Disclaimer: Buffy and Co are slaves to Joss, he only lets me rent them out from time to time, to play with them.


Summary: What if Glory never appeared, what if something far worse did? A key nobody knew existed, a slayer torn between the one she loves, a vampire in turmoil, and a new evil on the rise.


’ thinking’ “speaking”

Thanks Neo and Amy for your beta-ing this chappie.
~*~*~*~*~



Prophecy


Chapter 1

The spread of evil is the symptom of a vacuum. whenever evil wins, it is only by default: by the moral failure of those who evade the fact that there can be no compromise on basic principles.
Ayn Rand, Capitalism: The Unknown Ideal, 1966
US (Russian-born) novelist (1905 - 1982)
~*~*~*~*~



It was quiet in the Magic Box, there where hardly any customers that Saturday evening, which left Anya tapping her fingers on the counter while resting her right cheek in the palm of her hand. Xander was downstairs in the basement emptying boxes of new items for the store. Willow and Dawn were looking over some books, while Buffy and Giles trained in the back. Tara entered the store; she greeted the ex-demon behind the counter with a small wave of the hand and smile, then head over to the table with the two girls.


Giles entered from the back of the store rubbing his bruised and battered left arm. Buffy following from behind. Stepping beside him she placed her arm onto his shoulder.


”Sorry about that Giles, guess a girl kinda forgets about her own strength.”


”Th-that’s quite all right Buffy. You didn't hurt me… too much,” Giles commented with a tight-lipped smile, picturing the bruise that was sure to form soon.


Dawn walked over to a bookshelf retrieving a few books, then returned to her set. Glancing at the titles, one tome caught her attention. “Melifontanous” She mouthed, even though it was written in a language she did not understand. The bold lettering seemed to jump out at her as she ran her index finger over it. The book was old, older than any other book she'd seen in Giles’ collection, the cover looked to be made of some kind of flesh, the lettering felt rough ‘maybe bone?’ her inner voice suggested.


”Hey, Giles,” Dawn called glancing up to look the ex-Watcher in the eyes. “What's this book?”


Giles walked over to the research table and cast his eyes downward at the object in question; scanning over it he removed his glasses rubbing them idly.


”I have absolutely no idea, I am quite sure I own nothing of the likes. Uhh... Anya have you ordered anything like this?” He questioned turning the book over then back again, he tried to read the name but it was in a language he did not possess.


Anya picked her head up squinting her eyes together to see the book that was now being held up, shrugging her shoulders, “No can't say that I did. Don't even know the tongue that it's written in,” the ex-demon offered pointing to the title of the book.


”It looks pretty old,” Willow chirped with a small nod of her head.


”And is the binding made out of skin?” Buffy pointed out scrunching her nose in disgust. “Ewww.”


Giles placed the book back down on the table, and turned to the redheaded witch.


”Care to join me in my office so that we may be able to research this on that blasted contraption?”


”It's ok Giles, the word isn't going to bite you. C-o-m-p-u-t-e-r,” Willow giggled out earning a glare from the older man.


Dawn stared back down at the book, transfixed. Her eyes didn't waver as her hand seeming to take on a mind of it's own and opened the cover to the book. Hand moving at a frenzied pace stopping abruptly on a blank page.


Spike and Xander emerged from the basement throwing insults at each other as Buffy turned a baffled eye to her sister.


”Dawnie, what are you doing?” She said, folding her arms over her chest as Spike cocked his head to the side look at the younger Summers woman. Xander halted in mid sentence as they all gazed upon the brunette sitting in the chair.


Dawn lifted her right wrist to her mouth as the left canine took on a fang like appearance, quickly slicing her wrist upon it as blood rapidly pooled to the surface. Holding the injured wrist over the book she allowed three drops of the crimson liquid to pool upon the blank page. With each fall of blood the parchment came to life, glowing as golden sparks flew from within it, magic words appeared on the page as if some invisible phantom where writing them.


A gust of wind blew through the store, entering the open door to the office, startling Willow and Giles, leaving the computer they ran to join the other inhabitants of the store. Bewildered as to what was happening they turned their eyes upon Dawn, who’s head had head snapped back, as it rolled forward to face her companions, her mouth opened, twisting into a sinister smile.


