Genesis
by EPD
Rating: NC-17

Cordelia made her way to the kitchen to get something to snack on she hadn’t eaten much at lunch and had decided that dinner was too far away to wait. As she entered the kitchen she saw the Slayers enter through the door at the rear giggling to themselves, she smiled at them thankful that someone in their group had finally admitted their feelings for one another.

“Hey Queen C, whatcha doin?” Faith drawled spotting the taller brunette.

“Well Faith, I’m playing pool, whatcha think I’m doing?” Cordy answered flippantly.

“Hey, woh down there C, I only asked.” Faith raised her hands in mock surrender looking concerned at her friend.

“Sorry Faith, I didn’t mean to snap, I’m tired I guess.”

Faith looked at her for a moment then turned her attention to the petite blonde who was looking rather confused at the small exchange between the two. Placing a soft kiss on her lips, Faith moved her mouth so that it was just a breath away from Buffy’s ear. “Would you mind leaving us for a bit, I think I better find out what’s got up her ass.” She whispered chuckling softly and she felt Buffy shiver from the feeling of her hot breath on her ear.

“Ah, yeah no probs, I’ll ah, see you upstairs.” Buffy replied backing away from her girlfriend and trying to calm her breathing.

Faith waited for Buffy to leave the kitchen then turned to the brunette who was currently riffling through the contents of the refrigerator.

“So Cordy spill!” Faith stated when she knew that they were alone.

“Huh, spill what?” Cordy turned to look at her confused.

“Don’t give me that C, I know you too well, something’s crawled up your ass, so spill, what’s gotten into you girl?” The brunette asked with a concerned tone moving to sit on a stool next to the breakfast bar.

“Can’t hide from you huh?” Cordy smiled softly and moved to join her friend, putting her head in her hands she sighed out slowly, she raised her head and looked at the brunette. “I think I’m in love with Angel.” She stated softly.

“You only just figured that out huh?” Faith smiled.

“Am I that obvious?”

“No don’t worry, I guessed from before yunno, when you used to come visit, you used to get this look in your eyes every time you mentioned him, took me a while to figure it out, but I got there.”

“I just don’t know what to do, I can’t feel this way. I mean I can’t fall in love with him.” Cordy put her head back in her hands.

Faith placed her hand on Cordy’s back and moved it gently trying to sooth her. “Listen C, no-one can stop who they fall in love with, I mean look at me and B, who woulda thought it, god Cordy we almost killed each other back in the day, but I don’t think I could live without her now.” Faith smiled thinking about how she felt about the blonde.

“Did I ever say I’m happy for you?” Cordy turned to her friend.

“Nope, I don’t think you did, but thanks, it’s good to have someone who cares about me for a change.” Faith lowered he head, she hated feeling alone and the confession she had revealed to Buffy earlier was still fresh in her. “Look C, I know you don’t wanna be feeling like this, and from Angel’s current soul situation I can see why.” Faith wiggled her eyebrows. “But you Cordy you gotta give these things a chance, talk to him, see how he feels, and go from there, but please Cordy, don’t give up on this, it’s about time the two of you had some happiness.”

“When did you get all Oprah on me?” Cordy laughed.

“What can I say, I’ve seen the light.” Faith chuckled.

Cordy stood and enveloped Faith in a big hug she smiled when she felt Faith’s arms encircle her and hugged her back strongly. “Hey Slayer, mind the merchandise.” v“Oh come on C, I gotta cop a feel when I get the chance.”

“Don’t let your girlfriend catch you.” Cordy laughed while playfully slapping Faith on the arm.

Laughing to themselves they left the kitchen and made their way back to their respective places, Cordy back to the library and Faith up to her girlfriend.

Everyone had gathered in the main dining room for dinner tonight, and were chatting animatedly about the current happenings. Dawn had been talking to a couple of the trainees when she noticed that Vi had hardly touched her dinner. Turning to face the young girl she spoke softly, “You ok Vi?”

“Yea, I’m just a little nervous about tonight I guess, I mean I know I’m ready and stuff, but it’s still a big thing you know?” Vi answered shyly.

“Yeah I know, but Vi we wouldn’t send you out alone unless we thought you were ready, we all have confidence in you and Rhona, the both of you have proved that you’re ready, you just have to make sure you believe it too.” Dawn answered trying to reassure her friend.

“I know, thanks Dawn.” Vi offered and returned to her food, this time trying to eat some of it.

Buffy had heard their little exchange and was smiling proudly at her sister, for someone so young she seemed to have grown so quickly, she had been through and seen so much, it saddened Buffy a little that her kid sister couldn’t have a normal life, but then again none of them could, she glanced around the table looking at all the people there, from the original Scooby gang to the LA group and now the addition of all the new Slayers. She sighed a little hoping that all the new girls understood what it was that they were giving up, the pressure that they would feel every minute of every day, each time they went on patrol, each time a fight went wrong and one got away how many lives would they not be able to save.

Faith was sitting close to Buffy at the crowded table and heard the soft sigh from the blonde she looked up and could see concern in her lover’s eyes.

“Hey, you ok?” She asked in a whisper.

“Yeah I’m good, just thinking is all.” Buffy replied smiling gently at the brunette.

“Tell me later?” Faith questioned wondering what her girlfriend had been thinking about, but deep down she knew what it was, she knew that Buffy took a lot on herself, trying to protect everyone, and not only did she have to protect her friends she had a whole bunch of young girls that had to be shown exactly how to fight and stay alive.

At that point Faith decided she was not going to let Buffy take all the responsibility, she was going to show her that she could let go a little and let the others take more of a supporting role to all of them. Buffy was not going to be alone in her decisions anymore, Faith was going to make sure that the ‘Chosen two’ were going to be on equal footing and that she was going to lessen the burden on her girlfriend's shoulders.

“Yeah, I’ll tell you later, it’s nothing really.” Buffy tried to wave off the concern that was shown in her lover’s eyes.

Turning back to the group she looked over at the two young girls who were going to go out on their first unsupervised patrol, she remembered back to when she had to go out alone for the first time, sure she hadn’t had as much training as the new girls had had, but she could see the nervousness in the young girls. Rising from her chair she called to both of them to follow her.

The three made their way into the library, Buffy just wanted to help them relax a little, and to show them that they had all the support they could need, but she was also giving them a chance for an out, if they didn’t think they were ready, then she wasn’t going to force them to go.

“So, you guys ready for this?” The blonde asked them as they sat around the large oak table.

“Yep, just a bit nervous you know.” Vi answered, turning to look at her soon to be slaying partner.

“Rhona, what about you? Are you ready for this?” Buffy asked with concern.

“Yeah I’m ready, ‘snot like we haven’t had to fight before, it just it's a little strange knowing that what ever decisions we make are our own.” She looked at Buffy for support.

“Listen you guys, whatever goes down tonight remember the first rule of slaying “Stay alive” don’t worry if you let them get away, just make sure you both come home safely, this is your first time out alone and I know first hand how hard it can be. Both of you are tremendous fighters, you proved that when we fought ‘The First’ and every time that you’ve gone out on patrol you’ve both come a long way since you first arrived in Sunnydale and I believe in you, we all do. So like I said, go out and kick some un-dead ass, just make sure you got each others’ backs ok.”

“Ok, thanks Buffy.” Vi replied.

“Yeah, thanks Buff, we’ll be fine, just a little first night nerves.” Rhona smiled letting the blonde know she understood all that was said and that she was grateful for this little pep talk.

“Alrighty then, I s’pose it’s time you both went and got yourselves tooled up and ready, I’ll meet you in the lobby in say ten minutes.” Buffy offered standing and making her way back out of the library and back towards the dinning room.

Gathering everyone together in the lobby they waited for the two SIT’s to arrive, there was a little buzzing noise as all the remaining SIT’s were talking about the two that were going out alone, some were confident in what they were saying others seemed a little scared at the prospect of having to go out alone.

Entering the large lobby Vi and Rhona smiled at the group assembled in front of them, these were their friends all here lending a supporting hand, they felt good knowing that all these people were beginning to feel like family to them, sure it was unconventional but the truth was they were becoming a family.

“Ok guys, just be careful out there, if you have any problems at all you radio back and we’ll be with you in minutes ok.” Faith stated walking towards the two. Buffy had told her about the little pep talk and Faith herself wanted to show them that she supported and believed in them too.

“You make sure you keep in contact with us, anything at all you think you can’t handle you tell us.” Willow joined in, voicing her support.

“Ok guys, enough already, lets get these girls out there.” Kennedy offered trying to save the girls anymore of the Scooby’s concerns.

“I guess you’re right, come on guys, lets see you out, now you remember your route and everything yes?” Willow began as she escorted the two towards the large front doors.

“Yes Willow, we remember it, now quit worrying so much, we got enough weapons and stuff and we got the radio so we’ll be good.” Rhona stated rolling her eyes a little, she was nervous enough and the way everyone kept talking to them made her feel worse, she just needed to get out there and get this done.

Everyone gathered outside to wave off the two nervous girls, after a few hugs and other soppy stuff from the others Rhona and Vi made their way down the long driveway and out onto the street below, out into the night, out into what was to become their world of darkness and destruction, the world that they had sworn to make light once again. With heads held high they walked with confidence towards their first destination.

James had been trying to keep going all day, he had managed to escape the caves without any problems, he didn’t stop to wonder why it had been so easy or why he wasn’t being followed. He was growing weaker by the minute, he could hardly breathe now as his ribs were giving him toll, his leg felt as though he had a thousand nails being punched into it every time he place it to the ground, but he had to keep moving, he had to get to safety.

Struggling to hold himself upright he clung to anything, trash cans, fences, cars even walls, anything he could reach to help pull himself along. It was getting dark he had to hurry or he’d be a sitting target for anything that wanted a meal, he was still loosing blood from many of his wounds and he knew that vampires would smell him, he was a sitting duck, he had to get there.

Rounding another corner, he looked up and spotted the neon sign, it flashed on and off and even though the harsh colours invaded his senses it was like a beacon in the night to him. Gathering what little strength he had left he stumbled towards the sign in the desperate hope that the man who could help him would still be there.

Crashing through the doors he lurched forward, the floor finally coming to meet him in a bone-crushing thud.

“Oh shit, James.” The muffled voice penetrated his brain.

“Hhhppmm.” Was all he could muster before the darkness enveloped him once again, slipping back into that haven where he had no more pain.

The Scooby’s and the LA group had once again gathered in the library, the watchers were still researching with Willow helping out but the others were just sitting around chatting. Xander and Andrew were keeping their eye on the computer tracking device ensuring that the girls who were out on patrol didn’t seem to linger in one place for too long. Faith and Kennedy were showing each other some different fighting techniques, neither of them could sit still for very long, it was eerie how similar the two of them were.

Buffy was sat with Cordelia, Angel and Spike, they were telling her about what had happened at W&H since she and the gang had breezed through LA on their way to their new lives. She was laughing at some of the stories about Harmony and how she just couldn’t seem to get things right. Angel had explained that Fred had been working on some new product, some kind of impenetrable clothing, but it wasn’t like a bulletproof vest all chunky and uncomfortable, it was just like normal clothing. This had intrigued the blonde so they had agreed to keep her informed of the developments.

“How’s the girls' doing Xan?” Faith asked towelling herself down after the quick sparring session she had just had.

“They’re going pretty good from what we can tell, they’ve just finished the first half out and they’re now on the way back. They radioed in a while back, they came across a vamp in one of the ally’s about to have a midnight feast, but apparently it was smooth dusting.” He replied smiling at the brunette, this new tracking system was awesome, he and Andrew had been watching the two tiny blips on the screen for the last hour, each time the blips stopped moving they timed them, making a note of each time they stopped. They were trying to see if they would be able to spot trouble if they lost communication with the slayers.

“Excellent, see whad’I tell ya B, they’d be cool.” Faith sauntered back over to her girlfriend, making sure she had her full attention before running the towel down over her breasts.

“Huh!” Buffy replied staring over at her girlfriend, wondering how the hell she could be jealous of a fucking towel, but said towel had just had the luxury of travelling over the perfect skin of her lover taking with it the sweet droplets of moisture that had been gathering over it, her tongue nipped out almost snake like as she imagined tasting that which is truly Faith.

“I said..” Faith continued walking to her lover. “The girls are doing good, just like I told ya they would.” As she finished talking she dropped onto the sofa next to the blonde.

“Great.” Buffy replied wistfully, watching as another bead of perspiration made its way from her lover's collar bone down towards and then disappearing between the succulent breasts, once again her tongue darted out trying in desperation to taste its flavour.

