Buffy: Heart of Darkness Chapter 6

8/3/2019 Buffy: Heart of Darkness Chapter 6

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Chapter Six

June 16, 2003

Sunnydale

How long are we gonna wait for him to wake up? Buffy groused, buttering her toast.

Giles frowned at her across the table. He did get shot with an electric stun gun, Buffy.

Even a vampire as hale as Angel will take some time to recover from that.Xander glanced up from his cereal, making brief eye contact with Buffy, and looked back

down again. Shed been in a surly mood all last night, after losing track of Spike in the sewers,

and morning had done little to improve her disposition.

Buffy scowled at him. You better apologize, she warned.

Xander held up a hand. I will.

Buffy huffed and resumed eating.

I must admit, Im not entirely comfortable sequestering Druscilla in a holding pen in thebasement. Spikes going to guess fairly soon where we are holing her up, and Im afraid of what

horrible things she might say to Valeria.

Youre just a bleeding heart for all those pretty faces, arent you? Buffy sniped.

Giles lowered his glasses. I beg your pardon?

What was up with all that last night with the wine, and the fire, and that dress, and...and... Buffy stared at him accusingly.

We were two adults enjoying one anothers company, Giles replied. I dont see that

its any more of your business thanthat.

Giles, Buffy spoke. He met her eyes.

I have nothing against you having a social life, creepy though that may be. I just think

that with everything thats going on, you just might wanna keep focused, thats all.Xander glanced up at both of them quickly, then back down at his food. He knew better

than to insert himself between Giles and Buffy when they went at it. Especially after I almost

spent last night on the couch.

Buffy, I am keeping focused. He adjusted his glasses. You dont hear me chiding you

for your activities with Xander, and they--

Xanders one of the good guys, Buffy pointed out. We dont know that about Payne

yet. Sure, she seems like she wants to help, but... She trailed off as a door upstairs opened witha creak.

You slept with her? Buffy whispered, eyebrows rising.

Of course not, Giles replied. She took my bed, and I slept on a cot in the den. He

glanced in the direction of the stairs. Now dont say anything more about this, Buffy.Morning, Payne greeted them as she came down the stairs. She wore one of Giles

bathrobes, a brown flannel number, but on her it barely came down to her knees. Her long dark

hair had been pulled back in an unruly ponytail. I trust everyone slept well last night.

We caught the guys who burned down your house, Buffy announced. One of em,anyway. Got her locked up down in Giles little jail.

Payne raised an eyebrow, her lip curling up in a smile. Really? she queried. And you

didnt stake her?

his entire document copyright [email protected]


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Its sort of complicated, Giles told the witch.

Isnt that your job? Payne asked Buffy. To slay vampires?

Its sort of complicated, Buffy echoed Giles words, her tone much harsher.

I see, Payne spoke, padding off into the kitchen to get something to drink. I suppose

thanks are in order. My lifes not in as much danger any more, I suppose.

You should be safe here, Giles agreed, and Buffy and Xander made quick eye contactat the warmth in his tone of voice.

Thats very reassuring, Payne replied, sipping on some tea. So do we question her,

or...?

We question her, Buffy replied.

Angel sat up on the couch, squinting in the bright light of the morning. The sun shone in

several feet away from him, illuminating the front of the room.

Morning, he managed.

Buffy moved over to him. Are you okay?

He nodded slowly. I think so. Even though things didnt exactly go as planned.

Sorry about that, Xander offered.

Long as you took down the bad guys, Angel commented.We got Dru, Buffy explained. Spike lost me in the sewers.

Angel nodded, starting to get up when he saw Payne. Whats she doing here? hewondered.

Angel, Payne. Payne, Angel. Shes the one Spike and Dru were trying to kill. Buffyfolded her arms. That aint gonna happen.

Angel shook his head. Okay, but whats she doing here?

No place is safer than here, right now. Especially with Spike on the loose, Gilesvolunteered.

Angel looked at him, and then Buffy. I saw her talking to Faith last night when we came

into town.

All eyes immediately shifted to Payne.

*Willy gasped for breath. I swear, Spike. I swear I didnt know it was you she was aimin

for. His face flushed a dark crimson. Id never betray you! he wheezed out.Spike closed a fist; a wretched cracking noise followed, Willys windpipe collapsing

completely. Spike continued to squeeze, tearing the bone and muscle underneath Willys flesh,

snapping his spine. The snitchs head lolled to the side, and blood gurgled from his mouth. Spikedropped the corpse to the floor and kicked him again, for good measure. Bloody right about

that, the vampire growled.

Spike took a deep breath and closed his eyes. The last thing I want to do is feed off that

sodding bastard, but Im tired and hungry and I have a bloody lot to get done, and no time to get

it done in.He grimaced as he bent down, his long fangs sinking into Willys throat below wherehe had crushed it, the sharp ivory incisors slicing neatly through the flesh. Spike drank deep,

sucking down Willys blood, feeding steadily but not gulping it down, pacing himself. Feed too

fast and Ill fall asleep, he knew. Cant have that. One mistake now and Im a dead man. Theyvegot those toy soldier electro guns. Bastard Slayer!



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After a space he had drained Willy almost completely. He sat back, wiping his mouth on

his sleeve, and considered his options. Buffy had dogged him for hours last night. She had doneher best not to let him get away, and tricks that had worked on other Slayers in the past had

proven ineffective. Shes been around longer than most other Slayers, and she knows every

damn inch of this city by now. Thats a big advantage.

Hed eventually been forced to take the sewers out to sea and lose Buffy there, wherethere was simply too much open territory for her to cover. It had been nearly dawn and he had

gambled his life on Buffy making the assumption that he would be looking for cover from the

sunlight. Of course he had, but hed doubted Buffy would have thought to look for him in theLutheran church that sat across the street from the squat row of beach bungalows for rent by the

day or week. Sanctuary, Spike mused.Bleeding irony, me hiding from the Slayer in a church. He

had stayed in there most of the morning; when the minister had come to ask him if everythingwas fine, Spike had checked to be sure the church was clear before he had strangled the man and

taken his vestments to protect his flesh from the destructive rays of the sun. Idve rather eaten

off him, but the less clues I leave for Buffy the better. No doubt her and the great poof will be out

looking for me after dark.

But I cant wait until its dark, Spike muttered, standing up. He grabbed a bottle of JackDaniels and took a long swig, the powerful liquor washing away the taste of Willys blood. I

covered my tracks in the church, and I will here too. He splashed a liberal amount of whiskeyon the bar, then doused Willy with it. He flicked his lighter open, setting the dead man aflame

first, and then igniting the alcohol on the bar. This feels sort of familiar, he pondered as he

watched the flames spread from the bar to the bottles of liquor behind it, some of them shattering

open with the heat, feeding the flame. First that witch thats tryin to do us all in, and now thesnitch that delivered Dru to the Slayer. Spike shook his head as he moved toward the back door,

heading for the trap door in the floor that would grant him access to the sewers.

He paused briefly to watch the flames climb higher; as he bent over and grabbed the ringto pull up the trap door, he knew instantly something was wrong.

The door had been nailed shut.

Willy was expectin Id come after him, Spike realized as he glanced around for a crowbar

or even a hammer. Stupid bastard, Spike growled. Never thought Id come through the front

door in the middle of the day, did you? Briefly Spike considered that option, but the ever-

spreading fire had already consumed the black robes he had appropriated from the minister.

Bloody hell, Spike spat, kicking down the door to Willys office. He waved away some of thesmoke that had started to filter back this way.Bloody good thing I dont breathe.

He briefly considered trying to bash through the floor with the fire extinguisher Willy

kept back here, but realized that would take long enough to allow the flame to catch him. Spike

searched about urgently, but apparently Willy wasnt big on heavy blunt objects that could beused as a battering ram in a moment of duress. Spike swore voluminously and was about to go

back and brave the fire when he spotted Willys small floor safe sitting in the corner. If this is

bolted down, Im bloody finished, Spike muttered, and he bent over and picked up the safe.Even for a creature as strong as he, the safe was damned heavy. Spike tottered through

the smoky hallway, trying not to drop the bulky, hefty safe, lest he break -- or sever-- a foot. At

last he had returned to the trap door; the flame grew closer. He lifted the safe as high as he could

manage, the powerful muscles in his arms screaming in protest, and he let fly with the steel lockbox. It thudded impressively on the floor, one stout leg poking a hole through the thick wooden

slats.



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Great, Spike bitched, first I nearly get burned to death, now Im gonna get a hernia

gettin away. He picked up the safe with some effort and dropped it again. Wood crackedaudibly, splinters flying in all directions. Careful, he thought, turning away from the shards,

shielding his vulnerable heart with his arm and shoulder. The safe had cleared a hole big enough

to slip his head through, but not the rest of his body. Grumbling, and very aware of the

advancing flames, Spike hoisted the safe again and grunted as he let it slip. At last it punched agaping opening in the trap door, shook for a second, then fell through. Spike wrapped his long

leather coat around him and followed suit, dropping down into the fetid water of the sewer. And

itll even look like a robbery, he noted with satisfaction as he stood up, glancing down at the safeas it lay half-buried in the muck.Likely wont fool the Slayer, though.

