The Witch's Council
by Suki
Rating: NC-17
Disclaimer: I own Dorian, Lynn, Shara and Sophie. Joss owns Buffy and
Faith and the rest.
Notes: Sequel to "A Little Letter."
Feedback: Please, Please.
Timeline: August 2002
Beginning of the Coven
Place: New Canaan CT, a 100-acre estate the witch's council
purchased, where they live a communal life.
"Dorian we are so glad you are home."
"Thank you everyone, it's good to finally be home." Dorian walked to each of her sister witches and hugged them. Lynn was the eldest witch and to whom Dorian deferred the most.
"Dorian were you able to get any of the watchers journals or library?"
"A few Lynn not many, I did meet up with Rupert Giles, I spent a few days with him. He filled me in on Faith and Miss Summers, I don't think this is going to be easy."
Shara spoke up, "Dorian Faith will be okay, Anna saw promise in her, and it's the Summers girl I worry about. Her influence on Faith is strong."
"Well according to Rupert there were a lot of unresolved issues with the two, maybe if I can get them to see pass them ….. oh I don't know, she is the longest living Slayer! She is strong, can't you all feel it. She has literally crossed over twice you know what that means. If she dies again she will become an entity…. I don't think anyone has told the girl about this, Rupert didn't know and I was not going to tell him without speaking to you all."
"Yes, we feel it Dorian."
"Sophie you are too quite, tell me what you think."
"Dorian this just might be her destiny, we need to let it run its course, I am sorry I know you want these girls here with us but they do have a destiny, they need to be where they are well needed."
"They need to be together!"
"Dorian don't get angry with us…." Sophie moved to stand next to Dorian. She put her arms around the witch. "We know how you feel about them, we really do. Do you think that maybe you are too close to this to take this assignment?"
"I won't let anyone else do it…. I promised and I keep my promises. I wrote the spell, I know what it entails, and I can handle it."
"I hope so love I really do," Sophie said as she caressed her cheek. "I will miss you when you go."
"I will miss you too Sophie."
"All right ladies what do you say we do this spell, the moon is full, all are present."
With that the 12 witches moved into a circle.
The corners were called……the elements challenged. As Lynn recited the spell the air crackled with energy, the very powers of nature are being called into play. The maternity of Faith's mother was to be taken from her and put into Dorian. This had never been tried and they were all a little concerned. There was no way to check to see if the spell worked …well only when Dorian saw Faith then she would know if it worked.
With the spell finished and the sacred tools put away for the night most present quietly excused themselves and retired to their own cottages on the grounds.
Sophie took off her cloak and approached Dorian, "are you okay?"
"I will be when I see her. Is the release going all right? Did the contact in LA agree to meet her?"
"Yes, Dorian relax I saw to it all myself. She will be released in a week, and your flight leaves in the morning."
Sophie slipped her arms around Dorians neck and pulled her into a soft hug.
"Dorian you know how I feel about you, and yes I know you don't return those feelings, but please know I care what happens to you, please be careful. Faith can be unpredictable. The child has taken a life."
"I know, I read and reread all of Anna's notes…… I know she so much to work through. And Sophie for what it's worth….I kick myself that I don't feel the same way about you. You are a beautiful woman. I will miss you, my friend."
"You better get some rest you have a long journey ahead of you."
*Don't worry Anna I will find her, I'll make it right, I promised didn't I.*
Timeline: L.A., August 2002
Place: Lobby of the Hyperion Hotel.
Faith and Dorian have just returned from dropping Buffy off at the airport.
"Faith don't be sad, you'll see her in two weeks and I am sure you'll talk on the phone a million times before that."
"I know Mia it's just I feel like I am feedin her to the wolves…..She has to face the Scooby gang on her own." Faith flopped down on the sofa.
"Get your feet down," Dorian said as she swatted at her legs. "Move over. Buffy is a strong woman; she'll be okay try not to worry. So, Ummm , how was it Faith…..?"
"What? Eww are you askin what I think you're askin me?"
"Faith please, you are very trying sometimes," Dorian said as she rubbed her temples. "I mean, your well being how do you feel about what happened between you and Buffy?"
"Oh, that. I can't believe it. I feel like I don't deserve it."
"That's a common response Faith. Give it time and Faith you do deserve this."
"Dorian do you feel like my Mom?"
"Faith there is so much you don't know about me…..My life right now is here with you. But, in Connecticut I have a whole other life. The coven is my family, we take care of each other, and we depend on one another."
"Sorry, it's just that since it started the feelings…..I feel this warm buzz around you. It's kinds like the slayer buzz I get from B. I don't expect you to just drop everything for me…"
"Faith stop, you are part of me now, I feel the bond too, I can't help the feelings I am having…..I want to tell you to put on a jacket when you go out, I want to tell you to brush your teeth before bed….get my meaning!"
"Ya, I get it. Thanks Mia. I just never had a Mom so, don't get pissed if I screw up, okay?"
"Okay Faith, but contrary to popular believe I think it's okay for people to 'screw up'. It's all in how you fix your mistakes that counts. Like you and Buffy I am very proud of how you are handling everything."
"Okay Doc…I am done I can only do so much sharing before I breakdown. I'm crashing!"
"Oh and Faith…."
"Yeah?"
"Brush your teeth, and don't swear!"
"Okay Mia, night. Oh by the way tell Kate I said Hi."
"How did you know?"
"That feeling thing,…..ya got to get that fixed, got it?"
"Sure Faith good night."
Sometime later Dorian escorted Kate to her suite upstairs at the Hyperion.
They walked in the suite in silence; Dorian closed the door and leaned against it.
"So detective" …Dorian hardly got the words out before Kate crushed her to the door.
Their lips met with hard passion, Kate twisted Dorian's red locks in her fingers and pulled her head back so Dorian's neck was exposed.
"I know it's only been a couple of days but I missed you" Kate said before she sank her teeth into the delicate white flesh.
"Oh god Kate… you have no idea!"
"I know ….I couldn't wait to see you."
Dorian grabbed Kate by the collar of her leather jacket and pushed it over her shoulders, "you my dear are wearing far too many clothes."
"Is that right" Kate said……"do you think that maybe we are rushing this a little."
Dorian froze her hands halted her exploration of Kate's stomach.
"I'm sorry Kate," she pulled away, Dorian ran her hands through her hair. "I am sorry…. It's been so long since I have felt this, anything for someone. I guess I got carried away."
"Shh don't apologize" Kate said, "I just want you to be sure this is what you want, cuz I want you ….very much. I don't normally go out on a limb like this but I can't get you out of my mind."
"I know the feeling" Dorian said as she sat down on edge of the bed.
"Dorian I just want you to be okay, from what you've said Anna was everything and I…"
"Oh Kate I am sorry …is that what this is about?" Kate sat down next to Dorian and took her hand.
"Well yes, Dorian I want you to be ready."
"Oh Kate, Anna will always have a part of my heart, but she's gone. I miss her sometimes, but it's okay now, I've moved on really."
