The Legend of 'Kel Tok'
by scriptseeker2000
Rating: PG
Disclamer: I do not own BTVS or its charcters. If I did the show would have been different in the relationship pairings.
"Find it you Fools! Lord Kalis wants that artifact. Faliure will result in your instant deaths!"
The Tengo demons nodded their response and continued looking through the wreckage. Fires continued to burn but their yellow skin made them immune. They clawed through the wreckage with claws that could rip through any metal as well as paralyse a person. They tried sniffing the air for magic but the air was too thick of burning flesh and rotting corpses.
Sirus continued to look on as the Tengo's searched. He also began to wonder if he made an error in using his fire balls. If only he hadn't been so excited on finally finding the rebels main base. He just couldn't stop himself from delivering a rain of fire on the place. Not to mention he knew the artifact wouldn't be destroyed by it. It should have worked out perfectly. Kill everyone and everything in the place, walk in and retrieve the artifact, and then walk back out and deliver it to Kalis. He was so sure that it would be that easy that he let the Tengo's feed on the bodies still intact. None were well enough to make into their children so they would have to be food instead.
Unfortunally things didn't happen the way he wanted them to. They had been searching for 20 minutes and yet found it. The Tengo's ability to sense magic should have found it by now. By the way they howled when he found the place he knew the artifact was here. If he didn't find it soon the Tengo's wouldn't be the only ones to pay. Kalis other Elites had found their artifacts. If Sirus failed he would look bad in his Lord's eyes, an embarrasment. Lord Kalis did not suffer fools, he got rid of them.
Sirus was taken out of his thoughts by the ground suddenly shaking. Which was followed by the ground opening up as Sirus and the Tengo's tried to keep their balance. A circular light came out of the opening and ascended into the sky. It went about 20 feet in the air when it stopped and exploded. It created a bright flash that lit up the sky blinding all the Tengo's.
Shortly after the blast four hover scooters came out the ground and headed east. The Tengo's, still blinded, didn't see them or the small chest one had under his arm.
Sirus on the other hand was born of fire and light and was therefore unaffected by the blast. He saw the four scotters with seven people heading east. He also saw the small chest and determined the artifact was in it. He could not let them escape.
Sirus raised his hands and yelled "FIRESTORM". The skies darkened and fireballs rained down. They were heading right for the scooters and Sirus smirked at his success, or so he thought.
Inches from turning the rebels innto burning corspes like their friends the fireballs were reflected. They discenagrated into a blue shield erected around the rebels. This continued until they were out of Sirus' site and attack.
Sirus' glowing head glowed all the more brighter with his consuming anger. It was not his strongest attack, but still to deflect it meant there was a powerful magic user in the group. Sirus calmed himself and looked around. The Tengo's seemed to be regaining their sight.
"They went east, we have to cut them off. Gather around me quickly so we can catch them," said Sirus.
The Tengo's immediately obeyed and gathered around him. Sirus concentrated his mind and an orb of fire started to surround them all. Eventually the orb did surround them and it lifted them into the air. No heat could be felt from the inside, but any who touched the outside would be instantly incarcerated.
Sirus then pointed his right arm east and the orb of fire took off in that direction with them inside. If there had been anybody alive to see it from the ground it would have looked like a comet in the night sky.
Elsewhere the last surviving members of the base continued their journey. The area they were traveling in was deserted. Sirus and his troops has searched through this valley many times and found nothing.
Suddenly the lead scotter driver raised his hand signaling the others to stop. Once they all did the leader rechecked his map and turned to the others.
"This is the place, do your stuff Ronda."
A woman got off the third scooter and came forward. She raised both hands forward and began an incantation.
"Oh mighty Temple of the acients hear our call
Our world is in peril and about to fall
We seek your protection and guidance this day
So please show yourself and light our way."
Suddenly the air started to shimmer in front of them. Where once was empty space now stood a sixty foot temple. The door of the temple rose and a bright light shown through it. The rebels hurriedly guided their scooters inside the door and it closed behind them.
The inside of the temple was beautiful but they had no time to look. They kept a steady pace following through the tunnels and pathways that the light guided them through. Soon the light disappeared as they came into a room.
The room itself looked like a shrine with its many statues adorning the walls. Also the room provided its own light from the crystals in the ceiling. However what the rebels came to find was in the center of the room.
There were four 8 feet clear crystals separated forming a square. In front of the stairs leading to it was a dial with different symbols on them. They drove their scooters to the dial and got off of them.
"Alright Edward, use your books and find us a planet that suits our purposes" said the leader.
Edward pushed up his glasses and took off his back pack. He then opened it up and took a book out.
"Yes, of course Malachite. Now lets see, we need a world of magic, advanced culture as well as civilization-"
"Stop the talking and do it damnit" interrupted Malachite.
Edward looked up over his glasses at him. "Sorry sir, I'll stop talking now." With that he put his head back in the book.
Unexpectantly the temple started to shake. Seconds later it did it again.
"Sirus must have found us. Ronda, start creating a strong barrier around us. We need more time," said Malachite.
"I'll do my best Malachite, but my magic is weakened from Sirus' last attack as well as summoning the temple" said Ronda.
"I know Ronda, your best us all I can ask," pointing to three of his soilders "You three form a line in front of the stairs. Let no one get through, understand?"
"Yes sir!" said the soilders together and formed their blockade.
Malachite then turned to a teenage girl with blond hair. "You better get behind the soilders Sarah, there is little you can do."
Sarah nodded her head and got behind the blockade.
The temple shook again but Malachite had more to say. "Remember people, we must protect the artifact at all costs. If Kalis gets it no planet will be save from his terror."
Everyone nodded their head and prepared. Ronda concentrated on her magic while the soilders checked their weapons.
Malachite checked his weapon as well. The temple continued to shake as they continued to prepare themselves.
Finally the Ceiling blew out and a huge fireball came through.
"We're out of time Edward, choose one now," yelled Malachite.
Stuttering "Right, I believe this world-"
"Shut up and do it!!"
Edward nodded his head and turned back to the dial. He started turning it to match the symbols in his book.
From above them the fireball zoomed down upon them into a dive. Ronda raised her hands and once again a blue shield surrounded them. The fireball crashed into the shield but did not go through. However Ronda did go down to one knee.
"Hurry Edward, Sirus will break through any second," yelled Malachite.
The fireball backed up and creashed against the shield again. Once again the shield held but Ronda wento down to both knees and her nose started to bleed.
Malachite and the other soilders raised their weapons preparing for Sirus to break through. They knew their weapons would have little effect but they had nothing else.
They watched as the fireball rose to the very top of the ceiling and got brighhter. Even with the shield they could feel the immense heat it gave off. They all knew it was preparing for a major dive. They all looked to Ronda and from her tired form they knew she couldn't stop another attack. Then the fireball dived and they all tensed.
"I got it" yelled Edward. At the same time the fireball crashed into the shield and broke through. The fireball also exploded sending all of them to the ground.
Behind them up the stairs the crystals turned black and energy shot from them to the center. Suddenly a portal was formed there.
Malachite was the first to recover from the explosion and looked behind him. "Edward get going, we'll be right behind you."
Edward put his book in his back pack with the others and ran up the stairs into the portal.
As the others started to rise they were confronted with Sirus and a dozen Tengo demons.
"Your friend might have escaped but none of you will. Now give me the artifact Malachite and I promise your deaths will be swift," said Sirus.
"Screw you Sirus, your boss will never have the Phoniex Gate." With that Malachite turned around toward the portal.
"NO!!!" Yelled Sirus knowing Malachite's intent and shot flames at Malachite's back.
However it was too late as Malachite threw the chest with the Phoneix Gate inside. Just as the flames incarcerated his body the chest went through the portal.
"Damn you Malachite!!" Sirus then started to run forward with the Tengo demons right behind him.
The remaining soldiers started to fire but their weapons had little effect. The Tengo's ran through the laser blasts and were on them in seconds. One Tengo took a soldier's weapons and this spit acid into his face. The soldier yelled in horror and grabbed his decaying face. Two Tengo's reached another soldier. One took the soldier's weapons away while the other Tengo grabbed him by both arms. Then white wrappings came from the Tengo's three pores in its head and began to wrap the man up. The man struggled but it was pointless. His while body was eventually wrapped and it turned to yellow. By tomorrow the young man would be a Tengo as well.
The remaning soilder backed up the stairs with the girl behind him. He managed to kill one Tengo and took out his shock grenade. He threw it and and two more Tengo's were killed in a display of sparks and Sirus was momentarily stunned.
"Mortes Plumes" yelled Sarah and lighting shot from her fingers further slowing down Sirus.
"Randor, take Sarah away from here" yelled Ronda.
"No master, I won't leave you" Sarah yelled even as Rando grabbed her and pulled her toward the portal.
"Oh no you don't" said Sirus as he raised his hands to reap revenge on those who attacked him.
Ronda saw what he was about to do and summoned the last of her power from her aching body. "ARTIC BLAST."
Artic winds hit four Tengo's and Sirus freezing them on impact. The remaining Tengo's turned around and faced Ronda. Randor used the distraction to pull Sarah and himself into the portal.
As the Tengo's converged on her she threw an energy blast at the dail. The dial exploded and the portal started to close. At the moment Sirus broke from his frozen tomb. He saw the portal closing and ran towards it. He dived for the portal but was a second too late. The portal disappeared and Sirus hit the ground.
Ronda saw this and smiled. She then fell over from lack of energy. The Tengo's took this opportunity to maul her.
Meanwhile Sirus banged his fist on the ground screaming his lungs out. He got up and turned to release his anger on the rebels. He was diappointed to see that the Tengo's had alrady torn them apart as well as put one in a cocoon that futher angered him and he turned his attention to the four frozen Tengo's and proceeded to blow them up with his fireballs.
This made him feel a little better until he remembered his failure. With the dial destroyed he had no idea where the rebels took the artifact. Only Kalis had the power to find them now. Sirus only hoped when he told him Kalis would spare his life. This was his first failure after all. Unfortunately he knew that Kalis didn't give second chances. In short, he was a dead man.
"So Buff, slow night tonight," said Xander.
"Yeah, it's the first time since Adam came on the scene. The vamps had been gaining more courage. Maybe my plan to put the fear of the slayer in them is working," said Buffy.
"Considering the increase of deaths I thinks that's doubtful. It's more likely they're planing something big. With our success rate being so low that's not a good thing," said Willow.
"If it wasn't for Riley and the soldier boys this town would have been overrunned with demons by now. Of course if anyone else asks I never said that," said Xander.
"Yeah, ever since the late professor Walsh tried to kill me I don't like them so much. Not to mention they catch more than kill. Trying to reform demons is a lost cause. The worse thing is that when it fails I have to clean up the mess. I really hate my job," said Buffy.
"Look on the bright side Buffy" said Willow.
"Which is."
"You finally have a boyfriend you don't have to hide the slayer part from. In fact it gives you more in common."
"Thanks Will, but he still has macho issues."
"As he should, no man likes a girl that can pick him over her head with one hand and not even struggle doing it," said Xander.
"True, but it does get tiring trying not to hurt his male ego all the time" responded Buffy.
"Well maybe if . . . oh two o'clock," said Willow.
"My watch only says 11:45, maybe you should-"
Willow interrupted Xander "No, not as in time, 2 o'clock as in direction."
"I got it Will, you guys stay here I won't be long," said Buffy running off to face two vampires.
"Oh, that 2 o'clock" said Xander nodding to himself.
Willow could only roll her eyes and rethink her childhood crush on the boy.
Meanwhile the two vampires noticed Buffy running up to them. If they knew she was the slayer they didn't show it. They bared they fangs and waited for their food to come to them.
Buffy gripped her stake tighter in her right hand and went for the vamp on the left first. He spinned and used her left leg to try and sweep him. The vampire jumped over her leg just as Buffy expected and she continued her spin bringing her stake to the now landing vampires, easy kill.
Unfortunately it didn't go as planned as the vampire on the right hit her hand causing Buffy to miss the heart by a few inches. It still hit him the chest but was not fatal.
The vampire stumbled back from the force of the blow while the other took his chance to attack.
The vampire's unexpected help of his partner distracted Buffy enough that the vampire got in a punch to her face as well as a kick to her stomach. These blows brought her back to her senses and she retaliated.
The vampire tried to punch her in the face again but this time she caught it in her hand. She then proceeded to bend his wrist back effectively breaking it. The vampire howled in pain and grabbed his broken wrist with his other hand. This left his heart totally unprotected.
Once again she was stopped in the kill by the other vampire interfering. But this time she was prepared and moved out the way of his flying jump kick. Once the vampire landed her turned and attempted a roundhouse kick to her head. Buffy dodged it but the kick hit the vampire in the head behind her sending him to the ground.
The vampire saw his error and looked to his partner in concern. Therefore he was surprised when a stake appeared in his chest. Buffy then ripped the stake off the vampire's chest as it was turning to dust. In a fluid motion she dived on the downed vampire and staked him in the heart before he could recover. The vampire turned into dust under her and she fell to the ground.
"Way to go Buff," yelled Xander as he and Willow jogged to her.
Buffy rose from the ground and dusted herself off. "It was only two vamps, hardly worth the praise guys. But still, I appreciate the support."
As they reached her willow spoke "Tell me if I'm wrong Buffy, but it looked like they were protecting each other."
"You're not wrong willow, they were. Not only has Adam got them showing no fear. He now has them caring for one another. Not an easy thing to do considering vampires don't have souls," said Buffy.
"You think if we asked Adam real nicely he could get the vampires to be good?" asked Xander.
"I doubt it, he doesn't even understand the difference from good and evil himself. He's only doing this to make them better soldiers." Responded Buffy.
"No worries Buff, your still champ of the graveyard."
"Yeah, and I'm so proud of that title" said Buffy sarcastically.
"As you should be" said Xander not knowing that Buffy wasn't serious.
Buffy and Willow looked at each other and rolled their eyes.
"Well come on gang, we still got three more cemetaries to patrol. I promised my mom I would be home by one and I want to start keeping my promises for a change."
With that Buffy walked off with her loyal scooby gang right behind her.
What none of them noticed was they had been watched the whole time by a Camil demon. A green lizard type demon that had the ability to blind in with its surroundings. Its powers were similar to that of a chameleon.
The Camil demon decided it had watched long enough and disengaged itself from the tree. He was now easy to see if anybody had been around. But no one was as he ran off to report the Slayer's activites to his master.
If the demon had only watched them a little longer he would have seen something very unusual. The Slayer grabbed her stomach and dropped to both knees. She tried to stand but the pain was unbearable. Her friends tried to ask her what was wrong but she couldn't hear them. All of her concentration was on blocking out the pain.
For what seemed like hours but was only 15 seconds the pain finally stopped. Just as sudden as it came it disappeared without a trace. Buffy let go of her stomach in disbelief and stood up very slowly. Now that she was without the pain she could hear her friends.
"Buffy, are you alright should we get Giles" said a nearly hysterical Willow.
"Yeah Buff, what's the what?" asked Xander.
Buffy calmed her breathing before she spoke "I don't know what happen guys. I had an immense pain in my stomach that seemed like it would never stop. Then all of a sudden it was gone. I can't explain it but the pain didn't feel physical. It felt like some invisible force was pulling at me. Except that I have no idea where."
"Weird" said Xander, not knowing what else to say.
"I think that we should go see Giles," said Willow repeating her earlier statement.
"I think so too, but after patrol. I don't think anything was trying to hurt me, just get my attention," said Buffy.
"I'm sure that could have found a easier way," said a skeptical Xander.
"I agree, but we'll ask Giles about it later. For now lets finish our patrol" said buffy.
With that they continued their walk through the cemetary.
Elsewhere someone else was going through the same immense pain. Except that this person was already unconscious and had been for some time. Another differenence is that while Buffy considered the pain bad this person considered it good. It was the first thing they felt in months. This new sensation surged through this person's body bringing once dormant functions back to life.
Suddenly the monitor started to beat rapidly. The person on the bed clenched their fist and grinded their teeth. The patient was in a private room so it took some time for somebody to respond.
"I'm telling you doctor, it's coming from the patent 13," said the nurse.
"I'm retelling you that is impossible. That girl cannot wake up. We only keep her on life support because of the late Mayor Wilkins will that she be until the age of 21. The girl is effectively brain dead," said the doctor.
"I know all this, but it doesn't change the fact that she's awake now," stated the nurse.
"It's some error with the machines. Once we reach the room you'll see that-"
He never finished his sentence because as they entered the room they were confronted with an eerie sight.
A 5'8 brunette was standing in the middle of the room. Her hair was tossed everywhere giving her the look of a mad woman. Her clenched fists and narrowed eyes only confirmed this observation.
Both the doctor and the nurse were shocked speechless. Patient 13 was not only awake but standing. In other words Faith was back, and she was pissed.
The three survivors found themselve inside a crypt. Judging by the spider webs on the wall and the dirt on the floor it hadn't been used in some time. So for now at least, they were safe.
"You two should stay here while I explore this world" said Randor.
"That would be an illogical course of action Randor. You have no idea what danger this world has. I on the other hand do. Please allow me to educate you before you get yourself killed in your haste," said Edward.
"Don't talk down to me professor, I'm trained to handle any situation," said Randor.
"So were the others, including your Commander Malachite. You my friend are all that's left of your breed" Edward said bluntly.
"You know nothing of our ways, you are not a soldier. Therefore you have no right to demean those that sacrificed themselves for your ass," said Randor angrily.
"That was not my intent. I respect you and am grateful to your soldier race. I'm simply saying what made them great was their ability to listen to others. I'm asking you to do that now. After all, we are all we have left," stated Edward.
To this Randor remained silent and Edward took that as his acceptance to hear him out.
"Thank you, first you should know this world has a variety of demons. However very few of them use any kind of magic. Most depend on brute strength and primitive weapons. The most numerous of this world seem to be called vampires."
"What are their strengths and weakness" interuppted Randor.
"Before I get to that I should explain their background. They start off as humanoids just like ourselves. A vampire uses its fangs to pierce a person's neck and draining them of their blood. Then the vampire cuts itself and forces its victim to drink from it. At which point the person sleeps for a night and a day and then rises. They too become a vampire and repeat the cycle."
"So instead of killing their victims they use them to add to their race. They sound alot like the Tengos."
"In that way they are, but that is where the similarites end. Unlike the Tengo's vampires cannot stand sunlight. They burn to ash in seconds. Direct attacks by fire have the same result. Also they can be killed by a wooden or iron object to the heart. Cutting off their head is also a way to kill them. Also since vampires are close to pure demons holy things such as holy water or a cross can hurt them. Lastly they cannot enter a house unless they are invited."
"How can beings with so many weakness possibly be the most numerous demons? Are the defenses on this world so weak?" asked Randor.
"Not so much weak as ill informed."
"Explain."
"Most of the people of this world don't know or accept the existence of demons. They belive the only demons in their society are their own kind in human form. Also don't forget that I said the most numerous, that doesn't mean they are the strongest. There are demons here who can control both fire and earth."
"Like the Elites" said a shocked Randor.
"Yes, but nowhere near the extent of their power. There are also those whose own bodies work as a weapon. They can slash as well as smash. They are those who can bend reality itself. Again, nowhere near the extent of the Elites. Luckily according to my books the most powerful demons have either been killed, banished, or imprisoned years ago."
"Just how recent is your information on this world?"
"Well roughly around 50 years."
"I hate to state the obvious, but alot could have happen since then. However we will deal with that when and if it happens. Based on what you have told me so far evil has a big advantage over good. It doesn't seem like we will have much support against Kalis followers coming after us. Let alone, and I pray this doesn't happen, Kalis himself."
"If you would allow me to finish I was only describing one side. Now I will explain the other."
"Alright then Edward get on with it. We have no idea how long it will take for them to track us here."
"Understood, now like most this world has those who defend it. From both outside and inside forces, more the latter. They go by diffent names and handle different situations depending on the danger level. Almost no magic is used in this enforcement but their technology makes up for it."
"Such as?"
"To save on time they have powerful weapons. Not really advanced as other worlds but enough to get by. Also there are magic users but they are largely persecuted. Therefore they would jump at the chance to use their powers in our fight."
"But would they be willingly to risk their lives?"
"As always that depends on the person themeselves and at the moment that is unknown. But these factors or minor considering the real reason I chose this place. Besides being short of time of course."
"Alright, so who are these powerful allies that we must seek in our fight againt Kalis forces?"
Edward kept silent for a moment and then usherd one word "Kel Tok".
That one word made the world go silent. Randor was moving his mouth but no words were coming out. He finally closed his mouth and took a big breath. Randor then opened his mouth only to be interuppted by Sarah who had remained quiet since their escape.
"Such a being exists on this world?" asked Sarah in astonishment.
Edward simply nodded.
"I heard master Ronda speak of them. But not even she had met one before. Are you absolutely sure one exists here?" asked Sarah in desperation.
Edward nodded again.
"Now wait a minute, this makes no since. If a Kel Tok really exists on this world then why do some many demons roam here?" said Randor finally getting his voice back.
Edward turned his head up and said nothing.
"Well?" said an impatient Randor.
"The answer to that is simple, she doesn't know she is one" finally said Edward.
"How the hell couldn't you know?!!The ability to destroy a city with a snap of your fingers should be a dead give away," said Randor outraged.
"How do you know that it is a girl?" asked Sarah calmly.
"I'll start with Randor's question. Firstly, and Kel Tok's power is greatly exaggerated in the rumors you have heard. Also the power of a Kel Tok varies depending on the person themselves as well as their experience. On this world there is a Kel Tok born for every new generation."
"That's insane, that would mean that this planet is filled with gods" said Randor.
"I wasn't finished yet. What I meant was that a New Kel Tok can only be born after the old one dies. Therefore there is only one Kel Tok at any given time here. Futhermore the only powers that they can tap into are increased strength, senses, healing, and a high ability to detect evil no matter what the form. In this world thay are called Slayers. I know it's a girl because only the female gender can become a slayer. They usualy receive this power between the ages of 15 and 20. It's a shame that their life expectancy isn't more than 2 to 3 years."
