BTVS & Angel:The Epic New Series
by buffyfaith19
Rating: R

Disclaimer: I don't own the characters in this story. Sadly someone else does, Joss Whedon, WB and UPN among others do, but they simply don't use them quite the way they should.
Author's Notes: There's a lot of em. It's been a year since Buffy went off the air and now with the cancellation of Angel, I felt a strong desire to do something to keep these shows alive in some form.

  • What I've come up with is to write a series combing the two shows. Yep, it's a mighty big endeavor, but it's also one that I think could be very fun to write and hopefully equally fun to read.
  • The basic premise of this story is a primarily femslash version of the show, with Buffy & Faith as slayers right from the time they move to Sunnydale at the age of 17. They will be the main characters, and while their relationship will be one of the main focuses, the relationships of the other main characters from both shows will have a prominent role in this story as well. As will the many supporting characters from both shows.
  • Most every character from BTVS and Angel will change in some way, shape or form. My reasoning for this is simple, without these changes we could just as easily sit and watch Buffy reruns, which can be fun of course, but this is intended to be something new. Some of the changes will be subtle, some will be major, but hopefully they will be interesting ones to read about.
  • Obviously, the one thing needed for something like this is an open mind. Sadly, the only thing I can promise is, that you won't like every change I make, but then again, who can say they liked every character, episode or season they saw of BTVS or on Angel? The hope is that you'll give it a read and that it will keep you interested, entertained and wanting to read what happens next.
  • I believe with the many sub plots, plot twists and turns in this story, along with the main storyline, that this will more than satisfy fans of the two series.
  • I call the story an epic for a very good reason. It's going to be long, but it won't feel long because it does flow very well. Unlike TV, I will have the time to delve into each character more; each couple more as well as the main storyline more and that I hope, will make for fun reading as we learn more and more about each of the characters in the Buffyverse.
    Warning: Characters will die from time to time, just as they did on TV. I want that to be a surprise so there will be no warning about this beyond the one I'm giving now. I believe the unexpected is always the most interesting and allows for suspense and surprises.

    +1=2=3=4=5=6=7=8=9=10+

    CHAPTER ONE

    Sunnydale, March 19, 1997.

    Buffy Summers arrived at her new school not sure what to expect, but happy for a change of scenery nonetheless. After a year of problems at her last school, this was a new start for Buffy, her mom and her younger sister Dawn.

    "I really don't want to go in mom." Buffy said, partially telling the truth and partially just wanting another day off school.

    "It will be fine. Just be yourself and you'll make lots of new friends." Her mom said, and then looked down at her watch. "I have to go. I have a meeting that I can't be late for."

    "But mom…" Buffy said with a nasal whine.

    "I'll talk to you tonight. Be nice to your sister okay. No fighting. Bye." She said sternly and, she was ready to go.

    When Buffy got out of the car she leaned in to say goodbye, but her mom was already driving off, leaving Buffy to pull her head back in a hurry as she watched the car speed away.

    "Fine, just go then. I'll do this on my own. Thanks for nothing." Buffy yelled at the back of her mom's car.

    Still pissed off and wanting to take off and never come back again, Buffy knew that wasn't a very good option, so she turned and started walking up the steps to her new school. Everywhere she looked all she saw were other kids talking, laughing and generally having fun.

    Her only other observation was that out of everyone around, she was the only one who seemed to be alone. It was the curse of being the new kid.

    Inside things were pretty much the same, teenagers mulling around their lockers waiting for the bell to ring. She stopped in the middle of the hallway to look for her locker combination. Opening her purse, she reached in to look for it, but was knocked off balance, sending the contents of purse flying all over the floor.

    Panic was the only emotion she felt as she scrambled to gather up all the items on the floor and was almost finished when a hand reached in and held out her diary.

    "I'm guessing this is yours?" the voice asked politely.

    Buffy took the diary and got to her feet, "Thank you. I can't believe I brought that to school."

    "Let me guess, it's your first day right?" the brunette said, still holding Buffy's hand.

    "Is it that obvious?" Buffy said with a big smile.

    "Afraid so, but you're not alone. It's my first day too."

    "Oh, I never would've have guessed, you seem pretty calm about it then." Buffy said as she studied the brunette closely, "Oh, I'm Buffy, nice to meet you."

    "Hi, I'm Faith." She said, shaking the hand she was still holding.

    Before Buffy could respond, a group of kids knocked her against the locker. As she turned to see what the commotion was, she saw Faith in the middle of a fight with something.

    With the creature leaning down to bite Faith's soft neck, Buffy rushed towards it and knocked it to the ground. She grabbed Faith by the hand and took off with the rest of the kids down the hall.

    They turned left when the others turned right and ended up in the girl's washroom. Turning around to catch their breath, they were more than a little shocked to see two men standing in front of them. Both were much older than they were, and sure didn't look like teachers either.

    Taking a step forward the older of the two men took out a small bag and tossed it towards the two girls, "It's good to see you, but there's really no time for introductions. Open the bag, take out the pretty wooden stake and run back and put it in the heart of that vampire that was chasing you. Excellent, off we go now." He said with a chipper smile.

    Opening the bag the girls picked up the stakes, looked them over and then Faith looked back at the two men, "Just one second here, who the hell are you?"

    "I knew you wouldn't do as you were told." The older man sighed, "Very well, if you must put up a squabble, my name is Mayor Richard Wilkins III and I am your watcher Faith."

    "What's a watcher?" Faith asked.

    "I really don't have time to explain that now." He said in a melancholy tone, "That mangy vampire you saw in the hall is probably killing one of your future classmates as we speak. Why don't you take care of him as I've instructed and we can get into all the formalities after your first day of school? How's that grab ya?"

    "This is crazy." Buffy interjected, staring back at the tall stuffy looking man standing beside the mayor, "What are you staring at? I'm underage you perv."

    His face red from embarrassment, the man stepped forward in a flash. "No, no, no. I was doing no such thing. I assure you, my intentions are truly honorable." He said with a British accent.

    "Cute accent, I always found those sexy." Faith said as she smiled at Buffy.

    "Oh well, thank you. I've had it all my life." The man said with an awkward smile.

    "That's quite enough Wyndham-Pryce, this isn't the dating game. You're a watcher and let's not forget that shall we?" the mayor said, and then turned back to the two girls, "If the vampire kills anyone, you two will be to blame. So, what's it going to be? Heroes or goats? Your choice."

    "This is bull. You could be the killers for all we know." Faith snapped back.

    "Ah yes, but were we the ones chasing the kids down the hall trying to impale our teeth into their necks? I guess you have nothing to worry about then. You caught us. Good job." The mayor said sarcastically.

    Buffy turned to Faith, "He's right, that thing almost bit you. Let's just take care of that guy. I think we can do it together, don't you?"

    "Oh, I was born ready." Faith nodded with a big smile as she held out her stake.

    "Let's go." Buffy said and the two girls marched out into the hall.

    Buffy and Faith followed the screams to see the vamp chasing a young girl towards them. Faith grabbed the girl, made sure she was okay, "Go into the girl's washroom and stay there until we come and get you. Okay?"

    "Okay." She muttered softly and then ran down the hall and out of sight.

    "You'll pay for that." The vampire said and then walked towards Faith.

    "I'm really scared." Faith said.

    "You should be. You have no idea what I'm gonna do to you." Buffy tapped him on the shoulder and as he turned around, she pushed the stake into his heart. Instantly he turned to dust, much to the amazement of both girls.

    "Cool." Faith said with a smile as she gave Buffy a quick hand shake, then pulled her in for a hug as they celebrated something they didn't fully grasp.

    With the hug lingering just a bit too long, they pulled back, turned and walked back to the bathroom. As luck would have it, there was no sign of the two men or the girl.

    "You don't think we just sent an innocent young girl into the arms of two depraved old men do ya?" Buffy asked as she looked around the room.

    "Nah, they seemed on the level to me; a bit dorky, but not creepy. I have a good sense for guys like that." Faith said, trying to smile through some bad memories.

    "Let's hope you're right." Buffy said as she turned and walked out of the bathroom, "Well, there has to be a reason they were at the school. Maybe the mayor is also a teacher or something." Buffy pondered. "That other guy looked like he would teach science or history or walked dogs for a living."

    "Yeah, and to think he's your watcher. Lucky you." Faith laughed as they walked down the hall and into the library.

    Buffy gave Faith a friendly push, "Oh thanks, he looks like he can barely function on his own, let alone 'watch' someone else, whatever that means."

    Inside the library, they were reunited with the two men.

    "You two could've told us to meet you here you know." Faith said with a highly annoyed tone.

    "Ah yes we could've, but what fun would that be?" The mayor said with a smile, "Now, since you're here, let's get down to business. I've got a meeting with the social committee that I just can't be late for."

    "By all means, what business do we have with you?" Buffy asked as she walked around the large library.

    "Well, it's really quite simple young ladies, you are the chosen two. That's right, you are both very special." He said, his face brimming with pride, "You are vampire slayers. I know you have a million questions and we have a million answers, but all in good time. Right now, we are in the middle of a crisis. The hellmouth, which is where this school is located, has seen an increased amount of activity, meaning vampires and other demons are entering Sunnydale at an unheard of pace."

    "That's all fine and dandy, but what do you want us to do about it?" Faith said bluntly as she walked in circles around the two men, "Is there some kind of training for this?"

    "Yes and no." Wyndham-Pryce said as he stepped forward, "The fact is you are born with the tools to help you in your newfound fight against evil. You have strength you never realized and the ability to heal at a very high rate. Some things we can help with, like providing information about the vampires and demons you'll be facing. We can help with your training as well. All this will be explained over time. Our job is to impart our knowledge on you and see that you are prepared for what lies ahead."

    "Is there another name we can call you besides Wyndham-Pryce?" Buffy asked while glancing at an old book on the table.

    "Well I'd prefer you addressed me using my given name, as that is proper protocol, but if you must know, by full name is Wesley." He said with a proud smile.

    "Good, Wes it is." Buffy said and then sat down to look at the book closer.

    "No, it's Mr. Wesley Wyndham-Pryce to you Miss Summers." He said with an agitated voice.

    "Oh stop getting all worked up Wes, it's just a name." Buffy answered shaking her head.

    "That will not be tolerated young lady…"

    "Oh pipe down Wesley." The mayor interrupted, "They can call you Wes, okay? Good. Now, back to the problem at hand. We have information that suggests there is a gathering place for many of these vamps and demons down by the cemetery. It's near an old crypt just to the west of the entrance. We need you to go in there and well, clear the place out. While you're at it, try and find out who's in charge. We've heard rumors, but we need confirmation. If it's who we think it is, Sunnydale is in serious danger."

    "Sounds like fun." Faith said with a smile, sitting up on the table beside Buffy.

    Wesley was stunned at Faith's seemingly cavalier attitude, "Fun? You call this fun? Surely you can understand the seriousness of the situation young lady."

    "Take it down a notch Wesley, we talked about this." The mayor said calmly as he walked over to Faith, "He does have a point though Faith, this is a very serious situation. I know it's only your first day as slayers, which is why you have no way of knowing the kind of danger you are about to face."

    "I don't know what you want me to do then, cry, run away screaming? What?" Faith said loudly, the ever-present smile fading for the first time, "I'm not afraid of death, if that's what you think. I'm more than ready to do this, so you can put your scare tactics away, because they don't work on me. Got it?"

    "Got it." The mayor said with a big smile, "I like you. You've got spunk. It's my job to keep you alive, so you'll have to excuse the kid gloves for now."

    "Okay, I guess." Faith said, her anger disappearing as quickly as it came, "It's nice you care then or whatever."

    Buffy watched intently as Faith went through a roller coaster of emotions and then broke the silence, "We should probably get started. What about school? Are we going to get some free pass or what?"

    "Ah yes, that will be taken care of, this time, but you will be required to do your work, so don't even think of this as your get of school free card, because it isn't," the mayor added with a whimsical smile.

    The two girls grabbed their stakes and took off to the cemetery.

    Winifred 'Fred' Burkle walked out into the library from a secret room in the back, "Have the slayers been found?"

    The mayor walked over to the tall slender brunette, grabbed the folder from her hands and sat down at the table, "Yes Miss Burkle, they are on their first mission as we speak."

    "That's good right?" Fred said as she sat down across from the mayor and crossed her long legs, "They seem like the perfect match from all the research I've been doing on them."

    "I wouldn't be too sure about that." Wesley said as he walked up behind Fred, "I am sensing a lot of anger, rage and unwillingness to follow orders from Faith and a lack of commitment from the Summers girl."

    "Oh you worry too much Wes." The mayor said with a chuckle, "I see good qualities in both these young women. I am actually feeling positive about our chances to ward off the real threat to Sunnydale."

    "You can't possibly expect these two teenagers to be ready in time to fight the Horde? You know what happened to the last two. They need more time to prepare." Fred stated firmly, removing her glasses for effect as she stared back at the mayor.

    "You don't have to tell me the risks involved, Fred. I am reminded of that every time I think of the last dozen slayers who have failed and lost their lives in the process." The mayor got to his feet and walked in a circle around the elongated table, stopping in front of a picture of Fred hanging on the wall, "Let's not forget Miss Burkle that you are still a teenager yourself."

    "Yes, but I'm a couple years older than those two. I'm also not a slayer, so it's not a fair comparison to make." Fred responded as she walked over to the Mayor, "Listen, I know we have to stop the Horde, but we need to give the girls a chance to get some field experience before throwing them to the wolves."