"Really?" Kate said with a little smirk, then realized that maybe she was being insensitive…"I'm sorry it's just I am happy you're okay."
Dorian cupped Kate's cheek and brought her lips down onto Kate's. It didn't take them long to divest themselves of their remaining clothing.
Kate had never been with a woman like Dorian, she had a full body, long red hair that twisted in corkscrew tendrils, her skin was white and spots were flushed red where Kate had nipped and sucked on the delicate flesh. She reminded Kate of the Irish paintings she had seen as a child in the Museum, a red haired woman on a cliff with ocean spray around her and a long green cloak…..
"Kate, are you okay?"
Dorian was on her stomach and Kate was dragging her fingers up and down her spine.
"Ya….I just had this image of you….it was weird ya know like a dream…?"
"Um really…that feels good," Dorian rested her head on her upper arms and sighed deeply.
Kate stretched her body out over Dorian and kissed her way up to her ear.
"Lift up for me," Dorian raised herself up onto her knees…..Kate's hand traveled down over her buttocks and down to her wet center. "God Dorian you are so soft, I love the way you feel," Kate stroked back and forth until she felt Kate could take two of her fingers inside.
Dorian dropped her head down to her chest and sucked in a sharp intake of breath; she pushed back against the penetration loving the feeling of Kate inside of her.
Kate reached around and sought out Dorian clit…..she never let up and her hand rocking in and out of Dorian.
"Oh Kate, I can't believe this……" Dorian was panting, Kate was making demands on her body and she was trying to keep up. It had been so long since she was on fire like this, so consumed by the feelings.
Kate was kissing and nipping at the soft flesh of Dorian's lower back, the sensations was pushing Dorian over the edge.
"That's it Dorian let go, give it all to me I can take it," Kate was rocking hard against Dorian's backside, her fingers again found Dorian's clit and tweaked in between her fingers sending Dorian into an orgasm, wave after wave hit her as Kate rocking slowed.
Dorian rolled over onto her back and shuttered as the last remains of her ecstasy washed over her. Kate brushed the thick locks off of Dorian's face and kissed her on the cheek. "You are beautiful ya know."
Dorian pulled Kate down and snuggled her against her ample breast.
"Wow" was all Dorian could say.
"Excuse me…" Kate said?
"Okay Wow, fantastic, smashing!" She pushed Kate on her back, "now let me show you exactly how you made me feel……"
Three doors down Faith pushed another pillow over her head. Oh god not again. Faith was ready to jump out of bed and head out of the hotel hoping that maybe some space between her and Dorian would help, but the phone began to ring..
Faith picked it up abruptly…"ya speak."
"Baby is that you….?"
"B I am so glad it's you."
"What's wrong sweetie?"
"It's Dorian….umm, she has a guest and well let's just say she is, um entertaining!"
"Oh, what's wrong baby, ya getting that lovin feeling."
"Ya B and you're not here! Hey B, what are ya wearing right now?"
"Faith what am I gonna do with you?"
"I can think of a few things B!"
"I love you baby."
"I love you too B."
Timeline: L.A., August 2002
Place: Hyperion Hotel
"Come on B…..what are ya wearing."
"Faith…..no! What if Dorian can ya know feel it."
"Okay B, okay. I am glad you called, really."
"Thanks Baby, and just for the record….'nothing'!"
"B you're killin me. Hey, B Dorian wants us to go to Connecticut to fix the creepy feelin spell thing. Can you go in two weeks?"
"I don't think it will be a problem, let me talk to Willow. Faith we will be on thier territory do you think that's a good idea?"
"B I trust Dorian! Please just try to trust me."
"Okay Faith, I will think about it, and I do love you, I am trying with the whole trust thing and it's not just you. Okay so I'm issue girl!"
"No B I understand it takes time. So nothing ….. cool."
"Kate, I can see with you around I won't get much sleep."
"I can say the same about you, my dear. Dorian can I see you again tomorrow, umm can I take you out for dinner or something."
"You better after what you just did to me…. twice! Oh, and you're buying!"
"Okay, deal! So this trip you are going on …..Is Faith going with you?"
"Yes, we have to fix a spell, Faith and I are having a connection problem……oh shit! Faith!" Dorian buried her head in her hands as she rolled away from Kate to reach for her robe. "I'll be right back."
"Faith,….?" Dorian whispered, as she tapped lightly on Faith's door. "Faith it's me Dorian?" She slowly creeked the door open and found Faith on her stomach sleeping. Dorian approached the bed and sat down gingerly on the side…..in hushed tones she rubbed Faith's back. "I am sorry sweetie, I forgot, I hope you didn't feel it??" She brushed the errant strands of Faith hair off her cheek and reached down and kissed her forehead. "Sleep tight little one, good dreams."
Dorian made her way back to the door, as she was about to leave a very sleepy Faith said, "I love you Mia"…and rolled back over into sleep.
Dorian felt a wave of emotion wash over her, Faith felt like a daughter probably for the first time in her life.
When she made her way back to Kate she was in tears…Kate held her close.
"What's wrong? Are you okay?"
"Yes, I am great. Faith, feels our connection, she feels it like a Mother and daughter. I am just so happy, so happy for Faith. Kate? will you stay here tonight, stay with me and hold me…make love to me?"
"Try and kick me out!" Kate kissed Dorian softly, she wanted to make love, make this time slow, she wanted to remember everything about Dorian every part of her body, every curve…...
Faith, sat in front of the TV with a mixing bowl full of Capt n crunch.
Dorian, made her way to the sofa and stepped over Faith's out stretched legs….."good morning" she said as she ruffled Faith's hair.
"Morning Mia" Faith said with a mouth full. "Where is your overnight guest?"
"Oh, Kate? She had to go….to work ya know."
"So, what did you guys do ….read last night… maybe quilting, oh I know, sewing bee right?"
Dorian threw a sofa pillow at Faith, "so you did feel it. I am sorry Faith I promise no more until the spell is fixed."
"Thanks…it's way too creepy."
"Did you talk to Buffy about the trip?"
"Ya, she's a little wigged about council types….I'm workin on her. The council was real bad to her…and me. It's hard ya know, trusting them."
"I know Faith we will work it out, I promise. Faith there is something we need to talk about, um in Connecticut, um the coven. You see I….."
"Oh spit it out please, Mia!"
"Okay Faith I have a daughter, she is with the coven, with my friend Sophie while I'm here with you. I wanted you to know….I didn't want to keep anything from you, and I didn't want you to be surprised when we got there."
Faith did know what to think, "You have a daughter….with Anna or someone else?"
"No with Anna, I had just found out I was pregnant when she was killed."
"She never knew?" Faith almost shouted.
"No, she never knew," Dorian looked down at the tea cup she was holding.
Faith moved to sit by her…."I'm sorry…are you okay?" Faith put her arm around the woman she now felt was her Mother, "I really am sorry Mia."
Dorian hugged Faith, "It's okay, really."