"What, but why?" said a nearly crying Sarah.
"Just think about it, just one girl to face the demons of the world. Not able to call upon outside help because she wouldn't be believed. Sure there are others that fight the good fight, but she is the front line. We all know when the front goes, the rest is soon to follow," said Edward.
"If she can only use those powers then what good is she to us? Those abilities might be special here, but the Elites would have no trouble destroying her," said Randor
"Again, you did not let me finish Randor."
"Then finish, I'm not waiting much longer Edward."
"Very well, I'll keep the explanation as short as possible. They can only tap into those powers because their minds haven't evolved enough to use their stronger ones. They haven't the concentration to summon or use their greater powers with. Thankfully, we can help them with this problem."
"We can, but how?" said Sarah.
"With my vast knowledge and your magic Sarah we can unleash the Kel Tok's, or slayer as she is called here, ultimate powers."
"But Ronda was the Sorceress, I am simply an apprentice. Won't it take substancial power to awaken this slayers ultimate powers?"
"Indeed it will, and as Ronda's apprentice you have that power."
"What, but..."
"Don't worry Sarah, when the time comes you'll know what to do. Also you will recognize the aura of the slayer and be able to point her out to us. That is why you must go with Randor when he goes out."
"That's unacceptable Edward, I work better alone. I would have to divide my attention by looking after her," said Randor.
"I believe you underestimate our young friend's power. Nevertheless this is not up for debate. As you have said repeatedly we have little time before Kalis forces track us here. We must find the slayer as soon as possible. Sarah is the quickest way to accomplish that task."
Randor wanted to protest, especially since his own argument was being used against him. Unfortunately he knew Edward was right and reluctantly nodded his head in agreement.
"Good, while you two are gone I will continue my researh of this planet. Hopefully I can find other things that would be helpful to our cause."
"You do that, and keep the chest hidden. It's time to get going Sarah. Also if you could perfom some kind of invisibility spell. I don't want to waste time fighting demons while we look for the slayer."
"I can, but it will only protect us from lowly demons. Those with heightened magic senses will detect us," said Sarah.
"Well let's hope we don't run into any of those then. See you later Edward, and watch yourself."
"You too, and one more thing. Don't tell the slayer she's a Kel Tok. Just give her a brief version of our situation and arrange a meeting. We must be careful how she finds out."
Randor didn't understand but nodded his head in agreement. He gripped his weapon and headed out of the crypt with Sarah right behind him.
"Good luck my friends, and may the guardians protect you," said Edward.
KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK
Suddenly the sounds of a man coming down some stairs was heard. As well as some muttered curses.
KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK
"I'm bloody well coming, don't get your knickers in a twist," said Giles as he reached the bottom of the stairs. He then finished closing his robe and opened the door. The sight that was before him was one that he expected.
Buffy, Willow, and Xander were standing at his door covered in dirt. Buffy was also bleeding from her shoulder but showed no discomfort. He usherd them in wearily but secretly happy that they were safe.
"Hey Giles, got any soda in the fridge?" asked Xander.
"Xander, don't be so rude" admonished Willow.
"You're right Will, we should get something to eat first" said Buffy.
Xander nodded his head in agreement while Willow shook her head in exasperation.
For Giles part it was too early in the morning for him to be amused.
"Not that I'm not happy about you all visting me" said Giles dryly "But is there a specific reason you chose to see me at 12:30 in the morning?"
"Besides a patrol update, something strange happen to me tonight" said a more serious Buffy.
All sleep disappered from Giles eyes and his posture straighten "What happen Buffy"?
Buffy proceeded to tell Giles what happen after she dusted her first two vampires of the night. She finished up with telling him of facing a few vampires afterwards, one in which scratched her shoulder. After she was done Giles went to his bookshelf.
"I think you were right in assuming it was something mystical. A slayer is highly sensative to magic around her and by your dsecription that is what occured. I'll of course look through my books for more information. Until then you should continue to be on guard. Some evil force may have arrived in Sunnydale."
"Great, as if Adam wasn't enough. I'm not sure I can handle another big bad Giles. I never felt anything like that before. There's no telling what kind of power this thing might have."
"That is only one possibility Buffy, there are numerous other things it could be. But since we are on the Hellmouth we can't be too careful. Now all of you return home, you still have school tomorrow," finished Giles.
Willow's eyes brightened while Xander and Buffy groaned. They left Giles house with his face in a book.
On another planet someone else was explaining their nights activities. The listener, like Giles, was concerned over the information he was hearing. Unlike Giles however, he gave no reaction once the report was finshed. He didn't need to, everyone in the room knew that he was furious.
Sirus worked to clear his throat silently as he awaited judgement. He eyes wondered everywhere but into the shadows in which Kalis surrounded himself in. He observed Tengo's, scantly clad servant girls from differnt worlds, 200 storm troppers, 50 artillary robots, and three Elites beside himself were present. The room itself was beyond extravagant. Crystal Chandeliers lighted the room and vast treasures from different worlds laid piled along the walls. Some stolen, some payment for 'protection'. The round dining room table to seat a 100 was in the middle. To the back of the room lay the throne. Very little could been seen of it because it was always in the dark.
Suddenly the entire throne room went dark. No one said a word. They knew that it was Kalis acting out his emotions. Seconds later light returned to the room. The sight that appeared surprised no one.
8 Tengo heads had been decapatated, 14 storm troopers chest were imploded, and four servent girls were gone without a trace. Sirus himself was missing his right hand. The pain was immese but Sirus showed none. To do so would result in further punishment, Kalis did not tolerate the weak.
Kalis fiery eyes slowly dimmed inside the shadows. Everyone knew he had calmed and was about to speak.
"I need not tell you how unsatisfactory this report is to me. Not only does your failure make you look like a imcompentent idiot. It makes me look bad that I chose you. Your fellow Elites accomplished their tasks with little trouble. Perhaps I was mistaken in choosing you as an Elite. But I don't make mistakes, do I Sirus?" said Kalis.
Sirus remained silent knowing he was not to answer. On the inside he was continuing to concentrate on blocking out the pain of his missing hand.
"Since I don't make mistakes, that must mean that you didn't make one. You must have allowed the rebels to escape on purpose. To make them believe that they got away from you. You must have a brilliant plan to explain all this. Plese enlighten us in on this plan Sirus."
Sirus quickly went through his mind trying to find an explanation. At the same time aware that the other Elites were enjoying his discomfort and fear. Unexpectantly Kalis saved him from further embarrasment.
"Only joking with you Sirus, you know how I like to joke" Kalis then started to laugh from the shadows which echoed throughout the entire room. The very sound could tear the flesh from bones. Everyone else in the room started to laugh as well including Sirus, though nervously.
Just as it started, Kalis stopped. Everyone in the room stopped laughing as well. The room was once again in complete silence.
"In preparation for me recieving the final artifact that will make me a god you decided to get me a present. A new planet to add to my empire. To make it more interesting you even involved a little cat and mouse. Us being the cat and the rebels being the mice. I am pleased you didn't forget how much I enjoy games," said Kalis.
Sirus was astonished, Kalis was making an excuse for him. They both knew that it was a lie. However he was giving him a second chance while at the same time making himself look good. Sirus actually started to smile at the moment. The smile disappeared when he felt a cold chill envelope his entire body.
Kalis voice went raw "Although I enjoy games, I want this one to end quickly. After I locate the rebels you will go there at once. Torture and kill who you must to retrieve the artifact. You shall have a small army and can aquire local help if needed. Bring back the artifact as well as the head of the strongest warrior of the planet. After which I will restore your hand and you will stand at my side as I conquer the universe. Now leave me, I will contact you when I locate the rebels location," finished Kalis.
Just as quickly the cold chill was gone. Kalis had used his powers to show Sirus he was far from forgiven. Sirus bowed his head and turned and left the throne room among the stares of the others.
Back on Earth, another person was already on their way to the artifact, though unknowingly. Faith was on her way to Sunnydale for only one reason, revenge.
Shortly after waking up Faith confronted the first two people she saw. Though she was far from full strength it was easy to subdue them. From them she was able to learn that she was in Arizona, specifally The Phoniex Institute of Medicine. It was a private hospital not open to the public. The Mayor had had her sent there in secret shortly beofore graduation had started. She also found out that he had mysteriously disappearred later that same day. It was no mystery to Faith, yet another reason to kill Buffy.
Orderlies had arrived to restrain her, but they too were no match for her slayer strength. Whatever power surge had awaken her had her a good dose of adrenaline. That combined with here rage made her an unstoppable force.
After securing the hospital staff, she didn't feel like killing them, she was able to find her clothes she had on that night. She also found a letter that turned out to be the mayor's will. It basically consisted of a key and directions to a lock box that had talismans he had obtained over the years. Also it explained after his death 27 million dollars were to be moved in to an account under the name Sarah Parker. Documents and identifaction had already been created to show that this person exsisted. What others didn't know was that Sarah and Faith were the same person. Even after her faliure and his death he still looked after her. She would make sure that she didn't fell him a second time.
After leaving the hospital she walked to the nearest pay phone. She called the bank and used her account number the mayor's documents gave her. The bank was happy to help a rich customer and offered to help her in any way. She asked to find the next flight to Sunnydale. After a couple of minutes the banker came online saying there weren't any flights to Sunnydale because it had no airport. However there was a flight to Los Angeles that left in two hours. Also they would assign a limo to pick her up and take her to Sunnydale from there. Faith refused and said she rather drive herself, preferbly a Jag. The banker followed her instructions and told her the tickets would be waiting for her at the airport under her name. Faith thanked the woman and hung up. After she got to Los Angeles her next step was Sunnydale, and the death of the blond bitch Buffy Summers.
"Lord Kalis requests your presence Elite Sirus," said one of Kalis many servants.
Sirus nodded his head and waved the woman away with his one good hand. The servant bowed and closed the door behind her.
Sirus didn't let it show how surprised he was by the summons. It had only been 14 hours since he had told Kalis of his failure. To find them that fast through hundreds of solar systems was an amazing feat. Sirus sometimes wondered why Kalis bothered to go after these artifacts at all. He could probably conquer the universe now if he wanted to.
Putting such thoughts aside he rose to meet his lord. He had replaced his hand with a fire shaped one. It didn't work as well as the real thing, but it would have to do.
This time when he stepped into Kalis's throne room it was not so crowded. In fact only ten Tengo's and two dozen storm troopers remained. Kalis as always was hidden in the shadows with only his red glowing eyes giving away his presence.
"I have found the world the artifact was taken to. I sense magic there but not in great length. Their main weapons lie in their machines. Therefore you should have little trouble there. These who you see before you will be more than enough to help you accomplish your task. You have exactly three days to complete your mission. If you are unable to retrieve the artifact in time don't bother to contact me. For to me, you will be dead," said Kalis.
With that blue magic shot out from the shadows and swirled around in front of Sirus. The energy suddenly formed into a portal.
Sirus merely bowed to Kalis and walked through the portal. The ten Tengo's and two dozen storm troopers right behind him. Once they were all through the portal closed. Kalis was now alone in his throne room, his thoughts known only to himself.
Back in Sunnydale the scooby gang was eating lunch with their on and off again member Riley Finn. As usual they had a table by themselves because the rest of the students considered them outcasts. They were used to it and paid the others no attention. At least most of them didn't. Riley was still getting use to the angry stares from his fellow commandos at their table. Although they would continue to follow his orders, they didn't show as much respect as they did before.
"Forget about them Riley, you will have plenty of time with them tonight. Right now you're mine, so concentrate on me," said Buffy.
Riley gave her a smalll smile and continued eating his lunch.
At that moment Buffy felt the same pain from last night and she fell out of her chair. Her friends rushed to her as the rest of the crowd looked on. Eventually Buffy calmed and her friends waved off the crowd. The crowd resumed their eating adding it up to the group being weird again.
As they slowly helped Buffy up she said "Get me to Giles" in a tired voice.
In the skies just across the border of California Faith too felt the pain and nearly ripped off her arm chair. The first class attendants tried to help but Faith waved them away. She then sat back up and let out a huge breath. Although she was thankful for being awaken, this had to stop. She had a feeling it had something to do with Sunnydale. After she killed Buffy she would find out what it was and take care of it.
Elsewhere underground in Intiative headquarters alarms went off for the second time in two days. The scientists worked hard to find the reason.
"Give me a report" said Captain Miller, new head of the Intiative as a result of Professor Walsh's death.
"It's the same energy signature as the one last night sir," said one of the scientist "We're trying to pin down the location now."
"Well hurry, you failed to do so last time. I wasted a patrol on this last night, make sure you're accurate this time," said Miller.
"The energy signature is stronger this time sir. I believe we can have a location for you in a few minutes."
"Good, fax them to me in the armory. I'll be arming the men I'm sending there," said captain Miller as he left the scientists.
In a cave not far away someone else's computer system was giving strange readings. The caves tunnels were filled with demons of all shapes and sizes. They were either sleeping, eating, talking, or just standing around. But none tried to harm each other. It was against Adam's law to kill a fellow demon. Despite their differences thay were all family, and family shouldn't fight.
Adam himself looked at the screen giving off the strange readings in quiet thought. His four lieutenants stood behind him but said nothing. As soon as the readings stopped Adam made one comment "Interesting."
The portal had just closed behind the last of the storm troppers and Sirus looked at his surroundings. It was day time and they seemed to be on a dirt road. In front of him was some kind of sign. He walked up to it and read "Welcome to Sunnydale".
"The artifact must be in this city. Let's go men, we only have three days. Tengo's take the lead, sniff out the strongest magic," said Sirus.
The Tengo's nodded their heads in understanding and walked ahead sniffing the air. Sirus followed behind them and the storm troopers behind him.
Giles was sipping his tea in the Magic Box when suddenly the door was hurringly opened. He looked up and saw his children with Buffy leaning on Riley.
He got up to examine her but she spoke first. "Giles it happen again, please tell me you found out what is causing this," said Buffy.
Giles sat back in his chair and rubbed his nose between his glasses. "I'm afraid not, the possibilties are far too numerous. I still need more information to come to the proper conclusion. Is there anything else you can tell me about these pains?"
"Not really, it just-"
Riley's pager going off interrupted Buffy from finishing. He checked the number and took out his cell phone. He called the number and waited for an answer.
"Finn here. Yes" a pause "when was this?" "Why wasn't I notified?" longer pause "I see, well he is the commanding officer. Thanks for the update Jeffries." He turned off the phone and turned to the others.
"Well" said an impatient Xander.
"That was Jeffries from Delta team. Apparently headquaters detected a huge energy spikes just outside of Sunnydale. Beta and Cobra team have been sent to investigate. Apparantly Alpha team is on probation because of its leader's loyality issues," finished Riley.
"This could be what's causing you this pain Buffy. We must check it out for ourselves," said Giles.
"The Intiative already has a big head start. You all should wait for their findings, then I tell you. Buffy shouldn't be fighting something in her condition anyway," said Riley.
"Knock it off Riley, there is nothing wrong with me. Just like the last time the pain is already gone," said Buffy.
"But it could come back again. I know you're tough but for once let somebody else do the foot work. I promise as soon as they report back I will tell you everything." He put his arm around Buffy "Just trust me on this, you don't have to be the hero all the time," said Riley.
Buffy was about to protest about Riley treating her like a baby again. Instead she kept her mouth closed and nodded her head in agreement. He did have a point, the commandoes had a head start and superior weapons. She would wait until they reported back and decide what to do from there. She just hoped it wasn't another Big Bad. She was struggling with Adam and his disciples as it is.
"Since that matter is settled you all need to return to class. Buffy, you will be missing the rest of your classes. I don't want you fainting in front of a group of people again, it could raise suspicion" said Giles.
"I have no problem with that, see you guys later." Xander and Willow said their goodbyes while Riley gave her a kiss and left as well.
"Seeing on how you're free from class for the rest of the day you can help me researh your dilemma" comment Giles.
Buffy lowerd her head and pouted "I knew there was a catch."
A few miles from the border of Sunnydale Beta team stopped in their tracks. Beta team leader checked his readings again.
"Signal indicates a large energy heading our way. ETA is three minutes, get in position. Beta team will hide in the bushes while Cobra team will cover us from the trees. Set guns to stun, base wants whatever this is alive and unharmed" finished Beta leader.
His team obeyed his commands and Cobra team leader lead his team into the trees. With their weapons charged they waited for the unknown.
Time passed by and nothing seemed to happen. Beta leader looked at his watch and noted that ten minutes had passed. He rechecked his energy scanner and confirmed the enemy should be in their sight. Yet still there was nothing, complete silence.
The silence was broken by a huge fireball slamming into one of the trees destroying it completely and killing the two Cobra team members that were there. The projectile was so fast that the Cobra team members had no time to react, their deaths were instant.
The other Cobra's looked to the burned tree while Beta team looked in the direction the huge fireball came from. So they too were surprised when Tengo demons popped out from the ground right behind them. Beta team was caught completly off guard and could offer little resistance. Three Beta's were dead in seconds and so would have the rest if Cobra team hadn't recovered.
Cobra team began to blast at the back of the Tengo's. Since the guns were only on stun the electricity only slowed them down. Luckily that proved enough of a distraction for Beta team to fight back.
Beta leader discarded his gun and took his knife fom his back. He sliced for the stunned demon's neck and green blood spilt out. He then followed up with a knife thrust where he thought its heart might be. More blood was spilled and the demon fell backwards. He wasted no time congratulating himself and looked around to see where he could help.
He was pleased to see that they had the demons in a two sided fight and were holding their own. That changed as another fireball destroyed another tree killing two more Cobra members. The two remaining Cobra members abandoned their tree and ran to assist Beta team on the ground. They were stopped by numerous laser blasts in the back that went through their armor like butter straight through the other side. The remaining Cobra members fell forward with their mouths open, dead.
Beta leader looked behind his downed comrades and saw a dozen armor clad people running up. They had what appeared to be laser rifles and square shaped helmets. They also had what appeared to be grenades hangering around their waists. Somehow they had come around them without being detected. The odds were now looking bad for his team.
Things only got worst as he turned back around to see another dozen closing in on them from the font. The box was complete, the commandoes were surrounded.
His teammates noticed this as well and followed procedure by backing up into each other forming a circle. The four Commandoes stayed in the circle weapons raised. They had managed to kill three of the yellow demons but now they were heavily outnumbered. The demons and the troopers kept them surrounded but made no move to attack. It seemed to the commandoes that they were waiting for something. If they were waiting for them to surrender they were in for a long wait. They were well trained and would do no such thing. They would fight to the bitter end. On a whim Beta leader switched on his communicator to send.
From the front the troopers started to open a path up the middle. Down the path came four more yellow demons folllowed by something else. It had a red glowing head with yellow eyes. It were some kind of robe with the same colors. His hands were red as well, although one seemed to be transparent and made completely out of fire. It was obvious from the way it carried itself that it was in charge.
"Ah, you must be the enforcers of this ugly world. Did you really think we would walk blindly into your trap? Still, you did manage to kill three Tengo demons. A pitiful effort, but an effort none the less. Now on this business, my name is Sirus and I want information," said Sirus.
"You'll get nothing from us, we don't betray our on," said Beta leader.
At this Sirus laugh "You misunderstand, I could care less about you and your worthless people. I want information on people who have recently arrived on your planet. Three to be precise, and they would have a small chest with them. Give me this information, and you will feel no pain" finished Sirus with an insincere smile.
The commandoes looked at each other with confused expressions. They had no idea what this guy was talking about. But if he was to be believed people from another planet had come to Earth. It would also mean that they were aliens as well. This was a remarkable discovery, Beta leader was glad he turned on his communicator. Headquaters had just heard all this and would be shocked.
"As I said before you will get nothing from us. Now either fight or leave," said Beta leader.
Sirus continued to stare at them but said nothing.
The commandoes kept their weapons steady waiting for someone to make the first move.
Sirus obliged them by quickly raising his hands and and fire shot out. A ring of fire swirled around the commandoes and burned their guns to crisp.
Sirus smiled "I'm so glad you decided to make this difficult. I have a lot of frustration I need to get out and you'll do nicely. FIRE OF TORMENT!!"
The ring of fire suddenly turned into a wall of fire. The fire wall seemed to rise 20 feet in the air keeping the commandoes trapped inside. Inside of the wall the heat rose off five hundred degrees. The commanders armor offered them no protection, it fact it made the heat even worse. Their skin started to smelt oozing down their bodies. Blood vessled popped everywhere sending blood flying in all directions. No amount of training could have prepared them for this and they tried to scream. Unfortunately their lungs had long since been torn apart. Even if they hadn't there was no longer a mouth for the sounds to come out of. What made things even worse is that all their senses were still intact. They could see the fire leaving them no escape, hear their bones breaking, smell their rotting flesh, taste the bile running down their throats, and feel their body being turned inside out. If anything their senses had been heightened. The attack was truly without mercy.
30 seconds later the fire wall disappeared only leaving ashes in its wake. Sirus walked up to the ashes and bended down. He wiped some ash with his finger and licked it off. Through the ashes he now had every memory the person had until their death, including the death itself. Sirus smiled at that memory but frowned at the rest. The people did not know about the rebels. However they did have a base with advanced technology that might have. Sirus decided that would be his next stop. He stood back up to tell his men, and stopped at the sight before him.
Straight ahead were a variety of demons. In front of them stood a giant. His body was different shades of color and armor. His very being radiated strength. Sirus would have recognized him as a leader anywhere.
"Greetings, I see I am not the first to welcome you. It would also appear you had some kind of disagreement. I trust we will have no such problem," said Adam.
The troppers and Tengo's prepared to attack but were stopped by a raised hand. Something about this creature interested Sirus, he wanted to know more.
"That all depends on you my friend. Give me what I want and there will be no problems. If you do not, a similar fate awaits you and your so-called army" said Sirus showing that he was in charge here.