Dawn began to speak. Her voice taking on an eerie tone as it resonated throughout the store;
“Sanity shall be restored, a spirit will be released, and a killer will submit to fate. A slayer’s blood must spill, for the master shall walk the earth once more, upon the arrival of anointed one. The once powerful and now disgraced shall rise once more so the balance will be restored. So mote it be.”


A sardonic scowl replaced the grin on Dawn’s face, as the white of her eyes with the pupils turning black, and her skin taking on a pale yellowish hue.


Tara started to jump back from her chair setting next to the girl, but Dawn quickly grabbed her around the neck lifting the wicca off the chair, dangling her inches above the ground. Buffy and Spike started to run forward to help. Spike reasoned he even cared because Glinda treated him with respect, he'd hate to see something bad happen to her.


Tara clawed at the hand, which seemed to have an iron grip around her throat in vain, she could feel her throat constricting, and the air being forced out. Her lungs burned from the lack of oxygen as stars danced in front of her eyes. She was barely able to make out the sound of footsteps coming towards her beyond the sound of her own blood rushing between her ears.


”I wouldn't do that if I were you. I could have the witch’s neck snapped before you made it to me,” Dawn leveled a glare at the two blondes.


Buffy and Spike halted their advance as Willow tried to slip up behind Dawn and her lover, she desperate to get to Tara and out of harms way. Having no idea what was in possession of Dawn’s body, but what ever it was it set Willow's skin crawling. The entity was bad, no worse then bad. It was evil, pure evil.


”Freeya,” Dawn shouted lifting her hand in the air causing Willow to freeze in her place. Giles gasped and Xander ran over to protect his girlfriend who was still behind the counter. Anya peeked out from behind the base of the counter as she laid on the ground, watching the scene play out before her eyes. Not having a clue what was going, and that within itself scared her. Being a vengeance demon for over 1100 years Anya prided herself on seeing quite a lot of things, many of them from the evil variety, but never had she faced anything like this.


”Dawnie?” Buffy questioned with fear etched on her face, extending a hand out in front of her, hoping her sister would snap out of this and run into her arms. She was confused as to what was going on. One minute it was annoying bratty sister, the next evil hell spawn from the great beyond.


Spike cocked his head to the left, narrowed his eyes, and sniffed the air. A low growl erupted from his throat. “That's not the Bit,” the vampire remarked coolly, placing his arm out in from of Buffy to stop her progression forward.


Dawn released her grip around Tara's neck causing her to fall to the ground, gasping for air Tara clutched her neck looking up at Dawn with confusion. ”Ooh, give the vampire a cookie.” Dawn said clapping her hands together affecting a small bounce of her body as well, “He's a smart one isn't he.”


Giles ran the prophecy through his head, trying with effort to suss out their meanings, knowing he read or was told about something similar in his youth, during his Ripper days, but nothing since.


”Who are you? What did you do with my sister?” Buffy said, almost pleading.


’Dawn’ walked from behind the table and approached her “sister”, black eyes looking into haze. Reaching out she caressed Buffy’s cheek; with a demonic smile still across her face she raked her talon like nails down it. Causing blood to ooze from the wounds. Buffy flinched, trying to pull from the painful embrace. ‘Dawn’ caught her chin in her hand squeezing until Buffy stopped trying to move, eliciting a small protest from Buffy’s mouth to the fiery pain Dawn was inflicting upon her “sister”.


”Now be a good girl and I’ll let you go.” The sound of ‘Dawn’s voice sent a shiver down Buffy’s spine. She swallowed hard at the level of malevolence the voice contained.