Spike leaned closer, mindful of the collapsing building overhead. The door of the safe sat

ajar; apparently the old girl hadnt been designed to withstand a drop of a dozen feet ontoreinforced concrete. Spike flipped the door open and raised an eyebrow. The twenty and fifty

wraps didnt surprise him, though he pocketed them gladly. He reached in on the otherwiseempty top shelf and withdrew a small black leather-bound journal; opening it he saw, in neat,

small handwriting, an extensive list of the demons, vampires, and other unworldly beings that

called Sunnydale home.This will come in very handy, Spike admitted, slipping it into the inner pocket of his

long coat.

Rest easy, Dru. Daddyll have you free by nightfall.

*Its not that hard to explain, Payne offered.

Buffy turned around on her chair, folding her arms over the back of it. This oughtta be

good.

Buffy... Giles cautioned, and then he looked over at Angel. When did you see them?

Angel shrugged. Must have been, I dont know, two, two-thirty.

Giles frowned. I thought you were asleep in my bed, he aimed at Payne.

Xander actually bit his tongue -- gently -- to keep his mouth shut.

I was, briefly, Payne disclosed. But one of my little helpers woke me up and told hedlocated the other Slayer.

And you just decided to go after her, without waking me? Giles wore a slightlywounded expression.

I didnt see the need, Rupert, or where it would do any good. You were snoring,

obviously deep asleep. You told me that you people and this girl have a history--

Thats a Ph.D. in understatement, Xander piped up.

Payne continued, If I brought any of you with me, that might have sparked anunwelcome response in her, or worse.

Shes smooth,Buffy thought. So whatd you want with her?

Payne folded her arms. This spell that Im working on is going to generate a lot ofmagical overflow, for want of a better way to put it. Anyone even vaguely attuned to magic is

going to know its going on -- not just here, but all over the world. For most of them, itll be too

late to do anything about it, but with one of those vampires who tried to kill me loose in the

greater Sunnydale area, hell definitely have enough time to gather forces and come looking for

us. And with a spell thats going to affect the whole world, we wont be too hard to find.



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She cleared her throat. Given that, were going to be a target as soon as I start the magic.

And since Ill be busy, I cant protect us. Ill be too busy concentrating on the werewolf spell. Infact, I--

What werewolf spell? Angel questioned her.

Xander spoke up. Tall dark and supernaturally powerful here figured out how to give all

the werewolves control over their furry halves. He looked at Buffy. Like Teen Wolf.Angel shook his head. You mean all the werewolves? Every last one of them? In the

whole world?

Payne nodded. Its an ancient spell, but Im confident it will work.

Id like to see it, Angel mentioned.

Im sure you would, Payne agreed with a hint of a sneer. Vampyr.

Hey, Buffy spat, hopping up off the chair. Angel is on our side here. Hes one of the

good guys. The jurys still out on you, lady.

Payne frowned. How can you even think--

Hello? Buffy interrupted. Middle of the night chat with psycho Slayer that you still

havent explained?

Buffy, Giles spoke sternly. Let Payne continue. I want to hear this myself.She turned to Giles. Thank you, Rupert. Anyway, Buffy, since I -- and by extension

anyone near me, including, Im guessing, present company, and Oz, Willow, and at least oneother werewolf -- are all going to be targets, I thought it would be a good idea --

Another werewolf? Xander interrupted her. Where are we gonna find another

werewolf? Weve got our hands full with the one weve got now.

The others stared at him.

What? Its a valid question, he defended himself.

Jordis a werewolf too, Buffy said. Hed be happy to help us.

Jordi? Angel wondered.

Ozs nephew, Giles explained. Hes still a young boy, but remarkably energetic.

Angel nodded in semi-understanding.

Payne glanced at them all before continuing. Wonder how far Ill get this time? So,

again, were targets, who knows whats going to come after us, probably a lot of vampires anddefinitely our arsonist, so I thought while she was here that I should talk to --

Spike I understand, because we have Dru. But why a lot of vampires? Angel queried.

Why specifically vampires?Buffy turned to Angel, sorrow touching her features. Werewolves are supposed to hunt

vampires.

Which they will, when their senses are fully restored to them, trust me, Payne added.

And your friends who burned down my house are aware of that. Thats why they are after me.

Angel nodded. They thought you wanted to create some sort of hybrid

werewolf/Slayer. He tilted his head in thought. They werent all that far off.

Payne gestured to him. Thats essentially correct, though a little flawed. But thats whySpike, and whatever allies he can summon, will be after us. So I thought that Faith might be

willing to help guard me while I cast the spell.

What makes you think bad Slayer will want to help us? Xander queried.

Really, Payne, Giles concurred. I wish you had consulted with me. Or any of us, for

that matter. Faith has some issues as regards us, and hasnt exactly shown a willingness to act inour best interests previous to this. Shes tried to kill all of us at one time or another. He shook



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his head. I understand your intentions, butyouve probably only succeeded in tipping her off to-

-

Payne took a small measure of petty satisfaction in cutting someone else off. Shes

already agreed.

Buffy raised both eyebrows.

Oh, she doesnt bear any great love for any of you, certainly, Payne confessed. Butshe realizes this spell will ultimately help her too. Faith may not like any of you, or even me, but

she loves hunting vampires. And now, with a bunch of werewolf allies, she can go crazy on that

all she wants. Payne looked at Buffy. You might even be able to retire.Buffy blinked.

Giles, Xander, and Angel all remained quiet, absorbed in their thoughts.

*I am not liking this, Simon Taltos noted, watching the firefighters combat the flame

from a small color monitor hooked up to a discreet camera on the outside of the gleaming black

van. You were saying we are to be finding a lead to the Slayer here, and the place is being inflames.

Geoff rubbed his stubbled chin. They had driven straight from Los Angeles after setting

Angels apartment to the torch. Or Angelus, really,Geoff reminded himself. Theyd arrived inSunnydale just after dawn broke and had been thoroughly unable to locate Buffy Summers.

Couldnt just go where she lived when I knew her, Geoff noted sourly as another fire engine

pulled up. She lived in a dorm.The next logical step had been to check the listing for Summers in the phone book; there

were only three in Sunnydale, none of them Buffy, and Geoff couldnt remember her mothers

name. Thats the sort of thingyoud think they would have on file, but apparently no one everthought it was important. Except Rupert Giles, Id bet, and we donthave his records, becausewe fired him.John had suggested looking up Buffys friends; they would know where she was,and an innocuous visit from an old friend wouldnt seem out of place. Geoff could warn her

without alerting the others; hed leave that for her to do, if she even found it necessary. They hadtried that as soon as the hour had become decent. Willow was on her honeymoon with Oz, her

father had disclosed when he was satisfied Geoff really was a friend from her college days. He

didnt know where Buffy lived either.

From there Geoff had been stumped. He didnt know Xanders last name -- the boy had

never hung around campus all that much -- and he doubted Ozs family would even know who

Buffy was.If Oz has a family. Or a real name.

Theres always Giles, Karina volunteered in the seat next to him. Hed know where

she is.

Geoff pulled his eyes away from the firefighters and looked over at her. I was hoping we

could take care of this without his help. Angelus is likely to key in on Buffy. The sooner we find

her, the sooner we find him. And Spike and Druscilla.

And Giles will be able to help us find her? John queried.

He was her Watcher, Karina pointed out. Probably knows her bettern anybody.

The lets get moving, John urged.

Geoff made brief eye contact with him. While we arent exactly forbidden to contacthim, it is frowned upon. He was expelled from the Council.



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Now is not being a good time to stick fastly to the rules, Simon advised from the rear

of the van. Now is being the time to warn the Slayer.

Who doesnt exactly love our type either, Geoff pointed out.

Bet she likes us more than she likes vampires tryin to kill her, Karina spoke.

Geoff rubbed his chin in thought. Angelus is likely to head for Giles if he cant find

Buffy. He nodded, looking at the others. Okay, that makes sense. Peter, give me Gilesaddress.

Peter tapped the laptop to life, fingers dancing over the keys. Capeside Apartments, he

disclosed, rattling off the address and the quickest route there. Geoff moved off casually as the

firefighters started getting the blaze at Willys under control and headed off toward Wilkins

Boulevard. Everybody load up, he announced as he turned onto the wide avenue. If they got

into town too far ahead of us, they may already have ambushed Giles. They might even be in his

apartment. So everybody pack hydro.

Roger, John agreed. So we go in full bore, guns ... well, not blazing ... spitting, Iguess?