"Ah, a threat of some kind. There is no need for such things, we can help each other. You are new to this world and need a guide. I can provide this, as well as helpers as you see before you. I have many more, we are all a family. I only ask in return your help with a problem of mine," said Adam.
"What kind of problem might that be," said an interested Sirus.
"There are those who wish to stop me from making this world better. They prosecute me and my kind calling us monsters. I wish to change this and give my family equal rights. Help me remove the strongest of our oppressors, and my family will be at your disposal," finsished Adam.
Sirus considerd everything the demon said. It would certainly help to have someone with knowledge of this world to guide him. Also Kalis did say he could recruit local help if needed. He doubted he needed it but having more people on his side couldn't hurt. He decided to team with this creature and his family, for now. If he proved unuseful or annoying he would simply destroy him.
"Very well creature, I will accept your offer," said Sirus while walking forward, his army walking close behind. "However be warned, I cannot stay on this planet for more than three days. If you are agreeable to this we have a deal." Sirus stopped in his tracks and held his hand out to the demon leader.
"That is acceptable, and you may call me Adam" Adam shook his hand and the deal was made.
Faith roamed the streets of L.A. looking for any kind of action. After departing from the airport the car was just where she requested it to be. However insted of going straight to Sunnydale she decided to hang around for a while. Mainly stretching her long unused muscles as well as getting some weapons. The latter would have to wait until it got dark so she wouldn't raise any suspicions. It would delay her reaching Sunnydale but she decided it was worth the risk.
She checked into a nice hotel a little over an hour ago. A big step up from her home in Boston and the decaying motel in Sunnydale. Despite her new name she paid for everything in cash. She had no intention of letting the council know she was awake or where she was. It would be a couple hours before sunset so excersing her muscles walking was what she was doing now. Also she was on the lookout for any humans who might want to rough up an innocent girl such as herself. Beating them up wouldn't be as fun as slaying demons, but it would have to do. She hadn't had a rumble in months and deeply missed the thrill.
Faith was currently walking down a particular disgusting part of the neigborhood. The walls were painted with graffiti and trash cans were thrown all over the street. The were also some gangs hangering around, but unfortunally none had approached her yet. Faith was starting to think about starting a fight herself. Buffy never got that, she always felt humans should be off limits to slayers. But she wasn't here now, no one could hold Faith back anymore.
Suddenly Faith's hypersenative sense of smell detected smoke. She looked to her left and saw smoke coming out of a building. Also she noticed some teenagers were running out the building trying to escape the smoke. Faith took her eyes off them when out of nowhere a van came down the street. The van came to a halt in front of the smoking building and two people jumped out the back of the van wearing grey protective suits. Despite the suits hiding those underneath Faith's slayer senses instantly told her they were vampires. As she continued to watch they grabbed a young black girl and dragged her back to the van. Another black youth came from the building and ran straight towards the van.
Faith may have wanted Buffy dead, but she was still a vampire slayer. No one would be turned or killed while she was around. Faith ran toward the front of the van as it started to take off. Even with the regeneration talisman the Mayor had left her she still wasn't 100 percent. But she was strong enough to get ahead of the van.
Faith jumped on the hood of the van and was face to face with the driver. Faith put her fist through the tinted glass and grabbed the vampire by the neck. Sunlight was now flowing through the van and the vampires in the back covered their faces and stopped biting the girl. Faith pulled out the driver and sent him flying in the street. He too had on protective gear from the sunlight, but it did nothing to protect his body from hitting the pavement at such force.
Faith then climed into the van not caring about the broken glass. By the time she stood up in the van the vampires were recovering from their surprise. One tried to attack her, only to have his head bashed into the wall. Two other vampires tried to tackle her but Faith gave them a double drop kick and sent them flying out the back of the van. The only vampire still standing knew he wasn't a match for her and ran out the back of the van. Faith then turned her attention to the girl. She was bleeding some, but would survive. The girl's eyes were wide looking up at Faith, probably wondering how she did all that. Faith smirked down at the girl and offered her a hand. The girl rose her hand but Faith withdrew hers.
The vampires head she had smashed had gotten back up and tried a sneak attack from behind. But he wasn't fast enough as Faith gave him a back elbow. As the vampire stammered backwards Faith followed up by turning around and giving him a roundhouse kick to his already bruised skull. The vampire slamed into the other wall and fell to the ground not moving. Faith didn't have a stake so she stopped to think what to do next. She was saved the trouble as the girl crawled over to the downed vampire and staked him in the heart. In seconds the vampire was dust. Faith looked at the girl in both surprise and admiration.
"Way to go girl, got any more on you?" asked Faith.
The girl rubbed her neck where the bite marks were "Sure do, but would you mind explaining just who you are?" said the girl.
"Just someone who isn't a fan of demons. By the way, you can call me Faith. Now if you would give me a stake I can go finish the ones that I knocked outside" Faith said while holding out her hand.
The girl gave her a spare stake "No problem, and the names Jessica. But I think my brother and his crew have beat you to it," she said.
Faith took the stake and looked out the back of the van. She was surprised to see a group of boys and girls finishing off the vampires she had tossed out. She then rememberd the driver and turned back around. The vampire was just now trying to stand up. Faith saw the keys still in the ignition and had a great idea. She got into the drivers seat and started the van back up.
"Hold on J, we're about to play vamp bumper car" said Faith. She put her foot on the gas and went straight towards the vampire. Jessica leaned on the wall so she wouldn't fall out the van.
The vampire was still dazed and didn't hear the van until it was all most to him. He turned his head but was too late as the van rammed right into his back sending him flying forward ten feet. The vampire screamed out in pain as he felt several ribs break. He attempted to stand but was unable to as the front tire rolled onto his back and stopped. He felt his spleen being broken in two but could do nothing to move the huge wait. He just continued to scream and banged his fists against the pavement in unbearable pain.
Faith turned off the car and turned around toward Jessica "Hell of a ride J, although it was a little too short for my liking."
Jessica grabbed her chest and tried to slow her breathing "You're a psyco, you know that."
Faith's eyes went temporarily dark "The psyco just saved your pretty little ass," then her eyes went back to normal. "Anyway you want the honors of finishing him, or should I?"
Jessica was amazed by the girl's change in character. She was stopped from answering by her brother coming through the back door.
"Jessica, are you okay?!!" said the man as he hugged his sister.
"I'm fine Gunn, thanks to her" breaking the hug and pointing to Faith. Faith for her part had erased all emotion from her face and appeared to be studying them closley.
Gunn also studying her not knowing what to make of the girl. He had never seen her before and knew nothing abour her. Well that was really true. He knew that he couldn't catch the van and nearly went into tears over his loss sister. He also knew the vamp had stopped and seconds later vampires went flying out of it. Including one who ran out of his own free will as if he was scared of that was inside. He and his crew has easily killed the already hurt and frightened vampires. He then saw the car go off again only to stop again. Lastly he knew that after finally reaching the van the only occupants were his sister and some girl. He knew his sister was a fighter but nowhere good enough to fight that many on her own. That left only the girl as the one who did it. He didn't understand how, but decided it wasn't as important as his sister's safety.
"As my sister said the names Gunn" he said while offering his hand "and I'm in your debt for saving my sister. If there's anything I can do for you just ask," finished Gunn.
Faith looked at his hand for a few seconds before she finally grabbed it "I'll be sure to take you up on that offer. I sure you have questions, and the best person to answer that is outside." With that she let go of his hand and walked out the back.
The siblings looked at each other for a moment before following her.
Once outside they noticed that the rest of the gang had caught up with them. They were happy to see Jessica alive and told her so as well as a few giving her hugs. The crew then turned their attention to the other girl who came out the van. They looked to Gunn who simply waved the questions away. They followed the girl the the front of the van where another vampire was under the wheel.
Faith bended down to the vampire and spoke so everyone could hear. "Alright buddy, it's time for a litttle Q and A. Depending on your answers I'll decide how long I'll let you suffer under there before I end your pain, permanently."
The vampire used all his strength to answer her through clenched teeth. "What kind of deal is that. You'll have to do better than -"
He was cut off as Faith brought her foot down on his right thumb. The thumb shattered and the vampire howled in pain.
"Let's get something straight right now. This is my game and I make the rules. Which means I also make the punishments if you break the rules. In this case it's breaking a finger everytime you don't answer correctly or try to back talk me. If we run out of fingers I'll start on your toes. In the event we run out of those I'll start to get creative. I trust we understand each other better now," finished Faith calmly.
To this the vampire simply nodded his head in consent as tears streamed down his face. The others looked on in a mixture of horror and approval. Whoever this girl was she was okay in their book.
"Good, now first question, what is the location of your nest?" As she asked the question she held his right index finger in her head further demonstrating what would happen if he gave the wrong answer.
The vampire just wanted the pain to stop and told her. She then asked if he knew of any other nests and he answered that as well. Faith had a few other questions and the vampire answered them all promptly.
"You're doing very good, now I have only one question left. Although in answering I want you to give a complete descrition and background, understand?" said Faith.
The vampire nodded that he did.
"Alright, I want you to tell everyone what a slayer is," said Faith.
At first the vampire looked confused at the question. Then a light bulb seem to light over his head as he looked straight at Faith with wide eyes.
"You mean you're the ..." He stopped not able to complete what should have been obvious.
"You got it, I'm the slayer. Now while both you and I know what that is these people don't. Since I don't feel like telling it you're going too. Now don't leave anything out, or" she looked down at his fingers in her hand.
The vampire understood the reference and told the group everything he knew about slayers.
By the time he was finished everyone remained silent. To say the group was stunned would be a massive understatement. There were those who doubted the truth of it but looking back on today's events made the explanation seem more plausible. Also it only took one look into the girl's eyes to see the power that lay there. Not to mention the danger if you ever crossed her.
Faith smirked at their expressions and turned her attention back to the vampire. "Nicely done, some of those things I didn't even know about. You did your part so I'll do mine. I won't toture you anymore and will put you out of your misery."
The vampire sighed in relief and awaited his trip to permanent darkness.
"Of course, if any of these kind people want to continue where I left all that would be different. I have no control over what they do."
The vampires head shot up and he looked at her in disbelief.
"Don't worry, a promise is a promise. No matter what I'll make sure none of them kill you. I will be the only one to do that," said Faith. She then stood back up and walked through the crowd that gave her plenty of space.
The crowd then turned their attention to the vampire. As they moved towards him tears fell down his face rapidly. Except these weren't from any physical pain. These tears were from the knowledge he would receive the biggest ass wooping in history.
After the gang had their fun with the vampires and Faith dusted him they went to the nest. They had gotten more weapons from the hideout on the way. Predictably the vampires were caught unaware and killed rather quickly. Gunn and his crew were also amazed at the way Faith fought. The speed and strength she used against the vampires nearly made their tongues fall out. They hit a few other nests as well before they called it a night. There were some injuries but no deaths. Once they returned home Gunn showed Faith around and told him how he and his crew protected his neighbourhood from the demon population.
"Quite a set up Gunn, you guys really work hard here. Not only acting as the police but also giving food to those who need it. If you weren't a bunch of crazy bastards I would call you saints," said Faith.
To this Gunn laughed and showed her the rest of the place. The place Faith found most appealing was the armory. It seemed her search for weapons would be easier than she thought. She began examining some of them and reminded Gunn saying he owned her. But he insisted she take anything she wanted and it wouldn't count towards the debt. Faith saw no reason to argue with him and took the weapons she wanted. Mostly stakes and a crossbow with extra arrows. She also took some flash bombs and holy water bottles.
"Well it was fun Gunn, but it's time for me to head out now" said Faith.
"I understand, won't say I'm happy about it though. Thanks to you we did some serious damage to the vampire community today. Not to mention nobody, including my sister. If you ever come this away again look us up. Don't hesitate to call in that favor for anything, anytime." Finished Gunn as he held out his hand.
Faith took it and gave him a firm handshake. Before she could say anything that was a ruckus in the main room. Both Faith and Gunn immediately ran back there to see what was going on. When they arrived both had different reactions. Gunn's reaction was in annoyance, while Faith's was total surprise. Standing before them was Angel.
Angel heard them run in and turned in their direction. He did a double take when he saw that one of the new arrivals was Faith.
"Faith, where did you come from?!! when did you wake up from your coma? Does Buffy know you're awake?" asked Angel in total surprise.
Faith regained her bearings and looked at him calmly. "Nice to see you too dead boy. In answer to your questions the hospital, yesterday, and as far as Buffy" Faith paused for effect "she doesn't know yet. But she will when I slice her throat."
When she said this everyone looked at her. Besides Angel no one else knew who this Buffy was. But by Faith's bitter tone they knew she was Faith's enemy. Considering what the girl did to her enemies, this Buffy was in serious trouble.
At the mention of killing Buffy Angel morphed into vampire mode. "I can't let you do that Faith. Revenge is not the answer. Buffy did what she had to do."
"Shut your mouth Angel. Your Holy Buffy didn't have to kill me to feed to her vampire lap dog. You all condemn me when I killed a person but for Buffy it was necessary. I'm tired of hearing that shit. I didn't plan on chasing you that to later, but fate seems to want me to do it now." With that she took out a stake and charged Angel.
Angel immediately got into a fighting stance. Faith swung with a right hand to his face that he blocked. He then tried to hook her arm but she withdrew it too quickly. Faith then tried a leg sweep which Angel jumped over. But he wasn't prepared for a second leg sweep by her other leg and he fell backwards. On his back he immediately rolled to the side and jumped back up. Only to meet a foot in the gut. Grabing his stomach on instinct he left himself open and Faith took advantage with three punches to the face. At the fourth punch Andel ducked under her fist and gave her a uppercut to the chin. Faith stumbled back but stayed on her feet. Angel tried to follow it up with a spin kick but Faith backed up and caught his leg. Holding onto his leg she started to spin him around. Angel was helpless to stop her and he swung in the air in circles. Getting dizzy herself Faith released him and he went crashing into a wall. Unlucky for Angel his left shoulder hit first and he dislocated it. He struggled to stand back up on the look out for Faith's next attack. To his surprise she was down on one knee breathing hard. To Faith's credit she still wasn't hundred percent and was tired from destroying the vamp nests earlier.
Angel took this chance to pop his shoulder back in place. It was painful but at least he could still use his left arm. He started to advance on her when an arrow picered his waist. He stopped and looked where the arrow came from. He saw that it was from the black girl he saved yesterday. He was about to ask why until all air left his lungs. He made a crucial error in taking his eyes off Faith and paid for it. She had recovered from her fatigue and gave his and uppercut into his stomach. Not giving him time to retaliate she grabbed the back of his head and brought it down on her knee. Blood flowed from Angel's now broken nose. However Faith didn't stop at doing it once. She brought his head down numerous times on her knee until his body finally went limp. She did dropped him and he fell face first to the ground. Faith then fell backwards grabbing her heart trying to take in some air. The fight was over, Faith was victorious.
Gunn's crew looked on in complete amazement. None had interfered because they felt they would only get in the way. It was obviously a personal matter between these two. Although when Faith went to one knee some starting to move forward. They stopped when Jessica hit the vampire with an arrow. After that the savage beating Faith relased upon the vampire stunned them all. When it was finally over none were sure what to say.
After what seemed like hours to Faith she started to rise. Beating the crap out of Angel had really taken it out of her. She then took a stake from her back pocket and prepared to finish the vampire once and for all.
"Faith!!" yelled Jessica.
Faith turned in her direction. "Thanks for the help J, I'll finish it from here" she did bent down over Angel and raised her stake.
"No, don't. He saved my life too and I owe him. I don't know what's between you too but please put it on hold. Just don't kill him this time. Just as I owe you I owe him as well, vampire or not. Just this once Faith let him live, I beg you," said Jessica.
Faith didn't turn in Jessica's direction and kept the stake over Angel's heart. No one moved or said a word waiting for her direction. Finally Faith let out a breath and stood back up. She put the stake back in her pocket and turned to face Jessica.
"For you J, he gets a pass. But just this once you hear me. Next time we meet I'll finish him."
Jessica nodded.
"Until then I need him tied up some where. I don't need him warning the next person on my list."
"Don't worry about it" said Gunn "we got a metal safe we can keep him in."
"Okay, since that settled I'm going to take a nap. I be out of here only morning so you can release him the day after tomorrow. By that time it won't matter what he has to say." Faith then turned and heading towards the resting area.
"Alright crew, chain him up and put him in a safe. I want two to stand guard at all time until we let him go. The rest of you hit the sack, you earned," said Gunn.
Everyone nodded and did what he said. Angel was dragged away by three guys and put into a metal safe. While the rest went to bed having mixed thoughts about their new friend. All were think one thing though, none of them would ever get on her bad side.
The sun had just gone down, and all hell was about to break loose. Adam's family started to come out of their caves as well as Sirus' servants. Adam stayed behind so he could coordinate the attacks. Sirus himself would be going on a solo mission. By the time the sun rose Sunnydale would never be the same again.
The attacks began on boulder street. The combined army consisted of 4 Tengos, 9 stormstroopers, 14 vampires, 5 Polgara demons which long spears came out of their wrists, 8 Hirath demons that spit out a green goo that paralyses, and two Spinarack demons that were over grown spiders that could shoot webs. They walked down the street with confidence and determination. For Adam's family they were glad to get out of the cave and show their power in full force. For Sirus' group it was just another job, they knew they were superior.
The group stopped in the middle of the street and broke off into smaller groups toward the houses.
The Simpson family had been living in Sunnydale for three years. They knew something was wrong with the town but not what. The mysterious deaths bothered them but they had no where else to go. Sunnydale property was very cheap, it ws the only place they could afford to live. The few friends they made were still alive and for that they were happy. They had no idea that their happy times were coming to an end.
They were interupted watching TV by the sounds of their door be blasted to rubble. They turned their heads to see two heavily armored people running in where their door used to be. They found themselves with weapons pointed right at them. The Simpsons were shocked into stillness and had no idea what to do. They were even more shocked of sounds of someone breaking into their back door. From the back came a blue-green demon with pincer teeth and three eyes. Before the couple could react it spit out a green goo at both of them. Once it hit them it was absorbed into their skin. The Simpsons started to panic but didn't move because the pair of guns were still trained on them. Seconds later they couldn't move at all. They could only watch paralysed as one of the gun men turned and told someone outside to come in. The person who came in would have looked human except for his disfigured face, yellow eyes, and two very pointy front teeth. The man walked over to them and put their motionless bodies over each shoulder. He then walked out the door with the rest right behind him.
At another house a family of four and expecting another was sitting down to dinner. They stopped eating because of loud sounds coming from the chimney. Soot started flying out of the fireplace followed by a 4 foot 120 pound spider. The family screamed in horror as the spider shot webs out of its mouth. It trapped them all in a net except for the six year old boy who managed to run away. He was stopped in his tracks by a Polgara demon kicking down the front door. The boy screamed again and ran for the stairs. He was inches from the front step when a spear went through his back. The boys screams were cut off as his lungs were severed. Blood flowed from the boy's mouth while his eyes went to the back of his head as his body went limp.
The family screamed in horror at the sight as tears ran down their faces. They screamed even louder as the Polgara demon retracted its spear and the boy fell face first to the ground motionless.
A stormtropper came through the doorway and looked at the scene. "You idiot, we were suppose to take them all alive," said the tropper.
The Polgara demon growled at him "He ran, might have escaped. Only human, life not important."
The stormtropper shook his head in disgust. "We are to follow orders. We don't have time for this. Grab the others and lets get out of here." He then walked back out the door.
The demon growled again and went over to the people trapped in the net. He grabbed the end and slung the net over his shoulder. He then walked toward the front door but stopped in front of the boy's body. He then kicked the boy sending his limp body into the wall. The force caused many bones to break in the boy's small body that could easily be heard. The famly screamed in horror again and tried to reach the boy's broken body through the net. Of course they couldn't reach him and were dragged out of their home.
Everywhere on the street there were similar break ins and kidnappings. The people put up little resistance and no demons or soldiers were killed. The only casulty was a bullet hole in the arm of a Girath demon from a man that had managed to reach his gun. The Girath demons arm would be healed in a couple of days.
At the end ten homes had been raided. 23 adults and ll children had been taken. The entire operation only took three minutes. Other neigbours had heard the noises and called the police. But by the time the police arrived the demons would be long gone with their hostages. The mission had been a complete success except for the one death. One might wonder where the slayer and her friends were during all of this. The answer was that Adam had provided the Scooby gang with a distraction.
Buffy had a hard time remembering when the demons had been so relentless. As she dodged another punch she started to wonder why she even bothered to come out tonight. So far she had only killed four vampires and a sloth demon. Yet there was still more. Each of her frineds were fighting a group of demons themselves. Even with the Scooby gang out in full force it was still tough going. Riley was off with the commandoes finding out what happen to Beta and Cobra team. Other teams were out searching as well. She wished they could be here to help them now.
A Fong demon suddenly hit her in the face with its meaty fist. The demon's hands were like iron and were very strong. Therefore it came as no surpise to Buffy that she found herself flying a good five feet backwards. Somehow she was able to stay on her feet and backfliped over two vampires diving at her from both sides. Their heads collided and they hit the ground hard. The Fong demon began to advance on her when and arrow hit it in the side of the head. Its eyes rolled back and it fell backwards dead. Buffy then quickly staked the two vampires before they could recover. She then looked around to see where they stood. She saw that Giles was responsible for the Fong's death. Also that the demons who had been fighting her friends had all disappeared. Buffy had a hard time accepting her friends had killed all their opponents.
Her friends looked around as well and noticed that they were alone. The walked toward Buffy keeping their guard up as she did the same.
"Not that I'm not glad you guys are alright, but how exactly did you beat them?" asked a confused Buffy.
"That's an easy answer Buff, we didn't" said Xander as if it was the simplest answer in the world.
"Huh?"
"What Xander means Buffy is the demons simply ran away. We were barely holding them off when they just stopped. No last words or explanations, quite strange behavior actually," said Giles.