Releasing Buffy’s chin ‘Dawn’ ran her finger over the blood that was starting to dry. Bringing the finger to her mouth; “Mmmmm, I forgot how good Slayer’s blood can be.” ‘Dawn’ turned her attention on Spike, dabbing her now wet finger back along the blood. “I'm sure you miss it too, don't you William. Can't you smell it; it calls to you, sings to you.” She taunted. “You can hear it running through her veins.” ‘Dawn’ laughed, a sound filled with malice, watching the emotions run across the blonde vampire's face as she brought her finger to his lips




”Now be a good boy and open up for mommy.” Smiling as she rubbed her finger across Spike's bottom lip. A low growl rumbled in his chest as his demon fought to come forth as the Slayer’s blood called to it. Closing his eyes Spike tried all he could to contain himself. “Spike...You don't want my gift?” Mock pouting ‘Dawn’ thrust her finger into his mouth as his demon surged forth, sucking on the digit. Spike's eyes rolled back in his head as he savored the rich, intoxicating flavor of Slayer blood. ‘Dawn’ removed her finger from his mouth, reaching up she stroked Spike’s ridged brow softly. “That's a good boy. Be patient and you shall be rewarded.”


’Dawn’ then turned back to Buffy, locking her eyes with her ‘sister’ but not talking to her, “Yes, I should know, slayer blood was intended to make vampires drool.” Turning, scanning the occupants of the room for a moment, Dawn then redirected her attention back towards Buffy. “You wish to know who I am little one? (Dawn paused for added effect) I am something you could never imagine. I am older than time itself. I was there when the first demon walked the earth, and when man fell from grace. I am darker than any evil to ever exist. I am the alpha and omega” Pausing again, “Ooops maybe I've said to much.”


”Oh dear Lord.”


”No Watcher, you are all alone on this one.” ‘Dawn’ laughed snapping her neck to glare at Giles.


”Where's my sister, what have you done with her?” Buffy asked, her Slayer side stepping forth as she took a hesitant step closer to the creature.


”Oh please don't worry about her. She was just a means to an end sweetie. She was placed here for a purpose, a key you could say.” 'Dawn' looked down at her body. “And I can say I'm quite pleased with the results… not too young and… not too old. Just right wouldn't you say?” Locking eyes with Spike, as ‘Dawn’ ran her hands seductively over her beasts and stomach, “All innocent and doe eyed.” Blinked for added effect. “You wouldn't suspect a thing would you.”


Walking to the middle of the room 'Dawn' turned around “And please, call me by my real name… Maleficent.” Finishing, she vanished with a crash of thunder and a flash of lightning.



Thanks to my beta anonnymouse!

~*~*~*~*~

Discovery I

Chapter 2


It took a moment for everyone to recover after Dawn/Maleficent disappeared. Willow was pleasantly surprised that she was able to move once again, and darted down the remaining stairs to get to Tara. Buffy clutched her cheek, then turned her gaze towards the blonde vampire standing next to her.

“Wot?”

“Don’t what me. I so can’t believe you., How can you sit up here with a straight face after what you did?” Buffy glared at Spike, folding her arms over her chest. Spike stared at her as if she had gone off and grown a second head.

“What I did! I didn’t do a bloody thing.”

“Yes you did, you know what you did. Are you so dense? All with the ‘ooo let me suck slayer blood’.”

“Hey! It was forced on me you daft cow. Wasn’t like I was the git who caused you to bleed in the first place.”

“Ahem,” Giles cleared his throat trying to get their attention, but it wasn’t working, as the two blondes continued to argue. So he decided to try a more tactful approach.

“Enough,” his voice boomed throughout the store. All heads snapped towards him, interrupting the duo’s verbal onslaught of each other.. Giles smiled with slight satisfaction as a glimmer of his former self shown through.

“Can someone please tell me that Dawn didn’t just turn into super evil Bitch, from a hell dimension? And what was with the whole touching oneself?” Xander protested, gesturing to the spot where ‘Dawn’ had vanished from

.

Giles removed his glasses as he absently started to clean them; lost in thought he headed into his office to retrieve a book that he hoped contained some answers.

Willow crouched down over Tara; slipping her arms under the blonde’s shoulders she pulled her to her feet. She looked into Tara’s eyes with concern etched upon her features.

“Are you ok baby?”

Tara could hardly whisper her positive reply. Her throat hurt desperately, and tears stung her eyes. Willow shrouded her in a bear hug, placing a small kiss on top of her head. The others joined them at the table taking seats, while Buffy and Spike shot each other daggers. Giles emerged from his office a few moments later and joined them, pulling up his chair to get comfortable.

