BtVS Fanfiction by Phoenix0879

Welcome to Empires Legacy, the third story in the ongoing Legacy Series. It continues the story of Xander and his lover, the male Slayer Sebastian. This story is set a couple of months after the events of The Undiscovered Country and several months after the Buffy series finale Chosen.

Disclaimer: I do not own Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Angel the Series, any of the characters from these shows. They are the property of Joss Whedon, FOX and UPN. I am merely playing in this fantastic sandbox created by Joss. These stories are written purely for my pleasure and hopefully the pleasure of you, the reader. I make no profit from these stories, other than the joy of writing.

Thanks to Annuette who acted as Beta reader for this story, without her input there would be an awful lot of galring errors, repetition and basic grammatical errors that someone who has been using the English language as long as I have really shouldn't make!

With a soft thud, Buffy landed on her back in the soft grass. She groaned and flipped back onto her feet, eyes scanning for the Scythe. There, in Dawns hands. Rushing back into the fray, she started fighting side by side with her sister. Trading blows with their opponents, she risked a glance at Dawn.

“Had to be Rome, didn’t it? We couldn’t have picked Paris or Tokyo.” Her foot connected with a vampire’s jaw, spinning it away. As it flipped upright she flicked her arm and it staggered back, a stake protruding from its chest. She ducked a second vampire’s punch and connected her fist with its midsection.

Dawn laughed, using the Scythe to stake one opponent before beheading another. “Paris has that weird dimensional rift going on, remember? What did Giles call it? A proto-hellmouth? And Tokyo has... well, Tokyo’s just Tokyo. All those neon lights scare me.” She grinned and snapped her left fist backward, shattering the nose of a vampire that attempted to rush her from behind.

To their left, Satsu was also surrounded by vampires, her sword flashing in the moonlight, beheading a vampire in a single stroke. “Tokyo’s highly overrated anyway. I prefer Hong Kong myself.” she grunted, recoiling from a fist that connected with her face. Snapping out a kick, she twirled and brought her sword round in a glittering arc. A second vampire crumbled under her assault. “I’ll take you there one day, show you the sights…” although her body continued to move, her mind froze for a moment, realising how forward she sounded. “You too, Dawn.” she sighed inwardly *that was a good cover-up* she thought, reassuring herself, *Wouldn’t do for the boss to know I’ve a wicked crush on her.*

Within minutes they had dusted the last few vampires and they were left alone in the middle of the city.

“I wonder why they were so open?” Satsu asked. They were stood in front of the visitor entrance to the Colosseum. Although closed for the day, it still attracted visitors due to the magnificent after-dark lighting. Several civilians had been in the area when the vampires had struck, but they had fled when the attack began. “Do you think they knew we were meeting her here?”

Buffy sighed, “I don’t see how. It didn’t even seem like she knew who she was when I was chatting to her.”

Dawn glanced at her sister, both biological and Slayer. Silently, she walked over to a body that lay before the walls of the greatest amphitheatre the world had ever seen. Turning it over, she was staring into the cold dead eyes of a young woman, no older than herself.

“Buffy, do you have that photo?” she asked.

“Sure.” she dug the photograph out of her back pocket as she walked over to stand beside her sister. Looking from the picture in her hand to the body before her, she swore softly and screwed the photograph into a ball and discarded it.

“We can’t move her.” Satsu said, joining them and leaning down to close the dead girls eyes. “The local authorities will be here soon. We should leave.” Buffy sighed, her head bobbing in agreement. Silently they turned and disappeared into the night as the sirens approached from the darkness.




Bastian and Xander sat in a small pub in a north England city. The waiter delivered their food and winked at Bastian before he turned away. Seemingly oblivious to the attention, Bastian picked at up a chip and turned the page of the Pink Paper. “Hey look at that, the Nottingham parade is next month. I’d forgotten it was that time of year.” he looked up and saw Xander smiling as he too munched on a chip. “What?”

“You didn’t even notice, did you?” Xander asked ruefully.

“Notice what?” he asked back, pushing the paper to one side and leaning forward, resting his chin in his hands attentively.
“The waiter guy flirting with you.” Xander said with a small smile.

Bastian blushed slightly “Really? He was flirting? I never noticed.”

“Well, I did. Gotta say, it’s kind of appealing, knowing you only have eyes for me.”

“Always.” Bastian leaned over the table and pressed his lips against Xander’s. After the kiss broke, Xander cast a covert glance to where the waiter was clearing a table. A ghost of a smile played over his features at the slight hint of jealousy he saw.

“So. Parade eh? I’m guessing you want to go?” Xander inquired before taking a bite of his burger.

Bastian smiled at him “It’d be nice, you know. I guarantee fun and sunshine.” he paused for a moment, looking through the window at the dark storm clouds gathering over head. “Well, okay, I guarantee fun.” he paused again, looking at a framed photograph “Okay, I guarantee Poofs on Hoofs.”

“You what-now?” Xander frowned. Bastian gestured at the photograph, where several men rode in a parade on horseback, waving rainbow flags. One wore a shirt emblazoned with the phrase ‘Poofs on Hoofs’ and another wore a similar one with the words ‘homosexuals on horses’ on it.

“We could go with my friends, although Kel might...” he broke off as he caught Xander’s expression, “and I’m totally rushing into this, not even asking if you want to go.”

Xander sighed, pushing the food around on his plate. “I want to go with you. It’s just well, you know.... big and loud and... okay, I hadn’t got much past the big and loud.”

“And it would be your first time doing something so openly gay?”

Xander’s head moved slightly in acknowledgement “I know, stupid considering I’m doing the big old gay sex.” He looked up into Bastian’s eyes “which, by the way, have I mentioned is completely awesome anytime recently?”

Bastian reached out and took Xander’s hand. “Just constantly, maybe incessantly. It’s not stupid. My first parade, I hid in a doorway. Then again, I was fifteen and covered in more spots than your average McDonalds burger-flipper.” He squeezed Xander’s hand. “Tell you what, when we’ve done in this part of the country, we’ll head to Manchester. I’ll take you round Canal Street... although I’m thinking during the daylight first.”

“Canal Street?”

“Boys, drinks, shops, sex toys...” He paused. “Okay, so again maybe not my best idea. Ooh, I know, we can go to Brighton, queer capital of the country. Lots of cafes’ and bookshops, very everyday, but with rainbow flags.” He smiled warmly at Xander.

“Brighton sounds good.” Xander answered. “If you’re okay with it, I could contact Will, see if her and Kennedy want to spend some time here with us?”

Bastian smiled enthusiastically, “Yeah, that’d be nice. But first, we have Slayers to find. Next stop, Whitby.”

“Whitby?” Xander’s eye opened wide. “As in Dracula landed there Whitby?” Bastian gave him a silent ‘yep’ and Xander sighed. “Oh man, I’m so not the guy for this. Me and Dracula have a whole master-servant-butt monkey-bug eating history thing going on. I’m not sure going someplace he’s strongly connected with is a good plan.”

“Dracula is real?” Bastian asked, pushing his now empty plate away and picking up his drink.

“Oh yeah and that kid has some pretty fancy tricks. Mist-form, hypno-vision and oh yeah, he can return even after a stake to the chest.”

“He can’t be killed?”

“Well, we never tried direct sunlight. But I’d guess that short of constantly moving his ashes around so he was always in the sunlight, even that probably wouldn’t keep him down.”

“Damn. Still, that probably explains why the whole area is so popular with vampires. According to Giles’ source, there’s been at least two girls seen battling vampires around there.” He finished his cola and sat back in his chair. “So, you ready?”

“I guess.” Xander emulated the Slayer, relaxing in the chair. “But first I just want to, you know, bask.”

“Bask?”

“Well, see, I’m sat here in a gay pub with my gay boyfriend, eating our gay dinner and nobody seems to really care. It’s kinda nice, in a sappy way.” he picked up a stray chip and waggled it in Bastian’s general direction “Which you should be kinda honored to witness, as it doesn’t happen too often.” Popping the chip into his mouth, he chewed and then gave Bastian a warm smile.

Returning the smile, Bastian stood and held out a hand “Shall we?” with a gentle tug he pulled Xander up into his arms and planted a gentle kiss on his lips.

“Mmmmm.” Xander pulled on Bastian’s lower lip with his own. Slowly the kiss got deeper, as he slipped his tongue into Bastian’s mouth, his hand cupping the other mans ass.

With a groan Bastian broke the kiss, pulling back slightly “Mmmmm is absolutely right, but we have to go. Sacred duty and all that.”

“Well, I was thinking of a duty myself, but probably a very different one to what you’re talking about.” Xander squeezed Bastian’s ass and pressed their bodies closer.

Laughing warmly, Bastian broke the embrace and walked towards the door holding Xander’s hand. “Tell you what, we get to Whitby, find these Slayers and then we can do all the duty-ing you want.”

“Mmmmm again, I like that for a plan. Okay, lets do it...” He paused, glancing around them “Suddenly thinking I should rephrase that.”

The Slayer chuckled softly “Probably. Just one thing though... Butt Monkey?”   




“So, I think we should try the forum where I found here again, maybe someone knew her.” Buffy pushed open the motel room door, looking over her shoulder at Dawn as she stepped through, continuing the conversation. “Or if anyone else has been asking questions about her.”

“I don’t know Buffy, they’re probably gonna be pretty guarded. Still, I guess....”

“A-are you her?” They all stopped at the voice from their room. A girl staggered from the shadows of their room, clutching her stomach. “Are you?” Gasping, she collapsed in the small room, her face contorted in pain.

Rushing forward, Buffy turned the small girl over and gasped. Her movement revealed the terrible would inflicted by something that had tried to tear the girls stomach out. “Dawn, help me get her on the bed. I don’t want to risk hurting her anymore than she already is by moving her alone. Satsu, can you get us a bowl of water and see if there’s a towel or something?”

“Sure thing ma’am.” the Asian Slayer answered, slipping into the bathroom.

Buffy sighed “Quite with whole ma’am thing, will you?” Tenderly, she and Dawn lifted the young girl onto the bed as Satsu returned with a jug of warm water and a towel.

“Couldn’t find any bowls, afraid this will have to do.” she set the jug on the side table and handed Buffy the towel.

“Thanks.” tenderly, Buffy began cleaning the wound, the water and towel quickly turning a deep red. “This isn’t good, whoever attacked her did a real job.”

The girls eyes fluttered and opened a crack. Her lips moved but no sound came out. She tried again, but the sound was barely audible, even for the room full of Slayers. Bending down, she pressed her ear close to cracked, bloodied lips. “...emperor... risen...” she muttered. She took a deep, rattling breath and her whole body went slack, the life slipping from her eyes. Silently, Buffy reached out and closed her eyes.

“What did she say?” Dawn asked softly, crouching beside her sister and looking at the now serene face, the pain washed away in the peace of death. Behind her, Satsu picked up the jug and towel and took them away.

Buffy pushed upright, standing clear of the bed. “I only made out two words. She said ‘emperor’ and then ‘risen’, but there was a gap like she tried to say something else.”

“What do we do?” Satsu asked, sitting gently on the edge of the second bed.

“Well, if this was Sunnydale, I’d beat up Willy the snitch. As it is...”



The shrill ringing of the phone pierced the dark. The lump in the bed groaned and an arm snaked out from the covers, groping around. The ringing sounded again and the hand closed over the receiver. “H-hello? Ah Buffy. You do realise it’s...” he blinked in the darkness, straining to read the glowing numerals of his bedside clock “nearly two am?”

Beside him, another head appeared from the bed-sheets, rubbing her eyes before turning on the light. “Rupert?” covering the handset, he turned to her and mouthed ‘Buffy’.

“That’s terrible. And she said what?” He listened to the phone for a moment “Well, I’ll look into it, but it’s all very vague. And the possible Slayer you were to meet?” Again he listened and then sighed “It was bound to happen at some point Buffy, we’ve upset the supernatural balance. Clearly someone knew who she had become. All this does is empathize the fact that we need to find as many of these girls as we can, as soon as possible.” He paused again, listening to the phone “Yes, of course I’ll look into it for you. Take care Buffy, goodnight.” With a click he replaced the receiver and turned to smile at the ruffled bed-head beside him. “In about four hours...”



Buffy hung up the phone and ran a hand through her hair before turning to face the others “He’s going to look into it for us. In the meantime, we rest and then go out on the information hunt ourselves tomorrow.” She grabbed her toiletries bag and made a bee-line for the bathroom. “I’m gonna go soak in a tub of deliciously sinful bubbles for a while. And then we need to bury her somewhere, I don’t think the maid would appreciate a dead body in with the dirty sheets.”

Dawn collapsed onto one of the beds and reached for the remote control for their small TV. She started surfing the channels, distracting herself whilst Satsu swiftly stripped and changed into her sleeping clothes. Suddenly she squealed and dropped the remote. Satsu’s head snapped up from where she had just begun to clean her Katana and she saw Dawn fumbling for the remote control, trying to not to look at the television. Glancing at the screen her eyebrow shot up. “Is that position even physically possible for longer than two seconds? And more importantly, why is it on broadcast television?” she asked.

With a flicker, the screen went blank. “Okay, no more tv.” Dawn whispered. Satsu had to smile at the innocence the young woman before her displayed, a sharp contrast to her normal demeanor.

“You know, it’s not something to be disgusted by. It’s completely natural.” She winced at the memory of the image on the screen “Okay, so maybe that particular display wasn’t so natural, but you get the idea.”

Dawn laughed. “Don’t worry, I get it. Just never been a fan of the dirty movie thing. So crude.” She smiled at a memory. “Sex can be so beautiful. I remember when Willow and Tara made up, they were both glowing...” she broke off, crystal tears threatening to spill from her eyes. “Of course, then that bastard Warren ruined it all.” She looked up from where she had been screwing her hands in a ball in her lap. “You’d have liked Tara. She knew a lot of cool people. Maybe she could have found you someone special.” She grinned “Or at least a woman to relax with.”

Satsu’s eyebrows shot upwards again “H-how?” she managed to stammer.

Dawn laughed lightly “Satsu, I lived with a lesbian couple for over a year. I’m not blind. Besides,” she picked up her small bag, digging her phone out of it and then leaning towards the other Slayer before continuing in a whisper “I’ve seen you staring at Buffy’s butt. You might want to work on the subtle.”

Satsu sat on the bed in shock, staring at Dawn. Absently, she picked up her Katana and returned to the ritualistic cleansing of the blade. A little while later the bathroom door opened with a click and Buffy entered the room. Silently, Satsu grabbed her own toiletries bag and dashed past the blonde Slayer.

“Huh, what’s her deal?” the blonde asked as the young woman sped past her.

Dawn simply shrugged “Maybe she’s just dying to get in there whilst the Buffy-stink lingers.”

Buffy laughed and slung a pillow at her sister. “Very funny squirt. Just remember who’s the big Slayer here.”



Buffy awoke later that morning to an empty room and a short note beside her “Buffy, Giles called with a lead on another Slayer, me and Satsu have gone to check her out. No news yet on this ‘emperor’ deal, but he said he’d phone you if that changed. Will call you later. Love, Dawn.”

“Guess she’s not a little Slayer anymore.” Buffy mumbled. Her phone rang, glancing at the name on the small screen she smiled and answered “Hi Giles. Any more news?”

“Not much I’m afraid, but given what you told me that’s hardly a great surprise. I did find some reference to a handful of vampires that named themselves as an emperor, but most of those were in ancient China and Japan. The only one near your location was a Roman Emperor who was turned, but he was listed as destroyed millennia ago. I guess it’s possible that one of these vampire emperors went underground and have decided to make their presence known once more.”

“I guess. You don’t sound too convinced though.”

“That’s because I’m not, Buffy.” she heard his soft sigh over the connection “I’m afraid two words could mean just about anything, she could have been telling you the emperor penguins are rising to get their fish.”

“Penguins?” her voice sounded incredulous.

“Yes. Well, maybe that was stretching things a bit far. But you get my point I believe?”

“Yeah Giles, I do. Guess we’ll just have to keep our ears open down here.”

“You take care Buffy. Keep in touch.”

“Yeah Giles, you too. Take care.” Hanging up, she grabbed a clean pair of jeans, pulling them on, before slipping into a shirt which showed her midriff. Admiring herself in the mirror, she smiled, giving a little twirl. Grabbing her jacket and phone she turned for the room door. With a soft click, the door shut behind her and she walked towards the lift. Pressing the button she hummed lightly to herself as she waited for it to arrive. Since Dawn and Satsu were off doing the sacred duty thing, she figured she’d just explore the city. Things had been so hectic since they’d arrived two weeks earlier they had hardly seen anything of the ancient city. She smiled to herself as the doors opened with a ding and she stepped inside.

As the doors slid shut her phone started to ring. Sighing she pulled it out and glanced at the screen.

“Hi Dawnie, any news?”

“Oh, you’re awake then? You were sleeping so soundly we wondered if you’d ever get up!”

“Yeah, yeah, whatever. News. I’m guessing you have some to be calling me?” She asked as the lift came to a stop and the doors opened on the lobby. Stepping out, she walked to entrance and out into the mid-morning heat.

“Yep, I do.” Buffy smiled, she could practically hear her sister bouncing on the other end of the line. “Found us a Slayer. And she doesn’t think we’re crazy. She thinks she might be since a guy attacked her and on instinct she slammed a fallen branch through his chest...”

Buffy smiled “Let me guess, her attacker mysteriously vanished in a cloud of ash?”

“Right on the money. She’s kinda wigged, but all things said and done, not too bad.” Dawn answered.

“That’s good. Where are you guys and I’ll meet you. I was going to go buy something shiny, but being queen Slayer comes first.” Dawn quickly gave her directions to the café they were in. “Okay, I’ll be there as soon as I can. Get me a mocha if they have them.” She hung up and turned around, heading for a meeting she wasn’t really sure she was up to. How did you explain to someone who was thinking they might be going nuts that everything they feared in the dark was really real, and that it was their sacred birthright to defend against it?




“So, how you doing lover?” Bastian asked as he and Xander walked over the bridge across Whitby harbor. “Any desires to start munching on creepy crawlies?” The ancient town spread out before them and on the cliff above them, the ruined Abbey stood sentinel in the growing darkness.

Xander smiled and squeezed his lovers hand. “Not too bad. And no, no bug-munching urges.” They turned down a cobbled street, passing closed shops and the occasional couple. “So, any reason why we’re going to the Abbey?”

Bastian shook his head. “No reason, it’s just a lovely view up there, you can see clear across the harbor to the whole town.”

“Sounds kinda romantic.”

“Oh, it is.” Bastian squeezed the hand he held and lent over, planting a soft kiss on his boyfriend’s cheek as they started to climb the stone steps that led to the Abbey above. “Very romantic, especially when there’s a full moon and a clear sky.”

“Alas, two things we are missing.” Xander smiled. “Did I just use ‘alas’ in normal conversation? We should call Giles tomorrow and let him know, he’ll be so pleased that I’ve started using ‘proper words’ and all that.”

Bastian laughed as they reached the top of the stone stairs, the town twinkling below them as the darkness crept in. Out to sea, the lights of several vessels gleamed, shining pinpricks of light against the almost black expanse of the ocean. Xander looked around, silently taking in the view. He took a deep breath and squeezed the hand he still held tighter.

“You’re right, it’s an amazing view. With all the battling the eternal forces of darkness, I hardly ever stopped to simply look, you know? To look at what we save. Ever since... well, ever since...” he gestured towards his face. “Ever since, I’ve learnt to really see. To truly look at the world. Thanks.” He leant closer and placed a kiss on the Slayers cheek as they walked amidst the ancient Abbey.

“It’s nothing, Xan.”

“No, no it’s everything.” Xander smiled at the younger man. “But... that’s not.” He pointed through the gloom to where two vampires had appeared. “You know, someone really should speak to those guys about abusing clichés. Undead hiding out in Whitby? Have they never read the classics?”

“Feel like bringing them up to speed?”

“Why not, we can slip in a quick round of vampire cleanup before bed.”

Bastian smiled “You hang back, it’s my destiny remember. Just watch my back.” Without another word he dashed ahead slightly, a stake appearing in his hand.

Leaping up onto a bench, he propelled himself into the two vampires, sending them sprawling across the ground. Rolling he was on his feet in moments, slipping into his fighting stance as the first vampire rushed him. Ducking a right hook, he brought his fist up into the creatures stomach, staggering it backwards. He flipped the stake in his hand and prepared to stake the creature but at the last moment its foot lashed out, sending the stake spinning off into the darkness. “Great.” As Bastian muttered to himself the second vampire launched itself at him with a roar, landing on his back. Staggering backwards Bastian collapsed to his knees as his first opponents fist connected with his face.

“Hey!”

The vampire on his back looked up at the voice and lost its grip, hitting the ground hard as Xander ploughed into it in a textbook rugby tackle. Knocking his opponent back with a spinning kick, Bastian produced his spare stake and slammed it home. Turning back to Xander before the creature had even turned to dust, he was just in time to see the other man thrown clear of the vampire he had been wrestling. With a sickening crunch he hit the wall and slid down to the ground, barely conscious.

“XANDER!” Bastian bellowed, hurling himself at the vampire which was stalking towards his lover. He delivered a flurry of blows, in such rapid succession that the creature was taken completely aback. Finally it got in a blow of its own, knocking Bastian backwards. It smiled triumphantly for a moment and then crumbled away, the stake embedded in its chest clattering as it struck the ground.

“Xander? Xander!” Bastian dropped to his knees beside the other man, pulling him to his body and hugging him tight.

“Mmmm, I’m okay. Just let me rest.” Bastians head snapped up as the sound of approaching footsteps could be heard, along with faint voices.

“I swear, if those two have started a meal by themselves, I’ll stake ‘em!” a cold, harsh voice growled.

“Oh no, no resting here. Time to go.” Without another word, he scooped the barely conscious Xander up in his arms and fled into the darkness. As he bounded down the ancient staircase Xander stirred in his arms and groaned.

“Okay, you got the license plate of that truck, right?”

“Shh, quiet time now. We need to avoid the bad guys. Can you walk?”

“Maybe. Well, I could if my feet were on the ground.” Xander answered, smiling up at the Slayers concerned face.

“Only if you think you can manage it.” He turned a corner and set Xander down on his feet. Turning, he made to resume their flight through the streets. “Come on, we haven’t the tools or people to tackle a full nest full of vamps.” Taking a few hurried steps, Bastian turned when he realised Xander wasn’t with him. The other man was leaning against a wall, using it to keep himself upright.

“Okay, no walking for you just yet.” Bastian said firmly, retracing his steps to sweep the other man into his arms. Adjusting his grip slightly he turned and once more moved them through the dark streets.

The door to their holiday cottage shut with a soft click behind Xander and Bastian. The Slayer stalked down the hall and flung his jacket over the white leather sofa. Softly, he heard Xander follow him into the living room. He moved to the bay window and stared out at the town twinkling in the dark. Suddenly he turned back to pierce Xander with a fierce gaze.