    "I believe Fred is right." Wesley said, lifting his head from the book he was reading, "I think I know just how to get them some experience."

    Fred's eyes lit up and a smile covered her face as she turned and walked over to Wesley, "How?"

    "Bear with me, this text is a combination of ancient Sumerian and well, very poor English, but I believe the gist of it concerns a prophecy regarding the chosen two, who are polar opposites of each other. Does that not sound like Buffy and Faith to you?"

    "Oh my god it does. They are so different it's like night and day." Fred said excitedly. "What else does it say?"

    Wesley put on his reading glasses and continued, "It tells of a great power forged by the bond of the true slayers, a power greater than the sum of two parts. It says that in order to achieve their true power, one slayer must be willing to pay the ultimate price for the other."

    The mayor was anything but excited, "No, I can't allow that. I won't allow that. We've seen enough slayers die and if I understand that prophecy right, it means the death of one slayer, will grant the other the power of two? Am I missing something here?"

    "Perhaps Richard, it is vague and well, you know how prophecies tend to be highly subjective at the best of times, but the way I read it was that it was the bond of the two slayers that gave them their power." Wesley lifted his head up, "I'm wondering if perhaps just the fact one would be 'willing' to do that to save the other is all they mean."

    "That does make sense. It would show the true bond of the slayers." Fred added as she walked over to the mayor, "This could be it. After so much pain and loss, I'm beginning to think we've found the chosen two."

    "I hope you're right Fred, because I don't think I can stand to lose another slayer." The major said, his face said it all as he walked towards the exit, "Oh Wesley, contact Giles would you, I think he's going to want to be apprised of this new development."

    "Yes sir." Wesley said and then walked into the back room and got on the phone.

    "Giles here?"

    "Hello Giles, it's Wesley Wyndham-Pryce. Richard wanted me to fill you in the latest developments."

    "If it isn't about you destroying the Horde then I'm not interested." Giles snapped as he flipped through the web site on his computer.

    "Ah, charming as always Giles. Well, it's a bit premature but…"

    "Do not even start with the premature drivel, call me back when you have something concrete. The Watchers Council deals in fact, not hunches. We gave up that long ago. Is that clear?"

    "Yes, of course." Wesley replied, but soon realized Giles had already hung up on him.

    Back at the crypt.

    There was something very creepy about a cemetery, even in the light of day. Both girls were cautious as they moved closer to the crypt, still no sign of a single demon or vamp. A large concrete slab was covering the entrance, but the girls had little trouble removing it from the picture.

    Faith climbed down a long dark stairway, finally putting her feet on the ground some 50 feet below.

    Buffy joined moments later and the two girls made their way through the first room, pushing crates and cobwebs out of the way, as they came to a large metal door with a note attached to it. Pulling it off the door, Faith opened it up and read it out loud.

    Dear slayers.

    Welcome to my humble home. Don't even think that you're alone.
    I'm the one you're looking for. Gimme a smile and open the door.

    "Well, isn't that a wonderful poem. I see we're dealing with an artsy vamp. That's sweet." Buffy said as she dropped the note on the ground.

    "At least it rhymed, sort of." Faith laughed and then followed Buffy through the door.

    They made their way through a number of long passages before ending up in front of another door with yet another note attached.

    Faith grabbed it and began reading.

    You made it this far, you must feel proud.
    Walk right in and speak out loud.
    This time you'll meet my friend.
    I can't help it if this is your end.

    "Okay, I want to kill this guy for making me read this crap." Faith said as she ripped up the note. They walked into the next room to find a large demon standing against the far wall. It was 7 feet tall and yet skinny as a bone. Pretty much all bone really, as it was nothing more than a skeleton.

    "It doesn't even look alive." Faith said as they moved closer.

    "Maybe not, but let's not wait to find out." Buffy took the lead and lunged towards the large skeleton, but missed with her stake as it stepped to the side. With a demented look on its face, the skeleton then took one long stride towards Buffy.

    Faith moved in, but before she could take a swing at the skeleton, she felt a pain in her leg. Looking down, she saw a piece of bone gnawing away at her ankle. She tried to kick it off, but it had a good hold of her and wasn't letting go.

    Buffy saw Faith grimace in pain and rushed over without hesitation, grabbed the piece of bone and pulled it off.

    With the strange piece of bone turning its attention to Buffy, Faith managed to get to her feet. She looked the situation over and with blood still dripping from her ankle, she leaped up onto Buffy's back, hopped over the skeleton, and as it turned to face her, she lunged forward and staked it, turning both it and the piece of bone to dust in the process.

    Sill reeling from the pain, Faith sat back down on the ground, "Well, isn't this special. Fun place. It's tough getting used to getting attacked by a corpse though. What the hell have we got ourselves into?"

    "I don't know, but it was kind of exciting don't ya think?" Buffy asked as she pulled up Faith's leather pants and saw the nasty cut on her ankle.

    Faith smiled and nodded, "Yeah, it was."

    Buffy smiled back at Faith, and then looked back at her ankle, "I'm going to have to find something to cover your ankle with. Are you going to be able keep going? That's a nasty bite it took out of you."

    "I'll be fine. I'll shake it off and we can get going." Faith said and then tried to stand up, but fell back down, "Maybe I do need it wrapped up for some support."

    "I think so." Buffy said as she looked around the room, spotting something in the far corner.

    She got up and walked over and lifted one crate off another, and opened the one underneath. Inside were boxes of t-shirts, books and other items, all with the same name on them, Sunnydale High.

    Picking a couple t-shirts from the pile, Buffy moved back over to Faith and did her best to clean the wound, cover it up and tie it nice and tight until they could get back and get some real medical attention for it.

    Faith took Buffy's arm and got back to her feet, took a few steps and gave Buffy a thumb's up, "Not bad at all. You do good work. Thanks."

    "Don't mention it; you saved my ass earlier, so I guess we really are a team." Buffy smiled and then moved towards the door.

    As was the case before, a note was waiting for them. "Let me get this one." Buffy said as he pulled the note of the wall and read it.

    You must have killed my skeleton, that's not nice, but you can still come in.
    I will admit to being impressed, I would go on but I do digress.
    I'm getting curious about my guests, I do wonder what'll happen next.
    Through the next door you will come, but heed the warning on the drum.

    "Oh god this is insane." Faith laughed out loud, "It's like we're dealing with some demonic version of The Cat in the Hat? I mean, maybe his plan is to have us kill ourselves to escape the agony of his lame ass riddles."

    Buffy laughed at Faith's sense of humor, "You might be right and they might just succeed if we have to read too many more of these things."

    Their eyes met as they shared a laugh together and they looked deep into each other's souls as time stood still for them. Shaking her head and turning away from Buffy, Faith cleared her head and opened the door. Inside the room were a handful of vamps, standing all in a row, apparently waiting for the slayers to arrive.

    Upon entering the room, the door behind them locked and there were no exits expect the one behind the group of vamps.

    Faith turned to Buffy, "I'll take the two on the right, you can take the two on the left and we'll share the last one. Sound good?"

    "Works for me." Buffy said and then rushed towards to the two vamps on the left side of the room.

    After some routine fighting, they had dispatched all five vamps and once again made their way to the middle of the room, but stopped in front of a large oil drum.

    "Well, what did that stupid riddle say, heed the warning of the drum?" Faith said, repeating the words from the note.

    "Yep, that's right." Buffy agreed as she looked all around the drum for any warnings.

    Faith joined her, but they couldn't find one bit of writing anywhere. "That's just great. Now what?"

    "I'm not sure." Buffy said scratching her head for the answer, "Maybe on the inside of the drum. Not sure what else we can do right now."

    "We might as well try." Faith shrugged and then pulled at the large wooden lid.

    With a little help from Buffy, they pulled the lid off the drum and took a look inside.

    It had no liquid in it, but there was something at the very bottom so Faith dove in and with Buffy holding her legs, she picked the note up and slid back up to her feet. Opening the note, they read it together.

    Isn't it amazing what you have done? I bet ya never thought it would be this much fun.
    Now that you've come closer it's time for you to pay. I do not like intruders getting in my way.
    I hope you learn your lesson, when I take you down. It's really nothing personal, but I will run this town.
    If you dare to open the door, it will be your last. When you see what's inside, I will have the last laugh.

    "Okay, enough with the riddles." Faith said, sitting down beside the drum and staring right at the door ahead of them, "You know, if we're walking into some kind of trap or explosion or something, we better have more than just good healing powers, we better have access to a nice resurrection spell while we're at it."

    "It could be a bluff. Listen, you head back to the entrance and I'll go through the door." Buffy said calmly as she put her arm around Faith's waist and tried helping her up.

    "Get your hands off of me." Faith snapped as she pushed Buffy away, "Who do you think you are deciding who goes and who stays? We're a team. We do this together or not at all. Oh, and by the way, the door behind us is locked, so we're stuck anyway."

    "Fine, no need to get all bent out of shape. Geez, I was just being practical. You have the sore ankle and who knows what lies ahead. I was just trying to help." Buffy took a step closer to Faith, "Well?"

    "Well what?" Faith said as she got to her feet and got right up in Buffy's face, "If you are waiting for some apology for not crawling out the door like a scared puppy, well, you can kiss my ass."

    "Don't flatter yourself, I wouldn't kiss your ass if…" before she could finish her colorful sentence the door in front of them came crashing down and a pack of vamps came stampeding towards them.

    There was no time to think as both girls jumped into action. Slowly, but surely they turned each and every vamp to dust, but only after taking some serious damage and leaving them both out of breath and covered with bruises.

    Faith looked over at Buffy, who was in some real pain, "Hey, are you okay? You don't look so good."

    Buffy struggled to catch her breath, "I'm fine. I just got winded."

    "I hope that fast healing kicks in soon or we'll be no match for who or whatever is in that next room." Faith said, her ankle now the least of her worries.

    A loud noise from the room just ahead got both girls attention in a hurry and they slowly got to their feet and faced the doorway as a shadowy figure moved towards them. It was hard to tell anything about what was actually moving, with the shadow looking more like a big round ball than that of a person of some kind.

    Buffy moved to her left and slid up against the far wall so she could have a better look at was moving towards them, but what she saw was enough to make her freeze in her tracks. Just not from fear. Instead, she saw a tiny little marble sliding forward, a microscopic camera mounted above it, creating an illusion of a giant ball of some kind.

    Faith saw Buffy laughing, knew that was good news and made her way over to her, "What's so funny?"

    Buffy just pointed towards the floor, "That."

    It took a couple seconds to get her eyes to stop blurring, but when Faith finally saw the tiny little gadget, she couldn't help but laugh.

    "Let's hope that's the end of surprises for today." Buffy said as she clutched her ribs.

    "I'm all for that." Faith agreed as she felt pain in her neck, back and her ankle.

    Just as they were relaxing, they heard another noise coming from the same room. This time it sounded mechanical. They had no option but to investigate.

    CHAPTER TWO

    Room 101, Sunnydale High School.

    Willow Rosenberg took her usual route to class, avoiding as many people as she could before settling into her chair in the back of room.

    Next to her was her best friend Xander Harris, who was doing what he did best, checking out the new girls in school, but his eyes stopped when he saw a beautiful blonde in the front row.

    She was reading a book when Xander made his move, "Hi there, you must be new here. I'm Xander; let me be the first to welcome you to Sunnydale High."

    "Thanks, but I already know your name. Curious, last year you didn't say a word to me. I sat in front of you in three different classes and I don't think you even said hi." The blonde girl stood up and stared back at a terrified Xander, "Isn't it funny how even now you are still staring at the only new thing about me, my breasts!"

    Lifting his eyes from the pretty girl's chest, Xander found the whole class was staring at him, "Um, no, no, I think you have me confused with someone else, sorry to bother you."

    "Not so fast." Said the blonde as she pulled Xander back to her, "Since you're here, what did you want to ask me?"

    "Oh, nothing really. I was just wondering if you had the time. My watch is broke and I see you have one right there, so yes, that's what I wanted to ask." Xander said, letting out a sigh of relief at what he felt was a brilliant recovery.

    "Don't you at least want to know my name?" she asked, her hands sliding up Xander's arm.

    "Um, no, I don't think I should. I think I should get back to my desk very fast. It's almost time for school to start." Xander turned and waved to the girl as he rushed back to his seat.

    Willow didn't wait for Xander to get too comfortable before poking him in the arm, "What the heck was that? How can you not know her name?"

    "Oh god, not you too?" Xander said as he put his head on his desk.

    "Yes, me too. My god Xander, we had lunch with her a lot last year. She's a friend of Cordy's. Ring any bells?" Willow asked as she kept raising her eyebrows until a light bulb went off in Xander's head.

    "You mean that's Darla? No way." Xander looked back at the front of the class and then back to Willow, "Come on, look at her now? She's gorgeous. She looks like a model. You can't tell me I would have missed this before."

    "She got some boobs Xander, that's about it. She was always pretty." Willow added as the teacher walked into the room.

    Xander stood up and cleared his throat, "I'd just like to take a moment and apologize to Darla for forgetting her name. I feel terrible and want to make it up to her. So, I've decided to sing her a song to humble myself in her presence."

    Darla was laughing her head off as were all the other kids in the class, but Miss Finkerbud, was not near as enthused, "Xander Harris, you can take your song and sing it to the principle. If I've told you once, I've told you a thousand times, stop interrupting my class."

    "But, class hasn't even started Miss Fingerbutt." Xander said, purposely mispronouncing her name.

    "It's Finkerbud and you know it Mr. Harris." The angry teacher said as she ushered Xander out of her class. "Get down to the principles office this instant."