“So what’s the 411 G-man?”

Shooting Xander an annoyed look, Giles opened the book in front of him. “It seems to be nothing I’m afraid. I cannot find a simple reference to any Maleficent at all. It’s as if she, he or it, does not exist.”

Giles turned his eyes towards Anya hoping that for once she could offer some kind of assistance now that is was so greatly needed.

“Hey don’t look at me. I’ve never heard of her, or some key,” she shrugged.

“Yes, w-well I suppose I should cross reference anything pertaining to a mystical key.”

Willow’s head shot up and a small smile played across her lips.

“Oooo, a research party! I’m in. Who’s with me?”

The group groaned in unison as Willow looked at them with a frown.

“Suppose I’ll toddle over to Willy’s and see what I can,” Spike said rising from his seat, glancing down at Buffy, who refused to look up at him, or even acknowledge that he was there still. With a quick turn, he disappeared out the door into the dark night.

~*~*~*~*~

After two hours of research, there was nothing to show for it. With a resounding sigh Giles instructed everyone to his flat. There were more books there that he hoped could shed some light to their problem.

Buffy left for patrol hoping to relieve some of her pent up frustration on the local undead populace. She was desperately hoping Giles would be able to find something, anything, to tell them what happened to Dawn. And what was up with her being some key?, Way wiggy on the wiggins scale. She felt a lump form in her throat, as a tiny wail broke through. ‘Oh God, Dawnie!’ Buffy inwardly screamed. She had lost her little sister; she was unable to protect her, to save her.

The events of that evening ran over and over in her head as salty tears trekked their path down her now red tinged cheeks. Why didn’t she stop her? Why didn’t’ she run over to and remove the damned book from Dawn’s grasp?. Why did she just stand there staring at Dawn as if her little sister was some kind of display in a museum? Buffy wiped at her tears as a small hiccup parted from her lips.

As fingers bushed over her almost healed claw marks and visions of Dawn testing her blood ran in her head, Buffy felt her mouth water as her stomach churned. Cupping her hand over her mouth, she ran for the closest tree and vomited. Fresh tears started to pool in her eyes as the acid from her stomach bit the back of her throat. It seemed that reality hit her full force, she had truly lost Dawn. Dawn, her little sister, was gone and some hell spawn resided in her body.

Buffy threw up again, wiping at her mouth as she leaned onto the tree, sliding down its base until her butt landed on the grass. Clutching each side of her arms, she rubbed them furiously trying to fend off the chill that seemed to creep into her bones, as more tears poured down her cheeks.

Spike walked father into Restfield cemetery; he had acquired the information that he needed from Willy. Surprisingly, he only had to bash his face in a little before the little weasel spilled. No worries for the aftermath that was the chip going off in his head.

He was about to start whistling when his ears picked up someone crying. Sniffing the air, Spike caught a whiff of vanilla and pure power, and that only belong to one person…Buffy. Picking up his pace but keeping to the shadows, Spike stalked his prey, following the sounds of her anguish.

He spotted her a few yards away, hunched over behind a tree. He might have that blasted chip in his head but damn it, he was still evil, and a smile played across Spike’s lips watching Buffy. But soon his smile faded and turned into a frown, still in the shadows Spike watched as Buffy slid down the tree sobbing as she wiped at her soiled mouth.

He had always been a sucker for a lady in distress, and as much as he hated to admit it, Buffy was in some serious distress. Sighing resignedly to his fate, Spike stalked over to her at a hurried pace with annoyance clearing written over his face.

Buffy didn’t feel Spike’s presence until he was almost on top of her. Looking up from red rimmed eyes, she studied him then returned to rest her chin on her knees which where pulled up to her chest. Spike cocked his head to the side as he narrowed his eyes studying the slayer. Sucking on his bottom lip he debated on asking if she was ok.

“You ok Slayer?”

Buffy quickly wiped at her nose, slowly pushing herself up off the damp earth. Lifting her head, she looked Spike in the eyes. “I’m fine. Just peachy,” she replied, jutting her chin out in self-defiance, trying not to show him any weakness.