Faith could see the need in her lover's eyes, and it made her want to satisfy that need. She was already worked up from the sparring and now looking into her lover's eyes she had no choice but to act on these feelings.

“Ah Xand, how long d’you think before they make it back?” She turned her attention back to him.

“I’d say ‘bout an hour maybe a little more if they come across anything.” He answered looking at Andrew for confirmation, on receiving the agreement he repeated. “Yeah about an hour.”

Faith turned her attention back to her lover. “I’m gonna go take a shower, you wanna scrub my back?” She whispered softly.

“Oh god yes.” Buffy replied jumping out of her seat and almost ran to the door, being closely pursued by her raven-haired mate.

“Soooo, did not need to hear that.” Spike sighed falling back against the sofa he had been sitting in.

Even though Faith had whispered her request his vampire hearing had picked it up. Sure he knew that Buffy was in love with Faith and he knew that they were good together but it still hurt to be reminded of it, but the worst thing was now he had screaming visuals of the two slayers all wet and soapy in the shower, hot bodies rubbing against each other. Jumping up he turned to Kennedy.

“You wanna go one more round?” He questioned, he had to stop this train of thought before he let the demon in him take over and run up to the slayers apartment and join them in the shower, sure he’d do it, but he liked the way his body was he didn’t think that dust was such a good fashion statement.

“Sure Spikey, gotta little urgh ya need to work off huh?” Kennedy smiled knowing exactly what had been going through the vampire's mind.

“You could say that pet.” Spike smirked.

Both crouched into a fighting stance and began circling each other waiting for the right moment to strike.

“James, come on James stay with me.” The voice called out to him gently, he was in complete darkness, the pain was gone but something, someone was calling him back, calling to him, he didn’t know why but he followed that voice. He winced a little as his consciousness began to claim him, the pain in his leg began to register once again, the shallow breaths that he had been taking still didn’t seem enough but his ribs threatened so much pain if he tried to breath harder. “James, come on that’s it, you’re gonna be ok, come on James stay with me.” The voice kept calling him. He could feel wetness on his face along with the gentle rubbing of some kind of cloth, he tried to open his eyes, but they seemed so heavy.

“Where…..” He tried but the words failed in his throat, he had spent god knows how long screaming at the pain that was being inflicted on him that his throat was raw.

“It’s ok James you’re safe, I’ll take care of you, rest now, just rest, you can tell me when you wake up.” The voice soothed him, on hearing the soothing words he drifted off once more hoping that when he woke he would not be in such pain, that what he had gone through was only a nightmare that he would wake up and laugh at the absurdity of it, even though deep down he knew how real it all was.

As Rhona and Vi entered the house through the large doors the smiling members of the Scooby gang and LA Group greeted them. Willow rushed over and hugged the both of them, congratulating them on safe return. She was soon followed by more hugs and handshakes from everyone else.

Once the small greeting had taken place they all returned to the library for the Slayer’s debriefing. Dawn was ready to take notes of all the vampire or demon occurrences while Giles and Wesley stood off to the side in case they were needed. Giles had decided that it was time that Dawn took more of an active role with the Slayers and thought that tonight would be as good a time as any. But due to the fact that the slayers were also new to this, he made sure he was close by in case any pertinent information came up, he didn’t want to miss anything, especially as this apocalypse was looming.

“Hey guys, we miss anything?” Asked a very flushed blonde as she entered the library followed closely by an equally flushed brunette.

“No Buff, we’re about to get started.” Dawn replied raising an eyebrow at her sister.

“What? What?” Buffy asked as if her and Faith had not run off earlier to partake in the pleasure known as a shower.

“Oh, nothing, just you still got shampoo in your hair, I woulda thought with how long you’d been gone, and with Faith helping yunno ya coulda washed the shampoo out.” Dawn smirked at her sister.

Buffy quickly raised her hand to her hair and felt the suds still lingering there, she blushed looking at Faith with a ‘help me’ look on her face, but she was saved by everyone just bursting into laughter, which soon enough her and Faith joined.

“Ok everyone I think we’ve embarrassed the Chosen two enough, lets get on with this.” Giles tried to gather some semblance to the meeting, although he had been chuckling along with everyone.

“Ok girls, from the top, and don’t leave anything out, it could all be important.” Dawn turned to the slayers.

Rhona and Vi told everyone about what they’d seen and how many vampires they had come across. The gang already knew about the one in the ally, but apparently not long after that they had stumbled across another two, they had explained a little about the fight and that by working together they had managed to dust both of them, even though one was twice the size of them.

Nothing else seemed to be out of place on their patrol so they were excused and Dawn began to enter the notes she had taken into the new database that Willow and Andrew had been working on.

“Right, I think that’s all we can do for today, I say a good nights rest is in order.” Wesley suggested to the group.

“Yeah it’s getting late, or gotten late.” Willow replied looking at her watch to see that it was already two am.

Everyone said their goodnights and retired to their respective rooms. Angel and Spike however went outside to get some un-needed fresh air. Being vampires they couldn’t take full advantage of the property during the day, so they walked the grounds at night. Even though they tormented each other daily, they seemed to have a bond, no nothing like the bond between the slayers, but a bond between vampires, the only vampires like them, the only souled vampires, whether that soul be forced or requested they were the same.

“So Peaches, what up with you and Cordy?” Spike asked taking his cigarettes out and lighting one.

“What?” Angel turned to look at the peroxide vamp.

“I said, what’s up with you and Cordy?” Spike replied with a sigh.

“No, I heard the question William, I meant what do you mean by it?”

“Well what I said, what’s up…..”

“Do not finish that.” Angel glowered.

“Ok, ok, keep your hair in place. I meant that when she woke up, you were all, yay and jumping around the place, but as times gone by you seem to be like, I don’t know, sorta avoiding each other.” Spike tried to explain his question between taking small drags from his burning cigarette.

“It’s complicated.” Angel bowed his head, he really didn’t want to be talking about his relationship with Cordelia, and he most certainly did not want to talk about it with Spike.

“Piffle.” Spike retorted.

Angel glared at Spike's comment, how the hell would he have any idea if it was complicated or not, he wasn’t there before, before Connor, before the higher being, before when it was just Angel, Doyle and Cordy.

“And what is that supposed to mean?” Angel asked exasperated.

“It means, PIFFLE.” Spike raised his voice. “Way I see it, you love girl, girl loves you, where the hell is the complication.” He stated as if it was the most obvious thing in the world.

“Spike would you leave this please. What I feel and about who I feel it has nothing to do with you, so I’d appreciate it if you stayed out of my business.” Angel spoke advancing on the blonde.

“Ok Peaches, ‘sup to you, but I know what I see, and it’s about time you opened your bloody bollocking eyes and noticed it too.” Spike replied walking away from his Grandsire.

Angel stood and watched as Spike became smaller in the distance. “Thing is Spike I already have opened my eyes.” He stated quietly, he had seen what was in front of him, he knew that Cordelia loved him, he also knew that he loved her.

Everyone thought of Buffy as being his one true love, but that wasn’t the case anymore, sure he loved the blonde slayer deeply, but it wasn’t that ‘truly, madly, deeply’ kind of love anymore. He couldn’t allow anything to happen between him and Cordelia, as much as he wanted to, he couldn’t, he wanted her to have the kind of life he could never give her, he wanted her to be able to experience everything with someone, and he knew that he wasn’t that person, so he had chosen to step back, allow her the space to find someone else, someone who could give her everything he wanted so badly to be able to give her himself.

Sitting down by the old oak he looked up at the house, resigning himself once again to the fact that he would never be truly happy, he couldn’t be, it was his curse.

James began to come round again, this time he felt more comfortable, sure he was still in a lot of pain, but at least he felt warm this time. He could sense that he was in a bed, he tried to figure out where he was, his mind was fuzzy with the details of what had happened. He remembered waking up in the cell he had been in for who knew how long and that he was untied, he remembered trying to walk across town, then he remembered the sign.

“I made it.” He sighed, wincing slightly at the pain in his throat.

“James, James, are you awake?” Came the concerned voice of his friend.

Trying to open his eyes to the harsh light of morning he replied hoarsely “Yeah, drink?” He needed a drink his throat was screaming at him, it felt as though it was made purely from sand paper.

“Here, drink it slowly.”

James brought a shaky hand to the glass and tried to take a drink, he felt a strong hand take hold of his steadying the glass.

“Thanks. I can’t believe I made it.” He stated again, still not believing he had gotten away so easily.

“You’re safe now, you want something to eat?”

“No.” James answered firmly he turned to look at his friend and sighed. “Kriss, I have to tell you about what’s happening, coming here I could have put you in danger, but I need your help, I can’t do this alone.” He almost pleaded.

“James, I got your back you know that, now come on and tell me everything, I’m sure it’s not all bad.”

James raised his eyebrow, then winced in pain. He started to explain to Kriss all that he knew, he explained about the book and the diamond and how the demon clan already had the diamond.

“So where’s the book?” Kriss enquired.

“See that’s the thing, I’m the only living person who knows, my Dad gave it to me when he was being hunted down, he told me I had to keep it safe whatever happened. I didn’t realise it was this important, see he left me loads of other books too, I just assumed they were all alike.” He bowed his head in shame at not listening to his father's words.

“Then where is the book, we have to get it, I know some people who could help.” Kriss stated hoping that the Slayers would help them, after all the book was the one that they had been searching for.

After telling James about the Slayers and having his agreement to ask for their help he left to make a few calls, Kriss turned to look at the young boy again, he had so many injuries he was hardly recognisable but somehow he had managed to survive the ordeal and make it out alive. However Kriss did not believe that it would have been that easy to escape, there had to be more to this, they had to be careful this smelt of a definite trap, and he for one did not want to be the one falling in head first.

Giles was woken by the shrill ringing of his cell phone, rummaging around he picked it up and notice the unlisted number, frowning he pressed the answer button.

“Hello?”

“Is this Rupert Giles?” Came the deep voice.

“Yes, yes this is he, to whom am I speaking?” Giles answered perplexed, he didn’t recognise the voice and only a very limited number of people had this number.

“Oh thank god, Rupert it’s Harskristas, I met your slayers the other night, I must say a little unconventional having vampires as allies.” Kriss chuckled a little.

“Kriss? Is that really you, we all thought you had been killed.” Giles stood and began to pace, he couldn’t believe that what his slayers had said was actually true.

“Oh come on Ripper, you know me better than that.”

“It’s Rupert or Giles now, and yes I suppose I do know you better.” Giles remarked thinking back to the times when he, Ethan and some others including Kriss had caused some major upset in the council when they were younger. “So how did you get this number, what’s wrong, have you found the book?” He went into full watcher mode.

“Wait up Giles, I’m getting there, your number was easy, I’ve still got a few reliable contacts from the old council, nothing is wrong, yet anyway, and yes I think I may have located the book you’re looking for, but it’s a delicate situation, can we meet, only I don’t like conducting business over the telephone.” Kriss completed Giles’ list of questions.

“Yes, yes of course we can meet, where and when?” Giles was already taking the cap off his pen ready to make a note of the details.

Gathering everyone together after breakfast Giles explained about his telephone conversation. Everyone was excited about the possibility of retrieving the book, but they were also a little apprehensive, well since when did anything ever go smoothly for them.

“So what time are we meeting Kriss?” Buffy asked the watcher who was currently cleaning his glasses.

“Well ‘we’ are not, I am, we can’t risk anyone finding out about this meeting, and the last thing we need is for the slayers to be seen talking to Kriss, he told me that his source had come to him for help but he was convinced there was a trap.” Giles replied hoping that Buffy would allow his plans.

“Oh, ok, if you’re sure you don’t need us, but you make sure you let us know if anything goes down ok.” Replied the blonde, she was a little upset that Giles didn’t want her to go to the meeting, but she trusted his judgement, if he believed there could be a trap then she wasn’t going to willingly put anyone in danger, not until they had more facts anyway.

“Every one else agreed?” Giles asked the rest of the group, to which he had a chorus of ‘yeah’s’ and ‘fine with me’s’. “Ok then, I have to meet Kriss at three this afternoon, he told me that he would explain more then.”

“Right, well the rest of us should get back to research, we still don’t know who wants to use this book or exactly what the book does, so I suggest we try and find out, even if we do locate it we may have to destroy it and we’ll need to know how.” Angel offered, he also wasn’t happy about the watcher going it alone, but he knew that Giles could take care of himself.