Geoff considered their plan of attack a moment. No, Ill go alone, casual, like at

Willows. No need to raise suspicion.Karina shook her head, ponytail swaying. No way, she told him. You just said three

very dangerous hostiles might be in there. No way you goin solo on this one.

Geoff glanced out the window as he drove. Its a sunny day. They cant come out after

me, and they cant pull me inside if I step away from the door. He clicked on the blinker,stopping at a yellow light. I want you guys watching and ready just in case anything happens,

but I dont want to tip our hand if we dont have to.

What the hell are you worried about that for? Peter asked. So Giles knows the

Watchers Council has hunter teams. So what? Who cares what he knows?

The less anyone knows of our existence, the better, John argued. Im with Geoff on

that one. In theory, anyway. I dont want to risk your life unnecessarily, boss, b ut you may be on

to something. We want to find Buffy, not reveal ourselves to the public at large.

She better be something to be worth all this risk, Peter muttered.

Simon added, She is better being hell of a Slayer to chance your life on, Geoff.The team leader nodded in agreement. She is. Four more years and shell be the oldest

Slayer ever recorded, guys. And thats no accident.

Shes so damn good, why aint she workin for the Council? Karina queried.

Tell you what, Geoff replied, when this is over, and we bag those three and shes safe,Ill let you ask Buffy herself.

Karina frowned slightly at him.

The drive over to Giles apartment complex would have been pleasant for Geoff underother circumstances. The day developed bright and clear, and the June sunshine gave the town a

special luster, as if for the moment it could forget it played home to the Hellmouth. Geoff had

always liked Sunnydale, though he had only lived here the two years his Masters program had

required. But hed found it a nice town and a pleasant place to live, when he wasnt helping

Buffy slay some terrible unnatural beast. If hed had the freedom he would have indulgedhimself in a pleasant trip down memory lane. But thoughts of Buffy, and the stories she had told

him of Angelus, occupied his thoughts now, and he shook his head as he passed a silverVolkswagen Beetle issuing from the apartment complex. Stay in the here and now, Geoff. Buffys



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life may depend upon it. Yours too.He parked the van in a visitors spot and engaged the parking

brake, switching the engine off.

You might want to re-think your approach, John told him.

Geoff turned to face him. Whys that?

John pointed to the monitor. See that big black sedan three cars over? Big old American

job. windows tinted black? The Englishman considered the team leader a moment. ThatsSpikes car. Looks like he got here first. You sure you wanna take them all on by yourself?

Geoff sighed, rubbing his forehead. Gimme a minute to think this over.

Take your time, Karina told him. If theyre in there, everybodys dead anyway, one

way or the other, and the vamps aint goin anywhere in the sunshine.

*

Blessed be, Daisy greeted the newcomer to the shop. Oh, hello, Mr. Giles. Pleased to

see you, as always.Giles nodded. Hello, Daisy. I hope you still feel that way when Ive told you the purpose

of my visit.

The younger woman smiled wide. Mr. Giles, Im sure whatever reason you have is agood one. You have performed great acts of good for this town. She brushed her hair away fromher face. Or so Willow told me.

Giles adjusted his glasses. Willow is very kind in regards to those she likes.

Daisy nodded her head seriously. Willow overflows with kindness. Its a shame therearent more in theworld like her.

Thats certainly true,Giles agreed silently. Particularly at the moment, which is sort of

why I am here, he spoke.

Daisy regarded him. Im all ears.

Remember the other night at the reception, we had a short conversation about a rather

powerful magic item and the spell most usually associated it with it?

The Romany curse, Daisy provided. Of course. But I dont -- she stopped, her browneyes widening. You dont mean...

Giles nodded. Precisely, Daisy. Ive decided to go through with that spell, and Im going

to need your help.

I dont know what to say, Daisy admitted.

Its a very complex spell, Giles continued, and it will require a great deal of

concentration to cast correctly. I think Ive gathered up everything well need, all the ingredients

and such, and of course I have a copy of the spell itself.

Willow told me you had considerable knowledge of magic yourself, Daisy pointed out.

Couldnt you perform the spell?

Giles shook his head. Im not sure thats wise just now, he confessed. There are rather

a lot of distractions in my life at the moment, and Im afraid keeping track of all of them hasbecome rather a full time job. The Romany curse requires the utmost focus, and I dont know

that Im up to the challenge right now. Ordinarily, Id have a go at it, or Id ask Willow. But with

her not being here and all... Giles made eye contact with Daisy.

And it cant wait until she gets back?



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She shook her head and took in a long, shuddering breath. She withdrew an amulet from

inside her billowy blouse and held it up, examining it. The small stone in the middle pulsed witha faint green light.

Ive been bewitched! she told Giles.

*Near Cur Ditortuga

Though still fairly early in the morning, Willow was surprised that the natural pool had so

few visitors. She and Oz were still mostly on west coast time, so to her this felt more like stayingup than getting up, but it was nearly ten a.m. and they still had the place to themselves. Not that

she minded; crystal blue water so clear it almost hurt the eyes to look at it stretched out a fair

distance to either side of them, bordered by sand so white Willow had wondered when they had

first arrived if anyone came to bleach it when no one was looking.Oz slumbered not far away on a blanket. Neither of them could stand the direct tropical

sun, though Oz stood the heat better than she. They had rented a wide umbrella from their hotel,and Oz lay beneath that, snoring lightly. They had risen early, made love, and then headed outhere, only to find they had the place to themselves. So they had spread the blanket, had about

three bites of breakfast, and made love again. Willow had always entertained a small fantasy

about having a tryst on the beach, and she smiled with the realization that the real thing faroutdid the daydream. Between his werewolf-enhanced vascular system and his natural working

out in order to help out with Slaying-related matters, Oz had considerable stamina. Willow

blushed slightly as she realized that they had done little else since they had arrived, but the island

-- what little they had seen of it so far -- was so beautiful that it led their minds, and bodies,exactly where a honeymoon was supposed to. This was a great choice, she thought, taking a sip

of water and adjusting the wide straw hat she wore to try to keep the sun off her.

She moved beneath the shade of a few palm trees and sat with her toes in the warm lake,grinning as the water lapped at her feet. She glanced around again and saw no one, and checked

to make sure her husband still dozed. Then she removed her feet from the water and leaned over

the clear surface, the index finger of her right hand drawing a pattern on the top of the lake.

Vision true, vision free, reveal the world I wish to see. She concentrated on home, images of

her home, Ozs apartment, Giles place, and Xander and Buffys apartment coming to her inrapid succession. She opened her eyes and stared down at the pool; while most of it rippled

gently with a slight breeze, the small patch she had outlined lay undisturbed. Willow gazed at the

calm patch and spoke, Show me home.

She saw her mother sitting on the back patio reading a book, a glass of iced tea near her,

a notebook propped open at her elbow, her sloppy scrawl half-filling one of the pages. Willow

smiled and whispered, Show me Buffy and Xanders. Immediately the image flickered,changing to the dim apartment, messy as always. But no one was home. She shook her head and

addressed the puddle. Show me Giles place.

Both eyebrows popped up as she saw Angel sitting propped against the back of thecouch, discussing something with Payne. Giles seemed not to be present, and Willow leaned

closer and peered at the scene. Payne seemed to be enjoying herself; Angel was his usual stoic

self. Angel in Sunnydale? she wondered. Something big must be going on. He promised he



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wouldnt come back ever again. Willow toyed with a strand of hair and sighed. What could he

be doing there?

Whatcha doin? Oz asked from behind her.

Just peekin in on our friends, Willow admitted sheepishly. Look, she offered,turning to face Oz, Angels in Sunnydale.

Oz peered at the pool. All I see is water and sand, honey.Willow pointed at the window. You mean to tell me you cant see that?

Oz made a go at inspecting the water again, but to him it was just a very pretty lake.

Sorry, Will. What am I supposed to be seeing?

Willow turned back to the water. I opened a scrying window to Sunnydale. You know,just to see how everybodys doing and everything.

Oz nodded, seating himself next to her. Thatll come in handy in L.A. Really save on

those long distance bills.

Willow smiled and wrapped an arm around his. Payne and Angel are having adiscussion, she told him, gesturing at the magical window.

Will, all I see is water. You could be makin this up.

Willow frowned at him playfully behind her wide dark sunglasses.I mean, youre not, I know, but... he trailed off, leaning in to kiss her. Whenever

youre done playing voyeur, he teased her. Ill be up under the umbrella. Oz hopped up andstarted padding his way back across the warm sand.

Willow indulged herself a moment, watching Ozs behind sway back and forth in hislittle blue swim trunks, and then turned to the window. Im in a hurry, she announced quietly.

I have a hot date with that butt in about a minute. She leaned closer. Show me Buffy.The scene changed to display the Slayer on the floor in someones bedroom -- it certainly

wasnt hers -- with her legs up on a stable metal folding chair, her torso curling up and down as

she performed reps of sit-ups with a speed that Willow envied slightly but mostly foundinhuman. She watched for a moment or two, frowning slightly as Buffy continued on at her

accelerated rate, not even breaking a sweat. I bet shed barely have to slow down to have achild, Willow murmured.