“What did you find out?”

“Not much, but I figure ‘s something to run with,” he said, stuffing his hands in his pockets, pulling his cigarettes out of one, and his Zippo lighter out of the other. Lighting the long, thin, white stick, he watched the end glow amber, fueled by the night air, before taking a long deep inhale, filling his long dead lungs with the toxic smoke. Blowing it out into the night sky, Spike watched the smoke dance into the air, lifting farther away, dissipating into nothingness.

“All I was able to get from Willy was something about a key, energy, and some monks in some monastery in Brazil.”

“Well it’s a start. Drive me to Giles so we can tell him.” Buffy didn’t wait for Spike to comply; she just turned on her heels headed for his Desoto figuring he was following her. Spike rolled his eyes and started after Buffy’s retreating figure. ‘That’s gratitude for you,' He thought taking three long strides to cover the distance between them both. They walked in silence side by side for a few moments, Spike stealing glances from his peripheral view of the petite slayer walking next to him.


“What?” Buffy asked with a huff.

“Wot, wot?”

“What’s with all the secretive looking? You obviously have something on your mind so spill.”

“Nothing, was just wondering if you where ok. Kinda saw the whole puke thing going on back there.” Spike commented making eye contact with her.

Buffy arched a brow at the vampire next to her, shaking her head; “And why would you care? So you could rub my nose in it, find a weakness for the poor slayer?” she spat out. Buffy didn’t mean to direct her anger at Spike, but she was upset, cold, hungry and she felt lost, utterly lost. And since Spike was her mortal enemy, it only seemed fitting to dump all her emotional crap on him, because… well… he was Spike.

Spike stopped and turned to face Buffy, eyes narrowed. His face wore a scowl, his jaw clinched, and his fists balled at his sides. He really wished he could smash her stupid, yet perfect, little face in right about now. Without a reply, Spike turned and continued walking towards his car.

~*~*~*~*~

The duo walked into Giles’ flat. Looking around, Xander had dozed off with his feet propped up on the coffee table. Anya was resting her head on his shoulder with her arms crossed over her chest. Willow and Giles were busy pouring over books and Tara sat close by sipping some tea.

“Oh, please tell me you have something.” Giles looked between Buffy and Spike. “Either one of you.”

Spike walked over to the chair closest to the door and sat down. He leaned back, glancing his head up towards the watcher and slayer.

“Willy didn’t say much. Rambled off something about a mystical key, which is actually some form of energy. It was kept or is being kept by some monks down in Brazil. No word on that bird though, or how she came to possess Dawn.”

“A-a-a key you say? Yes, quite an interesting story. Why hadn’t I thought to look there first?”

Giles walked over to his bookshelf. Glancing over a few titles, his hand stopped on one. Pulling it off the shelf, he promptly opened it skimming through a few pages. Slowly pacing back behind his sofa, Giles read and murmured to himself for a few moments.

“Yes, it says here that a mystical key that can open a gate between hell dimensions was placed in the care of some warlocks who passed themselves off as catholic monks belonging to the order of Saint Francisco Bortalino. It seems the order sprang up in the late fifteen hundreds in the jungles of the Amazon.”

Buffy frowned placing her hands on her hips.

“That’s it? No explaining on Melifont and her morbid sense of humor?”

“Maleficent. And no, I cannot find a single reference to her anywhere in any of my books.”

Willow jumped up from her seat, eyes wide and her mouth opening and closing like a fish out of water.

“Lookie I found something. What…I’m allowed some happiness after hours of looking through books and finding nothing!.”

Tara flashed her girlfriend a smile as Giles, Buffy, and Spike walked beside Willow to read over her shoulder.

“I’m thinking prophecy decipher time.”

“You are correct Buffy.” Giles retrieved the book form Willow’s grasp and sat down to read over the contents of the page. There were a few more moments of silence as the watcher read, removing his glasses rubbing them a few times. Giles wore a grim look on his face as he expelled his breath and replaced his glasses.

“I-I-it seems to say here that there must be a succession of events to bring forth this master.”