"I agree with Giles Buffy, they were winning. Another minute and we would have been dead," contributed Willow.
They alll seem to sober at that statement and remained silent.
"I don't like this, this whole situation stinks. Adam must be up to something. The demons have never attacked like that before. They kept all of us in one area the entire time. Every time I tried to create some space they crowded me. Whatever Adams up to I want to know what it is," finished Buffy.
Further discussion was halted by the sounds of many police sirens. Even more disturbing is that they all sounded like they were going in the same direction.
"I have a feeling if we follow those sirens we will find out what this is all about," said Buffy. Just as she finished talking she ran off towards the sirens.
"I suggest we follow her" said Giles as he ran to catch up with his slayer. Willow and Xander nodded their heads and took off as well.
Of course Buffy reached the sirens long before her friends did. There were people crowded around everywhere and she pushed her way through to get closer in order to find out what happen. Eventually she worked her way to the police tape. This was the most police cars Buffy had ever seen since she arrived in Sunnydale. Sometimes she wondered if they existed at all.
Although she couldn't get any closer she used her heightened sight and hearing to determine what was going on. She centered her senses on two policemen interviewing a woman in a bath robe.
"It's just like I told the others. A bunch of people in moster costumes raided the homes. I called you as soon as I saw them out my window. I wanted to help those poor people but there was just too many of them. Also some of them had some bug guns. Even weirder is that as quick as they came, they were gone. All those poor people. This isn't the first time people have disappeared in Sunnydale. You people aren't doing your jobs, you have to put a stop to this," said the woman.
"We will do everything we can mamm. The best way for us to do our job is for you to help us. Now please go over your story again, slowly so you won't leave anything out," said the policeman returning his attention to his notepad.
The woman rolled her eyes and began her story again. However Buffy was no longer listening as she had heard everything she needed to hear. She knew that they weren't people in costumes, they were real demons. Adam had set her up big time. He sent those demons to keep her occupied while his family broke into those homes and kidnapped people. But it made no sense, why simply kidnap them. She was glad they were still alive, she just couldn't understand why.
She paused in her thoughts when she noticed the chief of police. She knew his name was Sanders but not too much else. He seemed fairly competent, he was just in a difficult situation. No police training could have prepared him for the real life monsters in this town. She homed in her senses on him because he appeared to be in an animated conversation which a patrolmen.
"Dammit, what do you mean there are no good fingerprints?!!" said the chief.
"Just what I said Chief. All the prints look nothing like humans. Best we can do is contact all the costume makers in town. Compare what was purchased or stolen and then then try to match it to the prints we found here."
"That is completely unacceptable. We have over 30 kidnappings here and around 20 on another street. Not to mention a dead child who looks like a sword was put through him and then thrown against a wall like a rag doll."
At this information Buffy's blood went cold. Not only had another neigborhood been attacked but there had been a death. Not only that, it was a little boy. By the sounds of it it had been a very painful death. Buffy clenched her teeth and tightened her fists. Adam had gone way over the line. Buffy no longer cared what it took. She would save those people, and Adam and his entire family would die.
Something in the back of Buffy's mind made her look further across the street. There in the shadows she could just make out the commandoes. They too had failed in their duties tonight. The sight of them enraged Buffy even further. She knew that they couldn't be everywhere at once. But it was their fault that Adam had been created. He started all of this, and Buffy would make sure that she finished it. She turned around and walked back through the crowd to find her friends.
When she got away from the crowd she saw that her friends were just running up. She had forgotten just how much faster she was than them. Xander was the first to reach her. Followed closely by Willow, and finally Giles bringing up the rear.
"Not so fast next time Buff. Don't forget that some of us are only mortals," said Xander. Xander's cherry visage diappeared when he noticed Buffy's serious expression.
"Buffy what happen" said Willow "why are all these people here?"
Buffy slowly revealed all she heard and seen. By the time she was finished her friends were speechless. Adam had finally made his move, and it was a big one.
"My god, there has never been such a thing attempted in history. Demons have never coordinated such an attack on the human public. They have always worked in stealth except for a rogue few. We must put a stop to this Buffy. If more demons hear of this and join Adam's army the results would be disastrous. There would be no need to open the Hellmouth. An unstoppable army of darkness could be created on Earth itself," said Giles with a tremor in his voice.
All remianed silent at that thought. Before Giles said it they had no idea just how bad things really were.
They were brought out of their thoughts by the sounds of a honking horn. The turned in the direction of the horn and saw three bikers. One of the men took of his helmet to reveal a vampire undernearth. He then smiled and used his fingers in a come here gesture. He then put the helmet back on and rode off with his two buddies.
Buffy's eyes went dark and she wasted no time in chasing after them. Once again her friends had no choice but to try and keep up.
Elsewhere at Initiative headquaters they were receiving details from their field teams on the kidnappings. They too knew they weren't people wearing costumes. Captain Miller quickly went through options of a course of action in his head. After coming to a solution he turned the radio on to transmit to all field teams.
"Listen up men, this is Captain Miller. All scheduled patrols are offically terminated. You will concentrate all your attention toward the kidnappings. Start form the neigborhoods as your central point and work your way outward. No one comes in until the people are found."
"With all due respect sir, I don't think that is wise. Yes the kidnappings are important. But that doesn't mean we should leave other areas vulnerable to -"
"That's enough Agent Finn. I gave you a direct order and I expect it to be followed. Or was I mistaken in putting you and your team back on active duty?" said Miller.
There was a pause on the other line. "No, you were not mistaken sir. Kidnapping main priority, over and out" Finn ended the signal.
Miller nodded to himself and closed the signal on his end. Despite his calm exterior on the inside he was worried. This happening so soon after the apparent death of two teams by an alien force seemed too coincidental. The teams he had sent out to meet this new threat had to now be redirected. As it was besides base secruity he only had two field teams left. If he didn't start making progress soon the Initiative would be declared obselete. He knew more than anyone else that meant more than just shutting down the program. It also meant destroying all evidence that it ever existed, including the people associated with it.
Captain Miller was brought out of his thoughts by alarms going off.
"What's going on, another energy spike?" asked Miller.
"No sir" said one of the technicians "It's the base perimeter sensors, something -"
He never finished that statement as a huge fireball crashed through the ceiling. Wires and floor boards flew everywhere as people ran for cover. Captain Miller himself was stunned motionless. As he continued to look the fire disapated and a being was in its place.
"Nice place you got here, mind if I destroy it?" asked Sirus as he raised a hand and let loose a fireball. The blast destroyed the exam tables. "In case you haven't figured it out, I'm Sirus. I incinerated your men and you're next." Sirus then started walking toward the main computer.
This act shook Miller from his paralysis and he took out his pistol. He fired at Sirus but they had no effect. Finally secruity had recovered and reorganized itself and began to blast Sirus with machine gun fire as well as electric shocks. Still it didn't seemm to slow Sirus in the least.
Sirus stopped at the computer and took a floppy disk out from his inside pocket. He then deposited it in the slot that Adam had described to him. That finished he turned back around to continue his fun. Sirus raised both arms and laughed insanely as his flames turned the commandoes into ash.
Miller could only watch in hopeless terror as his men were murdered before his eyes. He also saw Sirus put some disk in the main computer. He didn't know what it was but he knew he had to stop it. He took a grenade out, removed the pin, and launched it at the computer. It was stopped from reaching its destination by Sirus catching it with his left hand. The grenade was swallowed in his hands flames and rendered useless. He then looked straight at Miller. For the first time in years Miller felt true fear.
Miller ran in the direction of his office. The only option left was to use the computer there. It could override any of the main computers commands. Also since this guy seem to be made of fire if he could get the sprinkler system working it might slow the guy down. He didn't know if he could make it but he would try.
Back at the cave Adam was receiving the signal from the disk. Not only was it sending him all the Intiatives information, but he now had complete control of the facility. First, he turned off all the control chips in the demons. Next he cut all power to the holding cells. Soon more of his family would be free. Also the hostages would be arriving soon. He was very fortunate to meet Sirus. Soon the slayer and her opressors would be dealt with, permanently.
The secruity guards watching the cells were confused on what to do. They knew the base was under attack. But they couldn't leave the prisoners unguarded. Some of them hadn't had their chips put in yet. That desicion was taken away from them as the cells energy fields suddenly went dead.
The demons saw their chance and stormed out of their cells. The guards fired on them and got a few. But with most of the field teams out and other security occupied they were heavily outnumbered. The fight was over in under a minute. The demons didn't stop there though. They wanted revenge for their capture, and would not leave until they had it.
Captain Miller didn't know how he made it, but he did. He closed and then locked his office door. He then ran to his chair and logged on his computer. He tried to bring up main Initative systems but found that he was blocked out. He tried other systems but found the same problem. He was able to tell that all the demons had been released. He started to panic not knowing what to do. It didn't help that he could hear the screams of his men outside the door. He knew the Initiative was finished. Normal protocal would be to program the self-destruct. Unfortunally that too what blocked from his access. He failed his men and his government, there was only one thing left to do. He changed his gun clip as he heard his door being banged on. He put his gun to his head with one hand and saluted with the other. Just as the door was broken down Miller pulled the trigger and everything went dark.
Sirus surveyed the demons finshing off the commandoes with faint interest. It was far too easy. Now he needed to move to the next phase. Sirus started to throw random fireballs above the demons heads to get their atttention. It worked and they stopped what they were doing to look at him.
"Listen up you freaks, and listen good. I'm the reason for your early release. You now work for me and the infamous Adam you've heard of. Follow what I say, or your fates will be the same as this base," finished Sirus.
The demons grunted at each other and shrugged their shoulders. A vampire stepped forward to speak.
"If you work with Adam we are yours. The commandoes feared him and his army. We want to join his army and take our place as kings," the others nodded in agreement.
"Good, now that that's settled lets get out of here. The night activities aren't over yet" said Sirus.
Buffy and the gang finally came to the end of their journey in a cemetary. As expected Adam was waiting there with some of his family.
"Do not bother to fight slayer, you would not be successful. As you have probably concluded we have many people hostage, 57 to be exact. They are presently alive, whether they remain that way is up to you."
"What do you want Adam" said Buffy no longer able to keep quiet.
"Actually it's more of what I want slayer" said a voice from behind her.
Buffy and the gang turned around to see some flame guy with flasy clothes before them. They also noticed the groups of demons behind him.
"To for stall your questions slayer my name is Sirus and it is I who require your assistance. Also this group behind me are the past inmates of the Intiative. I say past inmates because the Initiative no longer exists, I've just come back from destroying it and its people."
As this the entire Scooby gang gasped in shock.
"There were a good number of its members missing but I don't care about them. What I care about is three people who came to this planet two days ago and the small chest they carry with them."
"Why should I -" Buffy started to say.
"Because if you don't find these people and bring them to me more people of your planet will die. First the hostages, and then anyone else I choose."
Buffy remained silent in thought. "Why do you need me to find them?"
"Because they will search out the strongest warrior to aid them. I am told that is you. When they find you bring them back him by sundown. If not..." Sirus trailed off knowing she knew his meaning.
Buffy did know his meaning and boiled in anger on the inside. She was being used to do some killers dirty work. To save many she had to sacrifice a few. It wasn't justified but she had no choice at the moment.
"What do they look like?" she finally asked.
Sirus smiled and described what they were wearing the last time he saw them.
"Remember slayer, sundown tomorrow night is all the time you have. If you fail the numerous death on your planet will be on your head," said Sirus.
With that he walked up to Buffy and right past her. The other demons did as well while grunting and snarling at them. They eventually joined Adam's group and all of them proceded to walk out of the cemetary.
Back in the cemetary Buffy was having a hard time controling her emotions.
"Buffy, I suggest we find what's left of the Commandoes and ask for their help. We will need all the people we can get to search," said Giles.
"I agree Giles, but I still don't like this. For now we just find the people. After that I don't know what to do next," said Buffy.
With that said the gang walked out of the cemetary in complete silence. Dreading tomorrow night and what decisions would be made.
The sun was rising and the group was no nearer to finding the three people. Even with the remaining commando's helping no success was made. They used the magic shop for home base and coordinated their efforts. Buffy was becoming more worried about the hostages every minute. The sun would set at exactly 7:30. They had a little more than 8 hours left. She hated to sacrifice three lives for others. She hated even more how Adam and Sirus were using her to do their dirty work. But at the moment she had no other choice.
Buffy hated this, feeling out of control. Adam and Sirus were holding all the cards. They had exploited her duty to protect all humans by taking hostages. They had taken away the only force who knew about demons and could have helped her. She had been lucky that so many teams had been sent out before the Innative base was destroyed. When Riley had confirmed its destruction he had nearly been in tears. He had lost many friends and vowed to make those responsible pay. The other commandoes had similar attitudes. This is why they agreed to work with her, but not for her. They all made it clear that they wanted Sirus dead, and would do whatever it took to do it. Buffy didn't know what to do about that. Come sun down some hard decisions would have to be made.
Still, the commandoes extra man power was needed to search and she was grateful for it. Willow was trying a locator spell using some personal items they had taken from the crime scene but as of yet no luck. Meanwhile Giles was talking with the council to see if they could be of any assistance. That only proved just how desperate things were. Xander was with Riley reporting in every hour. Buffy for her part was walking around town trying to been seen. If these people were really looking for her she would make sure that they could find her. She still wasn't sure what she would do once she found them. She needed a plan to save them all, but time was running out.
Perhaps if Buffy hadn't been so distracted by these thoughts her slayer instincts would have caught a familiar presence entering Sunnydale. Then again maybe not, it had been some time since she sensed this person. Nor did Faith sense Buffy in Sunnydale. But she knew she was here, and she would find her. She also knew she had to do it quickly. Angel would escape Gunn and his crew soon and attempt to warn Buffy.
It was Saturday so Faith knew that Buffy wasn't at school. The next logical place would be her house. Faith only hoped that Joyce wouldn't be home. She generally liked the older woman and didn't want to hurt her. At least not more than she was when she killed her daughter. Faith shook that thought from her head and drove towards Buffy's house.
As she drove she noticed that it was quiet for day time. During the night she could understand, even the morons who lived in this town knew not to come out then. She also heard police sirens in different parts of the city. She wasn't worried though, the mayor had destroyed all evidence of her crimes. Soon it would all be over and she could live a life of luxury. Including killing a demon every now and then.
Randor was starting to get very tired and nervous. They had been on this planet for two days and yet to find this slayer. He was starting to doubt that she was even here. But Edward had insisted the portal had taken them to the slayer's area. Sarah still hadn't found the right aura and time was running out. If Kalis didn't know where they were now, he would very soon. He looked over and Sarah and noticed that she showed little effort in keeping up the invisibility spell. He was starting to think that she was stronger than he had originally thought. No where near her predecessor Ronda, but he could see her reaching that height one day. That is, if any of them lived to see another day.
"Are you telling me you still can't sense what direction she is in?" asked Randor.
Sarah shook her head. "I'm trying, but this place is full of demonic presence. It's hard to filter them out from the slayers. I know we're running out of time Randor. I'm trying my best, I really am." Tears started to come from her eyes.
Randor was unsure what to do in this situation. None of his solider training prepared him for things like this. He awkwardly put an arm around her while keeping his gun steady in the other. She leaned in to him and began to cry freely. What neither noticed was that Sarah had lost her concentration and the invisibility spell surrounding them dissolved. They also didn't notice that they were walking in the middle of the street. Lastly they didn't notice a car coming down the street right at them.
Faith saw the two people at the last second and swerved to avoid hitting them. She missed them by inches but couldn't avoid hitting a parked car on the side of the street. She braced herself for impact and managed to stop her body from moving forward.
Meanwhile Randor and Sarah were thanking their guardians they hadn't been hit. Randor help Sarah off the ground where he had pushed her to get out of the way.
"Are you alright?" asked Randor.
"Yeah, just a couple of bruises. I quick spell can" she stopped her speech and her eyes went wide. She was looking over Randor's shoulder in complete shock.
Randor, confused what was going on, turned around to see what she was looking at. He saw the car that nearly hit them smashed into another. He thought maybe Sarah sensed the driver was badly hurt when suddenly the driver side door was opened. Out of it came a female that appeared unharmed. She was also a looker, but he put that thought aside. By the look on her face she was very upset.
"What the hell did you think you were doing?!! Can't you see the do not cross signal? Are you both nuts?!! You must be with those outfits on. You look like some toy solider with a plastic gun. Not to mention your girlfriend over there looks like a gypsy or something. I hope you two got some money to pay for the damages to my car. With that or I'm going to escort my for up your candy asses!!" Faith finished ranting.
Randor was stunned by the female's outburst. A female had never raised their voice to him before. Neither had they talked to him in such a manner as she just had done. Primitative planet or not, no women would talk to him in such a way.
"You listen here women, nobody-"
"Shut-up! I don't want to hear any excuses. Either you have money or not." Interrupted Faith.
"I don't have-"
"Then an ass whooping is your reward." Faith started to crack her knuckles. "It's a shame for you that the gun isn't real. Because that's the only way you would stand a chance. Don't worry though; I'm going to make it quick. I have somewhere important to be." Said Faith as she walked towards Randor.
Randor brought up his gun and aimed "This is real woman. You step any closer and I'll show you just how real."
"You're nuts, I'm doing you a favor by putting you out of your misery." Said Faith as she continued walking.
Randor turned his gun to the left and fired. The laser blast took out a street lamp. He then turned the gun back to Faith. He was surprised, instead of seeing fear he only saw her smile get even bigger.
"A whack job with a big gun. It seems I'm still protecting this town after all." Said Faith as she continued to advance.
"I don't want to hurt you woman, but you give me no choice" said Randor as he began to pull the trigger.
"It's her!!" yelled Sarah unexpectantly.
Sarah's outburst surprised Randor so much that he released the trigger and turned his head to look at her. That turned out to be a mistake as Faith was on him in no time. She ripped the gun from his hands and kneed him in the stomach. The force of her blow crumpled his armor like paper. When Randor bended over from the pain Faith gave him a chop block to the back of his neck. Randor fell to the ground unconscious.
"Thanks for the distraction lady, that could have gotten messy." Said Faith as she held the gun at her side.
Sarah didn't seem to hear her "You're her, you're the slayer."
At this Faith stopped examing the gun and looked at her. She was stopped from responding by the shouts coming from down the street.
"Hey you, put the weapon down now. Walk slowly away from those people and lay on the ground with your hands on your head." Said a patrol cop with a gun pointed at Faith.
Faith didn't even bother to turn in the cop's direction.
"I know you heard me, put the gun-" The cop stopped talking as he saw Faith run to the side. He turned his gun in her direction but wasn't fast enough. Faith raised her gun and fired. The laser went right through the sun and skimmed the cop's shoulder. The cop fell to both knees and grabbed his injured shoulder.
"Now stay down, or next time I'll aim to kill." Yelled Faith to the cop. She has ran to get the cop to turn at a certain angle. It was the only way she could destroy his gun without hitting anything vital.
Sarah looked at Faith in continued shock. The speed in which she showed in disarming Randor and the uniformed police officer was incredible. This further proved what her magical senses had already told her. This was the slayer, they had finally found her.
"Hey you" said Faith bringing Sarah's attention back to her. "You better start explaining how you know I'm a slayer. If not, you are going to join your boyfriend over there in dreamland."
It didn't seem possible, but this woman continued to shock Sarah. By Edwards accounts the slayer was the emboyment of good. The slayer would protect innocent lives at all cost. This person however didn't seem like that at all. She had just threaten to do bodily harm to her, and by the look in her eyes she meant it.
"I don't have all day kid. Stop looking at me funny and answer my question." Said an annoyed Faith.
Sarah couldn't figure it out, this was the slayer. However something was very wrong, she just didn't know what. So she closed her eyes and stretched out her hands in front of her.
"Oh forget it, just take your boy toy and get out of here. Thanks to you I have to find a new ride to get to my appointment." Said Faith as she turned to walk away with the gun over her shoulder. She stopped as she heard Sarah whispering some words. Faith concentrated to hear what the girl was saying but the words made no sense to her. Faith shook her head and walked on to find a good car to steal.
"Zaprath!" yelled Sarah finished the incantation. Her eyes went bright white and she looked directly at Faith.
Faith turned around at the shout and saw the girl's eyes. She didn't know how she didn't see it before. This girl had magic, strong magic. She didn't know what the girl was doing, but her instincts were telling her that Sarah wasn't trying to hurt her.
Faith was so intent on Sarah that she didn't notice the cop she shot pulling out a radio and calling for backup. However it was not to police headquarters. It was to an Innative field team. The team would be here any minute.
"Now it all makes sense" said Sarah.
"What makes sense witchy?" asked Faith.
But Sarah didn't answer her. Her concentration was on the dark mist surrounding Faith's head. Sarah recognized it as a degradation spell. It slowly manipulated a person's mind to dark thoughts. It also stripped away the restraint a person would use to prevent these dark thoughts from being preformed in reality. By the strength of the spell it had been cast nearly a year ago. A lesser being would have become a homicidal killer with no control by now. This person obviously still had some. Not to mention she didn't kill either Randor or the cop. Sarah was fairly certain that she could free the slayer's mind. But only through personal touch and if she was let in the mind freely. In the slayer's present state that would not be an easy task.
"Lady, you're starting to piss me off. You try to use magic on me and I'll take you down before you utter another word."
"Please miss, I wish only to help you. There is a spell of great evil surrounding you. If you allow it, I can free you from it." Sarah pleaded.
"I think I would notice if I was under a spell."
"Not this kind, it's very slow moving. The effects would be sudden and go on for weeks without noticeable change. If you were anyone but a slayer you would be completely evil by now.
"I am not-"
"No you're not, not yet. But looking back you must remember when your thought patterns changed. When you started doing things you would have never done before. If any of this is true please give me a chance. I can free your mind and soul. You will no longer be confused in your actions. Please, just think back." Pleaded Sarah once again.