    Darla gave Xander a smile as he stumbled out of the class, making the stroll to the principle's office fun for a change.

    Back in the crypt.

    The two injured slayers entered the room ready to fight to the death, but were surprised to find it empty but for another note on the floor in the middle of the room. Buffy picked up and read it.

    If you're reading this, I guess you made it through alive.
    Enjoy this feeling while you can, for you will not survive.
    This was merely a beginner's test, but it's nice to know what lies ahead.
    One thing for sure, I shall predict, next time we meet you will be dead.

    The Horde.

    "Well, either our big bad wasn't here or he escaped somehow." Faith said as she scanned the room.

    "I don't think it was here either, but he sure knew we were coming. There's no way he could get all those idiotic poems/riddles made so far in advance. Could he?" Buffy asked, just as she felt a breeze against the back of her neck.

    Faith felt it at the same time and they both slowly turned to see and smell a colored gas being pumped into the room from a small hole in the far wall.

    Buffy took Faith's hand and they ran out of room, closed the door behind them and stood with their backs against the wall staring back at each other.

    "It looks like our friend has one last surprise for us." Faith said, stating the obvious.

    They noticed the boxes in the corner, rushed over, opened them up and grabbed as many t-shirts as they could carry and put them under the door.

    Having bought themselves a little more time, the two girls began searching the room for anything that would help them escape.

    Scurrying around, they overturned every box in the room, pounded on the walls, tried to get through the locked door and generally exhausted every possible option, before they sat down beside the drum and took a break.

    "This is not how I want to die." Buffy said as she kicked the drum out of frustration.

    "We're not gonna die, at least not in this dump." Faith gave the drum a kick for good measure and when she did it began creaking deep inside.

    Both girls stepped back as it began rumbling and then rocking from side to side and after a couple of minutes the top of the drum flew off. Once the drum had landed on the floor and stopped moving, the two girls walked up to where it used to be and looked down into the hole it had left.

    To their delight, there was a light shining up through the bottom and without hesitation they climbed down the narrow hole, ending up somewhere deep under Sunnydale. With only one path to follow, they made their way through the zigzag path until they come upon a small stream of water running down the side of the west wall and then through a small crack in the east wall.

    When they turned to see where they'd come from they found the path was gone and nothing but dirt and rock remained. They focused on the stream of water and with a little teamwork had found a way to reach the top of the stream and as soon as they did a wall opened up and they crawled through it, ending up on a rocky ledge overlooking Sunnydale. It was a long and uncomfortable trek down the rocky hillside, but eventually the two girls made it down.

    "Oh god, I've never been so happy to see a bunch of houses in all my life." Faith said as she looked out at the city in front of her.

    "I know what you mean." Buffy quickly agreed, "Right now I need to go home and have a nice long shower."

    "Lucky you." Faith said with a sigh.

    "Why's that? You can't tell me you don't have a shower where you live?" Buffy asked, curious to hear Faith's response.

    "It's a long story. It's not important at all." Faith said with a fake smile, "You go get cleaned up. You earned it."

    "Wait." Buffy said as she grabbed Faith by the arm. "What's going on here?"

    "It's nothing. Don't worry about it." Faith said as she tried to reassure Buffy, "I'm fine, really. I'm just tired is all."

    "I don't think so. Okay, why don't you come back to my place and we can get cleaned up." Buffy said, taking Faith's hand so she couldn't say no.

    "But…"

    "But nothing, you're coming, so you might as well enjoy the walk." Buffy smiled as she started walking back to her house with Faith by her side.

    Deep in the pits of the Hellmouth.

    Spike was standing on a large platform trying to get a very large mob of vamps to listen to him.

    "Alright you useless blokes, it's time to for action. We've been in Sunnydale long enough and now we need to make our move." Spike pulled a cloth up and off a canvas, revealing the pictures of two pretty girls. "These two girls are the future."

    "Hey Spike, those aren't the slayers, you got the pictures mixed up." A vamp said, somewhere in the crowd.

    "Who said that?" Spike asked loudly. "Who the hell said that? It doesn't matter, you're obviously a moron. The slayers are not the key to this plan. They are merely the pawns in the master plan." Spike then pointed back to the picture, "This is Joyce Summers and this is her daughter, Dawn Summers. They are how we control the slayers."

    "I don't understand." Yelled another voice in the crowd.

    "Me either, until we kill the slayers, they will still be on the loose and a threat to all of us." Said another.

    "Why do I get stuck with all the bloody incompetent blokes?" Spike said and then turned and staked the vamp beside him, "Now, if I have your attention, we can move on." The crowd became deathly quiet as Spike went into great detail about his elaborate plan.

    Back at Sunnydale High.

    Lunchtime at any high school could be anything from a quiet boring meal to a massive food fight or some form of humiliation, all depending on who you were.

    In Xander Harris' case, he was close to the inside of many cliques, but never quite made it to the core. So, he usually had his lunch with his best friend Willow, who had much the same problem fitting in.

    On this particular day Xander was in a very good mood and was all smiles when he sat down beside Willow, "Greetings. Isn't it a wonderful day?"

    Willow looked at Xander as if he'd lost his mind, but since that happened a lot nothing he did phased her much, "Well, I guess it's as good a day as any. Why are you so happy?"

    "Oh Willow dear, didn't you see my exit today? It was amazing. Darla smiled at me." Xander said brimming with pride and even a little bit of confidence. "And I don't mean those smiles where they laugh at me, nope, because I'm pretty good at picking those out by now. This one was a sweet genuine smile and I can't get it out of my head."

    "I see." Willow said with a nod, "So what happens next?"

    "Oh, nothing is going to happen, she'll forget she even looked at me and that's fine. This moment should take me through to the end of the year." Xander said as he opened up his lunch and began eating.

    As he took his first bite, Darla walked up to the table with Cordelia and Harmony by her side, "Hello Xander."

    Xander looked up and tried to smile, but had to finish chewing his food before he could even speak, "Hi there. Hi. Darla right? See, I remember. So, how's it going? You girls having fun?

    "Oh you have no idea the fun we have together." Darla said as she smiled at both girls then looked back at Xander, "I wanted to talk to you, do you mind if we sit down?

    "Of course not, sit down. Eat. Drink. Be merry." Xander muttered and then pushed Willow to the end of the table, "Scoot over."

    Willow shook her head at Xander's barbaric behavior, but knew he'd be apologizing later.

    "Thanks." Darla said as she sat down across from Xander, "I was just thinking about this morning and I couldn't stop laughing at your performance today. It was really sweet what you did." Darla was twirling her hair with her fingers and sliding her tongue across her lips as she spoke, "Anyway, I was just wondering if you wanted to go to a party on Friday. It's a big college preview blast, I'd love to go with you."

    "Me? For real?" Xander asked with a look of shock and confusion on his face. "This isn't some kind of joke is it? Cause if it is, just shoot me now and save me the time."

    "Oh Xander, you're such a kidder." Darla smiled and put her hand on Xander's arm, "If you don't want to go, that's okay."

    "No, I didn't' say that. I just…well okay, I'd love to go with you anywhere. To the moon even. Well, if we had a way to get there. I don't think we could just rent a space shuttle…"

    Darla put her finger up against Xander's mouth, "Shhhh, sometimes you just need to nod. There's something to be said for the strong, silent type. You can pick me up at 8. Here's my address." She said as she handed him a piece of paper.

    "I'll be there." Xander said, choosing to keep it short and sweet.

    "Great, I look forward to it." Darla smiled, got up from the table and then walked back over to where she usually sits.

    Cordelia sat opposite Willow, studying the quirky redhead as she sipped her orange juice, "So Willow, I was wondering what you were doing this Friday?"

    "What? Are you talking to me?" Willow asked as she looked around the room.

    "Yes, you are the only Willow aren't you? Yes, you are. Now, back to my question, what are you doing this Friday?" Cordy asked in a matter of fact way.

    "I don't know, I guess I'll probably be studying or maybe I'll watch some TV or something. Why are you asking me and aren't you going to the party with Darla?" Willow said as she looked into Cordy's eyes to see if she'd been taken over by a demon or something.

    "No, I won't be going to that one. Anyway, I was just hoping you might want to come over to my place." Cordy said with a sexy smile.

    "Okay, what's going on here? Do you want something?" Willow said bluntly as she tried to stare Cordy into a confession of sorts.

    "You're as paranoid as Xander." Cordy shook her head in disgust as Willow's suspicious mind, "What ulterior motive do you think I have?"

    Willow tried to read Cordy, but just couldn't tell if she was being sincere, "I have no idea what this is about, which is why I asked what you wanted? Seriously Cordelia, it's not like you and I hang out together, so something must've happened."

    "You're right, but that's before, this is now. I'm not going to beg. If you don't want to come over, that's fine. I was just trying to be nice." Cordelia grabbed her purse and got to her feet.

    "I'm sorry, everything is happening so fast." Willow said, shaking her head and trying to think at the same time, "First Xander gets asked on a date by Darla, now you want me to come to your house? You have to admit, that's a pretty big coincidence."

    "That's fine, but I don't have time for your insecurities. I thought this might be fun, but I can see I was wrong. Have a nice lunch Willow." Cordelia turned and walked back to the table with Darla.

    Xander was still in his own dreamland, but did notice Cordelia talking to Willow, "So, what did she want? Help with her homework?"

    "Oh god, I bet that's it. She wanted me to come over and do her science project. I'm so dumb. I actually thought she wanted to be friends." Willow shook her head and laughed, but it wasn't a happy laugh.

    "Hey there, just a second." Xander said as he watched Willow's smile turn to disappointment, "You went from zero to sixty without telling me what the middle part was about."

    "You nailed it. Cordelia asked me to go to her house on Friday. I knew it was too good to be true and now I know why. Anyway, let's not talk about that." Willow said softly and then smiled as she changed the subject. "I guess you and Darla are really going out then?"

    "I still can't believe it and I'm prepared for this being a big joke, but if there's a chance she actually likes me, I can't pass that up." Xander said with a reserved smile.

    "Well, I think she should feel lucky to have you as her date. Once she gets to know you she'll see what I see, a nice guy with a great sense of humor."

    "Oh, don't call me nice. Guys don't like nice." Xander said with a frown, "Oh and by the way, you forgot to say how brutally handsome I am. But, I'll let it go this time."

    "Mighty big of ya." Willow chuckled and then went back to finishing her lunch.

    Outside Buffy's house.

    Buffy and Faith arrived at Buffy's house completely wiped from the fighting and then the long, long walk back home. Inside, Buffy took Faith up to her bedroom and they both sat on the bed and quickly lay down on their backs. It didn't take long before they were both fast asleep.

    Faith woke up first and slowly got to her feet and stretched her muscles and then took a look around Buffy's room. She picked up a picture of Buffy and Dawn with their mom and dad and couldn't help smile and envy what that must be like.

    Buffy got up to see Faith staring at the picture and hopped to her feet and walked up behind her, "That's from an eternity ago. Things were different then."

    "Different? How?" Faith asked as she turned to face Buffy.

    "I haven't seen my father in years. I get a post card here and there from some exotic city, a phone call about once a month, but he's always working." Buffy said as she took the picture from Faith and smiled at a time she'd almost forgotten. "Things just aren't the same now. I know something is going on, but my mom won't tell me. I'm almost afraid to ask. My mom just clams up when I mention my dad anymore. I have no idea what caused it, but we aren't the same happy family you see in the picture."

    "I'm sorry, I didn't mean to bring up bad memories." Faith turned and walked back over to the bed and sat down.

    "No, it's not your fault. I love the picture because it's such a good memory." Buffy sat the picture back on her dresser and then went and sat down beside Faith, "I don't mean to pry, but how are things with your parents?"

    Faith tensed up at the question and once again got to her feet, "There's not much to tell really. I have no dad and my mom's not really a mom, so I pretty much live on my own now, but I like it."

    "I'm sorry. That must be hard." Buffy said, not really sure what to say.

    "It's fine."

    Buffy walked back over to Faith and touched her shoulder, "Hey, if you want, you could stay here. We do have a spare bedroom. I'd love to have you."

    "No, I couldn't do that. It's too much. I don't like owing people." Faith pulled away from Buffy and looked out her window.

    "I don't look at this as you owing me. I want you to stay here. It's what friends do for each other." Buffy said with a smile as she tried to change Faith's sullen look.

    "It's really nice of you to offer, but I don't think I can accept."

    "Oh well, I wonder how I can get you to change your mind." Buffy said with a grin and then walked into the bathroom.

    Faith followed, her eyes opening wide as she saw the big beautiful shower and the large counter and sink, the huge cabinet for all the many accessories and she looked at Buffy, who was smiling back at her, "This is nice. Oh how I miss a good shower. You are making this hard B."

    "B?" Buffy asked with a grin, "Well B it is, but you have to stay. Whoever gives out a nickname must grant the other a wish. My wish is for you to stay here with me. We are slayers, we will be spending a lot of time together, it even makes sense for that."

    Faith was smiling for the first time since they'd fought the last group of vamps and after opening the shower curtain and looking inside, she turned to Buffy, "Okay, you've gotta deal."

    Buffy ran over and gave Faith a big warm hug, "I'm so happy you said yes."

    "Okay, no need to get all mushy on me." Faith smiled.

    "That's not mushy, that's just being nice." Buffy explained as she looked back into Faith's dark eyes.

    "Are you going to kiss me or let me have a shower?" Faith said with a laugh as the two girls stood eye to eye for the longest time.