“Okay Xan, spill. What the hell was that?” he demanded, his voice hot with anger.

“What? What do you mean?”

“I mean you almost getting yourself pulped out there. I told you stay back. Why the hell did you interfere?”

“You told me to back you up. I did.”

“Getting yourself killed isn’t backing me up, it’s breaking my heart!” Bastian retorted sharply. “Why do you patrol Xan? All you do is endanger yourself - and us.”

His own anger rising, Xander stepped closer to the Slayer. “Hey, I don’t know if you noticed but those two had the drop on you. I saved your ass.”

“I’m a Slayer Xan, I’d have bested them.”

“Yeah, maybe you would have. But from where I was stood it looked an awful lot like Mr Fang Face was about to get a hell of a lot more familiar with your neck than you or I would be comfortable with. So pardon me for feeling I had to help you out!” He gestured at Bastians jacket, a large tear on its back where one of the vampires had attacked him “As for why I patrol, I do it because I have to.”

“No, you don’t Xan. You don’t have to be out there. You shouldn’t be out there, you’re too fragile to go up against all we face on a nightly basis.”

“Fragile? Fragile!” Xander asked, incredulous.

“Yes, fragile! You’re just a guy Xan, an ordinary guy. You shouldn’t be out there. You mean too much to me for me to risk losing you.” the last part came out barely a whisper.

“That’s not the point Bastian. I have to be there. I can’t see the things I’ve seen, know the things I know and not do anything. That would be worse than joining with the bad guys. You know why? Because I’d feel the guilt, knowing I’d stood by and done nothing as the world burned, innocents died.”

“You still shouldn’t be there in the thick of it. It’s not your job!”

“And what, it is yours?” Xander demanded, his voice rising.

“Yes! Yes it is Xan. You may have missed it, but this is more than my job. It’s my destiny. I have to do this, you don’t!”

“No Bastian, it’s not your destiny, it never was - it was your sisters!” Xander yelled. Immediately he wished he’d never spoken.

Bastian’s face went white with anger. “Out.” He said the single word quietly, no trace of emotion in his voice.

“Bast...”

“I said out Xan. Just go. Find a church to stay in for the night.” Bastians voice remained calm, but Xander could hear the strain in it, the barely suppressed rage.

“I...”

“GO!” Bastian bellowed, the anger finally exploding. Stunned by the final outburst, Xander turned and left, the door swinging behind him as he fled into the night. With a roar of frustration, Bastian flung himself onto the sofa, the tears of anger and pain flowing freely down his cheeks.

Stumbling and cursing himself, Xander wandered the silent town. How could he have been so foolish? He hadn’t meant that about Bastian’s sister. He was just angry, so angry! Why didn’t the man he loved understand that he HAD to fight? He wandered the streets, lost in his thoughts, for a time he would later be unable to account for.

How had it come to this, he asked himself. Why couldn’t one of the scoobies ever have a happy relationship? He sighed, looking around and realising that dawn was fast approaching.

“If only Buffy or Willow were here.” he mumbled to himself, looking around, taking in his location. Towering before him was an archway, resembling wishbones, giant wishbones. Wish... his mind wandered. *I wish I could talk to Willow* Absently, he slid his hand into a pocket, his fingers sliding over something cool and smooth. Closing them around whatever it was, he pulled his hand back out and uncurled his fingers, staring at the small stone in his palm. *Guess some wishes do come true* He closed his hand again and squeezed the stone tight within his grip.

*Hey Will, hope this isn’t too early for you.* He thought, feeling foolish. He didn’t even know how this would work if Willow was sleeping. Would he get a mental answer phone? An engaged tone?

*Xander? Why are you calling me collect at this hour?*

*I’m sorry to bother you Wills, but I need to talk to someone. I think I ruined it.*

*Ruined what?* The redhead’s concerned voice asked in his mind.

*Me and Bastian.* Even in his mind, his voice seemed small and lost. *We ran into some vampires last night and I got knocked about. Me and Bast fought afterwards. He thinks I should stay safe at home, I’m too fragile to be out fighting.*

*He what?*

*Said I’m too fragile to be out there.*

*Fragile? I think I need to have a chat with Mr Macho Slayer.*

*Will, I’m not exactly innocent. He claimed he has to fight, that it’s his destiny. I kinda yelled that it isn’t, it was his sisters.*

He stood there, watching the sky grow lighter. *Will? You still there?*

*Give me a moment Xander.*

He sighed and moved to a bench, lowering himself to the cool wood. He continued to stare out to see, the departing fishing boats resembling ghosts as they flitted in and out of the mist clinging to ocean.

“Hey silly boy.” a soft voice said, a small hand resting on his shoulder. Xanders’ head snapped round and he stared at the small redhead stood beside him.

“Will!” Leaping to his feet, he hugged the redhead tight. “Oh gods Will, I’m so glad to see you. I really need a friend right now. But, how?”

The worlds most powerful witch smiled at him and wrinkled her nose “Magic.”

“Magic? But I thought you flew. Not even Concorde could have made the trip that quick!”

“Teleportation.”

“Teleportation? But why didn’t...”

“Why didn’t I use it when me and Kennedy left?” Willow interjected and Xander nodded “Simple, it’s really quick but has horrible side effects - me and Kennedy are going to have something closely resembling four-alarm hangovers tomorrow. Flying make take longer, but it’s not as rough with the after effects.”

“Kennedy’s here?” he inquired.

“Yeah,” Willow replied, sitting on the bench and beckoning for him to join her. “I took her to where you and Bastian are staying. Figured he could use someone to talk to as well.”

Xander gave her a look and she laughed. “She may be abrupt at times and, okay, a little spoilt acting but she is a good listener and has a way of getting through to people with the plain talking. But we need to talk.”

“Yeah, I know. I feel awful Wills. Liz meant the world to him, she was literally a part of him. And I just insulted her in the most awful way. I don’t deserve him.” He buried his face in his palms and let out a single, racking sob.

“Tosh.”

“Pardon?” He asked, looking up.

“I said *tosh*” the witch replied. “You DO deserve him. Sure, you said something awful. But then again, so did he. You are not fragile, Xander Harris. He knows that. But he loves you and worries about you. You don’t have any superpowers, no spectacular skills.” She reached up and laid a hand on Xanders cheek, turning his face up to look into her eyes. “But you do have one thing he’s underestimated, which is surprising since he holds the key to it.”

Xander looked at her questioningly. “Remember all those years ago, in Sunnydale? The Initiative thing with Adam?” The witch inquired.

“Yeah, that was a mad time alright.”

“Remember that spell we did? The enjoining spell?”

“Like I could forget it Will. It’s the only time I’ve felt true strength. Buffys’, yours, Giles’. It was amazing. We were amazing.” Despite himself, he smiled at the memory.

“Remember what part of the spell you were?” She lowered her hand and laid it on his chest. “You’re our heart Xander, our passion. Bastian has that and he hasn’t even realised it.”

“Thanks Will. But you didn’t see him. I’ve never seen him so angry. We’ve had our little squabbles in the past, but this was so much more. Will, Liz was a part of him. I wouldn’t blame him if he never spoke to me again.”

Willow smiled at her best friend. “He’ll speak to you again Xan. And he’ll forgive you. You both said some terrible things. It was a fight, these things happen.”

“How do you know, Will? How do you know he’ll forgive me?” He asked, his voice small.

“Simple. Experience. I did a lot, lot worse to Tara and you guys and you all forgave me. I raped your minds Xander and yet all of you still forgave me.” She smiled sadly. “There isn’t a day goes by I don’t regret what I did back then.”

“That was totally different, you had a serious magic addiction.”

“It doesn’t change a thing Xan. In many ways it makes what I did that much worse, because everyone was trying to help me. But I’m not the point here, you and Slayer Boy are. How about we go grab some breakfast whilst Kennedy chats to Bastian and then we can all meet up?”

Xander sighed “Okay Wills, you twisted my arm. But I don’t think he’ll listen to me.”

“Maybe. We’ll see. Come on, munchies.”



She rapped on the door, waiting in the chilly morning breeze. An elderly man smiled at her in greeting as he passed by walking his dog. Sighing, she reached out and knocked again, sharper this time.

“Come on Bastian, I know you’re there. I can hear you. We both know a door ain’t gonna stop me.”

The door opened and a puffy-faced Slayer stared out at her. “Kennedy?”

“The one and only brat-Slayer, at your service. Can I come in, it’s not exactly warm out here.” She wrapped her arms around herself and shivered in the morning chill.

“Come in then. Hot chocolate?” he held the door wide and let her in, following her down the short hallway. “Make yourself comfortable.”

“Hot chocolate would be great, thanks.” she said, taking a seat on the sofa. Bastian appeared in the doorway to the kitchen, a jar of hot chocolate mix in his hands.

“I’m guessing, since you’re here, Willow is too?”

“Yep.” Kennedy answered.

“She’s gone to find Xander?”

“Yeah, she’s off trying to stop her best friend and your boyfriend doing something monumentally stupid. Although from the footnotes version I got earlier, I guess he’s already done that.”

Bastian turned and stalked back into the kitchen. He heard the soft creek of leather as his guest stood. Ignoring her presence, he grabbed two mugs from the shelf and spooned the dark powder into them.

“Or maybe you both did?” She asked quietly, leaning in the doorway. Bastian continued to concentrate on preparing the drinks, his shoulder tensed. “I’m taking that as a yes.”

“Are you going to prattle on like this all day?” Bastian grunted, turning his head to look at her.

“Only if you insist on giving me the silent treatment. Look, whatever happened you need to get it off your chest. Tell you what, how about we go someplace to train, full on, no holding back. You can release some of that pent up aggression.”

“Fine.” Bastian handed her the steaming mug “If it’ll get you off my back we’ll train.”

“Or we could talk.” Kennedy countered, returning to the sofa and cradling her drink. “What happened?”

“He insulted my sister’s memory.” Bastian almost spat the words.

“Okay, big bad there. But what happened, why did he do that?” Kennedy probed. “I know carpenter boy, it takes something to set him off.”

“I simply told him he should stay out of harms way. He’s fragile!”

Kennedy looked her fellow Slayer in the eyes, “Fragile? Tell me you didn’t call him fragile to his face.”

“I... Well...” Bastian trailed off.

“Oh boy. No wonder he went off at you.” Bastian opened his mouth, his face turning slightly red, but Kennedy held up a hand. “Shut it. You both screwed the pooch on this one. Xander’s a true hero, Bastian. He’s not like you and me, he doesn’t have the strength, speed and healing factor. He’s just a guy. And yet practically every night he’s out there, fighting against the darkness. You and me Bastian, we have to do this. He doesn’t. He’s not fragile.”

Bastian glared at her “Fine, take his side on this.”

“I’m not taking sides. He shouldn’t have mentioned your sister, that was flat out of line. Point is, you both said some terrible things. And you both have to apologise.”

Bastian jumped up from the armchair he had been curled up in “I?! Why should...”

“You called the guy fragile! He’s fought against a GOD in the past, for crying out loud.”

“And he insulted Liz!” Bastian yelled.

“Bastian, get a grip! You both said things to hurt each other, that’s usually the point of arguments!” Kennedy retorted, her own voice rising. “Now both of you have to be man enough to admit you said stuff you shouldn’t have and apologise for it.”

“I...” the male Slayer collapsed back into his chair. “I guess you’re right.” He muttered, his voice low.

“Damn straight I am.” the dark haired Slayer agreed with a grin.

Silence stretched between them, the air thick with emotion. Finally Bastian looked up from where his hands had been clasped in his lap. “So...”

Kennedy had been staring out the bay window, the bay stretching before them. She twisted her head back to look at the Slayer “So...”

“A god?”

“Yep. Willow filled me in. Kinda had to after the whole ‘I tried to destroy the world with magic’ thing. Battling Glory was what really got Willow into the magicks.”

“And Xander?”

“Whacked her with a demolition ball.”

Bastian coughed, his eyes widening in shock. “A demolition ball?”

Kennedy laughed at his reaction. “Yeah, pretty much my reaction. They’ve been through so much together, sometimes I feel...”

“Separated? Yeah, I know the feeling.”

“I love Willow, I really do. But sometimes I just...” the dark haired Slayer shook her head and laughed softly “Sometimes I just lose my head. We have our whole lives before us and I’m jealous of her past? How selfish am I?”

“I wouldn’t say selfish, I’d say human. They’ve led such incredible lives. When I think back to what I was like just a year ago, clubbing and picking up guys.” He laughed as Kennedy made a face. “Oh, you should try it once. A bit of lube, legs wrapped round your head. Its very...spiritual.”

“Oh yes, spiritual. I’m sure.” She laughed with him.

“But now. Now I’ve found a guy in a million, I have a destiny and I have friends, real friends.” He smiled and she couldn’t help but smile back. “I feel more alive than I’ve ever felt before.”
                                   



“Well, she took that well.” Buffy said with a small smile. “All things considered. Why didn’t you tell me the vampire used to be her boyfriend?”

“She was kinda wiggy, I thought it better to get back to the comforting thing. You sure she’ll be okay on the flight to England by herself?” Dawn asked, looking at T-shirts in a store window. “That purple one would go great with my new pants.”

“You’d only get vamp dust on it. And yeah, Giles said he’d meet her at the airport and then take her to his new training place, bring her up to speed.” She paused, looking at the top again. “It is nice though, maybe you could save it for Sunday best slayage.”

“Absolutely.” She glanced over her shoulder, a questioning look on her face.

Buffy let out a sigh. “Go on then Dawnster. The council will pick up the tab.” She smiled “Why is it, now that we have access to near limitless funds through Giles redirecting the council to actually helping the Slayers, I have sudden hang-ups about splurging on clothes?”

Satsu offered her a wry smile. “If you’re anything like me, you’re like that because it isn’t your money. You’ve spent all your life earning your keep, now it’s just been offered to you.” She fingered one of the badges on her bandana. “How much money has the council got, anyway?”

Buffy gave a nervous laugh. “I can’t count that high.”

“Seriously?” The Asian Slayers’ eyebrow raised in surprise.

“Seriously seriously. Seems our dearest Council had been squirreling away money for centuries, to help fund the ‘war’ against the darkness. They just seemed to think that meant leaving the Slayer to do her best with a couple of axes and a ropey old crossbow whilst they supped Earl Grey in their fancy armchairs and ran around going ‘I say old chap, a new Slayer has been called’” She adopted a mock English accent, causing Satsu to laugh. Buffy smiled “I like when you laugh. We deal with such darkness on a nightly basis, it’s nice too laugh.”

The Asian Slayer shuffled her feet, glancing down at them before looking back to Buffy “You made with the funny, not me.”

“Yeah, but with me it’s a nervous tick. Seemed genuine coming from you.”

Satsu smiled at the compliment. “Thanks. Oh, hey Dawn.” She greeted her as the final part of the threesome returned from the shop. “You missed Buffy complimenting me.”

“Compliments eh?” She turned to her sister “You feeling well?”

“Very funny squirt. Come on, lets get back to the hotel, see if we’ve heard from any more girls who have mysteriously become super strong and fast. And then...”

“Patrol.” The other two Slayers said in unison, before laughing as one.

“Great. Surrounded by comedians.” The blonde Slayer muttered.


A short while later, lounging in their room, Buffy scanned through the contents of her inbox on the laptop Giles had provided. “You know,” she mused “I could get used to all this new-fangled technology. Did you know there’s at least three attacks a day in Rome that bear all the hallmarks of demon attacks?”

“Three a day?” Dawn asked, looking up from her magazine. “That many? How come we’ve never heard about them?”

“Well,” Satsu interjected, “I’m guessing the local authorities aren’t exactly up to speed on all manner of hell beasts, so they probably just get recorded as ‘mystery attackers’. That’s what it was like in Chicago.”

“Yeah, that was my guess.” Buffy said, opening an email and scanning through it. “The police in Sunnydale were the same. All the vampire attacks that were witnessed got recorded as ‘gang related, possible PCP involvement’ incidents.” She clicked another email open, her eyes brightening as she read the contents. “Hey girls, saddle up. We got a taker. Says she’s local and will wait for us at Janiculum Hill, between three and four. Got a picture too.” She turned the screen to show the others.

“She’s pretty.” Satsu commented.

“If you like Emo’s.” Dawn said laughing.

“Nothing wrong with Emo.” Satsu retorted. “Went through that stage myself. Had to give it up, the fringe thing really started to annoy me.” She fingered her bandana and smiled “I’ve since found it’s better to find my own style.”

Snapping the laptop shut, Buffy slid off the bed and grabbed her jacket. “Come on you two, we have to go tell some terrified girl that she’s got super powers but chances a horrible, early death at the tentacles of something icky.” She led the others out of the room.

“Icky eh?”

“Oh yeah. Did we ever tell you about the hellmouth demon that lived under our highschool? It had like three heads and tentacles as thick as your arm. Ooze and well, you know, icky.”

Dawn laughed. “I swear, that’s all she ever talked about when we were kids. Apocalypse this, Hellmouth that. Always with the apocalypses and tentacled demon thing.”

“That’s a blatant lie!” Buffy exclaimed. “It so wasn’t always about the end of the world!”

“No, just that or Angel!” Dawn retorted, poking her tongue in Buffys’ direction.

“Angel?” Satsu asked. “Who’s that?”

“Buffys’ first boyfriend. He was a vampire with a soul. Big with the brooding and atoning for his sins.”

“You dated a vampire?” Satsu asked, the surprise evident on her face.

“Two.” Dawn added.

“Two vampires?” Satsus’ surprise actually seemed to increase. “You are aware of the concept of vampires and slayers, right?”

Buffy laughed “Yes I am. Those were two very exceptional exceptions and I have no plans to repeat them. I’ve moved on with my life, Angel and Spike are my past. It took almost losing a friend to get me over that, but it’s done now.”

“You sure?” Satsu asked as they turned a street corner and the park came into view.

“Yeah. No. Maybe. I’m just...” The blonde trailed off, “I miss being held. Being close to someone.” She glanced at Dawn. “No offense Dawnie, but I’m talking a little more than sibling hugs.”

Dawn laughed softly “It’s okay, I get you. Oh, lookie, Emo ahead.” She pointed out the girl sitting on a bench in the shade of a copse of trees. “So, who gets to make the intros this time around? I call you Buffy, me and Satsu had the last one.”

“Oh, the pleasures of responsibility.” Buffy said softly, taking the lead of the small group. She stopped a few feet from the bench and spoke softly “Lauren?”

The young woman looked up, her face worried. “Are you Buffy?” The blonde Slayer nodded the confirmation of her identity. “What’s happened to me?” She asked in a small voice.

Gently, Buffy stepped closer, glancing over her shoulder at the her fellow Slayers. ‘Give us ten minutes’ she mouthed. Silently, the pair wandered off. Sitting down on the opposite end of the bench from the other girl, she turned her head to look at her.

“It’s a long story, one that starts thousands of years ago.” Buffy began, her voice soft. “You may not want to believe it.”

The girl laughed harshly. “I put my fist through a door and when some guy tried to jump me I threw him thirty feet. Anything you say can’t be as weird as that.”

“Okay, footnotes version it is. You’re a Vampire Slayer. Normally there’s only ever one at a time, but a few months ago all that changed. Now there’s hundreds, maybe even thousands of us.”

“Vampires? Okay, maybe you can say something stranger than me throwing a guy down a street.”

“I knew you wouldn’t believe that. God knows I didn’t when I was told.” Buffy responded, her voice low. “How long ago was that? Gods, almost eight years.”

“Eight years?” Lauren asked. “You’re serious about this, aren’t you?”

“I wish I weren’t. I wish I could tell you it was all a dream. But it isn’t. If you’ll trust me, I’ll show you the world and how to survive it.”

Lauren took a deep breath and let it out slowly. “Okay. I have a few things to do today, but I’ll meet you later.”

Buffy smiled in acknowledgment “Here at eight?”

“Eight. Thank you Buffy.” She stood, smiled at the Slayer and walked off.




Lauren rang the door bell. No one answered. She reached out to knock, but the door swung wide as she touched it. Pushing the door wide, she stepped into the short hallway. “Art?” She called out. “You here?” She walked into the living room and stopped, the lifeless body on the couch staring at her.

Without warning the living room door slammed shut and an arm snaked around her neck, holding her tight. Shaking, she felt a tongue trace up her neck and a soft voice whispered in her ear. “Shh, don’t scream. You might wake the dead...”
 



“I don’t understand, she said she’d be here.” Buffy stalked the area of grass near where she had spoken to Lauren earlier, looking around constantly for the missing Slayer. “Where is she?”

Dawn looked up from where she was sat on the bench, fiddling with her phone. “Maybe she decided you were nuts and not to show.”

“Maybe. But she seemed to accept what I said...”

“Or maybe she was simply humouring you to get rid of you.” Dawn replied.

“Or she could be over there.” Satsu said, pointing out the approaching form of the emo Slayer. She paused “And being accompanied by five vampires. What’s going on?” Lauren stopped a few yards from the threesome and smiled.

“I’m glad you waited for me. I had to change.” She smiled at the three Slayers.

“Why do I get the feeling she’s not talking about her clothes?” Dawn asked softly, her hand reaching for the sword strapped to her back, shifting her stance ever so slightly.


Lauren laughed, a cold sound in the growing dark. “Very astute little Slayer.” She shook her head, canines extending, brow furrowing as her eyes turned a feral yellow. “The Emperor has requested I bring him some choice combatants for the games. I think you three will do very nicely.” She stalked towards them, her five companions spreading out.

Dropping into a combat stance, Buffy watched the vampires as they approached. Slipping the Scythe from her back, she rocked slightly on her feet. “You know this is a bad idea. You should ask around.”

“What, you’re some kind of big bad super-Slayer?” The former Slayer laughed. “Be still my non-beating heart. If you don’t come along quietly, we’ll just kill you.”

Buffy laughed. “You know, that threat is just an old hat these days. Do you have any idea how many things have said that to me? And I’m still here. Hell, not even death stops me.”

Dawn smiled and stared at the former Vampire Slayer. “She’s right. Little miss resurrection.”

Lauren rolled her eyes. “Enough. Are you going to come with us or not?”

“I’m thinking... not.” Buffy answered, her voice flat. With a roar the vampires charged them as one.

Ducking one attacker, Buffy rammed her shoulder into another, sending herself and the creature tumbling over the carefully tendered lawn. Rolling, she straddled the vamp and brought the Scythes’ stake end down. Just before it connected, a foot caught her under the chin and flipped her away from her victim. She looked up to see Lauren standing over her, yellow eyes piercing the dark. With a speed Buffy had never seen in a vampire before, she lunged down and picked Buffy up by her throat, holding her high.

“It’s interesting, you know. I was just a normal girl and then, wham, one day I had all this strength. But now, now I’ve got even more.” Effortlessly, she flung Buffy against a tree. Gasping for breath, Buffy slid down to the ground, Lauren stalking towards her like a predator hunting her prey.