“Are they speaking about tall, pale and fang-y? Because I so do not wish to see him again,” Buffy announced with a shiver, looking over at Spike. “So not in the mood for family reunions.”

“Don’t look at me like that! You did us all a favor by dusting him. Harvesting humans like cattle? Please. Takes all the fun out of the chase. What? Don’t give me that look… evil remember?.”

“It doesn’t give mention to anything in regards to him. From what I can understand from the translation, it’s referring to something greater, something more powerful, not a demon. The beginning transpires from the key being activated. Which I am assuming happened back at the Magic Box, if indeed Dawn is th-this key. Then it goes into the anointed one coming from ill sought means. But there is nothing more detailing how it shall come about.”

“It vaguely mentions a slayer’s blood being spilled. Something along the lines that the blood of the chosen shall usher in a new world, but then it stops. As for the rest of the prophecy, nothing.”

Giles closed the book with a looked of defeat.

“Well we just can’t sit around doing nothing Giles. I need to find Dawn. I have to find out what happened to her. And who wants to spill Faith’s or my blood. Since technically there are two of us, chosen and all.”

“Well I reckon the first place to start is with the saintly gits,” Spike said, scratching the back of his head.

“What, no, like I’m traveling to some hot sticky jungle just to talk to some monks. I really think that chip has fried your brain.”

“I know I’ll live to regret this, but Buffy I think…oh dear lord…I think Spike is right.”

“What?!”

Buffy and Spike shouted at the same time, causing Xander and Anya to wake up as they jumped off the sofa, preparing themselves for an attack.

“What…what’s what? Why is everyone all with the screaming?” Xander quickly swatted at the drop that was hanging from his chin, darting his eyes around making sure nobody saw it.

“It’s ok sweetie, I think you got it all.” Anya assured him, patting his arm as she gave him a reassuring peck on the cheek.

“We were just discussing Buffy’s trip to a-a-a Brazil.”

“Why is Buffy going to Brazil?”

“She has to go talk to these monks about some mystical energy, and how it relates to Dawn and us…and Maleficent,” Willow informed her best friend.

“And as much as this pains me also Buffy, I’m afraid you need to take someone with you.”

Buffy begin to frown, “Why do I hear a but coming along with this.”

“Yes, well, the but is, Spike will accompany you on your fact find mission.”

“WHAT?!” the whole room exclaimed, all eyes locking on the ex-watcher for an explanation.

“Right. Well Spike here is the strongest next to you, and if the need arises that you require help, he is sufficient in that area. We have no idea what you’re going up against and the added muscle will be of benefit.”

“You can’t just send her off to some other country with the evil undead!.” Xander practically shouted waving his arms frantically in the direction of Buffy and Spike.

“Oh please Xander. Spike wouldn’t harm a hair on Buffy’s head.”

“Ahn, how can you say that? He may have a chip but he’s still evil! He could get other’s to do his bidding.”

“Well Tara and I can make a protection pouch for Buffy. She can wear it around her neck and it will ward off any harm intended for her.”

“Y-y-yes we could do that,” the blonde witch agreed looking at Buffy then to Giles. Nodding his head, Giles turned to Buffy.

“I will make arrangements for your travel. So I suggest you pack, making sure to take all precautions.”

“Fine then. But if bleach boy tries anything expect a lone slayer to return.”

~*~*~*~*~

The unlikely couple sat in silence on the council jet. Giles had pulled some strings and went through his connections to acquire it for the trip to and from South America. The aircraft was equipped with magic infused windows allowing safe passage for its occupants of the undead variety with an aversion to the sun’s deadly rays.

Spike was hesitated upon entering the aircraft at first, not trusting the council of wankers, but he made it with some slight encouragement on Buffy’s behalf by kicking him through the door. Spike was relieved that he wasn’t toast and he could do something so simple as looking out a window during daylight. The flight was uneventful, and Buffy soon found herself drifting off into a restless sleep.

Opening her eyes, Buffy found herself in a dark room, the only light was provided from the flickering candles around the area. She was in her bed though, and wondered how she got in this place. Letting her eyes adjust to the dim light, Buffy pushed herself out of the bed and headed towards the ladder she found.