    "Um, sorry, I was just…yes, you can have the shower first. Just let me know what you need." Buffy said as she pulled back from Faith.

    "Thanks, I won't take long. I'd suggest we share it, but maybe another time." Faith said with a sexy grin.

    Buffy smiled, but wasn't sure if Faith was joking around or serious, but she sure liked the idea. Her smile was still on her face when her eyes grew big and she turned and rushed back to the bathroom.

    Even though she wanted to say something, as she stared at Faith's half-naked body, she couldn't for the life of her think of what it was. Not able to move or speak, she just stood there as Faith slipped out of her tight pants, taking in her sexy curves as Faith unhooked her bra and let it fall to the floor.

    Feeling her pulse racing and her temperature rising, Buffy took one last look at Faith's shapely round ass and started backing out of the bathroom.

    Faith turned around and smiled at Buffy, "Hey, what can I do for ya."

    Buffy was surprised, yet relieved, at Faith's calm reaction and she tried looking her in the eyes as she fought hard to think of why she was in the bathroom to begin with, "Um well, it's just that I was thinking…oh right, you don't have any clothes here."

    "I guess you're right." Faith said as she slid out of her panties, "Well, who needs clothes, right?"

    "I can see you don't, but it might be a bit distracting at school. You know, for the boys." Buffy said as she turned to the side.

    "Oh yes, boys do seem to get all worked up at the sight of a naked girl. It's good you don't or this might be a bit awkward." Faith teased, and then walked up behind Buffy and reached over and pushed the bathroom door closed.

    "Why did you do that?"

    "In case someone came home of course. I wouldn't want your mom or sister to see me like this." Faith said as she slid her breasts up against Buffy's back.

    "I think I better go. I have to go do something." Buffy said as she grabbed the doorknob.

    Faith stepped back and walked over to the shower, "Yes, it is getting a little warm in here isn't it? I'll get washed up and then I'll help you with your shower."

    "What? No, no, no. I don't need any help. It's just standing under water right, so I can do that. Yep, I can." Buffy turned and walked out the door, closed it behind her and let out the biggest smile ever.

    CHAPTER THREE

    Back at the library.

    Fred flipped through the pages of a gigantic old book, taking time to underline selected text as she went. Wesley did the same, as they compared notes from two separate, yet similar prophecies.

    "I need a break. How many differences do we have now? 3 or 4 was it?" Fred asked as she leaned back in her chair.

    "Yes, four differences in a thousand year old prophecy." Wesley got up and stretched his legs and as he did he found himself face to face with a vampire. Fred looked up and screamed as the vampire made a move towards Wesley.

    Wesley backed up, ran over to the shelf, picked up a cross and a stake and took a couple steps towards the vamp.

    "You can put that down. I'm not here to hurt anyone." The tall vamp said as he pulled out a letter and tossed it on the table, "Read it and do what it says or this school is going to have a very big disaster on its hands."

    "Wait! Who are you and who sent you?" Wesley asked as he took the note from the table.

    "That's all explained in the letter. Don't follow me or send the slayers after me or you will be picking up body bags by the truck load." The vamp made his threat and took off out the door. Fred rushed over to Wesley and leaned over his shoulder as they looked at the letter.

    Hello Wesley and Richard.
    There are two ways I can achieve my goals. One is to kill everyone in Sunnydale. The second option doesn't have to be that way, but that's entirely up to you and the Watcher's Council. Within 72 hours, we will have the means to dictate our terms. When this takes place, you will have no bargaining power left.

    If you wish to save the residence of Sunnydale, you will remove the slayers from the picture and have the mayor declare a state of emergency and systematically evacuate the city. Once you have done this we will no longer be a concern for you.

    If however you choose to ignore this warning, we will go on a rampage, the likes of which you've never seen. When we're finished, we will bring the watchers and the slayers to the scene of the massacre and show you what your defiance has caused. You will not receive any further communication from us.
    The Horde.

    Both Fred and Wesley had grim looks on their faces, but soon they both were on the go.

    "I have to go see Richard downtown. Call Giles, tell him about the letter, and find out what he has to say about it. Also, call Buffy or Faith and find out if they are back yet. We are going to need a brainstorming session as soon as possible." Fred nodded yes and Wesley was out the door.

    Moving to the back room Fred called Giles, "Giles, we have a situation on our hands and we are going to need some backup."

    "Slow down Fred, what's the big emergency this time?" Giles asked without the least bit of urgency in his voice.

    "This is not a prank." Fred said loudly and firmly, "We received a warning from the Horde just now. It says to evacuate Sunnydale in 72 hours or they will slaughter everyone. They want the slayers to leave town and they say that's the only way to keep people alive."

    "No need to panic. I'll send an elite tactical support team to Sunnydale immediately. We have one in LA, so they could be there by tomorrow morning." Giles said, his hands now moving at a much faster pace, as he made some calls while continue to talk to Fred, "You do realize you can't do what they are saying. Under no circumstances do we or anyone else deal with threats like this by giving them what they want. It's terrorism plain and simple and it's not an option. Vampires or not, they will be dealt with the same way as all the others, quickly and decisively."

    "I feel better already." Fred said as she exhaled, "I'm still not sure the slayers are prepared for this. They've had only one morning to get used to the idea. I have a good feeling about them, but I feel like they need more time to work together and become a team."

    "We don't have that time and neither do they. Either they succeed or they die." Giles showed no emotion as he continued to make his plans.

    The look on Fred's face showed the shock she felt at Giles cold, hard words, "Oh god, that is so harsh. They are just kids. You know, they might last longer if they had some time to train for this job. It's not easy and it's not something all teenagers are mentally capable of at this stage of their lives."

    "Don't you lecture me on how to fight vampires, train slayers or anything else for that matter." Giles yelled at the top of his lungs, "I've been doing this since before you were born and will not let a wide eyed, naïve little girl tell me how to do my job. Is that clear?"

    Fred was furious at how he was talking to her, but held her tongue because she wanted to stay around and help the two slayers.

    "I asked you a question Miss Burkle."

    "Yes, it's clear." Fred said, gritting her teeth the whole time.

    "Good, now get to work and do your job and maybe, just maybe we can avoid any bloodshed. I'll have the tactical unit contact you when they arrive. Just don't forget, these are support people. The slayers are still our main weapons. You better get them ready."

    Fred didn't have a chance to respond as Giles hung up as soon as he'd finished barking out his orders. With no time to be hurt or angry, Fred was back on the phone calling Buffy's house.

    Buffy picked up the phone after a couple rings, "Hello."

    "Buffy, you don't know me but my name is Fred and I work with Wesley and the mayor. We have a serious situation brewing and we need you and Faith to get back here for a meeting. How did things go in the crypt? Did you find anything?"

    "Did you say Fred?" Buffy enquired, not sure if she heard right.

    "Yes, it's a long story and I'd love to tell you all about it, but now is not that time. Is Faith there?"

    "She's in the shower right now. But, she should be done any time, she's been in there way too long. Why?"

    "We got a letter from the Horde and we need to start working on a plan to deal with it. You two are the key, so we need you here. Just get here as soon as possible. Thanks." Fred said politely, knowing she'd probably just terrified the two girls.

    Buffy hung up the phone and knocked on the bathroom door, but Faith didn't answer. With no time for pleasantries, she opened it and walked in.

    What she saw was Faith in a very private moment.

    "What the hell are you doing barging in on me like this?" Faith said, covering up her naked body and getting up from the floor.

    "I'm so sorry. God, I'm sorry, but I just got a call that we are needed back at the school and it's an emergency. The Horde has sent a warning and we are going to work on a plan I guess. I'm sorry, but I need to shower now." Buffy said, looking anywhere but at Faith.

    "I can't say I'm thrilled about staying with you if you're going to keep doing this crap." Faith said as she walked up and then past Buffy and stood in front of her closet, "Hey, I guess I have to wear some of your clothes for now. You don't mind do ya? Good. I'll help myself."

    Buffy wasn't thrilled with the idea, but was in no position to argue, "Sure, take what you want. We can go shopping for you another day."

    "Swell." Faith said as she walked out the door.

    Seconds after Faith left the room Buffy had undressed and stepped into the shower. Turning on the water she began washing her hair and enjoying the feeling of the warm water splashing over her aching body.

    As she reached down to find the soap she felt someone's hand and jumped back screaming. Wiping the water from her eyes she was stunned to see Faith sitting on the edge of the bathtub smiling up at her, "Oh, is this bothering you?"

    "Are you crazy? I'm showering you know. Get out." Buffy screamed.

    Faith stood in front of her, looking her over from head to toe, smiling at the sight of Buffy's firm young body.

    "Stop ogling me. God, do you have any manners?"

    "Actually, I think it was you who barged in on me. Or did you forget that?" Faith asked as she held the soap in hand.

    "Why you little…fine, be this way. It's not my fault you couldn't control yourself had to grind your hot little body all over the bathroom floor. What were you doing with your hands again?"

    Faith was steaming mad by that point and reached into the shower, grabbed Buffy and they started wrestling back and forth until Faith slipped and fell out of the shower and onto the bathroom floor. Horrified at what she'd done, Buffy climbed out of the shower and leaned over Faith to see if she was still breathing. Relieved to see that she was, she began trying to wake her up.

    Finally, she tried pushing on her chest. She's seen it on TV enough and figured it couldn't hurt. Putting her hand just above Faith's ample breasts, she began gently pushing downward. Each time her hand seemed to move lower and lower until she was no longer pushing on her chest, but caressing Faith's breasts.

    Faith opened her eyes and looked up at the naked blonde slayer, "So, do you fondle all your guests or am I just the lucky one?"

    Buffy was just relieved that Faith was okay and leaned down and gave her a hug.

    "Well, I should get hurt more often. You're a very pretty nurse."

    Pulling back, Buffy looked down at Faith, "Oh god, I've made a mess of you now. You're going to have to change."

    "That's okay, I didn't like this outfit anyway. It's way too ugly for me to wear."

    Buffy's smile turned to a much different look in a hurry, "Watch what you call ugly, missy."

    Faith smiled at Buffy's reaction, "Relax B, I was just teasing. Sorry, I do that a lot; must be a defense mechanism."

    "Oh, I guess I'm not used to that." Buffy said softly as an embarrassed look covered her face, "Now can I have the soap please so I can finish this shower?"

    Getting to her feet Faith began to take off her wet clothes as she held the soap away from Buffy.

    "What are you doing?"

    "What does it look like I'm doing? Are you always this slow?" Faith asked with a smirk.

    Buffy stood still and smiled back at Faith, "I haven't had any girls get naked in front of me in my own bathroom, so I guess I'm not sure how to react."

    "Shows what you've been missing." Faith said as she walked past Buffy and stepped into the shower. She turned and held her hand out towards Buffy. "Don't be shy."

    Buffy shook her head, but didn't walk away and finally took Faith's hand and stepped into the shower with her.

    "See, it's not so bad now is it?" Faith asked as she grabbed a washcloth and began washing Buffy's back and shoulders.

    "It may not be bad, but it sure is different." Buffy said, letting out a slight moan as Faith's hands caressed her lower back. "Wow, you sure know what you're doing. That feels so good."

    "I'm glad you like it. You can do me after."

    "Do you?" Buffy said as she again stepped back.

    "Yes, do my back. You sure have a dirty mind. Is sex all you think about?" Faith asked while trying to keep a straight face.

    "No, I just don't know how to deal with you being here like this, all naked and so close." Buffy said, as she moved back and let Faith continue washing her body.

    Faith slid her hands down over Buffy's ass cheeks, slowly moving over each perfectly shaped cheek, before sliding down her slender legs, then moving back up the front of Buffy's knees, thighs and between her legs.

    Buffy was doing her best not to react as Faith's hand slid over her pussy lips, biting her tongue and then licking her lips as she was becoming highly aroused. She felt Faith slide her hands up her tummy and then over her firm round breasts, stopped to look into Buffy's eyes as she cupped her breasts in her hands.

    "Are you always this friendly with people you just meet?" Buffy asked softly, letting her hands slide down Faith's back and over her firm ass.

    "Actually no, I don't really like people that much. I just feel something when I'm with you. I can't explain it…it's just so strong." Faith whispered softly.

    "I know what you mean. I have never been attracted to anyone like this before." Buffy said as she leaned in and kissed Faith on the lips.

    Faith put her arms around Buffy and kissed her back hard. They kissed for the longest time when the phone began to ring again.

    As Buffy pulled back from the kiss, Faith stopped her, "Don't get it."

    "I have to and I think you know that."

    "I know," was all Faith could say as Buffy got out of the shower, rushed into her room and picked up the phone.

    "Buffy, is that you?"

    "Yes, but who's this?" Buffy asked, then got up and looked for a towel.

    "This is your watcher, Mayor Wilkins. I believe you've talked to Fred and know of the situation, but we've moved the meeting to my office. You can't miss it. We'll have a buffet and some snacks for you kids. Be here at 7 PM sharp and don't be late. I believe in being prompt. Right then, you have fun until then. Bye now. "

    Faith put a towel over Buffy's shoulder, "Who was that."

    "Just more slayer stuff I guess. We have a meeting with our watchers at 7 tonight." Buffy said as she tried to dry off, but was distracted with Faith so close to her.

    "That's fine with me. That gives us a couple hours to rest and relax a bit." Faith said, then took a step back and dropped her towel.

    "Okay, this has got to stop."

    "What?" Faith asked with an innocent smile.

    "You being naked all the time, I can't think when I see you like this." Buffy said, once again turning her head.

    "Geez, I didn't know I repulsed you so much." Faith picked up her towel and covered up again.