Readying themselves for another day at the books the gang moved around the library getting settled into their little work groups. The only two that were excused from research were Kennedy and Faith, and that was only because they drove the others crazy with their constant fidgeting and complaining, so they had the pleasure of training the SIT’s for the day.

After a fruitless morning of research Giles readied himself for his meeting, he had placed a small knife in the breast pocket of his jacket as well as a few stakes. Roaring down the drive he left in plenty of time to be able to survey their meeting place.

Arriving at the small café Giles pulled up and parked his car so he would be able to see it from the café, stepping out and ensuring he locked it he made his way over to the café, stepping in he quickly surveyed the other customers inside and also the small selection of free tables. Spotting the table he thought would be most suitable he went and sat down, he chose the seat where he could see most of the café but most importantly he could see both the front door where the patrons entered and the rear door that seemed to be in use as a fire escape.

Ordering himself a coffee he sat back and waited for his old friend to arrive.

Klee had been pacing his room for the last hour, the boy had escaped yesterday and as yet there had been no word. He was getting frustrated, he had requested three minions to go for the simple reason that at least one of them could come back and report what was happening, just as he was about to leave the room there was a knock at door.

“Come.” He called.

“Sir, the boy has stopped moving, we have his location and have men posted keeping watch for any movements.”

“Good we’re close I can feel it.” Klee remarked rubbing his hands together.

Kriss walked down the street, he kept looking around him for signs of anyone following him, he called into stores that he didn’t need to just to try and blend into the crowd. Taking one last look around he entered the café and quickly spotted Giles sitting at one of the tables.

“Giles, it’s good to see you again.” He greeted holding out his hand.

Giles looked up at the face that had not seemed to change from their younger days, yes there were signs of aging even though Kriss was a demon he could not hold the form of a human for long unless he took on the characteristics. Raising from his seat and taking hold of the offered hand he greeted his old friend.

“God Kriss it’s good to see you again.” Giles shook his hand rapidly squeezing tightly as if making sure that the person in front of him was real.

“Giles man, let go, you got a hell of a grip on ya.” Kriss chuckled, he could understand Giles’ reaction to him, he knew that the council on the whole thought he was dead, there were only a handful of council members that knew he was alive, and some of them had been killed when ‘The First’ had decided to try and break free.

“Ah, sorry, it’s just so good to see you, you have to tell me what has happened since we last saw each other, how did you survive?” Giles began rambling.

“We can discuss that again, I need your help now, so if we could get down to business I don’t know how much time we have.” Kriss stated nervously.

Giles had never seen Kriss nervous about anything, he was the one who would be confident throughout each battle with evil they had encountered, and to see this reaction was rather unsettling for Giles.

“Yes, yes of course Kriss, tell me, tell me everything you know.” Giles offered with a supporting smile.

They sat for at least another hour, Kriss relayed everything to Giles, he explained all that he knew of James and his father, Giles was shocked to learn that James’ father was Thomas Gordon, he had gone through the Watcher’s Academy with Thomas and was saddened to learn of his demise at the hands of ‘The First’, yet another of his friends slaughtered.

Kriss explained that Thomas had recovered the book around ten years ago and with some research he had learned how dangerous it would be if it fell into the wrong hands. Thomas had kept the book himself, as he did not trust the superiors of the Watcher’s Council, when the Bringers were reported to be closing in on him he had left the book along with many others with his son and fled. The Bringers did as he suspected and followed him leaving his son and his possessions alone he was killed no more than two days after.

James had managed to keep everything in order, mainly due to the fact the Thomas had set up emergency plans should anything ever happen to him. But one day he had been kidnapped by the demons who were looking for the book, at first he didn’t know what they were talking about, but over the time they had basically told him what was in it. He had recognised the symbol that emblazoned the front of the book as the same symbol that was set in the back of the robes that the demons wore, he had kept its location from them and managed to escape, but he didn’t have the strength to try and retrieve the book himself so he had gone to Kriss for help and now Kriss was here asking for Giles’ help along with the Slayers.

“I have to say that’s a lot to take in, but I can say here and now that yes we will help you and James, but we will need more information, here’s the address of the house, get James there as soon as possible, he’ll be safe there and for the time being close up the club, you’ll have to be with us on this one and James would probably be grateful for a friendly face, especially with what he’s been through.” Giles quickly handed Kriss a piece of paper with the address of the Slayers home.

“Thank you Giles, I’ll bring him as soon as I can, I have to sort a few things out first.” Kriss replied with a warm smile.

“Of course, but if there are any problems, any, you contact me immediately, I’ll see you soon Kriss, and I don’t think that I have to say ‘stay safe’ do I?” Giles smiled.

“No that you don’t Giles, that you don’t.”

Giles stood and saying farewell left the café once again checking around him for any signs of suspicious activities. Getting into his car he started the engine and began the short journey home.

The house was a hive of activity by the time Giles returned, the SIT’s were located all around, some were reading up on demons others were listening to Dawn as she explained about some of the demons that her sister had fought.

The LA group had taken up residence at the oak table in the library, along with Anya and Andrew. Xander had been showing Buffy and Faith the basement that was now finished, he had installed a large weapons cage containing a wide array of weapons including some from the army, when Faith had asked what the hell were they for he had simply replied, ya never know who’s gonna ‘judge’ you, to which Buffy rolled her eyes and Faith became even more confused.

He had also installed some gym equipment, some weight machines as well the usual treadmills and bikes, there was a large area cordoned off for sparring with a crash mat covering almost the entire area but leaving just enough room for a few benches so that people could observe.

“Wow Xand, this is amazing, I’ve been wondering what the hell you been doing.” Faith congratulated him on a job well done.

“Why thank you Faith, I think.” He joked.

“Yeah Xander this is great, I mean we can really get the girls into training now, and we don’t have to worry about what time of day and the weather and stuff, I never realised how big it was down here.” Buffy offered wide eyed at the large expanse now designed perfectly to suit their needs, she was stunned when she noticed the targets at one end of the room that could be used for crossbow training and stake throwing, and her mind was being filled with all the possibilities. She was taken out of her reverie when she heard Willow calling from the library to say that Giles had arrived.

Making their way back up the stairs they made their way to the meeting that was due to take place the moment they arrived.

CHAPTER 32

Dedication: You've inspired me, you'll see what I mean.

Klee exited his lair and made his way towards the great hall, he was expecting his Masters soon. The first ritual was being performed tonight and he had to make sure that everything was in its place.

He was concerned how his Masters would react to the fact that he had let their prisoner escape, but he was sure that when he explained his plans to them they would understand, after all he knew exactly where he was so there was no fear of losing him and the fact that this was the only way left to get the book.

Entering the great hall he surveyed everything, the altar was already covered with the many artefacts that would be needed, the area was ablaze with candles casting an eerie glow around everything.

The walls had been meticulously decorated with varying mystical signs, each one with its own reference to the ritual to be performed and the coming rituals. Looking beyond the altar Klee smiled at the sign decorating the end of the hall, it was the same one they sported on their robes, and the same sign that was etched into the leather bound book that he was desperate to find.

Satisfied that everything was ready and in order he left to prepare for the arrival of his Masters and the impending ritual.

“The look on his face, I’d say that it ain’t good news.” Faith whispered.

“Yep, I’d have to agree, but since when did we ever get good news?” Buffy turned her head slightly to look at her lover.

“Hey, come on babe, we’ll find out what’s going on, we’ll kick some butt, and before you know it we’ll be doing the victory dance again.” Faith finished with a lopsided grin, trying to get her girlfriend to relax a little. She knew the threat that lay over their heads was a big one, but Buffy was feeling so tense at the moment that Faith was beginning to get a bad feeling.

“I know, it's just, I’m getting a little old for all of this worry.” Buffy smiled a little.

“I get what ya mean, but you got me now remember and all those girls out there, you’re not alone anymore, I just wish you could see that.”

“I do see it baby, and I’m so happy that I have you with me to take some of this, it's just, well it’s just a little hard to get used to.” She replied caressing her lover's face.

“Well ya better get used to it, cos I promised I ain't going anywhere, and for once in my life I mean it with everything I am.”

Buffy’s smile widened at her lover, she knew Faith had changed so much from when they first met, she couldn’t believe sometimes that the woman holding her was once her enemy, she liked this side of Faith and part of her wished that she had seen this before, it would have saved them a lot of heartache.

“Ok everyone, I suppose I had better tell you what I know.” Giles spoke interrupting Buffy’s thoughts.

Turning her attention back to her watcher she snuggled a little deeper into the brunette's hold.

“Alrighty watcher man, lets have it.” The blonde smirked at Giles’ expression of her calling him ‘watcher man’.

“I see you’ve been spending a little too much time with Faith.” Giles chuckled, he definitely believed that Faith was having a good effect on his slayer.

She was considerably less uptight about everything lately, he liked it, he could see that Buffy was beginning to fully accept who she was, and now was able to combine both parts of her, he had been noticing that she separated the slayer from Buffy less and less, it was as if she was finally allowing herself to become whole, and believed that was mostly due to the brunette currently nuzzled at the blonde's neck.

“Right back to it then, Giles what did Kriss have to say for himself.” Wesley offered trying to get this meeting underway.

“Yes of course.” Giles took off his glasses and cleaned them, gathering his thoughts together he began.

He explained all that Kriss had told him, everything about James and the book and about James’ father being a watcher, and one of which they could trust. He explained what he now knew of the book and that he had instructed Kriss to bring James to them as soon as possible, for safe keeping.

“So when are we expecting them?” Willow asked.

“I’m not sure, Kriss said he had some things to take care of first, but I would expect within the next day, he is very worried about James.” Giles offered.

“Ok I’ll go get a couple of rooms ready for them.” She replied standing, holding her hand out for her girlfriend. Kennedy looked up and took the offered hand following her lover out of the library.

“I suppose this means no research for the rest of us?” Anya asked hopefully.

“Well there’s nothing more we can do tonight, so I guess not. Perhaps we could all do with an early night, get some rest, I think this is going to be our last chance for a while.” Giles concurred.

As soon as Kriss had left the small café he made his way back across town, he kept his eyes and ears open to ensure that he was not being followed. Entering his club he called the bar tender to the office.

“Harvey, I have to leave town for a while, I can’t explain anything, but I’m leaving the club for you to run, you know what you have to do?” Looking expectantly at his friend.

“Sure Kriss, I’ll keep everything under control, I aint gonna ask any questions, but I’ll just say be careful ok.” Harvey replied, he had known Kriss for many years now, he knew of his involvement with demon hunting and had been involved in some of the battles that had been fought. He knew not to ask questions, the less he knew the less he could tell anyone.

“Thanks Harvey, I’ll keep in touch.” Kriss shook Harvey’s hand and left the club, making his way back to the apartment.

Taking an indirect route he soon reached his apartment, checking around once again he entered.

“James, James, it's me, are you awake?” He called as he entered.

“Yeah Kriss, I’m in here.”

“Hi, I spoke to Giles, he said they’ll help.” Kriss said entering the bedroom.

“We can trust him?” James asked, he didn’t know who this Giles was, sure he knew of the Slayer but not everything in great detail, his father had been sketchy on a few things, and had to run before he could tell James anymore.

“Yes James, we can trust him, he went through the academy with your father.” Kriss assured him. “He has asked me to take you to him, they have a large home that they are apparently using as a new base for the Slayers.” Kriss began to explain the plan. “The rumours that we have been hearing about the Slayers being activated, is true. There was this big fight with The First Evil, they managed to beat him down, and in the meantime activate every living Slayer.”

“Wow.” James exclaimed.

“So yes we can trust them, and I know we’ll be safe with them. We have to move quickly, we have to get to them before anyone finds you. I’m not convinced that you weren’t followed, it was way too easy for you to escape.”

“Yes I know, I’ve been on edge ever since you left, I feel like someone is watching me all the time.” James spoke worriedly.

“It’ll be ok James, but we have to get to the Slayers.” Kriss replied exiting the room to start packing everything that he thought he would need for a while.

Klee checked the mirror one last time, satisfied with his appearance and once again made his way to the great hall.

Entering through the large doors he saw others already gathering to pay witness to the forthcoming ritual. There was a group of around twenty demons stood in a circle around one of the intricate mystical signs, they stood with their hoods covering their bowed heads.

Klee listened and could here the soft chant coming from the group, he smiled knowing that the ritual was soon to begin, they were ready, walking across the great hall Klee took his place at the left side of the alter and waited for his Masters.

