Buffy nodded slightly as Xander seemed to subside. Cassandra and Joyce will follow Willow and Tara to their dorms to pack their essentials.” Holding up a hand to forestall the interruption she could read on Willow’s face, “I have made arrangements with the UoS to store the rest until such time as it is sent for.”

“And what will you be doing while we are all running around?” Giles demanded with a scowl on his face.

“Dawn and I will take my bike out to the airstrip. I expect you all to follow with all due haste. We ARE on a tight schedule. I don’t know when or where the council’s operatives will strike next.” Buffy said softly.

Just then Spike returned from the basement, a duffle carried in one hand. “Buffy love, I took the opportunity to call a friend of mine, to warn him what’s going down. He’s helped us out a few times and well… seems the council got to his sister and her family, killed all of them…including their little girl. He asked if he could come with, seems he wants a little payback.”

“Of course Spike, he is welcome to come. The more the merrier.” Buffy said with a wry smile.

“Already told him to meet us at the ‘strip.” Spike replied with a smirk.

“I can see you will have to keep an eye on this one, he seems like the type to get into trouble.” Cassandra said with a sarcastic drawl.

“Just like you will have to keep an eye on Methos. I KNOW he’s the type to find trouble whenever possible.” Buffy said with a grin.

Spike and Methos shared a glance and rolled their eyes. They knew that Buffy and Cass were just trying to keep things light and amusing so the younger people wouldn’t go into complete panic mode. Spike glanced up as he heard footsteps coming down the stairs. “Looks like they are finished here, we should head out and get things done,” Spike said, standing up.

Buffy nodded, “You all head out, Dawn and I will clean up and then head for the airstrip. Joyce, put Dawn’s bag in jeep, she’ll be riding with me.”

Joyce simply nodded her head and proceeded to the garage with the two bags. She knew things were going to be a little hectic for the next while. Everyone else also left the house, intent on their own errands. Dawn made as if to complain about the cleanup, but a stern look from Buffy killed the words before they could leave her lips.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Buffy pulled her bike up in front of the small group of buildings that served as the airport for Sunnydale. She glanced up and down the runway but did not see the jet, nor did she see any of the others. Looks like they were the first ones to arrive. Shutting the bike off, Buffy half-turned in her seat to talk to her passenger. “You can take the helmet off now, Dawnie. We are here, and look like we are the first ones.”

“No we aren’t Buffy, I see Clem over by the fueling shed.” Dawn pointed towards Spike’s friend who was hiding in the shadows of a large shed.

Buffy looked over where Dawn was pointing and grinned at the sight of the floppy-eared demon hiding behind a stack of crates. “Why did the council attack him and his family? The worst they could have done was eat Traver’s cat….” Buffy muttered to herself as she helped Dawn off the bike.

Dawn giggled as she slipped off the bike and ran over to give Clem a hug. “I’m sorry about your family Clem” Dawn hugged him tighter. “Clerise was so sweet, I’m gonna miss her.”

Clem didn’t say anything, just wrapped his arms around Dawn and hugged her back, thankful for her sympathy. He looked up when Buffy approached, wary of any strangers.

“Don’t worry Clem, that’s just Buffy. I’m sure Spike told you about her?” Dawn said with an inquiring tone to her voice.

Clem nodded, and then quietly inquired, “You don’t mind me tagging along? I wasn’t sure even though Spike said it would be alright.” Clem let go of Dawn and started nervously wringing his hands together.

“I don’t mind at all Clem. Spike told me what happened. I can guarantee you your revenge.” Buffy stated with a quiet but firm conviction coloring her voice. She turned her eyes to the road as her ears picked up the sound of an approaching vehicle. Not recognizing it at first, she placed herself in front of Dawn and Clem, one hand reaching up for the hilt of her sword. She relaxed when Joyce’s jeep emerged from the hazy dust of the unpaved road. Buffy moved to open the bay doors to the shed, motioning for Joyce to pull the jeep inside. When the motor was shut off and the women emerged, Buffy told them, “The jeep will be safe here for the time being.”

Cassandra turned to Buffy and said, “It’s a good thing that Samuel suggested bringing the helicopter instead. I don’t believe the jet could land here.” She shot Joyce a conspiratorial grin, “The runway is too short.”

“Aren’t you just a barrel of laughs?” Buffy muttered under her breath as everyone in the shed gave a quiet chuckle. She spun around as the sound of more vehicles approaching was heard. “I hope it’s the rest of the chuckle brigade. “ She glanced at the sky, “Because here comes the Sikorsky.”

Cassandra left the shed to signal the pilot where to land, indicating a spot not more than 20 yards from the building the vehicles were being ushered into.

Xander parked his truck and climbed out, looking around the shed with barely disguised disdain. “Lovely, I just hope my truck doesn’t get stolen…” he muttered, hoping nobody could hear him.

Unfortunately for him, Spike heard him. “Harris, if your truck gets stolen, I’ll bloody well buy you a new one. Quit your goddamned belly-aching!” Spike snapped at the young man, his patience at an end after listening to him whine and moan for the better part of the last hour. “Now get your stuff and get your arse in gear!” Spike grabbed his duffle and strode over to where Buffy was watching the helicopter land. “I take it this is our ride?”

“Yeah, we’ll be taking this to L.A. where the jet is waiting for us.” Buffy replied, shooting the still chuckling Joyce a baleful glare. “As the comedy routine over there reminded me, this airstrip is too short.”

Spike turned and shot Joyce a questioning glance, only to receive a cheeky smile and a shrug in return. HE shrugged and turned back to Buffy. “I take it that Joyce and Cass were taking the piss huh?”

Buffy nodded sharply and then turned to holler at everyone. “Get your gear, we are moving.” She motioned towards the helicopter which had just touched down on the grass not far from the shed.

Everyone grabbed their bags and hurried across to the aircraft, where Methos helped everyone onboard. He turned back to see Buffy standing and staring off towards the road. “What’s wrong,” he shouted in order to be heard over the sound of the rotors.

Buffy suddenly darted towards the aircraft shouting, “Lift off NOW!” Methos jumped on board and held out a hand to help Buffy up, as the aircraft started to lift off. Buffy jumped up and caught Methos’ hand and clambered aboard.

“Council?” Methos inquired softly.

“Yeah, which leaves me wondering how they found us?” Buffy said and frowned. “Do you think it’s possible that they have trackers on their targets?”

“Anything is possible.” Methos said quietly, glancing around the heli. “Want me to get Cass to check for mystical trackers?” At Buffy’s nod, he walked over to where Cassandra was sitting and, in a low voice, informed her of the problem and then went forward to speak to the pilot.

While Cassandra was doing her thing, which just looked like she had closed her eyes, Buffy was silently running her eyes over everyone in the cabin, her mind racing with possibilities and ideas as to what the trackers might possibly be. She figured it had to be something they wore everyday, or almost everyday. No sense in having trackers placed in items that would sit on a table or dresser.

Cassandra opened her eyes and blinked a couple of times to focus on the here, instead of the ‘possibles’. She locked gazes with Buffy and shook her head. “I couldn’t sense anything tied to anyone here. It must be electronic.”

“Then I guess we search everyone individually, before we reach LAX,” Buffy stated firmly. She turned to the others and asked, “Does anyone have something, a watch, jewellery, or something else, that they wear everyday?”

Nobody moved, until Spike spoke, “Only 2 things I have with me almost all the time, my coat and my lighter.” He shrugged out of his coat and pulled his lighter from the front pocket of his jeans.

Just then Methos came back into the cabin carrying a small piece of equipment. He took this thing and passed it over the coat and the lighter, with no results. “Anyone else have anything,” he asked quietly, his dark eyes touching each person individually.

Joyce removed her necklace and passed it to him saying, “Just this, I haven’t taken it off since Mother gave it to me on my 16th birthday.”

Methos nodded and ran the device over the necklace just to be sure. “Its clean.”

“Excuse me, but what exactly are we looking for,” Giles asked, while rubbing his glasses.

Buffy looked at him and replied, “Several vehicles containing Council operatives arrived at the airstrip just as we were boarding the helicopter. Seeing as nobody else knew where we were going, it seems reasonable that someone has a tracking device on them. Cassandra has already checked for tracking spells and came up with nothing.”

Giles nodded and passed his glasses to Methos. “I had them repaired the other day. One of the screws kept falling out.”

Methos ran the device over the glasses and shook his head. “Nothing.” When nobody else moved he simply sighed and muttered, “I guess we do this the hard way.” He went up to each person and passed the device over them, with everyone coming up clean… until he reached Xander. The device started beeping as it was passed over the watch he was wearing, causing everyone to jump.

“What does that noise mean, Xander asked nervously.

“That noise means that an electronic tracking signal has been located in your watch, Mr. Harris,” Buffy said with a hard voice. “Kindly remove it and pass it here.

As Xander started to fuss and get indignant, Spike simply reached over and stripped the watch from Xander’s wrist, tossing it to Buffy.

“Hey! That’s my brand new watch!” Xander shouted in indignation.

Methos carefully pried the back of the watch off, and frowned. “Where did you get the watch?” He asked Xander as he peered into the inner workings.

“It was on the kitchen counter, wrapped up in shiny paper with my name on a tag.” Xander shrugged. “I assumed it was a present.”

“Do you know who gave it to you?” Buffy asked as she studied Xander’s face.

“No idea. The only name on it was mine.” Xander looked worried for a moment. “Do you think the Council…?” He trailed off in thought, his brow creasing.

“Well,” Methos said as he poked the inner workings of the watch with the tip of his pen. “I don’t think this is an actual watch. At least not any watch I have ever seen.” He looked over at Buffy. “It is my opinion that we get rid of it.”

Buffy nodded. “Pop it out the window. Let the council look for it wherever we are flying over.”

Xander sighed and muttered, “I liked that watch… it looked expensive…”

For the remainder of the flight to LAX, Xander sulked over the loss of his watch. He knew in his heart that it was best to be rid of it, if it was a council tracking device. But he also fumed over the cavalier treatment he had been getting in regards to his possessions. Forced to leave most of them behind, including his playboy collection for crying out loud! Then the issue with his truck and Spike snapping at him over his concern for it. Now his watch. What would he lose next?

While Xander sulked, everyone else chatted quietly or simply looked out the windows at the scenery passing below them. Time passed swiftly and in less than thirty minutes they were landing not far from a large Boeing 737 aircraft. The craft was painted in an ebon black with silver accent stripping and a realistic looking silver dragon on the tailfin.

An older man jogged out from under the belly of the plane and helped the group disembark. He gave Buffy a hug and grinned. “Everything is ready to go Lady Tueur. Not a peep from airport security, so I would say that you have managed to give those idiots the slip, for now.”

“Thanks Sam,” Buffy said as she returned the hug. “How are your grandkids?”

The group hurried across the tarmac as Buffy and Sam discussed his grandkids and what they were currently getting into trouble with. As the boarded the plane, Sam headed forward and Buffy ushered everyone into the main cabin.

You could hear jaws drop and eyes pop as the group from Sunnydale stared around them in awe. The seats were of Moroccan leather in a deep black and looked softer than a cloud. The deep pile carpet was a pale silvery grey that blended with the walls of the plane. Towards the rear of the cabin they noticed a partial wall made of silvered glass with a dark wood frame. This wall partially hid a full dining area with a small galley kitchen beyond. Giles summed it up when he uttered, “Bloody hell...” causing the rest of them to nod in stupefaction.

Playing tour guide Buffy pointed out the amenities, which included a 52” plasma TV complete with Blu-Ray player and games console in the main cabin. She walked past the dining area and into the small kitchen, mentioning the availability of several types of food and beverages. “Beyond the kitchen are two bathrooms, one of which has a shower. Just past those is the bedroom.” She grinned and turned to wink at Spike. “No silencing charms available, sorry.”

Methos and Cassandra shared a look and both rolled their eyes. Methos was the one to speak up. “I vote we NOT let them into the bedroom OR either of the bathrooms together.”

Joyce nodded in agreement. “Definitely.”

Just then a voice came over the cabin speakers. “If you would please take your seats and buckle in, we have been given clearance for takeoff. Everyone found a seat and buckled themselves in as the plane taxied for takeoff. They felt the plane gather speed and then lift into the air without even a jolt. After a few moments the pilot came back on the speakers. “Feel free to wander around the cabin; we will arrive at JFK in five hours for refuelling.” The five hours past swiftly as they talked about various things and watched a little TV. They buckled themselves in for the landing at JFK and sat through the refuelling which took less than hour. Shortly afterwards they were airborne once more. “Okay folks, next stop will be Heathrow in London. Flight time should be approximately eight hours, so get comfortable and enjoy the ride.”

Over the next eight hours, they watched movies, played a couple of video games and had something to eat. Two hours into the flight Buffy sent Dawn off to the bedroom for some sleep, as the young girl was yawning and rubbing her eyes. By the time they landed in London, Xander had devoured half his bodyweight in cheesies and Doritos and smelt like he hadn’t bathed in a week. Everyone else was grouchy and just wanting off the plane. They were all starting to get cabin fever, and wanting time away from everyone else.

Buffy led them past the security checkpoints, smiling and greeting those that she recognized and nodding politely to those that she didn’t. As they each presented their passports and identification to the security people, they all noticed the deference Buffy was being shown.

“Mom, why is everyone falling all over themselves for Buffy?” Dawn asked in a whisper to her mother.

Joyce simply smiled and replied, “It’s simply because of who she is dear.”

This was brought to everyone’s attention as they were stopped at the exit from the Suite by an older man in uniform. “If Her Ladyship will wait but a moment, Doug is bringing the car around.”

Buffy nodded and smiled, “Thank you Reg. Nice to see you again.” She simply giggled at the look of patient fondness in the man’s eyes. She motioned Dawn forwards and introduced her to Reg. “This is my granddaughter, Dawn. I expect now that she knows about the jet, she’ll be a frequent visitor here.”

Reg took Dawn’s hand in his and bowed over it saying, “Welcome to England Miss Dawn. I hope your stay here is everything you imagined it to be.”

Dawn blushed and quietly thanked Reg, then hid behind Buffy, looking shy and more than a little overwhelmed.

Just then, the car pulled up and Buffy motioned for everyone to get inside. She motioned Doug to one side and informed him of a possible altercation. Doug nodded and told Buffy that Elvara had warned him earlier that there might be trouble. Buffy nodded and slipped into the car, pulling the door shut behind her. She settled back into the seat as the car began to move.

The cars pulled onto the Heathrow service Road. This was one of the most dangerous parts of the journey. Traffic wasn't as heavy as Buffy had been expecting as she checked all around them. Pulling through the security gates she could hear the sound of plane engines taxiing up and down the various runways. Dawnie was busy looking out of the window, excited to be visiting Britain, Giles was still in shock over the ease they had all gone through customs and immigration and the fact that they had landed at the Royal Suite. Spike had rolled down the window of the car to watch the sunshine; the smile on his face was priceless.
The roar of engines was getting louder instead of softer. Spike looked up at Buffy. She was loosening her knife in its scabbard, checking her sword.

“Doug, defensive driving” the chauffeur nodded in reply, motioning for Clem to make sure his seat belt was secure.

Joyce looked in askance to her mother. “He's security trained, he'll get us through.” Buffy explained.

The roar was almost upon them when Buffy relaxed. “Stand down, it’s OK. Elvara has sent the boys.”

The car was surrounded by high powered bikes. As the first ones over took, Spike took note of the colors the bikers were wearing. 'Slayer' was emblazoned across their backs; the 'l' was a sword, a perfect copy of the one Buffy carried.

One of the bikes through a vial at the car, Spike turned to see the same thing happening behind them. He could feel wards go up over the car and grinned. That's some witch you have working for you. To be able to hide a moving vehicle. Not easy normally they have to be anchored to the earth.

“Elvara's not a witch.” Joyce said as she watched Dawn start to doze. “Never practiced magic in her life”

The bikes rode escort all the way through into London, only breaking off as the house came into view. Buffy breathed a sigh of relief, they were home.

Spike looked out the car window, a bored expression on his face, not wanting to show that he was impressed with what he was seeing. He almost gasped out loud when the flag for the German Embassy came into view. ‘Are we where I think we are?’ he asked himself. Then he saw a sign indicating the entrance to the park across the street. ‘Yup, we are indeed. Wonder how far from the park this house of Buffy’s is…’ He continued his internal conversation with himself, engrossed to the point he didn’t notice the car slow down and come to a stop. He did however hear Rupert’s soft exclamation and then Xander’s loud comment.

“You brought us all the way to London, just to stash us in a hotel?” Xander snorted indignantly. “Could have just left us in the States if that’s the case.”

Joyce gave Xander an icy glare then turned to Buffy with excitement. “You brought us home! Oh I have so wanted to show Dawn where I grew up!” Joyce was practically bouncing in her seat with joy.

Methos reached out and slapped Xander on the back of the head, “Until you know what is going on, keep your mouth shut and listen to those who do know. You might actually learn something.” That said Methos slipped from the car and turned to help Buffy out.

The front door opened and seven people came outside to welcome them. The three younger males went and unloaded the luggage from the boot, and carried it into the house. This left two young girls, one who looked to be around Dawn’s age, the other older, and an older couple. The older lady had a smile on her face and seemed to almost quiver from excitement. The man with her had a solemn expression adorning his features, his eyes watchful and almost distrusting.

Buffy let Methos help her from the car, and then ran over to the lady and embraced her in an enthusiastic hug. “It’s so good to see you Elvara!” Buffy exclaimed as she pulled back from the woman, her eyes shining with joy. “You haven’t changed, still the same vibrant girl I know and love.” She winked at Elvara and grinned. “You simply must introduce me to the gentleman standing behind you. He looks like someone I would enjoy beating to a pulp if he upset you in anyway.”

Elvara laughed, the joyous sound ringing out across the square, causing those on the street to pause and look at around for the cause. “Bebee, you are always the same. Looking to cause trouble, and usually finding it.” She stepped back from Buffy and placed a hand on the gentleman’s arm. “This is my Soturi, Haakon.” She grinned as Haakon afforded Buffy a deep bow.

“Tis a pleasure to make your acquaintance, Lady Elizabetta. Elvara has told me much of you.” Haakon relaxed a little, knowing that his Elvara’s guardian would not have brought any great danger to the house. His attention was caught by the conversation between the bleached blonde and the older British gentleman, a chuckle issuing from his throat.

Spike was laughing at the expression on Giles' face as he looked around him. He couldn’t help but notice that the man had a look of disbelief in his eyes.

Giles glared at Spike, “I don’t see what is so bloody funny you prat. Do you know where we are?” Giles glanced across the street at the flag flying above the entrance to the building there. “That’s the bloody Portuguese Embassy!” He shook his head, trying to make sense of it all.

“Yup, and we are currently standing in the drive of 12 Belgrave Square. Long-time residence of the Countess of Hereford. I believe it’s the only building on this square that is still a private residence.” Spike replied with a grin. “Beats me why Buffy brought us here, but she must have had reasons.”

Giles was still exhibiting signs of shock, which was further deepened when Methos calmly stated, “Where else would Mother bring us, this is after all her home.” He then casually walked over and embraced Elvara, “Long time no see little sister.”

Cassandra brushed past the still-stunned Giles and the grinning Spike to approach the two younger girls. She enveloped them both into a double hug and pulled back, ruffling their hair. “How are my favourite sprites doing? Excited to meet your cousin?” As Cassandra spoke, Dawn slowly approached them. “Well, here she is!” Cassandra grabbed Dawn and introduced her to the other girls.

Joyce darted up and grabbed Elvara away from Methos, hugging her in a very tight embrace. Both ladies started jumping up and down, squealing like a couple of teenage girls at a rock concert.

Just as Joyce and Elvara were greeting each other, Xander, having stood back and watched the goings on, grinned as his eyes landed on the elder of the two girls with Dawn and Cassandra. He approached her, beckoning her closer. His eyes lit up as she came closer, thinking to himself that he was in luck. Xander leaned down and whispered something in the girl’s ear, causing her to jerk back in shock, an expression of disgust on her face. Before anyone else could do anything, one of the young men that had taken the bags inside, reappeared as if from nowhere, his hand wrapped around Xander’s throat, a low growl issuing from his lips.

Buffy, startled by the reappearance of the young man, and his apparent attack on Xander, moved to intercept, until she caught the words the young man was saying.

“If you EVER say such to her again, or any other girl, within my hearing, I shall rip you limb from limb and leave your carcass to the carrion birds.”

The young girl, still with that expression of disgust on her face, place a slender hand on the young man’s arm. “Let him go Wolf, let Elizabetta deal with him. She did bring him here after all.” That said, she walked over to Buffy and in a low voice told her exactly what Xander had said.

With a snarl on her face, Buffy approached Xander and motioned for Wolf to let him go. She then proceeded to backhand Xander hard enough to cause him to fall to the ground. Before Xander could say anything, he found Buffy’s sword once more pointed at his throat. “Xander, I don’t know what has gotten into you, considering how you acted when that asshole Angel said something similar about Dawn, but if you think such is acceptable, then I will leave your corpse tacked to the main doors of the Council Headquarters. Nordlys is one of my granddaughters AND is not of an age for such as you suggested.” Sheathing her sword with a flourish, she turned her back on Xander and growled to Methos, “Take him in hand, teach the whelp some damned manners, before I loose what little temper I have left.” So saying, Buffy wrapped an arm around Nordlys and walked into the house, leaving the rest to follow as they would.

Anya, Willow and Tara, having exited the car just in time to hear Buffy words, glared at Xander with disgust. Turning away from him, they entered the house gazing around in awe at the décor of the entrance hall. Spike and Giles escorted Cassandra, Dawn and the younger girl, who introduced herself as Katla, into the house and away from the glowering Methos. They were trailed by the agitated man called Wolf, who kept glaring daggers at Xander. Haakon offered both Elvara and Joyce an arm and escorted them into the house just in time to hear Giles’ exlaimation.

“Bloody Hell; is that a painting of you Buffy?” Giles exclaimed, approaching the portrait that was displayed between the sweeping arms of the grand staircase. “Looks like it was done during the early Victorian period, based on the dress and accoutrements.” He studied the painting, lost in thought.

Spike walked over and slapped Giles on the back, “I guess that clears up the whole ‘Ladyship’ business at the airport, huh Rupes?” He then turned to Buffy and said in a low voice, “Why didn’t you tell me, Love?”

“To be honest Spike, it never crossed my mind. It’s just something that is. Something that I have been for years.” Buffy shrugged. “It meant more in earlier times, than it does now.”

Elvara interrupted the conversation with a polite cough. “Bebee, I’ve prepared rooms for your guests, mayhap it would be prudent to retire for the rest of the evening and start fresh in the morning? I know my girls are past ready to sleep.” She glanced around and grinned when she noticed the two Wicca’s nodding in agreement with her. “Katla, Fahr if you would show the ladies to the green suite, and then retire?” Katla and the young man named Fahr nodded and escorted the wiccans up the stairs. “Methos, your room is ready for you and your Lady. I’ve put the young man beside you in the room next to yours, Ritchie is on the other side of him. I trust between the two of you, you can keep him away from the Mews house?” Methos bowed in acknowledgement of Elvara’s words and yanked Xander up the stairs and in the opposite direction that the Wiccans had gone. She turned to Anya and smiled, “Nordlys and Wolf will show you to your suite my dear. Anya nodded and followed the two young people up the stairs.
Buffy smiled and hugged Elvara. “What would I do without you to organize this place?”

Elvara shrugged and replied, “You would make Methos do the cooking and browbeat Ritchie into doing the cleaning?” The two shared a laugh as Methos’ voice floated down from the third floor landing “I heard that!”

Haakon approached Giles and said, “If you would follow me, I will show you to your suite. You look dead on your feet, if you will pardon me for saying.” When Giles looked about to argue he laughed and continued, “Lady Elizabetta’s painting will still be here in the morning.” So saying he led Giles up the stairs to the third floor as well.

Elvara turned to Joyce, “Your room is just as you left it, I took the liberty of putting Dawn in the room across the hall. It overlooks the garden and should be quiet for her to sleep.”

Joyce smiled and hugged Elvara before grabbing Dawn by the hand and leading her up the stairs, whispering a goodnight to everyone left in the hall.

Buffy stepped back from Elvara as Haakon came down the stairs and wrapped his arms around her. “You and your soturi should round up the young ones and head to bed. I know the way to my room and Spike will be staying with me…” she trailed off as Spike wrapped his arms around her from behind and nuzzled her neck. “Like he would go anywhere else.”

Haakon and Spike shared a look that spoke volumes of the feelings they had for the women in their arms. They were in perfect understanding as the two couples parted, Elvara and her soturi heading out the back to the Mews house, while Buffy led Spike up the stairs to the Grand Suite.

The house became quiet, as everyone sheltered within its walls drifted off into slumber.





Translations

Bebee – Aunt
Soturi – Warrior

Giles awoke, rubbing his eyes and sitting up. He was momentarily confused as to where he was. Then he recalled the long flight across the Atlantic and their arrival at Buffy’s home in London. He shook his head as he pondered the implications of what he had learned on their arrival. “Well, I guess we couldn’t be in a safer location, seeing as Belgrave has a lot of foreign dignitaries coming and going. The security must be impeccable.” He stood and stretched, walking to the window and glancing out. He noticed that his room overlooked the garden between the main house and the Mews. A glimmer of light below him caught his eye and he glanced down, spotting the shimmer of dim lighting playing over water. “They have a pool…” he muttered to himself. Giles turned to his bag and dug through it, before remembering that he hadn’t thought to pack a swimming suit. “Bugger. I wonder…” he trailed off as he began opening doors and drawers, thinking it might be a futile search, until he found a pair of swim trunks, still with the store tags attached, laying in a dresser drawer. “Old fashioned manners and blue-blooded guesting etiquette…” he chuckled to himself, “it’s good to be back in England amongst people with proper manners.” He donned the trunks and slipped into the towelling robe that he had found hanging on the back of the ensuite door. Opening his door, he quietly made his way down the hall to the stairs, and then down to the main floor. Pausing in entrance hall, he determined to find the rear stairs on his way back, as it was impolite, as a guest, to wander the house in his robe.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Anya lay on her back, staring up at the ceiling. Even though it had been a long and tiring trip, she was having trouble sleeping. Her mind kept going over Xander’s recent behaviour. She was having trouble reconciling the man she loved and the strange person who had seemingly replaced him. Ever since the attacks on Giles and themselves back in Sunnydale he had been acting really strange, almost like he was trying to hide something. She sat up with a start. “Not hiding something,” she thought, “It is as if he had regressed back to the insensitive idiot he had been in high school.” She shook her head, thinking for a moment. “Not only insensitive, but very insecure. I bet he’s scared of what’s happening.”