Around them, Satsu and Dawn battled the vampires that had accompanied her. Dawn back flipped from one, her foot connecting with the vamps face, hurling it backwards. Landing on her feet, she slammed a fist out, knocking another one back before ducking a roundhouse kick aimed at her head. Twirling, she grabbed an arm and flipped the vampire it belonged to on its back, her stake flashing out as it landed. Without pause she continued the dance, picking up her sword from where it had fallen when a vampire had jumped her.

Pushing herself unsteadily to her feet, Buffy leaned against the tree, watching the ex-Slayer swaying before her, her piercing gaze fixed on the blonde Slayer. Tilting her head, she smiled “You know, I feel so connected now. I can hear your pulse, thump thumping. I think I might have a lick.” She inched closer, her gaze fixed on Buffy’s neck.

“You wouldn’t like me. Apparently, I taste chalky.”

“Oh, just one little kiss. I promise it won’t hurt much.” The vampire leered.

“Kiss this!” Buffy exclaimed, slamming her fist into Lauren’s face, knocking her back. Leaping up, she planted both feet into her opponents chest, separating them. Dashing forward, she grabbed the Scythe that had been knocked from her grasp, bringing it up in a glittering arc to decapitate one of the other vampires as she pursued the ex-Slayer, kicking her back down as she tried to scramble to her feet. She drove the Scythe downward, aimed true at Lauren’s heart. At the last moment she rolled away, dodging Buffy’s blow. Swinging her leg round, she knocked Buffy off her feet before flipping herself upright and dancing away from the Slayer.

Mirroring her opponent, Buffy flipped herself to her feet and began to circle the vampire, shifting her balance from foot to foot, trying to anticipate Lauren’s move. She continued to watch, waiting for the moment, the clue. Every opponent had them. Something that gave them away. It was a natural Slayer gift to pick them out almost instantly. Normally it would take years of specialist training, but Buffy simply could. Ever since she’d been called. She knew the others had it as well.

There. She’d never be able to say what it was, but that was it. She was going to lunge to the left then change to the right. Buffy tensed. Everything slowed down. Lauren began her attack and Buffy propelled herself upwards, leaping high over the charging vampires head. Spinning in mid air, her foot connected with the back of Lauren’s head and sent her stumbling. Caught off balance she stumbled into the fight still raging between Satsu, Dawn and two remaining vampires.

Dawn’s attention peaked and she bent forward, feeling the vamped Slayer hit her back. Her momentum sent her rolling up and over Dawn, crashing into the vampire she’d been fighting. With all her force, she slammed her stake home, pushing it all the way through Lauren and into the heart of the vampire beneath. Both erupted into dust in an instant.

Seeing his companions defeated, the final vampire punched Satsu in face, following up with kick to the gut and finally rammed his knee into her face. As she collapsed to the ground he turned and fled into the night. Dawn started after but Buffy put her hand out, touching her shoulder.

“Let him go. We’ve got more important things to deal with.” She bent down, rolling the wheezing Slayer onto her back. “Like making sure Satsu is okay.”

Dawn helped Buffy get Satsu on her feet and slowly they guided the unsteady Slayer back towards the hotel. “I’ll drop you two off and you can clean her up while I patrol.”

Buffy looked her in the eyes. “No, none of us is going out alone until we know what we’re dealing with here. She said something about the Emperor wanting ‘choice combatants’, we need to find out what that’s all about before we go wandering the city on our own.”



Xander sipped his coffee, staring out at the morning hustle and bustle. He turned to look at the redhead beside him.

“You know Will, Bastian is right in some ways.”

“Oh? How’s that, since I thought we’d agreed you were both being poop-heads?”

“Will, I am fragile. No, wait. Let me explain. I’m just a guy Will, we know that. I haven’t got any special strengths in combat, no training. I’m just an ordinary guy who can’t stop trying. But I wasn’t always.”

“Xan...”

“Will, I want you to do something for me. Give me back my military knowledge from that Halloween incident during high school.”

Willow stared at him, dumbfounded. “What do you say Will? Give me it back, just make sure I’m still me, yeah?”

“No.” Willow said softly.

“No? You can’t keep me me?”

“No, no I won’t do it. Memories aren’t something to be trifled with Xander, remember the mess the last time I tried that kind of mojo?”

“Yeah, but you’re so much more controlled now than you were then. And I’m not asking you to alter my memories, just blow the cobwebs away.”

Willow sighed. “Look Xander, I know you want to have something special, but the truth is you already are. You keep us all grounded. The answer is no. It’s no now and it will always be no.”

Xander looked down at his empty cup. “I had to ask Will. I was this kick-ass soldier for one night and for a year afterwards I could still remember it all. It would have been nice to contribute something.”

Willow reached out and took his hand in hers, giving it an affectionate squeeze. “I’ve already told you, you do contribute to us. Remember the cliff top? Yellow crayon?”

Xander smiled gently. “I remember, although the whole veiny thing doesn’t really work for you. Glad you gave it up.”

“What do you want to do?” Willow asked, releasing the hand she’d been holding.

“I think.” Xander said, standing up. “I need to go apologise to someone for being an ass.”

“I’ll walk with you, get Kennedy out of your hair whilst you do the big make-up thing. Can I ask you one thing?” She held the door of the little café open for her friend.

“Sure, shoot.”

“This place you two are staying, has it got a spare room? We’re gonna need somewhere to sleep off the effects of the teleportation.”

“Yeah, it’s a holiday cottage, two big bedrooms, tiny living room and amazing sea views. You two can have one tonight. Come on, it’s this way.” He said, leading Willow down the street.

Willow smiled and started to skip, “You know, if you two want some, well you know, quiet time later on we can skip out for a bit.” The witch grinned at him, a mischievous twinkle in her eyes. Xander grinned and punched her gently on the arm.

“I’m sure if things work out, that we’ll be able to contain our primal urges for one night.”

Willow laughed. “Where’s the fun in that? Besides, it won’t stop me and Kennedy.” She winked at him and laughed even more.

“Discretion is the better part of discretion Will.” He frowned slightly. “Wait, something’s not right with that.”

Laughing, they strolled through the town, the sun shining down.



“That’s fascinating Buffy. And you’re sure she said that the Emperor was gathering ‘choice combatants’ for some sort of games?”

“Sure as sure.” She responded, kicking her legs as she relaxed on the bed. “Huh, just how sure is that, do you think?” She mused.

“I beg your pardon Buffy?”

“Oh, nothing. Just thinking.”

She heard him chuckle on the other end of the line. “Don’t distract yourself from your slaying. Leave the thinking to me.”

Buffy laughed brightly “Thanks, I think I will. We’ll try a bit of researching on the web here, we’re not going out tonight, I figured it would be best if we waited until we could go out in force.”

“Yes, that sounds the best course of action. If this Emperor you face had recruited one Slayer - and I believe it was deliberate given they tracked and turned her in the few hours between your two encounters - then strength in numbers certainly seems the best bet, as I think he will probably have turned others.”

“Wow, there’s a cheerful thought. Call me when you get something or if you don’t.”

“Of course Buffy. You take care of Satsu and get rested. I’ll speak to you soon.” Giles said warmly.

“Speak soon, bye.”

“Hey Buffy, look at this.” Dawn indicated the laptop.

“What ya got there Dawnie?” Buffy asked, sliding off the bed to look over the brunettes shoulder.

“I did a basic search using the keywords ‘emperor’, ‘combatants’ and ‘games’. With me so far?” She asked, glancing up at the blonde Slayer, who nodded in silent understanding. “The only results that came up with all three were the old gladiatorial games they used to hold in ancient Rome. I figured there had to be something more, so I did a series of more involved searches and cross-references.” She paused, clicking through a number of pages on the screen, showing Buffy the various searches she had placed into different windows.

“And?” Buffy prompted.

“And it’s the only common link coming up.”

“Well, it’s something to consider I guess. Giles is going to get back to us in a little while when he’s had a look through his books. In the meantime, why don’t you have a soak in the tub?”

“Mmm, sounds good.” She said, pushing back from the laptop and padding into the bathroom, humming cheerfully to herself.

Buffy smiled and glanced at Satsu who lay on a bed sleeping. Dropping into the chair that Dawn had just vacated, she started reading through what she had found.


The door to the cottage opened and Willow led the way in, calling out for her partner. “Kennedy! Come on brat-girl! There’s an amazing view I want to show you.” The brunette Slayer appeared, taking the red haired witches extended hand. Together they slid past Xander, Willow offering him a warm smile of support. “Remember, *call* me later.” She whispered. The door softly shut behind the pair before Xander could respond.

Silently, he stood in the short hallway. He tried to step forwards, but his feet wouldn’t move. He swallowed, closing his eye. He tried again, his eye still closed. He opened it and he was one step closer. He took another breath. Another step. He stopped in the open door to the living room.

Suddenly, he noticed Bastian was there. Standing across the room from him, his back to Xander. “Hey.” Xander spoke softly.

“Hey.” Bastian answered.

“Look, I...” Xander broke off, struggling with the words. “I...” Bastian turned to face him.

“I’m sorry.” They spoke in unison. “You first.” They both spoke again. Xander raised a hand and gestured for Bastian, but the Slayer simply shook his head.

Xander let out a nervous laugh. “Well, one of us should go first. Guess I’ll take the bait.” He nervously stepped a little further into the room. “I’m so sorry Bastian. I shouldn’t have mentioned Liz like that. I was just...” He broke off, unable to articulate the sentence. Absently, he picked up a photograph of himself and Bastian on a theme park ride, taken less than a week earlier. He stroked the happy, if terrified, faces. “...upset. I lashed out. I shouldn’t have. I know I’m not a great fighter Bast, but I have to try.”

“I know. I just... I hate the idea of you being hurt. I don’t think I could deal with that. I don’t want to deal with that.”

“Bastian, I’m not going to stay here and hide from the things that go bump in the night. I do have an idea though. Teach me.”

Bastian frowned. “You what-now?”

“Train me Bastian. Sure, I’ve picked up a few things over the years, but I’ve also forgotten a lot of them, mind you. But I’ve never been properly trained. You want me to be safe, but I won’t stay inside hiding away. Simple solution, train me.”

“I... I don’t know what to say Xan. I’m flattered you’d ask me and not Buffy.”

“Just say yes.” Xander replied softly.

“Yes.” He paused for a moment. “I am sorry. I shouldn’t have called you fragile. No one who can stand against a god should be called that.”

Xander blushed. “You heard about that, huh?”

“Yeah, Kennedy brought me up to speed. Apparently Willow has being spreading tales of the adventures of the scooby gang.” He said with a smile.

“Has she now? I think I’m going to have to have a little chat with a witch.”

“Maybe. But I am sorry.” He said softly, stepping closer to Xander, watching the other man intently. “Very sorry.” He got closer. “Can I hold you?” He whispered.

“Always.” Xander answered, his own voice barely above a whisper. Taking the final step, he pressed their lips together, feeling all his distress and worry dissipate in an instant. Between kisses her finally managed to mutter a single word. “Bedroom...”

Several hours later, Xander stepped from the shower, briskly toweling himself off and getting dressed. Walking into the living room, he picked up his jacket from where it had been discarded in their passion and paused as he heard movement in the kitchen. Opening the door, he saw his Slayer moving about, preparing food. “Say, if you’re cooking prepare enough for Willow and Kennedy, I said they could stay the night in the other room. Something about that teleportation, they’re gonna be rough in a few hours.”

Bastian looked up, smiling. “Sure thing. You off out?” He gestured at the jacket in Xander’s hand.

“Yeah, I’m going out for a walk. I’ll track down Willow while I’m out.” He dashed in for a quick kiss. “Maybe spank her for telling tales about me.”

“Don’t you dare. That’s reserved for me.” He winked.

Xander blinked, then laughed. “Why is, when Anya mentioned that I found it massively disturbing. Yet when you do, I just think it sounds fun?”

“Raw animal magnetism?”

“Very funny. I’ll see you soon.” He stopped at the door and turned back, letting go of the handle. “I’ve been thinking Bastian,”

“Thinking? During all of that, you were thinking?” He smiled and shook his head. “Balls, I must be losing my touch.”

“Okay. Maybe there wasn’t much thinking for the last few hours.” Xander grinned, walking back down the short hallway to the living room, stopping in the doorway. “But I meant in general. It’s nice here Bastian. We’ve been to what? Twenty different towns and cities in the last six weeks? We need a place to return to, someplace to call home.”

“You want to settle down?” Bastian asked.

Xander smiled, crossing over to the other man and planting a soft kiss on his lips. “Oh, not settle down. Just a place to return to at the end of the day. I’m not keen on living a nomadic lifestyle forever, traveling from town to town living out of a suitcase.” He stepped away from his partner, opening a drawer and removing a small stack of papers. “I picked these up yesterday. I was going to show you, but then...” He trailed off, his discomfort at discussing their recent disagreement evident. Sitting down on the couch, he beckoned for Bastian to join him and held out the first one. “Take a look, tell me what you think.”

Taking the offering as he sat down, Bastian studied the images of the two hundred year old house. “Wow, this is beautiful.” He whistled. “Grade two listed though, not too sure it would be Slayer friendly. Bad things have a nasty habit of trying to hurt us. I doubt people would be too happy if we got this place smashed up.” He dropped it onto the coffee table and took the second one from Xander.

Smiling, Xander laid a hand on the other mans leg, rubbing it lightly. “Tell you what, you look through those while I go out.”

Bastian smiled, laying his hand over Xander’s. “Sure thing. And you’re right, it is beautiful here. I can’t think of a nicer place to return to at the end of the day.”



The door chimes tinkled. Closing the door behind him, Xander looked around at the narrow store. Several gothic style shirts hung on one wall, beside a selection of posters similarly themed. A display case held pentagrams and other pendants and several Athames were in case on the wall. A young gothic woman smiled at him, the same polite but false shopkeepers smile he’d seen on Anya so often.. “Good afternoon.”

“Hi, I was wondering if you could help me? I’m looking for something.”

Recognising his American accent, the woman smiled. “I’m sorry, but the Dracula experience is closed at the moment for refurbishment. But we do have a wide selection of gothic merchandise for that undead vibe.”

“I’m not after the Dracula experience, been there, done that.” He smiled and waved his hand dismissively. “He’s highly overrated. I’m looking for a memory charm.”

Instantly the young woman’s demeanor changed in a heart beat. She smiled more genuinely, but concern showed through. “Ah, a practitioner. Sorry, but we get a lot of tourists, hence all the dark. You’re a long way from home.”

“I kinda think this is home now. Ever since the Hellmouth collapsed and destroyed the town, I’ve been kinda nomadic. But it’s nice here. Cold after California, but nice.” He flashed her a genuine smile. *I just hope Bastian does too* he thought. *I hope one of those places appeals to him.*

“You’re from Sunnydale? I felt that. I think every magically attuned person did.” She shook her head, bringing herself back to the subject. “A memory charm? Are you sure, those things can be highly unpredictable. And then there’s the whole morality of altering someone’s mind. Personally, I’ve always steered clear of them.”

“Yeah, I’ve had a couple of bad experiences myself. But I’m not after altering anybody’s memories, just refreshing mine. See, I used to have all this really useful practical knowledge, but over the years its faded. I just want to blow the cobwebs away.”

“Hmm, let me see.” The young woman mused, running her finger along some books. “Ah, here we go.” She placed a thin book on the counter and flipped through the pages. “What you really need is a restoration charm, to restore what you once had. They’re far more stable than memory spells and charms. Okay, lets see.” She picked out a small selection of herbs and incense, placing them on the counter beside the book. “I’m assuming you’re familiar with basic spell casting.”

Xander smiled. “A little bit. My best friend is powerful, we’ve done a few spells together. But this, I want to do this on my own.”

“Oh. Well, it’s a simple cast and the incantation is basic enough, so you shouldn’t have any issues so long as you’ve cast a stable circle, are well rested, calm and centered. How long has your friend been practising, maybe they could give you some general hints on meditation?” she asked, ringing up the items for him.

“Five or six years. She had a... blip a few years ago. Lost herself for a while. But she’s back now, changing the world.” He smiled again, thinking of all the good Willow was doing now.

The woman paused, looking up at him. “Sunnydale, you said? Willow Rosenberg?” She asked in a small voice.

Taken aback by the abrupt change in her body language and voice, Xander answered carefully, his voice neutral. “Yeah.”

“Tell her to check out the bench near the fountain in the park. She had friends across the world.” Her voice was soft as she spoke to him

“Who did?” Xander inquired, lost by the change in the young woman.

She smiled sadly. “You should go with her.” She tapped a key and looked back to him. “That’s £32.79 please.” Xander handed over the cash. “Thank you, I hope the charm works out for you. And take her there, even if it’s just once.”

“Sure thing. And thanks again.” He gave a small wave and opened the door, stepping out into the mid-afternoon light. Turning down the street he thrust his hand into a pocket and wrapped his fingers around the small stone.

*Hey Will. Where are you guys?*

*Oh, hey Xander. Did you guys make up?* Willows voice asked in his mind.

*You know, this mind to mind deal still makes my brain hurt when I think about it.*

*Well, don’t think about it, you’re the master of that.* The witch retorted.

*Hey, I resent that! But yeah, we made up. Wasn’t the only thing that was up, either.* He grinned wickedly to himself, imagining his friend’s reaction.

*Okay Xander, that’s just gross. I think I’m gonna puke.*

*Yeah, me too. I was pretty barfy after swallo....* He broke off abruptly as he sent the sarcastic comment at her.

*Oh Xander, just stop will you. Or am I gonna have to toad you? *

*I don’t think Bast would appreciate that.*

*Okay, enough with the chit-chat, Kennedy’s getting bored watching me stare into space. What’s up? Creature feature?*

*No, no creature feature. Just letting you know Bastian’s cooking dinner, there’ll be extra for you two.*

*You dialled my brain to tell me about dinner?* He felt her surprise. *That’s not exactly what I had in mind when I gave you the stone.*

Xander smiled as he turned a street corner. *Yeah, well, I didn’t know if your cell would work over here.*

*Oh. Okay. Didn’t think of checking that out myself. I’ll do that later.*

*Dinner at six, see you later Wills.*

*Yeah, see you later Xan.*

Whistling, he turned another corner and found himself in the park. He paused, wandering what had brought him here, he’d just been walking in the sun, paying his destination no mind. Looking around, he saw the fountain in the distance. The shopkeepers mysterious comments returned to haunt him and he started to walk towards it and, as he grew closer, he saw the four benches spaced equally around it. As he approached he saw a small bronze plaque on the nearest bench. Bending down, he read the short dedication ‘In loving memory of Deidre Kasal’. Pausing, he looked to the next bench, a chill running through him. Moving to it, he looked at the dedication and bent down, reaching out to run a finger over the plaque. “In divine remembrance of Tara Maclay.” He read aloud.

“Oh yeah,” He whispered to himself. “Willow needs to see this.” Turning, he left the park, dodging a pair of cyclists.



“I like this one.” Bastian said, handing Xander the one he’d picked out.

Xander smiled as he looked at it. “That’s amazing.” He said softly, running a finger over the image.

“What is?”

“How much on the same wavelength we can be on occasion. That one is my favourite too.” Xander answered with a warm smile. “I’ll call Giles to see if the Council can spring for it; it’s got two guest rooms, so we can also set it up as a Slayer staging post either for missions or a safe house for new girls, girls fleeing or something like that.” He ran a hand through Bastian’s hair, ruffling it slightly. “But first, we have a few hours before our guests arrive.” Taking Bastian’s hands in his own, he stood up and pulled the other man to his feet, leading him into the bedroom.




“Hey sleeping beauty.” A soft voice welcomed Satsu back to consciousness. Opening her eyes, she saw the blonde Slayer staring at her in concern. “How you feeling?” Buffy asked.

“Oh, you know, like I got pummeled.” Satsu smiled weakly, “I really need to learn that whole ducking thing. So, what do we know?” She asked as she sat up on the bed, running her hand through her hair. “And have we got plenty of shampoo? I think I still have vampire in my hair.”

“Well, the only thing we’re finding is old.” Buffy answered, twirling a stake as she spoke.

“Old?”

“Like, sandals and togas old.”

“Oh. So, we hunting toga clad bad guys later then?” Satsu asked, standing and stretching as she did.

Buffy shook her head “No, we don’t even know if this stuff is related, it’s all rather randomy. But we are going hunting, we need info. You better get cleaned up, we’re leaving at sunset.” The click of the bathroom lock sounded in the small room and Dawn stepped out.

Satsu gasped, because Dawn had undergone a major make-over, resembling the emo/goth style she had mocked a few days earlier. Buffy laughed. “We figured they’d never go after one of us, knowing that we’ll be traveling in a group. Hence, Dawn going undercover as a young, eager and entirely inexperienced Slayer.”

Dawn stared at her sister and scowled. “I feel like such a doofus in this outfit.” She waved her hand at the new clothes she wore. A dark purple T-shirt under a slightly battered leather jacket accompanied a skirt so short that it barely extended below her crotch. Purple and black striped leggings with heavy, Doc Martin style boots finished the basic ensemble. “And why did we have to cut and die my hair pink?”

Buffy stifled a laugh. “Because we want you to look like a girl who isn’t a Slayer that they’ve seen before.”

“Besides,” Satsu winked at Dawn. “The goth look is so you. Makes you look cute. And pink suits you too.”

Dawn smiled. “You think so? You’re not just saying that?”

“Nope. Not many folks can pull off the pink hair.”

“Including me.” Dawn grumbled, running her hand through her new, much shorter haircut. “We could have used a wig.”

Buffy shook her head and laughed. “Satsu’s right, it actually does suit you. And a wig might come off in a fight, blowing the whole thing. Not sure if I’m happy with my kid sister wearing a skirt that short, but we need a completely un-Dawn-like Dawn.”

Pushing herself up from the bed, Satsu ran a hand through her hair again and made a face. “I need to shower.” She said and slipped past Dawn and shut the bathroom door behind her.



Buffy leapt lightly from roof to roof, watching the pink hair bobbing down the street below. On the other side of the street, Satsu mimicked her, moving from roof to roof in complete silence. They had been out for four hours now and Dawn had slain three vampires, but no one had taken the bait. Buffy sighed and came to a stop, crouching down and pulling out her cell phone. Punching the speed dial, she waited for the call to connect. Almost instantly, Dawn’s voice picked up.  

“Yeah?” Dawn deliberately kept her greeting terse so as not to tip off anyone who might be listening in.

“Lets call it a night.” Buffy said simply. “Head back to that bar we passed, the rock one. We’ll meet you in the restroom.”

Ten minutes later, Dawn left the restroom wearing a blonde wig, red leather pants and a white top. Buffy wore the jacket and Satsu had a small bag carrying the top and skirt. Swiftly, they slipped into the night and returned to the hotel.