Morgath and Morette entered the great hall only a few minutes after Klee, they were both impressed that their minions had managed to obey all of the specifics of the ritual, each individual sign had been meticulously hand painted and each looked perfect.

Walking across the great hall Morgath produced the Viascon diamond. He made his way to the alter and observed the intricately woven basket, it was an amazing piece, made from solid gold, placing the diamond in the centre of the basket he took his place on the right side of the alter.

Morette witnessed her partner placing the diamond in the basket and called for everyone’s attention. It was time, the ritual was to start, she was to take on the essence of the diamond.

Everyone gathered in orderly lines readying themselves for their Mistress to begin the ritual. They watched as she produced a large ornate dagger from her cloak, listening intently as she began to recite.

Morette place the blessed dagger on the alter and reached for the diamond, lifting it up she showed its beauty to the waiting minions, reciting once again this time louder than before she kept hold of the diamond.

The minions who were honoured to be part of this ritual watched in rapture as their Mistress held the diamond aloft. The many candles illuminating it, swirls of light began to flow around the great hall. They bowed their head as they saw the light begin to brighten, this time it was from the tiny grain held within the diamond within seconds the light began to fade once again and they watched as it was placed into the golden basket once again.

Morette picked up the dagger bringing it to the opposite hand drew it across her palm, she hissed quietly at the pain but continued. Holding her hand in a fist she moved it until it was placed over the diamond, speaking the practised words she watched as the blood ran from her wound and onto the diamond.

There was an air of silence around the great hall as each demon witnessed the spilling of blood, once again everything called for the essence of life.

Morette watched as the blood seeped over the diamond, she was amazed at how each drop had its place, as soon as the flow would hit the diamond it moved to a specific place and stayed there, none of the blood landed on the golden basket.

There were at least ten placed on the diamond now decorated with her blood, then everything seemed to stop. The blood that had been running from her palm had stopped. Looking intently at the diamond she watched as the ten spots of blood moved of their own volition towards the top, once there a soft glow came from the grain at its centre.

Gasping Morette watched as the blood seemed to melt into the diamond and move towards the grain, the grain began to glow brighter as the blood neared it. As soon as the blood touched the grain it was sent straight back up out of the top of the diamond and up into the wound on Morette’s hand.

Klee and Morgath moved quickly as they saw Morette begin to fall, catching her they laid her down gently.

“Moretty my love, are you ok? Did it work?” Morgath asked hastily hoping that his partner was safe. Yes he wanted the same as Morette, he wanted to be ruler, but not if that meant without her.

“Urrghh!” Morette moaned as her conscious made its appearance once again.

Opening her eyes slowly she was greeted by the concerned look in her lover's eyes, she smiled slightly at the sight.

“I’m ok, just a little tired, I think it worked but that ritual took a lot out of me, I need to rest.”

“Yes of course, I’ll take care of you.” Morgath answered relieved that she was going to be ok. Lifting her from the stone floor he cradled her in his arms and made his way out of the main hall towards their accommodation.

Willow and Kennedy had been busy preparing two of the rooms for James and Kriss. They had taken two rooms on the second floor, at least that way they would be closer to the Scoobies if anything were to happen.

“This place is getting kinda crowded.” Kennedy stated after they had finished making the second bed.

“Yeah, I mean what with the arrival of the girls that Robin found and LA group and now a couple of strays, we should be a hotel.” Willow chuckled.

“Well I ain’t doing room service.” Kennedy pouted.

“Aw why not, I could just see you in a short skirt pushing a trolley.” Willow smirked.

“Oh you could, could you?” The brunette replied walking seductively towards her lover.

“Hmmm, and I’d give you an unforgettable tip.” Willow reached out and grabbed Kennedy by her pants and pulled her into a forceful kiss.

Shocked at first Kennedy didn’t respond, but as soon as her senses caught up with her she kissed back with just as much force, it constantly surprised her that her lover could endure her slayer strength. Wrapping her arms around Willow's back she drew her in even closer and began to trail kisses along her jaw to her ear.

“Baby, I think we better go upstairs.” She whispered huskily.

Willow shuddered at the passion in her lover's voice, she could feel the heated breath coming in short pants from her young lover.

“I think you’re right, don’t wanna spoil our good work now do we?” Willow replied trying to move toward the door.

Exiting the room they made their way to the stairs, barely able to keep their hands to themselves. Reaching the stairs Kennedy turned quickly and picked Willow up and began to ascend them. Willow placed her arms around the young brunette's shoulders and nuzzled her face into the crook of Kennedy’s neck, inhaling deeply the scent that drove her wild she began to nibble at any available skin she could reach.

“Keep that up, … we ain’t gonna make it to our room.” Kennedy panted gripping hold of her girlfriend even tighter.

“Oh and why’s that?” Willow asked shyly.

“I, ah, I think you know why.” The brunette stumbled a little at the feeling of the soft lips against her skin.

“Then I’d walk quicker if I were you, cos I aint stopping.” Willow whispered huskily then began to run her tongue around the shell of her lover's ear.

Taking a much needed deep breath and ensuring she had a good grip on her lover Kennedy began to run the rest of the way to their apartment, all the while trying to ignore the sensations running through her body that were being created by her lover's mouth.

Reaching the apartment door Willow reached out with one hand and swing open the door. Kennedy walked in quickly and kicked the door closed, turning she dropped the red head and pushed her forcefully against the closed door.

“Hmmm feisty, have I mentioned I love it when you’re feisty.” Willow husked.

“Once or twice.” Kennedy wiggled her eyebrows.

Taking the red head’s hands in hers she lifted them until they were placed above their heads, and began to kiss and suck on her exposed neck. Willow gasped as her lover's teeth grazed over the sensitive skin and threw her head back allowing greater access.

The brunette pushed her strong body against her lover practically pinning her to the door, she forced her thigh between her lover's and began to rock into her.

“Oh god, Ken.” Willow panted.

Just as Kennedy stepped back a little to begin removing Willow's clothes she noticed her lover's eyes were glowing almost emerald. Staring in wonder she watched as her lover seemed to lose focus for a moment and then began to tumble forward.

“Will? Willow, what’s going on?” She asked concerned gently lowering her lover to the ground. The red head had seemed to just space out on her and it scared her a little.

“Whoa, head rush.” Willow giggled.

“Baby?” Kennedy asked brushing some loose hair from her lover's face.

“We need to get everyone back to the library, this ain’t good.” The witch began to rise, she stumbled a little but was grateful when she felt the strong arms of her lover help her to stand.

“What happened Will?” The brunette asked again.

“Lets just say, we have less time than we thought.”

Cordelia had been talking to Faith and Buffy when she felt the impending vision, clutching her head she lurched forward. Faith moved quickly and caught her friend just before she introduced her nose to the hard floor.

“Cordy?” Buffy spoke walking closer to them.

“Damn visions, ya think they could make em less goddamn painful.” The ex cheerleader responded with disdain.

“What you see Cor?” Faith asked trying to help Cordelia back to her feet.

Ruffling in her seats for her painkillers Cordelia looked at Faith then Buffy.

”I think we better call a meeting.” She looked worriedly at the two.

“Ok I’ll get the others.” Buffy left the two brunettes and began to rally everyone.

On her way down the hall to get Xander and Anya she met Kennedy coming out of her apartment.

“Hey Ken we need to get everyone to the library.”

“Hey Buffy we need to get everyone to the library.”

They both blurted out as soon as they saw each other.

“Huh? How do you know?” Buffy asked surprised.

“Willow, I’m not sure but something happened, she told me to get everyone together.” She looked a little worried.

“Oh is she ok?” Buffy asked concerned for her best friend.

“Yeah she’s good. Why are you calling everyone to the library?” The brunette asked.

“Cordy had a vision.”

“Oh.” Kennedy replied, she wasn’t quite sure how Cordelia had visions or what they were like, but she was willing to accept anything these days, she had seen so much since she had met everyone back in Sunnydale.

“Right, then I suppose we better get everyone.” Buffy offered and resumed her trip down the hall towards Xander’s apartment.

Kriss helped James into the back of his car and covered him with a blanket so that he would not be seen. He packed everything he could into the trunk and sat behind the wheel.

“You ready?” He spoke to the seemingly empty car.

“Yeah, lets get this over with.” Came the muffled reply.

Starting the engine and pushing the remote button he waited for the garage doors to open allowing him enough room to drive through. They had one stop to make on their way and then it was on to Slayer Central.

Kriss had driven all around town, not going in any particular direction, he was convinced that they were being followed but whenever he looked he could not see anything.

Reaching his first destination he honked the horn and waited, constantly surveying his surroundings he tapped his fingers impatiently on the steering wheel.

“Come on, come on.” He whispered looking toward the high rise building.

Checking the mirrors once again he noticed a brunette leave the building and make her way over to the car.

“So where we going this time?” She asked entering the car with a dramatic sigh.

"Somewhere safe.” Was his only answer.

Moving away from the curb Kriss began to weave his way once again through the streets all the while checking for anything that seemed out of the ordinary.

About an hour later they arrived at the large ornate gates of Slayer central, using the intercom they gained access almost immediately.

Kriss started to drive up to the house when the car was stopped by some sort of invisible field. Looking around anxiously he was surprised to see Giles walking toward him followed by a number of other people.

“Hello Kriss, I am sorry for this little interruption but it seems as though you are carrying a stow away.”

“Huh?” Kriss asked confused.

“What he means is that we were ready for you and a human and it seems as though you got another demon in tow.” Faith offered as way of explanation to his car coming to a strange stop.

“Oh that would be Ami here.” He pointed over at the passenger side of the car at the young brunette.

“Hi.” She waved at the many pairs of eyes staring down at her.

“Hi. So who’s she?” Faith asked abruptly not liking that this guy had brought another demon.

“She’s my daughter.” Kriss replied.

“Oh, well, I guess that’s ok then.” She stumbled a little embarrassed at her earlier arrogance.

“Willow, you can release them.” Giles turned to the red head who chanted a few words in a language none of them could recognise and released the barrier.

“Ok Kriss, take the car into the garage and Xander will show you where to go, we’ll meet you inside, I’m afraid we have some bad news.” Giles spoke to his friend.

“When is it ever good news?” Kriss mumbled.

Everyone made their way back into the house and automatically went to the library. Anya and Andrew went to the kitchen to make some well needed coffee for everyone. It was going to be a long night.

The Scoobies and the LA crew were all sat quietly in the library waiting for the arrival of their guests.

Xander entered followed by Kriss who was supporting the still injured James, Faith stood quickly and went to James’ other side offering her support. James smiled at her and allowed her to wrap his arm around her shoulder manoeuvring him to the nearest chair.

Once James was seated Kriss turned to everyone in the room.

“Well, some of you already know me, but for those who don’t, I’m Harskristas, or more easily Kriss.” He bowed his head slightly. “This is James, and this is Ami my daughter.” He finished pointing at each of them as he introduced them.

“Hey Kriss, well you know me but I’m Buffy, this is Faith, Dawn, Willow, Kennedy, Angel, Cordelia, Wesley, and Spike, Xander you already know and Andrew and Anya are making some coffee, they’ll be back soon. And this is Giles.” As she spoke each persons name they offered a small hey and wave indicating which was which.

Spike was looking intently at Ami, she was quite small in stature and had quite piercing brown eyes, there was something about her, something he couldn’t quite place but he liked it what ever it was.

James had tried to focus on the many names and faced as they were called, he doubted that he would remember any of them but he was grateful that they all looked friendly.

Ami had been in this situation with her father before, every now and again he would get involved in something that was a little too big to handle by himself and they would have to run and go into hiding.

She glanced around the room at the many faces, they looked like a bunch of misfits and her senses were telling her that there was a powerful witch in the form of the little red head named Willow and that Spike and Angel were vampires, but some part of her was telling her that they had souls. She noticed that Spike was staring at her and wondered for a moment if she had grown a second head. Shaking off the feeling she continued to look around, she gasped as she caught sight of Dawn.

Buffy turned hearing the gasp from Ami and wondered what was wrong.

“Hey, you ok?”

“Yeah, um, I hope you don’t mind me asking but what are you?” Ami turned her question to Dawn.

“I’m ah, you can see me?” Dawn asked confused.

“Yeah, you’re all like shimmying and stuff.” Ami replied walking closer to the teen.

“Dawn’s the key, well one of them anyway.” Kriss answered his daughter.

“You can see me too?” Dawn asked a little concerned.

“Yes I can see you, our kind can see through many mystical barriers, I can see you as human but I can also see the essence of power within you, and that is what Ami can see.” Kriss tried to explain.