Glancing at the clock on the bedside table, she noticed that it was just past five in the morning. Shrugging to herself she slipped out of bed and dressed. The sun would be up soon and there was no point in staying in bed. She wondered if anyone else was up, maybe Giles was awake, she needed to tell him what she thought was happening with Xander. She missed having his warm body lying next to her, which more than likely had contributed to her inability to sleep. “How did Elvara know that I had banned Xander from my bed because of his attitude?” Anya asked herself as she slipped out the door and wander down the hall in the opposite direction she had come from last night. Finding the rear staircase, she followed it downstairs and paused beside a glass door. Glancing in, her jaw dropped open and she stared appreciatively.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Giles stripped off the towelling robe, laid it on one of the chairs and dived into the clear water of the swimming pool, managing nearly a whole length before surfacing. It was early, the clock on the wall showing just after 5 in the morning, and he was half awake, the jetlag having thrown his internal clock completely out of whack. He was hoping that the swim would wake him up properly to face the day. He needed something, besides the whiskey he would have had if he was home. The last few days had been one shock right after the other, and ending up in this luxury mansion was just the icing on the cake.

The great glass doors that led into the enclosed garden slid open and Haakon came into the pool room. Giles knew the man shared the Mews house across the back garden with Elvara and her daughters, and he assumed that is where the two young men stayed as well. There was something almost preternatural about the man, although Spike had mentioned that he felt completely human. Giles observed quietly as the dark-haired Viking made his way across the tiled floor, dropping his own towelling robe across one of the tables before diving into the water.

Giles took a deep, unneeded breath. The man’s entire body was almost completely covered in tattoos. He looked like the sort of person Dawn would have a poster of on her walls, but Giles didn’t think any wanna-be pop star would carry the tattoos of the Temple at Uppsala on his body. Giles felt a ripple of jealousy tear through his body. Everything he, as Ripper, had wanted to be, this man was. He had to be a powerful Mage in his own right to carry the Goddess’ mark, and here he was, working for Buffy, serving Elvara. Giles knew he was going to have to reconsider his first impressions.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Anya’s eyes followed the man’s every move, his muscles rippling under his skin as he used his great strength against the strong current at the end of the pool that a swim-gym had been installed in. She was decidedly enjoying the view. Glancing over at Giles, she wasn’t sure if he knew she was there, but Haakon certainly did. He had stared at her hard before diving into the pool. Anya knew she was with Xander, even if she had banned him from her bed, but she did appreciate the sight of a finely toned body. The man had an eight-pack, never mind a six-pack! His physique could be used to give anatomy lectures or even as the model for classical nude sculptures. Anya licked her lips. She would never upset Buffy or Elvara by poaching, they wouldn’t need any help from a vengeance demon to hurt her if she did, but she knew they wouldn’t mind if she appreciated his fine form. Taking a deep breath, she noticed the scents of freshly brewed coffee and baking bread floating on the air, and she turned towards where they were coming from.

Following the smell, she made her way to huge kitchen where Elvara was already busy, despite the clock reading only half past five.

“Coffee’s fresh, if that’s what you’re after,” a voice called out from the back of the room.

Anya poured herself a mug before going over to say hello.

Elvara was inside the huge walk-in freezer, sorting out great cardboard boxes of meat that were piled high on the floor. Plastic chests lined the walls, all carefully marked with their contents. Sirloins, stewing beef, venison roasts, whole chickens as well as breasts. It was like walking into a meat shop. Elvara herself was heaving another box onto a shelf. It read ‘Rib Roasts (Beef)’. “Did you sleep well?” she asked Anya, squatting down to check another box against a list that was attached to a clipboard. Her hair slipped from the messy bun it had been pinned in, covering her face completely. It actually brushed the floor when she was on her knees, it was so long.

“As well as to be expected, thank you. Is there anything I can do to help?” Any asked. “There seems to be a lot of stuff.”

“I’m fine, thanks” Elvara smiled, taking the sting out of her refusal. “This lot just came down from the estate at Midmar. We have our own farm there; it supplies all of the meat for the house.” She placed huge gammons and packs of sausages onto the appropriate shelves. “I thought with all the extra guests we have, as well as the carnivores, I had better stock up. Those boys can eat their way through half a bovine when they’re left to it, and Methos loves a home cooked roast. She counted out packets of blood and put them into a set of baskets, making sure they were clearly marked.

The job seemed finished as Elvara picked up the empty and flattened cardboard boxes and made her way out of the freezer. Slipping off the jacket she had been wearing, and putting the gloves up on a shelf, she hooked the clipboard onto a peg before stacking the cardboard neatly nearby. She twisted her hair up again, and pinned it back. As she did so, Anya’s attention was drawn to the tattoos on Elvara’s back and shoulders. The halter-necked dress she was wearing, framing them perfectly.

“You’re temple marked!” Anya exclaimed.

Elvara turned to look at Anya, straight in the eye. “You know what they mean, not many do.” It was a statement rather than a question.

Anya just nodded, the normally outspoken woman almost too shocked to speak. “No wonder your daughters are so serene and nothing surprised you.” With her usual lack of tact, she blurted out, “What rank?”

Elvara moved the straps of her dress aside and there, hidden beneath them, were the full spread of moons as well as the tree of life.

Anya gasped, and said “D’Hoffryn wondered where the High Priestess had hidden herself. He wanted to offer you vengeance against the Watcher’s you know.”

“I knew, but it wouldn’t have been right.” A pleading look entered Elvara’s eyes. “Please don’t say anything to the young witches or the boy. They wouldn’t understand.”

Anya nodded, “I won’t say a word, but can I ask you something?”

“Anything Aud.” Elvara smiled as she used Anya’s original name.

“Haakon, does he give really good orgasms?” Anya asked in her forthright manner.

Elvara burst out laughing. “Oh yes, he certainly does.” She was still laughing when the two swimmers joined them in the kitchen.

Spike awoke to sunlight streaming through the massive double windows that graced the far side of the room. He instinctively grabbed for the quilt, intending to make a dash to less sun-filled room, when he realized he was actually sitting in a pool of sunlight, without burning to ash. “Oh I missed this…” he trailed off as thoughts of the sundrenched bedroom of his childhood streamed passed his conscious mind. He was so lost in both the memories and the feeling of the warmth of the sun, that he missed the presence of his bed partner.

Buffy smiled as she watched Spike’s face. She could almost see the thoughts dancing in his mind, and realized that she wanted to spend the rest of her existence waking up to a similar sight. A look of surprise passed across her features, almost too quick to be seen, before she settled into a deep contemplation of her feelings. It only took her a few moments to realize that, after many centuries of being alone, she had found the one person who completed her. A giggle passed her lips as she recognized the irony of it. “Who would have thought that the Elders had such a sense of humor…” she whispered to herself.

“What’s that pet?” Spike asked turning to face her as his sharp hearing picked up her whispered comment. His eyes darkened with desire at the sight of her toned body reclining on the dark blue silk sheets, the sunlight picking out golden highlights in her hair.

“Oh was just thinking about something rather ironic.” Buffy said with a soft smile, her fingers plucking at a fold in the sheet.

Sliding his body over hers, a smirk on his lips, he arched one eyebrow at her in question. “And what would this ironic thing be?” With a subtle nudge of his legs, he part Buffy’s thighs and settled himself between her legs, his burgeoning arousal resting against her core.

Buffy moaned softly as his gentle actions sent arousal dancing along her nerves. “I was just looking at you, watching expressions as various thoughts seemed to dance in your eyes, and…” she trailed off as Spike traced a fingertip along the arch of her right eyebrow.

“And?” He prompted, pressing a soft kiss to the tip of her nose. “Tell me what’s running through your pretty head, love.” He pressed the lower half of his body into hers more, propping himself up on his elbows, leaving his hands free to play in her hair.

Buffy smiled up at him and grinned, “And I realized that I could spend the rest of my life waking up to that same sight.” Her eyes dropped, focusing on Spike’s mouth, as he threaded the fingers of both hands into her hair. “Made me realize that I’m happy, with you…” her voice softened as she leaned up to press a gentle kiss to Spike’s lips. “Happier than I can ever remember being.”

“And this is ironic?” Spike said, his left hand sliding down her body to cup and fondle her right breast.

Buffy arched into his touch, gasping at the sensations his talented fingers raised in her. “No… that’s not the ironic part…” Her own fingers traced up and down his spine, mapping the solid planes of his back.

Spike softly stroked his fingers down Buffy’s body, slipping between them to stroke her clit, causing her to arch against him with a moan. He raised himself up until he was kneeling between Buffy’s spread thighs. With a wicked grin he slipped his fingers down to trace through her wetness, sliding them inside her tight core. “Or is this the ironic part?” He pulled his fingers out and thrust them back in sharply, drawing a sharp gasp from Buffy, her eyes rolling into her head.

“Huh?” Buffy asked, her brain having shut down from the overload of sensations. “Was I saying something?” A mischievous light entered her eyes as her brain re-engaged. She squeaked in surprise as Spike shifted to his vampiric visage, the fingers of his left hand buried deep inside her.

“Two can play at that game Slayer,” Spike growled as he sharply pulled his fingers from core and grasped his cock firmly at the base. With a smirk he slapped his cockhead against her clit, drawing more moans and gasps from her. “Tell me what you were thinking of, and why it’s ironic that these ‘Elders’ of yours have a sense of humor.” He placed the head of his cock at the entrance to her body and wrapped his hands around her waist.

Buffy wrapped his hands around his wrists, her eyes locked with his. “The Elder’s used me to create the Slayer line, to create a line of warriors to kill your kind.” Her voice became softer and yet more serious. “And yet I find myself feeling happy and complete when I am with you.” She arched up against him, feeling his erection slip just a little inside of her. “Don’t you think it ironic that the one person who completes me… is one of those my ‘spirit children’ were sent out to destroy?”

Spike blinked in shock, his mind grasping the implications of her statement. Then he grinned, “Oh I’ll complete you alright Slayer...” he said as he used the hands on her waist to pull her sharply towards him, shoving forwards with his hips at the same time, burying his full length inside her with one thrust.

Buffy screamed with pleasure as he slammed into her, her nails digging into his wrists. “Oh gods yes, you complete me so damned good…” she panted. Tossing her head back she gasped with each deep, hard thrust Spike made. Releasing his wrists, Buffy reached up and grabbed his shoulders, yanking him down to her and smashing her lips to his, not caring about his fang-filled mouth.

Spike fell forward on top of Buffy, his hips slamming into hers, driving his cock even deeper, the scream that issued forth from her mouth, muffled against his own. He felt her slice her tongue on one of his fangs and growled as her blood filled his mouth. After swallowing the blood, he ripped his mouth away and let out a loud growl, his burning yellow eyes boring into hers. “I have wanted you from the moment I laid eyes on you in that cemetery in Sunnydale. “ He pulled out and thrust back in hard and deep. “That first night, you fell asleep in my arms, and I felt warm, needed, complete, for the first time since I can remember.” He paused at the bottom of his stroke, buried deep inside her, and lowered his head to brush his lips across hers. “I was willing to take whatever you were willing to give me.” He smiled softly. “Still am.” He would have continued but Buffy interrupted him gently.

“And if I said that I am willing to give you everything? Share with you everything that I am now and will ever be?” She looked up into his eyes and brushed her hand gently down his face. “If I ask you to share forever with me?”

“I would say I am the luckiest bloke in the entire world, and if I wasn’t otherwise engaged at this moment, I would fall on my knees in front of you.” He slowed his thrusts to a gentler pace traced her cheekbones with his thumbs.

Buffy linked her fingers together behind Spike’s neck and bared her throat. “Then take me, make me yours and I shall do the same. We shall declare to each other and to our family and friends that we are one.” She pulled his head gently downwards.

Spike’s eyes widened and he let loose a rumbling purr from deep within his chest, as his demon rejoiced in the fact that the Slayer actually wanted him… all of him! He began driving his cock harder and faster into the tight, writhing body beneath him. He knew he was fast approaching his peak and was determined to drive Buffy over the edge with him. As he felt his balls tighten and draw up, he growled low in her ear, “MINE”, and sank his fangs deep into her throat.

As Spike’s fangs ripped into her throat, Buffy felt herself fly over the precipice she had been fast approaching. She screamed out in a combination of pleasure and pain, “YOURS!” and felt him flood her with his cool spendings. Neither one of them noticing the flare of silver light that burst forth from them and filled the room.

Outside the room, the rest of the house’s occupants were startled by the flare of bright silver light. Most of them looked at each other in confusion, not knowing where it came from. Only one, Elvara, smiled with the knowledge that something momentous had just happened.

After the wave of energy that had passed through the house, things seemed to quiet down. Elvara made a light lunch for everyone and watched in bemusement as they all seemed to drift into little groups. The two Wiccans and Anya were off exploring the neighborhood, having conned Giles into accompanying them. Methos and Ritchie had confiscated the boy, and along with the other two young men, were having a serious discussion in the games room. Oddly enough it seemed to involve the snooker table.

After Spike and Buffy had come downstairs, Spike had appropriated Haakon and the girls, and took them into the garden for some ‘fun in the sun’. From what she could see, it involved the three girls chasing the men with a water hose. Cassandra and Buffy had wandered off to the media room and were watching the news. She wondered where Joyce had gotten herself off to, and the shrugged before heading up to the library on the second floor. It was time to pack up the school bags for Monday.

Shortly afterwards Joyce appeared in the doorway, carrying a couple of bottles of wine and 2 glasses. “Enough, sister of mine. You have got to tell me about that gorgeous man you are living with. Where did you meet him and what has happened to Alun?” Joyce demanded with a laugh as she poured the wine into the glasses and sat down on one of the leather sofas.

Elvara took one of the glasses and sat in the matching leather chair. “Alun took exception, yet again, to me working for the temple. He wanted me to give up that part of my life.”

Joyce quirked one eyebrow. “But I thought he had been raised in the faith?”

Elvara sighed. “He had, but his mother had converted out of the faith and saw me as a wicked, fallen woman. She put a lot of pressure on him and he capitulated. I wanted to go up for the Moot and he refused to let me. He wouldn’t accept Katla, said he didn’t want another child and walked out on me when I was six months pregnant with her. He has never even seen her.”

“Oh honey I am so sorry. Why didn’t you call me?” Joyce said as she looked at Elvara with sympathy brimming in her eyes.

Elvara gave a soft snort and wry smile. “Because you were going through shit with Hank at the time and I didn’t want to add to it.”

Joyce grabbed Elvara and pulled her into a hug, holding her close as they renewed the sisterly bond between them. Pulling back she wiggled her eyebrows and asked, “And Haakon?”

“I went to the Moot. The elders were very apologetic about Alun.” She laughed wryly.

“I bet they were,” Joyce snorted. “They introduced you.”

“Well, I have been going back every time since, and loving it.” Elvara drained her wine glass and sighed.

Joyce topped up their wine glasses again with a giggle.

Elvara continued, “So eight years ago I was asked to lead the ceremony to Sunna, and I’ve been doing it ever since…”

“And Haakon? Come on, spill sister mine.” Joyce prompted.

“Four years ago, I went with the girls. We had such an amazing time. They had organized a nanny to keep the girls happy and to give me a little time to myself. I was leading the evening prayers when I found out they had re-started the competitions to declare a champion of the Moot; and I went down to watch. Haakon was one of the competitors. He was stripped to the waist, wrestling, when I first saw him, and he won.” Elvara said with a smile. “So the next morning, before dawn, I went into the stones to light the fire and start the moot. As I dropped my cloak, we were doing it properly, sky clad. Anyway, he picked it up and carried it for me. After I had made the blood offering as the sun had appeared over the horizon, I led the priestesses back towards the camp. He was waiting outside the circle and wrapped me in my cloak. Then he just vanished.

Joyce grinned. “Nicely done.”

“Oh it was. It would have had me looking for him for most of the day, but I was busy with the elders. That evening he was back, amongst the escort taking up for the celebration of Mani, the moon, you know?” Elvara giggled.

“Just seen enough to get you interested?” Joyce asked with a grin.

“You know me so well… that night, after moonrise, there was a huge fire lit and people were sitting around telling stories. He was there again, and I just couldn’t keep my eyes to myself.” Elvara said with a light blush.

“And? Come on. You are killing me with suspense here.” Joyce griped good-naturedly.

“He won the championship and I presented the prize.” Elvara blushed a little more. “He claimed the kiss. I still blush at the thought of it, as you can see. And Nordlys saw the whole thing. She has never let me forget it either.” Elvara gave a soft laugh. “You would have thought it was a festival to Frey and Freya rather than to the sun and moon. The elders told me later that he had volunteered to be my escort home.”

“And he never left.” Joyce stated softly.

“And he never left.” Elvara agreed a soft smile on her face as she drifted into her memories.

~*~*~*~ FLASHBACK (written by Jamies_Lady) ~*~*~*~

Haakon slipped a couple of twenties into the taxi drivers hand before putting his arms around Nordlys and lifting her up. The girl was still clinging tightly to the stuffed dinosaur he had won for her at the fair, but her head flopped onto his shoulder, she was fast asleep. Elvara was already opening up the door, supporting Katla with one arm as she wrestled with the door handle. Using her hip to push it open, she held it on one foot as Haakon made his way past her carrying the older girl.

Popping the girls into their beds, Elvara slipped off their shoes and tried to separate them from the stuffed toys, but had no luck at all. Nordlys was not letting go of her brontosaurus, and Katla had a death grip on the panther that was clutched under her arm.

“We can change the sheets and give them a bath in the morning. They’ve had a wonderful time and are exhausted. One night won’t hurt.” Elvara said as she turned out the main light and checked that the little nightlight was glowing, showing its little family of hedgehogs.

Haakon watched as Elvara kissed her two daughters on the forehead, smoothing long hair out of the way, before heading out the door. There was something about the way the woman loved her children that spoke straight to his own heart, she was an amazing mother. He followed her downstairs to the kitchen, accepting the glass of red wine that she offered him. The Clos Vougeot Grand Cru 2006 Domaine Meo-Camuzet was over £150 a bottle, but it was like drinking liquid velvet, and perfect after the busy day they had enjoyed.

Haakon had escorted Elvara and her family to the Winter Faire in Hyde Park. It had been an incredible experience, for the first time since he’d moved in, he had felt like was part of the family. He had gone on the carousels with the girls, taken them all up on the big wheel, they had been a family. There had been hot chestnuts and candy floss. They had had two sugared-up girls that had loved skating on the ice rink and had managed to sit through the circus. Nordlys hadn’t liked the clowns, they had scared her. Should he have enjoyed having Nordlys hide her face in his arm? It felt so right, so perfect. He had been given a glimpse of heaven. Of what could have been, or still might be.

Now, he was sitting by a fire, watching as Elvara wrapped some more presents up. She’d already sent hampers off to his blood family in Finland, and to friends in America, now she was wrapping up parcels for the girls. Haakon had never seen someone take so much pleasure in the preparations for the Solstice season. The tree had been delivered a couple of days previous and he had spent a wonderful day with girls helping her decorate both it and the house. Lifting Katla up high to put the figure of the One-Eyed Traveler on the top was sublime.

The lights sparkling on the tree were highlighting the red in Elvara’s hair as she fought with the sticky tape that was refusing to cooperate. She finally got the book wrapped and added it to the stack under the tree. So many gifts for two adored little girls. Nothing from their father of course, he had completely cut off all contact years ago. Elvara had talked to him a little about her first Guardian. The man had shamed himself with his actions.
“Have we plans for next week at all?” Haakon asked as Elvara finally joined him in front of the fire. “They are having a party at the Dojo and all the instructors are supposed to be there.” Haakon had been spending time teaching self defense at the local gym, he found it helped keep him centered.

“The only thing I have tickets for is the ballet on Thursday. I’m taking the girls to see The Nutcracker. After that, there is nothing booked until January.” Elvara said as she waved her glass in the hopes he would top it up.

Haakon laughed as she looked up at him. He topped up both glasses before asking, “So you are fine with me going out on Friday then?”

“It’s fine. Have a nice time.” Elvara’s eyes flashed with mischief. “I’ve seen some of the women there. Make sure you take plenty of mistletoe.” The puzzlement on Haakon’s face made her grin. “It’s traditional to kiss underneath it here as well.”

“You mean Freya’s magic works here?” Haakon asked with a puzzled look.

“Shall we find out?” Elvara asked as she reached into the box of greenery they had yet to hang. She pulled out a branch laden with berries and held it up between them.

Haakon stared at it for a couple of seconds before leaning in and kissing her gently on the lips, pouring all his passion and desire into the caress.

Elvara shuddered, Haakon was lighting a fire she didn’t think could ever be put out. Pulling back slightly, she looked deep into his piercing green eyes, seeking reassurance that this wasn’t some sort of joke. “Do you want me?’ she asked, her insecurities showing.

Haakon smiled and took the glass out of her hand, nodding as he did so. “This much,” he told her, placing his hand on the rapidly swelling bulge in his trousers.

“Alun never did. I couldn’t go through that again,” she whispered, looking away, not wanting this incredible man to see the pain in her eyes.

“Then he was a fool.” Haakon said as he silenced her fears with another kiss, weaving his fingers through her long hair and pulling their bodies as close as he could. Elvara wrapped her arms around his shoulders, reveling in the strength she found there. She was almost sitting on his lap, when he flipped them both over and she founder herself lying on the rug in front of the fire.

Haakon kissed his way down her neck and cross her clavicle. His long fingers started to undo the buttons on her blouse, hi long hair falling forward and brushing her sensitive skin. “Do you want me to stop?” he asked gently, not sure if he was worried she’d say yes, or no.

Elvara shook her head. “Don’t stop. I haven’t… I mean, it’s been years.”

Haakon kissed her lips gently to show his understanding. He knelt back onto his heels and undid his own shirt, slipping it off over his head. “Fair is fair,” he said as he returned to undoing her blouse. Tiny pearls slipped through silk-stitched holes as he undid each button. As each piece of flesh became visible, he placed a kiss on it. It took seven kisses to have the whole garment undone. Beneath it Elvara wore a corset, the gold studs down the front of the busk glittering in the firelight, and reflecting back a rainbow of colors from the lights on the tree. He carefully undid the corset as well. “Beautiful,” he said as she was finally revealed to his eyes. He took in the beauty of the woman laid out before him and wondered how anyone could reject her.

Elvara felt beautiful when she saw the expression on his face. She scratched lightly down his chest with her nails, causing him to shudder and arch backwards. She moaned as his hard, denim-entrapped cock came into contact with the juncture of her thighs. The soft velvet of her skirt only adding to the sensations she was feeling. She whimpered as she followed the muscles down his abdomen with her fingers. The hardened muscles pointed like an arrow to his manhood, a scattering of dark hair outlining the path her fingers were taking.

Haakon looked down at her and felt himself harden even more, if that was possible, at the sight of her hooded eyes and lust-filled expression.

Elvara’s nimble fingers found the buckle on his belt, then the buttons on his fly and undid them as quickly as she could, pushing the jeans off his hips. His cock sprang free of its prison, already dripping precum from its tip. She traced the slit carefully with one of her nails, causing Haakon to push her shoulders down flat to the elk skin rug she was laying on.

Haakon began undoing the buttons down the length of her skirt, slipping them free as quickly as he could. For every button he undid, he pressed a kiss to the flesh below it. He knew he should take his time, make this good for her, but he was feeling his own lust rise and knew he didn’t have the patience. He pulled her panties down and off, carefully stuffing them in his jeans pocket before he slithered out of his jeans completely. They both lay there naked, firelight highlighting their bodies, casting shadows of them on the wall. He kissed her again, his tongue begging for entrance as his worked their way up her body. The wonderful curve of her hips and belly made him desperate for more. Settling himself into the cradle of her thighs, he supported his weight on his forearms as he continued to kiss her.

Elvara had never seen anything as erotic as this gorgeous naked man above her. His hair brushed her skin, firing her nerves almost as much as his hands were. His kisses made her want more and more as she wrapped her legs around him and pulled him closer. She could feel his hard shaft near her sex, and the way he moved his hips, rubbing the tip up and down her nether lips, stoked the raging inferno burning in her belly.

Haakon traced a pathway down her body; her shoulders, the swell of her breasts, her nipples receiving special attention. All the while his hips were sliding his cock along the seam of her sex. Taking care to kiss and suck her nipples into hard peaks before going lower, he stroked her flanks and belly. To think, two children had been given life by this woman, she was amazing. Shifting his body down a little, he had to smile as Elvara whimpered at the loss of contact. He slipped his arms under her thighs and opened her legs wide. “Beautiful,” he whispered before starting to kiss, lick and feast on her pussy.

Elvara squirmed under his attentions, she could feel the tension pooling in her belly, rising higher and higher until all she could see were stars, until she blacked out for a few moments.

When Elvara came round, she found a very smug-looking Haakon gazing down on her, a huge grin on his face.

“You enjoy that then?” he asked before kissing her deeply.

Elvara could taste herself on his lips, and it was exceedingly erotic. It tasted of musk, sex and him. Shifting her hips slightly, she caused his shaft to breach her body for the first time, the thick tip entering her channel. She had been a little worried when she had first seen the size of him in his glory; Goddess knew he had no reason to be modest. The size caused a slightly pained stretching, she hadn’t had sex for years, not since the night she became pregnant with Katla. Wrapping her legs back around him and pulling hard, she felt Haakon fill her completely. It was like they had been made for each other, she had never felt like this before.

Green eyes studied her face, making sure she was alright. “Just give me a moment, Beloved. If I move now, I’ll shoot off like some untrained teenager,” Haakon told her, taking a few calming breaths before he started flexing his hips. He didn’t think he would ever forget every moan and whimper she made as he pushed her higher and higher. Haakon twisted his hips slightly as he went into her body, hitting that magical spot each time, changing rhythm and angle until she could bear it no longer and came apart around him, her body squeezing his so hard he found it impossible to move, he velvet sheath holding him tightly within her as she spasmed again. Haakon reached between them and rubbed at her clit, until her eyes rolled back into her head and she passed out a second time.

When she had recovered a little, Elvara kissed him on the lips, pulling his tongue into her mouth and sucking on it. Then she started moving her hips against him, sending his shaft in and out of her body, her nails scratching down his back, causing him to arch into her harder and harder.

“Again?” he asked with a grin.

“I want to feel you come inside me, please?” Elvara whispered, before kissing him again.

“I was trained… you want me to come?” he asked in amazement, not having expected that honor.

Elvara nodded her mouth too busy nibbling down his shoulder. Moving her hips faster and harder, she could feel him swell inside her, before he arched his back one last time and flooded her womb with his seed.

Haakon collapsed on top of Elvara, completely exhausted and weak-limbed for a few moments.

“Shall we continue this upstairs?” Elvara asked when he finally lifted his head and kissed her gently. Haakon smirked and slipped himself out of her body before helping her stand. Elvara collected their clothes together and led the way to her room. “Hersir, would you do me the honor of sharing my bed?” she asked formally at the threshold to her room, looking anxious as she waited for an answer.

“It would be my honor and my pleasure, My Lady.” Haakon replied as he kissed her palm.