Faith remained silent in thought. Everything the girl said had a ring of truth to it. She could remember shortly after stabbing the deputy mayor noticing her thoughts began to change. He was an accident, but not the professor. In fact, she had enjoyed it. She always enjoyed killing demons, but never humans. Even when she killed in her pre slayer days it was only in self defense. It always made her sick afterwards.
Then there was Buffy. During those first weeks Faith was starting to see her as a friend. In fact, somewhere deep inside maybe even more than that. She had just put it off as part of their slayer connection. But looking back, it was more than that. Faith tried to remember the good times, but found none in her memory. Only the bad memories were there, playing over and over again in her mind. The witch was right, she was being manipulated. Her mind had built barriers in certain parts. In others the barriers, such as the one holding her rage, and almost been completely destroyed. Even as these revelations came to her her mind rebelled against them. It called them lies and told her that the world was against her. That she must strike first before others attacked her weakness. Faith grabbed head and closed her eyes in an attempt to make the voices stop.
Sarah looked at the slayer in quiet contemplation. The first step had been taken. Sarah could see the mist becoming unstable. She could feel the energy the slayer was using to reclaim control. The orange light of the slayer was overriding the dark aura resulting from the spell. Now it was time for Sarah to give the final push and free the slayer completely.
Just as she was about to put her hands on Faith shouts rang out.
"Get away from that woman, she dangerous." Yelled a man with five other guys. It was the commandoes in civilian gear. They had bats and tazers in their hands. They also had handcuffs in the pockets.
At the outburst Faith shook herself from her trance. Once again the dark mist became stable around her head.
"Get out of here girl, I got business to take care of." Said Faith with an evil smirk on her face.
Sarah cursed the rotten timing as she watched the slayer walked toward the group of men. She was so close; she needed only one more minute. Sarah heard groaning and turned around. Randor was attempting to pick himself off the pavement. Since the slayer was out of her reach for the moment she decided to help him up.
Not too far away Buffy was trying to gather herself. She had felt something that she hadn't felt in months, Faith. The connection never caused that much pain before but she knew that it was Faith. Buffy ran in the direction that she could feel Faith in. This was the last thing she needed right now. She didn't know what would happen once she got there, but had a feeling that it would be bad.
Walking towards the group of men Faith threw the gun to the side. She wanted to take care of these guys with her own bare hands. She couldn't remember what happen with the girl and decided that it wasn't important. It was time for a workout.
The commandoes looked at Faith coming towards them having no idea that she was a slayer. All they knew is that she fit the description of the woman who attacked their undercover operative. Since Faith had threw away the gun they decided not to use lethal force. They would simply restrain her and take her to the proper authorities.
"Alright boys lets try not to hurt her. Lets make this quick so we can grab those other two it fit the description of the people we are looking for. Finally we'll get some answers about this whole mess." Said the leader.
With her slayer hearing she heard what he had said and fought not to laugh out loud. It would be quick, put it wouldn't be her kissing the pavement.
"Randor, are you okay?" asked Sarah.
Randor was still on his hands and knees trying to clear his head. The last thing he remembered was Sarah's voice. After that intense pain, and finally darkness. He also remembered a woman, but vaguely.
"Come on Randor, you have to get up and help me. We found the slayer, she-"
Randor went into a coughing fit, "We what" taking a breath "when did that happen?"
"Just a few minutes ago, she's the woman who knocked you out."
Randor started to object that no woman could knock him out when he suddenly remembered. His first thought was to blame his defeat on Sarah's interruption. But his soldier mentality wouldn't allow him such an excuse. Her being the slayer made it less embarrassing. He didn't fully believe Edward until just now. Her speed and strength were incredible. His body armor had offered him no protection against her physical blows.
"Where did she go?" He asked slowing standing up. He also noticed something else "What happen to my gun?"
Helping him up "She threw it aside, and she's over there about to beat up some more people. But there's a problem Randor."
"More problems" said Randor as he finally stood. He turned in the direction of the slayer and the six guys she was walking toward. Poor bastards was Randor's thoughts on the fate of the six.
"Yes, the slayer is under a spell. One that essentially turns those from good to evil."
"What?!! You're saying that she is evil now, this just gets worse and worse."
"No, she's not evil, yet. I can free her from the spell, but I need time. Time to perform the counter spell as well as time to get her to trust me. I can only free her if she lets me in willingly."
Randor listened to all Sarah said and stopped to think. "Well I suggest we wait until after she's done with those guys. Until then let's get my gun and enjoy the show."
Sarah was dubious about this course of action but decided to do as Randor said.
Faith easily pointed out the leader of the pack. He was broad shouldered with black straight hair. He could see his muscles bulge against his shirt as well as his confidant stance. The guy was definitely a jock. The taser in his hand would do him no good. Nor the other weapons that the other guys had. She could sense that they weren't ordinary thugs. Not that it mattered; the conclusion would be the same.
"You made a smart move dropping the weapon. Now hold your hands out." Blake, the leader, motioned for one of them to take out their handcuffs. "We'll take you to the police station and get all this settled."
Faith gave him her infamous smirk "The only thing that we're going to get settled is an ass whooping son." Faith wasted no more words and got to work.
The commandoes were stunned by her verbal response, but even more stunned by her physical one. Blake was hit with a uppercut to the chin with unbelievable strength and speed. The force of the blow knocked him out cold in mid air and sent him sailing into two of his teammates taking all three to the ground. The others immediately went into action.
One commando swung his bat at Faith's head only to hit air. Faith had sidestepped the blow with inhuman speed. Just as the bat cracked the pavement Faith caught the arm of another commando trying to hit her in the neck with his tazer. At the same time Faith ducked as a third commando trying to tackle her. In a fluid motion she brought her body back up effectively flipping the commando over her head and onto his back where his body made a resounding thud. The commando with the tazer tried to rip his arm free as the one with the bat was in motion of swing the bat to hit the side of Faith head. Thinking fast Faith raised her arm and blocked the blow to her head. She then hooked the bat between her arm and shoulder. She now had both weapons immobilized. Bat boy had both hands on his bat trying to pull it away. Tazer boy decided top stop struggling and used his free hand to take a swing at Faith. Faith absorbed the blow and used tazer boy's momentum to send his arm with the tazer into bat boy's direction. Simultaneously she pulled the bat between her arm and shoulder in tazer boy's direction. The results were predictable. The tazor hit bat boy in the neck and he released the bat as he fell to the ground in dreamland. As soon as the bat was loose Faith swung her shoulder full force sending the end of the bat in tazer boy's face. The hit broke his nose and send him falling on his ass.
Faith was about to finish him off when she felt a hand on her ankle. She looked on the ground behind her seeing it was the guy she had flipped over. He was starting to stand with his hand on her ankle but she was having none of it. Raising her free leg Faith turned slightly and brought the full force of her foot on the wrist of the guy holding her. His wrist shattered and he let go of her ankle screaming in pain. Hearing sounds behind her Faith grabbed the fallen man and put him in front of her as she turned around.
Her instincts proved correct as directed projectile tazer spikes were shot in her direction. They hit the man instead and thousands of electricity went coursing through his body. The volts eventually stopped and the man became dead weight in Faith's arms. The two commandoes who had gotten up from under their leader looked on in shock.
Faith ignored their surprise and picked her human shield over her head. The two commandoes shook themselves from their surprise and waited for Faith's next move. However, they were surprised that instead of throwing the body at them she threw it to the side. They were confused by this move until they looked where the body landed.
Tazer boy was just getting up from being hit in the nose with a bat. Still disoriented he didn't see the body flying towards him until it was too late. The fellow commandoes chest hit him in the head sending him back to the ground. The impact of the back of his head hitting the pavement as well as the body crushing his skull from the front proved too much for him. His world went dark and he was out of the fight.
Faith saw this and turned her attention to the two remaining men. These definitely weren't ordinary guys. They had actually proved somewhat of a challenge. However she had more important things to do inst trying to figure out who these guys were. She had been distracted enough already.
"I suggest you guys run along. It's just you two now and you know you don't stand a chance. Consider yourself lucky I have places to go and people to see. But after I'm done with my business feel free to look me up. I wouldn't mind another workout with you guys and some of your friends."
With that Faith gave them a wave goodbye and turned around to find a car to steal.
"Wait, just what are you lady?" asked one of the commandoes. He couldn't just let her go without any answers. He made no moves to stop her though.
Faith ignored the man and continued to walk. She suddenly stopped when she felt an all too familiar presence.
"Her name's Faith, and she's a slayer." Said the voice of Buffy.
Faith turned slowly to the right and saw the blond slayer only twenty feet away from her. It seemed she wouldn't need a car after all.
The two commandoes looked at Buffy, and then back to who they now knew as Faith. A slayer, they thought there could be only one. It did explain why they got their butts beat. Buffy had done the same in her test to join the Innative.
The two slayers stared at each other not saying a word. Different emotions were felt by each. From Buffy there was confusion as well as weariness. From Faith there was rage and jealously.
"Long time no see B. You don't call, you don't write. I guess you just been too busy with your fan club. I not offended I wasn't invited. I was never welcome there in the first place." Said Faith in a bitter tone.
"Don't start this Faith, I have more important-"
"Everything is always more important to you than me. I'm tired of hearing that shit. There is nothing more important than right now. Buffy the perfect slayer tried to take my life. I've come to return the favor. But I won't try, I'll get it right the first time." With that Faith starting walking towards Buffy cracking her knuckles.
Buffy wasn't sure what to do. She didn't have time to fight Faith now. Unfortunally it seemed Faith wasn't going to give her a choice in the matter. The remaining commandoes would be of no help. She also decided trying to explain the present situation to Faith would do no good. Only one thing was on the dark slayer's mind, revenge. Now only teen feet away Buffy went into her fight stance. She didn't know how all this would turn out, but one thing was for certain. Only one Slayer would walk away from this fight.
Xander was getting extremely bored walking around with Riley and his team. He knew what they were doing was important, he just couldn't help himself. They hadn't seen a single demon and the town was eerily quiet. The sounds you could here were an occasional siren from a police car. More than likely they were there to give a false sense of security after last night's terror. It was fooling no one, the town of Sunnydale was a living in fear. Subconciously they were for years, last night's attack simply brought those fears to the surface. The police were ineffective in calming the public. They didn't stand a chance against the demons. The secret patrols of the remaining Innative were the only real protection the town had.
They were currently searching through one of the neighborhoods that had been attacked last night. Riley brought them here thinking that there might be some clues left behind that the police wouldn't know to look for. The police tape was still around but there was no one around to enforce it. Xander was currently looking in some bushes when Riley's radio went off beside him.
"Team leader Finn, this is team Striker please come in," said a voice.
Riley looked at Xander and then his radio "This in Finn, what do you have to report Blake" remembering Strikers team leader name.
"This isn't Blake sir. He's out of action. That's why I'm calling, we got some serious problems here."
Riley went livid "What do you mean Blake is out of action?!! You explain yourself solider, and fast!"
The soldier, whose name was Ted, told Riley everything.
"That's impossible, a whole team taken out less than 30 seconds! Is she some kind of demon?"
"We don't think so, Miss Summers says she's a slayer like herself."
At that statement Xander's eyes widened.
"I thought there could be only one." Said Riley not noticing Xander's reaction.
"So did I, but that's what she said. Also and looks like her and the other slayer, who according to her is named Faith, are about to fight. Also two of the three aliens we were looking for are across the street from them just staring. We need more people, it's out of control. We're on Baker street, get here as fast as you can."
"Team Alpha is on its way. Keep an eye on the aliens but otherwise don't interfere. Slayer or not Buffy can handle herself."
"Understood sir, will be awaiting your arrival." Ted ended the signal.
Riley put the radio away and yelled out "Bring it in team, two of the three aliens have been sighted on Baker street. Team Striker found them but encounter problems with a woman that Buffy claims is another Slayer. Four of the members of striker are out of commission and one of out undercovers is wounded. Buffy is currently confronting the Slayer. We're going to assist her as well as capture the aliens."
"Containment of the hostiles are our first priority right sir?" asked Forrest. His dislike of Buffy was no secret to anyone.
"Both are of equal importance agent Forrest. This slayer has attacked our men just as Sirus did. She must be made to pay." Said Riley in a tight voice.
At that Forrest averted his eyes and the others grew somber expressions.
"Alright then men, lets move out. Xander, you should probably return-"
"No."
"What do you mean-"
"You have no idea who you are dealing with. Faith is a psychotic killer with no remorse. She enjoys choking the life out of others, I know from personal experience. She is a slayer like Buffy said. You have seen what Buffy can do first hand. Now imagine a ruthless murderer with the same skills."
The Initiative members looked at each other in concern. The picture Xander just described was a scary one.
"You heard him men, we've got to stop her. Xander, you can come too. You can tell us more about this Faith on the way."
Then they jogged off towards Baker street while Xander filled them in of Faith's history with him and his friends.
On Baker street Faith didn't waste anymore time with words. Four feet away from Buffy she made her first move and brought her right arm back for a punch. Buffy saw the move and positioned her arms to deflect the punch. Therefore she was surprised when Faith tucked her arm and charged leading with her shoulder. Caught off guard Buffy couldn't avoid the move and the shoulder connected with her chest. Buffy lost her balance falling back and immediately felt a leg connecting with her unprotected stomach. The force sent her flying back a couple of feet and landing on her back. Buffy cringed at the pain but kept her eyes open. Only to see the sun blocked out as a shadow descended towards her. Acting on instinct she rolled to her left just avoiding a fist as it slammed into the pavement where her head once was. Buffy then flipped back on her feet and regained her fighting stance.
Faith stayed on one knee with her fist in the pavement. The pavement was cracked by the strength of her punch. She then slowly raised and turned to Buffy "Good job B, I would have hated for it to end so soon."
Faith then charged again this time raising her left arm. Unlike before she followed through with the punch and Buffy was barely able to avoid it. Faith continued to punch alternating hands always aiming for Buffy's face. Buffy continued to block and dodge but couldn't find an opening to counterattack. Faith's fist flying too fast. It was even more eerie that Faith wasn't saying a word. Buffy had never seen her this focused in a fight before.
Buffy got tired being on the defensive and grabbed Faith right wrist on a punch. She attempted to twist it when she was suddenly head butted. Not once but twice. Her momentary lack of concentration enable to Faith to reverse the hold on her wrist and now had Buffy in her grasp. She pulled Buffy towards her and kneed her in the stomach. Once Buffy bent down Buffy used her free hand to bring a chop block down on her neck. However she never accomplished her goal as Buffy's head came up quickly and hit her right in the face. Now Faith was staggered.
Buffy took advantage and kicked her leg out into Faith's stomach. Pressing her advantage Buffy let loose a left cross against the side of the head Of Faith. It spent Faith around and Buffy advance again right into a backhand from Faith finishing her spin. This time Buffy was spent around and used the momentum for a leg sweep. It connected and Faith went falling to the ground on her. Quick as a cat Buffy got to her feet and aimed a foot right at Faith's side. It connected and Faith let out a grunt. But before Buffy could retract her foot Faith grabbed her ankle with both hands. Buffy attempted to pull it away but Faith's grip was strong. Just as Buffy was about to kick Faith in the face with her free leg Faith twisted her ankle with super human strength. Buffy felt her bones cracking and let out a scream of pain. Faith let the ankle go and flipped back on her feet just as Buffy went down to one knee grabbing her torn ankle.
Faith gave a small smirk before she lifted her foot into the face of the blond slayer. Buffy rolled on her back getting out of the range of the foot. As Faith advance on her Buffy continued her roll and jumped up on her one good leg. She then extended her bad leg right into the face of an approaching Faith. Faith forward momentum on what she taught an injured slayer was didn't allow her a chance to dodge and the foot connected with her face. Blood dropped from her nose as she fell back and Buffy bit up lip to stop the scream from further usage of her damage leg. Buffy then brought both feet down and propelled her self into a dive right at Faith's left leg. Her aimed proved true as her shoulder connected with Faith's knee cap effectively bending it backwards. Faith let out a scream to the heavens and fell on her butt. At the same time Buffy land on her stomach skidding across the pavement causing more pain to her already bruised body.
Both lay panting and grabbing their individual injured legs. Buffy's right and Faith's left. Both also had bruised around their faces. Faith's nose was bleeding while Buffy's looked completely broken. Faith also had some blurred vision from her left eye from Buffy's hook. On the other side Buffy's lip was busted form Faith's backhand. Faith's side her from the kicked she received while on the ground. Buffy could feel some cracked ribs from the numerous kicks to her stomach and chest area. All in all both slayers had given as good as they had gotten. The two slayers looked at each other from their prone positions without saying a word. Communicating with their eyes a mutual standing was reached that each would be given a short breather. But they both also understood that the fight wasn't over.
On the sidelines the two remaining Striker members had their mouths open. They couldn't believed what they had just witnessed. Even after Faith defeated them they still had doubts that she was actually a slayer. But after witnessing the battle, because fight wasn't strong enough of a word, they were convinced. Their movement had been so fast they didn't even see some of the hits. Not to mention the power, you feel the electricity in the air between the two. They also came to the conclusion that both slayers had been holding back on them. The way they fought with each other was easily five times the force they had used on the Initiative soldiers. The two members looked at each other debating if they should attack the other slayer now that she was wounded. But shook their heads after look at their fallen members. There was nothing more dangerous than a wounded predator. That's exactly what these slayers were. Predators, and everyone else, man or demon, was their prey.
On the other side similar thoughts were taking place. Randor and Sarah had never seen a Kel Tok in action before. Now that they had they were impressed. Not to mention Edward said they didn't know how to use their full power. If they could teach them they might actually stand a chance against the Elites. As far as Kalis, the two weren't sure anyone had that kind of power.
"Amazing, I can't recall ever seeing such a one on one fierce battle before. It truly is a sight to behold," said Randor.
"Indeed, they could truly be our salvation," contributed Sarah.
"Yeah, if they don't kill each other first. You said the dark hair was under a spell right? You better find a way to free her, and fast. I think both are about to start up again."
Sarah looked at him in surprise. She then turned her attention to the slayers and saw what he meant. Both were slowly starting to get to their feet.
"I can only remove the spell if she lets me in willingly. I can't gain her trust in the middle of the fight. I need time."
"We don't have it, they aren't waiting" he said pointing at the two.
Sarah followed his gaze and cringed at the sight.
She cringed because while still one knee Faith stretched across and hit Buffy in the face. Buffy's head jerked back as blood went flying. She retaliated by striking right back with a punch of her own. It connected and Faith's cheek busted open. Faith went back went another right cross to Buffy's face. Buffy again gave her another right. On their knees both slayers traded punch after punch. There was attempt to block or dodge, each was giving everything they had to knock the other out. Not only were their punches to the face but to the stomach, chest, what ever was in sight. Their faces starting resembling punching bags and their hands were a bloody mess, but they didn't stop. Finally an advantage was given when Faith slammed her fist against Buffy's shattered knee. This proved too much for Buffy already badly beaten body and she fell backwards in an heart wrenching scream. By pure will she remained conscious but it was faded.
Faith saw her opportunity to finally end the fight. Use the last of her reserves she jumped on top of Buffy. Ignoring the pain she put both her hands around Buffy's neck and squeezed with all the strength she had left. Buffy's injuries had depleted her strength and she used what little left to remain conscious. Therefore she had no power to break Faith's grip. She barely felt the pain as numbness encased her body. The world began to darken and started to forget why she was even fighting. Faith for her part looked down at Buffy with fire in her eyes and pushed her body past its limit to keep the hold. Just when Buffy's body was starting to stop moving entirely Faith felt a heavy object hit her in the back of the head. Her hold on Buffy slacked Faith rolled on the side of her. She briefly saw the sun until her world went black.
Randor looked down upon to he two women in disgust at the shape of their bodies. He hated such a coward move as hitting the girl in the back of the head with his gun. But he needed them both alive to help him. He then turned his attention the Sarah.
"They're in pretty bad shape Sarah, can you heal them."
Sarah looked down at their injuries and fought not to get sick. She knew the internal injuries were probably even worse.
"They're too severe to heal outright. But I can increase their own slayer healing powers to speed up the process. We should take them, back to Edward."
"Hey you two, get away from them" said Ted finally moving from his spot.
Randor raised his gun "Stay right their human, these two are coming with us. Sarah, teleport us all out of here."
"Hold on, I haven't practiced teleportation spells a lot and it's going to be rough." Sarah closed her eyes and spoke some words.
"Get away from her!" yelled Riley Finn raising his blaster.
But it was too late as Sarah finished the incantation and the four vanished in a beam of light.
Riley and the rest of his team looked on in shock. He then looked over to the two Strikers. "What the hell is going on here? Where did they go?" he asked them.
The two Strikers looked at each other and shook their heads.
"I think that was a witch" said Xander. He saw Buffy laid out on the ground near Faith but he hadn't been close enough to see the extent of her injuries.
"That Sirus guy did say the girl had magic. So I'd say that was definitely the group we are looking for. But where did they go?" said Forrest.
"I don't know, but we won't rest until we find them and Buffy."
Elsewhere a group of demons were staking out a motel. A lot of inhabitants of the neighborhoods that were attacked last night had moved there for protection.
"Alright you ten stay out here and make sure no one disturbs us. The rest of us will go in an assist the tengo's in adding to their family. Everyone clear?" said one Sirus' armed soldier.
The demons and soldiers nodded their heads. There were two dozen in all. Ten armed soldiers, five girath demons, 3 polgara, and the remaining six Tengo's. Sirus had ordered them to increased their numbers in the Tengo's were the quickest way to do it. Transforming Humans into Tengo's only took 6 Earth hours. Plenty of time for the main event tonight.
"Alright then, move out!" With that the group march to their unsuspecting prey.
Back inside a crypt Edward was looking over his books trying to learn as much as he could about this planet. He was starting to get worried about Sarah and Randor. They were nearing a third day and they had yet found the slayer. Kalis would seen his army soon, the artifact was too valuable to him to let go. Just as he finished that thought the entire crypt was lit up. He turned around and was grateful to see it was his friends. He then saw the badly beaten girls beside them and covered his mouth in shock.