Collapsing onto the double bed she was sharing with Dawn, Buffy let out a sigh. “Who would’ve thought it’d be so hard to get hold of information?”

Satsu sat down, opened her cleaning kit and once again started the ritual cleansing of the blade. “We’ll just have to keep hunting them. You were right earlier, we can’t go off half cocked on this, we need to know what we’re up against. Whoever this guy is, he’s managing to keep a low profile whilst still causing some serious trouble.”



Xander opened his eyes and groaned as sunlight hit him. “What time is it?”

“Nearly eight.” Came the sleepy answer. Xander rolled over and looked at the sleep-tousled face beside him as Bastian smiled warmly at him. “Morning. We should get up soon,” Bastian said, his voice tender. He gasped as a hand ran over his chest and Xander leant in, nibbling at an ear lobe before whispering in his ear.

“I’m already up.”

Bastian smiled. “So I noticed.” Capturing Xander’s mouth in his own, he let his hands explore, grasping the other mans ass and pulling them closer, pressing their bodies together. Breaking the kiss, he stared longingly at Xander’s face. “But we have guests.”

Pressing back into the kiss, Xander let his hands continue to explore, rubbing the thumb of his right hand over a nipple he was rewarded with a gasp of pleasure. Pulling their lips apart, his face wanton with desire, he whispered again.

“Willow’s a domestic Goddess, they’ll be okay for an hour or two.”

His lover arced an eyebrow. “An hour or two, eh?” Rolling them over so that Xander was on his back, he smiled down at his lover and began to kiss his way down the smooth skin of Xanders chest, heading lower. “You know, this is the kind of breakfast in bed I could get used to.” With a twinkle in his eye, he licked his lips and moved down the last few inches.



Willow smiled as Kennedy hopped from the bed and started doing naked press ups. Staring at her girlfriends ass moving up and down her smile transformed into a grin. “Why do you bother with those? It’s not like you need the exercise, you’re a Slayer, mystically fit forever.”

Pushing up on one arm, Kennedy twisted her upper body and smirked up at the witch. “To drive you wild.”

“Ah. Well, consider your evil plan foiled.” Willows voice was rich with laughter as she swung her legs out of the bed. Wincing, she pressed a hand to her forehead. “Ouchies. My head hurts. Darned teleportation. I need to iron out the kinks in that portal spell, we can’t go through this every time we’re needed. I feel awful.” Standing, she grabbed her shirt, pulling it on.

“Speak for yourself, I feel fine.” Putting all her effort into her last pushup, Kennedys’ body carried on in its upward movement, until she ended up on her feet once again. Willow stared as the Slayers breasts bounced with the movement.

“I do wish you wouldn’t do that, it’s a tad unnerving having a girlfriend who can bench-press Oprah on a bad diet day.” She pulled on her pants as she spoke.

Kennedy pouted, swinging her hips as she walked towards Willow. “Well, that wasn’t exactly the response I was seeking. More, your body is captivating and arousing...”

Willow smiled, grabbing Kennedy’s shirt from the chair and tossing it at her girlfriend’s face. “Come on, we need to cook breakfast for our hosts.” Opening the door, she paused then closed the door and lent against it, her face flushed. “Umm, maybe we should wait a while. They sound...”

Kennedy smirked again. “Occupied?” Willow only flushed even more. “Well then,” Kennedy stepped closer, reaching out and tugging at Willows shirt. “I guess we’ve got a little time to kill...”





“Mmm, great eggs Will.” Xander smiled as he paused in devouring his breakfast. “So, what did you two get up to whilst we were out for the count?”

Willow laughed. “From the sounds we heard, didn’t sound like you were out for anything.” Xander coughed and choked on his breakfast. Bastian started to laugh whilst he slapped the other mans back.

“You know, you make this really high pitched squeal when you climax.” Bastian smiled as this time Willow started to choke on her breakfast.

“Okay.” Kennedy said, grinning. “How about we save the you say, I say game for another time. So, what we got planned for today?”

“Well, I need some new clothes.” Willow said with a smile.

“Shopping, sounds good.” Kennedy said, rubbing the witchs back. “Any good stores round here?”

“One or two, I could show you them.” Bastian offered, Willow and Kennedy glanced at each other then nodded.

“Shiny, sounds good to us.” Kennedy answered with a smile. “You coming along as well Xander?”

Xander shook his head. “Nah, I’m gonna stay here. After that chat we had last night, you know about setting up some permanent accommodation here, I’ve been in touch with Giles and he’s agreed to forward us the funds we need. I’m going to call the Realtor…” He paused, looking at Bastian’s confused expression. He smiled. “Sorry, Estate Agents… to arrange a viewing.” 

“Okay.” Willow said. “Just remember, no basements.” She added with a smile, pushing her chair back and taking the empty dishes away.



Xander shifted the armchair back against the wall and moved the coffee table out of the way. Arranging the items from his bag as the small book described, he sat down and began invoking the four elements as he cast the circle around him “...bless this endeavor.” He finished, feeling the power rush through him. No wonder Willow enjoyed it, he smiled at the thought. But he knew his limits, he was no warlock. He could already feel the drain just casting the circle had put on him.

Picking up the Fluorite crystal, he stared momentarily at the deep purple stone, turning it in his hand. Placing it on a small red cushion before him, he began to reading the incantation from the book laying open beside him.

“I call upon the elements here present and the Divine, in all its glory, to aid in my request. I offer this crystal as a focus of my intent.” He took a deep breath, the power was rising already. ‘Odd’ he thought ‘It doesn’t normally get this intense when Willow does magic, not this quickly anyway.’

“I seek to restore what has faded, memories dimmed by time brought back to the present.” He gasped as a tendril of magic whipped up and lashed at him. “I beseech thee...” Another tendril touched his skin and knocked his breath from him.

“This isn’t right.” He gasped, the energy growing more violent, swirling around him in multi-coloured tendrils.

Willow dropped the shirt she was admiring, her face going pale. “Red?” Kennedy asked, her voice soft with concern. “What’s up?”

Willow looked around, her gaze distant. “I have to go, someone’s in real trouble.” She left the shirt lying on the floor and strode purposefully towards the exit.

“What do you mean?” Kennedy asked, falling into step beside the witch.

“Someone’s casting a spell and it’s going seriously wrong. I can feel it. The magic around here is going crazy.”

“How will you find them?” She asked as they reached the street and Willow turned purposefully, setting off at a brisk pace.

“I just will.” She waved a hand with a mutter and set off at a run, faster than even Kennedy could follow her.



Running up a hill, Willows’ heart began to race. She recognised the route, the streets and houses becoming familiar. “Please, let me be wrong, let me be wrong.” She chanted under her breath. Turning a corner she saw the building at the centre of the magical disturbance. “Aw crap.” She muttered, sprinting towards the cottage. With a flick of her hand the door flew open and she dashed into the living room, skidding to a halt at the site before her.

Xander lay curled up in the centre of the room, the power flowing around him, flickering in arcs that lashed inside the barrier of his circle.

“XANDER!”

He lifted his head from the ground, staring at her. “H-hey Will. I - I think I screwed up.”

“What? What the hell were you trying to do?” She asked, holding out her hands, feeling the power of the magic filling the air. Even contained within the circle, it was rippling outwards, disturbing everything around it. It was that ripple which had drawn her. “And how did you generate so much power?”

“N-no idea.” He gasped out as more energy washed over him. “It was just a simple restoration charm, I swear.”

“Your memories. You tried to... I told you it was a bad idea!”

“I know... aargh... I know.” His voice was racked with pain. “Can you stop it?”

“Not from out here, the circle’s closed. Not even I have the power to break into one of those, not from the outside. And don’t try from the inside, that circle is all that’s containing the power.” She circled him, taking in every detail of the circle and its contents. “You need to open a door for me.”

“W-won’t that let it loose?” He threw his head back and howled in pain as the energy lashed against him again, singeing the hair on his arm.

“No, not a door. It’s a one-way opening, letting me in but keeping the energy contained. You need to picture a doorway, an opening.”

“I’ll... I’ll... aargh... I’ll try.” He screwed his eye shut and concentrated, picturing a doorway. He struggled with it, the pain almost overwhelming him. Finally he felt a change and gasped. Two hands grasped his shoulder and he looked up into green eyes filled with concern. “H-hey Will.”

“Good work Xan. Now, where’s your book? Lets see what I can do to fix this, yeah?” Looking around, she spotted the book and picked it up, quickly reading the spell through as an ethereal wind whipped her hair across her face. “You were right, this is a simple spell. So what the hell’s causing this?” A tendril of energy lashed across her stomach and she winced. “Ah, who cares. We’ll deal with that later, right now I need to fix this.”

Sitting down in the circle, she dragged Xander upright. “Come on, face me. Here, take my hands. The power is here now, we have to make use of it. Which means, as much as I hate the idea, completing your spell.”

“Charm.” Xander corrected her.

She laughed. “Whatever spell-boy. It’s all magic. Now close your eye and let me guide you.” Xander did as she asked, taking a deep breath as he did so. “Okay,” She continued. “First, lets close the door.”

Closing her eyes, Willow felt Xander close the circle. Opening her mind, she felt out for Xanders’ magic, grasping it and directing it towards its purpose. The energy began to focus, spiraling down into the crystal. The ethereal wind that had assailed her from the moment she entered the circle died down.

“Pick up the crystal.” She instructed him. “Hold it tight in both hands.”

Doing as she asked, Xander clasped his hands around the crystal. “What now Will?”

He looked as Willow wrapped her own hands around his. “Shh, I’m driving.” She whispered. Opening herself, she let a tiny amount of her own power trickle out. “Ancient forces, we in this circle call upon you to aid us, guide us in the completion of this work. Your son here seeks to restore to himself that which time has faded. Memories that time has dimmed we beseech you make as new. Memories and skills generated by magic be once again as fresh as the day the spell was broken.” Purple light flared from inside their hands. Releasing her grip, she lowered her hands and smiled at Xander.

“Open your hands Xander. It’s almost done.” She smiled reassuringly. Slowly he opened his hand, letting the still glowing crystal rest in his palm. Without warning a shaft of purple light connected the crystal and Xanders’ forehead. With a flash the crystal went clear and toppled from his hand.

Neither of them said anything for a moment. Finally, Willow spoke into the silence. “Xander? You okay?”

Shaking his head as if clearing away some cobwebs, his eyes focused on her. “Sorry Will, just... it’s all coming back. Everything I knew.” He offered her a reassuring smile. “Thanks for saving my ass there. Any idea what went on?”

“Nope. Come on, lets close this circle and get back to the others. And when I have some new shoes, we can try and figure out why such a simple piece of mojo went awry.”



Willow and Xander walked past the sailing ship moored in the harbor, a few paces behind Sebastian and Kennedy, laden down with shopping bags. “You know Will, for a brief visit you sure have bought a lot of clothes.” He hefted one of the bags with a smile, shaking it at the witch.

“Hey, if we’re going to be popping around all over the planet, we could do with a stash of clothes here and there.” She smiled up at him with wide, puppy-dog eyes. “Care to look after these for us?”

He laughed, juggling bags to reach out and pat an arm. “Nice try with the eyes Will, but only one person can nail me with that trick these days.” He gave her a caring smile and she returned the laugh lightly. “But, if Bastian and I get a place here, sure thing, you two will always be welcome.”

She gave him a look, which asked a hundred questions silently. He smiled. “Yeah, we’ve been talking about getting a place here. Bastians place in Nottingham is... well, I don’t want to say small, but tiny might suffice.” The smile transformed into a grin and he shrugged. “I like it here Will. Sure, the weather is a very, erm, special experience, but look around.” He gestured with a shopping-laden arm. “It’s so cool here.”

Willow grinned back. “I do declare, Xander Harris, that you are one smitten scooby.”

“Oh yeah, don’t you know it.”

Her face and tone went serious as she continued. He could practically feel the concern washing off of her. “Why Xander?” She asked, her voice soft. “Why did you try that spell? You’re no spellcaster.”

He sighed. “Will, you know why. As for me not being a spellcaster, can I remind you about whom here did an incredibly powerful and dangerous soul restoration as her first casting? After waking from a coma no less!”

“Xander, that was totally different. World in peril and all that. Normal starter spells are wards of protection and luck. A restoration charm is big compared to that.” She exhaled in frustration. “I know you get tired of being the one with no powers, but Dawn told me what you said to her back when we thought she was a Potential. Why the change of heart?”

“Because I love Bastian, Will. I want to be with him forever, I want us to live our life. Not lives, but life. Two as one. And that means being there, beside him, side by side as we fight the darkness. I can’t do that as I was. With this knowledge, I’ll be better able to stand with him.” He stopped, thinking about what he had just said. “And wow, that was so much more than I meant to say.”

“It’s okay.” She reassured him. “And I understand. I think you were terminally stupid to try it, but I understand. It’s kind of cute.” She gave him a lopsided smile as they walked. “So, how are you going to explain this to him? He’s gonna be annoyed, worried and probably irritated as all hell that you didn’t tell him what you were planning. And he’ll have good reason. Relationships are built on trust Xander.”

They walked on in silence, Xander lost in his thoughts, troubled by what Willow had just said. Had he betrayed Bastian by doing this? He didn’t think so. He’d done this so they could spend by more time together. He’d understand, wouldn’t he?



The sun was setting, bathing the room in orange light. Bastian relaxed on the sofa, flicking through the CD’s they’d brought with them. “What do you fancy? Rock or pop?” He asked.

“Surprise me.” Xander’s voice filtered through from the bedroom. Picking a CD, Bastian placed the remainder on the coffee table. Hopping up, he placed the CD in the player, the room filling with the opening chords of ‘Mad Brilliant’ by Ghost of the Robot. “Mmm,” Xander’s voice was soft as he entered the room. “Not heard that one in a while. Good choice.” Sitting beside Bastian he rubbed his head and frowned.

“What’s wrong Xan?” The other man asked.

“I need to tell you something and you’re probably going to have a major wiggins over it.” Xander answered softly.

“Uh-oh, that sounds ominous.” He turned on the sofa, tucking one leg under himself as he faced Xander fully. “Come on, spill. We’ve got a couple of hours whilst Will and Kennedy are out tracking down that Slayer.”

“You know Will ran off earlier to sort out some mystical mayhem?”  Xander asked slowly, playing idly with a pen. Noticing his nervous movements, he set the pen to on side. Bastian nodded his understanding and for him continue. Xander took a deep breath. “It was me.”

“It was... Why? What happened?” Bastian’s voice was confused and concerned as he asked the immediate questions.

“Bastian, you need to understand something first, do you promise to let me explain this before you leap in?” The other man looked worried, but his head bobbed in consent anyway. He took another deep, shuddering breath. “I love you, love you like...” He broke off with a nervous laugh. “Who would have thought this would be so hard? Anya was right, I struggle with this, telling people how I feel. I don’t want you thinking I don’t care for you because I struggle to say it. I love you more than anyone I’ve loved before. Know that. I want us to live our life together. Not lives, not your life and my life running alongside each other. Just our life, two as one. With me so far?”

Bastian looked quietly stunned by Xander’s announcement, but managed a soft positive response.

“When I say that Bastian, I include everything, even the Slaying. When you’re out there fighting the fight, I want to be there, side by side with you. Did Willow ever tell you about our first Halloween after Buffy arrived?” Bastian looked a little thrown by the apparent non sequitur and shook his head. “An old acquaintance of Giles’ came to town, he’s got a real passion for causing chaos. He cast a spell causing everyone who bought a costume from his store to turn into that costumes character. I became this kick ass soldier, with all the training and knowledge. Once the spell was broken, that knowledge remained, gave us an edge every now and then.” He smiled at the memory. “I’ll have to tell you about The Judge one day.”

“Okay, I’m with you so far.” Bastian said quietly, knowing Xander wanted some response, if only to encourage him to continue with something that seemed to be bothering him.

“Well, over the years that knowledge faded away. So...” He hung his head and the next came out in a rush. “IdidaspelltorestorethememoriessoIcouldstandwithyou.”

Bastian sat quietly for a moment, processing what Xander had said, trying to wrap his head around the uncharacteristic babble. Finally, he found his voice. “Why? Why would you risk that?”

“Because of what I said earlier. I’m not...” He laughed. “Okay, I wasn’t, the best fighter. In fact, lets be honest, I was kind of a liability. A liability with heart, but still... But I will be with you, if you’ll have me, to the end of the world. So I did a spell to give me back something I once had that could help me. Coupled with our training, I won’t be a Slayer, but I’ll be better than I was.” Looking at the other mans face, he couldn’t read the emotions on it. “How do you feel?”

Bastian rubbed his head and stood, pacing the room, staring out at the sunset. Turning, he looked Xander in the eye. “Angry. Worried. Upset that you didn’t tell me. And... amazed.”

“Amazed?” Xander asked, picking up on the softly spoken final word.

“Absolutely. It was reckless and stupid and obviously something went wrong or Willow wouldn’t have had to dash off like she did.” Xander smiled and nodded his head in acknowledgment. “But it’s amazing that you’d do that for us. I had no idea you felt that strongly about us. It’s...” He broke off, lost for words.

“Frightening?” Xander asked, his voice concerned.

“Yes. No. Both I think.” He returned to the sofa, taking one of Xander’s hands in his own. “I love you Xan, but I had no idea how deep your love for me went.” He released the hand and reached up to brush a cheek. “Just so you know, I do love you.”

“So you’re not mad?”

Bastian laughed dryly. “Oh, part of me is; it was a monumentally stupid thing to do. But the ‘oh my god, how amazing’ thing is kind of over-riding that at the moment. So, what went wrong to have super-witch race to your rescue?”

“We’re still not sure. Will thinks it may have been a conflict between the two spells, the one I cast and the one Ethan cast all those years ago. He used chaos magicks and I was using restorative, healing magicks. She thinks that’s the most probable cause. Oh, I almost forgot.” He rummaged around on the coffee table and held up a sheet of paper. “We’ve got a viewing of that house tomorrow at eleven.”

Bastian smiled warmly. “Really? That’s great.” He placed a swift kiss on his partners lips. “Come on, we’ve got plenty of time before they return. Lets make good use of it.” He kissed Xander again, far more passionately this time, letting his tongue explore the mouth that eagerly opened to admit it. With a moan, he pressed their bodies closer, his hand roaming the body before him. 

Xander let out a low gasp as his lover rubbed a nipple, teasing him. He responded by deepening the kiss, letting his own hands wander, questing for the heat he could feel rising in his lover.

Willow sat on the same bench where she’d met Xander before, staring out to sea. Overhead gulls circled, their calls surrounding her. The sea breeze was refreshing, clearing her head as she sat there thinking. It had taken her and Kennedy several hours to track down one of the Slayers operating in the Whitby area, the girl had been somewhat wary when they had approached her. Although she’d accepted the existence of vampires, convincing her that there were people who could help her had proven a little more difficult. In the end Kennedy had had to duel with her, to prove that they were equals. Now they were on a train to London and a meeting with Giles and the reborn Watchers Council. Kennedy was hoping to be back later that evening, but nothing was set in stone yet.

Willow sat there, thinking. *Xander seems so content. He’s settled in with Bastian far easier than he did with Anya, like it’s meant to be. So why can’t I be happy for him?* She stood and began to wander through the town, paying little attention to her path. *Am I jealous? I like Kennedy, but it’s not the same as Tara. They remind me so much of when she was here.* Her mind continued to race, musing over the same thoughts in dozens, hundreds of different ways.

Settling down onto another bench Willow looked around. It was dark now and with a start Willow realised she was in a park, sat by a small fountain. Clearing her mind, she prepared to cast a small spell to guide her to the holiday cottage when her cell phone rang. She smiled at the tone, Kennedy had never understood why she wanted Alice Coopers ‘Poison’ as her ringtone, as it was very un-Willow. Kennedy could never understand that it was a reminder to Willow of what the magicks could do. They could literally become poison running through her veins. Willow sighed. *Tara would have understood it*

Glancing at the screen, she flipped the phone open. “Hey soldier-boy. How did things go?”

“Oh, not bad, but he wanted to see if I’d gained soldier stamina as well as knowledge.” She could hear the smirk in his voice.

“Not really needing that visual Xan.” She answered with a laugh.

“You love it, you can’t hide the truth from me, I’m like your best friend. You so think about it.” He retorted, laughing himself.

She laughed again. “Trust me, I don’t. Well, okay, now I do and it’s a scary image.”

“Where are you two? Bastian’s started cooking again.”

“Ah, Kennedy isn’t here, she’s taken the Slayer down to London. She may not be back ‘til late or even tomorrow.”

“Oh, okay. You going to head back here then? We could eat then grab a film?” He asked.

She smiled, that was her Xander, she was alone and so he dropped any plans to spend time with her. He truly is my best friend, she thought. “I would, but I’m not sure where I am to get there from.” She admitted. “I’m in a park, sat by a fountain.”

She frowned when Xander didn’t respond. “Xander? Is everything okay?”

“Huh? Oh yeah, fine Will. Are there four benches around the fountain?” He asked. She frowned again, he sounded distracted all of a sudden.

“Yeah. I bet it’s really pretty here during the day.” She answered his question, wondering what was bothering him.

“I know it, stay where you are Will and I’ll come meet you. See if we can find a vampire on the way home for me to test my new old skills on.” He said. She heard some rustling over the line and then the sound of a whispered conversation and a door closing. “On my way, won’t be long. See you soon Wills.”

“Yeah, see you soon Xan.” She hung up, still frowning. *Well, that was odd. I wonder what’s up with him all of a sudden?* She leant back and closed her eyes, calming her mind and attempting a basic sensory spell. She opened her eyes and the world around her was different, like a sepia tinted photograph. Bright splashes of colour moved around in her vision, each representing a creature or person. Not even solid walls could hide something from this spell. To the left she saw a fox, hiding deep inside a bush, out of normal sight. Two lovers in the middle of that copse of trees. She blushed, closing her eyes and ending the spell. She wasn’t a voyeur.

She heard footsteps and turned her head to see Xander moving towards her. Smiling, she stood up and hugged him. “Hey you. Glad it worked out.”

“Yeah, me too. You were right, he was annoyed, worried and all that. But it’s okay, we’re cool now.” He glanced at the bench and breathed a sigh of relief. Looking up and stared into green eyes and took a deep breath. “Will, I didn’t run here just to fetch you for dinner.”

“I kinda worked that one out. What is it? Is something wrong?” Her voice carried a hint of the concern she felt.

“What? Oh no, nothing’s wrong. It’s just something you need to see and, well, I’m glad you didn’t stumble on it by yourself.”

“Xander, what’s wrong? You’re worrying me.” She asked, her voice highlighting her confusion.

Instead of answering immediately, Xander led her back to the bench and sat with her, holding her hand tight. “Will, when I went to the magic shop to get the stuff for my spell, I started chatting with the girl who works there. When she found out where I was from and that you were my friend, she told me to look at something here. To be honest, I didn’t pay much attention to what she said, it was too vague and confusing. But I started walking and just ended up here, like I was supposed to find this place.”