“For tonight, and all my tomorrows?” Elvara blushed a little more. She was asking him to share her life fully for as long as he wanted. It wasn’t even something she had considered until she found herself speaking the words.

Haakon whooped his delight and swept her into his arms, carrying her through the door before kicking it closed. Placing her on the bed he proceeded to kiss his way up her legs before showing her time and time again that night, just how much of a pleasure it was.

Elvara was still asleep when Haakon woke up in the morning. Her dark Auburn hair was spread around her like the flame of the rising sun. She was sleeping on her front, her arms seeking him out even in sleep.

“You sleep Rakkaani. I’ll see to the girls.” He dropped a kiss on her forehead and pulled the quilt back up over her shoulders. He needed time to think. The night before had been a revelation. Haakon moved slightly and winced. He could feel the scratch marks down his back from where Elvara’s nails had sliced his flesh time after time as she came undone in his arms. He had never had such a responsive lover and he knew he would never take another, even if she changed her mind about wanting him to share her life. After taking a quick shower in her bathroom, he shrugged his jeans back on before slipping out of her room and along the corridor to his own. Nordlys caught him as she was coming out her door.

“Katla is in the bath, and I was going to make breakfast,” the young girl said, half smiling at his topless state. “Haakon, don’t forget the silencing charms the next time you share Mama’s bed. I had to tell Katla she was dreaming.”

Haakon blushed bright red. The last thing he needed this morning was a lesson in bedroom etiquette from an eleven year old. Ignoring her comment, or at least trying to, he told her “Go and make sure your sister is okay.” He then dived into his own room and found a shirt to put on.

It was another half hour before both girls made their way downstairs to investigate the smells that were coming from the kitchen. Pancakes were piled high on a plate by the hob, ready to be shifted to the table when they had seated themselves. The chocolate spread and syrup was already waiting by their plates. Katla piled her plate high with pancakes and chocolate spread, making a right mess of her face, grinning the whole time. Haakon smiled as Nordlys wordlessly handed her younger sister a napkin and helped her clean up a little. The girls were soon finished, and Katla went off to wash her face while Nordlys helped stack the dirty plates into the dishwasher.

Making sure Katla was well out of earshot, she turned to the dark-haired man. “I know you are bigger and stronger than I am, and I know it’s none of my business but… don’t hurt Mama please. She had enough of that with ‘Him’.” Nordlys refused to even give a name to her father.

“I have no intention of hurting her, Little One.” He told the girl softly.

Nordlys looked deep into his eyes and Haakon felt like squirming. I wasn’t a child that was looking at him, but an ancient soul. The girl nodded once, approving of whatever she had seen. “See that you don’t, Isä,” she said as she walked out of the room.

Haakon stared after her as she left, shocked to his very soul. The child had just called him father in his native language.

~*~*~*~ END FLASHBACK ~*~*~*~

Joyce grinned as she noticed the glazed look in Elvara’s eyes and took a sip of her wine before breaking into whatever thoughts were running through her sister’s head. “So, the boys. Where did you pick them up?” She asked, startling Elvara out of her memories.

“At the zoo,” Elvara grinned.

“Most people bring home stuffed animals home as a souvenir, not live ones.” Joyce said with a grin, noticing Elvara didn’t seem surprised at the wording.

“It was Katla’s birthday and there was a special exhibition on about predators. So we went as a treat for her. The four of us were looking around at the big cat enclosures and she was purring at the tigers when Haakon noticed we were being followed. He went into protective mode instantly, whipped us into the café and circled around behind the men. They didn’t seem the sort to be interested in little girls, but you can’t be too careful these days.” Elvara said with a wry laugh.

“I know, just look at that asshole I married.” Joyce muttered darkly.

“I wanted to hex his balls off when I heard.” Elvara said, reaching across to hold Joyce’s hand.

“Mother sorted the problem out. She never did have much patience with child abusers.” Joyce said with a grin.

“Too true. Remember that old guy who followed us around Egypt?” Elvara asked with a laugh.

“He was just fascinated with our hair. Mother hated it when we got it cut.” Joyce replied, chuckling. “So continue, with this story hmmm?”

“So, Haakon watches the two of them as they buy coffees and sit themselves down near the entrance, both staring at the girls. He sidles up behind them and starts talking; soon realizing they aren’t quite human. Once the girls were eating, I warded the table and joined him. The boys were very uncomfortable. Seems they came to see how the zoo was treating the lions and tigers and didn’t like all the crowds. They were shocked when we sat down and started talking with them. Haakon made a few threats, involving the removal of sensitive parts of their anatomy, if they came close to his girls again. That’s when Wolf growled and I knew what they were. What could I do? Send them away? They’d only followed the girls around like a couple of strays. There are only a couple of were packs left in Britain, and the chances of any of them coming across a mate are so slim…. Haakon and I talked with them again when the girls were busy on the climbing frame. Katla slipped and would have fallen but Fahr shot across and caught her. Wolf helped Nordlys get through the bars, just encouraging her onwards. So we let them move in. That way I don’t have to worry about them kidnapping the girls and whisking them back to the pack, and they don’t have to worry about how Nordlys and Katla are doing. The only condition I made was that they didn’t make any advances on them until they were old enough to cope. Not that they boys would. Wolf hasn’t even made a statement of intent yet, he promised he wouldn’t until Nordlys leaves school.” Elvara smiled softly. “It’s actually nice for Haakon and I to have on-call babysitters who actually want to be with the girls.”

“Know what you mean, Spike is much the same around Dawn, except without the whole mate bit.” Joyce laughed. “He treats her like she’s his baby sister and heaven help anyone who messes with her.”

Elvara grinned and nodded. “With the girls, I know they will have husbands who will be devoted to them and to their children. Men who would literally kill or die to protect them, and will never leave them or betray them.” She sighed softly. “What more can a mother ask? It’s more than either of us got at first. Wolf and Fahr would give the girls the moon if they asked for it.”

“You do realize,” Joyce said after a couple of minutes of thought, “Mother is going to want to ‘talk’ to them herself.”

“Oh boy, do you think I should warn them?” Elvara asked with a grin.

They looked at each other and said in unison “NAH!”


Isä – father
Rakkaani – Beloved
Hersir - Warrior

The rest of the day passed lazily. The girls had ‘won’ their water battle against Spike and Haakon; soaking both men to the skin, and were quite pleased with themselves. Even if the two warriors had threatened to dump them all in the pool. The ‘losers’ had joined the serious talk in the games room; where the younger men complained that Spike and Methos were cheating. Anya, Willow and Tara had returned from their shopping trip, with a loudly complaining Giles in tow. He'd been fed up by the third shop, and would have much rather gone to the museums they kept passing than play mule to a group of spendaholics armed with charge cards. He headed off to the games room to try and find some sympathy, casting a glare at the girls as they joined Joyce and Elvara in the library.

After a delicious supper, Buffy asked the adults to join her in her study to go over plans for the following day. She seated herself behind the massive Brazilian cherry wood desk, folded her hands together and waited for everyone to find a seat. She suppressed a grin when Spike seated himself on the corner of her desk and simply folded his arms. “Wouldn’t a chair be more comfortable?”

“Maybe, but they are all too far from you. Haven’t seen you since this morning…” Spike trailed off with a shrug and a smirk.

“I wasn’t the one pretending to be drowning in the back garden….” Buffy murmured with a smile.

“Wasn’t just me pet, was the walking art gallery over there too…”Spike muttered, flicking a glance at Haakon.

Haakon glared at Spike and then grinned. “You are just jealous of my ‘art’.” He then laughed and declared, “You also cheat at snooker.” Nodding decisively, Haakon sat down in the winged-back chair to the left of the desk and pulled Elvara down onto his lap. He felt very territorial over his lady with so many unknown males in the house.

“OI! I do not!” Spike stated indignantly. “Just have had a lot of time to practice is all.”

“Care to explain how you beat the Old Man then? And I don’t mean once or twice, but every game?” Ritchie asked with a grin. “He’s had even more time to practice than you have!”

Giles sat down with a huff. “Face it Spike, you cheat if you can get away with it. At least you gentlemen had fun. But I got dragged around to over a dozen shops by three rather single-minded women.” He grumbled under his breath for a few moments. “I could have spent the afternoon in the park or at the museum across the square…” he trailed off as Joyce sat on the arm of his chair and patted his shoulder in sympathy.

“There is time for that later Rupert. “ Joyce said with a small hint of humor in her voice.

Elvara looked up at the man, "If you want to have a good look round, they are closed on Mondays and I'll ring Richard, the curator, and ask him if you can accompany him on his rounds. He's normally happy to let us go in and see stuff. Opens up the cabinets for the girls when they are doing projects."

Giles gaped at Elvara, for once at a loss for words.

Buffy cleared her throat, garnering everyone’s attention. “Now that we have indulged our inner child, it is time to get down to business.” She waited for everyone to settle down before continuing. “I received a note from Spike’s friend Clem; he has volunteered to be our ‘get away’ driver tomorrow.”

“We are doing this tomorrow? Isn’t that a little, I dunno, soon?” Xander asked, leaning forwards. “Don’t we need some Intel or something?”

“According to Clem, from what he has heard the entire wet works team was sent to Sunnydale. This leaves very few able-bodied fighters within the council building itself.” Buffy grinned slightly. “So we shouldn’t encounter many problems once we get inside.”

Giles nodded. “I know the Council building is heavily warded against intruders, human or otherwise.” He paused a moment. “Once we get in, it will be difficult to know where we are going. From what I recall, most of the building itself is underground. That is where the most secure facilities are. Including the council chambers and Travers’ office.”

"That's where these come in useful" Cassie said dumping an armful of cardboard tubes on the desk.

Giles pulled the nearest one towards him and opened it up. "Plans? How on earth did you get these? I thought the only copies were in the council archives.

"Stole them when they were building the place" Buffy said with a grin. "These are the originals, the council has the copies."

"What about the wards?" Spike asked in all seriousness as he started to help Methos lay out the plans.

"Let me deal with those, Bebee, please. I'm no warrior, but I need to be able to help. Let that be my fight." Elvara asked, her voice almost breaking as the memories surfaced. Haakon rubbed his hand up and down her arm and said something that none of the Scoobies understood.

Joyce smiled at the obvious love the Soturi had for her sister. She deserved it.

"Can you hold them for long enough so we can get inside without anyone noticing?" Buffy asked in all seriousness.

Elvara closed her eyes for a couple of seconds then nodded. "I will have help. I can hold them; they used earth bound magic to set them."

Willow and Tara, as well as Anya, offered to help Elvara in any way they could in getting through the wards. This brought an approving smile from both Joyce and Buffy, but raised Xander’s idiocy levels to overload.

“She’s just your housekeeper. What can she do that Will and Tara can’t?” Xander stood up and started waving his hands around. “And Anya has no power to help with that stuff, she’s human now.”

Buffy burst out laughing, a real deep belly laugh. Haakon joined in, catching Anya's eye as he did so.

Elvara smiled. "I thank you for your offer of help, but I will have all the assistance I need. I suggest you cast protection on out fighters. Aud would you be willing to be my air anchor?”


Anya stood and bowed low. "My Service to you, My Lady." she said and smiled as she sat down


"Xander you are a fool at times." Methos told the boy as he belted him across the back of the head.


"I may not be a demon any more, but I was a witch in my life. I still know the ceremonies."

“I still say she has no business being there.” Xander huffed as he sat down, rubbing the back of his head.

Buffy stood up and leaned over her desk, bracing herself with her fists. “She has more right, and more reason, to be there than you do Mr. Harris. Even though she is restrained from shedding blood outside the ritual circle, she is entitled to her vengeance.”

Spike cocked an eyebrow and looked over at Elvara, before voicing the question that was no doubt on the minds of most everyone from Sunnydale. “Vengeance against the council for what?”

To everyone’s surprise it was Joyce who answered, “The council killed her parents when she was very young.” She glanced at Giles and sighed softly. “Remember when you and your friends loosed that demon… what was his name again…” Joyce trailed off in thought.

“Eygon, its name was Eygon.” Elvara said in a quiet voice, her face turned into Haakon’s neck.

Haakon stroked Elvara’s back and fixed his hardened green gaze on Giles’ face. If looks could kill, Giles would be dead and buried.

Giles pulled off his glasses and cleaned them furiously. “I remember the summoning; Ethan talked us into it…” He paused as the memory surfaced. “I remember a young lady and her partner showed up just after it had killed our friend Paul. They fought it, defeated it, and drove it back. I am ashamed to say that I ran and didn’t look back.”

Buffy took up the narrative. “From what I was able to find out, the energies from both the summoning and the banishing alerted the Council and they sent in a team to investigate. They didn’t find the demon; they found Helga and her Soturi, Hrolf. And they killed them, without even bothering to ask any questions, or even stop and think for a half a second.” Buffy closed her eyes and sighed. “Helga’s death was felt deeply by all who are connected to the mystical forces. She was and still is greatly missed.”

Giles slipped from his chair and sank to his knees in front of Elvara. He hesitantly took one of hands in his, and quietly said, “I know this will not mean much, but I would like to express both my condolences for the loss of your parents, and beg your forgiveness for my part in what happened to them.” He knelt there at her feet with his head bowed, waiting for her to say something… anything at all.

Elvara looked down at the proud man on his knees before her and something inside her smiled. “Rupert Giles, have you ever even thought of doing something so stupid again since then?”

“On my soul, no I haven’t. That one experience was enough to scare me straight into the council’s teachings, just like my father wanted” Giles grimaced as he said the last part, knowing it wasn’t helping matters any.

“Then I accept your condolences, and will express my forgiveness if you promise me one thing.” Elvara caught Buffy’s eye and winked.

Giles looked up at Elvara and nodded. “If it is within my power, I will do anything you require.”

“Put the false teachings of the council behind you, learn what they have deliberately concealed, and become what you were meant to be.” Elvara gently pulled her hand loose from Giles’ and placed a gentle kiss on his brow.

Giles felt a warm breeze blow through his soul at the feel of her soft lips on his skin, and knew he had been forgiven.

Buffy nodded and turned back to the rest if the room. “Now, before we get back to the actual planning part of this little party, are there any more concerns that people feel the need to express?”

One by one they all shook their heads as Giles resumed his seat. Xander started to say something, but was promptly smacked upside the head by Methos and told to keep his mouth shut until after.

Leaning over the plans spread out on the desk, Buffy pointed, “We will go in the front door. With Elvara controlling the wards they won’t know what hit them until we are all inside.” She traced a route with her index finger. “After we are inside, Elvara can seal the wards so nobody can leave. At which point we will make our way to the top floor and work our way down to lowest sublevel.” She pinned everyone with a burning gaze. If they run, let them. If they stand and fight, take them out. But as we clear each level, we will lock it behind us. NOBODY moves to a lower level by themselves, and nobody gets left behind on an upper level.” She stared directly at Xander. “Am I making myself clear on this?”

Methos stood up and began to pace. “Each door will be opened, the room behind it checked thoroughly.” He looked around the room and back to Buffy. “I think we should place one immortal with those who aren’t.” He nodded towards the two young wiccans. “I know they will want to work together, so I’m thinking we can place Ritchie with them for protection.”

Buffy nodded acceptance. “Agreed. Anya, I want you to go with Cassandra and Giles.” She tossed Cassandra a wry grin. “Methos, you’ve got Xander and Fahr. Should be an interesting time with them. Try and keep Mr. Harris out of trouble.”

Xander grumbled under his breath about not always getting into trouble and Spike snorted loudly, picking up what nobody else had heard.

“Xan, the first time she saw you, you had tripped and fallen over a gravestone. Of course you get into trouble. You are a magnet for trouble.” Spike said with a smirk.

“Spike, you and Haakon will make a good team.” Buffy snickered at the look Spike tossed her. She figured he had been thinking they would fight together. “Wolf is with me.” She looked at Joyce. “Joyce, I want you to stay here with the girls. You will be safe in the house, but the girls need a referee.”

Joyce nodded, knowing she couldn’t fight, but determined to keep the girls safe. “I’ll make sure everything is ready for when you return. There is bound to be a few minor injuries.” She turned to Cassandra, “Rupert has a habit of getting knocked over the head.” She laughed softly at the disgruntled look on Giles’ face and ruffled his hair, much to his annoyance.

“Now that we have that organized,” and Buffy sat down in her chair again, “Remember, we will move as one unit to the uppermost floor and work our way down. Stay with your partners. If one of you gets hurt, let us know.” Buffy opened the desk drawer and withdrew a handful of ear buds and small radios. “You will each be wearing one of these so we can stay in touch with each other.”

"What about prisoners?" Elvara asked, wiping her eyes on the tissue Joyce had passed to her.

"I don't intend to take any." Buffy replied coldly.

"I meant theirs Bebee. You know what the council is like. They keep all sorts in their cellars” Elvara murmured, her head down.

Haakon freed Elvara’s hair from its clip so he could run his fingers through it as he murmured soothing words to her, calming her with his touch.

“Once we reach the lower levels where the containment cells are,” Buffy pointed to the map to show everyone, “We will judge those in the council’s grasp on an individual basis.” She looked around the room and saw expressions of confusion on several faces. “Some of their prisoners will be harmless beings, some might be injured, and some will definitely be dangerous.”

Xander stood up and, for the first time that day, smart words came out of his mouth. “So we heal the injured ones, if we can. Free the harmless ones, and dispose of the dangerous ones?”

Buffy nodded. “Some of the injured will be beyond help, in which case we will give them mercy.” She noted that everyone seemed to understand what she meant. “Now for weapons. We need to arm ourselves properly, Elvara have you kept..?”

"Of course Bebee and the wards are set to open for any of your blood." She grinned and cast a naughty look at Spike. "You're going to like Bebee's toy cupboard.”

“Holy water is useful if we run into any vampires…”said Xander, thinking again.

"I'll take care of that." Elvara said smiling at Joyce.

"We used water pistols in the past." Willow added "but they aren't much good against humans. I don’t know if I could kill anyone," she looked at Buffy worriedly.

"Tranqs." Elvara said. "It's what I'll be carrying. Guaranteed to knock out an elephant and keep him asleep until you give them the antidote."

“Are there anymore questions? Concerns? Ideas?” Buffy looked around the room and caught a couple of yawns hiding behind hands. She laughed, “I think the only concern now is where your beds are!” She stood up and made shooing motions with her hands. “Off to bed with you lot, tomorrow will be a busy day.” She put a hand on Spike’s arm and kept him there while everyone else left the room. “I placed you with Haakon for a good reason. He won’t leave Elvara when she is in danger, and I am counting on you to protect them both.” She gave a sad smile. “The world cannot afford to lose another of her line at this time.”

Spike nodded and wrapped his arms around Buffy. “Figured it was something like that pet. You have my word; I’ll protect them both with all that I am.”

~*~*~*~*~*~

After the meeting was over Willow approached Elvara quietly. "We can help, you know. I'm getting good at the magics." she said; not wanting to offend, but needing this woman to understand she was capable of doing her bit.
"I thank you for the offer, but with the powers flowing through me you are more likely to be hurt Little One."

Willow's face fell, and she felt a small worm of anger towards the woman in front of her wiggle into her soul."I'm quite capable of doing anything that is needed." she said almost viciously, startling Tara.

"Sweetie?" the blonde tried to grab Willow's attention but Elvara shook her head.

"Give me your hand Willow," she instructed in a tone that brook no argument.

Willow held out her hand and Elvara took it into her own

"Now try and ward your thoughts from me. It’s a simple enough thing to do. One of the first things a witch learns is how to clear her mind."

Willow nodded and did as she was asked. Elvara was right; it was one of the first things she had learned.

Elvara gave her a few minutes to settle herself, and then proceeded to walk through Willow’s, memories. With good manners she kept away from really private things but yellow crayons we soon floating through Willow's mind.

"Now, young witch, try to walk through my memories." Elvara instructed.

Willow tried, she really did. But there was no way she could get through the walls that Elvara had raised.

"I wasn't trying to be unkind, child. You really have got talent, but you aren't strong enough yet to contain the powers that will be passing through me when we face the Council." Elvara let go of Willow's hand giving her powers a boost as she did so.

Elvara looked at the two witches standing side by side, and then spoke carefully. "You cannot help with the wards, but there is something you can do. When we get close to the building we might alert any observers. If I cast a glamour do you think that between you could hold it for about fifteen minutes? The hard part is the casting. I have to disguise the fact that we have so many predators and warriors amongst us."

Tara and Willow looked at one another. "We can do it, if you show us what's needed."

Elvara smiled. "That will not be a problem. Until tomorrow little ones.” Elvara wished them both a pleasant rest and exited the main house, crossing the garden on her way to the mews house.

Everyone made their way to their respective beds, seeking a rest that they would need, but somehow knowing it wouldn’t be as much as they needed.

~*~*~*~*~*~

Giles awoke with a start, looking around in confusion. It took him a few moments to remember where he was; the mansion in London. It was still dark; the glowing numbers on the clock letting him know it wasn’t quite 5am. He was all set to blame the jetlag until a low noise caught his attention. HE pushed the covers back and slipped his feet into the slippers on the floor. The noise sounded again, different than what one might expect in the heart of the city. He made his way quietly to the window and looked out into the garden, hoping to see what had disturbed him. The garden was lit by torches, flaring and smoking in the pre-dawn air. He could see Elvara making her way along the path, softly blowing on a cow’s horn, all call to prayer. Giles shrugged on his jeans and a button-up shirt and made his way down to the back door. Opening it, he followed the sound into the garden, noticing Anya, Willow and Tara just ahead of him.

“What is it Giles? What’s she doing?” Willow asked her eyes wide in wonder.

But it was Anya that answered. “It’s the opening a private Moot, the call to prayer. I haven’t heard it for nearly three hundred years. I didn’t realize there were still priestesses left who remembered the old ways.”

The horns sounded again and Elvara slowed as she approached them. Bowing to the witches, she turned to make her way a path at the side of the garden. Haakon followed close behind, trailed by Nordlys and Katla, who were being trailed by Wolf and Fahr.

“It’s an invitation to join in.” Anya explained as she made her way to Nordlys’ side. The girl smiled as she made room for the ex-demon.

It was eerie sight, with the women of the family dressed in long cloaks, quietly making their way through the torch lit darkness, along a well-trodden but almost hidden path. As he rounded a corner, Giles could see a Hof had been built, the altar standing proud within the stone enclosure. Elvara stopped at the entrance and undid the bow holding the cloak around her shoulders, slipping it off, Giles could see she was naked underneath. The gentleman in him didn't know where to look, but the magic user within him was fascinated.

Anya looked at the two girls, as they slipped their cloaks off. She was relieved to see that they too were sky clad. Elvara and her daughters were following all the old ways their long hair flowing loose past their waists. She pulled up off own top and concentrated for a second. Tattoos similar to the ones on Elvara appeared on her skin. Haakon smiled as the witch slipped off the rest of her clothing and stood as naked as Elvara. She walked past the warriors and into the inner sanctum, taking the fourth place in the circle.

“What's going on?” Willow asked Giles in a stage whisper when Fahr barred them entrance from the inner circle.

“It’s a prayer to the sun. We're facing the council today and there will be fighting and bloodshed. This is a ritual to prepare the way to Valhalla for any we lose in the fight. It will tell the Valkyrie that they are strong fighters. It’s ancient. Willow, only the strongest Priestesses, strongest witches are permitted to call on the Gods like this. Elvara is unexpected” He became quiet as Haakon threw him a look before sinking to his knees and lifting his arms in supplication. Giles' attention was brought back to the circle as Elvara blessed it to Fire and Ice, Wind and Earth. He could see the magic swirling around the female figures. Elvara was holding an athame in her hands, lifting it high so that the first rays of the sun could be caught on the metal. Giles could see it was covered in runes.

Slicing down quickly, she cut open her arm. “With this offering I beg you Lady, Keep their wounds from them til the battle is won” she cried before letting her blood flow into a chalice set in the centre of the circle.

Giles gasped, the woman was using powerful magic to hold off the wounds that they would receive during the battle .If any of them got injured, they would not feel the pain or the wounds until far later. It took a lot of power to produce that affect. This was no 'middle aged housewife' but an incredibly powerful and knowledgeable priestess of the old path.

Wow, I mean, Wow” Willow managed to say, she could feel the power all around her, flowing through the air.

“Wow indeed. That was how they used to make Berserkers when the Vikings fought, the priestesses would take keep the injuries away from their bodies until after the fighting was over. The warriors knew that they couldn't be hurt. It is the reason that they are so respectful of the women. They literally held the men's lives in their hands.”

“She's so beautiful” Tara said, “look.”

Willow felt a little jealous until she turned to see Elvara and the others closing the circle, Elvara was glowing, like some light was shining through her skin to lighten the world. The effect only increased when the sun caught her long hair.

She had picked up the chalice and was adding some of the ice and soil they had used in the ceremony to it. Blowing on the surface she whispered something before waving her hand over the chalice. The flames from it leapt high, adding an unearthly light to the woman's face.

Xander came up behind them, Buffy and Spike fading in from the shadows having watched everything quietly. “What you all doing?” Xander asked.

Willow pointed to the figures making their way through the swirling mist. Wolf was holding a cloak for Nordlys and slipping it over her shoulders, Fahr doing the same for Katla. Haakon hadn't touched Elvara's cloak. She stood there still naked, holding the chalice in front of her. Haakon knelt at her feet and Elvara offered him the blood mixture. The man touched his lips to it, before kissing Elvara's hand and standing. Wolf and Fahr followed suit. Elvara then looked at Giles. “Councilman, do you want to join the sacrament?”

“What's in it?” Xander hissed, noticing the blood on Wolf's lips.

“Ice, fire, earth and wind, mixed into Elvara's blood.” Tara said quietly, not taking her eyes off the glowing priestess.

“Ugh! I'm not touching that.” Xander exclaimed.

“No one asked you too boy.” Fahr told him with disgust as he carried a tired Katla into the house.

Giles knelt before the Priestess, head bowed until she touched him, then he accepted the chalice to his lips. It tasted of violets and spring flowers, not what he was expecting at all. He kissed her hand as he stood and looked into eyes filled with compassion. Here was the woman whose parents he had helped kill trying to keep him safe.

“Bebee, I know you don't need it, but will you accept my offering?” Elvara asked, kneeling in front of Buffy.

Buffy took the cup and touched her lips to the rim, before offering the rest to Spike.

“I think you'll enjoy the flavor.” she told the vampire. “But don't give it to any others vampires; it’s the equivalent of Holy Water.”

Spike looked at the cup a little hesitantly. “Well, I don't think I've done anything to piss either of you off.” he lifted the cup in salute and drank the blood. It tingled on the way down but he could feel it warming his body the way Buffy's did. With a bow he handed the chalice back to Elvara.

Elvara gave the last drops back to the stones inside the circle. When she had finished, Haakon wrapped her cloak around her shoulder pulling her close into his body and kissing her deeply.