Pushing the trap door up and entering the larger room, she realized it was Spike’s crypt. “Never knew he had a bottom area,” Buffy commented to the empty room. Dusting her hands off she walked towards the center of the room.

“You know you really shouldn’t be here luv.”

Buffy whipped around seeking out the voice, watching as Spike emerged from the shadows of the crypt.

“What do you mean Spike, I always barge in here. No invitation needed remember.”

“Listen,” Spike said as he closed the distance between them. “You shouldn’t be here. It’s too dangerous. But remember looks can be deceiving.” Taking a lock of her hair, Spike twirled it around his finger.

Buffy captured Spike’s hand in hers, gazing up into his eyes, “Like how? Can you tell me?”

“Not much. Just know this, you have to be strong for the both of us Goldilocks.”

“How…what do I do?”

Spike leaned down and captured Buffy’s lips in a searing kiss, and pulling away, rested his forehead on hers. “You know how. You just have to look for it.”

“You have to go…now.” Spike clasped his hand with Buffy’s tiny one, pulling her towards the crypt door. Stopping, he turned to face her, raising Buffy’s arm above her head. Spike spun her in a full circle, ending with a dip at her waist. Buffy couldn’t help the small giggle that passed her lips as Spike pulled her up right.

“Remember what I said Buffy,” he finished, placing a chaste kiss atop her head then pushing her out the crypt door.

Buffy stopped herself before stumbling from the push. Whipping around, she was face to face with Spike’s demon, yellow eyes paralyzing her, making her unable to move. With a cruel twisted smile splayed upon his face, the crypt door slammed shut, vanishing, leaving no way back inside.

“Buffy,” a voiced called out towards Buffy from the mist that was surrounding her.

Squinting her eyes, Buffy made her way over to the shape that had appeared.

“Oh god, Dawn”

Buffy ran to her sister engulfing her in a bear hug as warm tears raced down her cheeks. Dawn closed her arms around the blonde and hugged her back. “I missed you so much. What happened? Where are you? Are you safe? Are you coming home?” Buffy asked, pulling out of the embrace slightly to look at her sister.

Dawn smiled then hugged Buffy once more. The two were now standing in front of a fountain in the middle of a busy park. The sun was shinning down as children laughed and played, darting around them and splashing the water in the fountain.

“Walk with me Buffy.” Dawn started to walk not looking back to see if her sister was following her.

They walked in silence, Buffy following Dawn until they came to a small pond with koi swimming about happily. The siblings sat down on the bench closest to the pond and watched as fish popped their heads above the surface to snip at the pellets thrown their way.

“Buffy, you have to be careful. Something evil this way comes. Preparing for it’s arrival, many things must fall into place for this to happen. I was only the beginning.”

“What do you mean only the beginning? Aren’t you coming back?”

“Don’t worry about meAll will be answered in due time. But listen, cause I haven’t got long. Trust Spike no matter what. No matter what he may do, you have to trust him. And don’t be deceived by your heart, it will be your downfall.”

“Why would I trust Spike? Without that chip in his head I’m as good as dead in his eyes.”

Dawn flashed Buffy her “annoyed” look and sighed. “Just heed my words, ok?.”

Buffy turned back towards to pond processing what Dawn said, when the koi started screeching, exploding from the water.

Gasping for breath and cupping her hands over her ears, Buffy sat up in the reclined seat.

“What’s with you?” Spike asked, glancing in her direction.

“Nothing, just a stupid dream.

~*~*~*~*~

It was well past sunset when the jet landed in Brazil, and as promised there was a rental car ready for their arrival. Like the jet, it was equipped with the magical windows, allowing Spike to venture out in the day to accompany Buffy. After getting their bags and passing customs, they were finally headed to the hotel.

~*~*~*~*~

Willow returned to the magic shop the next morning to pick up the sweater she forgot. Glancing back at the table where she sat yesterday she spotted the book Dawn had opened. Walking over to it Willow noticed that there was writing on the page so she decided to take it to Giles.

Willow walked into Giles’ flat with the book in hand.