    "Oh stop it. You know that's not what I meant." Buffy got up, walked over to her dresser and searched for something to wear.

    "Okay, let's just get dressed and go watch some TV or something for a couple hours." Faith said as she looked over Buffy's limited wardrobe, "When do your sister and mom get home?"

    "It's different each night for my mom. It all depends on how busy she is. Dawn gets home around 4 every day." Buffy said as she rummaged through her clothes.

    "How old is Dawn?"

    "She's 15 now." Buffy pulled up her favorite pair of jeans and watched as Faith grabbed her favorite top, "Put that down."

    "What? You actually wear this thing?" Faith said as she tossed the top towards Buffy, "It's a bit blah if you ask me."

    "Thank you little miss fashion critic, but I like it and think it looks great on me. I've been told it brings out my eyes." Buffy said as she looked in the mirror.

    "Sure, because they couldn't see your breasts so what else would they say? You do know black covers up your best assets, right?" Faith said as she picked out a white t-shirt and pulled it on.

    "First of all, that's crude. Secondly, it wasn't a guy who said that about my eyes, geez, it was my mom. She is very honest about how I look. Lastly…" she started to speak and then took another look at Faith in the white t-shirt and shook her head, "Damn it; that does look hot."

    "I told ya." Faith said with a big smile as she strutted out of the room.

    Buffy removed her top and grabbed another of her white t-shirts and pulled it on, looked in the mirror and was very happy about how she looked.

    Out in the living room Faith had the TV on and was sitting curled up on the large loveseat, "You have nothing on your TV right now."

    "Don't yell at me, I'm usually in school at this time of day." Buffy said as she sat down in front of Faith.

    Faith tapped the loveseat, "You can sit here with me you know."

    "I just like the floor." Buffy smiled and turned towards the TV.

    "Suit yourself." Faith said as she began flipping through the channels.

    Meanwhile, down below the earth.

    A group of vamps were hard at work building a strange contraption, while Spike was having a meeting with a stranger.

    "Okay, let's go over a few things here before we begin. Who the bloody hell are you and why did they let you in?" Spike grabbed the person by the neck and pushed them up against the wall, "You better talk fast, because I'm not a patient man."

    With lightning quick reflexes, the tall athletic man had Spike's arm up behind his back and his face against the cold hard rock, "You were saying?"

    "Sometimes I get carried away with all the bravado involved with being a leader. So, who are you?" Spike asked as he tried to break free, then relaxed and looked up at the person, "If you don't kill me now, I will kill you if I don't hear a good explanation."

    "My name's not as important as what I can do for you." The man said, releasing Spike as they continued, "I know of you Spike. Most everyone in this line of work knows of you. You have big plans and lofty goals. So far you've yet to follow through on any of these plans."

    "I've had about enough. I don't know you. I don't like you. Why don't you just sod off." Spike said, turning his back and walking towards the platform.

    "I know you have a temper, so I'll let this slide." The man said, adjusting his suit, "I'm offering you a chance to be part of something bigger than the Horde. How's that grab ya?"

    "You sure do talk a lot, but I've heard nothing that interests me."

    "If you'd stop with the attitude and sit down and hear what I have to say, you might change your mind."

    Spike turned to the man, sat down in his chair and motioned for him to continue.

    "Thank you." He said, pulling out a large piece of paper from his jacket and handing it to Spike, "This is a map of your little area. Just to show you how immense our network is. We have people in your organization and you have no clue about it. They gave us these maps. Pretty darn impressive don't ya think? For vamps that is. You aren't the brightest light bulbs around after all."

    "Again, I give you a chance and you blow it. I don't have any more time to listen to your pointless ramblings. Now get the hell out of my crypt." Spike said without so much as blinking.

    "I wasn't finished." The man said as he took a step towards Spike, "Perhaps I should get to the point. I am part of worldwide conglomerate, the likes of which you can't possibly comprehend. We deal with humans and demons of any kind. We effectively control a vast majority of the world's wealth, oil and land. So why don't you stop thinking so small and join us and be part of the new future."

    "I'm not impressed with all your yammering, especially when you still haven't mentioned who you work for." Spike got to his feet again and walked over to the much taller man, "Besides, I work alone and I do just fine. Thanks for the offer, but no thanks. Now get out."

    "Well, don't say we didn't ask. Next time you see me, I won't release you from my death lock. So enjoy your time planning your pathetic little schemes." The man took out his business card and tossed it at Spike's feet. "One last thing, if we didn't know that the slayer was going to kill you, we'd do it ourselves. This will be much more fun to watch. You have a nice day now."

    Spike reached down and picked up the business card, Charles Gunn, Vice President of Wolfram & Hart, L.A. Division. After reading it, Spike tossed it into the pit and went about his business.

    Outside the crypt Charles Gunn made a phone call, "He didn't take the bait, but that's no surprise. He's as arrogant as we were led to believe. Do you want me take him out?"

    A man sitting at a fancy desk with a pretty blonde girl sitting on his lap, "No, let's see how he fairs against the chosen ones. If he dies, he's no longer a threat. If he succeeds, he's still worth another shot at recruiting. Keep an eye on him and let me know if he has any high profile visitors."

    "I take it Spike isn't ready to join forces yet?" the blonde asked as she hung up the phone.

    "It's his loss. I don't care one way or the other, but some of the partners seem to think he'd be a good acquisition." The man said as he dumped the blonde in his chair and got up. "You know, I'm getting real tired of the partners trying to go behind my back just and recruit any old vamp or demon that's still alive. Spike is overrated. He killed two slayers, big deal. In fact, why don't you take your pretty little ass and join Gunn in Sunnydale. I will feel better knowing there's a demon helping Gunn out."

    "Oh Angelus, Gunn is perfectly capable of handling things. He's learned from the best."

    "Anya, I didn't ask." Angelus said as he turned and gave Anya a menacing glare.

    "Okay, okay, lighten up Angelus. We've talked about this. You get careless when you lose your temper. Karma kiddo. It'll bite ya in the ass and we don't want that do we?" Anya asked with a cute smile.

    Angelus walked up behind Anya, put his hands around her tiny neck, leaned down and whispered in her ear, "You're cute as a button and a great partner in crime, but when it comes to Spike I will not take any chances. Just go and I won't have to lose my temper."

    "I'm on my way. You know I hate to leave you like this." Anya said as she spun around so she was facing Angelus, "One other thing, I've noticed a good deal of activity in the Portal chamber lately. Most of it has been captured on video, but there are two days of activity that were lost. I'm not sure what this means but you might want to look into it."

    "Good, it'll give me someone to kill while you're away. Thanks for the tip." Angelus said as he walked back to his chair and began surfing through the company's records.

    "Hey, aren't you going to kiss me goodbye? I'm going to miss you." Anya said with a fun smile, but got no reaction from Angelus, "Oh come on, can't you at least pretend to be romantic and say you'll miss me? I know you will, you big lug. Fine, I know you can't express your feelings, so I'll just go."

    Angelus watched Anya as she walked away, her short and very tight skirt clinging to her body like glue, brought a smile to his face, "Hey."

    Anya turned her head to face Angelus, "Yes?"

    "You look damn fine in that skirt." Angelus said with the faintest hint of a smile, "When ya get back, we'll do something special."

    "Thanks." Anya said with a big smile and then walked slowly out of the room.

    CHAPTER FOUR

    Outside Sunnydale High School.

    Willow stopped at the bus stop, sat down on the bench and waited for her bus to show up. She got out one of the many books from her bag and began reading to pass the time.

    One of the few things that could distract her was the sound of a vehicle pulling up by the bus stop and as she looked up she saw Cordelia smiling back at her as she pushed open the passenger side, "Well, get in Rosenberg."

    Looking around to see if anyone else could possibly be named Rosenberg, but since nobody was rushing to the car, she knew Cordy was talking to her.

    Not sure what was going on, she put away her books and walked slowly towards Cordy's car.

    Leaning in to see Cordelia smiling still, she sat down in the passenger's seat, buckled up and smiled back at the pretty brunette and watched as she took off.

    "I was on my way to the mall when I saw you sitting there and I couldn't help but think, this girl needs a makeover. So, I'm going to take you to all the best places and we are going to get you a whole new wardrobe and a new hairstyle and I know there's a hot sexy girl just dying to break free."

    "Um, I don't know what to say. I'm kind of torn between being offended and excited."

    "Huh? You are a strange girl Willow Rosenberg." Cordelia said with a rare warm smile, "I don't think you're used to someone being nice to you, so you create some bizarre scenario to explain it. I know it's hard to grasp, but I find you interesting and wanted to get know you better. No secret motive. No big prank planned. Just me being me."

    "Okay, sorry then." Willow said softly, turning away from Cordy and looking out the window.

    "Are you always this shy?"

    "Not always, just when I don't know someone very well." Willow replied, her eyes back to staring at Cordelia, "I'm actually quite talkative around my friends. Xander says I never shut up, but in a good way."

    "Stranger still, I never understood what you saw in Harris. He seems like such a dork." Cordelia said with puzzled look.

    Willow smiled at how blunt Cordelia always was, "Oh, he kind of is, but he's a nice guy. He's a good friend and I think you'd like him if you give him a chance."

    "Maybe I will, if you like him I suppose he can't be that bad." Cordelia made a left turn and parked the car outside the fanciest boutique in Sunnydale. She got out, helped Willow out of the car and led the way inside a store Willow never dared even window shop in.

    "I should tell you that there's no way I can afford to buy a coffee in this place. But, I don't mind helping you shop." Willow said as she looked in awe at the isles and isles of the most famous designer clothes in the world.

    "Don't worry about the money, it's one good thing about having rich parents." Cordelia said with a sweet grin, "Ah, here we go. I just think you would look so good in this. I saw the other day it just screamed Willow to me. Why don't you go try it on?"

    "Me? No, I just…no I can't. I might spill something on it or set it on fire or…"

    "Set it on fire? You kill me Willow, you have such a dry wit. Go ahead; if it goes up in smoke, the bill will be the least of your worries." Cordelia said with a smile as she led Willow to the change rooms and pushed her inside.

    "Um, I guess I'll try it on then." Willow said from the room.

    "Good, I'm going to check some out some other things. Just come on out when you're ready." Cordelia said and then was back checking out the next row of designer outfits.

    Willow slowly began to remove her sweater, then after a bit more time she removed her skirt. Finally, she put on the dress Cordy had picked out for her and when she looked in the mirror she quickly began covering herself up.

    After about 10 minutes Cordelia walked back to the change rooms, "Hey, are you okay in there?"

    "Um, I'm not sure what to do. I think this dress is missing some parts." Willow said as she looked in the mirror at all the skin she was seeing.

    Cordelia couldn't help but laugh, "You are so cute. Come on, let me see how you look."

    "Okay, but don't laugh." Willow said and then put her hand on the door knob, "Oh wait, is there anyone else out there? I can't wear this in front of strangers."

    "It's just you and I, so come on out." Cordelia said and then waited as the dressing room door opened and Willow stepped out. Willow was wearing a Versace original, worn first by the beautiful Christy Turlington and she looked amazing.

    "OMG, I'm in awe. Have you looked in the mirror?" Cordelia said as she put Willow in front of her and facing a large full length mirror, "Even I didn't think you would look this stunning. You need to keep this."

    "No way. I can't wear this." Willow said in a panicked state, "Look, it's not covering much of me at all. I feel all this air on my body and it's freaking my out. I feel almost naked in this."

    "A little modesty is good Willow, but you are overdoing it a bit." Cordelia said as she adjusted the side of her top, brushing every so gently against Willow's left breast, "Nothing is showing that shouldn't be showing. Your breasts are covered nicely and so is your cute little ass, so what is it you don't like?"

    "I don't know. I don't think I'm meant to be sexy I guess. I just don't know if I'm comfortable looking this way. I can't be like you and be beautiful and sexy and poised and confident. I'm going to take this off." Willow turned to walk away but felt Cordelia holding her around the waist.

    "Just one minute okay." Cordelia said as she turned Willow around, "I know we don't know each other like best friends, but I would hope you'd listen to my opinion when it comes to fashion. You're so much prettier than you let yourself be. Let's not forget how good you look in that dress. Every single curve accentuated; I can't take my eyes off you."

    "You're just saying that to be nice." Willow looked in the mirror again as it was one way to look at Cordelia without staring.

    "Oh god girl, you have lower self esteem than anyone I know." Cordelia took Willow's hand and led her back to the change room, walked inside with her and shut the door, "Okay, it's just you and me here. It's not school. There's no pressure. Nobody is watching. Now, what I'm about to do is probably going to make you scream and run away, but if I have to speed things up just to get you to see how pretty you really are, then so be it." Cordelia said with authority, then took Willow's face in her hand, leaned in and kissed her on the lips.

    Willow was more than stunned by the kiss, but not enough to stop kissing Cordelia back. In fact, the more they kissed, the more relaxed Willow became until she was becoming the aggressor and was soon exploring Cordelia's mouth with her tongue, her hands moving up and down her back as she pulled Cordy closer.

    When Cordelia broke the kiss off, she looked back Willow, who was smiling from ear to ear, "Well, since you didn't run away screaming can I assume you enjoyed that?"

    "Oh yes, I loved it. I still can't believe you kissed me." Willow said with a look that was both happy and confused, "Oh please do not tell me this was just a pity kiss."

    "What am I going to do with you?" Cordelia said with a sigh and then leaned in again and kissed Willow hard on the lips.

    This kiss went on even longer than the last. The passion grew and grew, as Cordelia was the one who slipped her hands under Willow's top and over her small yet perky breasts.