“How can he bare to touch her, she's old and fat!” Xander shuddered, “And that one's nothing but a pervert!” he pointed to where Wolf was talking quietly to Nordlys. Xander was still smarting from being told off for making a pass at the young woman, having not realized she was jail bait. The next thing Xander knew was that he was being held up by the throat, pinned against the wall behind him, legs dangling a foot off the floor.

“I have had just about enough of your lip, Boy. The only reason you are still breathing is that you are hear under Buffy's protection, but when you attack and belittle one of the most beautiful, caring human beings there is I ignore that and kill you.” Fahr and Wolf had him pinned; Haakon looked ready to commit murder.

It was Spike that came between the two weres and their prey. “Whelp, will you please stop looking with your prick and start looking with your eyes and your brain?” he asked as he took Xander down, to growls from both the men. Leaning close he growled into Xander’s ear. “And if you don’t smarten up, they won’t get a chance to kill you, I’ll do it myself.” Shoving Xander away from him he stalked back into the house.

“Xander, you idiot. Just shut up!” Willow told him angry at her friend's reaction to everything he'd seen.

“Oh Xander.” Joyce had joined the gathering in the garden. She had overheard the boy's comments. “Will you never learn?” Joyce frowned in disappointment.

Everyone turned to re-enter the house, Joyce had made coffee and the aroma was wafting through the air, tantalizing everyone with its promises of refreshment.

Buffy grabbed Wolf and Fahr before they could enter the house. “I’ve been meaning to have a chat with you two.” She said with a serious look on her face. “Listen, I know what you are. That doesn’t concern me, EXCEPT when it comes to Nordlys and Katla.” She looked deep into their eyes, and the flame they saw burning in hers made them both shiver. “I’ll make it simple for you. Don’t deliberately hurt them. If you do, I will hunt you down and make myself a couple of new rugs for my study. Am I understood?”

Wolf and Fahr both nodded quickly, their eyes wide and fixed on her face.

“Good, now let’s go get something to eat before we head out.” Buffy released the young men and walked into the house in search of some of that coffee she could smell.

“Okay, I’ve threatened the juvenile hearth rugs.” Buffy mumbled to herself as she entered the kitchen. “Now where is my coffee?” This last was spoken louder, and directed to the room at large.

“Hearth rugs?” Willow asked as she sipped her cup of tea.

Elvara and Joyce shared a quick glance and broke out into giggles. It was Joyce who asked, “So you talked to them then?”

“We have reached an understanding.” Buffy speared Elvara’s two young daughters with a glance. “I trust I won’t have to repeat myself anytime soon?”

Nordlys shook her head and Katla just looked confused.

Nordlys leaned across and whispered to her sister, "Bebee Elizabetta has threatened Wolf and Fahr to behave until we are old enough," she explained.

"Oh. That’s good then." was the only reply she got.

Nordlys poured Buffy a coffee and handed it over. "Thank you for caring," she said as she kissed the older woman's cheek.

Spike smirked as he sipped from his mug, answering Willow’s question. “The two young men she is referring to, seem to have a similar problem to your old boyfriend.”

Joyce shook her head. “Not really Spike. Oz couldn’t control it. They can, quite well from what I have heard.”

Willow’s eyes opened wide in understanding, “Oh! And she just… if they…” She nodded her head, “Cool.”

Xander blinked, his mind taking in what had been said, not quite understanding until he made the connection. He yelped and tripped over his own feet, falling to the floor, sputtering. “You mean… them… werewolves?!?!”

“Not exactly,” Methos said as he accepted a bacon roll from Elvara. “Only Wolf is… well… a werewolf.” He took a slow sip of his coffee and continued. “Fahr is a werecat. Not sure exactly what type, but definitely feline.”

Xander just sat there, on the floor, blinking and shaking his head.

It was Richie who knelt down and whispered in his ear. “The only thing that’s going to happen is your arse is going to get sore from sitting on the floor, and your brains will fall out if you keep shaking your head.” He grabbed Xander’s arm and helped him back to his feet. “Don’t worry, it’s all under control.”

"Don’t worry. Right. That I can do. If they’re were-whatever’s why are they sniffing around the girls. Do the girls know?" Xander babbled

"They're their mates, Xander. With their kind they can actually recognize their mates very young. And yes the girls know." Ritchie answered leading the bemused young man to one of the sofas.

Clem looked up from where he was sitting, “Hi Buffy, “the demon said. “Where did you find Klantac Meat? I didn't think you could get it in this dimension.”

Buffy raised an eyebrow at Elvara who just grinned and pretended not to notice the look she was getting from Elizabetta.

Picking up her own drink she made her way over to where Haakon was sitting, where she sank down onto the floor at his feet and rested her head on his leg. The Soturi dropped his hand onto her head and stroked her hair slowly.

Spike took a huge swig of the warmed blood in his mug and nearly spluttered it out. “This is Slayer!” he exclaimed, staring into the mug in the hope it would give him some answers.

“We thought it should make you stronger for the fight. I know where a couple of potentials live and I paid them to donate. It was the work of moments for Haakon to trigger the Slayer gene.” Elvara explained to the still spluttering vampire. “It will speed you up? I was right?”

“You were right, Pet. Just wasn't expecting it, that's all.” Spike told the resting woman as he gratefully accepted a top up from Nordlys.

Dawn and Katla were also helping where they could. Dawn was nervous. It was obvious, but surprisingly it was the young girl that steadied the youngest Summers.

“Weapons,” Buffy finally said and looked over at Spike. “Give a lady a hand?” she asked holding out a hand.

Spike looked puzzled for a moment.

“I need blood,” Buffy explained and Spike brought her wrist up to his fangs, barely scratching the surface. The blood pooled in the scratches for a couple of seconds before Buffy dripped it into the middle of the kitchen floor. What happened next seemed like something out of a Hollywood film. Part of the floor sank and slipped sideways to reveal a set of stone stairs leading downwards.

Buffy flicked a switch at the top and the whole path was flood lit with Halogen lights.

“What were you expecting? Flaming torches?” she asked with a laugh at the expressions on the Scooby’s faces. “Let's go shopping.” she added with a wicked grin, before tripping lightly down the stairs.

Giles and Spike followed quickly slightly overawed at what they were seeing.

Cassie, Ritchie and Methos already had their own swords, but they picked up side arms from the rack that looked like it had been set out for the centre page spread in arms and ammo.

Haakon was efficiently checking over a new model Glock, and picking up extra ammunition clips before handing a tranquilizer gun to Elvara. Spike grinned as he watched the Viking check it twice before he allowed the Priestess to take it from him.

Joyce was smiling at Giles's expression. “Just don't ask mother about licenses.” she told him as she opened up the doors to a cabinet that held knives of all sorts. Some looked like they should be painted onto the walls of Egyptian tombs while others looked more like they'd come out of the fevered imagination of a psychopath.

Buffy and Methos reached in together to pick up the knives they normally carried. Buffy's had dragons curled up the blades, dragons that seemed to uncoil slightly as they fitted into her hand.

The converted cellars seemed to go on for miles. Buffy watched in amusement as spike opened one of the doors to find a bare room with chains attached to the wall.”Prison cell,” Elvara explained coming up behind the blond. “Those chains were built to withstand demons, vampires would stand no chance.” she grinned, “You and Bebee can play later, work now.” she said knowingly.

“And Joy, we don't need licenses.” Elvara grinned at her sister. “Diplomatic Immunity at its best.”

Buffy and Cassie went round the room making sure everyone was armed. Ritchie had pulled two more tranq guns out and handed them, hilt first to the two witches. He then showed them how to put the holsters on properly, securing them in place with leg straps. “Make sure you pack plenty of spare doses, they fit around the belts.” he ordered before he checked that Buffy didn't need him for anything else.

Methos watched carefully as Xander picked up his own weapons. Whatever misgivings he might have had about the boy, he knew his weapons.

It took them less than fifteen minutes to arm fully. Then Buffy opened up the last cabinet. It was filled with medical supplies.

“I'll see to that with the girls help when you've left.” Joyce told her mother before hugging her closely. “You be careful.”

“I will.” Buffy said, returning the hug. “Elvara lock down.” she instructed as she made her way back up the steps.

Elvara nodded once and closed her eyes for a fraction of a second. All that could be heard were the resounding thuds of steel shutters, back by the strongest wards known, locking into place. The noise was echoing through the room.

Upstairs Dawn looked in horror as every single window and door became impenetrable. The only way in or out was through the massive oak front door that had been steel lined centuries ago by a master smith.

Elvara accepted Haakon's aid in climbing up the stairs; their fingers interlinked the way that Spike's and Buffy's were.

Nordlys was waiting at the top for them. She sank onto her knees in front of her mother. Elvara let go of Haakon's hand and placed her own on Nordlys’ head. “If I return I will. If not, take my place with honor.” she told the young girl, trying to ignore the tears that were welling up in her own eyes. They were exactly the same words her own mother had spoke to her when she and Hrolf had left to fight the Demon Lord that had been released.

Nordlys nodded “I will.” she said before rushing into her mother's embrace.


Buffy stepped forward and wrapped her arms around them both, tears shimmering in her eyes. “Know this my little dancing light. If it is within my power, she shall be returned to you.” Buffy ran her thumbs across Nordlys cheekbones and winked. “And we all know that her Soturi would die before allowing her to be harmed.”

At that, Nordlys gave a gasp, her eyes widening as she remembered something. “I’ll be right back…” and she extricated herself from her mother’s embrace and raced out of the room.

Tara made a move as if to follow, but was restrained by Anya’s gentle hand on her arm. “I think I know where she is going. She’ll be back once she has found it.”

“Found what?” Xander asked with an absently curious tone to his voice, as he checked and rechecked the gun he had chosen from Buffy’s vast arsenal.

“You’ll see,” Methos said as he clapped a hand to Xander’s shoulder and left it there, showing Xander he was there for him, even if only to kick his ass.


Nordlys searched through her room in a frenzy. It had to be here somewhere.

There it was. She pulled out the wooden box from the bottom of her wardrobe. She knew it had been here.

Hurrying back down the stairs she nearly skidded at the bottom, only to be caught by Wolf.

She ran to her mother's side

"Mama, you gave this to me for safe keeping when I was ten. I return it now to your hands," she said as she pulled a true Viking sword from its scabbard. The light caught the pattern welded blade and flung the beams back around the room.

"The other dragon sword, I thought it lost to history," Buffy said in astonishment. "I had no idea you had that."

"It was the traditional weapon of the Soturi." Elvara explained quietly as she looked at the blade her father had carried, reverently she took it from her daughter's hand and replaced it in its scabbard before turning to Haakon.

“I place my protection in your hands, Soturi. Guard us well.” she said before kissing his cheek.

“My life in your service lady.” Haakon replied before fastening the baldric around his torso and checking on the state of the blade. It looked like an efficient killing machine, if a sword could be called a machine. The light glinted off the pattern worked into the metal, there was a groove running down its length, and a simple cross guard. It seemed designed just for killing.

A horn outside sounded and they made their way out of the house towards the van Clem had borrowed from one of his friends. As they left Willow watched as the three young girls cuddled up to Joyce, needing the reassurance that they would see their loved ones again. Nordlys seemed the worst affected. She turned her face so her mother wouldn't see her tears.

“Set the wards,” Buffy asked Elvara as she slipped into the van.

~*~*~*~*~*~

Elvara meditated as the van they were crammed into worked its way through the side streets and made its way to the innocent looking square that held the building that was Watcher's HQ. Clem had driven the route three or four times in the night, making sure he knew it off by heart before he brought Buffy and the warriors to their target. Buffy and Spike shared the bench seat at the front while everyone else was crammed in the back.

Haakon and Anya flanked Elvara as she went deeper and deeper into her own mind, building and holding a powerful glamour.

Methos took advantage of the situation by pulling Cassie onto his lap. Methos had already threatened to remove Xander’s spleen through his nostrils if he disturbed the Priestess at all. The look on the immortal man's face, and the lack of sympathy on anyone else's had made the boy hold his tongue the whole time. It wasn't until they drove passed one of the huge plate glass windows along Regent's Street that he realized how hard she was working. All he could see of their reflection was Clem's small car from Sunnydale. There was no sign of the large van being driven by a floppy skinned demon.

Elvara nodded to Willow as they entered the road that led to the Watcher's home square. She held out her hand, Tara's already grasped firmly in her other and prepared to take up the load that was the glamour. Willow screamed. She had never felt so much power course through her. Hair and eyes turned white as she pulled the extra strength she needed form her lover before she picked up the mantle that Elvara was handing her. A small part of her mind hadn't really believed the older woman's warning. She did now. Anya touched the joined hands and added just a little more power as the glamour settled on the occupants of the vehicle. Buffy looked more like Joyce, Clem like any other son being made to take his mother shopping; the rest of them vanished from sight. Willow was breathing hard and sweating, this was hard.

“Stop fighting the power the earth is trying to give you, child,” Elvara instructed. “Let it flow through you. It’s a lot easier.”

Willow did as she was told, letting Gaia's own strength just flow through her body without hindrance.

“Better?” Elvara asked.

Willow nodded.

“Three minutes,” Clem called out from the front. The warriors started to pick up their weapons. Mostly swords and knives. Haakon took the intricately bound braid off of the hilt of his sword before strapping a Glock 22 to his hip and checking the knives he had hidden on his body.

Spike had slipped into game face as they rounded the corner. Clem pulled to a stop in the middle of the road and everyone climber out from the van, before he took off to wait for the pick-up signal. No-one had noticed a thing. The 'car' hadn't stopped at all.

Elvara stood by Buffy's side, Cassandra and Methos behind them; the light glamour they were wearing made them seem like any other group of tourists wandering around London looking at the architecture. Richie and Haakon scanned the street up and down, watching for any trouble. Spike just reveled in the fact that he could stand in the sun but Buffy wasn't fooled, he was still on high alert, he was just enjoying the sun.

Haakon took his place bedside Elvara, Anya coming up the other side.

“I am fire, I am ice,” Elvara repeated, listening as Anya picked up the rhythm. Soon she and Haakon joined in

“We are air and earth.”

It was the work of seconds, but it seemed like hours to those waiting.

“Fucking bastards!” Elvara exclaimed, her hair suddenly turning pure gold, eyes flashing. “Those bastards have anchored to the planet using innocent souls. Give me two minutes Beebe.”



Xander watched as Elvara performed her so called magic. Willow and Tara stood off to one side, looking pale and tired but were the magic users and he couldn't see why they had to bring the house keeper with them. She rubbed him up the wrong way completely. Joyce had said it was something to do with the Pheromones, that she gave off the essence of the female and he wasn't old enough to appreciate it yet, to him she looked like every other middle aged mother and could do with losing some weight.


“Elvara, are you sure you can manipulate the wards?” Buffy chewed on her bottom lip as she considered the options. Human blood had sealed the building in front of them; the wards were the strongest she'd seen in this dimension, other than her own of course.

“I know I can. It will pull a lot of power, but I've done it before. I need to do this, to help today Buffy. I need to” Elvara said, shaking slightly.

Buffy wrapped her arms around Elvara's shoulders and hugged her closely.

“I can't fight like you, Buffy, I mustn't do harm, but I can bring down those wards with no-one knowing. My part in the battle.”

With a nod Buffy agreed and walked away from the priestess. This was her battle.

Willow could see the wards, and they scared her. She had never seen anything like them before. They were thick, heavy and solidly built, wrapped into the very earth itself. Nothing she had ever learned had prepared her for this.

Buffy signaled to Elvara then loosened her sword in its scabbard. Something changed in the atmosphere as Elvara started to mutter under her breath.

'Great' thought Xander, ‘just what we need, her going loco.’

Elvara was starting to sweat, beads of water running down her face and arms, the cloth clinging to her skin. Haakon wrapped his arms tightly around her, pulling her close into his strong body. His long hair loose covering both their faces like a curtain, hiding them both from sight.

Spike turned suddenly to face the older looking woman; he could hear her heart beating faster and faster as if she was running a marathon. The thudding was getting louder and louder. Haakon started to whisper to the witch in his arms.

“I am your rock and your support, you are safe with my arms, anchored to me you can travel where you will, I will call you home” his baritone voice echoed between them.

Anya joined in, getting under Haakon's embrace so he held them both. “I am air, I let you fly freely. You are safe with me.”

Spike watched, fascinated, as they both stroked Elvara's sodden hair back from her face, cradling her in their arms. Haakon sank to the pavement, pulling Elvara onto his lap, as he continued to half chant, half talk keeping the witch's soul in her body. Anya by their side, not letting go.

The movement was swift as Elvara turned in Haakon's arms and faced the building; throwing her open hand out towards it she slowly closed her fist.

“The wards are mine!” she said in a low, demanding tone. Then she smiled, it was almost unholy. “These wards are mine. I have them, Willow, Tara, drop the glamour.”
Tara and Willow were grateful for Richie's support as they slowly recovered from the exertion. How Elvara had produced it on her own they didn't want to know.”

“Can’t they see us from inside the building?” Xander asked as he handed Willow a bottle of water.

“No, Elvara is holding their own wards steady against them. It all looks empty to those on the inside.”

“All communications are down.” Cassie reported. “I have control.”

Buffy smiled and spoke softly. “Lower them at just the door, Elvara, and then let's get this show on the road.”

Buffy and the others mounted the stone steps quickly, slipping inside the building as Elvara dismantled the wards with no-one on the inside any the wiser. Xander was the last one up the steps; he turned to see Haakon lifting Elvara up into his arms, the woman seemed almost unconscious, and looked old, exhausted. Surely the magic she’d done hadn't been that difficult? Spike had pulled a gun from its holster and was acting as outrider as they brought the woman into the building.

Methos glanced over at Buffy, one eyebrow cocked in a silent question. She met his eyes with a considering look, before nodding in answer. He pulled out a small tube of what looked like paint and handed it to her.

Buffy opened the tube and squirted some of the oily substance onto her fingers before applying it to the left side of Methos’ face, turning it a vibrant blue. She smirked as she whispered softly, “Let Death be my left hand now as he was before.”

Ignoring the puzzled looks from everyone, Methos proceeded up the main stairs, sword bared, and a feral grin on his face. This was going to be fun!

Xander looked around cautiously, his mind racing through different scenarios, wondering how this was all going to go down. But Luck seemed to be with the raiding party as they made their way towards the main staircase. He noticed that Spike seemed to be noting which rooms had people in them and assumed the vampire could hear their voices.


Elvara shifted in her Soturi’s arms, beginning the climb towards consciousness. She felt the pulse of magic in the air and instinctively used the energy to mask their presence from the residents of the building.

Haakon paused as Elvara abruptly opened her eyes and squirmed. He gently placed her on her feet and steadied her while she regained her balance, keeping an eye out for anyone that might approach.

Xander gave a mild snort in disgust and started to complain about the delay, when he found himself unable to speak. He glanced up and found Willow glaring at him along with Tara, and realized he had been silenced by his longtime friend. Her look of disdain, coupled with what looked like pity made something inside him crack.

Methos glanced back and noticed Elvara was on her feet. He silently sent her a signal asking if she was okay. When she nodded and drew her gun he turned his full attention to the stairs in front of him. A wildly anticipatory smile danced on his lips as a fire began to blaze in his eyes.

Elvara slipped up behind Buffy and found herself closely shadowed by her Soturi and the vampire. She smirked to herself, knowing that she was quite possibly the safest person in the building at that moment.

Wolf and Fahr fluidly shifted into their animal forms, startling Giles and Xander. Wolf padded silently up beside Buffy, his eerie green eyes glowing brightly against his midnight fur. His nose quivered as he sorted through the scents permeating the building, separating those of his companions from the prey.

Fahr nudged Xander in the side, pushing him towards the stairs and rumbling beneath his breath. His sky-blue eyes locked with the dark-haired humans, encouraging him to follow after Methos. As he followed Xander and Methos up the stairs, he moved so silently he might have been the ghost of a tiger, with his silvery-white fur and pale grey striping.

Xander followed Methos as prompted by his massive four-pawed companion, more than a little leery of the sharp fangs in its mouth. His heart was pounding so hard, he hoped nobody could hear it. That hope was dashed when the tiger pressed against him as if to comfort him.

Giles, along with Anya and Cassandra, mounted the stairs just behind him, walking quietly so as not to disturb the current occupants of the building. The trio was closely followed by Willow and Tara, with Richie guarding their backs.

They paused at the first landing, cautiously peering around. Spike and both the weres stood with heads cocked, listening and scenting the air, marking the placement of their prey. Buffy raised an eyebrow in inquiry and all three men nodded, it was clear.

Haakon was still steadying Elvara as they passed a couple of closed doors which had originally led into the main ballroom. She swayed alarmingly before catching herself, ribbons of gold beginning to streak her dark red hair.

As Willow and Tara passed the doors, they both shuddered and turned pale, their stomachs lurching alarmingly. Tara’s small moan catching both Richie’s and Elvara’s attention.

Before Richie could say or do anything, Elvara unsheathed her Boline and nicked her finger on its needle-sharp point. She allowed a couple of drops of blood to fall to the floor outside the doors to the room. As she did so, the oppressive atmosphere lightened, and everyone felt like a weight had been lifted. Both the younger witches breathed heavily, but nodded to Elvara, indicating they were fine.

Buffy glanced back at Elvara and whispered, “Is there anything we can do?”

Elvara shook her head, “There is nothing in there now, just the residue of past atrocities.”

With a nod, Buffy indicated they should continue on. Only Elvara noticing the scale patterns spreading across the Immortal Slayers delicate cheekbones like liquid silver.

Their luck couldn't hold of course. They were just heading up the second set of stairs when a door unexpectedly opened and a woman came out through the opening.

Before Xander could even react, Methos had taken off at a run slamming the woman against a wall and efficiently slitting her throat. He lowered the body to the floor as quietly as he could before the others caught up to him. He growled something to Buffy, who nodded. Methos signaled to Spike who crept up to the door with preternatural silence.

There was a quick nod and the body was shoved back into the room the door being shut behind it, and sealed with glue.

One more set of stairs and they would be in the attics. Xander started praying that luck would hold, or the warriors would be quick with their knives. He patted the gun he was carrying, taking comfort in its weight.

Without further trouble they reached the attic. What had originally been used as servants quarters in times past, were now being used as offices for the bottom rungs of the Council ladder. With a nod and a flick of her fingers, Buffy motioned for her teams to split in 2 directions, making their way towards the secondary staircases at either end of the floor. “Leave nothing alive” she commanded as they moved to dispose of the enemy.

They swept through the attic, disposing of anyone they saw. Elvara pocketed a few small objects that she thought she recognized. She wanted to study them later when she had time. If she was right, the council had been stealing artifacts from ancient burial sites all over the globe.

Willow watched as the Priestess did nothing to stop the slaughter of people, she simply blessed the bodies from a small pouch of ash she carried so they wouldn't rise behind them. There was no mercy in anyone's face as the warriors silently annihilated any who stood in their way. Coming out of a small room was a woman carrying a bundle of papers. Her back was towards the invaders. Haakon took aim with his silenced gun when Elvara hit it out of the way, causing him to put a round into the ceiling. She shot the woman herself, in the back. When she fell, Elvara rolled the woman over and put her into the recovery position without saying a word to anyone. She held a hand over the woman's abdomen, the light from it glowed blue for a second. Spike raised an eyebrow.

"We kill Council, not children." was her only comment.

The vampire listened more closely; sure enough there was the unmistakable sound of a fetal heartbeat.

When they met up with the other group Buffy asked softly "How many alive?"

Elvara held up one finger and Buffy grinned and kissed her gently on the cheek."Next floor"

Like shadows, they descended to the first floor, and once again split up. This floor seemed to hold more offices and a library or two. There were even four of five bedroom suites, complete with ensuite bathrooms. Each council member they encountered was swiftly put to death. Even Xander could see the corruption that clung to the soon-to-be-corpses like a putrid cloud.


Methos, Xander and Fahr entered a room which looked to be a weapons repository. There were various types of guns as well as ancient weapons, such as daggers and swords. They surprised three men, all of which turned to fight.

Fahr, seeing one of the men reach for a gun, sprang at him with a silent snarl. Locking his fangs around, and through, the man’s throat, he let his body weight bear them both to the ground, slowly suffocating the life out of his prey.

Utilizing some of the leftover training memories from his Halloween stint as a soldier, Xander put a bullet between the eyes of the second man, who was approaching Fahr from behind.

The third man, who had been examining an ancient Viking sword, grasped its hilt and lunged at Methos, thinking him to be an easy target. He was quickly disabused of this notion, when Methos met his charge head on, blocking the downward strike with his own sword, a feral smile gracing his lips.

Xander and Fahr looked on as Methos played with the man, clearly enjoying himself. “Get it over with already. We don’t have time for your play date.” Xander said with a wry chuckle, as his words caused the Immortal to turn his back on the man he was fighting.

“Play date?” Methos said, arching an eyebrow.

“Yeah, you know SHE won’t be happy if we botch this up.” Xander said with a smirk. Fahr rumbled an agreement.

“Okay, fine!” Methos grumbled. “Ruin all my fun.” With a practiced move, Methos spun and blocked the strike that was aimed for his heart, and then with a final flourish, separated the man’s head from his shoulders. “Satisfied?”

Xander headed for the door, “Yup.”


Of course the good luck couldn't last forever. Wolf was padding forward on silent paws when a door opened up and a group of four men and a woman came out. The woman screamed at the top of her voice. The noise only lasted for a second or two before a knife appeared in her throat, but it was long enough for voices to sound below them.

Ritchie and Buffy swung their swords with practiced ease separating heads from shoulders. Tara tried not to look as the blood spurted out from the decapitated bodies, spraying walls six or seven feet away. The smell of blood in the air was becoming overpowering and she worried about how Spike was dealing with it.

Wolf had the last man by the throat and was tearing it out. He spat out the flesh when his prey stopped moving, there was such a look of disgust at the taste on his face that Tara actually giggled.

“From the sounds of it, looks like we’ve been found out.” Ritchie said as they all sprinted towards the stairs.

Buffy nodded, her brow furrowed in concentration. “Willow, can you and Tara make sure all exits are blocked? I don’t want any of these morons escaping.”

Willow and Tara shared a look and both nodded. They clasped hands and closed their eyes, Ritchie took up a position behind them, his sword drawn, guarding the two young witches. Bright light flared around them and both young girls hair turned a blinding silver.

By the time the flare died down, and their hair had returned to normal, the rest of their party had joined them. Elvara checked over both girls to make sure they were okay. She smiled softly and gave them each a small boost to shore up their flagging energies.

Willow turned to Buffy and said “all the exits we could find are sealed. Nobody is getting in or out.”
“Good. Time to get this over with.” Buffy said with a chuckle. “We move as one unit, protect the ladies.”

Anya was about to complain when a council peon took a shot at her and almost hit her. She dived behind Spike and started swearing up a storm. When her comments were added to by Haakon, she started to giggle. Seems he had just been missed as well.

Methos let out an unearthly howl, which was taken up by both Wolf and Fahr. It sent shivers down the spine of all who heard it.