"So…does she know about me, does she know, I'm coming? How old is like five right…..is she a priss or can she handle herself… no worries, I can fix that, I'll teach her to take care of herself. Do you think she'll like me?"
Faith was pacing by this time, Dorian just watched as she ranted and raved….. "Are you done Faith."
"Umm, ya sure."
"Okay her name is Angelina, we call her Angel, she is five, and a handful. She does know about you and she is very excited, she already…well she knows about the spell and well she is very smart too smart! What do you mean by priss?"
Faith laughed, "you call her Angel really? I got to call B," she hugged Dorian and ran from the room laughing.
Dorian let out a sigh of relief….that went well!
"Now all I have to do is tell Kate."
"Tell Kate what? I forgot my keys…." she said dangling them in front of her.
Timeline: L.A., August 2002
Place: Hyperion Hotel
"Kate, Oh, your keys!"
"What's up what do you have to tell me?"
"Well I guess this is my day for confessions. Sit down, you might be late for work." Kate sat down wondering just what Dorian was going to say to her.
"Kate I want to start by saying I really enjoy your company and…."
Kate raised her hands and stood, "Dorian listen if you don't want to see me anymore just tell me, cuz I don't need any song and dance, plus I've got to get to work, so let me have it."
Dorian got up and stood in front of Kate, "are you always like this?" Kate didn't answer; she just looked at her watch and sighed. "Kate look at me," Dorian put her hand under Kate's chin so she could hold her gaze.
When she finally got her to make eye contact Dorian brushed her lips against Kate's and barely above a whisper said "I am falling in love with you Kate Lockley."
Kate was speechless; she's what, me?
"This is why I have to tell you that I have a daughter in Connecticut, I have a life there, my place is there with her and the coven. I care very much for you, and it's all very confusing for me, I don't know what to do. So there I've said it," Dorian backed away from Kate.
"You, just can't say something like that and ……" Kate pushed a lock of hair behind her ear and gave Dorian a hooded look, "I know I am falling in love with you too."
Dorian placed both her hands on either side of Kate's head and kissed her with all the passion she could, she must remember her promise to Faith.
Kate rested her forehead against Kate's…."so where does this leave us?"
"I guess this leaves us with me asking for vacation time, oh and what's the weather like in CT this time of year?"
"Thank you Kate, this means so much to me."
"Do you mean it? Is it really okay if I come with you?"
"Oh yes please" and with that she pulled Kate into a long embrace.
"No kidding B can ya believe it??? Angel, No Shit! B you okay, I know it's kind of weird…..B are ya there?"
"Ya Faith I'm here."
"B are you okay?"
"Yes, Faith I'm okay, and yes it's major weird but it's a little girl and it's just a name."
"Ya right B. So did you talk to Red are you coming?"
"Yes, she said she could handle things here for a while, so ya I'm coming with."
"Wicked B this is great, I love you."
"I love you too baby."
The next two weeks seemed to pass so quickly, Faith spent long hours with Dorian, talking about things from the past and learning how to deal with them.
But, it was the future that most concerned Faith, things with Buffy, and now, having a little sister in a way.
Faith seemed to thrive on the relationship between her and Dorian, they were like two halves. Faith often wondered if her Mom would be sad if she knew someone else had taken her place? Nah she wouldn't give a shit, and for the first time in her life Faith didn't care what that woman thought.
Therapy was hard sometimes dragging up the past, but she was working on it.
Dorian taught Faith tai chi, and meditation, after every session she would go out into the courtyard and practice, sometimes Angel would join her.
Faith just kept trying to focus on the future, a future that now had Buffy in it.
She did her time in prison, she was doing her time in therapy, and she was working to redemption. Christ she hoped it was enough!
Faith stood at baggage claim, stood on her tiptoes looking for Buffy. Please calm down, she will be out soon.
There she is……Faith started to thread her way through the crowd. "B" she yelled as she jumped up and down.
Buffy laughed at the sight…god I love her, look at her, jumping up and down. In a matter of seconds they were standing in front of each other.
"Hi Baby," Buffy said as she pulled Faith into a hug. But, that wasn't good enough for Faith she picked Buffy up while still in the embrace and held on for dear life.
"Oh god I missed you B, I love you so much."
"I missed you too. Ahhh Faith people are staring!"
"I don't care B!"
Buffy looked down into Faith's eyes and saw the world, she looked deep into them and any doubts she had about her and Faith went out the window. Buffy kissed Faith! And Faith kissed Buffy! And Buffy really didn't care who was watching.
When Faith finally put her down all the people arriving at Gate 12b clapped and cheered.
"Come on you two before I have to call Kate to get us out of jail."
Faith grabbed Buffy's hand and led her out the airport doors.
Back at the hotel all were bunked down, tomorrow was the flight to the East Coast and Faith wanted to be rested. She lay on her back staring up at the ceiling.
Buffy was snoring softly using Faith's chest as a pillow. Faith was making lazy circles on her back, her mind was wandering to what she would do, what would she say to all of these people she would meet tomorrow and little Angel, I am never gonna get any sleep.
Buffy stirred in her arms, "what's wrong, can't you sleep?"
"Nah…got too much on my mind."
"Can I help you get distracted," Buffy teased one of Faith's nipples making it harden.
"Oh B, I missed you."
"How much Baby?" Buffy's hand traveled down Faith's stomach coming to rest between her thighs. Gently Buffy's fingers danced between her lips and found Faith to be very wet. "Ummm you did miss me, you are so wet."
"It's you B, you do this to me….no one has ever made me feel the way you do."
As Faith was saying this Buffy was sliding two fingers inside, "OH God B, yes!"
Buffy nestled herself between Faith's legs intoxicated by the aroma that hit her…..this was Faith, this was the woman that she loved….her head was spinning making love to Faith was like riding a wild horse….feeling the power, knowing she was responding to her touches, Buffy guiding her pleasure. She brought her lips down and licked and sucked and nipped at her clit making Faith, hold onto her head, call out her name, when Faith was very close Buffy held on tight as she thrust her tongue deep inside of Faith's wet center pushing her over, and over.
"God Buffy I love you" Faith called out between sobs, Buffy was at her side in an instant, "shh baby it's okay I love you I'm here baby, I'm here."
Timeline: August/Sept. 2002
Place: Airport, Hartford, Ct.
Next part, New Canaan CT, a 100-acre estate the witch's council
purchased, where they live a communal life.
"B, look, look out the window……you can see New York…..I miss this side."
"Side? Faith what are you talking about?"
"The side B! This side of the country! It's home….can't ya feel it? It hums….this is where it all began!"
"Yes Faith but California has ME!"
"Yes, baby I know and that is why I tolerate CA," Faith leaned in and kissed Buffy. "B, I am so charged I can't wait to meet all of them. What if they don't like me….what if Little Angel doesn't like me?"
"Faith stop, they will all love you, they will see everything in you that I see and Dorian cares about you, stop worrying." After an uneventful landing they made their way through the airport.