Willow blinked. “I just ended up here too Xan, I don’t even know how I got here. I was walking and...”

“You were here?” He asked, his voice barely a whisper.

“Yeah.” She nodded in understanding.

“I think I know what drew us both here Will.” Without another word he stood and gently pulled the witch to her feet. Slowly, he guided her round the water feature to stand before another bench, he stopped and simply stared.

“Xan? What’s up? What’s so...” Her voice broke off as she followed his gaze and read the small bronze plaque. Her face paled and she staggered slightly, grasping his arm for support. Confusion, the pain of loss and joy at the discovery all played across her features, the emotions raw and unfiltered. “W-who?”

“She told me that she had friends across the world.” He answered, his voice soft and respectful.

A tear slid down Willows cheek as she reached out and brushed the plaque with a finger. “She touched so many souls Xander, I’m so lucky to have known her love.” The single tear turned into a flood and Xander wrapped the tiny form of his friend in a fierce, loving embrace, stroking her hair and whispering soothing nothings in her ear.

Eventually, Willow pulled back slightly and turned her tear stained face up to his. “I miss her so much Xander. I truly love Kennedy, Xan, but...” she lowered her head to his shoulder and began to sob again.

Returning to his hair stroking, Xander held her tight and whispered to her “I know, Will. I know.”

In the darkness of the park, a solitary dark haired figure turned and walked into the night, a single tear rolling down her cheek, the flowers in her hand falling to the ground.




Buffy sat perched on a tree branch, watching Dawn in the park below battle a newbie vampire. For three nights now they had played this game, sending Dawn out to hunt as they shadowed her and for three nights they had met with failure. Three nights of increasing frustration that had Buffy practically beside herself, itching to do something. But she had to wait, the trap was the only way they had of getting the information they so desperately needed. She had phoned Giles two days earlier and he had come up with no more information than the circumstantial evidence they had found themselves.

Buffy exhaled, a near silent sigh lost in the rustle of leaves blowing in a light wind. *Boy, these guys sure are shy for vampires* she thought to herself. Her head snapped around, “Uh-oh, famous last thoughts.” She muttered.

Across the park, a half dozen vampires, some clad in ancient armor, were moving with great stealth towards Dawn and the vampire she was fighting far less effectively than she normally would, all part of the deception they had set up, an inexperienced Slayer acting on instinct.

Tension coursing through her, Buffy waited for the moment. Dawn was drawing the fight back towards her and Satsus’ hiding positions, leading the newbie vampire into the trap, along with the unsuspecting vampires stalking her. When they were all close enough, Dawn turned the fight up a notch, dominating the battle and swiftly dispatching the vampire before her. Turning to face the sounds of movement behind her, she began to back away from the six more that had fanned out there.

“Oh. Hey guys. H-he wasn’t, umm, a friend of yours, was he?” She let her voice shake slightly and Buffy had to smile, she was a good actress. *Willow would be so proud. If she wouldn’t be scolding me for putting her in mortal peril* The thought flitted through Buffys’ mind and she smiled again. 

Finally, the time had arrived, the advancing vampires having moved past her and Satsu. They were trapped between three Slayers now. Glancing over at the next tree, she raised a hand, extending three fingers. Satsu nodded her understanding. For the surprise to work, they had to go in unison. Two fingers. She tensed her legs. One finger. She flexed her grip on the Scythe. No fingers.

Pushing upright, Buffy stepped from the branch she had been perched on. Landing softly, she called out to the vampires. “Six against one, isn’t that a little bit unfair? I mean, she’s only one girl. Satsu?” Whirling, the vampires stared in shock at the two additional Slayers that had appeared behind them.

“Oh yeah, unfair it is.” The Asian Slayer answered, smiling grimly. “Three Slayers, six vampires? Why don’t you guys just stake yourselves and save us the trouble.”

“That would suit me.” Buffy added, raising a hand to examine her fingers. “I just had these nails done today.”

“Enough!” One of the armor clad vampires roared at them. “You will all die or join us!”

Satsu sighed and looked at Buffy. “Are they all going to be this melodramatic?”

“They usually are. Sorry.” The blonde Slayer looked apologetic and shrugged.

“Not your fault. Do you think dying makes people arrogant like that?” She asked, dropping into a fighting pose, her Katana raised and ready.

Buffy smiled. “I’ve never had any complaints and I’m on my third round.”

The vampires were staring now, taken aback by the banter. One by one, they looked to the one who had spoken before. He shrugged and gestured, three of the vampires immediately charged the new arrivals. Jumping up, Buffy kicked two of them in the face, flipping herself. As she landed, she thrust the Scythe forward, dusting the third one in an instant.

Tumbling through the air, one of the vampires she had kicked landed at Satsus’ feet, who dodged to the left to avoid his roll. Lashing out, she knocked his legs from under him as he tried to stand, slamming a stake home.

Pulling back from her first strike, Buffy flipped the Scythe in her hand and swung it an arc that separated the vampires head from its shoulders in a shower of dust.

“Anyone else? Or are you guys just going to give up now and save us all of two minutes exercise?” Buffy asked, her tone acerbic.

The lead vampire flexed its shoulders and rotated its neck, working out some kink or other. Reaching to his side, he drew a sword. Satsu whistled in appreciation. “Is that a genuine Gladius or just a modern reproduction?”

Facing her, the vampire smiled. “Ah, one who appreciates the finer instruments of death. It has been by my side since I was turned. It has dispatched seven of your kind over the millennia. Soon it will be eight.” He advanced on her, flexing his grip and rocking on his feet, preparing to strike. The two remaining vampires advanced on Buffy, their attention completely focused on the threat before them, ignoring the ‘newbie’ Slayer at their backs. Until one of them disintegrated, the stake in Dawn’s hand. Whirling as the sound of sword meeting sword rang out, the vampire between Buffy and Dawn flashed its head back and forth, looking from one to the other.

Satsu twirled, dodging a thrust of the vampires sword and bringing her own blade around. At the last moment, he blocked her strike with his own weapon, the impact ringing out again. Spinning away, Satsu brought her sword back to the ready position, circling her opponent. With lightning fast reflexes, she struck out, but he blocked her again. Once more they moved apart, circling one another. He rushed in, thrusting for her chest and she deflected the blow, circling away.

“You dance well for a mortal.” He taunted her, dancing from foot to foot.

“You’re not so bad yourself, although after a thousand years of practice I would’ve thought you’d really be better than this.” She taunted him back.

He threw his head back and laughed, fangs glinting in the moonlight. “Oh, you’ve got spirit girl, I’ll give you that. I can’t wait to have you fight beside me

“Guess what else I’ve got...” Satsu’s free hand snaked behind her back and she unsheathed a second sword, her Wakizashi, slightly shorter than the Katana she usually favoured. She smiled as she adopted a new combat pose. “Two swords.”

She moved in with preternatural speed, the twin blades flashing in the darkness. His sword flashed out, blocking one with a ringing blow that jarred up Satsu’s arm and his free hand knocked the second aside. He laughed “You really think two swords are going to stop me when one wou...” He doubled over in pain as Satsu’s foot connected with his groin, his sword clattering to the floor. She spun away from him, her blades making faint whistling sounds in the quiet night. The last vampire stopped struggling against Buffy and Dawn as he saw his leaders head crumble to ash before it reached the ground.

Satsu smiled again “Oh, I’m sure they’ll help.” She addressed the dissipating cloud of ash. Sheathing her weapons, she turned back to Buffy and Dawn who were manhandling the last vampire to a standing position, his hands tied behind his back. Her smile transformed into a grin. “I’d say that went well.”

Buffy smiled, jerking the struggling vampires head back. “Look, behave or I start removing body parts. You know Satsu, I’m thinking you enjoyed that.”

The Asian Slayer winked at Buffy. “It didn’t exactly suck. That wasn’t fighting Buffy, it was dancing.”

“Dancing?” The elder Slayer asked, dragging the bound vampire with her as they crossed the park, heading towards the woods that ran along one edge.

“Yeah.” Satsu enthused, smiling again. “It’s like a ballet, every move rehearsed, every parry and block practiced until it’s instinct. I could do that for hours with you, at full Slayer speed and pull every blow closer than you’d dream.”

Buffy smiled. “You dream of dancing with me for hours?”

Lost in the darkness, Satsu blushed. She struggled for something, anything, to say. She let out a silent sigh as Dawn jumped in. *I SO have to thank her at some point* she thought.

“Hey, that kind of practice would be handy if that demon lord of the dance guy ever pops up again.” Dawn said with laughter in her voice. Glancing over at Satsu, she offered the other Slayer a reassuring smile. She smiled back and Dawns’ stomach did a little flip. *She’s so cute when she smiles* Dawn thought to herself. *Oh gods. Did I just? I can’t be crushing on the girl who’s crushing on my sister! That’s just... too damn weird.* Snapping clear from her thoughts, she looked around and noticed they’d reached the shade of the small band of trees.

“Dawn?”

“I’m here Buffy.” She answered.

“You ready with that sound-dampening spell? We really don’t want anyone interrupting this.” She asked, flinging the vampire up against a tree.

“Sure thing.” She rummaged in her jacket pocket, pulling out a sheet of crumpled paper. Flattening it as best she could, she began reading the Latin aloud. Pulling something from her other pocket, her voice raised in pitch until she practically shouted the final words and threw the powder she was holding into the air. There was a small flash of light and she smiled. “Jobs done. Anyone more than three meters from us won’t hear a thing.”

“Good. That’s good. Now, lets see what our new friend here knows.” She pulled a short knife from her belt and crouched down, pressing her face close to the vampires. “So, how we going to do this? We’ve got days, but you.” She glanced at her watch and smiled at the vampire. “You’ve got hours. You can either suffer lots or suffer not lots. Choice is all yours.”




“It’s perfect.” Xander whispered as the agent guided them through the house, the young woman clearly taking pride in her sales pitch. “Almost too perfect. Say, it’s not haunted, is it?” He looked around the bare living room which faced west for the sunset. “I’m thinking a contrasting colour on the back wall, would make a great display area, maybe mount some of the fancier weapons there. And did you see the bedroom? Did I mention that it’s perfect?”

Bastian grinned. “I’m going to take a wild stab here and say you like the place.”

“And there’s also three bedrooms, so two charming boys like yourselves will have plenty of room for entertaining.” The saleswoman continued her pitch, flashing Xander a charming smile and winking as she did so. He wasn’t sure, but he seemed to recall her blouse being more securely fastened earlier, there definitely seemed to be more flesh on show now.

Politely he returned her smile and reached out, laying a hand on Bastians’ arm. “Well, two guest bedrooms will come in handy.” He smiled internally at the flicker of recognition in her eyes. To her credit, she overcame her surprise in a heartbeat and smiled graciously.

Bastian smiled himself. “We’d like to make an offer.”

If anything the young womans’ smile broadened. “Of course Mr Childe, if you come with me into the kitchen we can fill in some paperwork whilst your partner continues to look around.”

“Sure.” He turned to Xander. “You look around some more, soldier boy. I’ll wrestle with the paperwork.”



Xander threw a few shirts into his case and then rummaged under the bed, pulling out a small axe. “Ah, that’s where that got to, thought I’d lost it.” He casually tossed the axe in with his clothes before glancing back at the witch. “Have you heard anything from Kennedy?”

Willow sighed, and picked up a photograph of the two men standing side by side next to a pool and smiling at the camera. “Not yet. I tried her cell phone, but it’s turned off.”

“You don’t seem too worried though.” His comment could have been caustic, but Willow knew that it wasn’t intended that way. She turned and passed him the photograph.

“I’m not, not yet. She’s a Slayer, she probably just got wind of some vampires on her way back. We’ve been out of touch for longer before.” Willow answered honestly. She picked up a second photograph, this one of Xander and herself at the Bronze with Buffy laid across their laps, all three smiling and laughing. She smiled at the memory and traced a finger over the image. “Last night, I never thanked you. You’re a great listener.”

“You don’t need to thank me Wills.” He joined her, looking down at the picture in her hands. He smiled, reaching out to caress the memory it represented. “I remember this being taken. It was your twenty-first birthday.”

“Yeah, one of the few Scooby birthdays not punctuated by an impending apocalypse.” A wistful expression ghosted over her features. “Good times.” She added softly, passing the photograph to him so he could pack it away. “You know, when you two have settled in we should get Buffy and Dawn over for a house-warming party. No demons invited.” She said, beaming with the last sentence.

Sitting on the side of the bed, she watched as Xander packed up the last of his clothes. Truthfully he didn’t have much to pack. None of them did, they had all led somewhat nomadic lives since the destruction of Sunnydale. *I need a place to call home* she thought to herself. *It’s just so... I need a home. I think me and Kennedy need to chat when she gets back*

“Will?” He called out to her closing the suitcase, that had so far acted as his home, with a click. “What’s wrong? You seem distracted.”

“Oh, nothing. Just thinking, maybe it’s time I looked for a house too, someplace Kennedy and I can hang up our stakes at the end of the night.” She pushed off the bed and followed Xander from the bedroom as he dragged his suitcase out and left it by the front door.

“Have you ever thought of going back?” He asked her, his voice low. “You’ve still got family, your parents fled before Sunnydale went down. You could find them.”

Willow looked awkward. “I wanted to, when we’d just arrived in England. We tracked them down through relatives. We’ve spoken and to be honest I’m not so sure it would be a good idea to go there yet. Plus they’ve never exactly been attentive parents, you know that. I think that, so long as they know I’m alive, they aren’t too bothered where I am.” Her voice had become bitter as she spoke about them. “A phone call once every month and the odd letter seems to be enough for them. What about you?”

“I managed to track down Uncle Rory, he says everyone got out. Can’t say as I’m enormously bothered about a reunion myself, since they usually end up with me in a sleeping bag on the lawn, playing triple-x connect the dots with stars to pass the time between drunken brawls.” He led them back into the kitchen and grabbed them both sodas’ from the fridge before lowering himself onto the couch, staring out at the view.

Willow sat beside him, making a content noise as she relaxed and sipped at her drink. “Triple-x connect the dots?” She inquired.

“Yeah, you know. Make up new constellations because I didn’t know any of the real ones. Like a giant pair of...” His voice trailed off and Willow laughed.

“Me and Tara used to do that.” Absently, she toyed with the ring-pull. “Only without the triple-x.” She clarified, her face going red as a deep blush crept over her features. Xander was forced to hide his smile by drinking from his soda. He had the feeling Willow wouldn’t take his normal reaction too well.




“And you’re certain of this Buffy?” She could hear concern in the voice of the head of the renewed Watchers Council. There had been some resistance from the remaining ‘old schoolers’, but Giles had swept it away in a rather uncharacteristic display of force. He had stood there and brazenly informed them that those who clung to the old ways were no longer needed. The old ways had proven effective in the old world, but they faced new and unique challenges ahead. Ones which that old, outdated system simply was not equipped to handle. And then there was the morality issue - the Council had viewed the Slayer as a tool and not a person, an outlook which had doubtless cost many Slayers their lives far sooner than they should have. Those days were gone, he had informed them. The Council was not here to use the Slayers, but to support them.

“Well, my source was, before he asked to have a good close look at the Scythe.”
 
“I must say, this is a most alarming turn of events. I’ve never heard of a vampire this old before. If he really was an Emperor of Rome, then he is potentially over two thousand years old. I think the words ‘be careful’ are a tad pointless.”

“I’d still...”

“Be careful Buffy. I’ll have Faith and the others with you as soon as possible, but it may take a day or so to gather them.”

“Thanks Giles.”

“Now, the details your...” She smiled as he cleared his throat on the other end of the line. “Your informant provided. You say this Emperor is seeking great warriors to fight in gladiatorial games for his entertainment?”

“Yep, that’s the sitch.” 

“Well, at least we know why he’s had his followers targeting Slayers: they are, after all, great warriors. You need to redouble your efforts to contact Slayers in the area, they are at terrible risk. But, you should lay low until the others arrive and move to a new location as well, they’ll be hunting you now.” He paused, thinking. “I’ll wire you some funds and you should use the second identity I provided.”

“Gee Giles, contradictory much? Increase our efforts to track down new Slayers but lay low at the same time?”

“I have every confidence in your ability to manage both Buffy. Faith, Lou and the others should be with you sometime tomorrow, all being well. She’ll contact you when they arrive.” He reassured her.

“Anyone else coming? Sebastian and Xander?” She asked, spinning a stake in her free hand.

“I’ll contact them, see if they can reach you.” He answered her.

“What’s the delay, I would’ve thought that they’d hightail it over here.”

“Bastian and Xander have just purchased a house, they’re in the process of moving as we speak.” Buffys’ eyes widened as she took in his news, Dawn mouthing ‘What? What?!’ repeatedly at her. Waving a hand and mouthing ‘later’, Buffy returned her attention to the phone.

“Really? That’s great! Don’t tell them, but when I’m done with this Emperor nonsense I’m coming over to get them a house-warming gift. Do you think they’d like an axe? Is an axe clichéd?”

“I think a toaster or something similar would be more appropriate. But, as always, you will doubtless disagree. I’m sure you’ll think of something suitable.” He offered, she could hear the barely suppressed smile contained in his words.



Xander dropped his case by the bedroom door and smiled, realising that this was all his now. Theirs, all theirs, he mentally corrected himself. He couldn’t believe how quickly the sale had gone through - clearly the Council had a lot more influence than he expected. Less than seven hours had passed since they had made their offer and it had been accepted. Bastian had called in some favours and the decorators would be arriving in the morning. The day after that the living room furniture would arrive.

Turning, he made to move his case into the bedroom when his cell phone rang. Pulling it from his pocket, he glanced at the incoming caller ID before answering. “Hi Giles, what’s up?”

“Ah. Xander. Good to hear you too. How are you getting along with the moving?” The Watcher asked politely.

“Fine. I managed to move my suitcase the whole two miles from the holiday cottage to our house between your phone calls.” He answered with a laugh. “What’s the sitch? I’m guessing something needs our specialist attention?”

“Straight to the point I see.”

“Well, I am kind of busy Giles. We’ve got decorators coming tomorrow, furniture the day after that. Our bed still needs building and I’ve just realised we’ve not got any cutlery so it’s finger food for dinner.” He allowed the smallest hint of frustration to enter his voice.

Giles decided subtle wasn’t going to cut it. Biting the bullet, he got straight to the point. “I need you and Bastian to go to Rome. Buffy has uncovered a situation that requires the attention of as many experienced Slayers and warriors as we can muster.”

“Woah there Giles, slow down. In fact, come to a screeching halt. What situation? And can I just remind you, decorators tomorrow morning.”

He heard the older man sigh. “I appreciate you have commitments Xander, but this is critical. I told Buffy I would try to get you to join her by the end of tomorrow. That should give you time to supervise your decorator. Perhaps there is a friend who could watch the house for you the day after?”

“Alright, I’ll speak to Bastian. What’s got Buffy circling the wagons anyway?”

“A vampire.” Giles answered simply.

“A vampire? That’s it?” Xander asked, his tone incredulous and a frown crossing his features. “No wait, we’ve played this game before. It’s never just that. There’s more, isn’t there?” He crossed the bare living room and leant by the window, looking out at the view.

“As usual, you manage to sum up extremely complex situations in a remarkably simplistic manner.” The tart response made Xander smile again.

“Yeah, yeah. Come on G-man, spill. What’s happening?” Xander asked. Ten minutes later, he was sat with his back to the wall, a shocked expression on his face. Pushing to his feet, he wandered to the kitchen and poured himself a glass of water. “A Roman Emperor?” He asked again. “Like Joaquin Phoenix in Gladiator?”

“Hardly. Although, then again, the odds are that he’s quite insane if he has lived that long. Indeed, his motivation seems boredom rather than a will to destroy.” Giles’ voice was steady and thoughtful.

“Wait a minute. You actually understood a pop-culture reference?” Xander had to check, he had to make sure he wasn’t imagining things.

He heard Giles snort derisively. “Of course I’ve seen Gladiator, Xander. It may be a work of fiction, but the physical imagery is breathtaking. I always wanted to see the Colosseum in all its glory.” The Watchers voice had taken on a distinct dreamy quality. “It must have been a truly magnificent site.”

“Giles?” The prompt brought the Watcher back to reality.

Xander heard the other man clear his throat. “Ah, well, anyway. There is every possibility this vampire may not be what we would consider sane. Existing for that long must surely do unusual things to a mind.”

“You said he’s doing this for fun? Not ‘end the world’ fun, just plain old I’m bored, I want some jollies fun?”

“That appears to be the general opinion of Buffy’s ‘source’, yes.” 

“Okay Giles, if Buffy needs us, we’ll be there. I’ll chat to Bastian and call you back to arrange the flights.” Xander conceded, knowing he could never leave Buffy to face something like this alone.

“Very good. I have to go, there’s a lot to be arranged, Faith is travelling to Rome tomorrow, along with Lou and her team.” The Watcher paused for a moment, apparently thinking. “One more thing, are Willow and Kennedy still with you?”

“Willow is.” Xander informed the Watcher. “Kennedy hasn’t returned yet. At least, she hadn’t when I spoke to Will about an hour ago.”

“Hmm, well, I’m sure she’ll turn up soon. Could you ask Willow if she would mind offering some mystical support?”

Xander hid a smile, even though he knew the other man wouldn’t see it even if he did. Like he really needed to ask Willow to assist, it would take something major - *like Tara returning* he thought – to keep Willow from this battle, hell any battle, if Buffy needed her there. Rather than state this, he simply assured Giles that he would ask. Thanking each other, the young man hung up and ran a hand through his dark hair, sighing. He glanced down at the phone in his hand. Pressing the speed dial, he had to wait only a moment before it was picked up.

“Hi Xander. You unpacked already?”

“Hey there Will. Not yet. I just had a very interesting conversation with Giles. Seems something has cropped up in Rome that needs the full might of the Scooby gang throwing against it. Bastian and I will probably be flying out tomorrow evening.” As he spoke to the witch, he dragged his case into the bedroom and left it in a corner. He stared at the boxes that held the as yet unassembled bed. Turning, he left the bedroom *Now, where did I place that toolbox?* He asked himself.

“Rome? What’s happened?” The witch’s voice was filled with concern and worry, both Buffy and Dawn were in Rome.

“Nothing to our girls, but a few of the local Slayers have been attacked. Looks like some really old vampire is causing some fun.” He quickly explained the basics of the situation, recognising that Willow was swiftly approaching the land of panic. When he was finished, he decided to add one final clarifying comment “Basically, he wants to find the strongest warriors to compete in gladiatorial combat for his amusement.”

“He what?” Willow asked, hardly able to believe what Xander was telling her.

“Yeah, seems he likes to watch this kind of stuff.”

“I’ll find Kennedy and we’ll meet up at your place later, discuss what we know. Bye Xan.” With a click she hung up.