“Oh.” Dawn stated a little shocked that someone sane could see her, so far it had only been the patients of the Pshyc ward that had been able to see her true form.

It concerned her a little, she knew she was the Key, this form of energy but she tried where possible to ignore it, forget about it put it on hold. But every time she managed to push it away just a little it came back. And now this diamond that held the grain, another key, were they of the same origin, what power did they hold? Were they only made for chaos and destruction?

Buffy could see the deflated look in her sister's eyes, she knew what Dawn was thinking the same thing started going through her mind as soon as Ami had spoken. Once again they were reminded that Dawn was first and foremost the Key, no matter how much Buffy wanted her to be normal, she never really would be.

Walking over and taking Dawn’s hand in her own she squeezed gently reassuring the young brunette that everything would be ok. Dawn smiled in gentle thanks for her sister's immediate support.

“Right then shall we get things underway?” Giles asked the group.

“Yeah, come on everyone, lets get this thing started.” Cordelia announced motioning to everyone to take a seat.

Once Morgath had settled Morette in her room, he left to find Klee. They had been told of James’ escape and neither of them were happy about it. Navigating his way through the underground tunnels he arrived at Klee’s room, and entered not bothering to knock.

“Klee tell me exactly what you think you are doing.” He demanded.

Rising to his feet and bowing his head quickly at his master, he cringed at the tone in which he was being berated.

“Sir, I understand that you and M’lady are concerned, but really this is the only way.”

“Only way? Only way? Klee are you mad, we had him here and you let him go, how are we going to get the book now?” Morgath asked with exasperation, he and Morette had searched for almost three hundred years for the diamond and the book.

They had tracked down both in that time, but they had been eluded every time. They had managed to track the diamond over the last ten years, the book however had been more difficult. It had been lost to them for almost seventy years, that is until word had spread of its discovery. Spending the last five years moving from continent to continent they finally traced it to the Americas, almost having it in their grasp its keeper had been chased out of town. Luckily they had found out some personal information about its keeper and using that knowledge they had caught James in the hope that they would get the books location. So you can imagine how enraged he and his partner had felt learning that their trusted servant had let him go.

“Sir, please let me explain.” Klee pleaded, noting the silence he continued. “Sir, we were getting nowhere with the interrogating, the boy had almost died twice from the beatings that were bestowed on him. There was really no other way, we have to get him to lead us to the book, he would die before he gave us the information.” Klee stopped waiting for his master’s reaction.

“Go on.”

“We followed him, I have men positioned and will track his every movement. He is currently at an apartment building downtown. I have my men reporting back with any new information, they have been instructed to watch and follow only. I do not want them ruining things by going in too soon.” Sitting back down he took a well needed breath. “So you see Sir, letting the boy go is the best way, we do not have time to wait for him to die of his injuries because trust me, he had way more balls than we ever gave him credit for.”

“I see.” Morgath answered furrowing his brow. “I want you to report directly to me on any new information, I do not want to worry Morette any more than is necessary.” He turned to exit the room. “Oh, and Klee, if this ‘plan’ of yours should fail, I will personally see to it that you suffer much more pain than that boy ever had.”

Watching as his master left the room Klee let out a long sigh, he had known that his master’s would not be happy about the situation but there was no other way, he just hoped that everything would be ok, he did not want to think about what would happen to him if all this failed.

Giles had explained everything that they had found out, he had let Cordelia explain her vision that had contained some detail of the ritual that had taken place. Willow had confirmed the feeling that had washed over her was as if there had been a major shift of power across the earth.

The small amount of information that they had managed to get only told them that there would be three rituals in all, the last one was to be held in ten days time. They had no idea who was attempting to bring about the apocalypse and they had absolutely no clues as to where the demons were.

Waiting for everyone to finish explaining all that they knew, James sat quietly absorbing the information and taking in the people in the room. He had been nervous of trusting these people at first, even though his father was a watcher and he knew of the Slayer, he did not know everything.

Quentin Travers had done enough in the past to ensure that James could not trust just any council member. His father had introduced him to a smattering of watchers that could be trusted, and also some demons, that is how he knew Kriss. It was a few years ago when the book was recovered that James and Kriss had been introduced.

Looking around the room again he noticed that all eyes were on him, he knew this was his part, he had to remember all that he knew and all that he had gathered while being held prisoner.

“Well I suppose I had better start from the beginning.” He looked over at Kriss who gave him a reassuring nod. “A few years ago, Dad, was given information about the Book of Zirex. He had bartered well with the demon who had it and had kept it safe ever since. When the Council Head Quarters had been destroyed and he learned of The First’s plan. He knew that the Bringers would soon be after him, he left many of his possessions with me and fled.” Pushing down the anguish he still felt over his fathers brutal murder he continued. “He was murdered not long after. Anyway I didn’t know exactly what it was that my father had left me, sure there sre some of the usual demon reference books and some watcher’s diaries, I didn’t realise that the Book of Zirex was of such great importance. I was still young when the trade had taken place and Dad was still teaching me about the Slayers and demons and magic and all other things supernatural when he had to flee for his life, a lot of good that did him.” James bowed his head a little wishing that he had been able to help his father more, perhaps he would still be alive.

“James you wouldn’t have been able to protect him, you would have been killed right along with him. There wouldn’t have been anything you could have done.” Dawn offered a little encouragement at the battered and bruised young man in front of her.

“Thanks, but I just felt so helpless.” James looked over at Dawn and smiled a little in appreciation of her support.

“Well tell us what you know of the demons, you obviously know where the book is, but what about demons, who are they? Where are they?” Dawn encouraged James to continue, he may not have been able to save his father’s life, but that didn’t mean he was completely useless.

“Well I’m not sure exactly where they are, you see they knocked me out when they first took me prisoner, I just woke up tied in a cell. And to be honest when I managed to get out of there I was in so much pain I wasn’t really paying attention to my surroundings. Sorry.” He answered dejectedly.

“Not to worry, I’m sure we’ll be able to locate them, now that the grain has been activated I may be able to do a location spell on it. It may not work out exactly cos well the energy that’s floating around at the moment is all like I don’t know how to explain, but like mixed up.” Willow began to babble again.

“What about the book?” Faith asked. “I mean surely there must be some information in that about everything, there can’t just be the script for the ritual.”

“You have a point Faith, I was hoping that we could leave the book in its present location as there would be a risk in moving it, but we may not have a choice in the matter any more.” Wesley spoke to the once rogue Slayer, he had seen a great change in Faith, sure he had not exactly gone to visit her or anything, but her determination in ensuring that Angel got his soul back had been proof to him that the raven haired beauty was definitely on the road of redemption.

“So what does everyone else think? Should we take a risk and get the book?” Faith asked the rest of the group.

It was silent for a few minutes while they all processed the information they had been given. Each of them trying to come up with a better plan, but none of them could, they had exhausted nearly all of their available texts and nothing more had come to light. Even the books from Wolf, Ram and Hart had not managed to add anything.

“Well I agree with Faith, there has to be more in that book, we have to get it.” Buffy agreed leaning into the brunette a little more, she was proud of the way that Faith had changed, she was beginning to open up and she was becoming more involved in the meetings.

“Yep, I have to say I’m drawing a blank on anything else.” Spike concurred.

Soon enough everyone in the room was in agreement that they had to retrieve the book, they were in a catch twenty two situation, they could leave the book where it was and hope that the demons wouldn’t find it in time or they could try to retrieve it in order to get more information, there was a risk however that by uncovering the whereabouts of the book that the demons could still get a hold of it. The only hope they had was that there would be information about how to stop the ritual if it was ever started.

After deciding that they would discuss a plan on how to retrieve the book in the morning a good nights rest was in order. Realising they had only prepared two rooms Willow and Kennedy offered to prepare another room for Ami, but Kriss had expressed a wish to stay with James in case he needed anything during the night, he was still severely injured and Kriss felt an amount of responsibility for the young boy.

Buffy and Faith helped James up to the second floor and into the room that had been prepared, setting him down on the bed they wished both him and Kriss a goodnight and continued on their way to Buffy’s apartment.

Dawn had to show Ami where she would be sleeping for the duration of her stay. She offered to help her unpack and settle in, she knew how awkward things could get when you were new to a place.

“So how long have you been human?” Ami blurted out, her curiosity over Dawn had been growing all night, she had been taking glances in her direction and was awed by the beauty that the energy held.

“Ah, well all my life really, I don’t remember a time before I wasn’t Dawn.” Dawn answered as best she could, she hated being reminded of what she really was, even though she didn’t quite ‘know’ herself.

“Sorry I don’t mean to pry, it’s just I’ve never seen anything like you.” Ami apologised realising that this subject obviously upset Dawn. “I just wondered how long yunno in real time that you’ve existed as a human.”

“It’s ok, it’s just hard yunno, the monks made me a little over two years ago, but I have all these memories, like I remember falling off my bike when I was five and Buffy running to help me. But in reality it didn’t happen.”

“Wow, like what about everyone else? Do they have the same memories?” Ami asked her curiosity beginning to peak.

“Well as far as I know they do. I mean me and Buffy sat down when she was resurrected, we talked for hours about some of the stuff that supposedly happened when we were kids, everything from birthday surprises to when Mom and Dad were getting their divorce.”

“Wow, that’s some major mojo they got going there.” Ami answered in awe.

“You could say that. The thing that gets me more though is that I don’t know what power this energy holds. Sure a Hell God wanted to use me as some sorta key, but what if this energy can do more, I mean what if all it was created for was death and destruction.” Dawn voiced her concerns she didn’t know why she was confessing these feelings to a complete stranger when she couldn’t even talk to her own sister about it.

“I don’t think you have to worry, from what I know of mystical energy it’s neutral, it only becomes good or bad depending on how it’s used.” Ami offered a little comfort, she could understand the teens concern.

She being a demon knew of the internal battles that would be fought in thinking one day you could turn to the dark side and destroy everything and everyone that you cared for in little more than a blink of the eye. But her father had made her understand that no matter who or what you were by birth, it was who you became during life that determined whether you would stand in the light or dark.

“Really, you mean that even though this energy stuff is in me, it can’t really do anything on its own.” Dawn asked intrigued.

“Well I’m not completely sure, but yeah I think so, I mean the energy is not only in you it is you. I see you as human but I can also see the energy glowing around you, it’s as if the energy is trying to project your image.” Ami tried to explain the way that she saw Dawn.

“Oh like a hologram?” Dawn enquired.

“I suppose for a better word yeah like a hologram.” Ami agreed. “And well if the energy was evil do you really think it would project you in such a good way.”

Dawn blushed a little at Ami’s comment, she hadn’t thought of it that way before. It kinda made sense to her in a way though, lifting her gaze back to the woman in front of her she smiled in thanks.

Once all of Ami’s things had been put away, the two chatted for a while Dawn had explained the battle with The First, and how they had all decided to continue with the Slayers and the Watchers. She had told Ami about Wood and his ever growing ‘Slayer Hunters’ as they were becoming known.

Ami was impressed, she would never of thought of Buffy as being so strong even if she was a Slayer, she was just so ‘small’. Dawn had laughed at that comment and warned Ami not to mention Buffy’s vertical disability. Ami had looked rather quizzical at Dawn's analogy but Dawn clarified the fact that Buffy hated being called short.

It was getting pretty late so Dawn had decided it was time for her to leave, she thanked Ami for talking about her being the key and for her thoughts on it.

Ami had also thanked Dawn for making her feel welcome, the two parted company saying that they would get together after the meeting and talk some more. Dawn really liked Ami, they had only just met but she felt a bond of some sort as soon as they started talking.

CHAPTER 33

Willow and Kennedy had made their way back to their apartment in relative silence, when they entered Kennedy had suggested a nice relaxing bath and had run off to prepare it before Willow could object.

“Will, it’s ready.” She called from the bathroom.

As Willow entered her senses were invaded by the sweet smell of scented candles that were placed all around the bathroom, closing her eyes and inhaling deeply she let the aroma spread over her.

Kennedy watched as her lover's face took on an ethereal beauty as she relaxed in the intoxicating atmosphere. Walking toward her she softly placed her arms around the slender body and pulled her into a warm embrace. She smiled as she felt Willows arms encircle her and then giggled a little as she felt hands gently caressing her butt.

“Hey baby.”

“Hey.” Kennedy replied leaning back a little to look in her girlfriend’s eyes.