"By the ancients, what happen to them? Who are they and why did you bring them here?"
"These are the slayers that you had us look for. What happen is that they were beating the hell out of each other. Lastly we brought them here to heal them and explain why we need their help." Said Randor answering all of Edward's questions.
Edward looked at him and shock. Then he looked down at the two girls. Then back to Edward again.
"These are the slayers? But that's impossible, there is only suppose to be one a generation."
"Well it seems there are two in this one, maybe more. I don't why you're going off on us, this is good news. Instead of one Kel Tok to help us there is two," said Randor.
Edward looked at him completing his point. "You're correct, this is good news. I don't know how it happen but it greatly increases our chances of survival."
"There is some bad news, one of the slayers is under a spell" interrupted Sarah.
"Spell, what kind?"
"It's a degradation spell, turning good thoughts into bad and making them a reality. It's a slow moving spell so the slayer would have never noticed she was under it. Also a lot of her animosity seems to be directed at the other slayer. If she isn't freed she will continue to fight her and neither will be of help to us." Finished Sarah.
"Then free her then girl, we are running out of time." Said Edward urgently.
"It isn't that easy, the counter spell requires she let me in willingly. I can do nothing while she sleeps and it's doubtful she will trust me when she wakes."
Edward thought about that and return to one of his books..
"One step at a time Sarah. You need to start healing them first. We will deal with the rest as it comes," said Randor.
"There injuries are severe and numerous, it will take some times. I won't be able to heal them all, but enough so that they can stand and breath normally."
"Maybe you can do both" Edward suddenly said.
"What do you mean?" asked Sarah.
"I have been reviewing this degradation spell. It seems that beside a counter spell it can be reversed by showing someone the truth about their deepest hate. You say she holds extreme animosity to the other Slayer correct?"
Sarah nodded.
"If we can get the two to resolve their differences the spell would be broken."
"Easier said than done," said Randor.
"Perhaps, but the best place to do that is in their dreams. That way they can't hurt each other."
"How would you suggest we do that Edward?"
"That slayer power passes on through the spirit. That means that these two must share one. Sarah can perform a spell creating a link between the two. In addition a truth spell will have to be used as well."
"Why?"
"Because they can only resolve their issues if both are completely honest. Can you handle that much magic Sarah?"
"I think so, but I would have to hold off on heal them. I can't do that and what you're asking at the same time, it's beyond my power."
"Very well, their slayer healing will sustain them until you finished the other spells. Are you ready to begin now or do you need a rest?"
"No, I'll start now." Sarah turned and looked down at the slayers. She began a chant for the souls to communicate with each other. However mid way she stopped and gasped.
"What's wrong Sarah?" asked Randor.
"A link already exists between the two. I believe they are communicating with each other right now."
"Good, you can skip right to the truth spell."
"Yes, I can also start their healing now since I don't have to perform the joining." Sarah closed her eyes and got to work.
While Sarah was doing that the slayers were meeting in their dreams.
"So here we are again. I'm really sick of this room, can you dream of something else?" said Faith.
"Me, this is your apartment Faith. If anyone would be dreaming about it it would have to be you. Why are we talking, you were trying to kill me earlier." Responded Buffy.
"I would have succeed if someone hadn't hit me in the back of the head. Once I wake up I'm going to return the favor. As far as not attacking you this is only in our minds B. We can't hurt each other here, talking is all we can do. After we wake up I'll finish the job."
"This isn't a game Faith. You have no idea what's going on today."
"That's where you're wrong, I know exactly what's going on. I'm going to kill you. Anything else is unimportant."
"Damnit Faith this isn't about us. A lot of people.."
"Screw the people. They'll just have to make due without their little protector. It's time they got a clue and started defending themselves. The human race outnumbers the demons 100 to 1 but they still cower. Hell, you've hurt more than helped."
"How can you say that. I've protected this town and the entire world for years. They would have died without-"
"That's the point Buffy. You protect them so much that they don't fight for themselves. They know what's out there but ignore it because they know someone will fight the battle for them. Their sheep, they just follow your lead and remain lazy. A world can't survive like that. Individuals can't survive like that. Eventually the pressure will become too much and the person will go insane or kill themselves. Face it Buffy, I'm doing you and the world a favor."
Buffy stared at Faith in shock. "Is that really how you see it? Is that your excuse for going to the Mayor? You wanted the world to fend for itself?"
Faith started to laugh. "Nothing so heroic, my reasons were much simpler and for myself. But to someone like you my reasons would make any sense. You've been too coddled your life to understand."
"Are you nuts, I'm a slayer. My life is in danger every day. People depend-"
"People don't know shit, haven't you been listening. They don't even know that you exist. As for being the slayer you're not exactly doing it by yourself. You have friends who risk their lives too and that don't even have your powers, They're the heros Buffy, not you and me. We do what we do because that is what we were made for. There is nothing special about following what destiny has already given to you. It's those who fight against the given path that are truly special."
Buffy looked at Faith in astonishment. She had no idea that Faith could be this deep. And while some of what she was saying made sense Buffy still felt she was missing something.
"I'm trying to understand you Faith, and to a point I do. But I still don't get why you turned."
Faith shook her head "My life until I was called was crap. An abusive father and a crack whore of a mother. I was destined to be just like them. I became even more like my mother when they finally took my father to jail for good. My mother started to bring my 'uncles' to the house. I happen to be lucky and my body grew out at a young age."
"My God."
"But wait, there's more. I later used the skills I learned with my 'uncles' and went on the street where I could actually get paid for my service. Eventually I earned enough to leave my shit hole and hit the road. Unlike my mom though I stayed away from drugs. I knew I would have to keep a clear mind being on my own. Shortly after that I began to get stronger, smarter faster. I even sensed things when I was around certain people. I didn't know what had happen but I knew that I liked it."
"Kendra died" said Buffy helpfully.
"Yeah, by Angelus' child I heard. Anyway for once in my life everything was going my way. I no longer had to sell myself, I took what I wanted. I never got scared walking down the street. I had somehow beat the hand fate had given me. That was until she came."
"Your Watcher?"
"Yeah, her. Gave me all this talk about how I was the chosen one and destined to fight the forces of darkness. Of course I thought it was all bullshit until she actually staked a vampire in front of me. I was amazed, so I went along with her to learn more. I didn't mind the training so much because it gave me an advantage over my opponents. But slowly I began to see I was right back where I started. Following someone else's plan for my instead of my own. Once again my choices were no longer mine. Fate determined who and what I would be. I would fight evil and my reward would be to die alone and young. I didn't have many friends to begin with but now destiny determined that I would have none."
"But it doesn't have to be that way. You can change things, I did."
"That's right, you cheated fate and death. But again you weren't alone. You have parents, at least your mother. You have a watcher who fills the fatherly role. Even the Scooby gang is your brother and sisters. While were on the subject that is really a dumbass name."
"Hey!"
"Shut-up I'm not finished. The fact is Buffy it was the people in your life that changed your fate. Without them you would be just like me. I know before you came here you hated your destiny and didn't want to be a slayer anymore. You wanted a normal life."
"Who told you?"
"No one, like I said we're a lot alike. Except that I didn't try to separate myself from the slayer. I embraced that side of myself and tried to use it to escape my planned fate. You know, use the very weapon that use to trap you and turn it against them to release you. I think my watcher realized that and started to be more strict with me. Encouraged me to read the slayer handbook more. We never had a friendship, it was more like boss and co-worker. When she tried to put me in line it strained our relationship even more. I think subconciously I wanted Kakistos to kill her. So that I would be free."
"You don't really mean that Faith."
"How would you know, you have-"
"Because I felt the same thing Damnit!!"
"Huh?"
Calming herself "Merrick, he was my first watcher. He saved me from a master vampire by giving is own life. Even when I got my revenge and killed the vampire I felt guilty for months. A small part of me wanted to die Faith. I didn't want the destiny thrust upon me. Except unlike you I didn't fight, I just gave up. Don't you see, I'm not as strong as you make me out to be. You say I'm strong because I have family and friends. I say without them I am just a scared little girl."
"You get scared?"
"Hell yes, for myself as well as them. It's because of them that I keep my destiny. They show me everyday why I should fight. You're right Faith, they are the true heros. I can't stand the thought of letting them down. But even that's not enough all the time. I still alone because I'm different than anyone else. I live in both heaven an in hell. At least I did until you came along."
"Then it was all hell right?"
"Wrong, for once I actually felt normal."
"Come again?"
"I realized that I wasn't alone in the world. Sure there was Kendra, but she was an emotional stump. We never got a chance to form any kind of a bond. But with you I felt something. I could always sense where you were and sometimes even your feelings."
"Same here, but I never felt that fear you were talking about. Only confidence and determination."
"That's because the fear was so deep that I even hid it from myself. Trust me Faith, it's there."
"That's the operative word B, trust. It's something that we never had between each other. You didn't trust telling me anything about your life anymore than I did to you."
"As a result there was suspicion and jealousy."
"Yep, it all came to a climax when she showed up."
They both knew who she was.
"Post really messed us up."
"No B, things were already messed up. I was already an outsider and you felt that I was trying to take your life away from you. Again nobody told me, I just know."
"Then we had our first real fight dealing with Angel."
"Yeah, and once again fate screwed me over with a psycho watcher. I was so pissed off after that, that Finch thing was bound to happen. The gang forgave you for the whole Angel thing, but not me. You all were just waiting for me to screw up and took advantage."
"That's not true, you lied and said I did it. If you told the truth-"
"The Council would have came anyway. Face it, the council was losing control. Neither you nor I stepped in line. Hell, that Circum what ever proved that. Giles needed me to investigate a nest just outside of Sunnydale to keep me away. Once again someone screw you and you forgave them without a second thought. But for good old Faith it was one strike and you're out. Trust, what a joke. Even before I came here you guys lied to each other. There's no trust here, just blind acceptance. That's not good enough for me, so I didn't belong. There is no possible way that you can say otherwise."
Buffy stayed silent taking all this in. No matter how much she denied it she knew there were truths in what Faith said. There wasn't a lot of trust and Faith had never been part of the group. They only called her when she was needed. She was like a employee, not a friend.
"Damnit Faith, what do you want from me?!! I can't apologize hundred times and it would never be enough for you. You made mistakes too, it wasn't just us."
"Of course I did, I'm human. I'm suppose to make mistakes. You're the one that thinks just because we have these powers that we are suppose to be perfect. You held me to a standard that even you couldn't measure up to. Fucking vamps and runaway from home are mistakes B. Being human is part of being a slayer. You can't accept that."
"Alright Faith I've listened to you. You saying you felt trapped by your destiny like me. Except that instead of trying to separate yourself from the slayer you used it. You're a free spirit you can't be contained. You have no friends to support you. I did a shitty job of trying to be one. You went evil and I tried to kill you and feed you to my vampire boyfriend. We'll all fucked up Faith. So you're just going to continue the cycle and kill me? Where does it end Faith?"
"With you Buffy, because once your gone another slayer won't replace you. Your death spawned Kendra, her death spawned me. Only my death can spawn another slayer. I have intention of wasting my life guarding the hellmouth. If the council comes after me good luck to them. They'll learn that they and the rest of the human race is going to have to fend for itself."
"If you do that then you have let destiny win."
"What the hell are you talking about?"
"Because you will be alone and die young. You may leave the hellmouth but demons are everywhere. Even you don't want to protect people slaying is in your blood. The hunt will call to you and you'll be forced to answer or go insane. Eventually that insanity or a lucky demon will kill you. If you truly what to escape fate, we have to work together."
"How do you figure that."
"Because when we were together Faith we were unbeatable. Now a demon alive could match our powers. Our reputation reached the point where demons actually starting leaving Sunnydale in terror. As you said, we were friends and didn't trust each other. Imagine the damage we could do if we were friends and did trust each other. Our bond would become even stronger and so would we. Together we can over come the demons, the Council, even fate itself. Together we wouldn't die young and alone. We wouldn't follow the path destiny set for us. We would own our own destiny. Which one of those options sounds better to you? You always up for a challenge. Will you accept the ultimate challenge and overcome your destiny instead of running from it?" Buffy finished looking straight in the eye.
Faith held Buffy's gaze and was speechless. Everything Buffy said made sense. Running wasn't her solution, she always faced things head on. She did remember how strong they were together. She could only imagine how much stronger they could be if they were on the same page. Even as she thought this voices in her head were screaming against her. Telling Buffy was trying to trap her so she could turn and kill her. But the voices were dimmed by Faith determination. The spell was wreaking and the barriers around her happy memories were cracking. However Faith still had one question before she could even think about agreeing to this.
"How can we trust each other Buffy. We both have nearly ended each others lives. We just can't forget that."
"Do you hate me?" asked Buffy.
"No" said Faith the truth spell giving her no alternative. Faith was surprised by her answer but knew it to be truth.
"Are you sorry you tried to kill me?" asked Buffy.
"Yes" Faith honest again truthfully.
"Good, I feel the same way. Now to answer your question we learn to trust by learning about each other. You gave me bits about your past but not specifics. I've only told you a little in the past. For this to work we have to tell each other everything. We can't hold back anything no matter how terrible or ugly. Only then can we be friends. I will if you will." Buffy held out her hand for Faith to shake.
Faith looked at the hand and thought about everything it represented. The two spells raged against her. The one by Sarah telling her to follow her heart. The one by the mayor telling her to reject the mayor. Faith didn't know what to do until she looked in Buffy's hazel eyes. There she saw all she needed to know. She put out her own hand and shook Buffy's. In that movement the mist scream in immense pain as the barriers around Faith's mind shattered. With it the mist lost all its power and let out one more cry before it disappeared into oblivion.
Buffy and Faith smiled at each knowing this one a new beginning for them both.
While gazing at each other Faith faltered and staggered on her feet. Buffy rushed to her and grabbed her into a hug. She slowly guided Faith down on the bed and waited for Faith to regain control.
"Are you alright?" asked Buffy.
Faith slowly refocused her eyes and looked at the blond. "I think so, I don't know what happen. When our hands touched I felt something heavy leave me. It was like something covering my soul vanishing into thin air."
"Was it a good thing or a bad thing?"
"Not sure, but I think whatever it was it was bad. I feel different, complete again. There`s also things I'm starting to remember now."
"Like what?"
"Mostly stuff about you and the Scooby's. There's also some stuff about the way your mom treated me. She liked me didn't she?"
"Yes, and she still does. I didn't have the heart to tell her you turned and that I put you in a coma. Instead I said some demon did."
"But weren't you afraid I might attack her?"
"Not really, as you said she was the only one who actually gave you a chance. I doubted you would go after her. Not to mention I couldn't be everywhere at once. If you really wanted to attack my friends you could have. I held out that you could still be saved."
"You had more faith in me than I do."
The both laughed at Faith's choice of words.
"You know it's weird having a name that doesn't describe me at all."
"I think you're wrong."
"What, you know a little about my life. When the hell did I ever I have anything to have faith in?"
"Yourself, as you told me you refused to be ruled by fate and destiny. You overturned every obstacle and circumstance that life has given you. An ordinary person would have accepted this and lived a horrible life. Even before becoming a slayer Faith you have always been strong. Your will to beat the odds is inspiring, I can only to have that kind of strength someday." Finished Buffy.
Faith looked at her not saying a word. Buffy thought she was the strong one? Faith wasn't sure how to react to that and decided to leave the subject alone for now.
"Okay, I guess one of us needs to start telling their life story. Seeing how it was my idea I'll start first. Feel free to ask a question or give comments on the way. Alright, my story starts in-"
"Hold up B, I want to go first. If it's all right with you."
"Sure, but you mind if I ask why?"
"We've done each other wrong but me more than you. I should start first so we can get all the really bad stuff out the way. I guarantee you mine are a lot uglier than yours."
"If that's what you want. Just remember this isn't a contest Faith. We're doing this so we can learn more about each other and become friends. So we won't make the same mistake we did before."
"I know, but thanks for saying it anyway. Alright, I was born in Boston to a Thomas and Erika Spencer on…"
As the slayers began their life story Sarah opened her eyes.
"They did it, the spell is gone" Sarah turned to the others and smiled.
"You mean the degradation spell?" asked Randor making sure that was the spell she was talking about.
"Yes, and their bodies are starting to heal at a faster rate. Whatever they're doing in there it's strengthing the bond between the two."
"Excellent, you've done very well Sarah. Now we just have to wait to they're healed enough to awaken." Said Edward.
"I believe they're capable now but choose to stay asleep. They must have a lot of issues to work through." Said Sarah.
"This is all good news but I feel we are all missing the point. Time is not on our side. It wouldn't surprise me if some of Kalis' minions were already here looking for us." Said Randor.
"None of us have forgotten Randor. However for the slayers to be effective in helping us they must be fully healed and in tuned with each other." Responded Edward.
Randor let out a breath and looked at the slayers.
"I suppose you're right Edward, we just have to wait."
Back at the motel the attack was getting under way.
Charles Delaney was enjoying is cup of coffee while sitting at the small table in his room. He was reading the newspaper and read about the kidnappings from the night before. He wasn't a resident of Sunndyale, just an insurance salesman passing through. This town was one of his best customers and he always made it a point to come here at least three times a year. Some of the residents had come here not wanting to stay in the ransacked neighborhoods. Still, he was surprised when he read about the kidnappings and how it had been done by people in monster costumes. Just as he was about to take another sip of his coffee his door was busted down.
Charles spit his coffee out and just barely held on to the cup. "What the Hell?!!"
Before his eyes was a demon over six feet tall with green and brown skin. It was bald and had two spears sticking out of its wrists. Charles had no idea how true his response was. The polgara demon was truly from hell.
"Stay human, come in tengo." Said the polgara demon.
Charles was even more surprised when another demon came through the door. This one was shorter, around 5'5 or so. It was also yellow and had various pieces of armor around its body. It had sharp claws on its hand and feet. It also had two sharp teeth on each lip. He supposed this was the tengo the other creature talked about. The creature then started to walk toward him. Suddenly Charles looked back at his paper. It all clicked. These were the things that kidnapped all those people last night. Only he could tell that these were not costumes, they were the real thing. The tengo started to lifts its hands showing black pores on its palm. Charles didn't know what they were for but knew it couldn't be good. As the demon was about to grab him he did the only thing he could think of. He lifted his cup and threw the coffee into the tengo's face.
The tengo screamed in pain and covered its burning eyes. Charles took this distraction and raced to the bathroom. The polgara was blocking the door so he knew he couldn't get through there. Once in the bathroom he slammed the door and locked it. He then opened the window and jumped onto the fire escape. He turned to run down when he came face to face armored man pointing some kind of gun at him. The man said nothing and held the gun on the man.
"Come on guy, we can work this out. I got money, you want money? I don't know why you're working with these monsters but-"
"Quiet human." Said the armored solider.
Charles shut his mouth and starting thinking what to do. As he did he heard screams from all over the motel. He came to the conclusion that he wasn't the only one being attacked.
Just as he was about to rush his new opponent he felt two arms grab him around his shoulders. He then was lifted a good two feet off the air. He turned his head and saw the tengo was the one holding him. Its eyes were red and twitching. It had to be the same one he threw coffee at. Obviously it had taken little time in braking down the bathroom door. As he continued to look at it in fear he could swear it was smiling. Suddenly white wrapping came out of the pores he saw earlier and starting wrapping around his entire body. He screamed and tried to struggle free but it was useless. Soon he couldn't talk at all when the wrapping covered his mouth. Tears came down his eyes and his body shook from the sobs, he knew this was the end. The wrappings then covered his eyes and all he saw was blackness.
All around the motel similar things were taking place. The demons and soldiers would keep the humans still while the tengo's changed them. Just like last night the people were caught off guard and put up little of a fight. Except unlike last night the police did actually arrive before the demons left.
Back on the street two police car were pulling up to the motel with their sirens on.
"This is officer Kelly, me and my partner are responding to a distress call from the motel manager. It seams like those guys in costume have stuck again. Requesting all available back-up come to the scene. Again the location is-"
Officer Kelly was interrupted as a spear went right through his windshield and into his chest. Officer Kelly dropped the radio and slumped over. The steering wheel went crazy and the police car went out of control. Officer Kelly's partner grabbed the wheel and tried to regain control. But it was too late as the car ran into a lamp post making an abrupt stop. Officer Kelly's partner had released his seatbelt reaching for the wheel and was thrown through the glass from the impact. His bloodied body flew ten feet before hitting the ground. He skipped twice before coming to a stop. He was alive but his body was badly crippled. He tried to raise himself once only to have his body give out and slumped to the ground unconscious.
The officers in the other police car saw the crash but continued their destination. There duty was to protect its citizens, and that's exactly what they would do. They saw the monsters and armored soldiers in front of them and only put more pressure on the gas.
Three of the soldiers raised their weapons and fired their lasers at the oncoming police car. The blast hit the hood, windshield, and tires. The car swerved and flipped on its side. It continued to roll over and over right at them. They noticed this and ran to avoid the collision. Not all were successful as the car fell on top of one solider and a girath demon. They were killed instantly as the upside down car burst into flames.
"Damnit!!" yelled one of the soldiers seeing the death of two of his companions. He didn't care about the demon but was upset at the lost of a fellow soldier. He deserved a more honorable death than that. There was no honor in being killed by a inferior being, and these humans were definitely inferior beings. The soldier was taken away from his musing by the sounds of more sirens approaching. He cursed this and retrieved his radio. "This is the perimeter chief, law enforcement vehicles have arrived earlier than expected. Have already destroyed two units but have lost two of our own as well. Suggest you quicken the pace up there."
There was silence for a while "This is team leader I company. We are finishing up now. I'll send some men down to assist you. Hold off the enemy units until then."