“Yeah, see you later Wills.” He said to the silent phone.



Hanging up, Willow pressed a fast dial button and waited. Without ringing, the call went straight to answerphone. *Great* She closed her eyes for a moment *Not sure what’s holding you up Kennedy, but we’ve run out of time. Sorry about this.* Concentrating, she pictured the dark haired Slayer.

*Kennedy? You there sweetie?*

*Willow? I thought we’d agreed that you wouldn’t dial my brain like this?*

*Well, I tried your cell phone, but it’s switched off.*

When Kennedy responded, Willow could feel the frustration in her mental voice. *Maybe that should tell you I need me time?*

*What’s wrong, did something happen in London?* Willow asked, letting her concern fill her mind voice.

*No, nothing like that. Sorry, I shouldn’t have snapped.* The Slayer apologised. *What’s wrong, why are you here? You know this mind to mind stuff freaks me out.*

*When will you be back? Xander just had a call from Giles, Buffy needs everyone we can muster in Rome as soon as possible. Some big bad needs squishing.*

*I’m on the train now. I’ll be there in an hour or so.* The Slayer told her.

*Okay, I’ll see you soon. Love you.*

*Love you too Red.*

Willow ended the connection and leaned back in the leather armchair, lost in thought. She loved Kennedy, but what she had confided in Xander the night before was true, it simply wasn’t the same as what she felt for Tara. But then again, would anything ever be? And Tara had told Xander that she liked Kennedy, that she, Willow, needed company. They would be together again eventually, of that she was certain. And Kennedy was a loving, honest person who would happily share her life with Willow. *I just don’t know if it’s fair to do that to her, I can’t offer her what she’s offering me. I love her, but my soul belongs to Tara and always will.* An unshed tear glistened in her eye, this was something she was going to have to talk to Kennedy about and that was not going to be a pleasant conversation.


Kennedy stood across the street from the cottage, staring in silence. She’d been sat here for forty minutes now. She had to go in and face Willow, not a situation she was looking forward to. Willow didn’t know that she’d overheard her and Xander in the park the night before and she wasn’t at all sure she could pretend that she hadn’t heard the things she had. Not that they had come as a complete surprise. She knew Willow loved her, just not as she loved Tara. She’d always known, she admitted that to herself now. Willow still cared for her, she was too honest a person to be able to pretend something like that. It was just she, Kennedy, could never be Tara.

She let out a distressed sigh and leant against the stone wall. Tara must have been one hell of a woman, she thought to herself. *I wish I could meet her, just once* she thought. Screwing up her courage, she pushed away from the wall and walked towards the cottage.


Willow didn’t get up when the door opened and closed. Reaching out, she picked up her glass of water and sipped it. She heard Kennedy drop her bag and then move into the living room. She summoned a smile and looked up. Much to her surprise, it was a genuine smile. She had missed the young Slayer, because she did care for her. And she couldn’t hide that, not even from herself.

Kennedy looked at the smile and her heart broke. She could see it all in that instant. Willow loved her, but she wasn’t In Love with her. But she cared too much to say anything in case she hurt Kennedy. Part of Kennedy had desperately wanted to believe what she had heard were just words to appease Xander, but looking into that face she knew it was all completely true. If there was one thing Willow excelled at, it was wearing her heart on her sleeve. She couldn’t hide that if she tried.

Kennedy took a breath and stepped a little closer. “Hi Red. Miss me?”

“More than you know.” Willow answered. “You get tied up in London?”

Kennedy took another breath, sitting down on the sofa and staring down at her hands. She didn’t want to, but she had to address this now, so it wasn’t distracting her with whatever mission they were needed for. “No. I wasn’t in London Willow. I got back last night. I got here just as Xander left to find you. I followed him, I wanted to surprise you, I had flowers and chocolates.” She snorted. “Guess I got the surprise.”

Willow sat there staring. “Oh goddess, Kennedy. I didn’t mean...”

“Yeah, you did Willow. But I’m not angry, you never lied to me. I lied to myself. I knew all along that, even if you care for me, your heart and soul belongs to her.” She interrupted the witch, her voice firm but soft. “I didn’t hear anything last night I didn’t already know. All it did was make me face it, to stop hiding from myself.”

“I’m sorry Kennedy, I shouldn’t have...”

“You shouldn’t have what? Enriched my life? Willow, these past few months have been the most amazing, the most perfect of my life. I don’t regret any of it, except my own blindness. So don’t you.” She pushed herself from the sofa and crossed the living room, kneeling before the armchair Willow sat in. Reaching out, she took two small hands in her own, softly caressing the back of them. “You have made my life so, so much more vibrant. I can’t ever thank you for that. And know, I’ll always be here for you, as friends and more. So you’re not in love with me, you can’t change your heart Red. But you do love me, you’ve said that yourself. So, how about we just live as two people who love one another?”

A tear rolled down Willows’ cheek. “You’re very calm about this. Are you sure you’re okay with it?”

“Willow, the way I see it I’m one of the luckiest women alive just to have you in my life. How can I possibly begrudge another having your soul? Just you being in my life enriches it so, so much. I don’t want to lose that over some petty jealousy I could hold, especially when I would be being jealous of something you couldn’t influence. After all, love is blind.” Kennedy rocked on the balls of her feet, cradling Willows hands in her own. Reaching out, she brushed away Willows tears. “My life is so much more with you in it. I’m not going to leave, unless you ask me to.” Leaning in, she placed a soft kiss on her lovers lips and pulled back, waiting.

“Red? Willow?” She prompted, her voice low, barely above a whisper.

“You are so, so sweet. And I’m so sorry I can’t return your love in the same way.” The witch answered, her voice quiet, lost sounding. Reaching out, she ran a hand down the side of the Slayers face, caressing it tenderly. “Does it sound selfish to say I don’t want to be alone?” She asked, her voice barely audible.

“Not at all, just human.” She leant into the witch’s caress. “So why don’t we just say this - we’re both people who need company, who care for and love one-another, respect and trust each other. To me, those are the cornerstones of any strong relationship. What do you say?”

Blinking through her tears, Willow smiled. “I am so lucky to have someone in my life who is so understanding.”

Hugging the still crying witch, Kennedy held her lover tight. “We both are Red, we both are.” Pulling back, she brushed Willows hair back, looking into the elder woman’s eyes. “Okay, now that the dangerous stuff is out of the way, why don’t we talk about why you had to dial my brain earlier.”

Wiping her eyes, Willow looked at Kennedy. *I truly am lucky* She thought to herself. *A lot of people would have gone nutso over a revelation like that* Her mind still racing, she took one of Kennedy’s hands in both of hers. “So, how do you feel about a trip to Rome? Buffy needs help squishing a vampire who saw the fall of the Roman Empire.”

“She what? Woah, that’s old, isn’t it? I mean, I never paid that much attention in history. Well, not to the lessons anyway, the teacher was a total babe, I had this mega-sized crush on her.” She offered Willow a wink and cheeky smile, making the redhead laugh.

“You, Little Miss Slayer, are far too easily distracted. And yes, that’s old. As in two thousand years, give or take a century or three, we’re not too sure how old he really is. We’re all meeting up at…” She paused for a moment, realising Kennedy was out of the loop. “Hey, I haven’t had chance to tell you. With a little help from Giles and the Council Xander and Bastian have their own house now. I said we’d head over there and meet up with them to discuss what we’re going to do.”

Kennedy laughed, squishing herself into the armchair with Willow. “And I bet we’ll just be in time to help move something heavy as well. Say, does this mean we have to find a hotel for tonight?”

Snuggling into the warm body pressed tight against her, Willow stroked the Slayers hair. “Nope, they were renting this place by the week, there’s still two days left. So we’ve got the whole place to ourselves tonight.”




Xander, Bastian and Willow stood just outside the terminal entrance at the airport, the two men holding overnight bags and airline tickets. It was a dull afternoon, with dark clouds in the distance. It was promising to be a hell of a storm later.

“You sure about this Will?” Xander asked the redhead again, clearly worried.

“We are. We’ll take that delivery for you tomorrow and then join the rest of you in Rome.” She reassured her best friend with a smile. “Besides, I have a couple of things to work out and I’m not going to able to do that surrounded by Goddess knows how many Slayers, all itching for a fight.” Gently, she turned him around and started to push him towards the entrance to the terminal. “Now go on, you two need to get on that plane, Willow-air can only carry one passenger at a time.”

Catching her off-guard, Xander shifted his weight and spun around, allowing Willows own momentum to propel her into his arms. Hugging her tight, he spun them both around before setting her back on the ground. “You take care Will. Don’t worry too much about arranging the furniture when it arrives, we’ll do that when we get home.” Hugging her again, he released her, reaching down for the bag he had dropped when he’d been playing. Standing up, he turned and walked into the terminal, beckoning Bastian to follow him.

Pulling the taller man into a quick hug, Willow whispered in Bastian’s ear. “Watch him, he has all that knowledge again, make sure he doesn’t go off on some hair-brained crusade and get himself hurt.”

“Always.” He whispered the single word. Breaking the embrace, he turned and dashed off to catch up with Xander. Once they were in line, they turned and waved to Willow. Returning the gesture, she waited for a few moments before turning away, returning to the taxi that had brought them to the airport.



Xander whistled as the taxi pulled up before a large villa. The storm clouds they had seen in England were replaced by a clear blue summer sky. His eyes took in the splendour of the building, seeming to glow in the sunlight, as Buffy led Bastian and himself up the stone steps and through arches which supported an overhanging balcony. Opening the front door she gestured them inside with a smile. “Welcome to the casa-del-Slayer. We even have a pool out back.”

“This place is amazing Buff.” Xander said, taking in the sumptuous surroundings, high arched doorways, cream and pale yellows on the walls. An intricate chandelier hung in the main entrance hall.

The Blonde Slayer chuckled. “It is kind of incredible, isn’t it? We’ve got a lot of Slayers teaming up for this operation, so we had to get somewhere with a ton of rooms. Sadly, lots of rooms also seems to equal insanely over the top décor.”

“Dawn’s loving it, isn’t she?” He asked, giving the blonde a sideways glance.

“She’s in teen decadence heaven.” Buffy confirmed. “Yesterday I found her dashing from room to room, bouncing on each bed. She may be nearly eighteen but sometimes you’d think there was a decade shaved off that.”

 “Oh come off it Buff, even you’ve got to say that idea is kind of appealing.” He shot straight back, being rewarded with another of the Slayers dazzling smiles.

“Well, yeah. But don’t tell her I admitted that. Come on, Faith is out back with Lou and her girls.” She led the way through the main entrance, down a short corridor and into a living room. Xander could hear laughter and splashing getting closer. Passing through open French doors at the back of the room they stepped out into a large courtyard with a pool occupying the centre.

Clad in a simple black bikini, Faith lay relaxing on a recliner by the pool, shades hiding her eyes. On another nearby recliner Lou straddled Serra, rubbing suntan lotion onto the taller woman’s back who was making soft sounds of pleasure. Rona and Tanya were tossing a ball in the pool. Turning her head, Faith lifted her shades and nodded in greeting. “Hey, if it ain’t my homo-boys.” She grinned at them whilst murdering the ghetto-slang she’d grown up with and hoped off the recliner to wander over to them. “How you guys doing?”

“Oh, you know, the usual. Battling evil, looking gorgeous.” Bastian answered, slipping his arm around Xander. “If someone had warned us, we could have brought our outfits. No, wait. We don’t have any outfits yet. We really need to go shopping, soldier-boy.” He paused, lost in thought. He gave Xander a sideways look and smirked, winking. “Hey, I know, we can skinny-dip. We’re all friends here.” His smirk transformed into a grin as several of the ladies present made noises of protest. He almost choked holding in his laughter as Lou made gagging noises.

“Hey, I’m down with it.” Faith answered with a smile. “I might join you.”

By the pool, Lou looked up, smirking. “I think we might stay and watch that show, what do you reckon Ser?”

The blonde looked up, her desire evident by the look on her face. “Oh yeah, we could definitely welcome that view. Although I think we’d be better off with a touch test, just to make sure the reality matches the package.”

Faith blew the pair a kiss and wiggled her hips. “Keep on dreaming darlins’. ‘Fraid you two are missing a few parts that I really kinda enjoy.” Her tone was gentle, a laughing lilt to her voice.

“You’ll come around eventually. Nobody with a body like that is one hundred percent straight.” Lou teased. “Boys, don’t take this the wrong way, but could you keep your pants on while we’re here?”

Xander moved to a recliner, peeling his top off and tossing it aside. “We’ll take it under advisement. Don’t want to scare you before the big showdown. But after that, all bets are off.” He took another look around the pool area, noticing that at least one person was missing. Turning his head, he addressed Buffy. “Say, where’s the Dawnmeister?”

“Oh, she and Satsu went out earlier, those two are really bonding. Guess the whole miss junior Slayer thing has given them common ground. Oh, just so you know, we had to cut Dawn’s...” She was cut off as one eager Slayer came sprinting into the courtyard, followed at a more sedate pace by the Asian Slayer.

“Hey guys, we found this amazing little... Xander!” She broke off in mid-sentence, shouting his name as she rushed towards him. He had barely turned around when the Slayer barrelled into him and they both toppled into the pool. Lou and Serra cried out as water sprayed over them. Coughing and spluttering Dawn and Xander surfaced.

“Dawn! That was bracing.” Xander exclaimed, shaking his head. “Hey, what happened to your hair?”


“So, what’s your plan Buff?” Xander and the Blonde Slayer were lounging by the pool a short while later, watching the others throwing the ball back and forth.

“Well, I was chatting with Faith and Satsu earlier. We know what they’re up to and where, but not when. So, we’re going to go out and jump as many vampires tonight as we have to until one of his minions shows up.” She looked at him, her expression saying that she really, really liked the sound of the plan. *Probably tired of being cooped up, unable to hunt properly* He thought. “Then we beat the stuffing out of said minion and send him running with a message for his Emperor.”

“Sounds good to me. What message we giving them?” He leant over, attentive. This would be his first chance to show Buffy he wasn’t as useless as he had been.

“Oh, you know, the usual. Tomorrow night, midnight. Be there or be known as a cowardly yellow belly. If what we’re hearing of this guy is true, he won’t be able to turn down a challenge like that, he just loves the spectacle.” Buffy answered.

“Not exactly the Declaration of Independence, but catchy nonetheless.” He offered her a warm, reassuring smile. “It’s a good plan though, I like it. Especially the kicking of vampire ass part. Count us in. Just one question.”

“So long as you don’t ask for Andrew to join us, you can ask anything.”

“Where are we luring him to?” He laid the simple question out, the one thing she had so far missed.

“Oh yeah, I didn’t tell you. According to our source, he uses the Colosseum. Seems he’s an old fashioned kinda guy.”

“That old heap?” Buffy simply nodded confirmation. “I’ve seen postcards, it looks like The Magic Box after Willow was done redecorating. How’s that work? I mean, even I, god of the sweaty builders trade that I am, would need more than a few hammers and nails to patch it up.”

“Yeah, we reckon they must have some kind of mojo going on. We’ll find out tomorrow.” She shrugged nonchalantly, turning to watch Dawn in the pool.

“A little blasé there, aren’t we Buff? That’s got to be some seriously major mojo the guy’s having thrown around.” She turned back to him, drawn by the concern in his voice. “Which means, we should wait until Willow arrives.”

“We haven’t got time Xan, this guy’s building his forces. He might want the jollies, but there’s something more going on here as well, I can feel it.” She rubbed her arms as though cold, even though the sun was still high. “Tonight we hunt, tomorrow we go to war.”

“Oh joy, another war.” He sighed. “You’d have thought that, after having saved the world, we’d get some time off.” With a soft thump, the ball landed beside them. Picking it up, he casually threw it back into the pool before looking back to the blonde Slayer. “You know Buffy, if we’re going to war we really need a plan. ‘First rank - Fire!’ just isn’t going to cut it.”

Buffy gave him a mock glare, the amusement in her face evident despite the expression. “You know me, I always considered ‘lets get out there and twat it’ a sound plan.”

“Twat it?” He asked, raising an eyebrow.

Buffy laughed. “We’ve been watching a lot of TV recently, what with the keeping a low profile. I’ve now seen the first five seasons of Red Dwarf.”

Xander whistled in admiration, adjusting his sunglasses so he could give the Slayer a mocking look. “Andrew is going to be so jealous of you.”

“Tell the little twit and you’ll be getting to know Mr Pointy very well.” She warned him, her voice light with mischief and humour. “So, you got a plan? Or you just quizzing me for laughs?”

Laughing, Xander held up his hands. “My lips are sealed. Promise.” Leaning closer, he lowered his voice a little. “Yeah, I’ve got a plan Buff. Want to hear it? I mean, it’s not as succinct as ‘twat it’, but it does involves lots of violence.”

“Oooh, violence. I’m liking this plan already.” The Slayer quipped.

Dawn turned in the pool, spotting Buffy and Xander deep in conversation by the pool side. She started to wade over to the pool edge, intending on joining them. Someone called out her name and she turned back only to receive a face full of water. Spluttering, she wiped her face and glared at the laughing Slayer.

“Satsu! Oh, you are so going to pay for that!” Her threat was somewhat negated by her voice, shaking with laughter. Flicking water back at the other Slayer, she dove forward, pushing them both under the surface. Laughing, the pair surfaced, Dawn still holding the other Slayer close. Dawn’s eyes locked with those of the other Slayer, the dark eyes staring intently into her own. For just a moment, time seemed to slow but almost immediately the moment ended. With a laugh, she pushed the other woman back, causing her to stumble and submerge again.

As Satsu surfaced, she shook her head to clear some water. “Told ya! Dawn laughed.

Beside the pool, Xander watched the pair’s antics. “Umm, Buff?” His voice held a hint of concern and curiosity.

“What’s up Xander?”

“I think you need to be having a chat with Dawn.” He said softly.

“Oh? Why, you think we shouldn’t bring her with on the attack?” She asked, clearly misunderstanding his tone.

“No, I mean the birds and the bees talk. Or, if the look I just saw her give Satsu is anything to go by, the birds and the birds talk.” He paused, considering something. “Okay, that sounded far more sexist than it was meant to.”

“Dawn? No, you’re mistaken Xand. Remember the vampire parking incident? Or the magic jacket?” Buffy quickly came back at him. “And that guy in her art class. Oh, what was his name?” She struggled to recall the young artists name. In the pool, Satsu lunged, dragging a giggling Dawn under the water.

“Buffy, trust me, I know that look. She might not be Willow gay, I mean she was eyeing the waiter when we went for that meal before you guys came out here, but there’s still something there, some attraction. You need to have a chat with her. You’re her big sis and the next best thing to a mom she has now.” Reaching out, he laid a hand on her arm, looking deep into her eyes. She flinched under the soft gaze. “She’ll talk to you, sure it might be a little awkward, but she knows you won’t throw her out just for liking another girl.”

“You’re sure she likes her?” Buffy asked, her voice soft and filled with concern about her little sister.

“That or she’s jealous of the hair.” He bobbed his head in amusement. “Speaking of which, what’s with the pink on the Dawnmeister?”

Spluttering as she surfaced again, Satsu pulled a face at Dawn, but inside her mind was racing *oh boy, what the hell was that? She’s Buffys kid sister, for crying out loud. And Buffy’s hot.* She splashed some more water back at Dawn, laughing. *But that was intense. And she looks really cute with her hair like that. Okay, where did that come from? Gah! Why are things never simple?*




With a clatter, Xander laid his axe on a table and collapsed into a chair, which groaned slightly under the sudden abuse. “Merciful Zeus, I don’t think we’ve ever taken out so many in one night. What was that? Twenty three?”

“Twenty eight is Satsu’s count. And hey, we sent three running home with our message, I think we may have made a point.” Buffy corrected him, laying the Scythe beside his axe and dropping onto a sofa, letting her arm flop off the edge. “I know Faith is big on that ‘hungry and horny’ thing after Slaying, but right now I just want to sleep.”

Xander laughed. “She’s going to be unbearable, you know? All that energy and no release.”

Buffy shrugged, an extremely odd looking gesture since she still lay on the sofa, one arm hanging off the side. “Hey, if she keeps it all pent-up she’ll be so full of energy tomorrow I’ll just be able to stand to one side and form a cheerleader squad with the other Slayers.” She jumped up and started throwing her body about in a series of contortions that Xander really wished he could manage. “F! A! I! T! H! Goooooo FAITH!”

The paired turned at the sound of laughter and saw the dark Slayer leaning in the doorway, a bloodied sword in her hand, watching Buffy’s antics with unbridled amusement. “Always knew you were a fan B. Needs some pom-poms though…”

“I thought I’d improvise, you know, axes or bottles of holy water. Something like that.” Buffy replied, dropping back onto the sofa with a sigh. “Xand, what do I say to Dawn?” She asked, returning to their pool side conversation. Silently, Faith moved over to an armchair, grabbing a cleaning cloth. Sitting down she began to clean the blade, trying to not intrude on the conversation.

“I’d say a long sisterly chat but it’s not really for me to tell you what to say Buffy. Just make sure she knows that you only want to see her happy and that, whoever it is that makes her happy, that is all that matters.” He leant back, sinking into his chair. “She’s an incredibly bright young woman Buff. Sure, she’ll always be your kid sister, just remember she’s not actually a kid anymore, she won’t appreciate that.”

Unable to sit by, Faith looked up. “Is the squirt crushing on someone?”

For a moment, Buffy looked like she was going to jump her fellow Slayer for interrupting a private conversation, but then the curiosity and concern in the other womans voice struck her. Concern for Dawn. Slowly, she bobbed her head. “Xander thinks so. I kinda missed it. But hey, what’s a surprise there? I missed the whole klepto thing, why shouldn’t I miss my little sis making googly eyes at Satsu?” Buffy’s voice was bitter, full of self-loathing.

Faith nearly choked. “She’s crushing on Satsu? Since when does the squirt dig chicks?”

Xander laughed at Faiths reaction. “You should have seen them in the pool earlier, the look in her eyes was intense. Pure attraction.” He turned his attention from one Slayer to the other. “Buffy, you’ve got to quit beating yourself up over missing so much. We all missed so much. Willows addiction, your depression after what we did…”

“You can say it Xander, we all know where I was. And I think we’re all going back there at some point.” Her voice was soft, forgiving.

Xander pushed out of his chair, moving to the sofa. Scooting the Slayers legs to one side, he joined her. “Point is Buff, we all failed to see a lot that year and you shouldn’t beat yourself up over it.”

“I’m her big sister, I should have noticed.” She repeated the point, her voice sad and her head drooping so she didn’t have to look at her friend.

“I think you’re allowed a get out of jail free card for that one Buff. You were going through something none of us can comprehend.” Xander said, reaching out and lifting the blonde Slayers chin so he could look her in the eyes. “You’ve got another chance here, don’t miss out on it.”

“Couldn’t you or Willow?” Buffy asked him, a tiny hint of desperation in her voice. “I really don’t want to have this kind of chat.”