Last one, Willow spoke. Wheres Xander, since hes not with Buffy? The windowshifted perspective, revealing a dimly lit locale. Xander carried a white plastic bag gingerly, as if

he were afraid of dropping it. He stopped abruptly, and Willow recognized the setting as the

extra storage areas that Giles had rented underneath one of the buildings in his apartmentcomplex. Xander reached in the bag, grimacing, and pulled out a small Tupperware container

full of a gelid, dark liquid. Hes bringing blood to Valeria, Willow said under her breath,

watching as Xander tentatively handled the container, placing it on the floor and sliding it toward

the gap at the bottom. Xanders being such a sissy, she chuckled. Its only blood, and Valeria

is harmless. I dont see why --

The portal followed Xander as he stood straight, and behind him Willow could see

someone bend over and retrieve the blood. She gasped as she watched Druscilla open thecontainer and drain it quickly. Willow blinked, her brow furrowing as she waved a hand over the

window, closing it, restoring the water to the same crystal clarity it had been before she had

worked her magic. She stood up and turned to follow in Ozs footsteps back to the wide

umbrella. Theyve captured Druscilla, she realized. I wonder why Buffy hasnt staked her yet.Or did Angel turn her in? As bait to try and trap Spike?



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But all thoughts of Sunnydale and its denizens vanished as she returned to her husband

and found him lounging face down on the blanket au naturel. He glanced up at her over hisshoulder, his wide smile matching hers. Willow knelt down next to him and ran a hand up his

back. I think this whole married thing is really working out, she mumbled, slipping off her hatand her sunglasses as she settled down next to Oz and kissed him hungrily.

*Sunnydale

Wide pale brown eyes blinked as the door opened and sunlight streamed in from above.

Here she comes now, with all of her little helpers, Druscilla mumbled, eyeing Buffy as theSlayer led the procession into the holding pen area. Druscilla moved to the front of her cage,

hands resting on the bars of the door. So lovely to see you again, dearie.

Shut up, Dru, Buffy told her, casting a dark glance her way.

Or else what? Druscilla teased her. If you had wanted me all dead and dusty, you

would have already split my poor heart with one of your nasty sharp sticks. She smiled hercrooked grin. You have plans for mommy, dont you, you mean little Slayer?

That could change so fast, Buffy threatened.

Actually, Druscilla, we didnt come here to see you, Giles explained, moving around

Payne to face the vampire witch. We came to see her.

Little Miss Pouty? Druscilla wondered. So contrite. So sorry for everything shes

done. Druscilla turned and hissed at Valeria, who shrank back.So afraid of everything, sheseven afraid of herself. Like a sickly little girl without her dollies.

Paynes dark eyes sparkled as she measured Druscilla. Im not surprised one such as you

doesnt understand the power of repentance.If all of youvalue it, then it must be worthless to me, Druscilla smiled. Look how far

bein sorry and glum has gotten her, and look how far my doin exactly what I want has gottenme. I dont see much of a difference in my lot and hers. Were both of us in these ho rrible nasty

cages. But mommy isnt all mopey about it.

Im not mopey, Valeria spoke up. These people are doing me a great favor. Im

grateful.

Hush, you! Druscilla rasped at her. You arent grateful, silly girl, youre afraid ofthem! Mommy can smell your fear, dearie. Dont think they cant as well, pretty one. The Slayer

feeds on it too, just like I do, and she --

Thats enough, Dru, Buffy cautioned her.

Druscilla considered her. Oh, I see now. Not willing to let me talk some sense into t he

little girlie? All ready to play mean scary Slayer and not give the little lost lamb a chance to --

That is enough, Druscilla, Payne spoke, using the voice. Giles felt a mild shock gothrough him but couldnt place it. The hair on Buffys arms raised up. But Druscilla stood mute,

suddenly.

Druscilla thrust a finger in Paynes direction. Her jaw worked back and forth, but nosound issued from her mouth. She looked up at Payne with some concern on her face, and fear;

then the vampires features shifted as she revealed her hunting face. She rushed the bars,

slamming against them, arms outstretched, but she couldnt reach the tall sorceress.

Payne? Giles asked.



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She turned to face him. I cast a small spell to keep her quiet. Itll wear off in a little

while. But it should give us some peace while we talk to the repentant one.

Valeria, Giles provided.

Payne raised an eyebrow as she looked at the blonde vampire. Indeed, she spoke,nodding. And you want your soul returned to you even though youhouse a demon?

Yes, maam, Valeria answered her. Her brown eyes met Paynes.Rupert, Payne offered, I can perform the spell if you want.

You can? Giles replied.

Payne nodded, her eyes locked on Valerias. Assuming you have an Orb of Thessalia.

Giles did a double take behind Paynes back, which Buffy noticed. She started to speakup but Giles held up a hand to quiet her. Youre familiar with the Romany curse? he

questioned.

Payne nodded, still watching Valeria. Ive heard of it. But I know you have a copy of it.

You restored Angels soul with it, didnt you?

Actually, Willow did, Giles admitted. But I still have a copy of it, yes.

Druscilla fumed silently, gripping the bars of her cage.

Then if you get me the ingredients, I can do the spell. Payne turned away from Valeria.Buffy glanced over at Giles.

Ill see what I can do, he told her.

What part of the spell do you need me for? Valeria asked.

Payne turned to face her again, a look of deathly anger on her face.

What was that, Valeria? Giles urged her.

Payne forced herself to smile. To give you back your soul, all you have to do is be close

enough to where we cast the spell, Payne explained, silently willing the vampire to shut up.Which given your current lodgingarrangements shouldnt be any big deal.

The other spell, I mean, Valeria mentioned. The one you talked about that will create

the werewolf army that will wipe out all the vampires?

Payne scowled at Valeria, saying nothing. Druscilla, still in hunting face, pointed

emphatically at Payne.

How do you know about that? Giles asked the blonde vampire.

She must have overheard one of us talking, Payne suggested.

Or maybe someone hasnt been only talking to Faith behind our backs, Buffy

theorized. Maybe Payne here has been trying to stack the deck.

The tall witch turned on the Slayer. What do you mean?

Well, theres the whole talking to Faith thing -- thats skeevy enough as it is. But then

you practically seduce Giles, and now youre down here spilling our plans to vampires? Buffy

took a step forward, staring up at Payne. What kind of game are you playing?

She did not try to seduce me, Buffy, Giles objected.

Giles, we just saw her shut Druscilla merely by telling her to. Who knows what kind of

voodoo she worked on you last night?

Buffy! Giles exclaimed.

Payne set her hands on her hips. You think this spell is easy? You think altering an age -

old decision made by the fates is childs play?

Could we continue this discussion elsewhere? Giles suggested.



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Im not sayin its easy, Buffy concurred. But what I am saying is that you could tell

us once in a while whats going on, rather than sneaking around behind our backs and setting up

all these little deals with people.

You have no idea what youre talking about, Buffy, Payne growled.

I know youre not on the level with us, lady. She pointed a finger at Payne. So you

better come clean with us right now, or else--Or else what? Payne wondered. Youll use your prodigious Slayer strength to beat me

to a pulp? Is that your only way to solve problems? Hit things?

Buffy glared at Payne. You know what, Payne? Fu--

Buffy, Giles interrupted. No. Dont.

The Slayer turned on him. You cant possibly be taking her side in this Giles. No way.

No way.

Im not taking anyones side, Buffy. Were all supposed to be on the same side. What Iam doing is putting a stop to this before it escalates out of control. Now I suggest we adjourn to

my apartment where we can discuss all of this with cooler heads. And not in front of Druscilla,

who have a vested interest learning more about our plans.

Payne nodded at Giles suggestion. Im game if you are, she addressed Buffy.Works for me, the Slayer spat.

Fine, Giles spoke. Now, if you would... he gestured toward the door, and Buffy madeher way out of the storage area. Payne followed her.

Giles turned to Valeria and told her, I have made arrangements to restore your soul.Whatever happens between these two, rest assured that will come to pass. You deserve that

much.

Thank you, she responded, her eyes following him as he left.

Druscilla closed her eyes and relaxed, calming her mind, slowly transitioning her face

back to normal. She wrapped her arms around herself and mumbled under her breath, an oldlanguage Valeria did not understand. For a long moment Druscilla stood stock still; then she

raised her head and gazed with wide brown eyes at the door.

Its going to take a lot more than the Voice to keep mommy quiet, she sneered.

*Hot water spilled down on Payne; she leaned back and let it soak her hair, a long wet

curtain that trailed down her back. That was way too close, she realized as she shifted her stance

so the water caressed her legs. That stupid vampire bitch almost ruined everything. And Buffy!