Haakon grinned and said something that Spike knew was an ancient language before leaping into the fray.

Anya translated "Hurry to meet death before your place is taken." she told the witches, aiming with her own weapon. One shot took out the sniper that had been locking in on Elvara.

Elvara grinned and fired back at another moron who believed he stood a chance. She started speaking, almost singing

'Lo, there do I see my father. 'Lo, there do I see...
My mother, and my sisters, and my brothers.
'Lo, there do I see...
The line of my people...
Back to the beginning.
'Lo, they do call to me.
They bid me take my place among them.
In the halls of Valhalla...
Where the brave...
May live...
...forever.

Xander could see the effect the words had on their foe, it seemed to sap their strength and it powered the Scooby’s and Co. As one they moved forward, emptying round after round into those stupid enough to try and stop them.

There was a snarl from Fahr as a bullet found its mark in his shoulder, but the wound sealed as soon as it happened, the projectile actually back tracking out. He shot a grateful look at Elvara and continued stalking his prey. Every council member that got separated from the herd soon died. No one escaped the covering of gore.

Methos shouted "Duck" as he swung his sword taking off two heads at once.

"Show off," Cassie laughed, before jumping over the top of one little group of defenders, taking them out from the back.

It was a blood bath.

Spike vamped out and tore into the approaching councilmen with a vicious snarl, snapping necks and ripping out throats with practiced ease. Out of the corner of his eye he saw a woman aiming a gun at Elvara’s back, and he leapt in between them, taking the bullet high in his left shoulder. With an enraged snarl he grabbed the woman and drained her dry in a matter of seconds.

Elvara approached Spike and placed a hand on his back, whispering her thanks before ducking a flying dagger.

It seemed the work of just minutes to make it to the door of the cellars. Xander went to check his watch, but of course it wasn't there. He grabbed at Methos' arm to see how long they'd been in the building, only to get growled at by the tiger. Xander couldn't believe it had been only seventeen minutes. He turned to see Fahr ripping out some man's throat. His attention was diverted again by Willow aiming and firing her tranq gun at someone. Then he felt the white hot heat of a wound across his thigh. Unlike the wounds received by the others, this one kept bleeding. Xander cursed his reluctance to accept the Goddess's blessing earlier that day. Tara ducked down and slapped a field dressing onto his leg, tightening it until the blood slowed down. Suddenly there was silence. No snarls no shots, no yells. Spike listened closely for a few seconds.

"This floor is cleared," he finally said. "Just the cellars to go."

"And that’s at least half the occupied rooms down there" Giles reminded them. "Why hasn't anyone come up to find out what’s going on?"

Buffy nodded towards Elvara. "She's been holding the wards on the cellar doors. They are completely unaware of us."

“No wonder I couldn’t sense the cellar doors…” Willow muttered as if to herself, throwing an admiring glance at Elvara. “I think we should address injuries before we go much further, just to be safe.”

Xander grunted his agreement, peering at the wound on his thigh, which was still slowly trickling blood.

Spike stalked over to Xander and crouched down to peer at the wound. “Just a graze, nothing major was hit.” He looked up at Xander and gave him a fang-filled grin. “Bet it hurts like a bitch though.”

“No shit Sherlock…” Xander muttered, glaring around him, looking for someone to blame.

Methos snickered at the look on Xander’s face. “Next time someone offers their aid, I suggest you take it, no matter if you find it distasteful. Either that or learn to avoid bullets.” He slapped Xander on the shoulder and grinned.

Haakon wrapped his arms around Elvara, "You can't save the whole world, My Lady. He'll learn."

"Oh I know that. Are you alright? No wounds?" She asked, accepting his reassurance.

"Nothing to even boast about." Haakon reassured her, checking her over for any blood that belonged to her and not one of the numerous bodies they had left behind them.

"Do we take any alive?" Cassie asked as she reloaded her own gun, glancing at the basement door.

“While I would like to say no,” Buffy said, rubbing between her eyebrows with two fingers, “I think we need to take Travers and the members of the ruling board alive for questioning.”

Giles looked up from having reloaded his gun. “May I inquire as to why?”

“She wants to know how far this has reached. And who started the attack on you.” Cassandra said with a small shrug.

“Not only that, I want to know why in hell they refused to send a slayer to an overly active Hellmouth.” Buffy grumbled, cleaning the blood from her sword. She glanced over at Spike and shook her head. “And before you say that you had it under control, which I believe you did, it still doesn’t explain what they did.”

Spike nodded, any protest dying unspoken.

Edging away from Elvara, Xander insinuated himself between Methos and Fahr. “Let’s get this show on the road then.”

Elvara closed her eyes for a second or two, before opening them again. When she did they weren't her eyes. Willow gasped at the sheer age and power she saw contained inside them.

Buffy grinned, "Hello Cousin," she laughed as Elvara's hair turned to liquid gold.

Elvara, or whoever was in Elvara's body, beckoned to Haakon who went over to her quickly, bowing when he reached her. The woman wrapped her fingers in his hair, controlling his whole head, before she kissed him brutally, causing his lip to bleed.

"My fee," she whispered, before grinning. "I will hold the doors; none will know you are there until you enter a room. Enjoy yourselves my children." She looked around at them all, staring first at one and then another. "Good choice," she said when she examined Spike. Tara was given special scrutiny.

“Hands off. Cousin or no… you even think of touching him… I will hurt you.” Buffy stated with a hard gleam in her eyes.

With a tinkling laugh the being inhabiting Elvara’s body grinned. “No worries Cousin.” Elvara's hair darkened and her eyes returned to normal, she wobbled for a couple of seconds. "Goddess I hate it when she does that," Lifting one finger up she wiped away the excess blood from Haakon's lips. "Molested again?" she asked before turning the handle and opening the cellar doors.

Haakon nodded, smiling slightly. He hoped that no one else noticed his reaction to the kiss from the Goddess but from the smirk on Spike's face he wasn't that lucky. At least his pants were dark enough to hide the stain of his completion from the humans.

Elvara pushed open the door and stood back, allowing the more experienced warriors to go through first. Tara giggled as the Priestess's eyes gleamed for a second as she pinched Spike's arse as he went passed her.

“OI!” Spike exclaimed, startled. “Hands off the goods!”

Buffy rolled her eyes and sighed. “Maybe we should send her a few ‘toys’ to play with”

Xander muttered under his breath, “Looks like the entire family is a bunch of whores and perverts…”

Three hands reached out and slapped him across the back of the head, sending the young man to the floor. It was Methos who reached down and hauled him to his feet. “Say that again boy and I will have no trouble eviscerating you.” He snarled, his blue-painted face inches from Xander’s own.

"She prefers honorable souls, Buffy" Elvara said gently reminded her. "Sorry Spike, she means no harm. Amongst the Soturi it was seen as a compliment to be noticed by her,"

"S’ok, Isn't the first time some bird has grabbed me, at least this time she has a beautiful body." he added with his trademark smirk, causing Elvara to blush slightly.

Giles looked in askance at everything that was being said, He would have more questions for Joyce when they got home.

Buffy just looked at Xander in disgust. There was something up with the boy. His reactions weren't right.

By the time they had finished the conversations they were at the bottom of the stairs.

"According to the plans the holding cells are down the stairs to the left, the offices and council rooms to the right," Cassie reminded them.

Buffy nodded, she pointed to Ritchie, Cassie and and Spike, "Take your groups and go that way, down the stairs to the sub-basement cells; we'll head this way and get the Watchers."

Anya rolled her eyes. "Xander would you please stop saying foolish things. She is the Goddess of fertility and sex, if you piss her off enough your penis might never work again."

Willow tried hard not to laugh at the look on her friend's face as his stupidity sank in, but it was an effort. Unfortunately for Xander, everyone else gave in to the urge to laugh, even Fahr.

Haakon snorted out a short bark of laughter. “Harris, keep it up and the only thing your dick will be good for is pissing, and believe me, her blessing is worth having.”


~*~*~*~*~


The preternatural warriors led the way down narrow staircase to where the holding cells were. Each one was flooded with neon light, thick glass windows allowed their occupants to be clearly seen. A clipboard on the outside of each cell detailing the species as well as what experimentation had been carried out on them. Tara felt sick when she saw a female vampire with no arms or legs, her fangs pulled out and blood being dripped into a tube that led up her nose. A stake from Cassie put an end to her misery, Tara nearly crying when she whispered her thanks as it entered her chest.

A couple of figures in white coats appeared pushing a trolley between them. Ritchie shot first one and then the other before proceeding very cautiously forward to see who or what was strapped onto the gurney. The demon looked unconscious, and also looked very alien. Lilac tentacles lay motionless against its thorax.

"Vec'lak. Perfectly harmless. What the fuck have they done to her?" Ritchie swore.

"Push her in here," Elvara said. "We can come back and sort them all out later,"

Opening the door to an empty cell she helped Haakon maneuver the trolley in, covering the demon with a blanket, and freeing her from the strapping before shutting and locking the door.

"Next," she ordered. Haakon nodded and followed Spike to where he could hear heart beats. It was useful having a vampire hunt with them.

As they were passing one cell, Willow and Anya cried out, pointing excitedly..."That's Clem's family. That's his sister, Bayan. Giles we have to get in there."

The demon had noticed the figures, but was hovering protectively over what seemed like a bundle of rags in the corner of her cell.

Willow shouted again for Elvara, causing Cassie to put a hand over her mouth, "We're supposed to be being quiet, witch,"

Willow nodded slowly. She had forgotten in her excitement. Elvara opened the door and let Anya and Tara lead the way in, "We've come to help" Anya told the demon, who nodded once.

Elvara made her way over. "The little one is very sick. I can heal her but you need to let me touch," she said softly, not wanting to provoke an over protective mother.

Bayan nodded once more and Elvara pulled back the blanket, the little one had obviously not been fed properly, and she had been cut as well. The sight hardened the Priestess's heart against the monsters that ran the Council How could they do this to a child?

"Her name is Clerise," Tara told Elvara as she watched the healing. Rose colored light flooded from Elvara's hands into the demon child, causing her to make the first noise.

"Mama," she whimpered.

Bayan smiled up at the Priestess, but growled again as Haakon came into the room.

"It’s OK he's with me," Elvara told her. "He won't hurt you,"

"We've cleared this end, Rakkaani. Council are dead, so are the more dangerous prisoners."

Elvara nodded, "Bayan, we're going to lock you in again, but only we can break the wards I'll set. Even if there is loose council they'll not be able to get to you and we will come back and get you. If we don't the wards will fall in about five hours, so it will be up to you then, OK?"

Bayan nodded "Thank you, Lady."

Spike led the way back along the corridor, sniffing the air as he went. It was all clear. He could hear Buffy in the distance, she didn't sound overly stressed. He patted Elvara's hand and nodded slightly, reassuring the woman that all was well with the other group. He grinned at Haakon who was checking all around them with a warrior's eye.

"Why haven't they got surveillance cameras around here? I would have the place covered in them." he said quietly

"Oh, they had." Anya informed them happily "but my old boss got rid of them for us. Anything to keep Buffy and Elvara off of his back. He might be a demon but he's not stupid."

~*~*~*~*~

Buffy turned away from the stairs to the lower level and proceeded to the first door she could see. “Considering how misogynistic the council is, we won’t need to worry about any women down here.” Her eyes hardened, the pupils developing into slits and the green of her eyes took on an eerily glow. “So tempting to kill them all, and let Hades sort them out.” A rumbling growl issued from the depths of her chest.

Methos rolled his eyes, which looked massively weird with his half-painted face. “Don’t forget we need to question Travers and his men.”

“I haven’t forgotten. Just said it was tempting.” Buffy growled, flexing her fingers around the hilt of her sword. “Okay, we go room by room. The three of you on the right side, Wolf and I on the left. Clear each room.” A wicked grin crossed Buffy’s lips. “And for the love of little green apples, don’t get yourself killed.”

Xander leaned close to Methos and whispered, “What do apples have to do with this?”

Methos chuckled and replied, “She basically said if you get killed, she’ll make a pie from you instead of from apples.” He shook his head. “Hopefully you taste better than that snake stew she made when I was a kid.”

Xander blinked, understanding finally dawning on him and he nodded. “Gotcha, no dying.”

Wolf and Fahr both huffed with laughter, enjoying the two immortals twisted sense of humor.

They paused outside two doors on opposite sides of the hall from each other. With a glance and a nod, Buffy and Methos kicked down the respective doors and invaded the rooms.

Buffy huffed in indignation, sharing a wry glance with Wolf. “Looks like this room is empty. Damn it!”

Xander poked his head back out into the hall from the room he had entered. “This one is empty too. Do you think they were all in the upstairs hall?”

Buffy shook her head. “If I know anything about this organization, it’s the fact that the heads are lazy sons of bitches that prefer to let others do the dying for them.”

Fahr scented the air in front of another door and shook his head.

"Council room it is then,” Buffy said, "I haven't trashed that place in at least three hundred years. Wonder if there still is a bloody big axe sticking out of one of the walls?" she muttered with a grin. Buffy stood in front of the double doors that led to the main council room. "Everyone ready?" she asked. There were nods all round. Cheekily she walked up and knocked softly.

"Tea, Sir" she called out in a very feminine voice.

"Bring it in you stupid woman," a voice answered her.

Xander leaned over and quietly asked Methos, “She trashed this place once already?”

“Apparently. I’m not too clear on the why, but they must have pissed her off somehow.” Methos replied with a grin. “And what that idiot just called her, isn’t helping her temper any.”

Buffy grumbled under her breath as she pushed open the double doors, using enough force to cause the heavy wood to slam into the walls. She almost laughed out loud as the entire assembled council heads jumped in their seats as if they had been jabbed in the arse with a cattle prod. Her laughter was cut short as she spied someone she really hadn’t expected. But it was a pleasant surprise, at least for her. It wouldn’t be so pleasant for him.

Spike looked around the room as he followed Buffy in, "Your work, Goldilocks?" he asked nodding his head to the huge axe buried in the far wall.

Buffy nodded, but her eyes were hard. "Good afternoon, Alun," she said in a voice that carried back into the corridor where Elvara was waiting with Haakon. Elvara went white and started shaking. Wolf and Fahr both growled at the sound of that name. Methos and Cassie looked ready to commit murder.

Travers stood up from his chair at the head of the table, an angry look on his face. “How did you get in here?” He started yelling for the guards, but stopped as Methos started chuckling. “What the hell are you laughing at, you blue-painted freak!?!?”

“Just laughing at the thought of you summoning the dead.” Methos replied with a smirk on his face. “I didn’t realize the council was into necromancy.”

The rest of Buffy’s group filtered into the large room, taking up places along the wall. Ritchie and Xander closing the doors and leaning against them. Anyone trying to leave the room would have to get past the two heavily armed young men.

“Who the hell are you people?” the man to Traver’s right shouted.

"I looked and there before me was a pale horse! Its rider was named Death, and Hell was following close behind him." Alun quoted and started shaking.

"Hell is right, boy" Wolf growled as Fahr and he took point around the room.

Willow felt sick at the atmosphere; Elvara laid a hand on her shoulder and eased the pain. "It's been a few years, Alun," she said.

Haakon swung his eyes round to look at his Rakkaani, he hardly recognised the man in front of him, but Elvara did. The Sutori's growl sounded more like Wolf than him.

"Take them all," Buffy instructed.

The battle was short-lived; the Council were hardly fighters, untrained and unfit. It was the work of minutes before every man in a suit was hogtied and waiting on their knees.

Travers was still swearing, shocking Tara with the language he was using.

“Someone stuff something in his mouth. I don’t want to have to shout to be heard over that filth he is spewing.” Buffy said with a glare directed at Travers.

Giles walked over and grabbing Travers’ tie, shoved it in the man’s mouth, effectively muffling him. “It was a tad impolite of him. What with the ladies present and all.”

Alun sneered. “If those women are with Elvara... they are far from ladies. Probably nothing more than whores.”

A deep rumbling growl echoed throughout the chamber as Spike allowed his vampiric countenance to come forth once again, startling the councilmen. “Buffy love, can I bite him?”

“I wouldn’t if I were you.” Cassandra said. “You’d probably be poisoned or contract rabies or something.” She smirked. “Gods alone know he’s insane enough to be insulting the very people who hold his life in their hands.”

"Insane or stupid, they tend to taste the same." Spike grinned letting his fangs show. Alun gulped, he suddenly realised just who surrounded him.

Buffy hitched her hip up onto the table and started fiddling with her knife. "Now we're going to play a little game. I'm going to ask some questions and every time I think you're lying to me I'm going to cut something off." she smiled at the men sweetly, looking more like a cheerleader than a killer.

Travers spat out the tie. "Now look here, Little Girl...” He started to say but shut up when the decorative snakes on the knife Buffy had been holding turned to look at him.

“You really just don’t know when to quit do you?” Buffy said as she turned to face him full on. “You would think, being the head honcho around here, that you would have at least read some of your predecessor’s journals.”

“Of course I did.” Travers said with ruffled indignation. “It is required of all Heads when they are given the position.”

“Head? Given? It is my understanding that the entire board is supposed to act as one.” Methos said with a frown. “With no one person in charge.” He looked over at Buffy for clarification.

“That is the way it was set up. “ Buffy said with a nod. “The only person in charge of this little tea party should be the Slayer.” She frowned as the entire council started objecting loudly and with vehemently.

Spike simply raised an eyebrow. “What? You lot think you should be telling the Slayer what to do?”

Travers raised his head and spoke with pride. “Of course we tell the slayer what to do. She works for us after all.”

Buffy laughed, “You do realize that if it wasn’t for the Slayer, you idiots wouldn’t have a job?”

Several of the councilmen exchanged looks of confusion. Travers simply started sputtering in indignation. “The Slayer is always a young girl who needs the guidance of older, wiser heads." One of the men pontificated. There were nods of agreement from the other captives. "We teach her all she needs to know and then send her where she's needed."

"Where she's needed? How come you didn't send her to Sunnydale then?" Buffy asked, still playing with her knife. There was something almost hypnotic about the way she was stroking the snakes and the way they were responding to her.

"Lady asked you a question," Methos snarled at the man nearest him.

One of the younger men cleared his throat. “We were told that the Watcher in Sunnydale didn’t require her presence.”

Giles’ face flushed in anger as he surged to his feet. “I am the Sunnydale Watcher, and I have requested her assistance no less than 5 times in the past year alone!” He turned on Travers with a snarl. “YOU told me that I was exaggerating and that I should learn to handle minor problems on my own.”

A couple of the younger men shared a glance and then quietly inquired, “What kind of problems?”

Giles simply glared at them before responding. “The first time I asked for assistance was when the Master broke free of his imprisonment in the buried church. He killed over 300 people before Spike and I managed to kill him.”

"300?" the man stuttered, "We were told that the master was secured beneath a church."

"Well he got hold a cell phone and contacted his family. Darla came and freed him, it was a blood bath," Spike growled, his eyes shining yellow.

"Then there was the hell mouth spewing forth poison, calling every demon within a thousand miles. We've been fighting for years to keep it sealed." Giles ran a hand through his hair. "Every bloody time I called there was an excuse. Now when I finally get some help you send a fucking wet works team after me."

"Now come along, Giles. Be sensible man, you don’t really think the council hires killers to go after humans do you?" the younger man asked scoffingly.

Travers didn't say a word.

"Pet, his heart's racing along as though he's running a marathon."

"Stinks as well," Wolf added. "He's hiding something."

"Oh I know that," Buffy laughed. "Just like his predecessor did. I had to explain things with an axe last time," She nodded her head to the wall decoration. “Even though it’s not really a secret from anyone in this room.” She looked around with a raised eyebrow. “Even if the council keeps it from everyone except the board... or tries to at any rate.”

Xander spluttered for a few moments before actually vocalizing, “You mean it’s a standard practice to try and kill off watchers?”

“No. The wet works team was originally set up to act as a backup for the Slayer.” Buffy said as she stared directly into Travers’ eyes. “You know, in case something larger than she could handle alone came up.”

"Things like the Master, or the Gentlemen. You must remember them, the nice beings that steal hearts. You didn't get them in Sunnydale this time. They came after Nordlys. And she screamed. Can't steal her voice."

Giles looked puzzled, "The Gentlemen steal everyone's voices. That’s how they work." he said.

Elvara laughed. "My daughter had tonsillitis once and cried to her other grandfather that she hated not being able to speak. He promised her that she would never lose her voice again. And when an Elder God promises something, it happens."

"Wet works team?" Xander reminded everyone.

"They were the elite, fierce warriors who were supposed to guard the Slayer and make sure she lived beyond seventeen. Kind of makes me wonder when that changed. Shall we look in the diaries?" Buffy asked, glancing at Cassandra.

“Maybe after all this over with?” Cassandra asked, a wicked smile gracing her lips. “We can pinpoint it then.”

Buffy nodded and turned back to stare at Travers. “Whenever it came about, one thing is quite certain. It takes an order from the Council Head to send them anywhere other than to the Slayer. This leaves Mr. Travers here solely responsible for the deaths that occurred in Sunnydale.

“What right do you have to come in here and accost us, making these accusations?” the man sitting to Travers’ right demanded.

Buffy simply quirked one eyebrow and let the knife she was playing with slice open her thumb, causing the blood to well up and drip onto the carpet. “You ask who I am. Well that is the most intelligent question I have heard from the council in more years than I care to remember.” She slid off the table and stood facing the man who had asked. “I am Ielizibiet, Daughter of the Dragon, Shadowed Sword of the Dragon’s Temple and the Source of the Slayer line.” She closed her eyes for a moment, and when she opened them, silver scales raced across her skin, dancing across her cheekbones, and arching over her eyes, which had turned a mesmerizing silvery-green. “In short, I am the one person in the entire existence of this council that can render you obsolete.”

Travers shook his head "No, No that's just a legend. A bed time story we tell to children. You can't be real"

Even Giles took a step backwards.

"Now the first thing you are going to do is call your dogs off, and then you are going to tell me exactly where the slayer is, and what she's doing. Then we are going to discuss why some idiot here has changed the way the council works."

The blood on the carpet pooled slightly and began to move of its own volition, heading for Travers.

“Interesting trick that.” Spike said, pointing to the moving pool of blood.

“Oh it has plenty more tricks up its nonexistent sleeves.” Buffy said with a grin, exposing dainty fangs. She handed Travers her cell phone and ordered him to dial. “Call off the wet works team. NOW.”

“And if I refuse? You will what? Kill me?” Travers snorted. “Slayers don’t kill humans.”

“Now that’s just the thing, I never said I was a slayer, just that they received their power from me.” Buffy shook her head. “And as for killing you? Why would I do that when there are so many other ways to ensure cooperation?” As she said this, the pool of blood had reached Travers’ feet and was slowly making its way up his body, heading for his face.

Xander and Giles watched in fascination as the blood snaked its way up Travers’ body and settled onto his skin, forming a silvery mask before sinking into the flesh.

Elvara said something in a language that none of the Scoobies spoke, but Haakon laughed and nodded.

"He does look better," he agreed.

"Now shall we try again?" Buffy asked. "Wet works team."

Travers shook his head, then screamed as his cheek burned away, leaving his teeth visible through the flesh.

"Let me explain. Every time you lie, or prevaricate or even just annoy me, I get angry. It literally makes my blood boil and when my blood boils it burns."

Methos chuckled, the sound more sadistic than mirthful. “I remember when you used that on Kronos... was one of my better recollections.”

Giles looked over at Methos and raised an eyebrow. “Was?”

“Yeah... it was replaced a few years back...” Methos trailed off with a sappy grin on his face. “The day Elvara was born.”

Buffy just shook her head and motioned at Travers’. “Make the call.”

Elvara smiled shyly, looking up at Methos, the first man to ever hold her.

Travers’ hand shook as he tried to dial the number. He dropped the phone, watching as the pieces scatter across the floor. He raised anxious eyes to his captors.

"Shall we try again?" Buffy asked, picking up a cell phone and held it out. Travers tried to drop it again.

"Now that wasn't nice," Spike pointed out. "Watcher, you know the number?"

Giles shook his head, still considering the looks that had passed between the Priestess and Methos.

"Never mind. I'm sure Travers will remember as soon as we start chopping bits off." Cassandra said cheerfully.

"Fingers first," Anya suggested. "They hate it when you cut off their penises, they tend to stop talking and start yelling."

Travers gulped. Part of him had believed that these people were fooling, but it seems they were deadly serious.

Buffy grinned, her scales catching the light making her look like a monster out of a nightmare

The younger watcher by his side took the phone and started to dial the number.

“Seems like at least one person here has some sense.” Haakon said as he kept a careful watch on Alun. His eyes seemed to be lit with an inner fire, making the intense green of his eyes seem to glow.

Giles nodded. “It has always been my thought that when a watcher is brought onto the board... they lose the ability to think for themselves. That one must not have been on it long.”

Buffy told the young man to hold the phone while Travers talked into it. She didn’t want him dropping it again. She arched her eyebrows when Travers spoke a few short coded words into the phone. She didn’t like the looks of the smug grin on his face either.

The man holding the phone turned to Buffy, his face having gone completely white. “He didn’t call them off... he sent them to her house.” He pointed at Elvara.

“I had a feeling he would try something like this.” Buffy said with a sigh, shaking her head.

Giles and Xander expected Elvara to look frightened. Instead she smiled almost demurely at Haakon. Then her hair changed colour, becoming as fair as a wheat sheaf.

"You gave him my address?" she asked Alun. "You would put your own children at risk like that?"

Alun nodded. "Why not? The council is far more important than a couple of brats. They never should have been born anyway. I definitely don’t want to even think that my blood runs in their veins."

Elvara nodded, understanding. "Pity," she said. "Haakon, he is returned to the Soturi for their judgement. He is wolf’s head”

"What about Joyce and the children?" Giles asked in a worried voice. "The wet works team won’t show any mercy to the girls."

"If a nuclear bomb hit London, or a Hell mouth collapsed on top of the house, it might, and I do mean might, scratch some of the paint.” She turned to Travers. “Your wards were attached to the very planet we stand on. Mine are woven into the fabric of the universe; if this plane of existence is destroyed my house will simply transport itself to one of the heavenly realms. Yours were sealed with innocent blood, stolen. Mine were sealed with the tears and maidenhead blood of a goddess, willingly given. All you have done is signed those men’s death warrants."

"And your own," The voice that came out of Elvara's mouth was not her own.

“Not to mention the uproar from the embassies, when armed men assault the house.” Cassandra said with a grin. “Even if we had planned on letting you out alive, you would be spending the rest of your lives in prison for terrorism.”

Buffy closed her eyes, a smile dancing on her lips. When she opened her eyes again, they sparkled with laughter. “Father is dealing with them. Says he is in need of a snack.” She blinked and laughed out loud. “Oh he IS in a good mood.” Turning Alun, she looked him dead in the eye and stated, “By my Father’s will, you have no offspring.” Before anyone could comment, she turned to Elvara and Haakon, “The blood of the traitor has been removed, replaced by that from one who is far more worthy. Haakon, Soturi to the High Priestess, I offer my felicitations, you have daughters.”