Smiling softly she brought her arms up and over her lover's shoulders, she traced her fingers gently over the slightly exposed collarbone. She let her fingers follow the ‘V’ of Willow's top until she reached the top button, looking into the expressive eyes in front of her she saw no objection so began to undo each button. When she reached the last one she travelled upwards again this time she hooked her fingers under the fabric and began to peal it away, slowly but surely she started to expose the pale skin of her lover.

Once she reached the shoulders she began to move it lower until it finally dropped to the floor. Willow still in the semi embrace lifted her hand and tucked a piece of stray hair behind her girlfriend's ear, moving her hand slightly she cupped the face in front of her.

Kennedy relaxed into the soft touch and leaned in and planted a delicate kiss on her lover's mouth. Her hands began to move again around her lover's back and in one swift movement had released the clasp and removed her lover’s bra.

Once again her hands were not still for long, this time to they moved down to the waistband of the black pants that adorned her lover's hips. Reaching for the clasp she undid it with ease, she began to slide her fingers downwards taking the zipper with her.

Willow gasped feeling the gentle caress of her lover's hands on her body, she closed her eyes as she felt soft lips against her skin and shivered slightly at the feel of a talented tongue tasting her.

Kennedy began to kiss lower over pert breasts stopping to lavish some much needed attention on the already hard nipples. Travelling southwards again she dropped to her knees, looking up she saw the desire she was creating, Willow was stood with her eyes half closed looking down at her, her mouth slightly open. The brunette smiled at the affect she was having and continued on.

Placing her hands on the waistband she began to remove the offending pants, as she lowered the material she kissed each exposed area of skin, she allowed her tongue to dart out every now and again to taste the sweetness of her lover.

Once the pants were at her ankles Willow placed her hands on her lover’s shoulders and lifted her feet to allow the pants to be completely removed. She felt as strong hands ran back up her shapely legs and caught her panties, she giggled as she felt them dragged down in one quick motion. Her breath caught in her throat as she felt the warm breath of her lover tickle her sex.

Kennedy was looking directly at her prize, her mouth slightly agape, her tongue darting out almost snake like trying in desperation to taste her lover's sweet arousal. Placing a gentle kiss on her lover's curls she began to raise once again, when she was stood she began to kiss on and around Willow’s parched lips, her tongue coming into play every now and again eliciting soft moans from the red head.

Feeling her lover's arms around her Willow smiled as she felt herself lifted from the ground, she wrapped her arms around the amazingly strong shoulders and allowed herself to be carried to the edge of the bath. She lifted her legs over the edge at felt the heat of the water envelope her body, looking up at her lover she smiled softly.

Once Willow was in the bath Kennedy stepped back a little and began to remove her clothes under the ever watchful gaze of the red head. As she removed the last piece she looked directly into the lust filled eyes of her girlfriend, she felt an air of confidence as she stood completely open with nothing to hide, Willow always made her feel beautiful.

Moving closer to the bath she leaned down and kissed Willow forcefully on the lips, their tongues beginning to battle for dominance yet both willing to be dominated. Placing her hands on either side of the bath she lifted herself in without breaking the kiss, lowering further she positioned herself between her lover's legs. Even with the heat of the water she groaned into the kiss as she felt the heat of her lover's sex pressing into her own.

Willow wrapped her legs around the slender hips of the young woman on top of her bringing her arms around the deceptively strong body she brought her lover down. The both gasped as they felt their bodies meld together, breast against breast, stomach against stomach, sex against sex.

Grinding her hips in a circular motion Kennedy smiled at the moan that escaped her lover. She placed her one hand on the bath for support while she ran the other down the length of the perfect form currently writhing under her. Stopping her movement once she reached her lover's butt, grabbing hold she lifted the witch to her, keeping the rhythm of her own thrusts.

The water began to move in the same rhythm being set by the two women, almost crashing over the sides with the force of movement. Willow held onto her lover, arms and legs wrapped possessively around the strong body trying to pull her impossibly close while continuing to thrust upwards feeling that wonderful friction.

“I need to taste you baby, shit you feel so good.” Kennedy panted into her lover’s ear.

“Mmm.” Was the only response Willow could offer, she was about to protest as she felt the delicious rhythm slow to a stop.

Kennedy slowed her movements and could sense the disappointment from her lover, smiling to herself she brought her hands to either side of the red head's hips and lifted her out of the water and placed her down on the edge of the bath. Sliding forward she wrapped her arms around her lover's back, leaning down she inhaled the arousal of the woman who sat so wantonly above her.

Willow’s breath caught as she felt the talented tongue run along her length, stopping only to tease at her already swollen and pulsing nub. Grabbing hold of the edge of the bath with one hand she tangled the other in the raven locks between her thighs.

Kennedy felt Willow's hand in her hair forcing her on, pulling her closer. She sucked the swollen nub into her mouth and across her teeth, she heard Willow hiss as she began to flick a fast rhythm while continuing to suck.

Willow bucked her hips into the talented mouth, she could feel the burning start to erupt inside her she was close and there was no way she could hold back for much longer.

Sensing how close her lover was Kennedy let go of the pulsing nub she moved lower and began to draw circles around her lover's dripping sex. Tasting the arousal direct from the source Kennedy wondered if this was truly the ambrosia of the Gods. Not being able to resist any longer she plunged her tongue is as deep as she could, feeling the soft walls pulsing around her trying to draw her in deeper.

Willow was moaning and panting heavily at the feel of her lover's tongue pushing into her, she began to rock her hips in the same rhythm thrusting against her girlfriend's face. She could feel herself getting closer and closer with each thrust, she almost cried out as she felt Kennedy’s tongue curl upwards searching for her sweet spot.

Kennedy curled her tongue, it seemed to have a mind of its own as it went in search of its prize. Finally finding the sensitive area she began to flick her tongue while continuing the rhythmic thrusts. Feeling the walls pulse even quicker she grabbed hold of Willow's hips and brought her forcefully to her waiting mouth.

Willow cried out in ecstasy as she felt herself go over the edge into the wonderful abyss of her orgasm, she felt her body tense and then relax as if all the power in her body had been expelled with the force of the orgasm.

Kennedy helped gently lower her lover back into the now cooling water of the bath, holding her tightly as she began to come down from her high.

“Oh Goddess, I love it when you do that.” Willow spoke between breaths.

“I love it when I do that too.” Kennedy smirked while licking her lips, tasting the remainder of her lover.

“I love you.” Willow stated, she had only said it a couple of times to Kennedy, she was still coming to terms with the fact that she had fallen in love with someone. She felt less guilty about it now though, she knew that Tara would be happy for her.

“I love you too baby.” Kennedy leaned in and placed a chaste kiss on her lover’s mouth. “Now what you say to getting out of this water, it’s starting to get cold.”

“Oh I can think of ways of warming you back up.” Willow grinned as she traced her hand lower and grabbed Kennedy’s butt.

“Oh you can, can you?” Kennedy raised her eyebrow a little as if offering a challenge.

“Well, get your ass out of here and get dry, so I can make you all wet again.” Willow whispered.

Within seconds Kennedy was out of the bath and skidding around the bathroom looking for a towel, she turned at the sound of laughing and began to laugh herself. The mere thought of how Willow could make her wet, was enough to make her brain go to mush while the rest of her began to heat up.

“You’re so cute when you’re horny.” The red head spoke as she stepped out of the bath.

Kennedy looked at her lover for a moment watching as her skin glistened in the light of the candles, she swore she had never seen anything so beautiful. Shaking her head to clear it she hurriedly dried herself.

When they were done Willow took Kennedy’s hand and led them through to the bedroom. They were going to need another bath by the time Willow was done, she smiled at the visions flashing through her mind, things she was sure they were going to achieve tonight.

As Buffy and Faith were approaching the door to their apartment Cordelia called from behind them.

“Oh, hey Cor.” Buffy said turning to greet the tall brunette.

“Hey, I just wanted to know if there’s anything you need, I gotta check in with Gunn and Fred and there’s a couple of books that Wesley wants so I was wondering if you needed anything.”

“I can’t think of anything yet, when are they gonna send the books for Wesley?” Buffy asked.

“Probably first thing in the morning.” Cordelia surmised.

“Well, I’ll think about it and let you know.” The blonde replied.

“Ok, well I guess I see you guys in the morning, ‘night.” The brunette turned and walked to the opposite door, opening it she stepped through offering a small wave at the two Slayers.

“Was that really Cordelia Chase?” Buffy smirked amused at how different Cordelia was now compared to her old teen rival.

“Yep, I think so, she had C’s butt.” Faith replied. “Ouch.” She yelped as Buffy clipped here on shoulder. “What was that for?” She asked rubbing the sore spot.

“You were looking at Cordelia’s butt, you shouldn’t be looking at Cordelia’s butt.” Buffy replied as if it was obvious.

“You jealous?” Faith teased wrigling her eyebrows.

“Yeah.” Buffy pouted. “You should be looking at my butt.”

“Oh baby I do, every chance I get.” Faith leered.

Moving closer Buffy pulled Faith into a searing kiss. Faith almost lost her balance with the force Buffy slammed their mouths together, this was a carnal kiss, one showing ownership, Buffy’s mouth began to devour her own and it was all Faith could do not to collapse in a heap there and then.

No sooner had the kiss started but it ended, Buffy stepped back and giggled at Faith who was still stood there, eyes closed mouth open. It took Faith a second to realise that she wasn’t being kissed any more and opened her eyes to find her lover giggling at her.

“Hey shut up you, what d’you expect with what you do to me, it’s a wonder I can stand half the time.” She mumbled slightly embarrassed at her total lack of control.

“It’s ok baby, you do the same to me.”

Faith looked up shocked by the words of her lover, she never thought she could make Buffy feel that way.

“Really?” She asked shyly.

“Yes really, now come on, lets get some drinks and go spar on the roof.”

“You’re on.” Faith replied darting to the door of the apartment and rushing inside.

They hadn’t been on patrol for a few days, and with everything going on they hadn’t been able to spar together either. There was a lot of pent up aggression lying just under the surface of each of them, their ‘slayer’ wanted to be free, to hunt, to kill, to do what she is meant to do. They hated having to suppress the slayer she was part of who they were, so denying the slayer any kind of battle was also denying themselves.

Making their way through the apartment the the balcony they ascended the steps. Once on the roof they made their way over to the small sparing area they had created. Both stopped and faced each other.

“Think you can take me B?” Faith challenged dropping into her fighting stance.

“Anytime F.” Buffy played along.

“Give us a kiss.”

Facing off against each other they began to circle, each eyeing the other cautiously waiting for any sign of an opening. Buffy was caught for a moment in the beauty radiating from the dark slayer, looking over her with unashamed appreciation she didn’t notice as he dark lover dropped to the floor and swiped her feet from under her.

Faith watching the distraction wash over her lover's face made her move, dropping and quickly kicking out her one she she spun taking her blonde lover's feet in one smooth motion. Continuing her movement she shifted her centre of gravity lunging forward and landed on top of her lover.

Before Buffy could process what had happened she was staring up into the deep dark pools of her girlfriend's eyes. Again she was caught in the beauty of them, they showed so much emotion. If you looked hard enough you could tell exactly how the brunette was feeling.

“Bit distracted there B?”

“Well, can you honestly blame me?” Buffy replied. Hoping the discussion was enough of a distraction Buffy raised her legs and bucked Faith off her, rolling over she got to her feet. “Looks like I’m not the only one who’s a little off her game.” The blonde teased.

“Oh that’s it Blondie, you’re going down.” The brunette spoke as she began to rise.

“That’s presumptuous of you baby.” Buffy leered.

Chuckling at her girlfriend's obvious attempt to get her to let her guard down, Faith began to circle Buffy again.

Moving in graceful silence the slayers matched each other step for step, Buffy tried first this time lunging out to punch Faith in the stomach, but was stopped by a forceful block. This was the opening they had been waiting for and before they could say anymore they had begun attacking and defending.

Each punch or kick thrown was expertly blocked neither of them had managed to get a solid strike on the other. They continued on in their graceful dance arms and legs flowing in their purposeful moves. The heat starting to radiate between them was immense, their moves became faster and faster, neither holding back yet still unable to connect solidly with the other.

The moon shone brightly above them, their silhouettes dancing off the turrets surrounding them, the scene was breathtaking. Dark against light, two great forces coming together gracing the night with their ethereal displays. There was silence all around, nothing could be heard, even the wind seemed to have stopped as if standing still watching the scene play out and feeling honoured being a witness to this primal dance.

The sky was clear stars illuminating the darkness, as the fight between the slayers increased in speed they seemed to shine even brighter as if wanting to cast their light on the two.