Youd think a Slayer would be less naive. What Im doing will help them, she murmured,gathering her hair in one hand and slicking it away from her face.

She closed her eyes and concentrated; one homunculus sat in his hiding place, in a thicket

of trees across the street from Giles apartment. He knew to alert her if he saw anything unusual,

but so far the vampires of Sunnydale hadnt seen fit to mount an attack on them. With Spike on

the loose, that will change. Payne remained confident that the homunculus would give them

enough of a warning so they would not be caught flatfooted when said attack came.

The second one feasted on a treat of dead robins and their eggs, and Payne gagged as the

taste of yolk and bird meat overtook her taste buds. She turned and rinsed out her mouth withwater, spitting it down the drain. Okay, so there are a few drawbacks to the link, granted. You

knew that when you created them. She took another long gulp and swished the water around in



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her mouth, trying to rinse out the taste. She concentrated again; the homunculus had kept his

perch in a thickly leafed tree across the street from Buffy and Xanders apartment. They werentthere, and she knew that; they were downstairs. But it never hurt to keep the Slayer under

surveillance, especially now. Barely got out of that conversation, Payne knew, and Im not

looking forward to the follow-up, either.

She moved forward, letting the water cascade down her torso, sighing as the warmthsoaked her skin and relaxed her. She concentrated anew, contacting the third homunculus in the

crawl space above the room adjacent to Faiths at the run-down hotel. Bored, he carved pictures

with his nail in the support beam between the ceiling of the room and the roof of the building.But as she contacted him, he hopped into action and made his way down between the wall

separating Faiths room and this one, which remained conveniently vacant for the time being. He

emerged in the closet and double-checked to make sure the room remained empty; finding it sohe moved to the door. Payne had previously instructed him to rig the lock on the door so that he

could more easily open it; he did so and scampered down the hall, knocking on Faiths door. Sheseemed a giantess when she opened it, and Payne could tell that the dark Slayer was less than

thrilled to find the diminutive imp had come calling. Least its better than the toilet, she

sniped. He hopped into her room. Faith took a seat on the bed, and he hovered up so that he waseye level. Feels good to fly, Payne heard him think.

Faith, I need you to do something for me, she told the young woman.

Faith gave her a bored look. What, now this little creepy thing is gonna give me orders?

Faith, its me, Payne. This is very important. Buffy is on the verge of ruining

everything.

Faith sneered. That sounds about right. Bitch.

I need you to go to the magic shop, the Dragons Cove, and pick up a few things for me.Theyre watching me like a hawk, and I cant get there right now.

The dark Slayer frowned. Has to be right away? You cant wait a couple of days?

No. If Spike manages to rally the vampires, or if Buffy gets out of control, I may need

this stuff on hand. And I just cant get away from them now. Theres noway.

Okay, Faith said. I got it covered. Whatcha need?

Thessalian incense, harcutus weed, a half dozen consecrated bones, two --

Whoa! Faith held her hands up. Slow down! You think Im gonna remember thisshit?

Payne closed her eyes, for a second focusing on the warm water, letting her angerdissipate. Faith is not the kind of girl you can blow off steam at, and I need her right now. Thenget a pencil and paper and take notes. Its very important, Faith. This whole thing could go south

if you mess this up.

Since when is any of this shit my fault? Faith growled.

Its not, not any of it. But youre the only one who can fix it, Faith. I need you for that.

The slater looked skeptical, but rooted around the motel room until she found a pen. The

place offered no free pads of paper like the better hotels; she settled for tearing the front-page out

of the Bible. Fire away.

Thessalian incense, Payne began. When she saw that Faith had stopped writing, shecontinued. Harcutus weed. A whole bag. She recited the rest of the list and added three extra

items for good measure in case the woman at the shop realized what type of ingredients Faithwas buying. Unlikely, but possible.



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Faith folded the page in half and slipped it into the pocket of her leather jeans. Howm I

supposed to pay for all this shit? This has gotta cost some serious dough. I dont have that kind

of money. I dont have any kind of money.

Payne shook her head.I have to do everything myself. Everything.

Call the Dragons Cove and see what time they close. Ill wait.

Payne rinsed her hair out again while Faith made the call, splitting her focus between thelittle homunculus and the comforting water. Nine p.m. the young woman relayed.

Thatll give us enough time, barely. Ill get my ATM card to you, after dark, when no

one can see the homunculi. She paused. Dont screw this up Faith. And dont go for a joy ride

on my bank account. Its not that deep.

Dont worry, Ill get your hocus pocus crap. I dont know how you re gonna get your

hands on it, though.

Payne sighed. Ill figure something out. God, that Buffy is a pain in the ass.

Faith fell back on the bed, laughing. You got that right.

*

Giles and Payne had left after an aborted second conversation; both the Slayer and thewitch were too angry to do anything more constructive than growl at one another, and Giles had

decided some distance was best for the both of them. Xander had to work a later shift that

evening, just a few hours, and he promised he would be back as soon as he could. He departed

with an overt display of affection toward Buffy, taking her in his arms and kissing her, and thenwaving to Angel as he walked out the door.

After a long moment, Buffy turned to Angel sheepishly.

You and Xander,huh? he murmured.

Buffy nodded. Yeah. She looked at Angel. I thought you said you were never ever

coming to see me again.

He picked at a thread on the couch. I couldnt avoid this, Buffy. Kate told us the witch --

Payne -- was here. And Dru had seen her talking to a Slayer. Though it turns out that was really

Faith.

Druscilla saw that? Buffy queried.

Angel pointed to his eyes. Magic saw, like a vision. Not saw saw.

Buffy nodded. Its good to see you, she ventured.

Angel allowed himself a gentle smile.Its like being able to go out in the sunshine seeing

you. Its like finally feeling warm again. Its as if Ive come back from the dead, seeing you.

Good to see you, too, he allowed himself to admit. You seem happy.

With Xander, you mean, she filled in.

He nodded.

Im pretty happy, yeah, she spoke, looking down at the floor. Its not exactly easy tofind someone who can deal with who and what I am and the whole slaying gig, and all this

history, and...

She stopped as she saw Angel chuckling. What?

He looked at her, his dark eyes going warm, and in that instant Buffy knew that Angelwas still as in love with her as he had ever been. Her heart pounded in her chest. Oh, shit...



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You dont have to explain it to me, he said. Im a vampire. How hard dyou think it is

for me to find someone who can deal with all the problems I bring to the table in a relationship?

He grinned at her. You know the drill.

She laughed softly. I sure do. They locked eyes for a moment, and then Angel looked

away.

I wont be here that long, he continued. I think I ought to stick around until Paynedoes her spell, just in case. Then after that, Ill make myself scarce. And I wont come backagain, if I can manage it.

You dont have to stay away, Buffy told him.

Angel nodded. Yes I do, he told her quietly. Now more than ever.

I think you ought to stay here until that Watcher hunter team goes away too, Buffy

offered.

You know about that? he queried.

Buffy nodded. Pike called. The Hunters were coming to L.A. to look for Spike. Pike

gave us that heads up -- thats how we knew you were coming. Thats how me and Xander

knew to set up that trap.

Angel rubbed his chest. Yeah, he packs a mean wallop with that stun gun.Did he apologize? Buffy inquired. I told him to apologize.

Angel chuckled. He apologized. He told me you told him to apologize, so there he was.

The vampire crossed his arms. Hes datin you and hes still resents me.

Buffy smiled slightly. Thats because he loves me, she told him. I mean, he alwaysdid, I guess, but once I sorta returned the feeling... she shrugged. Hes basically total

protection guy. Even though I dont need it and he knows it. But its still kinda sweet.Angel forced himself to nod. Thats...nice.

Buffy blinked; Angel looked like hed been hit with a ton of bricks. Im sorry, she

murmured.

You dont have to be, he assured her.

But I am, she reiterated. I dont want to hurt you, Angel.

He smiled, bittersweet. You cant help it, he admitted. Its okay. I knew this day

would come.Buffy hugged herself, not knowing what to say.

I stayed away for your sake, Buffy, not for mine. And now I see I made the right

decision.

Angel, she whispered, but he held up a hand.

We couldnt ever be together, and you know that. So do I. But I wasnt gonna stand in

the way of you being happy, and Im glad I didnt. You deserve that much, Buffy. The world

asks a lot of you. Its good to see its giving something back.

She blinked back a tear. But what about you? Its not fair that you havent foundsomeone else.

He tilted his head. No, I guess it isnt. But its not like thats gonna happen anyway,

so...

Dont say that, Buffy told him. Dont.

He shrugged, looking into her eyes. Its true, Buffy. Im not saying that to make you feel

bad -- I wouldnt do that --but its true. He stood straighter. But I get to see you happy, and

know that someone is watching out for you, that somebody loves you. Thats a good thing.