“No Buff, you’re on your own on this one. You’re her big sister, you’re also her hero.” He gave her a lopsided smile. “So go be heroic.”



Buffy rapped on the large oak door. She stood in silence for a moment before trying again. Sighing she pushed the door open a crack. “Dawn?” She paused as she heard the shower shut off and moments later Dawn emerged from the ensuite wrapped in a towel.

“Oh. Hi, Buffy.” The younger woman said in greeting. “What’s up?” Silently Buffy closed the door and moved into the room, sitting on the edge of the bed.

“Say, why so serious?” Dawn tried again.

Buffy sighed. “I so wish mom was here. I don’t know how to handle this.”

“Handle what? Buffy, is everything okay?” Dawn inquired, joining the elder Summers sister on the bed.

“You know, this.” Buffy replied somewhat vaguely.

“No, I don’t know this. I don’t have a clue what this is.”

“This,” Buffy responded seriously. “Is The Chat. And I haven’t a clue how to proceed.”

“The Chat?” Dawn asked, confused. “Wait, you mean The Chat?”

“Yuh-huh. Dawn… you know I love you, yeah?”

Dawn laughed. “Of course you do, I’m not stupid. We might fight, but we still love each other.”

“Dawn, you can tell me anything, I won’t judge you.” She paused, gathering her thoughts. Taking a deep breath she asked the question. “Are you gay?”

Dawn stuttered, whatever words she was about to say lost in a cough.

“Xander saw you making eyes at Satsu earlier. Said it was kind of obvious to anyone, you know, paying attention. Which it seems once again, I wasn’t.”

Dawn took a deep breath, letting it push from her lips in a deep sigh. “Gods, I don’t know Buffy. I mean, I like guys. They have… lets say they have their appeal.” Buffy laughed lightly. “But Satsu is… well, she’s Satsu. And yeah, I like her. But it’s way complicated.”

“Oh? How so? I mean, you like her and I’m guessing she likes you too. And hey, she’s a vast improvement over parking with a vamp.” Buffy observed dryly.

“It’s complicated because I’m not the only one she’s attracted to. Plus, you’re never going to let me forget that, are you?” Dawn said quietly. “And I kinda worry that she sees me as a…”

“Substitute?” Buffy asked. Dawn nodded. “Dawnie, I know we’ve only just met Satsu. But that girl wears her heart, her very rainbow coloured heart, on her sleeve. If she likes you, it’s because of you. Not someone you remind her of. Also no, I’m not going to let you forget any time soon. Do you know how rare such dynamite ammo is to find?”

“You think?” Dawn’s question was whispered, ignoring the needling jibe.

Buffy smiled and nodded, patting Dawn’s leg. “Yeah. Yeah, I do.”

“And you won’t be disappointed if we end up together?” There was genuine concern in Dawn’s soft voice.

“Absolutely not. Hello, best friend is Little Miss Lesbian-Witch of the year.” The elder Slayer laughed lightly. “I mean, I was looking forward to being an eccentric aunty who regales her nephews and nieces with tales of the glory days when I battled hell Goddesses and best friends turned to ultimate evil on a weekly basis, but I think I’ll get over the disappointment so long as you’re happy.” She stood up, giving Dawns leg once last pat as she did so. “Now get dressed, we have a war waiting for us.”

Silently she left the room and walked down the corridor, smiling. “That wasn’t so tough.” She said to herself. “I can so do this mom stuff.”




“See. Big and ruin-y.” Buffy gestured towards the ancient structure looming before them in the darkness, the modern lighting creating eerie shadows in the recesses where once magnificent statues had stood sentinel, watching over the great city and its citizens.

Xander whistled in appreciation. “I should have brought my tools... and a bag of nails.”

“So, what now? How do we get in?” Dawn asked, craning her neck to look up at the great structure towering over them.

“Well,” Faith drawled. “I’m gonna take a guess and say door number one.” She gestured to the visitors’ entrance. The usual metal security fencing was gone, replaced by a faint glowing light around and within the arched doorway. Despite its relative paleness, the light stopped them from seeing through the doorway to the interior.

“Guess we’re going in blind.” Satsu commented, her voice flat. With a sound that seemed to echo in the darkness she drew her Katana. “Nothing like surprises to lighten up a dull night.”

“We all ready?” One by the assembled Slayers - Dawn, Satsu, Faith, Lou, Serra, Roan, Tanya and Sebastian - along with the only regular human present, Xander, all responded with nods or noises of agreement. “Well, lets wage our war.” Hefting the Scythe, she led her band of warriors towards the glowing doorway.

Stepping into the light there was a brief flare and they all looked around as they entered the brightly lit amphitheatre. All around them braziers flickered, there flames casting dancing shadows on the band of warriors. The ruined walls were gone, replaced by an intact structure. They stood at the end of a passage, an entrance to the arena itself. Looking back, the glow was gone and the passage stretched away in darkness. Stepping forth they looked around at the imposing structure. Xander stared, stunned by the sight. “Giles would love to see this.” He whispered.

Row upon row of stone seating stretched up on all sides and to their right the Emperors box was bedecked in gold and silks. A figure stepped forth from the shadows of the box, raising his arms.

“Welcome Gladiators!” His voice carried to them with ease. “The Flavian Amphitheatre has witnessed many historic battles and you should be honoured to grace this place with your deaths.”

Buffy led the group forward to the centre of the arena, turning to face the speaker, seemingly unimpressed by her surroundings. “You seem extremely confident, well for a guy hiding in a box at any rate. How about we settle this simply?”

The Emperor laughed, throwing his head back and baying to the heavens. “No dear Slayer, I will not be joining you. You are here for my amusement, nothing more. And since you are here, I see no point in delaying the games any further.” Majestically he clapped his hands and scores of vampires filed in, taking seats around the structure. Buffy blinked, they easily numbered over a hundred. All of them sat and waited, watching intently.

“Anyone else feel like this was a dumb idea?” Lou muttered, staring at the hordes of vampires.

Buffy stepped forward from her small band, being careful to not let her surprise and concern show. “A hundred against ten, not exactly a fair fight, where’s the entertainment in that?”

Again the Emperor laughed at her. Waving his arm to encompass the vampires around him, he smiled. “These are not your challengers, Gladiators. They are your audience.” As if on cue a woman with long black hair emerged from the shadows to stand beside the Emperor. Silently she raised her arm, with a flick of the wrist she began to cast. With a loud cracking sound and an accompanying flash she summoned creatures to surround the party of warriors.

A Minotaur raised itself high, roaring to the stars above. Two Hellhounds joined its chorus, their howls sending a chill to the bones of all whom heard them. Behind the party of Slayers, opposite the Minotaur, a Chimera appeared. Lowering itself, the creature studied the group of beings before it, a keen hunter’s intelligence working behind the eyes that stared at them. With another crack and flash a large three-headed dog appeared, causing Dawn to let out a small cry.

“Dawn?” Buffy called to her sister.

“That’s Cerberus, guardian of the underworld!” She cried out.

More flashes indicated the arrival of a third Hellhound and a large demon, oozing puss and other, more pungent, fluids. Several tentacles thrashing in the air around it.

“Form a circle!” Bastian cried out, the group swiftly moving to do so.

Standing back to back, they warily watched the new arrivals. Around them, the seven monstrous entities roared and bellowed. Buffy grimaced. With a clatter, the gate at the far end of the arena lifted and two dozen vampires emerged, each clad in ancient Roman armour, kicking up small clouds of dust as they ran out, forming a circular cordon around the creatures and Slayers.

“Great, they’ve brought friends.” Xander muttered, drawing the short sword he had brought with him, his gaze flicking between the Minotaur and the two vampires behind it. By his side, Bastian drew his own blade, the flickering light reflecting from it. “I’m thinking we might need to call in the cavalry a little sooner than anticipated Buff.” He whispered to the Blonde Slayer, casting her a nervous glance.

“No! We stick to the plan. We need to lure them in.” Her voice was low and harsh. “Bastian, you and I take the Minertoor,” Xander smiled as she mangled the name. “Xander, you take on the devil dogs and then help if you can.”

“One devil dog stew coming up.” His voice was firm and hard as he hefted the sword, adjusting his grip on the weapon slightly.

“Faith?” Buffy called out to the dark Slayer.

“I’ll take Dawn, B.” Faith answered her. “We’ve got the Chimera, keep it off your backs.”

“I’m with them.” Satsu interjected, stepping beside Dawn and smiling. “Gotta learn from the pros.”

“The rest of you, take out what you can but don’t get isolated, work in teams. And stay away from those tentacles.” Buffy’s voice carried the tone of authority, of command.

“Lets do this.” Glancing at Bastian, her expression flickered for a moment, telling him silently she was ready. Wordlessly they charged as one.

With a mighty roar the Minotaur swung its massive double headed axe at Buffy. With a grunt she brought the Scythe up, blocking the blow but being thrown to the ground with the force of the impact. Dodging to the right, Bastians’ foot shot out and connected with a well muscled torso. His blow staggered the creature slightly, giving Buffy the moment she needed to flip to her feet. Ducking under the creatures swinging blade she landed an uppercut to its jaw followed by a snap kick to the chest.

Dancing away, she drew its attention to herself, allowing Bastian to circle behind it. Wordlessly he struck out, swinging his sword in a glittering arc at the Minotaurs back. At the last moment a hoofed foot lashed out, knocking him back. Roaring it grabbed Buffy by the shirt front, lifting her bodily from the ground.

“Hey!” Bastians’ voice rang out. Turning its head, the Minotaur searched for the source of the call only to have its head rocked by a spinning kick. Bellowing in agony the creature released its grip on Buffy, dropping her to the ground. Recovering swiftly, she rolled onto her back and lashed out with her legs, knocking the Minotaur off balance and causing it to crash to the ground.

Lunging forward, Bastian raised his sword to deliver a killing blow but again he was stopped as a massive fist lashed out, connecting hard with his stomach. He grunted a little in pain, staggering back and collapsing to his knees, his sword slipping from his grasp.

Back on her feet, Buffy moved in as Bastian was knocked away, watching the creature warily. With another roar, the Minotaur lunged for her. Ducking, she dodged its grasping hand and stepped inside its reach, bringing the Scythe up in a vicious swipe that dug the curved blade deep into a well-muscled thigh. Bellowing in pain the Minotaur lashed out, a massive fist connecting with Buffys’ jaw, knocking her away like a fly.

Sparing a glance to his lover, Xander moved to the right, drawing a small throwing knife as he did so. With a flick of his wrist, the knife embedded itself in the flank of the second Hellhound to his left, making it screech in pain and drawing its attention to him. With a roar the first ‘hound leapt at him. Dropping, he ducked into a roll, feeling the rush of air as the creature sailed over him. Swiftly regaining his feet, he spun and stabbed forward, embedding his blade deep into the charging second ‘hound, ramming it deep down the open mouth, cutting off the roar in a bloody gurgle. He gave the sword an experimental tug, but it stayed fast, clearly jammed on something. He grunted explosively as the second creature slammed into him, riding his struggling body to the ground as it snapped dripping jaws at his face. Scrabbling for a grip his hands groped over the creature. Xander’s hand closed around the throwing dagger he had used moments earlier. Dodging another strike from the massive jaws he yanked the blade free and slammed it deep into an eye socket, piercing the eyeball and burying it deep into the animals brain. Grunting with effort, he shifted the limp body off of himself.

Looking around, he spotted Buffy lying dazed on the floor as Bastian leapt onto the Minotaurs back, grabbing its massive horns and pulling the head back. With a bellowing roar, the creature dropped its axe and staggered back, groping blindly for the Slayer riding it. Reaching down, Xander scooped up his partners sword and rushed forwards, swinging it wide. The monstrous creature bellowed again, this time in agony as the blade cut deep into its well-muscled chest. Xander had a brief second to savour his moment of triumph before he saw the huge fist hurtling towards his face and all went black.

“XANDER!!!” Bastian screamed as he saw his lover’s limp form hit the ground hard, Bastian’s sword skittering away. His enhanced senses heard the brittle snap of a bone breaking as Xander landed. Overcome by rage and fear for his partner Bastian tightened his grip on the creatures horns, pulling himself higher and bracing his legs against the creatures back. With all his effort he used his grip on the horns to try and twist the Minotaurs head in an effort to break its neck. Just as he thought he had the right grip, a massive hand finally caught him by the shirt and pulled him.

With a cry he went flying clean over the creatures head, slamming to the ground hard on his back. He shook his head to clear the cobwebs that had settled there. As he did so he saw Buffy flip into the air, her kick catching the wounded creature under its jaw and flipping it onto its back. In one swift movement, she scooped up the Scythe that had been dislodged during his and Xanders assault on the Minotaur and swung it swiftly, the blade biting deep into flesh and separating head from body.

Turning from the body, she rushed to Xanders’ side as Bastian did the same. Dropping to her knees, she pressed fingers to the fallen mans neck. Letting out the breath she hadn’t realised she’d been holding, she looked into blue eyes. “He’s alive. Come on, we have to finish this quick then we can get him out here. And you can tell me where he learnt to fight like that in less than two months.” Standing, she spotted Bastian’s sword and picked it up. Turning, she saw the male Slayer cradling the unconscious form of his lover in his arms. “Bastian!” She yelled. Startled, the man looked up at her. “Come on! Fight now, worry later. He’s alive, but we need to stay that way as well if he’s to live!”

Numbly, Bastian nodded his head and stood, softly laying his lovers head down. Silently he took his sword back from Buffy and gave her a blank look. “Tentacles.” He said the single word without emotion before turning and charging at the large, tentacled demon, lashing out with his sword, slicing through tentacles left and right. Not having any choice but to support him, Buffy waded into the flailing mass of flesh and chitin.


As Buffy and Bastian charged the Minotaur, Lou squeezed Serra’s hand and the pair of them rushed the massive three headed dog. Beside them, Tanya and Rona attacked the final Hellhound. Lou moved to the left, Serra taking the right, trying to disorientate the enormous creature. Darting in, Serra swiped with her battle axe, rewarded with a jet of blood. Roaring, the animal turned to her, one head snapping at her. She dodged the attack only to have a second head clamp its jaws firmly around her arm. Crying out, she punched the snarling face again and again, but the thing simply wasn’t letting go. With a savage jerk it pulled her bodily from the ground and shook her violently. She screamed out again as she felt something snap inside her arm.

Suddenly the creature let out a sharp yelp of pain and dropped her to the ground, blood pouring from the wound in her arm. Looking up through pain clouded eyes she saw Lou riding the back of one of the things necks, her hand moving rapidly as she slammed the knife she held into the side of the neck repeatedly. Roaring in agony the animal reared up on its hind legs, trying to shake her loose.

With a wet sound, two axes struck the exposed underbelly of the creature, causing it to crash to the ground and throwing Lou clear. Sliding to a stop she looked up at two smiling Slayers, stood beside the corpse of the final Hellhound. She smiled and then looked for her lover, her face going pale as she saw the young woman lying on the ground, cradling her arm. Pulling off her shirt and tearing it into strips, Lou glanced up. “Help the others, I’ve got to stop the bleeding!”

Nodding, the two girls looked around, seeing Buffy and Bastian charging the oozing demon. Dawn, Satsu and Faith were dancing around the Chimera, dodging its strikes with ease. Tanya shuddered, she had the distinct feeling that Faith was toying with the animal. She almost felt sorry for it until she saw one attack come perilously close to slicing the Asian Slayers arm off. Realising that they were in no need of any help, she turned her attention to Buffy and Bastian, who were busily slicing into tentacles with gusto. Grabbing Roan’s arm, Tanya led the charge as backup to the two embattled Slayers. A roar of pain followed by a heavy crash from behind them told Tanya that Faith had grown bored playing with the Chimera and had ended its existence swiftly.

Everyone who was able converged on the demon, dancing around it. Several of the Slayers kept darting in, slashing at tentacles and drawing the demons attention to themselves. Backing off slightly, Buffy pulled Faith back by the arm. “Wait Faith, give them a moment. That thing just keeps growing tentacles to replace the ones we chop off.”

“Sure thing B. What we aiming for?”

“Well, myself I’m going for the great big...”

“Eye?” The dark Slayer finished with a smile, her statement also a question.

“In one.”

Buffy sliced at a tentacle which lashed out at her, the dismembered appendage falling to the ground at her feet. Fortunately the others were causing enough damage to keep it preoccupied, letting Buffy and Faith wait for the opening they needed.

“Now!” Buffy cried, leaping into the fray. She dodged around Bastian who was wrestling with a tentacle wrapped around his neck. He dropped to his knees, gasping for breath as Satsu sliced through it. Leaping through an opening in the writhing mass of oozing, sticky flesh, Buffy came face to... well, eye, she thought. It wasn’t really a face. She became aware of Faith landing beside her. As one they struck out, slamming their fists into the eye. Screeching in pain, several tentacles flashed back towards the two Slayers as they drew back their fists and struck again, rupturing the giant eye at the centre of the creatures mass and showering them in pink goop. With a series of wet slaps the mass of tentacles dropped lifelessly to the ground.

Breathing heavily, Buffy moved through the mass of dead flesh trying hard not to step in or on anything, followed by Faith, kicking idly at the limp demonic appendages. “Damn B, thing smells almost as bad dead as it did alive.”

Ignoring the dark Slayer, Buffy stepped through the others to face the Emperor in his box. She glanced first to Xander, who lay now in Bastian’s arms and was starting to come around and Lou who was holding Serra tight, the other girls arm in a makeshift sling. Crossing her arms and putting on her best ‘pissed off’ face, Buffy took another step forward. “Okay Mr Toga, we’ve aced your little challenge. Now how about you pack up your things and go suck on some other town.”

The Emperor studied her in silence for a few moments. “You have done well, Slayer. However you are a Gladiator now. You go free only when I decree it.” He paused, cocking his head to one side and offering her what could charitably be called a smile. “I do not decree it.”

Stepping back, he lowered himself into his throne and glanced at the dark haired witch. “Continue.” Smiling, she stepped forward once more, raising her arms and chanting under her breath. The corpses of the creatures they had slain vanished to be replaced by living counterparts. They kept on appearing, doubling up. Two identical Minotaurs reared their horned heads and bellowed to the heavens. Two Chimeras came into existence, rearing their heads to roar and belch forth flame, their serpentine tails lashing the air. Half a dozen Hellhounds flashed into existence, baying as one to the night sky far above. They were followed by two identical three headed dogs and two more of the tentacled demons.

Buffy stared around her, dumbstruck. “Now, that’s just unfair.” Turning, she watched as Bastian helped Xander to his feet, the young mans left arm trussed up in a makeshift sling, as was Serras’. Turning back to the Emperor she smiled at him. “Don’t we get some cavalry?”

Letting Bastian support him, Xander groped in his pocket, seizing something and holding it tight as the group moved closer together, forming a tight defensive circle once again. Wordlessly, Bastian guided Xander into the centre of the protective circle and Lou did the same with Serra. Tanya flinched as one of the Chimeras bellowed again, belching flames over their heads. Raising her sword, Satsu stared flatly at the nearest Minotaur, waiting for the moment.

Without warning an ethereal wind began to manifest, growing in intensity and whipping dust up into a whirlwind. Rapidly the whirlwind became stronger and stronger, focusing into a narrowing column of twisting, spiralling sand and dust. With a flash it vanished to reveal Willow and Kennedy standing between Buffy and the Emperor. Turning her head, she smiled at Xander. “Thanks for the signal Xan. Say, you should think about having that arm checked out.” Looking around, she took in the odds and whistled. “Wow, it’s like a Dungeons and Dragons convention in here. What’s say we get rid of the fancy dress party first?” She waved her hand and the small army of monsters and demonic entities evaporated, leaving behind no trace they had ever been there.

Pushing himself violently from his throne, the Emperor marched to the front of his box, slamming his hands down on the stone ledge. “Who are you to interrupt my games? Remove them!” He bellowed. Wordlessly, half a dozen vampires, some armoured and some not, approached the new arrivals.

The pair shared a look and suddenly one crumbled to dust as Kennedy turned, flinging a stake that struck the creature clean in its cold heart. With a small gesture Willow sent two flying backwards, slamming into the ancient stone walls of the arena with enough force to crack the solid structure. With another gesture, she slammed two of the remaining vampires approaching them together with enough force a crush bones. The final vampire halted its approach and watched the two warily.

“Enough!” The Emperor shouted. “Callisus, deal with that witch!”

Dipping her head slightly in acknowledgment, the dark haired witch stepped forward, leaping from the Imperial box to the arena below. Twirling in a billowing cloud of dark silks and satins, she faced the Emperor and bowed deeply. “It would be my honour to do this for you, my Emperor.” Without another word she spun again, the black and red of her dress flowing around her like water. Her hand shot out in front of her and a bolt of pure magickal energy, a sickly purple colour, rushed towards Willow.

Above them, in his box, the Emperor gave a gesture and a dozen of the watching vampires, seated immediately around the Imperial box, stood. “Looks like you get to play after all, my most loyal subjects. Go! Tear the infidels apart and feast on their life blood!” With a roar the vampires leapt down into the arena as one.

Laughing manically Faith rushed forwards, ducking a swing from one vampire and slamming her fist into the face of another. All around the arena descended into chaos, the ancient conflict of Slayer versus Vampire played out on a far larger scale than ever before.

Side by side, Satsu and Bastian danced with the armoured vamps who had charged in along with the elites from the audience. Swinging her duel blades, the Asian Slayer was a whirling dervish of destruction. Blade struck blade in a crescendo of violence, spinning back and forth, decapitating opponents with lethality unmatched. Bastian was far less refined than his dance partner, his feet and free hand lashing out to stun enemies before he would strike swiftly with his blade, ending their unlives as efficiently as possible.

Dodging one blow, Buffy reached out and grabbed the arm, swinging the creature around with such force that it left the ground. Letting go, she watched in satisfaction as it slammed bodily into two of its compatriots sending all three tumbling to the ground in a mass of limbs. Without pause she turned into a spinning kick that sent another vampire flying away from her. Spinning the Scythe she slammed it backwards on instinct, its built in stake punching through armour with ease and turning the vampire that had been rushing her to dust. Another charged her head on. Watching him come, Buffy flipped away from him, turning the Scythe again as she did so. Landing she thrust forward with it and was rewarded with a shower of ash that carried on with the vampires momentum, coating her in a fine layer of ex-vampire. Spinning her fist connected with another vampires face, sending it reeling. She staggered as another vampire kicked her in the back and then another slammed its fist into her face. She collapsed to her knees with the force of the blow.

In the centre of the protective circle, Xander raised his mini-crossbow, taking careful aim and waiting for the moment. With a soft twang the bolt flew from the weapon, a vampire exploding to dust with its impact. Grunting with satisfaction, he struggled to reload the weapon single-handedly.