Elvara looked at Haakon, her face alight with joy as the Viking stood there looking stunned.

"Thank you, My Lady." he stuttered

Buffy grinned then giggled, "Father says one of them tasted rotten..."

Elvara laughed, "Tell him I left the peppermint cordial in the kitchen cabinet, next to the teas,"

Methos kissed her cheek, gently "Always the healer. You do your mother proud."

"Thank you," Elvara smiled up at Methos.

Xander looked between Haakon and Methos. He couldn't understand why there was no animosity.

"Enough," Buffy said. "We need answers, now. Talk. Where is the Slayer?"

"She's in Cleveland," Elvara answered, in that echoy voice that meant that she wasn't the only one in her body. Looking into Travers mind, she could see everything he was trying to hide.

“Okay then Cousin. Want to tell me what the idiot has hidden in his so-called mind?” Buffy asked with a touch of exasperation.

“You mean things like the money he has stolen from council accounts? And the number of innocent people that he has either personally killed or had ordered killed?” The being inside Elvara asked with a mask of innocent mischief on her face. “Or maybe you mean the fact that he had managed to acquire the vampire known as Kralik, and was intending to use him in the current slayer’s Cruciamentum?”

Spike snorted. “That won’t happen. The blighter is dust on the floor.”

Cassie looked slightly puzzled. "I thought you'd banned that barbaric practise?" she said. "And I only developed the drugs so that the slayers could have a wedding night without worrying about ripping their new husband to pieces before they bonded."

Giles looked over at Elvara; her eyes were shimmering with an unearthly light. The being inside grinned and licked her lips seductively. Giles was embarrassed to find himself hardening under her gaze. "May I ask why Buffy keeps calling you cousin?" he asked.

"Later, Giles," Methos said as he pulled a knife out from its scabbard. He turned to Elvara, "My Lady, would you be willing to keep his answers honest?" he requested politely.

Elvara bowed her head, and then nodded.

Anya had been searching the room, opening one large cupboard she squealed excitedly.

"Buffy, some of the implements here date back to the inquisition...ooh, they even have crocodile shears. I'm sure we could heat them up enough for them to work...I haven't ripped anyone's penis off in nearly two hundred years."

Almost as one, every male in the room winced and fought the urge to cross their legs. “Ahn! Do you have to say things like that?” Xander whined, an almost animalistic sound of anticipated pain issuing from his throat.

Buffy laughed, “I’m sure we can think of some way to heat those up for you Anya. “ She turned to Methos and nodded once. “If anyone can glean honest answers from this waste of skin, it will be Death.”

Travers’ face went white, thinking he was to be put to death. Little did he know that he would wish that he had been.

Buffy looked over at Cassandra. “To be honest, I can’t remember if I did ban it or not.” She looked over at the axe imbedded in the wall with a thoughtful frown. She shook her head after a few moments and then nodded. “I think I did!” She laughed the sound echoing in the chamber. “Maybe we need to use the same principle for choosing Watchers!”

Giles smiled fiendishly at the thought of being pitted against a vampire. His daily workouts with Spike had kept him fit and in excellent fighting trim for a man of his years. He noticed that the watchers in the room had all gone completely white at the suggestion. Figures, they had probably never even been face to face with a vampire that wasn’t locked up and being tortured.

Giles took a deep breath "I think training watchers seems like an excellent idea. How many of you have faced a vampire? Or a Were of any kind?"

"Or a witch?" Anya asked, lifting up her hand and playing with a flame.

"Try an immortal or two?" Cassie smiled, but there was no warmth in the expression.

"Can we all stop boasting?" Elvara asked in her normal voice. "You are making the mere mortals feel a little bit inferior," she said as she pulled up a chair to sit down. "They are hiding more, Cousin." her voice had developed the echo again. "They expect you to lose here; Travers doesn't think you can really hurt him. He just fears death. Really fears it."

The blue painted man grinned evilly. "And so he should, but I think that my little one should leave," he said pointedly, looking at Elvara. "Her heart is too gentle for what is to happen."

"Go find something else to do," Buffy instructed. "And take the witches with you." She glanced over at the group of watchers and a look of impatience crossed her face. “On second thought, everyone out. And close the doors.”

A look of worried concern crossed Methos’ face. “Mother...”

“Do not argue with me. Just go. I am tired of playing with these fools.” Methos noticed that her nails had started to lengthen and he nodded, before herding everyone towards the doors. He literally had to grab Xander and push him through, as the young man kept trying to edge around him.

Haakon looked at Buffy as he put a hand in the small of Elvara's back to guide her away from the carnage that was about to ensue.

"My Lady Elizabetta, Alun still wears the tattoos of the Soturi. There are many of us who worked hard and long to be so honoured. By tradition they should be carved from his skin to be tanned and left in the temple as a warning to others," he said quietly, in the old language.
"I won’t forget," Buffy replied in the same tongue.


“What is she going to do?” Xander asked belligerently. “Why can’t we watch?”

Cassandra sighed and softly said, “You really don’t want to know.”

"You look worried," Giles commented to Methos as they escorted the ladies out of the room.

"Last time I saw her this pissed off we lost a city, as in there was nothing left standing."

Cassie pointedly shut the door, but it didn't stop the growls or the screams.

Spike could smell blood, not Buffy's, and there was a strong smell of some sort of lizard, and burning flesh.

Willow looked ill, so did Tara, but Anya just hummed a little ditty and checked her nails.

"I think we'll go and collect the woman I left upstairs," Elvara said grabbing hold of the two witches. Haakon and Spike followed them out of the basement.

As they headed up the stairs, Spike slung an arm around Haakon’s shoulders and said, “You do realize that you now have two teenage girls to call your own?” When Haakon threw him an amused glance, Spike continued with, “And to borrow your credit cards and your car keys, and keep you up all night worrying about them? Especially if it combines her red hair with your green eyes. Knock dead gorgeous is what they will be.” That said, Spike slipped away from Haakon and wrapped an arm around each of the two young witches, lending them what comfort he could as they shuddered from the screams issuing from below.

Haakon shuddered at the thought of being responsible for Nordlys and Katla, their father.


Elvara noticed the expression on his face, "Haakon, is everything alright? It's a bit late to not want the girls; you have been their isä for years."


"I have loved those girls from the first; it’s just the idea of all those men who will want them."

Spike laughed, he was still the Big Bad. Willow slapped his arm, "You caused that worry. That's
not fair." Making Spike laugh even louder.


Elvara laughed as well..."Haakon, Fahr and Wolf will help you there." she laughed even louder when Haakon growled at the thought of his daughters mates.


The sound of their laughter preceded them up the stairs, contrasting deeply with the blood-soaked walls.


Meanwhile, down in the basement outside the council chambers, the sounds of growling and screaming were keeping everyone else on edge. Everyone else, except Methos, that is. He just laughed with every twitch that Xander and Giles made. “Makes you think twice about pissing her off, doesn’t it?” Methos asked with a wicked grin.


Xander shuddered as a particularly gruesome scream seemed to be cut off in the middle.


"I wonder if she'll eat any bits. There wasn't a lot left after we caught those men attacking the orphanage." Anya said conversationally.


"Mother never did like child molesters. Other than as supper of course," Cassie added, but her eyes showed her anxiety.


Methos wrapped his arm around the immortal woman. "Swift justice," he reminded her.


A bang against the door startled Giles; he jumped knocking his elbow against the wall.


"Careful, watcher. Wouldn't want you damaged this side of the door." Methos grinned.

The silence was almost deafening when it finally happened, the door swung quietly open, and the slight creak echoing through the hallway. Acrid smoke, reminiscent of a smokehouse, wafted through the opened door, bring with it the scent of roasted pork.

Buffy casually sauntered through the door, carefully using her dagger to clean beneath her nails, a sated grin on her face. When Giles made to move past her into the room, her arm shot out, blocking his path. “Wouldn’t do that if I were you. It’s a little... warm... in there.”

“Roasted them up good did you?” Methos inquired, still grinning. “Anything left inside for a burial?”

"Not a lot, they pissed me off." She threw a bloody mess of seared flesh onto the floor. "Find something to carry that in would you?" she asked Xander who was looking particularly green around the gills.

"What is it?" Anya asked curiously. She poked at it with her foot, there seemed to be skin amongst the debris.

"The tattoos from Alun. He seemed reluctant to give them back." Buffy said with a shrug

Anya stopped kicking the pile. "Oh," she said. Haakon will be pleased. He can prove that the bastard is dead now."

Giles looked pale and Cassie grabbed him and put his head between his knees. "Just breathe, just take deep breaths."

"Thank you," he gasped.

"So what now?" Methos asked, handing Buffy over a bottle of water he pulled from their supplies.

"My cousin pulled all the information we need when she was in there, one of the men can bribe her into telling, I'm sure." Buffy grinned wickedly. "Then we rebuild the council."

"Again," Methos added dryly. "You forgot the again."

“Not my fault the idiots tend to shove their heads up their asses every three hundred years or so.” Buffy muttered with a sour look at Methos. “Apparently they like to think they are in charge of everything.” She snorted in disgust. . "I gave them a chance last time, and look what they did with it. I nearly broke a talon in there."

“Ummm... did you say ‘rebuild the council’?” Xander asked with wide eyes as he watched Anya play with the pieces of human skin. He really didn't like the way she was spreading them out to check the tattoos that used to span Alun's shoulders.

Buffy took a long swallow of the water before answering. “Yup. And seeing as I didn’t leave much left this time, ‘I’ get to pick the new head.” She looked around, noticing the missing people for the first time. “Where’d everyone go?”

“Sent them upstairs to fetch the girl Elvara tranqed. Both she and the young witches looked a little green around the gills. Spike and Haakon went with them.” Cassandra said with a small smile.

"Wolf and Fahr went looking in the other rooms, they said there should be a library round here, and we waited while you had..." Methos checked his watch. "An early lunch."

"Glad you sent Elvara away; she tends to have a soft heart. Like her mother," Buffy's voice caught at the memory of Helga. "Travers was one of those that ordered her death. Justice has been served."

"And Alun?" Cassie asked softly.

“He took a long time dying. Father has taken his soul, no next life for him. The betrayal of the Priestess was more than we can ever let her know." She looked ferociously between Giles and Xander. "You never speak of anything you hear. Never."

Both men nodded, not willing to argue with her after what she had just done. While they hadn’t witnessed it, their imaginations filled in the details. Little did they realize that their imaginations fell short of reality.

“Let’s find the boys, and release the council’s prisoners. We’ll take them back to the house with us.” Buffy stated as she headed down the hall to where the cells were.

“Are you sure that’s wise?” Giles asked with a concerned look on his face. “Taking them into your home, where Joyce and the children are?”

“I can assure you, Mr. Giles, that Mother would not have suggested bringing them to her home if she thought they were a danger to anyone there.” Methos stated, shaking his head. “You are going to have to let go of the old council’s teachings. Ninety percent of what they taught was a lie anyway.”

"Ninety percent?" Buffy asked with a smile..."that's a bit of a low guess." she commented as she led the way towards the prison levels.

Fahr and Wolf stuck their heads out from behind one of the doors.

"I think you may want to keep Elvara out of this one,” Ritchie poke his head in, "Yep, definitely." he agreed.

Inside was a collection of antiquities, most of which were esoteric in nature.

"Isn't that a Tibetan Spirit knife?" Anya asked as she pointed at one wall.

"Mmhhmm, but we can catalogue it all later. Let's go and get the prisoners," Buffy ordered, pulling them away from the room.

There were demons of all sorts watching them as they went passed the glass walls. One stood over seven feet high and had lilac skin. He growled something at Buffy, who smiled and bowed.

"The Priestess will be back soon. We are with her. Let them all out boys, we can put them all in the van. I know the watchers had cars here; Spike and I will nick one and see you at home. Giles you and Xander are with me, until I can trust you not to do anything stupid to our guests."

Giles wanted to object at being lumped in with Xander, but in honesty he could see Buffy's point of view. He was council.

"You'd best take this one as well, Beebe. She's not too happy with me at the moment," Elvara said as she rejoined them.

Spike had a firm grip on the woman's arm as they marched her downstairs, and his fangs were showing.

"They'll kill me, don’t let those creatures out." she begged.

"You would treat E.T. with contempt," Elvara snorted. "He's vegetarian. And that one eats nothing but plankton." she pointed at a red skinned being.

Buffy shook her head and sighed. “Would almost serve her right if they did kill her...” her mind swam with images that the lilac skinned being had shown her. “Maybe later...” she muttered as everyone set about opening the cell doors.

Spike’s eyes widened as he recognized one of the council’s prisoners. “Bayan!?!” He shoved the human female at Methos and rushed over to the trembling female demon. Taking her gently in his arms he gave her a soft hug. “Are you okay? Did those bastards hurt you?” He released Bayan and deftly scooped the child from her arms, his eyes flashing at the residual wounds on the infant’s body. “Clem will be happy to see you.”

"Spike?" the floppy skinned demon said as though she couldn't believe her eyes. "There was a healer here, one of the Blessed Ones. She healed Clerise, but then she went somewhere. I thought we were never going to get out of here."

"Healer's just outside, Pet. She'll be glad to know you're both OK. Come on let's get you both out of here. Dawnie will be so pleased to see this one's OK." he hugged the child closely.

Elvara smiled as she saw how strong Bayan was, she was finding an excuse to touch each and every one of the prisoners, Anya at her shoulder. Willow and Tara were in awe of the power flowing through the woman.

Haakon was still grinning about the contents of the bag he'd been given. He was helping one of the other demons, supporting the beast under one of its tentacles.

Cassandra took over. "See to your lady before we're carrying her out of here as well." she ordered, taking his place at the demon's side.

Buffy led the way upstairs and into the hall; pulling her cell phone she gave the retrieval signal. There was a roar of motor bikes as a biker gang came round the corner, surrounding the van that Clem was driving. A Lamborghini Countach was right behind the van. The driver got out and threw the keys at Buffy who caught them deftly.

"A dragon said you might need back up, we've another bus on the way for the injured," he told Buffy just as a minibus drew up at the kerb.

"Service with a smile," Buffy laughed. She turned to Spike, “Give the little one back to its mother, unless of course you don’t want to drive?”

Spike carefully handed Clerise back to her mother and reached out to snatch the keys from Buffy. “Damned straight I’m driving!” He paused for a moment and then asked, “What are we going to do about the council broad?”

Methos grinned, “Since you seemed to have passed her off to me, I’ll take care of her.” He growled something to the slender, lizard-like being beside him. “My new friend and I will make sure she stays quiet.” He turned to the young lady. “Not a sound out of you. He hasn’t eaten in a while.” Turning to Buffy he said something in a guttural language which caused Buffy to laugh and nod her head.

“Mount up people, we have places to be.” She slipped into the sleek car and buckled up as Spike fired up the engine, almost purring himself at the sound of the motor.

“What did Methos say that was so funny?” Spike inquired as he pulled out into traffic.

“He said that we really don’t need to inform the twit that the B’sharn eats insects.” Buffy answered with a grin. Before they were out of sight of the building, Buffy waved a hand, putting her own wards around it. No one was getting in until she was ready.


Xander helped Anya onto the bus, Willow and Tara following. Elvara was still touching everyone she could. Methos growled, causing the woman he was holding to tremble and lay a protective hand on her abdomen.

The lilac demon took over from Methos in holding the prisoner, while the Immortal stormed across to Elvara.

"You stop that now, Little One, there is no-one knocking on death's door. They can all wait until you are stronger." He ordered.

Xander watched open mouthed, expecting Haakon to say something.

But the Soturi just nodded, "Told you," he commented with a smile

"Sorry, Pappa. I'll stop." Elvara actually looked a little shame faced.

"Pappa?" Giles gulped as he got onto the coach. "Pappa?"

"I raised her after her father was killed, and she'll go over my knee again if she doesn't stop healing everyone in sight soon. You’ll be exhausted for a month at this rate, Child.


Giles looked over at Haakon. “Did you know about this when you first got together with her?”

Haakon laughed. “I knew she had powerful family that would protect her no matter the cost to themselves. But that is not why I chose to come to her.” He smiled softly in remembrance. “When I first saw her, she glowed like the newly risen sun. It lit a fire in my soul, and drew me to her, even though I was just a young warrior in training.” He looked over to where Methos was softly reprimanding Elvara still. “I didn’t find out about HIM until after she had accepted me. And as much as the thought of Death chasing me if I hurt her scares me... Having Buffy mad at me terrifies me to my very core. But I would brave a thousand deaths to stand at her side.”


Giles looked at where Methos was hugging Elvara tightly. "I can understand that," he said softly. "Will you tell me about it at sometime? About the way the faith is in this day and age?"

Haakon nodded, "With Rakkaani's permission"


Anya sniffed, "That was beautiful," she whispered to Tara and Willow.


The witches both nodded.

Cassie looked at the love fest happening and rolled her eyes. "Enough people, let's get these good folks back to the house where we can all rest properly. I know I have a bullet in me that is going to start hurting like a bitch as soon as Elvara's blessing wears off, and personally I'd like to be stoned when that happens."

The comments caused laughter all round. Xander looked out of the window to see Clem letting one of the bikers drive the van, his arms wrapped around his sister and niece.

With a quick warning they were pulling away from the Watcher's HQ...

And into the London traffic, heading for home.

Giles looked at their prisoner. "What's your name?" he growled at her.

"Pamela Watkins," she replied, still nervous at the beings around her.

“Well Miss Watkins, I suggest you relax. I can promise you that nothing will happen to you, or your child.” Giles said in a firm, yet kind voice.

“At least not yet. Her final dispensation will be at Mother’s discretion.” Methos said as he slid into the seat next to Miss Watkins.

The woman shivered at the tone the blue painted man had used, she was terrified.

Spike was still purring, much to Buffy's amusement, as the Countache made its way down the mews road. He was obviously revelling in driving the powerful car. Buffy wondered what he would do when he saw what else she had stashed away in the garage.

"Buffy, how we going to get into the house, Pet?" Spike asked. Every sense was tingling; he could feel the wards from where he sat, they were trying to send him in the other direction like a mob was after him with garlic and flaming torches.

Buffy grinned and waved a hand nonchalantly. The wards fell from the garage doors. Buffy reached across and pushed a button on the fob. Spike chuckled as the doors opened and he was able to steer the car through them.

"Watch the ramp," Buffy warned as they headed into the dark.

Spike nodded and slowed, taking the powerful car down through the gears. The ramp kept going down. He looked around at the obviously custom built garaging. It was huge.

"We're right below the garden," Buffy explained. "Two floors down."

The two minibuses followed Spike and Buffy down into the garage, but the bikes peeled off after saluting the warriors. "See you at Bloodstock," one of the riders mouthed.

Elvara smiled and nodded, waving as the bus went into the dark.

Clem looking around nervously as they did so. At least his sister and niece were safe and Spike wouldn't let anything hurt them. Neither would the Priestess to the old ones. He shuddered slightly as they all dived into the cavern. He could feel the wards above them, and was glad he was on the same side as these powerful beings.

Everyone parked the vehicles and headed for the elevator at the far end of the underground garage. Before they could reach them, the doors sprang apart, disgorging 2 whirlwind blurs of flying reddish hair. Elvara and Haakon found themselves tackled by two young girls, who were alternately weeping and laughing.

Haakon looked between the two young women and then at their mother. "Our girls," he mouthed. Kissing first one and then the other. "My daughters." his voice cracking with emotion.

The sudden movement and noise caused more than a few of the non-human guests to cringe and cower back. It was the sight of the imposing figure that strode across the cement behind the girls that captured their attention and had them pressing forward almost as one being.

Buffy ran forward, yelling something at the top of her voice, Elvara less than a pace behind her. The huge man opened his arms and swept both women into them, covering the girls’ faces in kisses, laughing all the while.

Some of the non-humans had dropped onto their knees, others bowing low. Even Methos had dropped to one knee. Anya was grinning like mad. Giles looked for Haakon, only to see him bowing as well, his arms around the two girls. Everyone was talking at once. Giles and Xander didn’t recognise a lot of the languages.

Nordlys lifted Haakon's arm from around her shoulders and made her way over to where Wolf was standing. She held out her hand shyly. "Wolf?" she asked. "Am I still your mate?" Nordlys sounded almost frightened.

The were growled, but it wasn't an angry sound, more like a canine purr. "You smell even more delicious. More my mate than ever." He swept the young woman into his arms and held her close, nuzzling into her hair. "You are mine," he reassured her.

“I trust the problem with that band of schoolyard bullies has been dealt with?” the huge man asked, his deep voice rumbling through the underground garage like thunder.

“Buffy roasted them!” Spike said with a wry grin. “At least I think she roasted them... she might have ate them.” He shrugged nonchalantly, not really concerned either way. “Something they said, or didn’t say, pissed her off.”

“Temper got the best of you again, Daughter?” He turned his ebony eyes to Buffy, trying to be stern, but the grin twitching on his lips betrayed his inner mirth.

“Yes Father.” Buffy stated with a shrug. “At least I kept it confined to the one room this time.”

"Not like last time. We lost half a Russian forest when she threw a tantrum." Methos laughed, coming up alongside.

"And how's my Princess?" he asked Elvara, his arms still around her.

"Tired, Uncle. And glad it's all over. Alun's dead," she added. "And the spell he had on me is gone. I can talk about it now."

Draco nodded his understanding. "I have his soul. He will pay heavily for the torture he put you through. He will never hurt another."

"Thank you," the priestess said softly, leaning against him, and closing her eyes for a moment. "And thank you for the blessing of the girls. I'm glad they no longer carry his blood.

The huge man rested his chin on Elvara's head and seemed to be communicating with her on a totally different level.

They were disturbed by a squeal of excitement from Anya. She had taken a good look around the garage and the cars that it contained. It read like a list of the fastest and most prized supercars in the world, a Ferrari 360 Challenge Stradale sat next to a Lamborghini Diablo. An Aston Martin was parked next to a 1937 Rolls Royce. It looked like a petrol heads wet dream. "There must be five million dollars worth of metal in here," she sighed.

"Nearer ten," Richie told her as he escorted some of their visitors to the elevator. "There are some really old models in the back. Buffy's never thrown any of them away and she's been collecting them since the 1800's."

Giles was looking open mouthed at a red Maserati. He was actually drooling. Spike on the other hand had seen the bikes. He was purring, especially at the sight of a Vincent Black lightning, a cool half a million dollars worth of bike, sitting there waiting to be ridden.

"Who does the M.G. belong to?" the vampire pointed at the little green MG midget sitting in one corner. Its top was down and it was obviously used regularly from the dust on it and seemed out of place amongst all the supercars and classic bikes.

"Mama's," Nordlys said as she walked past. "That's her baby. Methos bought it for her seventeenth birthday. Wolf's got me the mini coop in the corner. He's going to teach me to drive as soon as it's legal."

“Cars... humanities way of committing mass suicide.” Draco rumbled, shaking his head.

“Just because YOU can’t drive, doesn’t mean that other people don’t enjoy it!” Buffy stated hotly, her hands on her hips. She turned to Spike and said, “He used to complain about my horses to. Said I was trying to get myself killed.”

“She was. Riding those ill-tempered beasts without any saddle or bridle.” Draco frowned.

Methos stepped up beside Buffy and said, “Don’t forget, I’ve seen the way you fly. She’s safer behind the wheel of a car, or on the back of a wild horse, than she would be riding you.” Having said this, Methos turned to escort Pamela to the elevator, confident he had gotten the last word.

“Impertinent whelp...” Draco muttered, his eyes flashing. With a devilish laugh he flicked a finger at Methos, setting the Immortal’s trousers on fire.

Methos let out a very un-warrior like yelp that caused everyone to laugh out loud.

"Uncle," Elvara said reprovingly, trying not to laugh out loud.

Giles gulped, "Somehow I don't think that's a nick name is it? I really want to get notes on all of this."

Haakon shook his head as they waited for their turn to go up to the house. "Later, Watcher. We're going to have injuries to deal with soon enough."

The elevator returned for them within a few minutes and Haakon escorted Elvara into it. Various demons stepped in with them, Katla and Nordlys waited with Wolf and Fahr for the next one. . Clem and his family still with their arms around one another stayed behind as well.

The doors opened into the main hallway, where Joyce was waiting for them. She walked over to Giles and wrapped her arms around him. “I’m glad you are back safely. Are you hurt anywhere?” She ran her hands across Giles’ shoulders and down his arms.

“I’m fine Joyce, not a scratch on me.” Giles pressed a kiss to her forehead and wrapped his arms around her.

Draco eyed the cuddling couple with some amusement. “Do I need to set down the rules for courting my granddaughter?” He laughed at the bug-eyed expression that overcame Giles’ face.

“Father, enough. While some of us know how to deal with your oft-times warped sense of humour...” Buffy started to say, but was cut off abruptly.

“I’m not Joking Daughter. He WILL treat her right, or I’ll be having myself a small snack.” Draco interrupted Buffy, a stern look on his face.

Joyce extracted herself from Giles’ embrace and turned to Draco. “And where were you when Hank was being an ass to me. Cheating on me, molesting our babysitter, and attempting to sell my daughter to a pack of demons.” Joyce asked in a tense voice.

Draco straightened rather abruptly, his eyes narrowing. “And why was I not informed of this?” He turned accusing eyes on Buffy. “And where is Hank now?”

“Problem solved Father. The demons are dead, and Hank is in the hands of the Wolf, the Ram and the Hart.” Buffy stated in a clipped tone of voice. “I take care of my own.” That said she turned away and stalked into the kitchen, where the various injured demons were being treated.

“Somehow I think I am in trouble.” Draco sighed. “Sometimes I wish she took more after me than after her mother.” .” His eyes misted over for a second as he remembered the mortal woman who had give birth to his daughter for him.


Joyce smiled softly, “But most days you are glad she does.” She softly patted his shoulder and followed after Buffy.

Draco hung his head and sighed. “Best follow and lend a hand, or I’ll be the one needing stitches...” He went into the kitchen, followed closely by Giles.

The room looked like some warped, Star Trekian E.R. Dawn was pouring vinegar on one poor unfortunates open wounds, but it seemed to sooth rather than hurt him.

Elvara was digging a bullet out of Cassie's shoulder; the woman was clinging onto Methos, slightly stoned. Elvara worked efficiently, and a skilfully as any surgeon. The two witches and Anya were helping where they could.

Xander was sitting with his leg up on a bench, a field first aid kit open and Nordlys was busy dressing the wound he had received.

Spike had collected all the weapons together, and looked around for Buffy but she was talking quietly to Richie.

"Can I help, Spike?" Katla asked when she noticed the look on his face.

"I need to put this lot away, but Buffy's too busy to open the door to the weapon's locker," he explained.

The young girl smiled. "If you don't mind nipping me, I can open it, but I don’t have a knife." she held out her finger to the vampire.