Buffy let out a long breath, trying not to cry. I dont know what to say, she muttered.



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Tell me you love him, Angel said simply. Tell me you love him and all of this is okay.

I can live with all of it, no problem. Just tell me you love him.Buffy took a deep breath, trying to steady herself, to dull the pain that threatened to

overtake her. I love him, she whispered. I do.

Angel nodded slowly, the full weight of it hitting him, that although he was the one who

had made sure that door would stay shut between them, it was irrevocably closed. Buffy hadmoved on with her life, and had finally given her heart to another.

And isnt that exactly what you wanted for her?

*Santa Monica

Maybe we should go down there, Shelley offered.

Rachel tsked. Angel would call if he needed our help. Always has before.

Actually, Shelley corrected, Cordelia always called before. How often have we heard

from Angel since she stopped working for him? We hear from Kate more than we hear fromhim.

Im sure hes fine, Rachel spoke. You warned him in time to get out of town, didntyou?

Shelley nodded.

Then whats the worry? He split before the Hunters got to him. Rachel frowned. I

dont think I like it that theyre hornin in on our action, though.

Hey, Pike cut in, entering the room. The goal is to hunt vampires, not grab the glory.

The Watchers Council may not always operate the way we want them to, but theyre in the same

business we are.

Rachel smirked. Shell, I think you married a company man.

Shelley shook her head. Any news?Pike nodded. Just in off the site. Kerwins team is in Sunnydale. They found Spikes

car.

Where? Rachel wondered.

Parking lot at Giles apartment complex.

No shit! Rachel blurted.

Shelley frowned. That isnt good.

Pike shook his head in agreement. I think we better call Giles and let him know his place

is being cased by five killers, none of whom give a damn about him. Theyre just there to carryout their mission.

Correct me if Im wrong, but so far this team of Hunters hasnt exactly done anything to

anybody, right? I mean, theyre just playin catch-up ball.Your point? Pike asked Rachel.

Do we really need to worry about them? she queried. They couldnt find Spike in

time, they couldnt find Angel -- maybe these guys are about as useful as that Wesley dude.

Maybe were gettin too worried over this. And maybe theyre just outclassed by Buffy and

Angel and Xander and everybody else down there. She sat back in her chair. Maybe we justoughtta let em get their asses kicked.

Which would be easier if we warn Giles theyre there, Shelley argued.



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Sure, Rachel snorted. You guys are the brains. Dont listen to me.

We listen to you, Pike replied. We just dont always agree with you, thats all. He

flipped open his cell phone and told it, Giles.

In a moment the other end picked up. Hello?

Buffy? Pike greeted her.

Pike? she asked. Whats up?Is Giles there?

He went out for a little bit. With Payne. Before I could rip her a new one. Buffy

paused. Whats up, Pike?

Buff, theres a Council team of hunters in Sunnydale.

Is it the same guys who were lookin for Spike in L.A.? Buffy queried, looking at

Angel.

Pike paused a second. Yup.

So they know Spikes here, she murmured.

They cant know exactly where he is, Angel ventured. Or else they would have killed

him by now.

Maybe we should let them, Buffy suggested.Buff, theyre casin Giles apartment. They found Spikes car. Giles is mentioned in the

report specifically by name. Which means theres a good chance theyre watchin you right

now.

Son of a bitch, Buffy hissed. Angel raised an eyebrow. Theyre spying on us rightnow, Buffy explained to him. Should we take em out?

Theyve got guns, Buff, Pike explained. These guys aint there for a picnic, theyre in

town to kill. Sounds to me like you got Angel safe. Maybe youghtta hand over Spike andDruscilla to these guys, call it a night.

Buffy shook her head. Oh, no no no. Spike, I dont know where he is, he got away fromme. But Dru is mine. She killed Kendra. She tortured Giles, she tortured Angel.... she has done

way too much shit to me and mine to let her just walk away with some Council losers wholl justbotch the job and let her go free. How many times did they try to take Faith back to England, and

they kept screwing that up? No way am I gonna hand her over to the Council, Pike. Especially

knowing Spike is chomping at the bit every second of every minute to get her back.

Your choice, Pike told her. Youre the Slayer. I just wanted to warn you, you got

company, and offer our help. You need anything we can give you, give us a holler.

Buffy reigned in her anger and sighed. I was wrong about you joining the Council, Pike.Youve been nothin but a big help and I really appreciate it. I know I have some issues with

Spike -- and Dru -- but Ill work it out somehow. She glanced at Angel. Thanks for stayin

loyal.

Pike grinned. Hey, I knew the chosen guy long time before I knew the Council, he toldher. I know who to back in a fight. Never bet against Buffy.

She smiled. Ill be in touch, Pike. Thanks again. She hung up.

Pikes betraying the Watchers Council to you? Angel queried.

Buffy gave him a look. Betrayals such an ugly word, she remarked. Im gonna gotake a stroll on the front lawn and see if I cant dig up an idiot Englishman or two to hold as a

hostage against the others.

Angel gave her a half grin. You want some help?



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She shook her head. Nah, this one I can handle on my own. Besides, I dont want them

shootin you thinkin youre Spike. I dont wanna have to kill anybody or anything.

Angel shrugged. Okay, Ill wait here.

Buffy smiled. Probably better with the sun out and all, she teased him. Wont take aminute. She moved to reach for the knob when suddenly a knock sounded. Frowning slightly,

she opened the door.Geoff, she muttered, surprised.

*Sunnydale

Xander parked his car, waiting until it finished coughing to get out, and stepped up on the

curb. Right on time, he congratulated himself, checking the clock on the bank at the end of the

street as it flashed 8:58.Dragons Cove closes at nine, I take Daisy over to Giles, we give some

vampire chick her soul, yadda yadda yadda, maybe Buffy and I can celebrate later.

He started moving toward the store. Lights are still on, thats not a good sign. Shes notready to go yet. Which means waiting. And why am I driving Miss Daisy over to Giles? Oh,

yeah, thats right, she doesnt have a car. Or believe in cars, or whatever it is. As he opened the

door to the magic shop, he muttered to himself, Which probably means Ill have to drive herhome when were done, which means that me and Buffy wont get a chance to... He ceased his

thinking aloud as he stepped into the store, letting the door close behind him.

Blessed be. With you in just a minute, Daisy called out.

No rush, Xander responded; some shapely little dark-haired witch waited at the

counter, fingers tapping on the wooden shelf as Daisy totaled up her order. Xander shrugged andmoved over toward the small exhibit of Egyptian items for sale, which seemed less weird to him

than eye of newt or colon of turkey or whatever these witch types liked to brew up their spells

with. He peered at a small statue with a womans body and a cats head, glad nothing like thathad ever attacked Sunnydale. Yet, he commented softly.

There you go, Ms. Hollis, Daisy spoke. Thanks for shopping the Dragons Cove, andwe hope to see you again soon.

Sure, Ms. Hollis answered.Xander froze at the sound of her voice, turning slowly so he could look at the cash

register area. No doubt about it, the woman pocketing the credit card was none other than Faith.

What do we have here? he asked, slipping into the aisle between the two women and

the doorway. You suddenly gone Wicca on us, Faith?

Faith swore under her breath. Xander.

Who are the supplies for? he queried. Before she could answer, Xander held up a hand.

No, wait, let me guess. They wouldnt happen to be for Payne, would they? I seem to rememberthat her last name is Hollis. Coincidence? I dont think so.

Faith set the bag back down on the counter. If you have any sense, Xander, youllpretend you didnt see me and get out of the way. Bs not here to back you up and I could so kick

your ass.

Xander shook his head. I cant let you go until you tell me whats goin on.

Faith sighed. I dont have time for this, she said, pushing up the sleeves on her jacket.

Get out of the way orIll put you through the front window.



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Xander swallowed hard. Wouldnt it be easier just to tell me whats goin on, Faith? We

already know Paynes talkin to you. Angel saw the two of you last night. So you dont need tobeat me up to protect that secret.

Faith paused. She slid a length of dark mane behind her ear and looked at him. You guyshave no idea whats gonna happen, she told him after a moment. Theres gonna be a war,

Xander. The vamps are gonna be on the ropes, fightin for survival. Not all sneaky like they arenow. Theyre gonna get a major piece of their ass handed to them when all this shit with thewerewolves comes down. And theyre gonna be lookin for a fight all the time.

Sounds perfect for you, he murmured. You get to slay vampires twenty-four-seven.

Better believe it, Faith agreed. Its all gonna come down to who has that killer instinct,thats who gets to survive here. When the vamps start an all-out war -- and they will, you know it

-- the Hellmouths gonna be actioncentral. No room for the weak.

Is that a warning? Xander asked.

Faith shrugged. Does B have what it takes? Do you? You guys gonna be able to go at itall the time? Huntin vampires around the clock, doesnt matter what it costs?

Xander shook his head. You live in a pretty scary world, Faith, he told her.