"Understood team leader, over and out." Turned his attention to the others. "They're wrapping things up and are sending down more men to assist us. Continue to hold until they arrive." The demons and soldiers nodded and prepared for the oncoming police cars.
Riley was becoming more upset by the minute. Buffy was gone and they were just standing around. True they were helping team Striker as they slowly awoke. It was also true they had no idea where to look for Buffy or the aliens or Faith. As that name crossed his mind Riley saw red. The two Striker members who saw the fight had described what happen. As he heard the numerous injuries Buffy sustained he had lost it. He had screamed at the two demanding why they hadn't intervened. They had answered that the two were out of their league and they would have only got in the way. They also reminded him that he ordered them to stay put until he arrived. After that he had closed his mouth and walked away angrily.
Trying to reclaim his calm he looked around himself thinking like a soldier. The resurrected Striker members would be of no help for hours. Faith had really hurt them badly. One member's wrist was shattered and the others had similar broken bones. Blake, the team leader, while no the broken bones was in no condition to fight. He was still wobbly on his legs and looked to have a concussion. He would have to assign the uninjured two to another team. That now left him with three teams instead of four. The Initiative was taking a horrible beating. This further decreased their chances of a victory for tonight's inevitable battle.
Riley was brought out of his thoughts by his radio going off. That had meant nothing but bad news for the past two days and he doubted now was any different. He was right.
"Calling agent Finn, this is Orion team. We got big trouble at the Motel 6 on Carter Street. Demons have it under siege and aren't letting anyone near the place. The police have engaged them and have a few confirmed kills. However they losing ground the longer the battle goes on. Some of Sirius' armed soldiers are here and their weapons are superior. Not to mention the demons thick skin makes it hard for the bullets to hit anything vital. Request permission to assist the police in stopping this threat. Our battery packs are fully charged and we have all our gear on."
Riley hesitated in giving them the order to proceed. If they helped his men would be seen and the Initiative would no longer be a secret. This was a military unit that was always suppose to work in stealth and behind the scenes. Openly assisting the police was banned. Then again the Initiative didn't really exist anymore. Their headquarters was destroyed and the government would deny all knowledge of their existence. They were fighting for themselves, and their fallen comrades.
"You have a go Orion team. Team Alpha and Delta will arrive as soon as possible. Stay alive, we've lost enough troops. That's an order."
"Yes sir, we won't let you down." The transmission ended.
Riley looked to the others and told them to gather around. He quickly told them what happen and that they had to move fast.
"They're attacking in broad daylight?!! But…But… Adam and Sirus agreed to leave the city alone until sunset." Said Xander in exasperation.
"Yeah, and it's real unusual for the bad guys to break their word." Said Forrest sarcastically.
Xander scowled at him and started to open his mouth.
"Shut-up, the both of you. There's no time for your childish bickering. If you two can't keep it together I'm sending you back to the Magic Box. I won't have distractions on this team." Said Riley in a fierce voice.
Forrest and Xander continued to scowl at each other before finally looking away and looking at Riley.
"Alright then, let's get the jeeps and move out."
Inside their dreams the slayers continue their conversation. Faith had already finished hers. Buffy had asked a few questions and had a few comments but for the most part she had listened. On the parts where Faith became choked up or cried she hugged the other girl and gave her encouraging words. When Faith had fished she was exhausted from her story as well as from the sobs that racked her body. Buffy wanted to cry as well from the all the things Faith had been through from her life. Faith was right in that if there situation were reversed she would have the done the same. Although Buffy doubted she would have been as strong as Faith. Faith had really cried at the memory of the mayor putting her under a spell. She had gone there to do the undercover thing and ended up being used again by someone who said they cared for her. Faith's descriptions and feelings about the Mayor and what he done to her nearly broke Buffy's heart. Faith had apologized dozens of times while Buffy told her it was okay.
When Buffy's turn came Faith learned that her life wasn't as perfect as she thought it was. She had learned about Buffy teased by other kids because how short she was. How Buffy listened to her mother and father fight every other night always believing it was her fault. How Buffy had to play the part of a air head and boy crazy girl just to get friends. How she did all her chores and homework trying to play the perfect child so her parents would stop arguing. Despite Faith's past she had always been herself. She never tried to play the part someone else wanted her to. Faith had been real, Buffy hadn't. She had tried to please everyone else without thinking about the things that made her happy. To make matters worse it had all been for nothing. She had lost her so called friends and her parents had split up. Buffy cried in agony and Faith held her as Buffy did for her. Faith became disgusted with herself for ever trying to hurt this girl. She vowed they would make this friendship work, no matter what. When Buffy came to Faith's part in her life she was surprised at the happiness there. Buffy admitted that she was jealous at first but had grown to like Faith. She enjoyed spending time with her and being herself. She felt that Faith was the only person in the world that truly understood her. She didn't have to pretend with her, Faith wanted and liked who she was. Then it came time when Buffy apologized about keeping Angel a secret and not being there for her during the Finch time.
Ultimately both slayers stories ended on that fateful night at Faith's apartment. They clung to each other with all their strength and cried at what they had driven each other to. They both admitted that they never wanted it to come to that and that they hated it ever did. What was never spoken aloud was that for them to feel such anger there had to be an equal amount of love. Only the betrayal of that love could have driven them both to such lengths. However despite the truth spell neither was willingly to admit that part. Although this bond was strong it was still new. They would need time for those other emotions to come to the surface.
Finally with both slayers lying on the bed holding each other for dear life with dried tears on their face they said those three magical words together.
"I forgive you."
Back in the real world Sarah was knocked off her feet and thrown against the wall of the crypt. Randor and Edward rushed toward her. They bent down beside her checking for injuries and asking her if she was okay and what happen.
Sarah raised her head and looked at up them in tears.
"Please don't cry child, we'll fix whatever's wrong" said Edward.
"Yeah Sarah, just tell us where it hurts. I have some first aid training and I-" began Randor only to be interrupted.
"You two don't understand. I'm not crying from pain, I'm crying because I'm happy."
"What?!" the two males said together.
"Look" said Sarah pointed behind them.
Edward and Randor looked behind them and their eyes went wide and their jaws hung open.
The two slayers were glowing orange and their bodies were three feet off the ground. Their bodies then moved up in an upright position and they were now standing on the ground while still asleep. If that wasn't enough right before their eyes all the injuries that the slayer's sustained disappeared in seconds. Their muscles expanded and their features became more pronounced. They also noticed for the first time that the slayers were holding hands. The light started to fade until it was gone completely.
"It's so beautiful" Sarah said with tears still rolling down her eyes. Just before she had been pushed away she felt pure happiness from the two. Never in her life had she felt such a thing. She thanked the ancients that she was able to experience the emotion before the end of her life.
"It certainly is a sight to behold." Edward agreed.
"I can't believe it, they're completely healed." Randor looked back at Sarah "Did you do that?" He asked in astonishment.
Sarah shook her head "I helped a little but it was mostly them. Whatever happen in their dreams has strengthened their bond greatly. I truly believe with these two anything is possible."
"I hope you're right, for all our sakes" said Randor.
The slayers slowly opened their eyes and looked right at the three.
"Well if it isn't the costume freaks. Just where the hell are we and who are you people?" said Faith her body starting to tense. She relaxed some when she felt pressure in her left hand. She looked and saw a hand holding hers. She followed the arm and looked into the face of Buffy. Buffy gave her a reassuring smile and Faith automatically gave one right back.
"To answer your question we are in what I believe you refer to as a crypt. As for who we are that is a long story." Said Edward.
"Would that story happen to be you are three rebels from another planet in hiding from Kalis and his armies because you have something that he wants very badly?" Buffy said.
The three looked at her in shock.
"How could you possibly know that" said Edward.
"From a guy named Sirus. Big guy made out of fire and has a bad temper. This ring any bells?"
They numbly nodded.
"You mean Sirus is here, on Earth?" said Randor in what sounded like panic.
"Yeah, and he's teamed up with a Frankenstein demon named Adam. Those two along with their army of minions have given me to sundown to bring you to them and hand over the artifact in your possession."
"No, you can't give it to him. With this artifact Kalis would have them all and become unstoppable." Said Sarah.
Faith, who had been a silent listener to this point, turned and looked at Buffy.
"I don't remember you saying anything about this stuff B. I thought we weren't holding back anymore." Said Faith slightly hurt.
Buffy turned to her and grabbed her hand with both of hers.
"I wasn't trying to keep it from you Faith. I just didn't mention it because I didn't want you to think I wanted us to work it out just so you could help me fight. That was us time, I didn't want to ruin it with things going on in the outside world. Please say you believe me." Said Buffy.
Faith looked at Buffy and her doubts faded. She knew Buffy was telling her the truth and was glad she wasn't trying to be her friend just to be her weapon.
"I believe you B, and you don't have to worry about me helping you. From now on we're in this together, I be by your side no matter what."
"The same goes for me" replied Buffy.
They remained looking in each others eyes forgetting everything else around them.
The three looked at the slayers hesitate to break the moment. However with the news Sirus had arrived and allied himself with demons here time was of the essence.
"I apologize for interrupting but we do have a lot of things to discuss. You said you're supposed to deliver us by sun down and …" Edward trailed off.
Buffy and Faith broke their gaze and turned their attention back to the three.
"Yeah, and if I don't he's going to kill the hostages he took last night. As well as burn Sunnydale and one city an hour until I do."
"That bastard, Sirus hasn't changed one bit" said Randor in anger.
"He even attacked and undercover military instillation yesterday. He destroyed it and the people there. He also released all the demons that were in cells there. Luckily some of the members were gone and are currently helping us. Still, Adam's and Sirus' combined army outnumber us 5 to 1. Even with Faith helping us our chances aren't good that we would be victorious."
"That might not be true… I'm sorry I don't know your name. My name is Edward, and my two associates here are Randor and Sarah. I'm a scientist as well as an historian. Randor is a soldier and Sarah is a mage, or witch if you prefer."
"Nice to meet you all, and my name is Buffy. My friend here is Faith."
"Sorry about knocking you out Ran. I wasn't exactly myself then." Said Faith.
"I know, don't worry about it. I too was acting unlike myself. I also apologize for hitting you in the back of the head."
"That was you? Well don't worry about it, it turned out for the best." She said turning to Buffy.
Buffy had a small blush on her face.
"Yes, I'm glad my truth spell and my healing one helped you. Although you did most of the work on the latter." Said Sarah.
"Truth spell?" both slayers asked at the same time.
"Yes" pointing to Faith "You were under a spell and the only way to reverse it was for you to confront the focal point of the spell. In this case it was at Buffy."
"I see, no wonder we were both being so truthful. I'll let it go since you helped us but I would prefer you take it off now. I don't know you three well enough to tell you my secrets." Said Faith.
"There's no need, as soon as you awoke the spell was broken. It wasn't a strong spell and your slayer powers destroyed it when you were healed. I wouldn't have been able to cast the spell if your bodies weren't already weakened and you were asleep." Said Sarah.
"Hold on, you know we're slayers?" said Buffy.
"Yes young lady, you're the reason that we came to this planet. We need your help." Said Edward.
"Yeah, from Sirus and this Kalis guy about some artifacts. I got that part, the part I don't understand is how you knew I was a slayer." Said Buffy.
"Quite simply my books have vast information on various planets. During our escape I was tasked of finding one that had people that could help us against Kalis' forces." Said Edward.
"Earth was the best choice? You mean there aren't stronger beings in the galaxy than a slayer?" said Faith in disbelieve.
"You really don't know the true extent of your power. But to answer your question there were possible better choices but for sake of time I chose Earth." Replied Edward.
"Whoa, what do mean we don't know the true extent of our powers? You're saying we have more than just strength and speed?" said Faith in astonishment.
"Oh yes, much more than that. I can't tell you exactly because the power depends of the person and their experiences in life. If you allow me and Sara to help you we can bring these powers to the surface so you can use them."
Faith looked to say something else but Buffy beat her to it.
"This is all interesting but I think we should get out of here. My friends and the commandoes are probably wondering where we are. Not to mention it would be better for you to tell all of us your story so you won't have to repeat it. Just how did you get us here anyway? It seems unlikely that you carried our dead weight here."
"Actually I did a teleportation spell. My magic is running low but I can perform another to take us where you want to go."
"Good, I want you to teleport us to the Magic Box. The more knowledge we have the better prepared we'll be." Said Buffy.
"I've always been the beat the shit out the bad guys and ask questions later kind of girl. But I'm flexible, I'll try anything once. Feel free to test that out anytime B" said Faith giving a leer.
Buffy blushed an unhealthy shade of pink and shook her head at Faith. Faith was back to her innuendos again. Buffy was glad to see something's stayed the same. She turned her attention to the girl named Sarah.
"Ready whenever you are."
"I'm afraid I don't know where this Magic Box is." Said Sarah.
"Oh, oops" said Buffy blushing again.
"It's not a problem, just picture it in your mind and my magic will do the rest." Assured Sarah.
"Do we need to hold hands are something?" asked Faith. She didn't know much about magic and preferred to stay away from it when she could.
"No, just leave everything to me" said Sarah. She closed her eyes and concentrated on the people around her. Then she concentrated on the place in Buffy's mind. She said a few words and they disappeared in a flash of light.
A few minutes earlier
"Damnit what the hell are these things!!" officer Jenson yelled behind his police car.
Since the destruction of the first two police cars and its officers 8 police cars and 15 officers had arrived on the scene. At present three police cars were destroyed and two not far from the same fate. Six more cops had been killed, none of the deaths pretty. The police weren't the only ones suffering losses. Three more demons had been killed and another three wounded. However the police could do nothing against the alien armor of the soldiers. To make matters worse more demons and soldiers were coming out of the hotel joining the fight. There was no way the remaining officers could hold them off until the more units arrived. In fact there was a chance that the addition of back-up wouldn't make any impact at all.
"How the hell should I know Jenson? Just keep firing to they stop moving" yelled Lieutenant Foxx. As the highest ranking cop on the scene he was coordinating their attack.
"We're just not doing enough damage sir. We should-"
Jenson was cut off by a mace decapitating his head from the rest of his body. The bloodied head rolled across the car roof while the body fell straight to the ground.
Foxx looked at the scene in horror. He then turned his attention to the demon holding the mace. It was one of the blue green ones that spit out some paralyzing goo. It had somehow got past their blockade and hit them close range.
The demon turned its attention to him and jumped off the hood of the car. Foxx raised his arm to fire only to have a laser blast slice through his shoulder. He screamed it pain as his entire right arm fell to the ground with the gun still in its grasp. He grabbed his bloody socket and fell to both knees. He heard footsteps behind him and turned around. He saw one of the armored soldiers holding a recently fired laser gun. It seemed that a couple of them had broken through. The battle was truly ending, they had lost. Down one arm and surrounded on both sides by the enemy he accepted his fate.
"Get it over with you ugly son of a bitch!" He said looking right into the demon's eyes. He was beaten but he wouldn't give this creature the satisfaction of seeing him beg or close his eyes.
The girath demon seemed to understand him and raised its mace for the killing blow. It then brought its mace down right at the man's head for a killing blow.
Foxx saw it coming and never once closed his eyes. Therefore he was surprised when he saw a bolt of electricity hit the demon and send it flying a good five feet backwards. The shock halted the mace's downward path and sent it flying forward. Just over the top of the head of Foxx and right into the armored soldier behind him. The mace hit him in the chest making him stumble. The surprise of the hit made him drop his weapon and it landed on the ground.
Foxx heard the sound of the gun hitting the ground and acted on instinct. He released his bloodied socked and turned himself around. He saw the gun only a few feet from him and dived for it with his remaining hand.
The armored soldier recovered from his stumble and saw Foxx dive for his fallen weapon. Instead of trying to stop him he took a handle from his belt. He then pushed a button on the handle and a light saber came form it. He stepped toward Foxx and raised the light saber over his head.
Foxx reached the gun and brought it against his body. He leveled it against his shoulder so he could fire the big gun with only one hand. He turned in the soldier's direction to see a sword made of light coming right at him. He raised the gun to fire already knowing he would be too late. But luck was with him this day and another thunder bolt hit the side of the armored soldier. The electricity coursed through his armor slowing him down. That proved to be enough as Foxx finally raised the weapon and fired three consecutive shots. Two hit the soldier in the chest and the final in the face. The armor wasn't as resistant to their own weapons and he died before he even hit the ground.
Foxx let out a breath and dropped the gun from lack of strength. He fell on his back as he heard new voices and saw more lighting streak in the sky. He saw two men approach him and bend down asking if he was alright. He didn't have the energy to respond but he did manage to smile. Help had come. He didn't know where they came from are who they were but it didn't matter. These new people gave them all a chance of stopping these monsters. With that thought the smile on his face got bigger and his world went dark.
The commando bent down and checked his pulse. "I'm afraid he's gone sir. Looks like he lost too much blood from the shoulder wound."
"Yeah, but at least he took out the bastard who did it to him."
"Are you sure that's the one?"
"Just look at the smile on his face, that's the one."
Another commando rushed up to the two standing over the corpse of Foxx.
"Sir, we've managed to push the hostiles back behind the barricade the police built. The police have also agreed to work with us. Didn't take much to convince them. They were glad as hell we showed up to help them."
"Good work, hold this position until Delta and Alpha team arrive. I repeat, make sure they all know not to advance on the hostiles. We have to wait for an increase in our numbers. Also see if you can put some of these fires out."
"Consider it done sir" the commando saluted and went off to inform the others.
"You think they'll get here in time sir?"
"I sure hope so agent, I sure hope so." Said the Orion team leader.
"I just don't know what else to do. I've tried every locator spell I know how to do, none of them working. I'm trying my best I really am." Said Willow as tears started to run down her face.
Giles looked over his book at the girl and shook his head. He really didn't know how to comfort people. His watcher training taught him to be informative and passive. Yet his experiences here had shown him that was not the right way to handle things. Not to mention he wasn't even a watcher anymore. He was a regular librarian with a responsibility to these young people. They amazed him everyday by the things they had over come. Things that for surpassed others in their youth. Yet he still had to remember that although in college they were still only children. As the authority figure he would have to comfort as well as support them when the pressure became too much. It was not the idle situation he saw himself in when in his youth himself. But here it was, he would be strong and help them in their time of need.
Giles got up from his desk and walked over to Willow. He then took the girl into an embrace that she accepted eagerly. As Willow cried into his shoulder he stroked her hair and gave her comforting words. To some this moment might have seen romantic. But to those who knew the two it was simply platonic, a father soothing their child.
"Calm yourself Willow; I know you're trying your best. Everyone is doing all they can to save those people. Even the police are making and appearance, and you know how rare it is for them to actually show up." Said Giles. Adding the last part to lighten the mood.
It had the required effect as Willow started to giggle in Giles' shoulder. She then raised her head and looked up at Giles with tearful eyes.
"Thank you." She said quietly.
Giles returned the smile and gave her a fatherly kiss on the head. He then released her from the embrace and stepped back. Then he did something uniquely Giles. He took of his glasses and started to clean them. A ritual he did every time he was uncomfortable or showing a lot of emotion.
Willow giggled even more at his and was feeling more relaxed. She was glad that she had a friend like Giles. He truly was a like a parent to her and the other Scooby's. Her parents barely acknowledged her existence.
"I hope Buffy and the commando's are having better luck than we are." Said Willow.
"As do I, the situation so far is looking grim. Even with the commando's assisting us the coming force of Adam and Sirus have us at an extreme disadvantage. Even if we were to find these people we seek there is little guarantee they will honor their word and release the hostages. Not to mention it wouldn't be right to just hand over three lives to monsters like them. We have to find a way to take control." Said Giles.
Willow nodded her head and thought about that. Suddenly something that Giles said earlier started to pop in her head.
"Giles, do you remember what you said about the police a minute ago?" asked Willow.
"Yes, I was attempting to lighten the mood. I don't usually result to humor but-"
"What I'm trying to say is that they are a source. It is actually their job to protect this town, so why don't we use them." Said Willow in an excited voice.
Giles paused to look at the red head. Like he said he only mentioned the Sunnydale police as a joke. Because as long as he resided in this town that is exactly what they were. How a town could have so many murders an no one be the wiser was unfathomable to him. Even after the events of last night the police put it off to people in costume. Although their assistance would increase their numbers he wasn't sure how they would even go about convincing the police that demons ands aliens were real.
Willow took his silence as his disapproval with her idea. "I know we're supposed to be behind the scenes but I think that time has passed. Like you said, this is just too big for us. We need all the help we can get."
Giles continued to look at Willow and consider the points she had made. Just as he was about to offer his own opinion he was interrupted by the radio receiver. The commandoes had left it here so they could coordinate everybody's movements.
Both Giles and Willow looked at the receiver and listened.
"This is Finn to base; we are now arriving at the Motel 6 on Carter Street. Orion Team reported to us 10 minutes ago of an attack by demons there. The police arrived first on the scene and engaged the hostiles. Unfortunately they are outmatched and are suffering casualties. Gave permission for Orion team to intervene and assist the policemen. Have already contacted Delta team and should be here in 4 minutes. Will attempt to stop siege as well as capture a hostile for interrogation for the location of the hostages. Striker team is currently inactive therefore leaving remainder of city unprotected. I realize this could be an error in judgment but feel there is no other choice. Moral is low, must make a stand to heighten confidence. Engaging hostiles now, will report in when able." With that the signal was cut.
Giles and Willow looked at each other in shock. Willow then jogged over to the compute making sure it had typed everything Riley said. She had hooked it up to record all transmissions coming over the receiver. That way they would have access to their dealings and look for any information they might have missed.
"I don't think the police are ignorant of the demons anymore. I think the chance of them helping us just went up." Said Willow while reading what was on the computer.
Giles once again took of his glasses and rubbed his nose.
"I would have to agree, but remember Riley's report. He said they had suffered some losses. I'm not sure how many will be available for tonight's confrontation." Said Giles wearily.