Spike doubted that it would work, Buffy had said the door openly opened to those who shared her blood, but he humoured the teenager.

He was the one surprised when it worked, the stairs to the cellar appearing in front of him. His confusion must have been apparent on his face because Katla grinned at him and said. "Mama and Buffy are real cousins you know. Mama's great something gran and Buffy's mum were twins. If you want to embarrass Granpa Draco, ask him about them. He goes bright red and huffs. It's fun"

“I’ll keep that in mind Pint-Size.” Spike reached out and ruffled her hair before descending to the weapon’s locker. There was a story he'd love to hear at sometime. Twins... He grinned as he made his way quickly down the stairs. He didn't want to be too long, he might be needed upstairs.

Xander cursed a little as Nordlys wrapped the bandages around his leg. Then he growled. It sounded almost animalistic.

Fahr and wolf both snapped their heads up at the sound. Katla looked intrigued. Instead of following Spike into the opened cellar she headed over to the young man, holding her hand out, as if for him to smell. "Why are you hiding in there?" she asked, squatting down in front of Xander. "It’s quite safe here."

"Katla come back from there," Joyce ordered the girl, heading towards her, but being restrained by Draco. He shook his head and motioned for her to listen.

"He's scared, Aunty Joy. He's got something hiding inside him and he's so scared. That's why he keeps snarling at Mama, he's frightened she's going to see what is hiding in there. He was told to keep it hidden and she's going to find out."

Xander pushed Katla over, "She's as crazy as her mother, there's no one here but me." he yelled, Methos stopped him actually hitting Katla, but the growl from Fahr was enough of a warning to stop him trying again.

"Shhh, it’s OK," Katla didn't even seem to notice the assault. She held out a hand and stroked Xander's face. "Now what are you? You feel like a cat, but not quite. It is safe here," she reassured Xander again.

The young man made a growling sound in the back of his throat and Katla answered in kind.

"Uncle Methos, there's a Hyena spirit in there, and he was told to hide. That’s why he's been so nasty to Mama; he was scared she'd see him and then he’d be in trouble."

Xander flushed, and shot a quick look at Giles who was busy cleaning his glasses

"Oh dear," was all that Giles could say.

Katla was still 'talking' in whatever language the spirit spoke, and Buffy wanted to laugh as Xander nuzzled against Katla's hand.

"No, I wouldn't do that if I were you, Fahr gets jealous." she said quite clearly in English.

Fahr cocked his head and studied Xander closely. “Nothing to be jealous of. He has already chosen his mate. Now all he needs to do is acknowledge it.”

Buffy turned burning emerald eyes on Giles. “Do you know what Katla means, about the spirit being told to hide?”

Giles stuttered and stammered, removing his glasses to polish them, and staring at the floor. “Well, ummm, right... it was like this...”

Willow glared at Giles and spoke over top of his stuttering. “It was a couple of years ago. Xander and a few others at the high school were possessed by hyena spirits.” She closed her eyes and sighed softly. “I’m not sure who instigated it, but they ate the principal.”

"That wasn't me," Xander protested.


Giles stammered some unintelligible words.

"What did you do, Watcher?" Haakon demanded.


Giles had never heard his voice so cold, it actually sent shivers up his spine. "When it was over, there was a lot of upset. I thought, it was for the best you understand..." He was trying to excuse himself.


"Xander tried to rape me," Willow said, her voice catching with unshed tears. Tara gripped her hand tightly, offering what comfort she could.


Fahr stared hard at the young man and shook his head. "No, He didn't. The spirit was trying to show you how strong a mate he would have made for you. But the idiot watcher told him to hide, to pretend it had never happened."


"You fucking idiot," Elvara shouted. She rarely swore. The words echoed around the room. She was furious. "You left a traumatized, vulnerable youth without any training."


Giles blustered again. "We got rid of the demon. It was gone."


Buffy shook her head in disbelief.


Draco was the one who spoke, "Once a demon has controlled a human like that, that you need someone with the power of a God or Goddess to completely clear it out. Which God did you ask to help? Because I know it wasn’t me or any of my kin." He turned to Xander. "Did you taste the human flesh?" he demanded.


Xander shook his head, still holding Katla's hand. The young woman was stroking it, soothing the obviously scared man.


"Well that's a relief, at least." Draco muttered as if to himself. He stalked over to Xander and grabbed a handful of the young man’s hair, yanking his head back so he could stare into his eyes. “Well well ... not gone at all are you little one.” He gently pried Katla’s hand away from Xander’s and motioned for her to move back. “Now, if you had asked when this first happened, it would have been possible to remove the demon. However, too much time has passed, and it... pardon, HE... has integrated himself into this young man’s psyche. Not completely, but enough so that any attempt at removal would render the young man a mental vegetable.” Draco released Xander’s hair and stepped back, shaking his head.

Xander bolted up from his chair and ran over to where Spike was standing, squeezing in behind him, so he was hiding. “Don’t let him do that to me Spike. Please...” Xander whined low in his throat, pleading.

Buffy reached over and took Xander’s hand. “He won’t, not without your permission Xander.”

“They say curiosity killed the cat, but...” Fahr paused and shook his head. “Why did he choose Spike to run to for protection?”

“Oh that’s easy, he sees Spike as a pack brother, an older sibling.” Katla said. "He's been treating us all like pack since the beginning, Mama he's not sure about, is she Alpha or intruder? It's left him completely confused. Nordlys is obviously old enough to start thinking about taking a mate, so he kept showing off, and the males are all higher in rank than him. It's easy."

"Only if you speak Hyena Katla and not many people do," Nordlys pointed out helpfully.

“Big brother huh? Well isn’t that neat.” Spike said with a chuckle. “Guess this means I have more family than I figured.”

Xander whimpered with relief as he was accepted by the vampire.

"But he's going to need training, a lot of training." Draco continued.

Katla went to move to the young man's side again but Fahr grabbed her and sat her on his knee. She didn't even notice when his arm changed into a paw to hold her down.

Haakon growled at the sight of his beautiful daughter sitting on a man's lap, but Elvara just smiled, it was nice to see him so protective.

"There's a few of us here that are used to living with a demon inside us, we’ll help him," Spike told the Elder God.

"See that you do," he instructed before turning to stare at Giles. "And you watcher? What's your excuse for your stupidity? And what other moronic decisions have you made?"

Giles swallowed hard. He wanted to remove his glasses and polish them, he didn't think it would stop the man in front of him getting scales on his skin; they weren't marks on his lenses they really were there.

" As fascinating as all this is, we're going to need all the information the council had just to see what other time bombs are waiting for us out there," Buffy sounded exasperated. She ran her fingers through her hair.

"Mora, you there?" she seemed to be addressing thin air.

She was answered by a giggle as a woman appeared from a blinding light. "You called cousin?"

Buffy smiled at the bubbly blonde that had manifested in her kitchen. “Yes, cousin. I called. We need to know what you gleaned from the twisted minds of those idiots.”

Mora giggled, causing every man in the room to flush and squirm. “You know my price cousin.”

Giles pulled of his glasses and stammered, “Price?”

Draco laughed a deep booming sound. “Little Sparkle, take care. Most here are in committed relationships.”

Mora pouted for a moment, and then she walked over to Richie and ran a finger down the side of his face. “I’ve never tasted one of his kind before. And it seems he has much to learn.” With that said, she vanished... taking the young immortal with her.

Haakon grinned at Elvara who was laughing loudly.

"I had better get some pain relief in for him," she commented.

Methos smirked, "I wonder how long he'll be missing for? Any bets?"

Xander looked at Spike who just shrugged. He had no more idea what had happened than the whelp did. All the vampire knew was that Buffy didn't seem too bothered by the apparent kidnapping.

"My niece is the personification of sensual love and sexual pleasure. All that will happen is that Richie will come back far more experienced than he left." Draco reassured the worried men.

Buffy grumbled, and then shouted. “And the information? Don’t make me come after you!”

A shower of pink sparkles danced across the island counter, leaving behind a rolled up parchment and the heady scent of roses in full bloom.

Buffy scowled at the overwhelming scent. “Trust Mora to soak the information in rosewater.” She scooped up the roll and tapped it against her opposite palm. Her attention was pulled from the roll, to the far corner of the kitchen, where the woman they had brought back with them had wedged herself up against a curio cabinet. “Elvara, we need to do something about her. Preferably before she passes out.”

Elvara nodded and took a couple of deep breaths. The whole atmosphere lightened considerably.

Moving slowly she approached the terrified woman. "Pamela, isn't it?" she asked softly.

The woman nodded.

"My name's Elvara. You are safe here. I know it looks scary." she held out her hand, taking her time.

"My baby," Pamela said, holding her hand over her abdomen. "They said it wasn't normal. They wanted to hurt my baby."

"No one here is going to hurt a child. I promise." Elvara gently touched the swollen stomach.

"I bet his father was very good looking, blond haired and green eyed"

Pamela nodded slowly, "How did you know?" she asked.

"Liosalfa, a light elf. He would have been very protective of you. What happened to him?"

Buffy tried to come nearer but Spike heard the woman's heart start to race and shook his head.

"I don't know," Pamela whispered. "They said I had to work in the offices or they wouldn't let me have anything to eat. I tried to escape."

Elvara wrapped her arm around the woman; rocking her back and forth.

Draco tapped his fingers against his chin, a thoughtful expression on his face. “I wonder...” Reaching out he snatched the scroll from Buffy and unrolled it, skimming it swiftly, looking for anything that might confirm his hunch. “Thought so.” He re-rolled the scroll with a decisive nod and walked over to where Elvara and Pamela were standing. He placed one finger beneath Pamela’s chin and raised her eyes to his own. “The child you carry, under my protection it is from this day forth.” A loud clap of thunder followed his words, proclaiming his oath. Turning to Elvara he said, “Take her upstairs to the Spring Room. She needs to sleep and heal.” Dropping his hand, Draco smiled at Pamela before walking back over to where Buffy was standing.

Nodding, Elvara started to help Pamela out of the room, when the young woman’s legs collapsed out from under her.

Haakon moved swiftly and scooped her up into his arms. “Lead on My Lady. I will follow.”

Seeing the distress in Pamela’s eyes, Elvara spoke to her softly. “He won’t hurt you, nobody here will hurt you.” She left the kitchen, followed by Haakon and the woman in his arms.

Joyce tried not to let her grin show. "Well we all know who the baby's Godfather will be now. And heavy on the God part."

"Going to tell me what that was about?" Buffy asked, absentmindedly stroking Spike's arm.

"Later, when Elvara is back." Draco said in the sort of voice that brooks no argument.

"Grandfather, is it safe for us to go back to the Mews?" Nordlys asked the Elder God.

"Go on child, you and your sister both. Take Dawn with you. Fahr and Wolf will stay with you." He kissed the three girls on the head before watching them walk back through the gardens. "They all grow up so quickly," he muttered.

Willow and Tara were speaking quietly with Xander, the boy still apologising to his friend. Tara left them to it, she knew she wasn’t needed.

Anya had been busy handing round drinks and the young witch went to help.

"Anya, can you explain about the family? I'm getting confused to who is related to who." Tara asked quietly.

Anya looked across at Buffy, who nodded, before turning back to talk to Draco. She handed Tara a cup of tea and commandeered one of the small sofas. "It's not hard, but it takes a minute. When the elder gods ruled, Draco became fascinated by the way the humans were developing, families and children. He asked the High Priestesses at his temple to consider carrying a child for him. Two agreed."

"Two? You mean he has another child somewhere?" Tara looked astounded.

"No, he doesn't. The two were identical twins, and sacred because of it. They looked a lot like Elvara does, but with lighter, more blonde hair. One was as gentle as a shower, as they used to say. The other was all fire and brimstone. Buffy's mother. When she became pregnant Draco offered her immortality, but she wouldn't leave her sister. So they raised Buffy between them for the first few years. And temple guardsmen were chosen to help protect them, they became the Soturi. With me so far?" Anya took a sip of her tea.


Tara nodded. "All clear so far."

"Buffy's aunt was needed to carry the next High Priestess. One of the guards volunteered for the job. Her line goes down to Elvara." Anya said with a chuckle.

"So Elvara is really related to Buffy?" Tara asked softly

"Yep, and about as close as you can be. The world was becoming too much for the Elder Gods, Chaos and destruction were making way for order, so they called the younger Gods into being. Mora is one of those, literally Cousin to Buffy." Anya shook her head with a wry grin.

"And Buffy has been keeping watch on her aunt's family ever since?" Tara looked thoughtful.

"Ever since. She would adopt kids that had been badly treated, or threatened, abused. Hence Methos and Joyce." Anya said with a pointed look at the two she had named.

"We heard about Joyce in Sunnydale." Tara reminded the ex-demon.

Anya nodded slowly. "When Helga and Hrolf were killed, Elvara wasn't even six years old. So Buffy looked after her as well. Helga knew she wouldn't live to see her child grow up and had asked Methos to protect her. Elvara calls him Papa when he nags her."

Tara looked at Anya, "How do you know all this?" she asked, a little unsure.

"Because as soon as Draco appeared in front of me, all my powers were returned. He is a God after all." Anya said with a smirk.

“Does this mean you are a demon again?” Tara asked eyes wide.
Anya opened her mouth to respond, but was interrupted by a wicked laugh coming from behind her. “She never stopped being a demon, her powers were simply bound.” Draco said, reaching out to ruffle Anya’s hair. “If she had been made human again, she would have aged roughly 1100 years in the span of a heartbeat. We couldn’t allow that.”

“You mean I could have died?!” Anya gasped in outrage.

“Unfortunately, yes. “ Draco said with a shrug. “But you didn’t, seems Mora claimed you as hers long before D’Hoffryn got his claws into you.”

“Explains why she’s so forthright about sex.” Spike said as he joined the trio.

“So what explains her desire for oodles of cash?” Xander said as he knelt on the floor beside Anya’s seat.

“Oh that’s simple. She’s been poor, and hated it.” Buffy said, wrapping an arm around Spike. “So she determined she would never be that again.”

"Nor will she ever be," Buffy added. "You have done great service to My Cousin. Service for which she thanks you. And she asks if you would continue by guiding the future head of the council while he learns his new skills."

"I would be most honoured, Buffy. But I don’t think I could teach Giles much." Anya looked stunned at the woman's words.

"Not the present head child, the future one." Buffy looked towards Draco, "Have I said too much Father?" she asked with a grin before looking pointedly at Xander.

Xander blinked in confusion, looking from Buffy to Anya and back to Buffy. He lowly started shaking his head, not in denial, but hoping to rattle some sense out of what he had heard. “You mean...? How? Why!?”

Buffy laughed the tinkling sound sending shivers down Spike’s back. “Yes Xander, you... in the fullness of time. It is my decision after all. As for why... that’s easy. Being as you are, with who your mate is, you won’t fall into the same idiocy as the former defunct heads did.” She smiled over at Giles. “And you will have a good man to guide you, train you, and make you read books!”

Draco laughed, “And Anya to keep him line!” Laughter filled the room, loud, raucous and real. It relieved the tensions far quicker than anything else could of.

Elvara smiled at the sound, as she came back into the kitchen to make a cup of herb tea for Pamela. When she took it back upstairs, the young woman looked at it suspiciously. "You'll find this soothes you, and eases the sickness. Can you tell me about the father?" Elvara asked

"We met when I was out walking a friend's dog. He was amazing. Tall, blond, with piercing green eyes. We talked almost nonstop and within a month he'd moved in with me. Then one night these men broke down our door and dragged us both out and to that place. I found out I was pregnant when I was there. Ashlin loved the idea of children. And he never knew." Pamela started crying again. "They made me work in the filing rooms, or they'd hurt me and the baby. I didn't mind about me, but I couldn't let anything happen to Ashlin's child. It was all that was left of him. They said they'd killed him."

"Light elves aren't so easy to kill," Elvara said almost to herself. "I wonder??"

“You mean he might still be alive?” Pamela asked hope warred with anxiety in her eyes. “Was he in one of the cells?”

“We didn’t find any elves in the holding cells, but I know someone who could find out where he is.” Elvara said with a gentle smile. “I’ll go and ask him. You need to get some rest, for your sake as well as for the little one.” Elvara stood up and moved towards the door. “You are safe here, safer than anywhere else you can imagine.” She gently closed the door behind her and headed back to the kitchen.

Hurrying back down stairs, she flashed Haakon with a beaming smile. "Guard her, My Soturi. She carries a light elf child in her body."

Haakon nodded once before taking his place outside the door.

Draco shot his head up as Elvara came into the room. "Princess?" he asked.

Elvara hurried across kneeling in front of the Old One. "Great Lord, I ask a boon of thee." In five thousand years it was only the third time one of the priestesses had ever requested a true favour from him. Elvara looked up into the God's face, before bowing her head again. “My Lord, I have served your family all my life. I took the mantle on when I was only five years old."

Giles gulped, she had been so young?

"I have served to the best of my ability. I ask a boon of you. The woman we saved carries the child of a true warrior of the light. She fears he is dead. The boon I ask, could you please search for the child's father, and bring him here, if it is possible.”

Draco looked down at the woman kneeling in front of him, his eyes sparking with ill-hidden mischief. “What a sight this is...” he dropped his hand and gently ran it over Elvara’s head. “Do you know how long it’s been since I’ve had a beauteous woman kneeling at my feet?” He grinned lasciviously, “I can think of a few things you can do while you are down there.”

“Father!” Buffy shouted, half laughing half outraged. “Rein in your libido long enough to answer her.”

Draco turned his head and winked at Buffy. “Forgive an old man for attempting to relive a few treasured memories.” He turned back to Elvara, “The cost of this boon will be high. It will mean giving up that which is precious to you.”

Elvara looked up into the eyes of the Elder God. She trusted him, body and soul. With tears in her eyes, she nodded. "Haakon?" she asked so quietly, it was hard to hear her. "I know he's not mine to keep? Or my own life? My daughter is so much older than I was when my parents were killed."

“The price is this, a child... a son. Born to thee and sired by your Soturi. He will be dedicated to me at his birth, and will become mine to train when he reaches the age of 6 years.” Draco raised Elvara to her feet and placed a gentle kiss on her brow.

"Will I see him again?" she asked as she nodded her head. It was a dream come true to give Haakon a son, but to lose him at such a young age would break her heart.

"Every day, Child. Just like Buffy saw her mother. Just because I train him doesn't mean that I will take him from you. The Soturi need new blood, new leadership. Alun proved that. And who better than the acknowledged son of the High Priestess and her Soturi?"

Elvara leaped to her feet and kissed Draco deeply. "Thank you," she whispered breathlessly.

Buffy sniffed and looked around for a tissue. Cassie passed her one.

"What about that scene has all the women so emotional?" Giles asked Joyce as she wiped her eyes as well.

"It's unheard of for a Soturi to be named as the father of a child. It's a sort of known thing, but the Priestess wasn't supposed to have just one man in her bed, or her heart. Draco has just told Elvara that Haakon and she have permission to stay in a monogamous relationship, officially."

“Well, it looks like we are going to need a bigger house.” Buffy stated with a laugh. “The mews house is defiantly not big enough, nor will this one be for long.” She turned to Willow and Tara, “How would you two like to finish your education here in England?”

“Is that even possible?” Willow said with an excited gleam in her eyes.

Anya snorted and shook her head. “Of course it’s possible. Lady Elizabetta can make anything happen.”

“Oh the joys of nobility.” Methos said with an exaggerated grin on his face.

"The joys of money, more like," Buffy grinned. "How about fine arts, Tara?"

The witch nodded, "I'd love that,"

"And Computer Sciences, Willow?"

Elvara grinned. "Joy, how do you think Dawn would like to go to Queen E's?"

"I couldn't afford that! It's the best boarding school in Europe." Joyce looked between Buffy and Elvara.

"Is that the only reason she is going to a public school in America?" Buffy asked.

Joyce nodded.

"You should have told me child. I would have happily paid. Well, I will now. Elvara get on the phone. Tell Mary and Wyatt we’re coming in. Then call the head and see if they've got a spare place. If Dawn doesn't want to board, even weekly, she can go in by helicopter every day. Its how Nordlys and Katla get there at the beginning of term anyway." Buffy started to make notes.

Giles stared at Buffy. "Queen E's?" he asked

"Queen Ethelberga's in York. It's where Joyce and I went to school. Buffy, I'll call the stables and ask them to send another mount for Dawn. I'm sure she'd want to have a horse there, my girls have."

"And the University of Lancaster for the witches." Said Buffy with a smirk.

"Can I ask where we're headed, pet?" Spike asked as he watched the interplay carefully.

"Quernmore, it’s a huge Georgian mansion Buffy owns in Lancashire. There are stables, a swimming pond, and cottages on the estate for those of you who aren't used to communal living," Elvara looked pointedly at Giles, before talking into the phone.

Spike’s lower jaw dropped open and a look of shock flashed through his eyes. He remembered Quernmore Park from his days as a human. He had heard about the parties held there, but had never been invited to any of them, due to his father’s demise. "Quernmore? When did you buy that?" he asked, intrigued at the thought of finally visiting one of the most beautiful houses in Lancashire.

"Buy it? Mother had it built for her in the late fourteen hundreds, then had it redesigned a few times," Joyce said with a smile. "Do you still have the horses there?"

Buffy nodded. "And I have one of the few approved breeding stallions outside of the Netherlands."

“What kind of horses?” Tara asked quietly.

“Giant black monstrosities...” Draco muttered under his breath and casting a wary look at Buffy.

“I breed Friesian horses, have done so for years.” Buffy said with a shrug. Turning to Draco she smirked. “And it’s not their fault that you are scared of them.” "If you hadn't annoyed Epona that time she wouldn't have made you impotent. You know how protective she is of her horses."

Draco shrugged, it was a fair point.

"I like Friesians," Tara said, "I've always wanted to ride one,"

"Buffy has hundreds of the monstrosities. I'm sure she can find you one that will behave."

“Hardly hundreds, a few dozen at most.” Buffy laughed. “And they all behave like the ladies and gentlemen that they are.”

Elvara hung up the phone and turned to Buffy. “Mary will inform the staff of our arrival, and Wyatt is going to find a lad for Dawn to ride.” She grinned and continued, “Mary is in a right tizzy, she didn’t even know you were in country until just now.”

Buffy closed her eyes and shook her head. “I’m in for it now. She’s going to go on a rant at me.”

Elvara just grinned, "You promised to visit next time you were in Europe, buy her a nice something for her greenhouse and tell her it was a surprise visit."

"I think that's how she gets most of her orchids," Buffy laughed. "Don’t forget to inform the Foreign Office you are changing addresses. They'll want to increase security in the area." she reminded Elvara.

Giles looked from Buffy to Elvara and back, a puzzled frown on his face. “Why would the Foreign Office need to increase security? Is there something you aren’t telling us?”

Elvara looked quite uncomfortable for a few moments, and Spike could hear the rise in her heart rate.

"Technically they have to know where my sister is living, she is, after all a reigning monarch to her people." Joyce said with a nonchalant shrug.

Giles just stood there, blinking in shock, his mind having gone utterly blank. He looked on the verge of passing out, but was saved by Xander’s loud exclamation. “Holy Frijoles Batman! I was insulting a queen?!?!”

Technically a supreme holiness, like the Dali Lama or the pope," Buffy said, as she went back to reading the parchment her cousin had left. "But yes, you were."

"Am I supposed to bow or something?" Willow whispered to Tara.

"I think we curtsy," Tara whispered back.

Draco turned his ebon eyes on Xander. “You seem quite concerned about the insults you paid to Elvara, but...” and here something flashed in his eyes, “you seem to have forgotten the insults you paid to the daughter of one who can and will eat you as a mid morning snack.”

Spike chuckled, “How’s your cholesterol levels? Snacking on Xander could send them into orbit.” That was enough to send everyone else into howls of laughter and leave Xander cringing in embarrassment.

Draco reached over and ruffled Xander's hair, making the man preen under his touch.

Spike just looked around the room, taking note of the atmosphere. Buffy seemed tired, more so than usual.

"You OK, Pet?" he asked as he leaned over her shoulder to read the papers her cousin had left,

"Fine, I just can't believe the idiocy of the council...They have been experimenting with mixing demon species, even those that are incompatible, misusing magic, they even tried to tap into the power of a couple of Hell mouths. And they've been trying to find a Key to the Gateways, to open up other dimensions. It's a wonder any of them survived the last few years. I am going to have to keep a far better eye on the new council."

"Well hopefully they won't be so stupid," Giles commented.

Buffy quirked one eyebrow at Giles. “I’m sure you won’t be.” She stated before going back to reading the parchment.

Giles’ mouth dropped open and his eyes looked like they were about to fall out of his head. “Whaa...?

Joyce smirked at his expression, "Don’t worry dear, You'll have a direct line to a few Gods for when you try and screw up, I'm sure they'll keep you on the straight and narrow."

Spike burst out laughing, "Just think about all those books, Watcher. They'll keep you busy."

"And I think you and I should take over training the new Slayers in combat techniques for a few years," Buffy said, as she looked straight at Spike. "Teach them the difference between the different kinds of demons."

It was Xander's turn to laugh, and he spluttered something that sounded suspiciously liked "Whipped."

“Wh...Where is Haakon?” Tara asked with a small stutter. “Shouldn’t he be here too?”

Draco snapped his fingers, “Knew I forgot something!” He clasped his hands together and they started to glow. When he pulled them apart... a shimmering portal formed in the middle of the kitchen.

Anya actually whimpered when she saw the handsome man who appeared.

Buffy grinned at Spike as the elf scented the air. She leaned over and whispered in his ear, “Remind you of anyone?”

"Pamela?" he sniffed again. "Pamela," he shouted as he raced out the room.

Spike could hear him racing through the house, calling for his mate. “Did a Lord of the Rings reject just run through here?”

“Nah, just your twin,” Xander said with a laugh. “You know, if you had pointy ears, and were a natural blonde.”

“Hey! It is natural!” he exclaimed, causing everyone else to burst out laughing.

“About as natural as Buffy's.” Draco ducked as his daughter threw him a filthy look, grateful it wasn't something sharper.

Haakon arrived to find the whole family laughing and joking, Elvara's face broke into the most amazing smile the minute she saw him.

“Haakon, rakkauteni, mieheni,” she whispered softly as she held onto him.

Haakon looked shocked. “Lady, you must not speak so,” he said looking worriedly at Draco.

The God grinned, “I'll leave you two to talk. I've got a few idiots to take care of.” And with that he vanished from sight.
Cassie smirked as he vanished. “Draco going to play?” she asked as she started to round up the occupants of the room.

“Yup!” Buffy said, popping the ‘p’. “As to where he went,” she chuckled. “He’s having a blast. Seems the council tossed the elven warrior into a portal. Father is simply dealing with the miscreants who were holding the elf captive. Seems like they didn't check what they'd got hold of. White elves have been known to destroy worlds to recover one of their own," Buffy explained to a confused looking Tara and Xander.
“Good job Elvara offered herself for him then, I wouldn't want to see this ...” Xander slowed down as the warrior turned to face him

“You did what, My Lady?” His voice cold and hard, causing Elvara's heart rate to increase and a wave of fear flow from her.
Spike growled, but the Soturi wouldn't be intimidated. "She offered her life for the Lord of the Rings reject a minute ago," The vampire said.