She lunged at him; Xander tried to dodge, but Faith proved too quick and they fell in atangle on the floor. She pinned him to the ground quickly, her hands on his wrists. He struggled,

but Faith was far stronger. This feels kinda familiar, doesnt it? Faith hissed at him, smirking,

as she gyrated her pelvis back and forth over his. Ya miss me, Xander? Or are ya still all puppy

dog over B?

Get off me, Xander growled.

When I want to, Faith retorted, leaning in to kiss him. He turned his head away and shesettled for biting him on the cheek.

Ow! he exclaimed.

Its a real bitch, aint it? Faith spat at him. Love hurts, doesnt it?

You dont even know what love is, Xander responded.

Faith released one of his hands and slapped him across the face. Whose fault is that? Didyou ever try to teach me? Any of you?

I did, Xander reminded her. You tried to kill me. I reached out to you and you tried to

choke me to death.

Faith recoiled as if he had slammed her in the gut. You did try, didnt you?

Yeah, he breathed.She considered him a moment, lying helpless beneath her on the floor. She released his

other arm and hopped up on her feet. She nodded, looking down at him. Okay, she spoke after

a long moment. Okay, you did try. She slipped her hands in her pockets. Get up. Cautiously Xander climbed to his feet, rubbing his cheek.

Faiths dark eyes met his. Now were even. You tried to help me, and I let you go whenI could have played lets break a rib. So were even, got it?

Xander exhaled, nodding. Faith...

She looked at him. What? You gonna tell me it doesnt have to be like this? That I dont

have to be alone?

He shrugged sheepishly. Something like that. Look -- Im not good with the whole

words thing and you know it. But you dont have to be alone all the time. You really dont.

Faith stared at him. Whos gonna keep me company? You? You gonna leave Buffyslittle group for me?



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Or you could join us, Xander countered.

Faith shook her head. I dont play well with others. In case you hadnt noticed.

Xander took a step forward. You could change that, he told her.

Faith stepped back. Yeah, like you guys would just open your arms and take me in.

Weforgave Angel, Xander reminded her. If we can manage it for him, we can swing

it for you.The dark Slayer shook her head, biting her lip in indecision. She looked away and then

back at Xander, who still focused all of his attention on her. I gotta go, she managed after a

minute. I gotta get this shit to Payne.

Im headed back to Giles place, he told her. Gotta take Daisy there. Be happy to giveyou a ride.

Faith reared back as if hed stung her. She gestured to the paper sack on the counter.Just

take the shit with you, okay?

Faith... Xander started, but she turned and fled the magic shop, the door swinging wideon its hinges as she burst outside and ran off into the night.

Are you all right? Daisy asked, coming out from behind the counter to examine the

giant red mark on Xanders cheek.I will be, he told her.I hope she is.

Let me just lock up and well go, Daisy told him. She turned to set the alarm but came

back to him. You people all lead very interesting lives, dont you?

You can say that again, Xander grunted.

*What are you doing here? Buffy asked Geoff. Last I heard you were at Cambridge

doing some kind of doctor work.Geoff gave her a slight grin. Thank God shes okay. Angelus hasnt gotten here -- yet,

anyway. Working on my doctorate, actually, he filled her in. Im just in town for a short visit.Got a few things to take care of and then Im back across the pond. He looked over at Angel.

Whos your friend?

Buffy glanced back at the handsome vampire. Thats right, you two guys never met.Angel, this is Geoff Kerwin. Geoff, this is Angel. Buffy turned toward her old love. I went to

college with him for a while. He was getting his masters at UC Sunnydale.When she turned back toward Geoff, he pointed an odd-looking pistol at Angel. Buffy,

step away from him.

Geoff, what the hell are you doing?

Geoffs eyes never left Angel. Hes not what he seems, Buffy. Hes in league with Spike

and Druscilla. He is not Angel. Geoff flicked his eyes to Buffy.Not any more.

Of course he is, Buffy responded, moving directly between the two men. Geoff, he led

Spike and Dru here so I could trap them. Hes on our side. One of the good guys. Trust me on

this.

Geoff hesitated. Youre sure?

Buffy nodded. Im positive. She frowned at him. Now put away the gun and play nice.

Angel wont bite you.Geoff paused for a moment, then lowered the gun, slipping it back in the waistline of his

pants, under his sweater. Angel moved toward him and shook his hand; Geoff noticed the



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vampires flesh was room temperature, as always. Sorry about that, Geoff murmured. Just

thought...

Never mind, Angel spoke. You thought you were doin the right thing, you were

lookin out for Buffy, and you backed down before anyone got hurt. No big deal.

Geoff shrugged, embarrassed. You know, Buffy told me quite a lot about you while we

were dating. He folded his arms, nodding. Pleasure to finally meet you, really. Just glad yourestill you.

Not that Im not happy to see you, Buffy spoke to Geoff, because of course I am. But

were kind of in the middle of something here. She looked at Angel, who studied Geoff, and

then looked back at the young man. Not me and Angel something, but just... somethingsomething.

Trouble with the vampires again? Geoff asked. The unsouled variety, of course.

Buffy nodded. Something like that.

Maybe I can help you, Geoff offered.

Thats really sweet, Buffy admitted, but this is a little more complicated than some of

the stuff you used to help us out with. Not that I dont appreciate the offer, because, you know,

of course I do. But this is a little unusual, and--Hes with the Hunters, Angel announced.

Buffy swirled around to face Angel. What?Angel jutted his chin in Geoffs direction. Him. Hes with them. The ones they sent here

to kill Spike and Druscilla.

The Slayer narrowed her eyes as she turned to face her ex-boyfriend. Is he right?

Geoff nodded. Never could lie to you, Buffy. He is.

And you were gonna tell me when? she charged him.

I was coming round to it, he reminded her. I didnt think it was a smart move to just

blurt it right out, thinking you were, you know, in the same room with a killer and all.

Good call on staying quiet, Angel agreed. Pretty bad miss on the killer part, though.

So what do you want me to do? Buffy asked. Just hand Druscilla over to you?

Just Druscilla? he wondered.

Spike got away, Buffy informed him.

I see, Geoff remarked. He gazed at Buffy. Can you give m e a good reason why you

should be protecting Druscilla?

A good reason? Buffy repeated. How about I captured her and spent the whole night

crawling around in scummy sewers looking for her boyfriend?

Geoff started to respond when keys jingled, and Giles let himself and Payne into the

apartment. Good Lord, Giles greeted them. Geoff Kerwin, what on Earth are you doing

here? He extended a hand.

Geoff took it. I was asking Buffy a favor. Nice to see you, Mr. Giles.

Geoff works for the Council now, Buffy informed Giles. Hes part of a team of

vampire hunters sent here to kill Spike and Dru.

Actually, Im their leader, Geoff clarified.

Payne moved from behind Giles. You cant kill her. I need her.

And you would be? Geoff wondered.

PayneHollis. I need them for a spell Im going to be casting soon.

Geoff glanced at Giles, then back at Payne. A spell?



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Payne wants to give all the werewolves sentience and create an army of vampire

hunters, Angel explained. Just like the Watchers are doing.

What would you have them do? Geoff responded. Buffy quit them -- and good for

you, Buffy -- and Faith is hard as hell to find. And even if we could locate her, we probably

wouldnt be able to get her to play nice anyway, from what Buffys told me about her. We have

no Slayers and no hope of ever having one. So we have to do something. He turned to Payne.What do you need them for?

Payne glanced at Giles, and then Angel. In order to make sure the spell took effect, the

werewolves have to hunt and kill a vampire after its completed. She shrugged. A little

gruesome, maybe, but thats why were casting the spell in the first place.

Just how many werewolves are going to be involved in this spell? Geoff asked.

Just two, Giles answered him.

Geoff addressed Payne. Couldnt you use any vampire? Does it make a difference if its

Druscilla?

Not really, I suppose, Payne admitted.

So you could use any vampire, right? Geoff pressed.

In theory, Payne conceded.Woah, Buffy said, moving between them and holding up her hands. A few facts here

to ground everybody, okay? First off, I captured Dru -- okay, Xander helped me, but since hes

not here, that means I get to say what happens to her. And I say shes not gonna get offed bysome Watchers Council hit squad. And Im not lettin her go in any case. Shes safe where sheis, and we dont have to worry shell do something stupid like go after my mom or anything.

But Spike is also aware of my plan to convert all the werewolves, Payne told him. Ifsomehow Druscilla escapes your clutches and gets free, that would very greatly complicate

things for me, and the entire group here, having to deal with not only a potential vampiric army,

but an actively angry witch, when I cast the spell. I wont have the time to deal with whatever

Druscilla summons up. In her own crude way shes a very effective sorceress, and since we have

her locked up, I agree its better to keep her that way.

At that moment a knock sounded on the door.

Giles opened it to reveal Xander, holding a large paper bag; Daisy stood next to him.