Faith kissed Buffy and said, "I will go get our bags you wait here with Dorian and Kate. Okay baby?"
"I am fine Faith go…." she smiled as she checked out Faith's butt!
"So, are you okay with being here Buffy?"
"Ya, no big. I am a little wigged but it's okay as long as Faith is okay….Faith is okay right Dorian?"
"Yes Buffy everything is okay," with that Dorian felt like the wind was knocked out of her, looking down she saw the largest green eyes and mess of red hair.
"Mommy…………." Angel looked up at her, Dorian picked the girl up and spun her around as she hugged her.
"Oh baby I missed you so much!" Buffy smiled at the scene before her, wow she's a cutie.
"Hi Sophie…." Dorian pulled her against her. "This is Kate…umm, she's a friend of mine."
"Nice to meet you Kate" Sophie shook her hand. As she released it Sophie knew Kate was just not Dorian's friend!
"Buffy this is Sophie she in the coven and she is my very good friend."
"Hello Buffy, I hope you enjoy your stay with us."
"Thanks…. I hope so too."
"Mommy where is she?" The little girl pointed to Buffy and said, "that's not her…..She's pretty Mommy," she whispered in Dorian's ear.
Buffy could hear her and she chuckled a little….."I'm Buffy."
Dorian put Angel down and she hugged Buffy around the waist, "you are Faith's right?"
Buffy looked from the little girl hugging her and back to Dorian……"huh?"
"She is very perceptive…don't let it get you too concerned she is a strong little witch right my little monkey," Dorian said as she tweaked her nose. "And this is Kate…..She's……."
"Yours Mommy? Hi Kate," Angel said as she hugged her.
Dorian glanced over at Sophie and was surprised to find her smiling. Sophie looked up and found Dorian staring at her….Dorian mouthed a thank you to the young witch. Sophie winked at her.
Dorian sighed in relief; she really didn't want to hurt her friend.
"Okay I think I have all the bags on this (*)&*(&(&^(* cart…….."
"Faith, your mouth!" Dorian chastised her!
"FAITH…." Angel said as she ran at her.
Faith was in shock as the little bundle of energy slammed into her.
"Hey squirt, nice to meet you too!" She picked up Angel and balanced her on her hip.
"I knew you would come soon, I just knew it …." she hugged Faith around the neck.
Dorian couldn't help it she felt her eyes mist over..the sight was too much.
Kate put a comforting arm around her, "you okay Dorian?"
Dorian pulled Kate into a hug…."I am very happy for the both of them?"
"Ya, Faith deserves this she really does."
"So…..Squirt…you my little sis?"
"Yup, can't you feel it? Mommy said they did a spell…but it doesn't matter, I could feel you."
"She is a little witch Faith….." Buffy said.
"Really my new Mia and my little sis are all witch's? Cool. Hey Angel did you meet my girl?"
"Yup she's pretty, do you love her?"
"Ummmm, she's not shy is she? Ya, I love her, she's pretty special," Faith reached for Buffy's hand.
"I know, she's a slayer like you," Angel reached over and ran her fingers through Buffy's hair…"does she love you too Faith?"
Faith looked at Buffy and blushed, "I hope so?"
"Ya, I love her Angel" Buffy said as she squeezed Faith hand.
"Good! Mommy can we go home now?"
Timeline: August/Sept. 2002
Place: New Canaan CT, a 100-acre estate the witch's council
purchased, where they live a communal life.
The ride back was filled with chatter, and catching up. Faith and Buffy were surprised that Dorian did in fact own a mini-van, and they didn't let her forget it!
The coven was located on an old 100-acre estate that had fallen into disrepair; Dorian and the other witch's had picked it up for a steal. Shara's husband was a carpenter and Lynn's partner was an electrician so labor was cheap and after a few years everything took shape.
No one actually lived in the old main house; they used at as a meeting house and to also put up guests. The witch's lived on cottages through out the property.
All of the cottages boarded a small lake in the center…..Buffy knew Willow and Tara would have loved this place, a small frown graced her face when she thought of Tara and of Willow's pain.
Angel reached out and ran her little hand down Buffy's arm. "Buffy are you okay? Why are you sad?"
"What's up B?"
"Just thinking how much Tara would have loved all of this."
Dorian spoke up, "everyone is very sad about what happened Buffy."
"You all know what happened?"
"We all tried to help with Willow but I'm sorry Buffy it wasn't in time," Sophie said.
Faith leaned her head against Buffy's; "I'm here baby."
They all sat around the main meeting room and discussed what was to happen with the spell and Faith on being a part of their "little family".
Angel sat on Buffy's lap coloring and telling her stories of all the animals in the commune.
"Buffy when are you going to have your baby?" Buffy was shocked by the little girl out-going and sometimes intrusive questions.
"Umm, I hadn't really thought about it Angel, umm what?" Buffy didn't know it but Faith was over hearing this conversation.
"Babies are nice don't ya think Buffy?"
"Yes Angel I do…but I umm, in my line of work it doesn't….I don't think so sweetie." Buffy had to remember she was talking to a five-year-old.
"I think you would be a good Mommy, you color good, and you give good hugs. I'm gonna show Faith this picture" she jumped off Buffy's lap and ran to where Faith was sitting.
Faith watched as Buffy put her head down and seemed to be deep in thought.
"Hey squirt what cha got there?"
"Faith this is a picture of you Mommy and me, oh and Buffy and Kate and we are at the cottage."
"What cottage Angel?"
"The one where you and Buffy live with the baby, silly."
"Oh …umm what baby?"
"The one Buffy will have," Angel busied herself with her story and Faith looked over at Buffy.
She saw the unshed tears in her girlfriend's eyes and knew it was time to get Buffy out of there.
"Hey squirt lets go see Mia……." Faith explain that she was tired and was gonna head off to her and Buffy's room. Angel was busy telling Dorian the story, as Faith was walking over to Buffy.
"Hey good-looking feel like goin ta bed with the likes of me?"
Buffy looked up at Faith, "you heard didn't you?"
"No biggy baby, come on let's go," she held out her hand.
Faith and Buffy walked along the path towards the little cottage on the far side of the lake.
"Hey B, don't sweat it okay?"
"Faith, I have known for a long time that I would not have a normal life…it's just hard to be reminded of it sometimes."
"Sorry B, she's just a kid."
"I know Baby, I know."
They started walking again and were silent for a long time just enjoying the sounds around the lake.
"Hey, B…would you like to one day…ya know have a baby?"
"Faith that's impossible and you know it."
"No it's not B, I could just slay, and you could retire. And before you say no…think about it. You could have what you want B; the picket fence the whole thing."
"Faith I couldn't do that."
"One day B you are going to have to let me share some of the slaying responsibility…..I was made for it too ya know."
Buffy stopped dead in her tracks, she dropped Faith's hand "you just don't get it do you?"
"No B why don't you explain it to me, cuz I can't read minds unlike my little sister I have no f-ing clue what goes on!"