Willow turned away from the computer and over at him with wide eyes. Obviously she had forgotten that part and its significance. Just as she was about to turn back to the computer a bright light engulfed the room. Giles and Willow covered their eyes instinctively waiting for the glow to disappear. Once it did they uncovered their eyes and were presented with another surprise. Right in front of their eyes was the two slayers, Buffy and Faith. Their appearance was so shocking that they barely noticed them holding hands or the other two three people beside them.
"Oh my god Buffy, where have you been?!" Willow almost screamed as she ran up to Buffy. But she stopped a few feet away remembering Faith was right beside her. "What that hell are you doing here? Aren't you suppose to be somewhere in a coma." Willow said angrily looking at Faith with narrow eyes. vIf Faith was offended by Willow's words she didn't show it. Instead she shook her head and smiled.
"Woke up a couple of days ago Red. It's good to see you too, you haven't changed a bit."
"I've changed a lot; I'm a really strong witch now so you better watch out."
Faith laughed.
"Moved past lifting pencils huh? Good for you, from what Buffy tells me you help her out now."
"I've always been there to help Buffy, unlike some people."
Faith ignored the dig. "Yeah, but now you're actually more than a distraction. Hell, even X has contributes with his soldier training. Although I got to tell you B I'm still having trouble believing that one."
"Just wait until you see him Faith, then you'll be convinced. He's with Riley and the other commando's right now patrolling the city." Said Buffy.
"Patrolling the city, commandos, man things really change in 8 months. This wouldn't have anything to do with that Adam and Sirus guy you mention earlier would it?"
"Yeah, and to tell you everything will take a while so just be patient."
"Excuse me, but what are you two doing. Buffy she's evil; she tried to kill all of us. You two are sworn enemies and yet you're talking like you're long time friends." Said Willow in exasperation.
"Been there, done that." Responded Faith nonchalantly.
Buffy gave Faith a glare which she ignored until finally turning back to Willow. "It's complicated, but Faith and I are no longer enemies. We've resolved our differences and she has agreed to help us against this new threat."
"Help us like she did against the mayor." Willow said with venom.
Faith released Buffy's hand and walked toward Willow. To the red head's credit she didn't step back, but she didn't look Faith in the eye either.
"You obviously have a problem with me Red, and who can blame you. Putting a knife to anyone's throat would make you weary of them. But let's get something straight, all that stuff is in the past. The present is these lunatics running around killing and kidnapping people. Whatever issues you have with me we can discuss later. But not now, those people, Adam, Sirus, and their armies are the main priority. All other bullshit will have to wait, understand?" said Faith.
Willow finally looked into Faith's eyes and so her determination. She then looked around her and over to Buffy who was giving her a small smile. Willow then looked back at Faith and slowly nodded her head.
"But this doesn't mean I trust you." Said Willow regaining her confidence.
"That's fine, I don't trust you either. The same goes for you G- man. You've been silent over there for a long time." Said Faith.
"Indeed Faith, I'm not sure where to begin. I believe Willow has said the main points and you have given the appropriate answers. Whether you're sincere has yet to been seen. However I am curious about your statement about trusting Willow and myself."
"Simple, you've done nothing in the past that shows me you deserve my trust. What with Red here on her jealous trips trying to turn Buffy against me at every turn. As for you, getting rid of me during Buffy's Cirum whatever showed how much respect she showed for slayers. I actually thought you were different, but you showed yourself just to be another Council tool. Are those appropriate answers G-man?" said Faith.
Giles turned his head to the side while Willow looked at the ground. What Faith had said was true and neither could deny it.
"I think everybody needs to learn to trust each other, and in time we will. But for right now Faith is right, the hostages, Adam, Sirus, and their armies are our primary concern. Now to shed some light on Sirus and his crew are these three people, the one's Sirus wanted us to find for him." Said Buffy turning to the three people with her and Faith.
Giles and Willow looked at the trio as they did the same. The alien trio had remained silent watching the interaction of the group of people who would help them. The animosity between the dark slayer and the others was apparent. They hoped they stayed true to their word and concentrated on the present issues and save the rest for another time.
"Allow us to introduce ourselves, my name is Edward, the young man in armor is Randor, and the young lady is Sarah. What Buffy says is true, we are the one's Sirus seeks. His master wants this artifact vary badly and will do anything to get. The same goes for us as we will do anything to ensure that he doesn't get it."
"Sirus only briefly mentioned Kalis in our earlier encounter. Can you perhaps give us more information on him? Is he as truly powerful as Sirus says he is? Also why does he want the artifact is your possession so badly?" said Giles going into research mode and trying to learn as much as possible about their opponent.
"Those are all very good questions and I will do my best to answer them." Began Edward.
"Just not now, we need to get the others here so they can here this too. Where is everyone right now Willow?" said Buffy going into leader roll.
Willow shook herself from all this new information and turned to Buffy. "The commando's are all on their way to a Motel 6."
"Didn't like the accommodations here I take it." Said Faith.
Willow scowled at her for a second before turning back to Buffy. "A combination of demons and Sirus' soldiers are attack it. The police have confronted them but according to Riley they're getting creamed. He's commanded all his teams there to help in stopping the demons and even capturing one if possible." Said Willow.
"That son of a bitch, I should have known he wouldn't keep his word and not attack until tonight."
"They're the bad guys B, it's what they do. Since we're the good guys it's our jobs to kick their butts, it's what we do." Said Faith.
"Your ability to break down the situation into a few simple words always amazes me. Although in this situation I'm not sure we can afford to. With the commando's and most of the police force at the motel that leaves the rest of Sunnydale vulnerable to attack. If we join the others there will be no more good guys left to fight the bad guys if they appear at other places. As much as I hate to say it, and I really do, we can't afford to join Riley. The numbers game is just to heavily favored by the bad guys." Finished Buffy with a frown.
The others looked at her in shock and look prepared to protest.
"She's right, we can't do it. I know I still don't have all the information but Buffy is right. This could be a diversion tactic for demons to attack all over the city. We're be needed to confront those. Just how many people are in a commando unit B?" said Faith.
"Each unit has six members, which means with three teams there are eighteen commandos there." Answered.
"That sounds like a good number to me. With the police the numbers will be even more. Do we know how many demons and aliens are there?" Said Faith looking at Willow.
Willow looked at Faith debating whether to answer when she remembered what Faith said earlier. Their personal issues would have to wait. "Riley didn't give us a number, only that the police couldn't handle it. The report is on the computer over there if you want to see for yourself."
Faith nodded her head and went to the computer to read the report.
"I fear you are right Buffy. But if Sirus' and Adam's forces to attack somewhere else are you sure Faith and you alone could stop them?" said Giles.
"Good question, and the simple answer we have no choice. We must survive for the main event tonight, being taken out before then is not a option." Buffy said with determination.
"Neither is being taken out at the main event. We'll come, we'll fight, we'll win." Said Faith with equal determination as she read Riley's report.
The Scooby's and the aliens looked at the two slayers. They had heard the strength of their convictions and it gave them hope. With these two on their side they may just pull of the impossible.
Back at Motel 6 the combined force of Orion, Alpha, and the police and driven the aliens and demons back. Orion had suffered two casualties before Alpha arrived but they had returned the favor by double. For the first time in the past few days the bad guys were on the losing side. They had left the street and barricaded themselves inside the rooms shooting from the windows are the fire escape. The two forces of commandos and policemen and surrounded the building leaving the demons and aliens no room to escape. They were slowly closing end on them preparing to end this fight.
"How the hell could we be trapped by these pathetic humans? We are far superior and yet we are cowering with these demons. We've lost nearly half of those who came, and the humans are coming closer every minute. Where the hell is that back-up you called in Commander?" said one of the armored soldiers to his command officer.
The commander looked at the man for a while before responding. "They will be here in five minutes. Control yourself soldier, I know you were trained better than that. The losses we have suffered pale to what we have gained. The Tengo's have cocooned 22 humans and will then hatch they will join are army. So control yourself and hold this position until our help arrives. If you are unable to do this I will gladly give your station to someone else, perhaps one of the demons."
At that the soldier stiffened. Being replaced was bad enough, but for a lowly demon to take his place was a direct insult to his honor. He stood up straight and saluted his commanding officer.
"That will not be necessary sir, your orders will be carried out."
"Good soldier, I'm going to check on our transport for the eggs." Said the commander walking off.
A girath demon walked over to the soldier once the commander had gone.
"This stupid, should have never come here. Have people at cave could have used."
The soldier turned to look at the blue green demon. He silently agreed with the demon had said but would never let the beast do that.
"Your master wanted those humans untouched. Besides, this lets the slayer and her friends know we are serious on our threat to attack her precious town if she doesn't help us."
"Too much capturing, want to kill" said the girath.
"By means go out there and give it a try. You should last a good five seconds."
The girath growled and looked ready to spit out its paralyzing goo.
"Just try it demon, my armor protects me from your effects. Now if you're done complaining go back to your window and watch to see if they charge us." Said the soldier.
The girath demon growled again, then turned around and walked to the window." The soldier watched him go in disgust.
"The sooner we get off this planet the better" he muttered.
Outside the motel other conversations were going on.
"We can't go in until we know the status of the people in there. We have them surrounded so I think it's time we started to negotiate." Said Captain Reeves.
Riley shook his head at the man. "Captain, I thought you would have got it through your head by now that these aren't people in costume. These are real demons, they know nothing of negotiating. I don't know much about the soldiers but I'm pretty sure they won't negotiate either."
"You mean the alien soldiers?" asked Reeves still skeptical.
"Believe what you want, I can't waste more time trying to convince you. My point is if we want to save those people we are going to have to take them by force. I know we'll lose some but I am certain that this is our best course of action." Said Riley.
The captain looked at him for a few minutes before shaking his head. "There has to be another way. I'm open to what you're saying these things are but brute force should always be a last resort. I don't think we're to that point yet."
"If you think that you're incompetent. Just look around you, the losses your men have suffered." Riley said pointing behind him.
Reeves looked around and saw what Riley meant. Nearly a dozen of his men lay across the street. Some missing body parts, others so bloody that their own mothers would recognize him. If it weren't for the commando's they would have lost even more.
Riley saw the expression on Reeves face and knew he was cracking on his resolve not to use force. He decided to tell him one more thing to tip the scales.
"Another reason we should charge them is that they aren't alone. There are a lot more demons and aliens who could come to their aid. If we don't hurry they could arrive and we would find ourselves outnumbered. In that scenario all the hostages and we die as well." Said Riley.
Reeves looked away from his fallen men and back at Riley. He held his gaze for a few seconds before finally nodding.
"Deputy Atkins, get over here" he yelled.
A young deputy with brown hair jogged over to him.
"I want you to tell the men that we're about to charge the place in-" he stopped to look at Riley.
Riley held up two fingers.
"-two minutes. These guys are playing hardball for aim to kill. Of course try to avoid hitting the hostages themselves." Finished Reeves.
The deputy gave him a salute and jogged off to tell the rest of the men.
Riley saw this and brought up his own radio. "Team leaders Orion and Delta alert your teams that we going to charge the motel in two minutes in an joint effort with the police. Team Orion you will have your team attack the lower levels. Team Delta you will attack the high levels. My Alpha team will spread out meeting you in the middle and assisting where needed. Make sure that none of the hostiles escape. Set you weapons to kill, only use stun if a hostile is alone and of no threat. We still need someone to question the locations of the other hostages. As always attempt to keep death of friendly's at a minimum, Riley out." He cut the signal. He didn't wait for feedback from his men because he knew they would follow his orders without question. He checked his weapon one more time and counted down the seconds.
"Something is going on out there; they seem to be getting in some kind of formation." Said a soldier to his Commander.
The Commander walked over and looked out the window his soldier was looking out of. He saw the humans moving around and grouping into pairs. He also saw them talking to each other in unrestrained excitement.
"I believe they are preparing to charge us. I'm surprised that it took them this long." The commander said quite calmly.
"We can't push back at full assault sir, the numbers and position is not to our favor. Not to mention out back-up has still not arrived." Said the soldier.
The commander was about to turn to him when he suddenly saw something out the window. Then a small smile grazed his face inside his helmet.
"It seems that our back-up is finally arrived." He said.
The soldier looked at him and then looked out the window himself. At first he didn't see anything, but then he did. He gasped out the sight.
"That's our back-up, that's all that they send to help us?" he said incredulously.
"Trust me soldier, it's all the back-up we need." Said the commander once again calm.
"All right men, one minute and counting. Remember to get every thing you got and take down these son's of bitches." Said Riley into his radio.
He knew that this was it. This was the first step in taking the town back. They would free the people in the motel then find out where the other hostages were and do the same. Everyone really needed a victory to regain their confidence from the horror of these past few days. Also before this day was done he would find Buffy and make Faith pay for what she did, this he swore.
Riley started to walk forward with the others as the seconds ticked down. They were almost to the building when he suddenly heard a sound over his head. He turned around just in time to see a missile heading their way.
"EVERYBODY DOWN!!" he yelled desperately as he dived to the ground.
Some then dive to the ground while others turned to look at him, that was a mistake.
They landed in a herd of them and exploded. The ground shook from the impact and policemen and commandos alike were incinerated in the fire. A few lucky ones were simply blown off their feet.
"What the hell was that?"
"My God he's dead."
"Where did that come from?"
"He's on fire put him out."
Everyone was talking at once from the surprise attack. The commandos made a effort to get in a defensive position while the cops simply panicked running around.
Riley slowly got to his feet and observed the scene. He saw the fire and realized that Delta team had been in that area. Bodies littered around the area of the blast, some moving some not. He didn't know how many they had lost and didn't have time to figure it out. What he did have to figure out is where the missile came from. He talked into his radio.
"All teams report, where did that projectile come from? Perform defensive movements for possible second strike."
"This is team leader of Orion. My team got hurt from the shock waves but there are no casualties. Spreading out now to determine source of projectile."
"Good, team leader Delta what is your status." Said Riley.
The only thing he got back was static. It seems his worst fears were true that Delta team had been in the blast area and taken out.
"What the hell just happen Agent Finn." Said Captain Reeves coughing from the smoke.
"That's what my men and I are trying to find out Captain. Tell your men to pull back from the motel, with this unknown variable we can't afford to charge it now."
"I'll tell whoever is still alive to listen. This is turning into one shitty day Agent Finn."
"I couldn't agree with you more sir." Agreed Riley.
"Sir, this is Orion team leader, we've just spotted the hostile who attacked us."
"Who the hell is?" said Finn.
"You're not going to like this sir, but it's Adam."
Riley almost dropped his radio when he heard that.
"Adam?!! He's the one who attacked us? But that's impossible, he has the powers and abilities of different demons and none of them can shoot missiles." Said Riley.
"From I can see sir his right arm appears to be a rocket launcher. I think he made some modifications to his design."
"Obviously, what is he doing now?" asked Riley.
"He seems just to be staring at the motel admiring his work. I don't think he sees us yet. Wait, he just turned in out direction."
"Get back here right now, that's an order!!" yelled Riley into the radio.
"He just retracted the rocket launcher back in his arm. There something else metal that seems to be coming out."
"I gave you an order, get your ass back." Riley yelled again.
"Right away air, we're on our-"
"Orion, what it is it?" said Riley.
"He's got a gallant machine gun sir, looks like eight firing chambers. He's aiming at us-"
"Run Damnit, RUN!!" Riley yelled at the top of his voice.
Riley heard nothing on the other end. He held his breath as the silence lingered. The silence was shattered my loud machine gun fire. He also heard yells in the background. Riley closed his eyes and tried to keep to keep the tears from falling. He knew what kind of damage a gallant gun could do. He knows the gallant gun is a round machine gun with multiple chambers that spins around as it fires. They were generally used in war for mass killings. As the thought came to Riley he suddenly realized that was exactly what this was, a war. So far they were on the losing end.
Riley was brought out of his thoughts as team Orion suddenly vaulted over police cars and jeeps rejoining them. Riley was shocked and this time had to hold back tears of happiness. He ran to the team as fast as he could.
"Thank got you're okay, where's Adam?" he said.
"Still back there, we only got away because Alex acted as a shield and continued shooting at Adam even as he fell. We would all be dead if it wasn't for his sacrifice." Said a commando.
Riley gasped at this and suddenly noticed that Orion was missing one member, its leader.
"Alex is…" Riley started unable to finish.
"Yes sir, I'm afraid so." Said the commando.
Riley said nothing as his teeth and fist clenched.
"Where is Adam now?" Riley said in barely controlled rage.
The commando opened his mouth to answer but was interrupted by the sound of more machine gun fire. They all turn just to see two police cars and one of their jeeps go up in flame from the bullets. Flaming car parts flew in the air and descended down on the commandos and the police. They ran for cover and tried to avoid the best they could. One policeman was unlucky and a flaming piece hit him on the back. He fell and caught on fire. Two members of Alpha team went immediately to him and tried to put out the fire by rolling him. Once the debrie stopped flying all eyes looked at the mountain of fire not knowing what to expect next. They didn't have to wait long as a being came out of the fire unharmed and seemingly in no pain at all. The police didn't know what this monstrosity was but the commandos did. It was the very creation the Initiative scientists had been working on, it was Adam.
Riley looked on with a mixture of rage and horror. Adam looked just he remembered him those weeks ago when he got stabbed. Of course the gallant gun on his arm was new but the rest was the same. His various colors of skin from several demons made him look like something out of a nightmare. Not to mention his face that never had a expression made him look even more deadly. The Initiative was responsible for Adam's birth, they would also be responsible for his death. Riley raised his gun.
"Just don't stand around looking, everybody open fire." He yelled as he fired his gun at full power.
The electric blot hit Adam dead in the chest and then dissipated. The hit didn't falter Adam in the least and he started walking forward raining his gallant gun. The other commandos and policemen followed Riley's lead and all starting firing at Adam. The electric bolts continued to dissipate once hitting Adam and the bullets simply bounced off. Even Captain Reeves high powered shotgun was ineffective against the monster. Adam then squared his gun and began firing from all 8 chambers. The gunned spinned round and round as Adam fired it left to right.
The police and commandos stopped their useless firing and dived out of the way of the bullets. Not all were fast enough and were torn apart by the gun fire. The command's stayed on the moved occasionally firing at Adam if nothing more than to get a lucky shot or at least slow him down. The police knew they were outmatched and hid behind whatever cover they could find.
Mercifully Adam finally ran out of bullets as his gallant gun began to spin empty rounds. If Adam was disappointed by this his expressionless face didn't show it and he retracted the gun bring back his regular arm. The commando's saw this and started to move in on Adam to try firing at close range. Adam then put his fist through the hood of a police car. He then lifted the car with one hand and used it to swat the commandos away like flies. The commando's went flying and hit the ground hard. Then in a show of speed that no one knew he possessed he was standing in front of the fallen commandos. He then brought the car down right on three of them and flatten them right before the car exploded.
Riley and the others watched all this in horror. Adam was far more powerful than they thought. Everyone was paralyzed by indecision when green goo came out of the flames. It hit two commandos and a cop. The goo then seemed through their clothes and then their skin. Now the three couldn't move. Apparently also in Adam's arsenal was the paralyzing goo of the girath demon. Adam then walked out of the flames with a skewer from a polgara demon coming out of his left wrist. He was about to slice up his motionless victims.
Riley saw what Adam was about to do and yelled in fury. He charged at Adam while firing his gun. Adam turned his attention away from his motionless victims and on to Riley. Just as Riley got in range Adam slashed quick as lighting with his skewer.
However Riley had already anticipated this move and ducked under the skewer. He then dived between Adam's legs and dropped his gun. Once through he took off running.
"Everybody close your eyes!" he yelled.
Everyone did so except Adam who looked at Riley's retreating form and then to the gun between his legs. He heard a humming sound coming from it and bent down to examine the weapon. His electronic brain told him it was over loading a second before it exploded. The explosion was immense and very bright. Adam was swallowed in the light and taken from view.
Riley then turned and ran to the motionless. He put the two commandos over his shoulder and yelled for someone to get the cop. Captain Reeves was the first to act and put the deputy over his shoulder as well.
"We have to get out of here, he's not dead." Yelled Riley.
"What about the people inside, we can't just leave them." Said Reeves.
"We don't have any choice, we can do them no good dead. Now get you men together captain and follow us." Answered Riley back as he ran to the remaining jeep with the commando's following his lead getting into whatever car available that wasn't destroyed.
The other police didn't wait for Reeves to give an order and rushed to join the commando's in retreat. He also saw the light clear away showing a hole where the creature who slaughtered so many was before. For one second he thought it might have been destroyed but quickly banished that thought away. Reeves realized the decision was already made and ran off to join the others..
As the collective bunch got into the vehicles the demons and soldiers chose this time to leave their sanctuary. They charged toward the retreating humans eager for vengeance. They were stopped and Adam suddenly jumped out of his hole and went at least ten feet above it. He then came down right beside the hole. The demons and soldiers gave him a look before beginning after the humans again. They were stopped again though when Adam raised his hand in a halt gesture.
"Let them go, you have achieved your goal have you not?" said Adam.
The commander for the mission stepped forward.
"Yes, but how can you just let-"
"I came to assist you, that is what I have done. The humans are leaving and are no longer a threat to the completion of your assignment. If you wish to join in the activity known as revenge you will have to wait until tonight. We still need them to help the slayer find the three aliens. To kill them now would be illogical as well as counterproductive."
"But it would make us feel good." Said a polgara demon with others muttering their agreement.
"Feelings are irrelevant; we must only concentrate on our ultimate goal. Begin loading the eggs onto the trucks. I will remain behind you to ensure that we are not followed back." Said Adam.
The Commander looked at Adam, for a moment before nodding his head. He lead the demons and soldiers back inside to gather the eggs and bring them back out for loading.
Adam for his part watch the commandos and police flee. His family had eyes everywhere and he already knew where they were heading. As he told the others he and Sirus still had use for them and he would leave them unharmed for the moment. However if they did not come to the cemetery tonight with the aliens he would come to them. Except this time neither he or his allies would stop, they would destroy them all.
...to be continued...