    Soft moans escaped Willow's lips as Cordy rubbed her nipples with her thumb and slid her right hand down Willow's stomach and then under her panties, rubbing her pussy, while never breaking the kiss.

    Willow was breathing heavy as Cordelia was rubbing her pussy faster and faster, her left arm now holding Willow up as she leaned back against the wall, legs apart as she closed her eyes and gave herself to Cordelia.

    Holding Willow tightly, Cordelia was rubbing Willow's clit harder and harder, she put her fingers up to her lips, licked and sucked them into her mouth, then quickly went back to rubbing Willow as fast as her fingers could move.

    Unable to control her emotions or her moans, Willow was moaning faster and louder as she squeezed the side railing as hard as she could, her body shaking wildly as Cordy continued her torrid pace.

    With the scent of sex filling the air, it was no surprise when a sales lady abruptly knocked on the door, "Hello? What is going on in there?"

    Cordelia pulled back and put her hand against the door, "Nothing miss, we're just trying on some clothes and had a bit trouble with one of our zippers we're trying to get it unstuck. Sorry for the noise."

    "Okay then, but please, let's keep it down in the future." The attractive woman said and then walked swiftly back to the front desk. Willow and Cordy both started laughing and as their eyes met, Willow again turned away and began changing out of the dress.

    "I want to buy that for you." Cordelia said as she helped Willow out of the dress, "Seriously, if it's a problem with the money, then you can pay me back over time, but I want you to wear this Friday when we go out to dinner."

    "Okay." Willow said with a smile, "But, I will pay you back. I think. How much is it again?"

    "You don't want to know." Cordelia said, then picked up the dress and covered the price tag with her hand.

    "Thank you for this. I had fun. I mean, the dress and well, you know, the other stuff too." Willow said as she made eye contact with Cordy for the first time.

    "Oh, I had a lot of fun too. But, we aren't done yet. That was one dress silly, I've got tons more outfits for you to try on." Cordelia got up and opened the door, "You stay here, I'll just bring you back things to try on."

    Willow smiled and sat back as Cordelia brought her every type of outfit under the sun. By the time she was finished, Willow was so used to having her clothes off, she had become comfortable standing naked in the change room, just waiting for the next outfit.

    "Well, that was so much fun. I can't thank you enough for bringing me here. I owe you so much for this." Willow said as she hugged Cordelia.

    "It was so fun for me too. I love shopping and I loved it even more having you to share it with me." Cordelia added as she helped sort through the clothes she wanted Willow to keep.

    "That's too many. I said one was enough, but I can't take all 5 of these things." Willow said, trying to put her foot down on Cordy's generosity, "Two is the most and only because I love this skirt, even if it is way too short for me to wear to school."

    "Take the dress, the skirt and top and these jeans. They can be worn at school and I don't think you even own a pair do you?" Cordelia asked as she piled the three outfits onto her arm and walked out of the change room.

    Willow began to feel the guilt even more as she saw the final bill for the three outfits Cordy wanted her to have. "OMG. I can't let you spend that much."

    "It's a done deal." Cordy said, grabbing the bag from the saleslady and walking back out to her car.

    Cordelia drove Willow home, parked in front of her house, turned the ignition off and looked over at Willow, "I had a great time today. I hope you did too."

    "Oh yes, it was amazing. I've never tried on so many clothes in my life. I had a ball." Willow said, her face beaming with happiness.

    "Good, I'm glad you did." Cordelia said, letting her right hand slide over Willow's left hand, "I know things got really intense back there, but I want you to know I'm not usually like that. I love it, but I guess what I'm saying is, I don't mind taking things slow. If you want to actually do this that is."

    "Do what? This?" Willow said with a smile and then leaned over and kissed Cordelia softly on the lips.

    "Yep, that's what I mean." Cordelia smiled and the two began kissing again, only this time they were interrupted by something much bigger and uglier than the pretty saleslady. Two vamps stood in front of Cordy's car, not doing anything, just staring at the two girls.

    "This isn't good. What are those things?" Willow asked as she held on to Cordelia.

    "I don't know, but I've heard rumors of vampires in Sunnydale since I was a little girl, but this is the first time I've actually seen one." Cordelia said as she turned the ignition, drove past the two vamps and kept going until they were out of sight.

    Buffy and Faith were walking down the street just as Cordy raced around the corner and put on the breaks and quickly backed up and Cordy rolled down her window, "Hey, you better watch out, we just saw two vampires a couple blocks back. You probably shouldn't be walking the streets right now."

    The two girls walked over to the car and Buffy leaned inside, "Hi there, I'm Buffy and this is my friend Faith. Where exactly did you see the vamps?"

    "Just down the street from my house, straight back on the road." Willow said pointing to where she lived.

    "Thanks, maybe you two should find some place safe to be for now." Faith said as she looked around for any sign of vamps.

    "You don't think you are going to fight these things do you?" Cordelia asked, as she kept an eye on her rear view mirror, "I've heard they are very strong and if they bite you and something about you drinking blood from them, you turn into one. Yuck."

    "That's okay, we'll be fine. It's a long story, but we know how to handle them." Buffy said, not wanting to give too much away.

    "Don't say I didn't warn you." Cordelia said and then turned to Willow, "You can stay at my place until we know it's safe."

    "Thanks, that's a good idea." Willow said as she squeezed Cordelia's hand tightly.

    Buffy and Faith stepped away from the car and watched it take off down the street.

    "Well, did you want to go hunt those vamps?" Faith asked, clearly anxious to do get some fighting in.

    "I guess so." Buffy added without much emotion either way. "We have a couple hours to kill, so why don't we try and find these two and then if we have some time I was going to try out this club I heard some kids talking about called The Bronze."

    "I'm for that. I love to dance." Faith said just as she took a punch across her left cheek.

    Buffy jumped across the fallen Faith and began fighting a rather skinny looking vamp, while Faith hopped back to her feet and did the same with a much stranger looking demon.

    It only took Buffy a couple minutes to turn the vamp to dust, but Faith was having one hell of a time trying to damage the roundish demon with a very hard shell that was doing little more than nudge her with its nose.

    "What is this thing?" Faith asked as she pounded away at the creature.

    Buffy stopped to watch Faith fight, spending less time watching her moves than she was watching how she looked in that white t- shirt, "I'd say this is why we have those watchers. I bet they'd know what it was."

    "You think?" Faith said sarcastically, "Thanks for helping though. I hope you're enjoying the show."

    "Oh, I am." Buffy said with a smile. "You don't need help do you? It's not like it's hitting you or anything."

    Faith turned back to Buffy rolling her eyes, "Very funny." After a few more futile attempts to damage the creature Faith stopped and walked back over to Buffy. "Maybe this isn't even a demon. It looks more like an over sized pet than some scary demon."

    "I agree with that, but what was it doing with the vamp?" Buffy asked as she took a couple steps towards the creature, "Seems almost cruel to kill something that isn't fighting back. Well, we could take it with us to the meeting and see if the two suits know anything about it."

    "Might as well." Faith said with a shrug, "How do we get it to follow us?"

    "Good question." Buffy moved away from the creature, hoping make some kind of move. "Hmm, maybe we try and pick it up and carry it? How heavy does it look to you?"

    "You must be kidding?"

    "Well no, but if you have a better idea let's hear it." Buffy said as she folded her arms waiting for Faith to speak.

    Faith walked in a circle around the creature, even getting down on her knees to look under its shell, but found nothing useful, "Why don't we try and push it first? It looks heavy to me with that hard shell all around it. I'd rather not spend my time carrying a demon around."

    "Sure, let's see what happens." Buffy said and then walked behind the demon, with Faith beside her, the two girls began pushing the creature, and after some serious exertion on both their parts, it actually moved about an inch.

    "I have no idea. Let's forget this thing. It looks harmless." Faith said still catching her breath.

    Buffy sat down on the grass beside the creature, "I guess one of us could stay here and the other could bring the two watchers here to have a look."

    "Okay, how do we decide who does what?" Faith asked while taking a seat beside Buffy.

    "I'll stay here and you can get the watchers. If you want." Buffy said, not wanting to have it sound like an order.

    "That's fine. I just don't like leaving you here alone. We still don't know what this thing is capable of." Faith got to her feet and looked back down at Buffy, "I don't want you getting hurt."

    "I'll be fine." Buffy said as she stood up, "I'll stay far enough away from it. Just hurry and I'll see when you get back."

    "I won't be long." Faith said and took off in a flash.

    Buffy walked back over to the creature, gave it a pat on its shell and smiled, "It's just you and me kiddo. I don't suppose you can talk? No? Do you watch TV? No? Okay, what about hobbies? I bet you sleep a lot. So tell me, how does a nice shelled creature like you get mixed up with a vamp anyway?"

    After she got no reaction from the creature, she let out a disappointed sigh, backed up and sat on a park bench about 20 feet away and waited for Faith.

    CHAPTER FIVE

    Back at the Mayor's office.

    Richard Wilkins was on the phone when Wesley and Fred entered his office. He waved them inside and hung up the phone moments later, "I'm glad you're both here. We've uncovered some disturbing information about Angelus."

    "Oh god, is he still on the loose?" Fred asked, her face turning a ghostly shade of white, "I thought the watcher's council had him locked up? They were doing some tests on him the last I heard."

    "It appears that they took the tests one step too far." Said the mayor as he motioned for Fred and Wesley to come look at his computer. "This is the last video of Angelus at the watcher's camp in Liverpool, England."

    Video begins.

    Giles walked into the room where a dozen men and women were scurrying about and walked up to the cage that Angelus was in, "I've been told you've been making steady progress and have shown signs that you'd be willing to accept a new soul. This is good news for all concerned. How do you feel?"

    Angelus looked over at Giles from his bed, "I feel different now. I have so much remorse for what I've done. The guilt is overwhelming. It's almost most too much to take."

    "Well yes, it is long struggle to come to terms with the carnage you've left throughout the land." Giles studied Angelus' every expression, every word, every emotion he'd had since he was brought to Liverpool some 15 years ago. "Tell me Angelus, and don't lie, do you still crave human blood?"

    "I can't lie, I do crave it, but I don't crave the killing. I have gotten used to the pig's blood and I feel no ill feelings towards any of you any longer. I deserve to be in a cage for what I've." Angelus got up and walked slowly towards Giles, "Only thing I haven't figured out is why you haven't staked me."

    "We all felt we could get more information out of you alive. Study you and find out what made you more dangerous, destructive and elusive to capture for all those years." Giles said as he turned, found a chair and sat down, "It seems that your genetic makeup is the tiniest bit different than other vampires. While most vampires lose all capacity for thought, reasoning and emotions, you retained some of this through a genetic anomaly, allowing you to think before you act. In many ways, it has made you a super killing machine."

    "That's fascinating." Angelus said, his face lighting up at this newfound information. "Is there any way you can cure me of this? I know I don't deserve a second chance, but if there was some way I could go out and do good in the world, I would appreciate the chance to make up for all I've done."

    "We've been talking about that, but first, we have one more test to run." Giles said as she got to his feet and walked slightly closer to the cage, still not willing to get within Angelus' reach. "Along with the soul, there's a new drug we've designed that should suppress your vampire urges as well as neutralizing the genes that went untouched when you first became a vampire. Then, as with all tests, it will take months, perhaps years to fully monitor the results."

    Angelus let out a smile just before he turned around, "I see. Well, I'm all for this new test. Anything that helps cure me is what I want."

    "That's good to hear. If we are able to do this, we could help save hundreds and thousands of vampires." Giles said as a woman walked up to him with a large needle and a vial of blood. "Thank you."

    Giles prepped the needle, handed it and the vial of blood to the head technician and backed up out of the room.

    "Angelus, please sit on your bed, put on your shackles and stay still as we proceed." Said the average sized man as he stood in front of the cage, fully covered in a specially designed body suit, able to withstand the piercing teeth of a vampire.

    Hooking himself up to the wall, Angelus then sat on his bed, turned his head and waited for the man to enter his cage. With a wave of his hand, the man motioned for another man in the security booth to open the heavy steel cage. Once inside the man walked slowly towards Angelus, stopping beside him as he put the vial of blood in Angelus' left hand.

    Angelus was quick to drink it up, still savoring the taste and texture of the warm liquid. As the man squirted the needle to make sure it was working, Angelus turned towards him, "Please, could you put it in arm this time, my neck is still sore from the last one."

    Nodding yes, the man moved closer to Angelus, pulled up his sleeve and moved the needled into position. Before he could push it into his arm, Angelus knocked the man to the ground with a quick lunge forward.

    Dropping the key from his mouth onto the bed, Angelus ripped his shackles off the wall, grabbed the man in the suit, took the vial and smashed it on the ground.

    Rushing towards the door, Angelus was outside his cage for the first time in over 15 years. He wasted no time killing, his mission was to escape not feed. Still, anyone who got in the way, was treated as an enemy and tossed across the room with no mercy at all.

    Giles rang the emergency alarm, but it didn't go off. He turned and ran through the corridor and down the hall to his secured room. Closing the door behind him, he could only watch on the monitor as Angelus meticulously made his way through the huge complex, stopping outside the main gate of the Liverpool headquarters', he turned to the camera and smiled, "Hello Giles, you are a very stupid man. You may be alive now, but you won't be for long. I'll hunt you down and when I catch you I won't kill you. No, I've got better things planned for you. How do you like torture? Cause I'm a big fan myself. I've never in my life wanted to hurt someone as much as I want and will hurt you. Take solace in the fact that you have some time to prepare yourself for a very long and painful death. Anyway, I'm off to kill some more and I'll see you soon."