Screaming in anger, Lou launched herself at the vampiric hordes that rushed towards them, grabbing one by the head and slamming its face down to meet her knee. Tossing the stunned creature aside, blood from its shattered face spraying over her, she punched another in the chest with enough force to break bones. Stepping over the prone form of the vampire, she kicked out low at a third, shattering its kneecap. As the thing dropped down howling in agony she lashed out with a stake, ending its cries of pain in a heartbeat.

As the chaos of battle reined supreme, Willow continued her duel with the Emperors pet witch. The first blast of energy she had simply absorbed, letting the energies momentarily flow through her being, allowing her body to get a reading on what it faced. Now, floating some thirty feet above the battlefield below, she was pitched in a vicious battle, balls and bolts of magickal energy ripping through the air and leaving the very fabric of reality scarred in its passing. Suddenly her opponent changed tactics, her blasts of energy transforming into a storm of lightning, the bolts arcing over Willows body. Closing her eyes and wincing at the intense sensation, the witch concentrated and felt the lightning beginning to be absorbed by her body.

Opening her eyes, Willow’s arm shot out in front of her, the charred remains of her blouse and peasant skirt flapping in the ethereal wind that began to gather. Without a word, all the lightning she had absorbed shot from her fingertips, crashing into the other witch with enough force to hurl her through the air and into the wall of the massive structure. With a sound like the approach of a freight train, a large section of wall completely collapsed, burying the other witch underneath a pile of rubble. Smiling weakly, Willow turned in the air to assess the situation far below.

Buffy struggled on the ground, swamped by five vampires each trying desperately to be the one to finish off ‘the’ Slayer. Satsu and Bastian were similarly becoming rapidly overwhelmed as Faith, having teamed up with Lou, continued reaping a bloody rampage. Working together, the two women were cutting a swathe through the ranks of the undead but it wasn’t enough, there were simply far too many.

A cry of pain caught Willows attention and she looked around, her eyes going wide as a vampire rode Tanya to the ground, its fangs locked deep into the skin of the young woman’s neck. She raised a hand to strike the vampire down when a blast of magickal energy struck her back, knocking her from the sky.

Seeing Tanya being dragged down, Kennedy grabbed the vampire she had been fighting by its shirt collar and heaved, hurling the objecting body at the young Slayer and her assailant, the impact sending all three sprawling and interrupting the feeding. Leaping into a spinning kick, she knocked another to the ground. Recovering, she pulled a stake from inside her jacket and slammed it deep into the chest of the creature that had tried to charge her. Turning, she swung a roundhouse punch that knocked another senseless, giving her the opportunity to strike swift and true.

Roan struggled valiantly before the wounded, doing her best to keep the pair safe, but it was a battle she was destined to loose, there were simply too many opponents.  But still she fought, her short sword flashing in glittering arcs, severing heads and separating limbs from body in fountains of gore. Without the time to try for clean kills the young woman was simply intent on causing as much damage as possible to slow her opponents. After all, she thought, a vampire unable to walk was a far lesser threat than one undamaged. Any vampire she so wounded she left, concentrating on more immediate threats instead.

Bucking her whole body, Buffy threw her assailants clear and with a back flip she was back on her feet, snapping out a kick as she landed, knocking down a vampire rushing towards her. Ducking one blow aimed at her head, she thrust forward with the Scythe, rushing through the crumbling remains of the vampire swinging the Scythe down and then upwards, slicing through a vampire from bottom to top as it approached Xander from behind.

With a heavy impact Willow landed in the middle of the arena. Groaning, she pushed herself upright, staggering ever so slightly. Blood ran in a steady trickle from her nose and a large bruise was already forming on her forehead. Wiping away the blood, she looked up at the witch laughing far above.

“Okay. Now I’m pissed.” She muttered. Gathering her resolve, she launched into the air with the speed of a bullet, slamming into her enemy before she had even realised that Willow had moved. Willow released her grip at the last moment, the momentum of their flight sending her enemy crashing into the wall again. More stones crumbled around them and with a groan a large section of the wall collapsed, debris cascading down the levels of stone seating and thundering into the arena below, carrying with it the twisted body of the witch. Landing softly, Willow walked across the arena towards the mountain of stone.

With a soft clatter, first the smaller stones and then gradually larger ones began to tumble down the pile as something within stirred. With a sudden blast of power the rubble exploded out across the arena, several of the smaller stones making impacts like bullets. Willow barely registered a cry of pain from behind her as she approached the witch who now stood where the debris had been. Lightning crackled in the witches hands, arcing from finger to finger. In a heartbeat her fingers splayed wide and blue-white lightning exploded from her fingertips. Raising her own hand, Willow drew the powerful dark magic into herself. Slowly her hair began to darken. Finally her opponent ceased her attack, Willow let her hand ball into a fist and then slammed it down into the arena floor. Where her fist struck, the ground began to darken as her natural hair colour returned. Closing her eyes, Willow poured the magic she had absorbed back where it had come from, the Earth.

Standing again, Willow opened her eyes once more and stared at her counterpart as she stepped towards the witch, who in turn stood shell-shocked by what she had just witnessed. She had never met anyone before who could just absorb magic like that. Setting her face she unleashed another spell, a ball of fire hurtling towards the calmly approaching witch. With a wave of her hand, Willow smiled as the fireball broke up and transformed into a pair of pure white doves that took flight immediately.

“Okay, you’ve been a very naughty girl.” Willow stated calmly. With a tiny gesture, a ball of green energy rushed out and wrapped around the other womans waist, binding her arms by her side and immediately pacifying the witch, levitating her a few inches above the ground. Willow walked up to her captive, held in the same spell Giles had used against her back in Sunnydale, ignoring the vicious battle that raged around her and that seemed to in turn be ignoring her. “As resident mommy witch, I think I’m going to have to deal with this, don’t you?” She asked.

The captive witch’s eyes went wide in fear as Willow stopped a few inches from her. “I think I’m going to have to ground you.” Willow said softly, shaking her head. “And no more magic either.” Without another word, she held her hand an inch or two over the other womans’ heart. A deep red mist began to emerge from her chest, writhing and pulsating as it was drawn towards and into Willow’s open palm. Finally the flow slowed and eventually stopped. Stepping back, Willow released the binding spell, the now powerless young woman dropping to the arena weeping. Looking down at her without pity, Willow whispered one more word. “Ever.”

Turning, she walked a short distance and again placed her hand on the ground, the magic flowing from her, returning to the Earth. As the magick flowed from her she finally became aware of the rest of the world, the terrible battle raging all around her. A cry of pain brought her attention to a crumpled figure on the ground. The tattered remains of a long, dark green jacket told who it was before she turned him over. She let out a gasp as she finally saw the bloody wound in Bastian’s gut, looking for all the world like the bullet wound that had taken Tara from her. She pressed her hand against his flesh, trying to stem the flow of blood. She whispered a spell and slowed some of the bleeding, but a full healing would take time and energy she didn’t have at the moment.

“Willow!” The redhead looked up as Buffy cried her name. “We’ve got to get out of here! There’s too many of them!” Closing her eyes, Willow nodded. There was only one way of doing this, she just had to hope that her practice had been sufficient. Focusing her power, she threw out a wall of force that knocked all the vampires away, slamming them into the arena walls. Chanting softly, she erected a low-level barrier to keep them at bay. It wouldn’t hold for long, but she needed all the energy she could muster for the next part. Turning she started to chant once more, her hands moving in a series of complex gestures.

The air before her began to distort, rippling with energy. With a tearing sound, the ripple opened into a portal. Willow smiled to herself. “It’s open!” She called out as behind them the barrier she had erected faltered and faded away. With a combined roar the vampires charged towards them again. “Everyone get through, now!” She shouted, her hands held out before her keeping the portal open. Bending down, Lou scooped Serra up in her arms and ran into the opening, followed immediately by Tanya and Roan.

Buffy turned to Satsu, gesturing at the wounded Bastian as she bent to pick up Xander. “Come on, grab him!” Her voice was hard with tension as she dashed towards and through the portal. Her head bobbing in agreement, Satsu scooped Bastian up in her arms and moved towards the shimmering portal. Turning she saw Dawn and Kennedy had taken up the rear guard, fending off the first few vampires that approached. Stopping at the edge of the portal she turned once more and shouted out to the pair. “Come on girls, you’re the last two!” With that stepped through the portal, her charge held tight.

Kennedy heard the Asian Slayers call and turned, running for the portal, her arms pumping and her breath coming in ragged gasps. She could feel her heart pounding within her chest. Suddenly a voice cried out to her, warning her. On instinct, she started to turn to face the threat behind her. As she turned an explosive grunt of pain left her lips. Looking down, she stared at the bloodied sword tip poking through her shirt. And her body.

“KENNEDY!” Dawn shrieked, hurling herself bodily through the air she collided with the vampire that had stabbed Kennedy, knocking it away from her and tearing the sword out of Kennedy as they went. Tumbling to the dirt covered arena floor, she rolled away from the creature. In an instant she was on her feet, lashing out before the vampire could come to its senses. Kicking it to the floor, she flipped a sword into her hand using her foot and decapitated the creature in one smooth motion. Discarding the sword, she bent and picked up the wounded Slayer, moving them both towards the shimmering portal and safety.

Willows’ face paled as she saw the blood covering Kennedy’s shirt. *Not again* she pleaded to any deity who may be watching. *Not again. Not like this* “GO!” She yelled, putting her hand on Dawn’s shoulder, who had slowed to let Willow check on her girlfriend, and giving her a gentle push towards the portal. “I’ll deal with this and join you all in a moment.” Turning from the portal, she released the spell and watched as it closed with an audible pop. Taking slow steps towards the vampiric hoard bearing down upon her, she raised her hands and sent them all hurtling away from her, tumbling end over end. With that threat momentarily dealt with she turned her attention to the Emperors Box only to find it empty, abandoned. Muttering, she returned her attention to the dozens of vampires around her. Levitating, she raised herself above them, out of their reach.

With a simple gesture, balls of eldritch flame shot from her fingers, engulfing and immolating vampires by the score. Content that she had reaped a bloody toll on the Emperors minions, she turned her thoughts to Kennedy. With a flash, she was gone.




Stepping from the portal into Xander and Bastian’s living room, Dawn turned to wait for Willows arrival, Kennedy cradled in her arms. As she watched the portal simply closed, vanishing as though it had never been there.

“Dawn!” She turned from where the portal had been as Buffy rushed towards her. “What happened? Where’s Willow?” The elder Summers’ girl demanded, gingerly peeling back Kennedys’ blood soaked shirt to reveal the ragged wound beneath. She let out a soft gasp, whoever had done this must have twisted the blade as they withdrew, it was the only thing to account for so much damage.

Shakily, Dawn moved towards the sofa and gently laid Kennedy on it. “One jumped her at the last moment, I couldn’t get to her in time. Willow shoved us through the portal, I thought she was right behind us, but she must have closed the portal instead.”

Buffy paled slightly. If Willow had deliberately closed the portal, then that meant she didn’t want anyone interfering with whatever she was doing. Which meant they might just have another round of Vengeance Willow to contend with, which was something she just couldn’t handle right…

Several people cried out in shock or just simply screamed as Willow appeared amongst them. Buffy sighed in relief as she looked into her friends eyes and saw no trace of black there. Whatever she had done, she hadn’t gone to the dark place in order to do it. “Will?” She asked, all the questions she had wrapped up in one word.

“He got away, but I took out a lot of his followers.” The witch said emotionlessly as she moved over to kneel beside her lover. He held her hands just above the wound and closed her eyes, incanting softly. After a moment she opened them again and looked up. “We need to get her to a hospital, I’ve slowed the bleeding but I haven’t enough energy left to do more than that.”

As if on cue, Satsu came in holding the phone. “The ambulance is on its way. We’ve got maybe five minutes, lets get them outside and then we can say it was some kind of gang attack.” Nodding her head in agreement, Dawn gently lifted the now unconscious Kennedy and moved carefully towards the door.




The hospital door banged open as Giles rushed through, scanning the waiting room. His eyes locked onto the tired looking blonde sat in a corner with several others. Calming himself, he deliberately slowed his pace and approached the huddled group. Looking up, Buffy spotted him and in one swift movement was on her feet, letting the older man hold her in a caring embrace.

“I came as soon as I heard. What happened Buffy?” He asked his voice quiet and concerned.

“We got blindsided Giles.” She whispered back. “I got blindsided.” She corrected herself, her tone slightly harsher. “I knew he was powerful so we went in force. But he went in force too.” She looked up into concerned eyes. “There must have been over a hundred vampires there Giles, even if some of them only came to watch.”

His eyebrows raised as she passed on that little bit of information. “Good lord.” He muttered absently.

“It got worse though – he had a witch with him, she summoned all sorts of critters. Minutetoors…” She added, her voice breaking. “There were so many Giles. We had to run.”

He pulled back from their embrace, placing both hands on the shoulders of the young woman before him and stared into hazel eyes. “You did good Buffy, you couldn’t have known what he had in there. It sounds like you were lucky to get everyone out.” As he said this, a single tear slid down Buffy’s cheek. “What?” He inquired gently.

“I didn’t.” She whispered.

“Didn’t what?” He asked, but he had a terrible feeling he knew what she was going to say.

“I didn’t get them all out. Tanya died of blood loss thirty minutes ago.” She said simply, her voice small and flat. “And Kennedy’s in surgery now. They don’t know…” Her voice trailed off as Giles hugged her tight once more before leading her back to the seat she had vacated. Looking at the battered and bruised group around him. Several more absences finally registered and he turned to his Slayer - *How ironic* he mused to himself *After all these years, I still think of her as my little Slayer* - laying a hand on her arm.

“Buffy, where are Xander and Bastian?” He asked her gently, adding the final missing person. “And Serra?”

Before Buffy could answer, Xander’s voice interrupted. “Right here, Mr. Watcher.” He said with a smile, stepping into the waiting room. His arm was in a cast and he had several nasty bruises on his face. His smile faded abruptly. “I just heard a doctor talking with a nurse. They’re operating on Bastian now. Whatever hit him made a mess. They… they don’t know…” His voice broke and he collapsed in the doorway, the tears and emotions he usually held deep inside, hidden from even Willow, flooding from him. In a heartbeat, he found himself wrapped up in a tight hug.

From her position on the floor holding Xander, Dawn looked up with pleading eyes at Giles. “There must be something you can do. Something the Council can do!” She demanded as Xander continued to hold on to her.

“I wish there were, but we’re only just getting organised. All the healers I personally knew of in the Councils employ were present when the building was destroyed.” He replied sadly before adding, “I’ve sent a message to Willow’s coven, but with such heavy trauma, they’ll be hesitant to act less they unintentionally impede the more traditional ministrations of the medical staff.” He took his glasses off, giving them a quick polish before replacing them and returning the young womans’ somewhat hostile look. “I’m afraid all we can do is wait.”




Willow sat huddled in the corner of the waiting room, her knees pulled up under her chin and arms wrapped around them. She was exhausted and already starting to the feel after effects of so much intense magick use. The portal and teleportation had been bad enough, but fighting and then draining that witch had taken so much, more than she’d ever known she had to give.

“Miss Rosenberg?” She looked up at the sound of her name, spotting a young doctor holding a clipboard. “I’m looking for a Miss Willow Rosenberg.” Silently Willow pushed from her seat, nearby Buffy did the same. Sharing anxious looks, they approached the man.

“I’m Willow Rosenberg.” She said, introducing herself.

“You registered Miss Campbell when she was brought in?” He inquired. Willow merely nodded. He turned his gaze to Buffy. “And you, Miss?”

“I’m Buffy Summers. We’ve all been through a lot together. How is Kennedy?” She asked.

He gave her a gentle smile. “I’m sorry, but at the moment I can only talk directly to Miss Rosenberg. Although I will need to discuss another patient with you, momentarily. If I could just have a moment with Miss Rosenberg?” Buffy looked at Willow who merely moved her head slightly, telling Buffy it was okay. Silently, the Slayer back off.

“Now, Miss Rosenberg. What relation are you to Miss Campbell?” He inquired.

“I’m her, well girlfriend. I was thinking of something more soon though. But we’re the only friends and family she has here. Her parents are in New York.” She said quickly, worried how he might react.

“Well, normally such situations would require us contact the patients family, but since I’ve seen your passports…” Willow was quietly glad that she and Kennedy had never officially left the United Kingdom, so their passports still showed them as being visitors here, “And you are listed in it as an emergency contact, I see no reason to complicate matters. Miss Campbell is in a very serious condition. Whatever was used to wound her was literally twisted out. It has caused a lot of damage, including some to the spinal column. It appears to have severed several nerve clusters as well. We’ve repaired the tissue and organ damage as best we can, but the spinal and nerve damage is extensive.”

“What does all that mean?” Willow asked softly, ashen faced.

“I’m sorry Miss Rosenberg, but it looks like your partner will never walk again.” The Doctor finished gravely. “I’m very sorry and we will, of course, be referring her to the very best neurological surgeons we can. But the prognosis doesn’t look good.”

Willow paled even more. “Can I see her? Does she know?”

“Shortly, she is being transferred from surgery at the moment. And no, she isn’t aware yet as she is still heavily sedated. I or an orderly will come and find you when you can visit her.” He gave her one last sympathetic look. “And I am truly sorry that we couldn’t do more.” Willow didn’t reply, instead silently returning to her chair and sinking into it.

Having heard the entire conversation thanks to her enhanced senses, Buffy spared her best friend a compassionate glance before approaching the doctor. “You said you needed to speak with me?”

The doctor glanced up from what he had been reading. “Oh yes, Miss Summers. You brought in Mr. Childe, correct?” Seeing her gesture of acknowledgement he asked her the same question he had asked Willow not long before. “What relation are you to him?”

“I’m just a friend. I don’t think he has any family left, his sister was murdered about two years ago.” She answered the man honestly.

“I see. Well, I can’t really discuss his case with you. Are you sure there are no relatives who can be contacted?” He questioned.

“No, but his partner might.” Turning, she walked away from the doctor and crouched beside Xander, who was now sat in a chair, silent. The tears had long since stopped and he simply stared at the floor. She laid a hand on his knee and spoke ever so softly. “Xander?” He didn’t even blink. She tried again. “Xander?”

Slowly he turned his head to look at her. “The doctor needs to know if Bastian has any family. Do you know?”

Xander swallowed and shook his head. “His parents died in a car crash six years ago, his grandfather almost a decade ago and his grandmother is in a residential home. He never mentioned any aunts or uncles.”

Buffy bobbed her head. “Do you think you can chat with the doctor? He won’t tell me anything.” Xander didn’t answer, instead pushing himself unsteadily to his feet. Slowly he approached the doctor. She heard Xander explain his relationship with Bastian and then doctor asking if Xander would like to go somewhere more private.

Xander shook his head. She continued to listen as the doctor succinctly explained Bastians’ condition. There was extensive damage, but none of it permanent. They had managed to stem the internal bleeding and no major organs had been damaged. He was going to need a lot of rest, but he would recover. She watched as Xander slumped with the news, fresh tears flowing freely.



Xander sat in the chair beside the bed in which Bastian lay. The steady, rhythmic beeping of the systems monitoring the other man had lulled him to sleep. Buffy stood in the doorway, watching silently. The young man asleep in the chair looked so peaceful, untroubled by the dangers of the world. After a few more moments she turned to leave the pair to rest.

“Don’t go.” She turned at the sound of the voice. Xander was still in the same position, he hadn’t moved a muscle. Thinking she’d imagined it she started to back out again. This time she saw Xander’s lips move. “I never thanked you. For getting us out.”

“You don’t have to Xan.” She stepped into the room and softly closed the door. “You didn’t do too bad yourself. I don’t want to look a gift horse in the mouth, but…”

“When did I get so good at fighting?” He finished for her.

“Uh-huh. It was kind of on my mind.” She confirmed, leaning against the wall and fingering one of the plastic flowers in a small vase on the windowsill.

“You want the short version or the long version?” He asked her wryly.

“How about short with optional directors commentary?” She answered with a small, wistful smile.

“Okay, cinematic cut not directors edition it is.” His reply was humorous but the jest didn’t reach his face. “You remember years ago, back when Spike first hit Sunnydale and Ethan worked his Halloween mojo?” He looked at her to see if she remembered the adventure he was talking about. Seeing her head move in understanding he continued. “I did a spell to restore the soldier know-how I gained through the spell. I now know how to kill a man in twenty-three different ways using only my bare hands. And twenty-two of them will work on practically every human sized demon we’ve ever encountered.”

“Why?” She asked simply. “You were handy enough before. Why do it? You’ll be in more danger.”

“I’ll be in danger whether I can fight well or not Buffy. And I have more reason now than ever before to stand side by side with you and your army.” He indicated the sleeping figure before them. “Where he goes, I go. It’s that simple. And given the places Slayers tend to end up, I figure I need all the advantages I can get. I can’t work the mojo like our Willster. I don’t have your speed or innate skill. But I did have one thing – and now I have it back.”

“I guess I can’t talk you in to undoing this?” She pushed away from the wall as Xander silently shook his head. She stepped closer to the bed, looking down at the pale man laying in it. “He looks so peaceful.”

“He is.” Bastians’ voice was barely audible. “But he’d be more peaceful if you two could either involve him or take the heart to heart elsewhere.”

“Hey, you’re awake.” Xander pushed up from his chair and hovered beside the bed, smiling warmly down at his wounded lover, the worry and concern he felt absent from his voice but filling his eyes. He reached out and brushed a stray lock of hair back from Bastian’s face. “You really should learn to dodge. Don’t they put that in the Slayer-download package when you get called?”

“Guess my download was corrupted.” Bastian joked weakly. “Although, you know this kind of thing will keep on happening.” He paused, wincing slightly. “Ow, I think the meds must be wearing off. Gods, they’re stingy with the painkillers you know.”

“Okay, you need to rest.” Xander said firmly. “We can chat later.”

“N-No.” He winced again. “I want to do this now. Afraid I’m not fully prepared, but…” He took a shuddering breath. “We’re going to face this kind of thing again and again. And as optimistic as I am, I’m also a realist. One day, one of us won’t be in a bed. We’ll be in a box.”

“Don’t talk like that Bastian.” Buffy interrupted, her voice hard. “Thinking like that will get you killed.”

“Buffy, I’m a firm believer in we’ll do our best and win most of the time. But we’re only human. Which is why I need to do this now, before I second guess myself.” He turned his head slightly to look at Xander as best he could. “Xander, I don’t want to regret a single moment of our lives together. And I know you had issues with long-term commitment in the past but… Will you marry me?”

Buffy stared open mouthed as Xander stood beside the bed in a stunned silence. “Well,” Bastian continued. “At least you’re not laughing, running screaming from the room or telling me to get bent. No pun intended.” Xander did laugh this time, a short, uneasy sound, before going quiet once more and lowering himself into his chair.

“Wow Bastian. I mean… wow.” He looked down at his hands, screwing them in his lap. Finally he looked back up. “Yes.”