Faith had stopped watching for Buffy’s next move a while back, she let her senses open and began to feel them. She blocked and countered each move with grace and ease, the force that was being used was far and away beyond what they would normally use while sparring. But there was something about them tonight they were letting go completely, trusting in each other.

Buffy was watching her lover intently while defending herself from another of Faith’s attacks, she was awed at the way her lover moved, graceful almost feline in appearance, slender limbs moving with hidden power. Her raven locks dancing wildly around her shoulders casting moving shadows across her skin.

Skin that was beginning to shine with the beads of perspiration adorning it, the light from the moon adding to the whole ensemble, Buffy could feel a strong desire take over her body as she continued to unconsciously block the attack. All her senses were now trained on her lover for a different reason her nostrils flared as she sensed another wave of arousal come off her dark lover.

Before she knew what was happening Faith felt Buffy’s mouth on hers she groaned as she felt her mouth forced open and a strong tongue invade her. Buffy for her part brought her hand up into the raven locks and held Faith not letting her back away from the force of this kiss.

It all happened so fast that Faith couldn’t wprk out how Buffy had gone from the one being attacked to the one who was attacking. She had somehow managed to get through Faith’s defences and was currently trying to devour her.

Faith grabbed Buffy’s hips roughly and lifted her so her legs were wrapped around her own hips. Turning she walked over and pushed them forcefully into one of the stone turrets. Still in the throws of the heated embrace Faith brought her hands to the front of Buffy’s top and without consideration shed opened the article clean down the centre.

“I liked that top.” Buffy pouted.

“I’ll buy ya another.” Faith offered.

Not giving Buffy a chance to respond she forced their mouths together once more, this was nothing like they had experienced before, usually their lovemaking was soft and full of caresses, this was nothing like that, this pure animalistic need.

Buffy began to push herself against the wall using it as leverage to thrust herself into her lover, she could feel the friction against her and it made her legs tighten around the brunette. She wanted to feel her lover, so she grabbed at Faith’s top and in one swift movement ripped it from her body.

Faith groaned into the kiss as she felt the chill of the night air against her bare breasts, her already hard nipples seemed to harden even more. She pushed against her lover thrusting her hips harder into the petite woman building a rhythm, she brought her hands to her lover's breasts and squeezed them roughly, if she had used this strength on anyone but a slayer they would be crying out in pain, but it only seemed to urge her lover on.

Buffy felt as her breasts were punished under the force of the lover's hands she felt amazing, this was something new to her, this carnal desire, this need to possess and be possessed was different from anything she had ever felt before, never once had she wanted to own someone and never had she wanted to give up ownership of herself.

“God Faith fuck me.” The blonde panted while placing rough kisses along the strong jaw of the brunette.

Hearing the need in the blonde's voice Faith backed up a little allowing Buffy’s legs to drop to the floor. Wasting no time she ripped Buffy pants open and forced her hand into them, she moaned feeling her lover's wetness instantly.

Buffy bucked her hips against the invasion and felt another flood of arousal leave her body, she couldn’t ever remember feeling this turned on. She clasped her mouth over Faith’s pulse point and bit down hard, hearing her lover's scream of pleasure only urged her on more.

Faith thought her knees were about to give out as she felt the wave of arousal travel from her neck down her body and straight to her centre. She was close and she hadn’t even been touched yet. Giving into her lover's need she slipped two fingers inside the blonde, greeted by yet another forceful thrust she continued her assault.

Buffy couldn’t take much more but she wanted Faith with her on this, she wanted her lover to feel how she felt, to experience this together. Gathering some semblance of thoughe rhe roughly prized open Faith’s leather pants and forced her hand inside, not waiting she searched out her goal. As if on instinct her fingers found her lover's dripping sex and thrust inside.

“FUCK.” Faith screamed as she felt Buffy enter her.

“Ya think?” Buffy replied.

Looking into each other’s eyes they began to push into each other at a punishing rate, if they were not slayers they would be screaming in agony not ecstasy. Anyone privy to this display would have thought that they were wild animals claiming their mate, mouths biting every piece of exposed skin they could reach, hands squeezing and pinching everywhere, hips thrusting hard and fast against each other.

Buffy had a sudden thought and opened up their link, she watched as Faith’s pupils dilated and knew she was achieving her goal.

“Can you, can you feel that?” She asked.

“Fuck yes.” Faith replied. She wasn’t sure at first but looking into the hazel pools she knew that what she felt was exactly what Buffy was feeling. Somehow Buffy had managed to open herself to her, allow her to feel everything through their connection. It was amazing, she could feel Buffy inside her but she could also feel ghost like sensations of how she was making Buffy feel.

Looking once again into each other’s eyes they began to thrust harder almost grunting at the effort.

“Together.” Buffy said.

Faith nodded in response while curling her fingers inside the blonde, she almost screamed as she felt the ghost like movement inside herself but Buffy hadn’t moved her fingers, they were still pumping into her.

“Oh fuck, shit!!!” She exclaimed.

Seeing the response the brunette was having and feeling her sweet spot being massaged Buffy began to shake, her orgasm came from nowhere, then all of a sudden it was there, she was riding high, screaming each others names into the night they held on to each other as the last throws of pleasure ran through them.

Collapsing back against the wall Buffy wrapped her arms around the brunette in dire need of support, her legs were sure to give out she knew it. She had never come that hard in her life.

Faith leaned her weight into the petite blonde and tried to catch her breath.

“That was, fucking amazing.” She was shocked at how rough her voice sounded, sure it was normally deeper than the average girl but this was new.

“Good.” Buffy replied, she had wanted to try something like that ever since she found out that Faith could feel her, she wanted to see if she could, well force is the wrong word but wanted to see if she could make Faith feel her.

Relaxing into each other they both jumped when the heard a couple of wolves howling in the distance.

“You think that’s Fang and Ellie?” Buffy asked.

“Well with the noise we made I would say their just offering a Woohoo in our direction.” Faith chuckled.

“Yeah, I think we need to learn how to be a little quieter, it’s a wonder everyone ain’t running up here to see which one of us is dead.” Buffy joked she was finding it easier to go back to the banter the two had when they first met.

It had been difficult at first because each time they would start with the banter it reminded her of the bad times. But now they laughed and joked a lot more freely, things that were said no longer cut so deep, sure some things did but they could see when the other was upset by a comment and quickly tried to rectify the situation.

Feeling Buffy shiver slightly at the chill of the night Faith suggested that they go back down and get into bed.

Curling up into each other both safe and warm they drifted off to sleep.

Waking early Cordelia made her way down to the main kitchen, she set the coffee maker going and walked through the door at the rear. She stood on the back steps and looked out at the expanse of the property, the Scoobs had done well for themselves, the sun was just appearing over the horizon and she watched as the sky changed from purple-black to pink and then to wonderful blue.

She didn’t know how long she was there, she had been lost in her thoughts of Angel once again, the conversation she had had with Faith was still on her mind. What should she do, should she talk to him? Should she admit her feelings for him? If she did, what would that mean? Where would they go from here? Even if he felt the same way there was no guarantee that they would be together. So many questions running through her mind and on top of all that her head was still hurting from the pain of the last vision. She really needed to get something done about it, with all the resources at Wolfram and Hart they should be able to find out why the pain is so bad.

Jumping a little at the sound of a door closing she turned to see Ami stood there.

“Sorry, I didn’t know anyone was out here.” Ami offered an apology at the stunned brunette.

“It’s ok, just a little jumpy.” Cordelia spoke softly to the new arrival. “Did you sleep well?”

“Not bad, but it’s never the same as your own bed.”

“True, you want some coffee?” Cordelia smiled.

“I’d love some.” Ami answered, she was normally an early riser but still couldn’t function properly without the correct amount of caffeine.

Following Cordelia back into the kitchen she sat at the breakfast bar, she watched intently as Cordelia poured the coffee.

“Your head still hurting?” She enquired seeing the slight frown on Cordelia’s face.

“It’s not so bad, I kinda get used to it.” The ex cheerleader stated.

Ami noticed that the response to the question seemed to be a little too rehearsed, but she decided not to call Cordy on it.

“So ah, you’re one of the LA crew then?”

“Yeah, I suppose I am, I use to be a Scooby back in the day, one of the original cast.” Cordelia answered with a smile, she was fond of the memories from high school, even if at the time she tried to portray nonchalance deep down she did care about the others.

“Original cast, you make it sound like a TV show or something.” Ami chuckled.

“Well, the amount of things that happened I’m convinced one of the networks would pick it up.” Cordy joked a little.

She had only met Ami last night but in that short space of time had begun to like her, she was intelligent and knew a fare amount about demon cultures he father had obviously schooled her well.

“So you ok with being here? I mean hiding and stuff.” She questioned.

“Yeah, I’m used to running, Dad tends to get himself tied up in all the wrong things.” Ami answered with a slight grin.

“What about your Mom?”

“She’s ok, I lived with her most of my life, Dad wasn’t around much but when I was old enough to take care of myself I decided to join him. It’s been fairly quiet over the last few years, I think this is the longest Dad has settled down.”

“He travelled a lot huh?” Cordy asked understanding a little about that, even though her father didn’t exactly travel far, he was never home, always at business meetings or entertaining some big client out of town. He thought her credit card was a suitable surrogate for his love.

“Yeah, he would always be running off on some secret mission or something, but I don’t hate him for it cos whenever he came home he always made me feel special, he always took the time to get to know me even though he missed out on a lot.” Ami smiled remembering some fun times with her father.

Kriss had never been able to stay for long but what he lacked in quantity he definitely made up for in quality. He wouldn’t exactly spoil her but he would make sure that she had whatever she wanted as long as she saw the true value in things. He taught he many things about humans and demons alike, and also showed her that sometimes the line dividing the two species smudged beyond recognition.

They were a perfect example of the smudged lines they were demons yet lived peacefully among humans. Ami was able to walk around in the image of a human, able to work as a human and have human friends. Yet there were many ‘humans’ who were so sadistically evil they should be banished to another plain.

“So how do you know James?” Cordelia enquired.

“Well Dad worked with the Council on a few different missions, I gather that’s how Giles know him. Thomas was one of the few watchers that Dad was able to trust, when we were finally ready to try to settle down Dad contacted him, there wasn’t much in the way of demon activity around here even though its home to another Hellmouth. So we decided to move here, Dad opened the bar and Thomas and James became like a sort of extended family.” Ami explained her relationship with the boy and his father.

“So he’s like a little brother to you then?” Cordy surmised.

“Yeah you could say that, when Thomas had to run me and Dad were trying to look out for James yunno, but we didn’t know this was going to happen. When he first went missing we tried everything to locate him but came up empty. We had many of the regulars of the bar looking out for him but nothing. We had almost given up hope then he turns up all battered.” Ami dropped her head in defeat, she had tried everything to find James in the beginning but not knowing if he had run of his own accord due to he brutal death of his father or if he had been a lucky kill for some vamp.

“Hey, you couldn’t have stopped this. Trust me, these things happen, you can’t protect everyone all the time.” Cordelia offered a little support. “In any case it’ll all turn out good you got the best slayers on your side now remember.”

Ami smiled a little at that comment, Dawn had explained some of the things that Buffy had been through, the apocalypses she had stopped with the help of all her friends, she was awed at how this group of misfits who seemed to have nothing going for them had managed to save the world countless times.

“I guess you’re right.” She concurred.

“Of course I’m right I’m Queen ‘C’ girl and Queen ‘C’ is always right.” Cordy stated with a firm nod showing a little of the ‘tude she had back in the day.

Soon enough the house was a hive of activity, Angel and Spike had the pleasure of training some of the SIT’s in the basement. Buffy wanted to know what they thought of their progress since fighting the First.

All of the SIT’s had been out on patrols but only Vi and Rhona had been able to go unaccompanied. She valued their opinion on whether the girls were ready or not, she was afraid that some of them wouldn’t be ready either mentally or physically. Even though they had fought the First and they had gone out on patrols there was almost a safety net under them. She knew herself that it was easier to fight in numbers the strong would help defend the weak.

Dawn had been doing a good job in trying to keep track of their individual strengths and weaknesses while training, but the true test only came when you faced your enemy. In the training room you had no reason to be afraid and your natural instinct to run wouldn’t be a factor.

She had asked the vampires to go easy at first just test them out, but once they felt that they had someone she told them to go all out. She had briefed the SIT’s first that this was a test but that Angel and Spike would not be holding back, they had to fight for real or they would get hurt.