"I can't let you do it, I can't let you slay alone….." Buffy was sobbing, "what if you die, what if that one night you are just a little off your game, what if they get you Faith?"
"B, I am a slayer, it's what I do. I am not the kid I was when I blew into Sunnyd. I have grown up a lot. I don't take chances anymore."
"No Faith I can't chance it not with you…."
"B you have no choice, it's my decision."
"What do you mean?"
"It's like I said in LA ….! This relationship, this time…my rules."
"But Faith you don't….."
"Buffy Summers shut up!"
Buffy looked at Faith like the rug was pulled out from under her.
Faith walked up to her, Buffy's chin couldn't be any lower to the ground.
"I am sorry about the shut up thing…sorry. B look at me, please baby?"
Buffy looked at Faith through her tears.
"This is the way it's going to be," she took Buffy's hand and started for the cottage again. "First, I will slay more and train really hard not to die. Second, we will work on our relationship, I need to be more in love with you than I am now," and she smirked when she said this and tugged on Buffy's arm to get her attention. "Third, we can stay here sometimes and be a family….you, me and Dawn, even Willow. Then when the time is right, Faith took a deep breath, we can have a family of our own. B…..? You haven't said a word, yell at me tell me to go to hell something."
Faith stopped and stepped in front of Buffy.
"B, what do you think?"
"I think ……..you want to know what I think?"
Faith waited for the assault!
Buffy wrapped her arms around Faith's neck and kissed her deeply. Faith lifted her off the ground and Buffy wrapped her legs around Faith's waist.
"I want to believe it's all-possible Faith, all of it I really do, but if it's at the price of your life than I wouldn't be able to live with myself."
"I can't die B, not after I have all of this, you and Dorian and little Angel…not now. Promise to marry me one day. B….promise me."
Buffy looked into the dark eyes and wondered if that long road they took to get to where they were now was worth it.
"Hell ya! I promise Faith, I promise."
"Okay little one go to sleep now."
"But Mommy, one more hug pleaseeee."
"Angel I promise I will be here in the morning."
"Mommy where's Kate?"
"Angelina go to sleep."
"Just let me hug Kate then I will go to sleep."
Dorian called Kate in and she kneeled down to the side of the little girl's bed.
"You are giving your Mom a hard time ya know."
"I know" she whispered, "Kate are you gonna be here too…in the morning?"
"Is it okay with you if I am?"
"Sure, my whole family is here now…it's okay. Faith and Buffy are fine now…Buffy stopped crying."
"What do you mean stopped crying?" Kate said.
"I made Buffy sad, when I talked about her and Faith having a baby, but Faith made her happy again, I can feel it."
"Can you really feel things from people?"
"Sure, I just have to learn when to not feel things like when people hurt or animals get hurt."
Kate leaned down and kissed her on the forehead.
"Good night."
"Night Mommy, night Kate."
Dorian closed her daughter's door and lead Kate down the hall to their room.
"She's freaking you out isn't she?"
"A little but, I have seen some pretty weird things lately so this is nice kind of freaking out. She seems to be really attached to Faith and in a short period of time" Kate said as she was getting undressed.
"Well she's heard a lot about Faith for a few years, we all have, and we are just putting the face to the feelings and stories now. When she was in prison I worked very hard channeling her so did the rest of the coven."
"What do you mean, channeling her?"
"We would try and link with her, astro project ourselves to her….to keep her calm, help her out. It's very exhausting, we all took turns." Dorian turned down the bed as they talked.
"She did have a great record in prison….well after the first month she did." That first month was bad Kate thought.
"Kate stop, don't say anything about it. I don't think Buffy knows…I don't think she has told her or anyone for that matter."
"Dorian she was raped! That guard was prosecuted, I was there."
"Kate…think about it…..Buffy told her to go to jail. What do you think will happen if she finds out what happened there, she'll blame herself."
"That's stupid she had nothing to do with it."
"Kate these two think they breath the same breath, even when they hated each other they found it hard….. God Faith wanted to die for Buffy, she almost did. If Angelus didn't stop her."
"Dorian I'm sorry."
"I know Kate so am I."
"Come on B under the covers,' Faith held up the blankets so Buffy could slip under.
"There better right?"
"Yup all snuggly with my baby."
Faith pulled Buffy closer and kissed her on the top of her head.
"B, can ya believe it…all of it? I have you and a family."
"I know baby, it's wonderful, it really is. Sleep now, you have a big day…..and somehow I think you little sister will be here early to wake you up to play."
"She's great isn't she B?"
"Ya she is Faith. Faith do you think I would make a good Mommy."
"Yes, I do, I really mean that. Night B, I love you."
"Night baby……don't forget your promise…."
"I won't B, I won't."
Timeline: August/Sept. 2002
Place: New Canaan CT, a 100-acre estate the witch's council
purchased, where they live a communal life.
Tap tap, tap………."Faith can I come in….Mommy said I have to knock."
"Squirt….is that you?"
"Hi Faith," Angel said as she ran through the door to Faith and Buffy's room and jumped on Faith.
"Woo easy tiger, why are you up so early" as she looked at the clock it read 5:00 am (the little girl giggled at being called a tiger).
"Mommy said to come get you, the sun is not up yet and it's time."
"Time for what tiger?"
"The spell???? We have to be in the clearing, and she said to put this on." Angel handed Faith a bag.
Faith pulled out a crushed red velvet dress….."Why do all the woman in my life want me to wear dresses???? Tiger I am gonna go change …..You guard Buffy! Don't wake her up okay."
"Okay Faith," Angel said as she saluted her sister.
Angel sat on the bed studying Buffy's sleeping form. She was lying on her stomach, resting on her elbows.
Buffy woke with a start and found herself face to face with a tiny terror.
"Hi, Buffy."
"Where is your sister?" Buffy said burying her face under a pillow.
"Changing."
"Changing, changing for what?"
"Spell."
Ask a stupid question Summers.
"Mommy said to come and get her we have to do the spell."
"Angel it's 5:00 am…"
"Actually Buffy it's 5:05."
"Arghhhh" Buffy stuffed herself under the pillow again.
"Buffy are you mad at me?"
"Hey tiger I thought I told you not to wake her?"
"Wow you look nice Faith…come on let's go, Mommy's waiting."
Faith picked the little girl up. Gently she picked up the corner of the pillow to kiss Buffy goodbye.
"I'm up……"
"Sorry B! Go back to sleep," she kissed her cheek, I'll see you later.
"Baby, come here, are you wearing a dress?"
"Ya, it's for the ritual/spell thingy….gotta go."
"Oh no you don't," Buffy hopped out of bed. "Come here."
Faith walked up to Buffy still holding Angel…, "close your eyes" Buffy said to Angel, she giggled.
Angel put her little hands over her eyes.
Buffy kissed Faith, "good morning, and you look beautiful. Hurry back."
"Eww are you kissing I can hear you…" Angel squealed.