    Shutting off the VCR, Richard sat back in his chair, "This happened over a year ago and we were never informed. Apparently Angelus has been living a very quiet, unassuming life since then. Not drawing attention to himself and yet from all our reports he has become even more powerful than before."

    "Is he behind the Horde?" Fred asked.

    "No, our sources tell us he's changed his ways in order to not only survive, but to flourish in the new and changing world. Something he never did before. Quite the clever lad isn't he? I'm impressed," the mayor said with a hint of.

    Fred was anything but impressed with the mayor's attitude. "How can you say that? He's nothing more than a killer."

    "Ah, that is a bit naïve isn't it Fred?" The mayor said as he sat back down at his computer, "What we have here is an already unique vampire, who managed to survive for hundreds of years, when the vast majority of his kind were eliminated. That alone shows he's got above average intelligence. Add to the mix 15 years where he basically learned how humans work, think and exactly how they planned to 'fix' him. He's only going to be more cautious now, which does make him more dangerous."

    "I see your point." Fred acknowledged as she hopped up on the desk.

    "Yes, we have more than one threat on our hands now and two very inexperienced slayers about to be baptized by fire." Wesley added, leaning down and picking a small piece of paper off the floor.

    "What's that?" Richard asked, stepping up beside Wesley.

    "It's a piece of the dark magic journals. Someone was here."

    "That's not possible. My office has the highest security money can buy." The mayor added as he ran back to the back room, unlocked the door and then had to use a key to enter yet another door, before he got to the safe.

    Fred and Wesley were watching as the mayor opened the safe to find it empty, "No!!! This can't be happening. I want the security tapes of this whole building bought here at once. If there is a traitor in the midst there is going to be hell to pay."

    "I'll get right on it sir." Wesley said as he rushed out the door.

    "What does this mean?" Fred asked, not sure if she wanted to hear the answer.

    "The books alone are useless to anyone without the knowledge to use them. Our last estimates had only 3 people with the skill to learn some of the most devastating spells the world has ever seen." The mayor slowly walked back to his desk, pulled up a secured file and pointed at the screen, "Here they are. Two of these people work for us. Enchantress Eelissera, Mistress Helena, but unfortunately the last one does not. Anya is the name, but aside from being a very powerful vengeance demon, she has spent the last 100 odd years learning all she can about magic, specifically the dark magics. She had intended to use them to enhance her vengeance skills, but found them so addictive she began focusing solely on dark magic, thus making her our top priority."

    "Well, if she's this powerful we must have someone tracking her." Fred said, scrolling down the site to read more about Anya.

    "She's not an easy woman to keep track of. She has the ability to orb from place to place seemingly at will," the mayor said, as he paced back and forth at an increased speed. "Our last visual sighting of her was in LA just last year, but she disappeared and hasn't been seen since."

    Wesley ran into the room with a large garbage bin full of video tapes. He looked over at Fred and smiled, "Well, I guess you have some tapes to watch."

    "Hey, how did this become my job? I'm a scientist and researcher. I don't do video." Fred said and then tried to sneak out of the office.

    "Miss Burkle. Stop right there." Richard walked back to his computer and sat down, "We'll take turns. Let's have two people watching the tapes so nothing is missed. The other will do a thorough investigation into this Anya's whereabouts."

    Fred was smiling as she turned around and walked back to the room, "Yes sir."

    Faith walked into the room as they were rearranging the TV and VCR, "Wow, what's playing tonight and please don't say Titanic."

    "Ah, Faith, glad you could make it." Richard said as he walked up and shook her hand, "Where's Buffy? She's supposed to be here too."

    "She's on duty right now." Faith said as she walked over to the corner table, grabbed a muffin and continued, "We found something that we need identified and she's watching it while I come get one of you to have a look at it."

    "Could you be a bit more specific?" Wesley asked as he got out his notebook.

    "It showed up with a vamp. We toasted the vamp and then saw this thing on the ground. It looks like a turtle without a head. A shell that is harder than a rock. It's incredibly heavy. Yet, it doesn't seem to be functioning. We figured if it was sent by the Horde and is just malfunctioning, you guys could find a way to use it to our advantage."

    "That's very wise Faith." The mayor said as he patted Faith on the back, "Let's see, take Fred with you. She's probably the most knowledgeable when it comes to the strange and unexplained."

    Fred walked up to Faith and turned to the two men, "Okay then, we'll have a look at this thing and be back for the meeting when we're done."

    Outside the Summers' home.

    Spike walked up the steps of Buffy's house, peeked in the front window and then went around to the back. Peering in through the kitchen window, he saw the two women he was looking for.

    Dawn was helping get dinner ready, setting the table and even doing most of the cooking as her mom was on the phone non-stop since she'd been home.

    Leaning up against the window, Spike waved across the yard, sending two vamps in motion, which set off a chain of events that would eventually activate a dozen of Spike's men around the Summers' home.

    Joyce got off the phone, put it in her purse and walked up to Dawn in the kitchen, "I'm so sorry sweetheart, I didn't mean for you to get stuff with all the cooking. Have a seat, let me do the rest."

    "Okay, but I don't mind helping you know." Dawn said as she sat down in her usual chair to the right of her mom.

    "I'm glad you are here to help and I appreciate it so much, but where is your sister? She should be here when you get home." Joyce said as she put the food on the table and sat down at the end of the table, "We've talked about this, especially on your first day in a new school. How did that go?"

    "It was fine I guess." Dawn shrugged, "I don't know where Buffy is. She's usually here when I get home. Maybe they have different hours at this school or maybe she actually made some friends and went out."

    "She could still wait until I got home and make sure you are okay before she does anything." Joyce said with a very unhappy tone.

    "Mom, it's okay, I can take care myself." Dawn said, still trying to convince her mom of how grown up she is. "I'm not a kid anymore."

    "I know, but this isn't about you, it's about Buffy." Joyce said just as her cell phone went off. Getting up from her seat Joyce walked over and grabbed her cell phone, "Hello."

    "Joyce, you look pretty tonight. I love that sweater on you."

    "Who is this?" she asked calmly, not wanting to alarm Dawn.

    "You can call me Spike. I've come for you and your daughter." He said, watching Joyce walk over and put her arm around Dawn.

    "I don't know who you are, but you better get lost or I'm calling the police."

    "I'm not so sure you want to do that."

    "Oh and why's that?" Joyce asked, taking a quick look around the kitchen.

    Spike stepped up to the back door, knocked on it and watched as Joyce walked straight towards him.

    As she opened the door she spotted the cell phone in his hand and quickly closed it and put her phone up to her mouth, "I don't know why you are doing this, but you need to leave right now."

    "I'm not leaving and you are going to come with me. It's not a question of choice." Spike said as he stared in through the back window.

    Dawn got up and walked over to her mom. "What's that man doing at our back door?"

    "It's nothing to worry about Dawn." Joyce said with her best attempt at a smile, "Please go up to your room and lock the door and do not come out until I call you."

    "Mom, I'm not leaving you alone. Call the police and they'll take care of it." Dawn said, as she gave Spike a dirty look.

    "Don't argue about this. Not now. I will call the police, but I want you in your room and the door locked." Joyce said and then took Dawn by the hand and led her up to her room so there'd be no more debate about it.

    Dawn reluctantly went into her room and turned back to her mom, "I don't want anything to happen to you."

    "I know, but I'll be fine. I promise." Joyce gave Dawn a hug and then closed the door and waited for it to lock. "Good, I'll be back up to get you soon."

    When she walked back into the kitchen there was no sign of Spike, but she wasn't taking any chances so she got on the phone and called the police.

    Down the street from Buffy's house Spike was walking in the opposite direction with his posse following right behind. One of the vamps decided to say something about what had just took place, "Hey Spike, why are leaving? You didn't get the two girls."

    "Oh bloody hell, I explained this to you at the last briefing. Doesn't anyone pay attention? You're vampires, not morons." Spike chided, "To repeat myself, the point was not to get the women now. The point was to make the slayer aware of this. Once she knows her family is in danger she will be distracted. When that happens, she's going to make a mistake. Mark my words, I will have the slayer's family in my control, but on my terms. Is that clear? Any questions?"

    There was silence in the group for the first minute or so and then one vamp got the nerve up to talk, "I have a question. What about the other slayer? She's not related to the Summers girl. Won't she still be focused on her job?"

    Spike paused before answering as he tried to think of the best response, "From what we know, the slayers act as one. If one is in trouble, the other will feel the pain and try to help. What's most important here is to mess with slayer's heads."

    "Okay, but wouldn't we still mess with their heads if we took the two girls now?" another vamp asked from the middle of the group.

    "Why, why, why do I pick such wankers?" Spike said as he turned and started walking away, then stopped to look at his posse, "Doesn't anyone grasp the concept of time? There is no rush. We have time on our sides. Or do you even realize you can live forever?"

    "Not if we get staked by an angry slayer we won't," said another voice from the crowd.

    "That's it. End of discussion." Spike snapped and took off down the street.

    As he got to the end and began to turn through the park, two figures stepped out from behind a large tree and walked towards him.

    "Spike, we meet again."

    "I don't have time for you Gunn. I have enough headaches already." Spike said as he walked between Gunn and Anya.

    "What's the rush?" Anya asked as she stepped in front of Spike.

    Spike walked right up to Anya, "I don't care who you are. I don't even care if you're a girl. If you don't get out of my way I'm going to tear your head off and punt your head through the trees over there."

    "Don't we have some anger issues? Yes, you do." Anya said with a smile as she walked around Spike with her hands around his shoulders, "But that's fine, I'm not here to shrink you, I'm here because I think you would be a good addition to our team."

    "I know who you work for and I could care less. If I wanted to work for someone else, I'd be one of these flunkies here." Spike said pointing to his posse, "But, I like to be in charge. I know things will work out that way."

    "We all want to be in charge, but that doesn't always work out." Gunn stepped up to Spike and looked down at the much shorter vamp, "We have ways to help you that you've never dreamed about. Nothing has to change about you being in charge. You'd just be working for and with a much larger operation. The main goal of both of us is the same."

    "Oh bugger off, you have no idea what my goal is." Spike pushed Gunn out of the way and began walking away.

    Anya jumped in front of him again, "Listen, you aren't a very easy person to like, but we don't need to like you to work with you. You might want to at least look into what you are turning down."

    "How many different ways do I need to say no before you get a clue?" Spike said as he turned and decked Gunn with a right hand and did the same to Anya, and then stood over both of them, "That's a warning. Next time you die."

    Gunn got to his feet, his blood boiling with rage, but Anya stepped in front of him, "Let me handle this." She said and then walked towards Spike, "We tried and it didn't work out, but you need to learn some manners. Not everyone is afraid of you Spike. Believe it or not, you don't really register in the big picture. I feel it's important to give you a glimpse of what you can expect if you ever touch me again."

    "I'm shaking in my boots." Spike mocked, "I know you. You're nothing more than a vengeance demon. As I see it, you can't touch me unless some girly wishes it. Stop crying to me because you have issues with men."

    Gunn smiled and looked over at Spike, "You really should say you're sorry very quickly."

    "Like that's gonna happen." Spike said with a laugh.

    "Okay, but don't say I didn't warn you." Gunn said with a big smile.

    "Keep smiling there big guy. I just love a big neck to bite into." Spike said with a threatening tone.

    "Oh no, now it's my turn to be shaking in my boots. Bring it on." Gunn said, as he shifted to combat ready

    Spike took that as a challenge and was about to make a move when he saw Anya doing something in the background.

    Anya stepped back and began chanting, her eyes growing darker as she did. With her chanting becoming louder and more intense, everyone around knew something was about to give.

    Spike's posse had taken off through the woods and Gunn knew enough to step back out of the way, as Anya thrust her hands towards Spike. When nothing happened right away, Spike began laughing and started to walk away.

    After taking a couple steps, he stopped and fell to his knees and began shaking uncontrollably. He grabbed his stomach, then his chest and finally his head as he fell to the ground, "What have you done you bitch?"

    Anya hopped on over towards Spike and with Gunn by her side she just shook her head, "This is just a small taste of what you can expect if you ever try anything like that again. Luckily for you, I don't want you dead, yet. So this will wear off in a couple hours. Enjoy the experience, because next time you won't be so lucky." She then walked right up to Spike and patted him on the head, "Oh and don't ever call me a bitch. Bye now."

    Gunn tossed Spike another one of his business cards and then turned and walked away with Anya.

    Spike crawled to his knees and then made it to his feet, but could not understand why he felt so different. He took a few more steps and fell to the ground, this time tripping over his own feet.

    As he looked down to see what he tripped over, his face turned white, then red and he let out a scream the likes of which had never been heard before.

    A young boy came running from the playground when he heard the screams and when he spotted Spike he ran up to him, "Are you okay?"

    "I'm fine. Get lost you little brat." Spike said, his voice unrecognizable, which made him scream again.

    The little boy stared at Spike while holding up his little fist, "If you weren't a girl I'd punch your lights out." He said loudly and then walked away shaking his head.

    Spike looked down at the dress he was wearing and moved his hands up his body, and over his now soft pretty skin and he leaned down, pulled up the dress and began running as fast as he could.

    CHAPTER SIX

    Sunnydale Mall

    Xander was walking through the mall doing nothing but killing time when he spotted Darla and Harmony sitting at a diner having a drink. He checked his hair in the window, took a deep breath and walked casually up to them, "Hi there. Fancy meeting you here."