Haakon looked over at the vampire, before wrapping Elvara more tightly in his arms to hold her close. "You should have offered my life, not yours," he whispered.

"I could never lose you, never." Elvara told him, her love reflected in her eyes.
“And you think I could lose you. Lady you are my heart and soul. If I could I would proclaim it before the world, just how much I love you.”

“That's what I wanted to talk to you about.” Elvara took a deep breath. “Draco has decreed my future. Our future.”

Although Spike was being hustled out of the room, he could feel the tension in the air.

“What has the Divine One ordered? What price did he demand for his aid?”

“The best of demands,” Elvara looked up at the warrior with tears in her eyes. “He, he...” her voice broke with emotion.

Haakon shook, as he waited for the news to be given to him.

Anya took pity on the couple. “He wants you to knock Elvara up and dedicate your acknowledged son to him, when he's born. He will teach him to be a true warrior for the light.”

“He wants me to give you a son for him to raise?” Haakon asked hopefully. Then the rest of Anya's words sank in and he yelled at the top of his voice. “An acknowledged son? For Truth, My lady?”

“For truth, I have been told I can. Just you and me, acknowledged by all. And we will raise our son; he just wants to train him.” Elvara started crying. It was all her dreams and hopes come true.
Draco appeared back in the room with a very self-satisfied look on his face and licking his lips.

"Well that will save having to feed him later," Anya joked as she finally managed to drag Xander out of the door. “I want to stay and listen too, but we can go and have orgasms now if you leave them alone,” she hissed.

Draco looked between his daughter and Elvara. “She told the lad then?” he asked unnecessarily.

Buffy nodded as she leaned back against Spike.

The vampire took the opportunity to nuzzle into her. "You smell good enough to eat," he told her with a smile.

“It's a true reward for you both, You will be mother and father to the new Soturi, Your first born son will lead them with honour and he will live for many many years. Child, come here," he ordered.

Elvara obeyed instantly. “I'm please that my line is of value to you,” she said as she went to kneel at the Dragon-God's feet.
"It is not your line that is precious. It is you. You are family to Buffy and to me; but we should acknowledge it more often. You work for us, keep our homes, and ask for so little in return. Know that you are blessed above all others," He held out his arms to her.

With a sob Elvara ran into them. Draco lifted her chin and looked into her eyes; he could see the pain in them, and the fear. "Haakon is not Alun. He will not leave you, nor will he ever abuse you as that man did. You will give him sons and daughters and when the time comes to leave this world you will both come and live in mine. You will never be parted, my precious niece." He motioned Haakon closer and when the warrior came close enough he grasped the man’s left wrist in his hand. Setting Elvara back from him, he grasped her left wrist in his other hand. “Let this be a sign, to all who would question, a bond set in the soul, forged by divine power.” He winked at Elvara, causing her to giggle. “Let any who dispute this bond, be brought to face me.” As he spoke the words, silver and ebon flames twined themselves around the wrists he was holding, forming an intricate tattoo, each a mirrored reflection of the other.

Buffy sniffed deeply causing Spike to chuckle. “Come on, Pet. Let's leave them to their privacy,” he suggested.

Buffy nodded and allowed her lover and love to lead her to her room.

Spike led Buffy up the stairs, intent on taking her to her room for some much needed rest. Of course he also had something else in mind, before they slept.

Buffy, however, detoured down the opposite direction, pausing outside a closed door, before knocking softly. “Air aelaeseirol ojae?” she asked softly.

The door opened slightly and the bright green eyes of the elven warrior met Buffy’s gaze. His lips quirked into a smile, and he nodded slightly. “Pamela air maedol bryn. Sal o thys sajol tasi os caes.”

Buffy smiled back and replied, “Shi eisi eir kyl sai kaer mysti vaer byrn. Sher pyl caerorari sai shaji iar ais o baer eileirol.” With a nod, she turned away from the door and headed back to Spike, hearing the door shut and the click of the lock.

“What was that all about love? I didn’t understand a word of it.” Spike asked, his head cocked to one side.

“Nothing much, just asking if they were okay, and letting them know to wake me if they needed anything.” Buffy said with a shrug.

Spike nodded and kept walking; he could hear quiet whispers from behind the door. Pamela's voice sounded soft and content from the tone. A giggle rang out and Spike grinned.

Buffy rolled her eyes. "It's always the same when Mora visits. Everyone's at it for weeks."

"Shall we join them?" Spike asked, raising one eyebrow.

Spike closed and locked the door behind him as he followed Buffy into their room. He didn’t know what was going on, but he knew that he wanted to get her naked as soon as possible. Hell, not even necessarily completely starkers, just enough for access. With his eyes fastened to her luscious arse, encased in her black leather pants, he followed her as if in a trance. His hands started on the buttons of his own shirt,”Fuck this," he said ripping the material before grabbing Buffy and throwing her on the bed. Talons grew out of his fingers in place of his nails and he shredded the leather.

"HEY! Those were my favourite pants!" Buffy shrieked as she felt them ripped from her body. She retaliated by extending her own talons and shredding his beloved black denim jeans.

Buffy didn't have much time to say anything else as Spike pounced on her, holding her down to the bed. He growled and the noise went straight to her womb, and Spike could smell her musk in the air.

"My Lady likes it a little rough at times? Maybe it's your turn to be the sub."

"You think you have what it takes to make me submit?" Buffy asked with a smirk.

"I know I do," he growled, then started tickling her mercilessly.

"EEP!" Buffy started squirming in attempt to dislodge Spike's tickling fingers. "Noooo!" She started giggling almost uncontrollably, and decided to retaliate by lightly running her sharp nails across Spike's muscular buttocks.

A low rumbling growl spilled forth from Spike’s lips when he felt the tips of Buffy’s nails lightly score the skin on his arse. “Playing with fire little girl.”

“Fire pretty...” Buffy whispered softly before arching up to gently kiss him.

Spike took an unneeded breath, "Fire consumes," he whispered huskily.

"Any time," Buffy told him, turning her head to give him access to her throat.

With a minuscule shake of his head, Spike slipped into his vampiric visage, his amber eyes locked on Buffy’s vulnerable throat, the veins throbbing in time to her heartbeat. Lowering his head, he rumbled in her ear, “Are you sure love?”

Buffy slipped one if her hands up to caress the short hairs on the back of his neck, before gently tugging him closer to her neck. “Very sure, absolutely positively sure, so sure that I’m positive the world could end and I would still be sure.”

A chuckle escaped Spike’s lips as he pulled back and looked into her eyes. “Then let’s do this right...” With a deft twist of his hips, he settled between Buffy’s thighs, the head of his engorged cock pressing lightly against her wet opening. Rubbing himself against her, he dropped his mouth to her throat and ran his roughened tongue across her pulse point.

Buffy started to mewl softly, arching against Spike, trying to impale herself on him, but to no avail. Just as she reached the point where she was tempted to flip him over, he did something that caused a loud shriek to rip from her mouth.

Spike felt Buffy tense beneath him, and knew it was time. With a feral snarl he plunged his cock into Buffy’s tight pussy, ripping through her restored virginity; at the same time as his fangs ripped into the thin skin of her throat, piercing her carotid artery. He bucked as the rich blood hit the back of his throat. He could feel it flooding into his body. Spike growled and bit a little deeper, not drinking but holding Buffy still with fangs and talons as his cock began to take her.

Buffy fought slightly, and then relaxed under him, allowing her mate to take control. That subtle surrender was all spike needed.
He drove into her, hard, forcing her over the edge into a quick orgasm before taking his time to build the next one in her body.

~*~*~*~*~

Tara and Willow went up the broad stairway hand in hand. They had seen and heard so much in the last few hours.

"I wonder if she would be willing to teach me?" Tara whispered.

"Who?"

"Elvara, she knows so much about the Goddesses, I was wondering if she would teach me about it,"

"I'm sure we could ask her, but not tonight," Willow giggled.

Tara smiled shyly. "No, not tonight."

Willow turned and kissed her passionately before skipping off to the room they shared.

~*~*~*~*~

Wolf prowled around the Mews House. He knew that Haakon and Elvara had returned earlier and could hear them as they loved one another. They had forgotten even a basic silencing spell. His feral face grinned, barring his teeth.

There was the pad of paws behind him and Fahr appeared at his side. The two weres went back to being human.

"I can smell her," Fahr said. "She's growing up so quickly. It's going to be a hard few years. How did you cope?"

Wolf looked at his friend. "It's always worse when Mora has been around, but just let Katla's scent wash over you and it will help. Feel how happy she is just to have you close. You will know when the time is right to take her as your true mate. Nordlys and I have chosen the week before she goes to University; after her mother has bound us one to the other."

Fahr nodded his understanding. "Just a few short years then for me."

Turning back into their true shapes the two males made their way upstairs and curled up beside the bed that contained their mates and Dawn.

~*~*~*~*
Haakon interwove his fingers with Elvara's and raised her hand to his lips.

"You truly are My Lady now," he whispered.

"No regrets?" Elvara asked, raising her eyes to his.

Green eyes gazed deeply into brown. “I love you, My Lady. And I have for years. This is, truly, a dream come true for me. I will honour and cherish you for the rest of our lives. I promise you that.”

Linking his fingers with her he led her back to the mews house and the bedroom they had shared for five years. Elvara went to open the door but Haakon stopped her.

“It's traditional for me to carry you,” he reminded her in a voice full of emotion. Haakon lifted Elvara into his arms and kissed her deeply as he carried her across the threshold of her room. A bottle of Cristal Rose sat in a wine cooler, with two flutes beside it and a bouquet of roses rested in the centre of the bed.

“I will have to thank Draco tomorrow,” Haakon said as he laid his precious burden in the centre of the bed. He started to unbutton the front of her blouse, kissing each part of her skin as it was exposed to the air. Freeing a breast from its confines he suckled on her nipple causing Elvara to arch off the bed. His hand freed her other breast, strong fingers playing with the bud until it stood hard and proud in his sight.

“I can't wait to see you feed my child from your body, Even the thought turns me on.”

His hands undid the zip that held up her trousers and he pulled them off of her legs, taking her knickers at the same time. Elvara undid the front clasp of her bra and shrugged it off before lying back down on the bed like some sort of sacrifice.

Haakon knelt up between her legs and stripped off his shirt. Elvara drank in the sight of the beautiful man above her. It never grew old. The temple tattoos ran up one arm and across his chest. She knew them better than the ones that decorated her own body. Haakon undid his own jeans and allowed Elvara to push them passed his hips. He kicked them the rest of the way with his legs. His erection stood proudly out from his body, the tip already leaking precum.

Haakon looked across at Elvara and smiled, she actually seemed nervous.

“Do you want this?” he asked softly. “Do you want to carry my child? My son?”

“More than anything. I dreamed of it for years, but never believed it could happen. I have had the two daughters that are normal for my position. I didn't dare hope...”

Haakon leaned in and kissed her. It started gently, a reassuring kiss, but as their lips touched he could feel the fire start to build in his groin. She had been his muse, his dream since he had first seen her as a boy. He had fallen in love with her then, and nothing had changed in the last twenty years. She was still as beautiful as she had been in the early days. Her hair untouched by time, her skin flawless. Age had merely added depth and richness to her appearance.

Elvara sat up slightly and licked the fluid from the flesh. She always loved the taste of it. Salty and masculine. She would have taken him deep into her mouth, but Haakon needed to be inside of her. To be making love to her, possessing her body with his. He needed to feel her around his cock as he buried himself inside her depths.

“Later,” he whispered as he pushed her back down. “I need you.” A hand snaked between them and he tested her readiness to accept him. She was so wet; he could smell her wonderful musk as he moved her nether lips apart.

Haakon lined himself up and allowed the tip of his cock to sink into her welcoming depths. He knew his lady well. She always needs a few seconds to become accustomed to his girth. Her eyes widened at the first intrusion, then began to cloud over as he moved his hips in the age old dance, letting her body drag him further and further in.

“Rakastan sinua, kuningatarni.” (I love you, My queen)

Elvara kissed him, her tongue caressing his as she let herself be taken by this incredible man. Haakon angled his thrusts so that they hit the elusive spot within her body. He could feel her legs around his hips, pulling him deeper and deeper. She moaned as he hit her cervix on the deepest of thrusts. His pubic bone massaging her clit each time he moved.

Elvara moaned and groaned as he pushed her higher and higher. She could feel the orgasm approaching and knew it would be a strong one. Haakon moved sharply and she saw lights behind her closed eyes, her hands spasmed as she dug her nails into his back. The shock of the sudden pain sent him over the edge and he sent spurt after spurt of thick seed into her welcoming and fertile body. He could feel her womb drink it up greedily, sucking him dry.

Elvara relaxed into a torpor, and wrapped her arms around her beloved Soturi, pulling him in close.

He was still inside her when they both fell asleep, his head resting on her breast, her legs wrapped around his. . He didn't see the warm red glow settle onto his lady's abdomen and settle into her body as the new life started within her.

~*~*~*~*~

Giles could smell breakfast being cooked as he came downstairs from the room he shared with Joyce. He felt a little stiff after all the exertions the night before. Joyce was soaking in the bath and had told him to fetch her a coffee. He didn't mind running around after her occasionally. Especially after the night she had given him.

Unexpectedly it wasn't Elvara wielding the frying pans, but Methos and Spike. There was another, unknown male sitting with Draco, helping himself to the pancakes that were piled high on the table.

“I'd leave some for the children, Mor. You really don't want Nordlys shouting at you again” Methos grinned.
The handsome man laughed. “Once was enough. How is the little termagant?”

“Happy and with her life-mate. She's heading for university this year, early.” Methos answered as he piled another plate high with crispy bacon and sausages.

“And her mother?”

Giles could hear the softness that had appeared in the stranger's voice.

“Is her mother well?”

“Very well. Elvara is happier than ever,” There was warning in Methos' tone. “Despite the energy she expelled yesterday she is happy. Mor, please,”


“What is spoken between the Priestess and me is for us to know and not you, Immortal,” Mor growled

Draco echoed the growl but it seemed to be directed at the new arrival and not Methos. The Elder God said something in a language Giles had never heard before, and the other man replied.

“Morning, Watcher,” Spike called out alerting the men already in the kitchen to his arrival.

“I've come for coffee,” Giles explained.

Spike waved a hand in the direction of the machine. “It's all set up. Help yourself and tell Joyce that breakfast will be ready in about ten minutes, would you?”

Giles nodded and made his way back upstairs. Joyce was just brushing her hair in front of the mirror when he opened the door. She smiled her thanks as he handed her the steaming mug.

“Is Elvara down already?” she asked.
“No, Spike and Methos are cooking and there is a stranger here. He seemed, I don't know, different. Draco knew him and said something in a language I have never even heard before.” Giles kissed Joyce's neck.
“A stranger? What did he look like?” she asked as she sprayed a bit of perfume on and checked her reflection one last time.

“Male, longish dark hair, olive skin, good looking I suppose,” Giles told her.

Joyce's face broke out into a grin. “I wonder if it could possibly be...” she kissed Giles' cheek as she hurried from the room and ran downstairs. Giles followed more slowly.

He could hear the squeals of delight as he descended the last step.

The man had his arms wrapped securely around Joyce's waist and was hugging her closely. The look on his face was one of pleasure bordering on desire.

“Mor, Stop it,” Joyce laughed. “I can feel you.”

A second squeal and Elvara was running over to the new arrival. She stopped short of him, waiting for his signal.

The man let go of Joyce with one arm, and held it out for Elvara.

“Two beautiful women in my arms, what more could I want?” he asked the men in general. “Maybe them in my bed?”

Haakon clenched his jaw, hard.
“Behave, Mor.” Joyce slapped his arm, causing the man to laugh.
Elvara's reaction wasn't what he expected. She stood quietly, her head bowed. “By your command, Great One,” she whispered.
Immediately the whole of Mor's body language changed. He signalled to Haakon who moved to Elvara's side. Giles was curious enough to get closer to listen in.

The man had put his hand on Elvara's shoulder and the other to lift her chin.

“Not a command, child. Never as a command.” He took Haakon's hand in his and placed it on top of Elvara's “To this man, and this man alone, I relinquish my prior claim.” Their hands seemed to glow for a few seconds.

“How many Gods are going to bless your union, Little Sister?” Cassie asked from the doorway. “Most people make do with a priest in a church, but not you. You get one of the elder god's to do it, then one of the younger. Are you going to ask Mora for her blessing as well?”

Elvara didn't answer, she just blushed.

“My sister can give her own blessings to my beloved and treasured Elvara,” the man, God! said. “I should have taken you as my own all those years ago,” he added to the blushing woman. “But I'm glad I didn't. I could never have made you as happy as this man has.” He turned to Haakon, “But you upset her and I will have you praying for death.”

~*~*~*~*~*~*

Giles looked puzzled, and Spike could almost smell his confusion.

“What's up, Watcher?” he asked as he slid another plate onto the table.

“Prior Claim? I've never heard the term before.”

Spike raised one eyebrow and put on his best, educated accent.

“In medieval times, there was a reason a king wanted a virgin for his bride. Any man she'd been with before had a prior claim to her body. Couldn't be done for adultery if she'd already been with the guy; and he could come back at any time. Widows and virgins only,” he explained.

“So Mor..?” he wanted to ask the question but was unsure how to phrase it.

“Mor, Male personification of sex and sensual love was Elvara's first lover, yes. |Now if you've any more incredibly personal questions about my family,” Buffy answered as she came into the room.

Giles blushed and stammered, “I didn't mean, what I mean to say is. Oh Shit!”

“Yep, that just about covers it nicely,” Spike smirked as he handed Buffy a coffee.

~*~*~*~*~*

Elvara took over the kitchen as soon as the clearing up had been done by Giles and Xander. The priestess had a gentle glow about her as she started to prepare lunch for all the residents of Belgrave Square. She seemed to automatically cater for all the different diets that were needed. Weres, elves, immortals, vegetarians and carnivores alike would find something they liked on the table.

Xander happily helped carry plates and cutlery to the table as Elvara handed over dishes to whoever happened to be nearest. She didn't differentiate between human and god. Draco was told to carry a dish straight from the oven, his hands impervious to the heat.

“And what have you got for me?” purred a voice in Elvara's ear.

She turned to grin at Mor. “The prawns and lobster on ice. That should cool you down,” she said with a smile.

Mor barked out a laugh. “Yes, my darling,” he told her grabbing the platter and heading for the huge dining room.

“He's still flirting,” Haakon commented as he waited his turn to carry something through.

“He will always do that. When I'm a hundred he will still flirt. I don’t think he knows how to talk to a woman without making some comment to her.” Elvara kissed her husband softly. Husband. What a wonderful word. After all these years she could call him husband.

Lunch was filled with laughter. Mor flirted outrageously with all the women, Pamela blushed and the elf growled at him, but the Younger God ignored the protective male.

Buffy and Cassie gave Elvara a very pointed look when she refused the lobster.

"I thought it was your favourite," Joyce said in a puzzled voice.

"It is," Elvara lowered her eyes slightly, and then looked pointedly at Haakon; who was grinning wildly.

Joyce noticed that the handsome warrior was holding Elvara's hand, which was lying on her lower stomach.

"No shell fish or soft cheeses for you for the next nine months then," Joyce echoed the smiles on the other women's faces.

Willow and Tara helped clear the table, making Xander carry his fair share. The young man wondered into the kitchen, hi hands full of dirty dishes.

Xander placed his burden on the table and looked back into the dining room. Elvara and Haakon were standing very close to one another. A bomb could have gone off and they wouldn't have noticed.

“I get he loves her, and I get she's special; but he looks at her like she is the most beautiful woman in the world,” Xander said quietly. He was trying to understand.

Draco and Mor looked at one another for a few seconds, Anya and Willow just knew that were communicating with one another on a level no human could comprehend.

“Boy, come here,” Draco ordered.

Xander trotted over like a puppy, Spike snorted.

“Let me show you what we see when we look at Elvara.” He laid a hand on the young man's forehead and drew it over his eyes. He then turned him to look at the lovers.

Xander fought the urge to shield his eyes, Elvara glowed, literally glowed. The love she felt for the man in front of her shone out like a beacon in the darkness. Tendrils reached out to those around her, wrapping themselves around her family, protecting them and loving them. He watched as she automatically healed the minor aches and pains that they still had, almost unconsciously soothing their souls at the same time.
“And when she makes love with you, to you, her power is a hundred times greater, you are bathed in it, even as a god it empowered me,” Mor explained; his eyes became unfocused as his memories over him.
"Once every twenty generations or so comes one who is that pure. Add to that the fact her body has housed a goddess since she was a child; and you are left with a shining one, someone who evil literally cannot corrupt. Her soul is as pure as they can be on earth; her son will be a remarkable man, one who will change a lot of attitudes just by being." Draco continued.

Xander nodded his understanding, the demon inside of him seeing Elvara as pack for the first time. Xander looked back for one last glimpse of Elvara's true self, "No wonder he loves her. I hope she forgives me for my stupidity,"

“She already has.” Draco touched Xander chest lightly. “She sees what is in here, what really is. Only sometimes what she sees conflicts with what she feels.

Xander ducked his head and smiled sheepishly. “Pesky feelings... more trouble than they are worth sometimes.”
"Try saying sorry, or do what I do and make her a cup of tea. It's worked for the best part of twenty years."

"I give her presents," Mor told him sagely. "Last time I messed up, I bought her that pretty house in France."

“Tea, I can do tea. ‘Cause the Xan-man is not of the major money having.” Xander said with a wry grin.
Joyce placed a gentle hand on Xander’s shoulder and murmured softly. “Why don’t you use what you are good at and make her something? She mentioned the other day that the posts on her Osberg Loom have splintered.”
Xander’s eyes widened and then narrowed in thought. “I’ll need to see it, but I’m sure I can come up with something...” he wandered off, deep in thought, plans already forming.

"She's always loved hand-made gifts. Said the time was the gift as well as the object," Joyce told him.

"I could find some pictures on the internet," Willow added coming into the conversation.

“There is the workshop at Quernmore, since you will all be moving there shortly.” Draco said with a gleam in his eyes. “I’m sure Wyatt won’t mind if you use his tools.”

"What's an Osberg loom? Why Osberg? Why not a Stockholm loom? They could hear as Xander and Willow wandered off.

Joyce laughed, "We may not see him for days."

Anya looked over at Joyce with a pout. "Neither will I. And I want my Xander-induced orgasms!"

He'll come back happy and more inclined to give you orgasms" Joyce laughed.

"She's been asked to weave some tablet braid for the museum in Stockholm, I'm sure she would love a new loom to do it on." Draco added conspiratorially as Elvara and Haakon headed over.

“It’s been arranged, we’ll be heading out tomorrow.” Haakon said as they neared the small group.
Anya gave a squeak and hurried out of the room, muttering about needing to pack.

~*~*~*~*~*~*

Giles watched in awe and admiration at the almost military precision with which the household was packed up, ready for the move. At precisely eleven A.M. two pantechnicon vans pulled up outside the house and within five minutes boxes were leaving. The roar of engines alerted him to the arrival of the cars from the garage. Spike oversaw their loading. Making sure that the Lamboughini suffered no damage.

"Giles, have you had chance to study the portrait or would you like us to take it with us?" Elvara asked as yet another load of belongings headed out of the door.

“I would love to be able to study it some more, if it’s possible.” Giles said with a bit of a sheepish look on his face. “If it’s no bother, I mean.”

“Not a bother at all, we’ll just have it packed in with the rest of Buffy’s stuff.” Elvara motioned to one of the movers and informed him that the portrait would be going as well.

Mid-day saw police arrive on motorbikes. Spike seemed uneasy in their presence, a little nervous of any sort of officialdom.

"We've permission to start through London at twelve thirty precisely. What cars will you be driving?" the inspector was asking. "The helicopters are due at the heliport at One fifteen."

"We'll be riding the bikes. The Chinook can take all of them; it will save having to have the cars picked up. I'm sure Ripper can handle two wheels. Dawn, you're on the back with me. Nordlys and Katla with their mates. Joyce you get either Spike or Giles. Anya, I know you can ride." Buffy started firing off orders, glaring at people when they seemed frozen in place. “Let’s get a move on people. Time and tides wait for no man.” She shared a grin with the inspector. “Not even when they have a police escort!”

Cassie smiled, "I'll take one of the witches on the back with me. The other can go with Methos," she commented as she checked over her own bike.

The inspector waited patiently as everyone sprung into action.

Xander looked in slight trepidation at the rather large bike that Anya was fussing over. He hardly recognised Elvara as she swung leather covered leg over the seat of a 1958 Sunbeam S8.

That's 500 cc of pure magic, that is." Spike was actually purring. "Are you sure you can handle that much machine, little lady?" he asked sarcastically.

Elvara laughed. "Oh yes, and more."

She just grinned even more when Haakon got on the front. "I'll ride," he told her with a kiss, Xander noticed the way Haakon stroked her stomach, almost reverently.

There was a quick wail of the siren, and everyone took their places between the outriders.

Nine bikes set off in close formation with the outriders as escort. Traffic lights turned to green at their approach, other road users were made to wait, and they were even saluted as they went through one complex junction.

At one point a royal car was halted, and a very cross Princess Michael could be seen inside.

Buffy giggled and waved at the fuming personage. She so did like twisting the tails of snobby brats.

The police officer escorting her saluted as Elvara sped past.

The journey took less than half an hour and they were pulling up at the Battersea Heliport. The bikes rode straight onto the dock where the great twin bladed Chinook was waiting for them.

Giles had to admire the ebon and silver livery, even if he was becoming a little used to it.

The bikes were strapped into the cargo bay and the great machine took to the air. Within five minutes a second helicopter had arrived, this time it was a Sea king.

"They normally only take 14, but this one's been converted for 16 and shorter journeys. It's only ninety minutes to Quernmore." Buffy told them as they secured themselves in the seats."

"Are you sure you don't want fighter cover?" the inspector asked one last time.

"No thank you, and thank your team for us, will you. It was kind of them to go to so much trouble." Buffy said with a smile.

The copter lifted effortlessly into the air and carried its passengers through the blue English skies to the splendour of Quernmore Park, and the future that awaited them all.



~*~*~*~*~*~*


Translations:
Air aelaeseirol ojae? - Is everything alright?
Pamela air maedol bryn. Sal o thys sajol tasi os caes. – Pamela is sleeping now. Thank you for taking care of her.
Shi eisi eir kyl sai kaer mysti vaer byrn. Sher pyl caerorari sai shaji iar ais o baer eileirol. - We are all going to get some rest now. But don’t hesitate to wake us if you need anything.

Rakastan sinua, kuningatarni - I love you, My queen