"Go you two, I need my beauty rest," Buffy swatted Faith on the butt.
"Bye baby."
"Bye Buffy, I love you."
"I love you too Angel, now go."
"Come on Tiger, she's cranky when she's sleepy."
"I heard that!"
"Gentleman we need a slayer. A council needs a slayer. We have two choices, Miss Summers, or the rogue slayer, Faith. We have never been able to control the Summers girl, well she's a woman now. My choice is the rogue. Jenkins has the team located the new slayer."
"Yes sir, just outside of Melbourne."
"Very good. Now all we have to do is kill the slayer Faith."
"Sir, our intelligence has reported back that the slayers are with the Witch's council in the United States. They are heavily guarded, deep magicks."
"Let me guess, Dorian Grey, Sophie Linds, the eternal thorns in my side."
"Yes sir."
"Bring me the surveillance file, there has to be some leverage."
"Sir according to our source, the witch Grey has preformed a familial spell of protection with Faith. Maybe our best bet is to go with the Summers woman?"
"Nonsense! She has died twice; she just won't go away, beside if Rupert Giles finds out about this ….well let's just say I don't want him to find out."
"Yes sir," Jenkins snickered.
"Ha, I have it, the child that is the key to keeping Faith in line."
"Jenkins get a team together, get them ready to head to America."
"Yes sir."
Quentin Travers leaned back in his chair and lit a cigar, well, well, seems the Witch's weakness will be the very thing they thought would save them.
Buffy couldn't sleep ever since Faith and Angel had left she had tossed and turned. She got up pulled on some jeans and a sweater……so much for sleeping in.
Buffy wandered the paths, the clearing must be closer to the main house she thought.
The sun was just cresting the hills, when Buffy reached the top before the clearing, she looked around the landscape before her. It's so pretty here and relaxing. Pine trees stretched towards the sky, Maples starting to show little bits of color and the impending fall. I have to call Willow and get her and Dawn here for a while, I think they could use a break.
Buffy was lost in thought and was startled when she felt a hand on her shoulder.
"Oh hey Kate."
"Sorry didn't mean to scare ya, I thought you could use this." Kate handed Buffy a cup of coffee.
"Umm how did you know I would be here?"
"Because I knew I would so I figured you would."
"Okay, thanks for the coffee."
"Are they done?"
"I just got here so I am not sure" Buffy said as she blew the steam off her drink.
"You really love her don't you Buffy?"
"Ya I do …. I hope all this works for her, for us, for all of us."
"Ya, I know what you mean….I feel like I am on a horse running very fast…..oh well."
"Got issues Kate?"
"Some, like us all, even you Buffy."
"Sorry Kate, why do I always feel like fighting with you."
"Oh I don't know Buffy….I wanted to lock your ex, in a cell facing the sun, then I took your future girlfriend's confession….need anything else?"
"Nah, that covers it, for what it's worth, sorry. That was a long time ago. I'll get over it I promise."
"Sure Buffy, we are on the same side now."
In the clearing the Witches called the corners, Faith, Dorian and Angel in the middle holding hands.
Lynn started the spell, "Gaia hear my plea,
We bring forth these gifts for thee
Gaia we beseech thee
Let these three be one
Let them feel like flesh and bone
Let them stay apart
Daughters to the mother
Yet stay with each other
Separate they will stay
Joined as a family we do pray
Gaia we beseech you
So mote it be"
Lynn and Shara fastened their hands together.
"Before these witnesses, in these woods, before our mother, a family we make witness to."
"Blessed be" they all sang out.
Dorian hugged her daughters. Faith picked up Angel, "no you don't have to call her Mia anymore she's Mommy."
Faith laughed, "thanks tiger, I'll see what I can do."
Buffy and Kate had found their way down the hill to the circle.
Faith sighed as she saw Buffy approach her.
"You're here, did you see us."
"Ya baby I did you looked beautiful," she cupped Faith's cheek.
"I have a real family B, like you I have a real family."
"I know sweetie I know."
Dorian grabbed Kate's hand, "come on everyone let's all go back to the main house and have breakfast."
They celebrated, shared stories and enjoyed each other's company.
Buffy spoke to Dorian and Faith about asking Willow and Dawn to join them depending on the hell mouth activity.
"Buffy I think that would be a great idea. I'll make the arrangements as soon as you give me the okay."
"Thanks Dorian this will mean a lot to us."
"Mommy can I go outside with the other kids, pleaseee?"
"Sure, just stay close to the house."
"Dorian I will be outside with them" Sophie said as she crossed the hall.
"Thanks Sophie."
Buffy and Faith settled in to life around the estate, everyone had their own responsibility their own chores.
Buffy settled in quickly taking care of the children that lived there. Faith spent her mornings making love with Buffy then training most of the day with Dorian. As far as Faith could tell life couldn't get any better.
Buffy and Faith cottage was small but suited them well; they ate dinner together every night and talked quietly to each on long walks making plans, kissing and enjoying each other's company.
They made their way back into the cottage, Faith carried Buffy the whole way, and her face was buried in Buffy's hair. "I love you Buffy, I love you so much, she whispered in her love's ear."
Buffy cradled Faith's head against her chest guiding her to the bedroom.
Faith gently placed Buffy on the bed, she looked down at the woman she loved and couldn't believe her life had gotten so good.
She reached down and untied the strings to Buffy's dress and slipped the straps over her shoulders. "My god baby you're beautiful" Faith said as she worshiped Buffy with her eyes.
"You only see yourself in me baby. I am what you see, Baby…. Make love to me Faith, I need you, I need to feel you inside of me."
Faith slipped out of her clothes and stretched herself out along side Buffy.
They both were on their sides facing one another. Faith's hand was caressing the dip between Buffy's hip and her waist….."I love this part on you B. It's so sexy…." she reached over and placed a soft kiss on her hip.
Faith wrapped her arms around Buffy and rolled her on her back. Her mouth found Buffy's nipple already up and exposed, she tickled it with her tongue and grazed it with her teeth. All the while Buffy ran her fingers through Faith's hair encouraging her pleading with her for more.
Faith traced a path between the valley of Buffy's breast to her navel; she dipped her tongue in and swirled it around, then proceeded to her thighs.
Faith rested her head on Buffy's stomach as her fingers danced between the wet lips and flicked Buffy clitoris occasionally loving the sharp intake of air that came from her.
"Faith…. I love you" Buffy whispered as Faith lifted her face to look up at Buffy.
She gazed up at her love through her place between her legs, "you are beautiful Baby, ya know that?"
A single tear rolled down Buffy's cheek.
"B are you okay baby?"
"Yes, I'm okay, I am just so happy now. Happy with you."
Faith kissed the inside of Buffy's thigh before she brought her mouth down to her.
The aroma was intoxicating…. she dipped her tongue in and licked up just touching Buffy's clit.
"Oh god Faith the way you make me feel."