    Harmony looked up from her cappuccino, "What do you want Harris?"

    "I was just walking by and saw two pretty girls and thought I'd come say hi. So hi again." He said, wondering why he could never say what he had planned.

    "Hi Xander. I like that jacket on you." Darla said with a sexy whisper.

    "Oh this old thing?" Xander said grabbing his jacket and for some reason taking it off, "Here, you can have it." He said as he put it in Darla's lap.

    "Um, thanks, but don't you need it?" Darla asked as took a closer look at his jacket.

    "Me? Nah, I have hundreds just like it. I buy them in bulk." Xander said and as he looked at the two confused girls staring back at him, he tried to make things better, "So, what are you two doing here? Shopping I guess. I know girls like to shop."

    "Actually yes, we are doing a little shopping. Did you want to join us?" Harmony asked with the slightest hint of a laugh.

    "I don't know. Is that allowed?" Xander asked, honestly confused by the question.

    "Of course it is." Harmony assured, "Come on, we are going to look for bikinis."

    "Harmony, stop teasing Xander." Darla said as she nudged Harmony's arm.

    Xander let out a sigh of disappointment, "I knew it was too good to be true."

    "Oh it's true Xander, but I don't think it would be fair to make you wait for us as we tried on countless bikinis." Darla added as she looked back at Xander.

    "Well you know; I do have some free time on my hands. If I could be any help I'd sure love to try." Xander added, his fingers crossed as he hoped his dreams were about to come true or at least one of them.

    "Sure, why not." Darla said as she got up from the table and took Xander's hand, "This might just be more fun than I thought."

    Harmony got up and hurried up beside Darla, "I thought you were kidding? I don't want Xander drooling all over the floor through all this. Ewe."

    "I'm sure he won't do that." Darla said as she smiled at Xander.

    "I don't want to answer that on the grounds it might ruin this moment." Xander looked over at Harmony and tried to wish her gone, but alas, it didn't work.

    Darla put her arm around the sulking Harmony, "Be a sport Harmony, Xander will be the perfect person to tell us what's hot and what's not."

    "Fine, but I am not wearing a thong for him." Harmony snapped.

    "Good, I'd like to keep my eyes thanks." Xander shot back.

    "Hey, hey. Let's have a truce or we can call this off." Darla said as she looked at both Xander and Harmony.

    "That's fine with me." Harmony said with a big smile.

    "Maybe you should do this another time." Xander countered, "I'm thinking like never."

    "You're such a pig Harris." Harmony stuck her tongue out at Xander and then put her arms on Darla's shoulders, "Please, let's do this tomorrow."

    Darla pulled Harmony in for a big warm, lingering hug and then ran her hands through her long blonde hair, "I know you can do this, it's really not going to hurt. Ignore Xander if you have to. Don't forget we have that beach party at Cordy's next month."

    Xander was trying to take in everything he'd just seen and heard and was having a tough time finding words to speak. Harmony leaned in and put her head on Darla's shoulder, smiling back at Xander as she hugged Darla very tightly, "Okay, for you I'll do it."

    "That's great Harmony." Darla said and then gave her a quick kiss on the lips.

    Xander did a double take and almost lost his balance, wondering if he had just seen what he thought he'd seen.

    "Xander, are you okay?" Darla asked as she put her arm on his wrist to help steady him.

    "I honestly don't know." Xander said as he turned to see Darla slide her hand up his arm and onto his shoulder. "I think I need to sit down."

    "Well good, let's just head on over to the swimsuit section and you can sit and enjoy the show." Darla said as she took both Xander and Harmony by the hand and led them through the store until they arrived at the far corner of the store.

    Darla sat Xander down in a small chair and then began sifting through the racks of swimwear.

    After what seemed like forever, the girls took their piles of clothes back to the changing rooms and to Xander's surprise walked into the same booth, even though there were 4 other empty ones beside it.

    All Xander could see were clothes falling to the ground along with some giggling before the door opened and Darla walked out.

    In his dreams, the girl was wearing exactly what Darla had on. An itsy bitsy, teenie weenie, yellow polka dot bikini. It was a curious dream no doubt, but the fact Darla was wearing it as surely a sign of destiny to Xander.

    Darla walked out confident as always. She walked right up to Xander, spun around behind and then stood right in front of his feet, "Well, what do you think?"

    Xander didn't have to say anything, his eyes and smile said more than enough.

    When Darla turned to walk away, Xander couldn't hold back, "Wow." Darla looked over her shoulder, smiled and walked back into the changing room.

    Harmony came out moments later. She was wearing a very sexy light blue bikini, showing off her very impressive body much to the surprise of Xander.

    Trying hard not to enjoy Harmony, he had to turn away as she got close and teased him by leaning forward, putting her breasts right up to his face.

    "What's a matter Xander, cat got your tongue? Or does it have something else instead?" she laughed and walked slowly back to the changing room.

    While Xander waited for Darla to come back out, he was stunned to see Willow walking towards him and even more surprised to see Cordelia walking right along with her.

    "Hi Xander." Willow said as she looked around at where Xander was sitting, "What are you doing sitting outside the ladies changing room?"

    Xander stood up and tried to push both Willow and Cordelia as far away as he could, "It's a long story. I'll tell you all about later on. Now, you should go and shop and have fun and do girly things and have lots of fun. Okay? I'll call you later. There's a sale on something good upstairs. You should check it out."

    "What is wrong with you? You're acting crazy and you are making no sense at all?" Willow asked, still unsure what was going on. There would be no more waiting as Darla walked out wearing the tiniest white string bikini ever made.

    Xander stopped to stare at Darla and for a brief moment, he forgot all his troubles, "Wow again. Can I just say you need to buy that one now."

    "I'm glad you like it." Darla said and then walked up to Cordelia, "How are you? I didn't know you were going to be here. I called your place and you weren't home."

    "Oh yes, I was out with Willow. We actually just finished some shopping, but had a run in with one of those vampire things we saw in school today."

    "Oh my gosh, are you okay?" Darla asked, giving Cordelia a big hug.

    Xander smiled and looked over at Willow, "She's very friendly."

    "I can see that." Willow said, not overly impressed with Darla's hands being so close to Cordelia's cute ass.

    "We're both fine. We got away and then the two new girls said they'd take care of it." Cordelia said as she pulled back from Darla.

    "I'm glad to hear that." Darla smiled and then turned to Xander, "You both know Xander right? You and Xander are good friends aren't you Willow?"

    Willow nodded and smiled towards Xander, "Yes, we've known each other since we were little."

    "Isn't that nice." Darla said and then was interrupted by Harmony.

    "You better close your eyes Xander, because this is one is going to burn them up." Harmony said as she stumbled out of the change room in a bright red bikini. With everyone staring at her, Harmony suddenly felt uncomfortable, "Well, what is this, a peep show?"

    "No Harmony, Willow and I just dropped by and saw this very bizarre situation and had to have a look." Cordelia explained as she took in Harmony's new look. "Oh, nice bikini by the way."

    "Oh thanks." Harmony said with a shy smile, always happy to hear compliment, "Are you two here for bikinis? Because it's already crowded in our change room."

    Cordelia shook her head no and rolled her eyes at the suggestion, "No, we are just on our way to get something to eat, but I wanted return this dress and well, here we are."

    "I see. So, you and Willow are going to dinner together, how interesting." Harmony said as she looked directly at Willow.

    "Why is it interesting Harmony?" Xander asked, "Weren't you having something to eat with Darla earlier?"

    "Yeah, but that's different." Harmony whined.

    Darla could see where all this was leading and jumped in front of Harmony, "Anyway, it was good to see you both. I think we're done here so I'll call you when I get home." She said as she touched Cordelia's arm.

    "Good, I'll talk to you later then." Cordelia gave Darla another hug and looked back at Harmony, but didn't say a word.

    Xander pulled Willow to the side, "What are you doing with Cordelia?"

    "Not now Xander, I'll call you later. Have fun with your little booty show." Willow said with a smile and then walked over to Cordelia disappeared through the store.

    "Well, I'm done here. No more free show for you Xander." Harmony said in a huff, walked back and slammed the door behind her.

    "Touchy isn't she?" Xander said with a laugh.

    "Oh, don't pay any attention to her. She'll be fine." Darla said, her attention now back on Xander, "So, I hope you had fun before your friend showed up."

    Xander could do nothing but smile, "I had a great time. I'm just sorry it ended so soon."

    "Oh, but sometimes it's good, the anticipation of what might've been gives you something to look forward to." Darla's soft sexy whisper was driving Xander crazy.

    "I'm sure you're right for some things, but I feel like I might've just missed the best part." Xander said, struggling to find the good.

    Harmony walked out and pulled Darla away from Xander, "Can we go now? We were going to do each other's nails tonight, remember?"

    "Yes, I remember and we're still gong to do that." Darla said and then turned back to Xander, "Well, as you see I have to go, but I had fun tonight. I'll see you in school tomorrow. Maybe we can have lunch together."

    "I'd like that." Xander said, then took a big gamble and began to lean forward to kiss Darla when Harmony jumped in the way.

    "Goodbye Xander." She said with a satisfied smile.

    Darla shrugged her shoulder and then walked back and changed out of her bikini.

    "That was really smooth Harmony. What are you, her guardian?" Xander asked, more than a little upset with Harmony.

    "Yes I am. I guard her from losers like you." Harmony said as rudely as she could muster. "Her lips are way too soft and pure to be touched by the likes of yours."

    "Hello? Her lips are too soft and pure? What does that mean?" Xander said, knowing full well what he thought it meant.

    "Nothing, just shut up Xander." Harmony said as she turned her back on Xander.

    Xander stood there with a confused look on his face until he realized what was going on, "OMG. You can't possibly be serious." He stopped, moved forward and put his arm around her. "Well, well, well, Harmony Kendall has a thing for Darla."

    Harmony remained silent, which was a darn impressive trick for her.

    "Okay, you don't have to say anything. It all makes sense now. I'm sorry to say that you're out of your league." He said with a mocking grin, "And if you're my only competition I feel like everything is about to start going my way."

    "Don't be so sure of yourself Xander. You have no idea the bond Darla and I share. So go ahead, put the moves on her, use that ounce of charm you think you have and dazzle her with your sweet talk. In fact, the more you talk, the better my chances get." Harmony let out a spontaneous laugh.

    "Laugh away, but there's more to me than meets the eye. I can be quite dashing, debonair and downright irresistible to women when I want to be." Xander said proudly.

    "OMG, that's hilarious. I guess you just never wanted to be all those things to women before? Yeah right Xander. It's good you have a sense of humor about it anyway." Harmony said, feeling good about herself once again.

    Darla walked out of the change room, picked two of the bikinis out that she was buying, went about putting the rest back on the racks and then stepped in between the two combatants. "I hope you two are getting along."

    "We sure are. I think we both see things much more clearly now." Xander said, putting his arm around Darla's waist.

    "Yes, we sorted out a few things and I think everything will turn out just the way it was meant to." Harmony added as she put her hand below Xander's, resting just above Darla's shapely ass.

    Xander looked down and quickly put his hand even lower, but Harmony did the same thing and soon they were both cupping her firm ass as she looked down at them with a very puzzled look, "Get your hands off my ass, both of you."

    They both pulled away immediately and looked sheepishly at Darla.

    "Okay, I don't know what's going on between you two, but keep me and my ass out of it." Darla said firmly, and then took a breath and smiled at Xander, "I have to go now, but I had fun and I'll see you tomorrow."

    Harmony took Darla's hand and they walked out of the store.

    As they got to the exit Harmony turned to Xander and then put her hand back around Darla's waist, just inches above her ass, and smiled at Xander as they left the building.

    Xander could do nothing but shake his head and think to himself how any other time the sight of the two women together would've turned him on in an instant, yet this time it was making him jealous. As he looked around, he quickly made a hasty dash from of the women's wear section and headed home.

    Sunnydale Park.

    Buffy was sitting quietly on the park bench when Faith and Fred walked up to her. "Hey there. Any movement from the creature?" Faith asked as she stepped in front of Buffy.

    "Not a peep. I think it's broke." Buffy said, getting to her feet.

    Fred moved over to Buffy, "Hi Buffy, we talked on the phone earlier. I'm Fred and I am here to help identify your little friend here."

    "Nice to meet you." Buffy said as she stared up at the tall brunette, "Always nice to put a face to a voice."

    "I hope I didn't disappoint." Fred said with a cute grin.

    "Not at all. You're taller than what I expected, but I'm not the least disappointed." Buffy said as she smiled back at Fred.

    "Um hello." Faith said as she turned back to the creature, "I believe this thing is why we're here."

    "Right you are." Fred said as she turned her attention to the creature on the ground. "It looks like a variation of a tracking device we saw last year. This one is slightly bigger, has a different shell, but let's see if we can turn it on its back."

    Buffy and Faith moved over to the device, grabbed it at opposite ends and slowly but surely turned it over.

    Once on its shell, Fred walked over and began looking at the soft underbelly, "This is very strange. In many ways this does look like a live creature of some kind. I see nothing mechanical on this thing. We need to get this back to the lab. I'm going to call and have a unit come here and haul this away. Excuse me." Fred said as she took a couple steps and made her call.

    Buffy still had her eyes on Fred when Faith moved into her line of sight, "Could you be more obvious?"

    "What?"

    "You're staring right at her." Faith said shaking her head.

    "No, I wasn't staring. I was just waiting for her to make the call." Buffy explained, turning away from Faith.

    Faith stepped back in front of her, "I bet you were. Do you flirt with