It had been going well both Angel and Spike were impressed by the speed and agility of some of the girls, they were still not up to either Buffy or Faith’s standards but then they hadn’t seen as much action.

Deciding that it was time for a break Spike called a halt to the proceedings telling the girls to go get lunch and that they would reconvene later.

Joining the rest of the group in the library they joined in the tedious task of researching, this had to be one of the most difficult things that any of them had had to research. There was no texts containing anything, they couldn’t find any prophecies relating to it, they couldn’t find anything it was as if all information had been wiped out.

“This is useless.” Faith stated dropping her head into the large tome she was currently leafing through.

“Aw poor baby.” Buffy pouted a little while rubbing Faith’s back a little trying to comfort her.

“W..nv….go…fi.nth.” Faith mumbled into the pages not willing to lift her head, she hated research and this was just torture.

“Huh?” Buffy enquired not understanding anything that had just been said.

“I said, we’re never gonna find nothing.” Faith lifted her head and turned to pout at her lover.

“Hmmm look at that lip.” Buffy wiggled her eyebrows and quickly moved forward to catch the pouting lip with her own, sucking gently she giggled at the moan that escaped her girlfriend.

“No fair B, I forgot what I was complaining about now.” Faith mock scowled.

“Really? It’s good to know I can have that affect.”

“You have no idea.” Faith replied turning back to the heavy tome.

Before she could complain again the peace in the library was broken by Cordelia entering followed by Ami both were carrying trays of food and drinks.

“Hey guys, thought we could use a break, the kids are tucking into lunch so I thought we could do the same.” She smiled waving at the trays laden down with all sorts of food.

“Cor, have I told ya how much I love ya.” Faith dived out of her chair and towards the food before anyone could blink.

“Some things never change.” Buffy smiled at her girlfriend who was busy building a sandwich.

When she was finished building her sandwich Faith returned to her seat completely unaware of everyone in the room staring at her. As she lifted it to her mouth she glanced up.

“What?” She exclaimed as she went to take a bite out of the food.

“Ah, you wanna leave some for the others?” Buffy asked raising her eyebrow indicating to the sandwich and then back over to the almost empty tray.

“Ooops, got carried away again.” Faith blushed a little.

Everyone erupted in laughter causing the brunette to blush even more but eventually she joined in.

“I’ll go get some more.” Ami offered lifting the tray and heading out of the library.

“I’ll give you a hand.” Spike offered.

Ami turned to look inquisitively at the vampire, she was used to normal vampires not used to this almost human side of them. Without objection she allowed Spike to follow her through the house and into the kitchen.

The others remained behind watching as Faith tucked in to her lunch. The research had not been going well at all, Cordelia had contacted Fred and Gunn and they were busy trying to get as much information as possible about the impending rituals.

Gunn was going to try to contact the ‘Senior Partners’ through the White Room, but they held little hope in his success. The ‘Partners’ had refused to help Angel with something else not so long ago just because he asked them for help, they deemed it as weakness and would not allow a CEO of theirs to have any weakness.

Fred and Lorne were going to contact some ally demon clans to see if they had any information that would be of interest. But that was all they had the books had revealed nothing.

Willow entered the library looking rather dazed she had gone to James earlier and offered to perform some healing spells. He had accepted and so she had spent the best part of the morning chanting different spells in order to heal his wounds.

“Hey baby, you look tired.” Kennedy stated walking over to greet her girlfriend.

“I am a little, I think I’m gonna take a nap after lunch.” The red head stated quietly.

“Is everything ok Willow, I mean a few healing spells shouldn’t take this much out of you.” Giles asked worried that the witch may be suffering.

“Yes it’s ok Giles, I think I’m just outta practise, I mean other than the protection spells on this place I haven’t done much magic and I suppose I’m just not used to it. Don’t worry I’ll contact the Coven and ask them for a little help, I’ll be fine.” Willow spoke confidently, she knew that the protection spell and the healing spells shouldn’t be that draining but she also knew that the Coven would help her get through this.

Ever since the ‘incident’ as she liked to refer to it, she has held back from using magic, she had practised a little but she still doesn’t feel ready for anything big. The spell she cast to help with the demise of the first was huge she had felt the magic pulsing through her body for days after. It felt different from before though this feeling was of warmth and of comfort.

Kennedy had done a lot to help her she had supported her from the start. Sure it had been a little strained on times, especially when Willow had drained her power back when they were still trying to fight the first. The young woman had been there for her without overcrowding her, offering her silent support and waiting for Willow to turn to her.

Willow smiled up at her lover and held her a little tighter. When Tara had been taken from her she never thought she would be able to love again, but this young brunette in her arms had not taken ‘no’ for an answer. She was funny, intelligent, beautiful and strong yet she could also be the softest person in the room and Willow loved that about her.

“Huh, sorry Buff, what did you say?” She asked being forced out of her musings by her best friend.

“I asked how James was doing?” The blonde repeated herself. “You sure you’re ok?” She finished a little concerned.

“Yes I’m fine, will everyone stop worrying about me.” The red head replied strain showing in her voice. “James will be fine, I’ve managed to heal his broken leg and his ribs, he’s still in a bit of pain but he should be fine with some more rest.”

“Is it ok if I go and see him, I mean see if he needs anything?” Dawn asked.

“Yeah sure Dawnie, just let him rest if that’s what he wants.” Willow answered the teen.

“Great, I’ll take him some food and stuff, he’s bound to be bored.” Dawn spoke as she rushed to leave the library.

This was bad news, Klee was currently sat facing his mehey hey had come to report on the whereabouts of the boy, he had been moved and from what his men could work out he had been moved to a very powerful place. His men were going to try to gain access to the property but had bore witness when Kriss’ car was stopped as it entered.

Not knowing what else to do one of them had stayed behind just in case the boy was moved again while the others had returned to pass the news of the development.

“Who are these people?” Klee exclaimed.

“We do not know sir, they are very powerful we think these are the people responsible for demise in the demon populous in this area.”

“Find out all you can about them, this plan can not fail me.” Klee stood and walked around the men and left the room.

He could not believe that his plan could be in jeopardy, from what they knew of the boy before he did not know any powerful people, they had noted that new new of demons and such but that was understandable considering his father's network of connections.

The next ritual was to take place in a couple of days, and the last one a few more days after that, he had to get the book. The final ritual was specified in it, the sacred words that are to be spoken are written on its pages, centuries have passed opportunities missed but this time, oh this time nothing was going to go wrong. Standing a little taller at this thought Klee continued on his way to update his Master.

Knocking lightly on the door Dawn waited for a reply on hearing the rough voice call for her to enter she opened it and walked through trying not to drop anything.

“Hey, I thought I’d bring you some food and drinks, and well I got you a few magazines, sorry they’re mostly girlie but there’s not much choice around here, I did get Faith and Xander to lend you some of their comics though, so that should be ok for you, or of course you can watch some TV and I could get Xander to bring you a DVD player yunno so you can watch some movies and stuff……and I better take a breath before I pass out.” Dawn blushed a little at her outburst.

“Thanks, I think I’ll stick with the magazines and stuff for now.” James smiled over at the young woman he guessed she must have been around sixteen or seventeen, he though she looked kinda cute babbling away.

“Sorry. I should of asked, how are you feeling?”

“Much better, whatever it is that Willow did, man it feels good. I can actually take a deep breath now.” James answered, he was impressed with what Willow had done.

He had been sceptical at first but Kriss had explained that everything would be ok and just to trust in the magic. Willow had been great, she had really made him feel at ease, he was a little scared at first thinking that maybe she would turn him into a frog or something, or maybe stand there pulling rabbits outta hats. He chuckled a little at how ridiculous he had been.

“What’s so funny?” Dawn asked noticing the amused look on James’ face.

“Well, when Willow offered to do some magic to make me feel better, I had visions of her pulling rabbits outta hats and stuff.” James explained laughing a little.

Dawn looked at him strangely for a moment then came the visuals of Willow dressed in some shabby sequined dress waving her arms around while frantically trying to get her props to stand up. The thought made Dawn start to giggle she could picture it so easily.

“Now that would be entertaining.” Dawn laughed again.

The ice had been broken the pair began to chat about some light things, you know what kind of music they were into, what’s their favourite food, what’s the best-flavoured ice cream. It had been good for the two of them, James found it easy to relax around Dawn he thought she was funny and the faces she would make were just so cute, he found himself blushing a couple of times as he caught himself lingering a little to long while looking at her.

Dawn was enjoying talking to James they had been telling different kinds of stories ranging from boring high school to Dawn relaying some of the slayer battles. They had been getting on really well and neither of them had noticed how much time had actually passed.

That was of course until Kriss had come back up to request their presence at a meeting about to take place before dinner. They both looked shocked as they realised that they had been talking for about four hours, it had only felt like an hour tops.

With Kriss’ help James got ready while Dawn waited patiently outside, when he was ready they made their way to the library, each hoping for some good news.

Entering the library Dawn knew straight away that there wasn’t any good news. Her sister was currently sat on Faith’s lap snuggled into her looking off at an unseen point in front of her. The others were much the same all of them quiet waiting for the meeting to start.

“Oh hello James, how are you feeling?” Wesley asked noting the new arrivals.

“I’m feeling good thanks.” James smiled he looked around the room quickly, his eyes finally falling on the green pools of the red head. “And thank you Willow, I don’t know how you did it, but thanks.”

“No problem.” Willow blushed.

Everyone moved to take their place at the large table, Buffy and Faith sat together not willing to stray too far from the other. Willow and Kennedy were much the same the red head had not let go of her lover’s hand since they had arrived. The others placed themselves at various points readying themselves for whatever was to come.

“Right then, I suppose we can start.” Giles looked at everyone, when he saw he had their attention he continued. “We’ve heard from Gunn and as expected the Senior Partners have declined to help. Fred and Lorne have also been unsuccessful but we do have a possible lead on who has the diamond. We’re waiting for some more information on them.”

“Well it’s not all bad.” Faith offered.

“No, not all, but we still do not have any clues as to how these rituals are performed and we do not know if they can be stopped. We really must make the decision on retrieving the Book of Zirex I think it is our only option.” Giles spoke an air of worry adorning his features.

“Yeah, I think you’re right Giles.” Buffy agreed turning to face up the table she looked directly at James. “Time to cough up the goodies.”

James swallowed hard at the look of strength in the petite slayers eyes it was time for him to reveal the books location. It seemed ironic that he had spent the best part of a month being beaten and terrorised by a bunch of demons and now he was going to give up its location to a bunch of strangers.

“Ok, I suppose if we have no other choice.” He stated, still not liking the fact he was going to tell them, but somehow he trusted them, they had taken them in without a word, they had offered comfort and understanding.

Seeing no other reason not to, James began to explain exactly where the location was. Everyone was shocked to discover that it was actually hidden in his apartment, the apartment he had shared with his father. He ashamedly admitted to not caring about the books that his father had left him when his father had been run out of town.

There was a sense of understanding as James tried to relay how he had felt when his father had run. It had been difficult for him, he had begged his father to let him go with him but he had been convinced to stay behind. He had tried to relay how he felt when he heard that his father haen ken killed another of the watcher’s who was also on the run had witnessed his brutal murder.

Willow pulled up schematics of James apartment building enabling James to point out exactly where the books where hidden. It had been decided that they would retrieve all the books, James didn’t know exactly what books where contained in the collection altogether but he did know of some watcher diaries and other rare books that had peaked Giles and Wesley’s curiosity.

Deciding that they would plan the extraction after dinner they all left the library to join the SIT’s in the now well over crowded dining room. It seemed to have been yet another long day and they were all sure there were many more to come.

CHAPTER 34

Dedication: My Inspiration, My Guiding Light, My Princess...this ones for you.

Opening her eyes cautiously at the sun glaring through the curtains she focused on the soft glow of numbers in front of her, seven thirty, it was way to early to be awake. Feeling her lover's body pressed against her and an arm wrapped over her side she smiled to herself, at least there was a benefit to waking early she got to spend even more precious time with her.

Carefully as not to wake her lover she turned to face her, settling back she looked at her lover's perfect face. Raising her hand she gently moved a stray lock that had been obstructing her view, she was still having a hard time believing that they were together. After everything they had been through, after everything they put each other through, she silently sent thanks to whoever it may be for bringing them together, for allowing them the honour of being able to love the other.

Leaning in gently she began to place feather like kisses at each corner of her lover's mouth, moving inward with each kiss. They had woken each other like this since their first night t