Faith brought her hands up Buffy's hips and down to rest on her stomach…she could feel the muscles contract. She thought she could do this forever Buffy tasted so good, she loved the way Buffy's scent stayed on her fingers how she could close her eyes and imagine Buffy making love to her. Buffy pants dragged her out of her daydream, she was close…..Faith thrust her tongue inside of her lover, pumping in and out then she sucked on her clit bringing her to an orgasm. Faith held on tight. She wanted this to last, she wanted to drink all of Buffy in, every drop, she licked and licked.
"Faith please, I can't take it anymore please," Buffy pulled her up to rest on her chest.
Faith lay there listening to Buffy's heart, it was steady and strong, and it was hers.
"B..?"
"Ya Baby…." Buffy was stroking Faith's hair.
"B, I want a family, I want us to have a family….I wish it more than anything. I want you to have our children, and I want them all to look like you."
"I swear Faith just when I think I have you figured out….."
"You're not mad B?"
"No baby, I'm not mad, I want that too, except I want them to look like you," she said rustling up Faith's hair. She pulled Faith into her arms and they fell asleep holding each other.
There was a spark, a gentle twitch…then life, where there was none,
natures blessing, the goddess has spoken…
I give this gift, keep it precious, it was made from pure love
She will be a light; she will be a savior.
Faith felt a soft flutter by her ear, almost subconscious, she stirred in her lover's arms, she briefly awoke and looked around, nothing she settled back down in Buffy's arms and drifted off to sleep again, dreaming of the future.
Buffy rolled over, she was cold. She looked over and Faith had most of the blankets wrapped around her feet.
"Honey wake up," she nudged Faith's shoulder.
"Umf…" was all she got out of Faith…..Buffy reached down to untangle the blankets when it hit her. A wave of nausea, she just made it to the bathroom. Her stomach emptied Buffy made her way to the sink to brush her teeth and wash her face when she turned around again to empty her stomach a second time.
She sat on the cool porcelain wondering what was wrong with her.
Faith woke to a start, she heard Buffy in the bathroom, and something must be wrong. She found Buffy sitting on the bathroom floor.
"What's the matter babe?"
"I don't know? I woke up and started throwing up…ewww."
"Maybe it's food poisoning?"
"Faith I ate the same thing you ate not the same quantity but the same stuff."
"Let's see we had chicken, salad, and potatoes, pie…." Faith ticked off the items on her fingers.
She looked down and Buffy was green, she leaned over the bowl and threw up.
"Oh B, I'm sorry."
She sat down next to Buffy on the floor.
"Oh Faith you don't have to I'm sick, and this is gross."
"It's okay B, I'm here I can handle anything."
Buffy lurched again….."Okay I'll just get you a cold cloth." Faith got up and went to the linen closet to wet a face cloth.
"Maybe we should get you to a doctor B?"
"Ya, maybe you're right this won't stop."
Faith paced the emergency room sitting area waiting to find out what was wrong with Buffy. Dorian had taken them to a hospital in her words was "wiccian friendly" this meant that there was a pagan doctor on staff, a friend of Dorian's from college.
Faith thought to herself that she hoped Buffy was feeling all right. Today is a big day Willow and Dawn were arriving and Buffy couldn't wait to see them.
Dr. Spencer came out, everyone rushed her.
"Can I see her?"
"Easy Faith" Dorian said "is she okay Pam?"
"Yes and no……"
"No?" Faith said a little loudly.
"Please come this way," Dr. Spencer said.
"Is Buffy okay?"
"She's fine" the Doctor said "she wants to see you right away, but first Faith I need a blood sample."
"Why…I mean sure but why?"
"I want to check something," Dorian looked at her puzzled.
"So, she's okay? Right?"
"Yes, Faith she's fine, just go right through there."
She found Buffy lacing up her sneakers.
"B…hey?"
"Hey," Buffy looked up at her.
She hugged Buffy like she hadn't seen her in months.
"You need help with those B?"
"Not now, maybe in a few months."
"What's that supposed to mean?"
"Faith come here sit down," Buffy patted the examining table next to her.
"B, you're scaring me!"
Buffy took her hand and kissed her cheek.
"You're dying right. Fuck I knew it was too good to be true….."
"Faith, please… I am not dying. I am pregnant."
"What, how? B I think I'm gonna pass out."
Faith toppled over on to the floor.
"Nurse, doctor somebody help!" Buffy yelled.
Faith woke up to Buffy holding her hand, and something cold on her forehead.
"B….I had the weirdest dream….you told me you were gonna have a baby."
"I am Faith it wasn't a dream, and you fainted." She snickered.
"Are you laughing at me B?"
"Nah honey it's cute….the Doctor Spencer said you'll be okay."
"B, what's wrong and how are you pregnant? I mean you have just been with me, it can't be Spike, he's…dead, I mean a vamp."
"Faith according to the doctor I am 2 months pregnant! Faith I haven't been with anyone but you. And before that…well let's just say not in a while."
Faith picked Buffy up and held her, "we are gonna have a baby….." She practically yelled.
Faith felt Buffy pull her tighter, and sob.
"Hey B, what's with this…? What's wrong."
"I thought, I mean I wasn't sure, with a baby and all, if you would still love me."
She took Buffy's face in her hands…. "I love you B; I'm not going anywhere."
"So you're okay with this, me getting fat, labor pains of a slayer can't be good ya know, late night feedings, bills, college……."
"Oh god…." She fainted again, "Doctor, Nurse…..She fainted again."
Okay. She's coming to! "Faith are you okay?" Buffy was pressing a cold cloth to her forehead.
"I fainted again right?"
"Yup…..ya did!"
"Damn….sorry B."
"Faith it's a little overwhelming, I understand."
"So B …still pregnant?"
"Yup, still pregnant. The blood tests will be back in about a week."
"Ya, B what's up with that? The Doctor took blood from me…why?" Faith said sitting up and trying to find her bearings. Buffy had her hand on Faith's lower back guiding her up.
"Ya know Faith I am going to need you in the next couple of months…… are you going to be okay?"
"B, sorry about the fainting thing….I was wigged okay…we talked about a future I just thought it meant future ya know…future."
"I know baby, this is all kind of sudden," she was brushing the damp hair away from Faith's face.
"Faith I can feel this, Buffy was rubbing circles on her stomach… "I feel the baby growing. It must be the slayer thing, kind of like the healing thingy accelerated ya know? Dorian called Giles, but of course there is no history on any of this… slayers never lived long enough to do any of the things we are doing."
"You have always been the exception to the rule B. And you're showing already," Faith reached out and rubbed Buffy's stomach. "Gonna have to make an honest woman outta of ya soon B."
"Don't I know it, what did you say?"
"Nothing B, go ahead, we'll talk later…"
"Faith how am I going to explain this to Dawn and Willow."
"They will be okay B, don't worry, they love you."
"Come on Faith. Let's get you home you need to rest…."
"Okay B. Ya gotta stop that. I should be saying that to you."
"Okay, sorry Faith," she kissed her.