Hey everybody, I-- Xander stopped. Wow. Gangs all here. Geoff, long time no see.Whats in the bag? Giles queried.

Howve you been, Xander? Geoff wanted to know.

Who gave you a hickey on your cheek? Buffy demanded.

This is for you, Xander told Payne, handing her the bag. Stuff she wanted from the

magic store. Ill get back to that. He held up a hand. Geoff, good to see you too, unless youre

involved with whatsgoing on in some way. Before the older man could answer, Xander turned

to Buffy. Faith.

Faith gave you a hickey? Buffy clarified, her voice rising.

She would have given him a lot more if he wasnt fast on his feet, Daisy offered.Xander gave her a pleading look. Whoops, that didnt come out right.

Xander shook his head. So dont need help getting in trouble on this one.

What were you doing with Faith that hickeys were involved? Buffy wondered.

Trying not to get my ass kicked, he told her.

How hard were you trying? Buffy asked, hands on her hips.



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Xander put up a hand. I think the bigger question is, why was Faith at the Dragons

Cove buying supplies for Payne with Paynes credit card? He fished it out of his pocket andhanded it to her. Here ya go.

Buffy swung her accusing hazel eyes from Xander -- for the moment -- to Payne. Hesright. That is a bigger question. What gives?

Payne set the bag of supplies down on the coffee table. Given the fact that you and I hadjust had it out earlier, and I was being assigned a chaperone, she glanced at Giles, I decided tohave someone else run that errand for me. Someone who trusted me and my motives and

wouldnt question everything I did. She folded her arms. Do you treat every newcom er to your

little circle like this?

Just the ones who have pow-wows with our psycho enemies, Buffy told her.

Faith is not your enemy, Buffy. I can tell you two dont see eye to eye, but she is not onthe opposite side here. If anything, she could be a very important ally.

Xander nodded. Thats what she told Faith, he agreed. Faith seems to think that oncethe spell with the whole wolf thing is done, that its gonna be a big vampire-werewolf war. He

looked at Buffy. And she was sportin a major happy about that one.

Thats how you got to her, Angel commented. You promised her unlimitedopportunity for violence.

She has that now, Payne argued. She can just funnel it in more productive ways with

an army of werewolves to help her.

Why didnt you just tell us about this? Giles inquired. Your involvement with Faith.Why hide it?

Do you know whats going on? Geoff asked Daisy.

Not entirely, Daisy replied.

Good, Geoff told her. Thought it was just me.

Payne told Giles, Because Im aware you all have issues with Faith. But we will need

her help with this spell. Payne scooped some hair away from her face. All right, she

conceded, I dont know about need, maybe, but it couldnt hurt to have her there. Spike will nodoubt try to stop us -- especially with Druscilla in our clutches -- and we will likely find

ourselves up against stiff resistance. Better to have that extra pair of hands there, dont you

think?

Silence met the question for a moment. Then Buffy spoke, I dont like it.

Of course you dont, Payne concurred. You distrust Faith.

You should too! Buffy pointed out.

Trust me, Buffy, its temporary, Payne promised. Once the spell is complete, youll

never see Faith again. Shell be too busy, and there will be so many werewolves rushing to help

her that you and Xander can retire or take a vacation or whatever you like.

You and Xander? Geoff repeated, looking at the both of them. Oh, I get it.

Buffy let out a long breath, blowing a tendril of hair up. Okay, fine. Faith gets to stand

guard during the spell. But you keep her the hell away from me until then, you got it?

I got it, Payne assured her.

And you stay away from her too, Buffy shot at Xander.

Yeah, like I wanna be near Faith. Thatll be hard.

Buffy glared at him, then relaxed slightly. Come here, she said, embracing him.

Geoff moved over to Giles. So I take it youre not going to release Druscilla into thecare of the Council?



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Giles furrowed his brow. Oh, heavens no. Oz and Jordi will tear her to shreds after the

spell. You heard Payne -- we have to verify the spells effect. I cant think of a more fitting

ending for her, who has caused so many so much grief, and here shell play a part in helpingsomething truly beneficial to occur.

Daisy approached Giles. Do we have everything we need for the spell? she inquired.

Youre going to do it tonight? Geoff wondered.Not without Oz, were not, Giles informed him. No, this is a different spell. He gaveGeoff a thoughtful look. In fact, why dont you stay on and observe? It might prove most

illuminating.

*Daisy started as Giles handed her the Orb of Thessalia.

Are you alright? he asked, touching her shoulder.

She nodded. I think so, she told him. Just that feeling a gain, like I had at the magic

store.

That someone had bewitched you, Giles murmured.Daisy nodded.

Ill try to help you with that tomorrow. For now, lets just concentrate on the restoration

spell, shall we?

The young witch nodded and placed the orb gently in the center of a sacred circle of

candles, resting it on a small red pillow. The Orb glowed dimly, a flash of energy zipping across

its surface every now and then, as if it were aware it were about to be sacrificed in a ritual.Valeria sat a dozen feet away from her, chained up. Druscilla had screamed at them as

they had led Valeria out of her cell. Buffy stood less than five feet from the chained vampire, a

stake in her hand. Payne, Geoff, and Giles stood by the door, and Xander stood a few feet awayfrom them, a super-soaker slung casually from his shoulder. A small brazier burned incense and

a blend of herbs, a not altogether pleasant aroma. Angel watched the proceedings from his spot

by the door, making sure no one interrupted them.

Daisy sat down, cross-legged, her palms resting face up on her knees. She leaned forwardand looked at the piece of paper in front of her; Giles had printed her a copy of the spell in large,

clear lettering so that she would have no trouble reading it. At Daisy s request he had printed it

in the original language. Though she harbored doubts about her ability to correctly pronounceeverything, she had explained that translating a spell could possibly dilute its effects, which they

obviously didnt desire.

Nici mort, Daisy intoned. Nici al finitei, Te invoc, spirital trecerii. Reda trupuli ce

separa omul de animal!

Angel shivered as the magic began; the Orb brightened, and the candles of the sacred

circle flickered in unison.I hope this is what you want, Valeria, he thought.

Quod perditium est, invenietur. Invenietur trupuli!All of them remained silent as Daisy drew a deep breath and continued.

Nici mort, nici al finitei, utrespur aceastui. Utrespur sufletul.

The Orb blazed up, filling the room with a brighter glow. Valeria closed her eyes,

shivering, nervous and expectant. Paynes dark eyes gleamed in the presence of such unfettered

magic; Giles watched Daisy carefully, for signs that she might not be able to continue. Buffyseyes remained rooted on Valeria; Angels expression was inscrutable.



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Te implor, Doanme, nu ignora aceasta rugaminte. Te implore, Doanme, utrespur

sufletul.The flickering of the Orb of Thessalia increased in brightness and intensity as swirls

began to chase one another across its surface.

Quod perditium est, invenietur. Invenietur trupuli. Reda trupuli ce separa omul de

animal. Doanme, lasa orbita sa fie vasul careya va transporta, sufletul le eir.Sweat rolled down Daisys forehead as she chanted; her eyes locked to the page, she

barely remembered to breathe as she uttered the next line. Doanme, lasa orbita sa fie vasul

careya va transporta, sufletul le eir!The flashes on the Orb melded together into one bright glow, lighting up the dim room

and casting sharp shadows on the walls.

Asa sa fie! Daisy called out. Doanme, lasa orbita sa fie vasul careya va transporta,

sufletul le eir! Asa sa fie!

The Orb exploded in a ball of light, momentarily blinding the onlookers. All of them save

Daisy and Valeria recoiled; the witch blinked as the room dimmed considerably, and the vampire

cried out in pain and fell over, trying to cover her face with shackled hands.

For a moment everything lay still. Then the sound of Valerias crying could be heard. Hershoulders began to shudder, and she curled up into a ball.

Is that it? Geoff whispered to Giles.

The orbs gone, Giles responded. She should have a soul now.

Buffy moved to Valeria, stake still in hand. Hey, she spoke to the coiled vampire.Hey, are you okay?

Angel moved past Giles and Payne and knelt at Valerias side. You cant possibly know

what this is like, Angel muttered. Every kill, every life taken, maimed, abused... its all comingback to her, one by one. She has to relive it all, every time she took a life.

He took her by the shoulders. Valeria, he spoke, shaking her gently. Its me, Angel,

Im here. I know what youre going through. Ive been there. He brushed her hands away from

her face. Talk to me. Let it out. Its the only way youll stay sane. Its the only way youll getthrough this.

She nodded, tears running down her face, and looked up at him, her brown eyes staring

into his face. Angel, she murmured. Angel...

She reached one hand up behind his head and pulled him to her, kissing him deeply, her

mouth pushing his open, her soul singing with joy.

* * *

Buffy: Heart of Darkness Chapter 6

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Transcript of Buffy: Heart of Darkness Chapter 6