Buffy tried to lie down , she tried sitting, she was uncomfortable. So here she was pacing. Faith would not let her go to the airport to pick up Willow and Dawn, so she was stuck waiting. Her slayer guilt was kicking in….the hell mouth left unattended and all…..But it was close to Halloween and most demons took this time off gratefully, Xander said he would patrol with the Bot.
Sophie had offered to pick them up at the airport. Buffy heard the car pull in and rushed out the door. Sophie had the trunk open and was emptying it of luggage. Buffy rushed out and offered hugs all around.
"Will I am so glad you are here, Dawnie come here," she pulled her sister into another hug.
Faith walked around the back of the cottage and stuffed her hands into her pockets. Better get this over with!
She gingerly walked up to the scene that played out before her.
"Hey…" was all Willow said.
"Hey," Faith said back.
Buffy let go of Dawn, she reached out and took one of Faith's hands and held on to it tight. Faith relaxed a little at this display but also noticed that Willow stiffened some.
Buffy noticed it too. "Hey Will everything is okay," she reached over and took Willow's hand in her other. This was symbolic to Willow…upon first meeting Faith she was jealous of their bond, but by Buffy taking both of their hands it sent a message that she needed both of them.
"Hey squirt" Faith said to Dawn.
"So, Faith you still psycho?" Dawn wasn't much for mincing words; she wanted to know if her sister was okay.
"Nah….gave it up…..Seriously! No Dawn, really everything is okay, promise."
"Good," Dawn brushed past her…"where's my room."
"I'll handle it B…" Faith kissed her lightly on the cheek and whispered "I love you."
"I love you too Faith. Come on Will let's walk," she linked their arms and headed down the path.
"So Buff….you look happy."
"I am Will, how are you doing?"
"Oh Okay…ya know…no magicks…I can say magicks now without getting all sweaty and stuff." Buffy missed Willow's babbles. "Giles even said maybe some day….I can do a little chanting….but not now!"
"That's good Will really, what about the other thing?"
"You can say the name Buffy…..Tara!"
"Okay Will 'Tara' …how are you?"
"I'm okay…it hurts, but it's getting less. And I almost feel guilty about that."
"Maybe you should talk to Dorian, she's been through what you are going through Will maybe she can help. I am so happy you are here…" she pulled Willow into a hug. "This place is amazing Will…I think you'll like it here."
"So squirt this is your room." Faith put her duffel on the bed, "you can share with Red…um Willow is that okay?"
"Ya, it's cool."
"Okay…well I'm gonna leave you alone…." Faith turned to leave.
"Faith you don't have to…um go you can stay."
"Ya sure?"
"Ya, but stop calling me squirt okay?"
"Ya I can do that Dawn."
"Will there is something that I have to tell you."
"Buffy are you okay…ever since we got here I've felt like a page was missing from my play book and I just couldn't follow along. You're not sick…ouu, ouu you're not like all apocalyptic or anything..gotta muster the scoobies and all?"
"Not Will slow down.." she took her friend's hands. "I am pregnant."
"Um Buffy you sleep with a woman….not my first choice for a woman but still a woman. Unless there is something you are not telling us about Faith???"
"No Will…..there is not. Ewww. It's some kind of Magicks…we don't know what…but I'm okay. Dorian has this Wiccy Doctor friend and she is doing all these blood tests."
"Wow did I say Wow….oh my god Buffy what are you going to do?"
"What's there to do Will…I'm gonna have a baby, freaky but true."
"Buffy…um who's the father? And I'm not like being my friend is a slut who's the father?"
"Well I've thought about that..Will promise you won't laugh?"
"No, but go ahead."
"Will I think the father is Faith."
"Hahhahahahahaha…sorry. But Buffy that's impossible."
"Ya Will cuz we see so much stuff that is possible….right."
"Ya you're right…sorry."
"Are you going to be okay with Faith Will ya know getting along and all. Cuz I am going to need you, I need you both."
"Scouts honor Buff, I will try my hardest. She does seem to love you."
"Ya, she does….she's been amazing. We have spent so much time together talking and taking walks…oh did I tell you she has a little sister now. Her name is Angelina…they call her Angel..creepy right? She is so cute I love her….she's like some kind oh witch child protegee…like the Yo Yo Ma of witches."
"Any prophecies we need to know about Buffy?"
"Nah, I think it's cool, but the kid will wig you out a little so don't say I didn't warn you."
"Fully warned. When are you going to tell Dawn?"
"ASAP…that's all I need, her freaking out."
"Faith, Faith…." Little Angel busted through the door.
"In here Tiger…." the little terror burst through and ran into Faith's arms.
Faith squeezed her…"how was your nap?"
"Boring," she was twisting strands of Faith's hair around her fingers.
"Hey, Buffy's family is here…. want to meet em?" Angel nodded her head up and down vigorously.
Dawn came walking out of the bathroom where she was depositing her overnight bag.
"Who's this," Dawn said.
"This is my little sister Angel."
Dawn gave Faith a questioning look and took the little hand…"nice to meet you Angel."
"Faith calls me Tiger," she giggled and buried her head in Faith's shoulder.
"Oh she does…are you a Tiger…."
"No silly I am a girl."
"Oh I thought you were a little Tiger."
Angel was pushing Faith's hair out of the way looking for her ear.
She cupped her little hands around Faith's ear. "She's pretty like Aunt Buffy….cept she is all green and special."
Dawn's eyes got wide, not since their run in with Glory had anyone else noticed the green energy that was all around her. Faith sensed Dawn's discomfort.
"She's a little witch Dawn…takes after her MOM!" She tickled the little girl. "Right Tiger?"
"Yup."
Faith put her down, and she reached for Dawn's finger…."come on let's go to the lake."
Dawn looked down then back at Faith…."Lake?"
"I am not supposed to go to the lake without a grown up….Mommy and Faith gets mad when I do. Even Aunt Buffy yelled at me once. She said she didn't want me all drowned up."
Dawn laughed…"is this kid for real?"
"Yup she's a hoot."
"Can I Faith …go to the lake with Dawn?"
"Dawn are you okay with it?"
"Umm sure…I guess."
"Just stay on the paths and you can find your way to anywhere. Hey Tiger to the lake and back no side tracking okay?"
"Sure Faith…come on Dawn" and she pulled the older girl out of the cottage.
Angel…hadn't stopped talking since she stepped outside with Dawn.
Good this kid talks more than Willow she thought.
"Then Mommy and I and Faith did a spell and now Faith is my sister…and Mommy's daughter like me. See…the lake?"
Dawn was taken back by its beauty…."wow it is really nice here."
"Ya want to know what else…? Aunt Buffy is going to have a baby…and Mommy said to Kate….'oh my I am going to be a grandmother!'"
"What…" Dawn was half listening…"Buffy is what?"
"A baby Aunt Buffy is going to have a baby," she was jumping up and down.
"Come on" she picked up the little girl and headed off down the path back to the cottage.
...continued in part 11...