“Lookie at what I picked up. I figured it could be of some help, and look there’s writing inside,” she announced flipping the book open to the page that contained the writing.

Giles maneuvered himself to stand behind the redhead skimming over it. Worrying his brow, Giles removed his glasses and started to clean them.

“I think we are going to need extra help with this Willow. I have never seen this language myself, and I cannot gain access to council records.”

Turning her face to face the ex-watcher “So I guess we have no choice.”

“No I’m afraid not. I shall get Wesley on the phone at once.”

~*~*~*~*~

“What do you mean you gave away his room?” Buffy exclaimed thrusting her finger over towards Spike, as they stood at the check in counter to their hotel.

“I am sorry Mss, but it is tourist season and we are very full.”

“But we booked in advance.”

“Calm down slayer you heard what the git said. Not like I’m looking forward to shacking up with you as well. But I’ll live.”

Snatching the key to the room, Buffy huffed towards the elevator.

“Senor, the bellboy will bring your luggage, no?”

“No mate we have all that we need right here.”

Spike turned to join Buffy on the elevator, tossing his duffle bag over his shoulder.

“Hey slayer, you forgettin’ something?” Spike couldn’t help the smirk that slid across his lips, as Buffy marched out of the elevator to reclaim her bag at the front desk, muttering something about stupid vampires not carrying bags and stakes.

~*~*~*~*~
~*~*~*~*~


A/N Ok, I used a translator for the language in the story. So if anything is off, it’s not my fault blame technology. Also review, it feeds the muse, and I thrive off it!

~*~*~*~*~
Discovery II

Chapter 3


He who has a thousand friends has not a friend to spare,
And he who has one enemy will meet him everywhere.
Ali ibn Abi Talib

If you hate a person, you hate something in him that is part of yourself.
What isn't part of ourselves doesn't disturb us.
Hermann Hesse

~*~*~*~*~

Buffy stormed off of the elevator mumbling under her breath. She was pissed, at Spike. Why did he have to be so smug about her forgetting her bag, and why couldn’t he just be nice for once by retrieving it for her. Stupid vampire. But this was Spike, like he could ever be nice, he was evil, didn’t possess a single nice bone in his body, he was pure evil.

Buffy fumbled with the keys. Spike was losing his patience and grinding his teeth.

“Give me those Slayer!” He said snatching them out of her hand.

“Hey, I was working here. So didn’t need you doing that.”

Spike turned the knob pushing the door open, stepping back he extended his hand with a smirk on his face.

“Waiting for you to open the bloody thing we’d be out here till dawn. Lady’s first.” Looking down at her with a smirk, “Sorry luv guess that counts you out. You’re a slayer not a lady.”

Spike turned and headed into the hotel room, while Buffy stared at his retreating form with her mouth gapping open.

The hotel room wasn’t that big. Upon entering the unit one was greeted with a medium sized closet and a few wire hangers perched inside. Next came a slightly worn dull yellow armchair, and then a sliding glass patio door, which led to a small balcony over looking the bustling street. On the left sat two twin-sized beds donning floral themed comforters, which were separated by a dark wood stained night table. A matching desk, which hosted the television was just left of the beds. A white door stood next to the desk. It opened to a small bathroom, sporting a stand-alone shower, toilet and sink. The dull green colored walls made Buffy’s stomach turn.

Spike tossed his duffle bag onto the bed farthest from the window. He then laid down, placing his hands behind his head and crossing his legs over each other. Buffy kicked the door closed with her foot, then stormed into the inner sanctum of the ‘suite’. She placed her bag on the bed unoccupied by the blonde menace. Unzipping it she removed her toiletries and headed for the bathroom.

“I’m going to shower. Try not to destroy anything while I’m gone.”

“Shouldn’t you call that Watcher of yours first. Don’t want the tweed wearing idiot to think I did something to you.”

Buffy rolled her eyes crossed her arms over her chest, “Oh please Spike, it’s not like you could do anything, with or without the chip. And look, I got this magic pouch of protection powder stuff... see.” She said while fingering the pouch around her neck.

Spike snorted with a roll of his eyes.

“Oh right. Like Red’s magic works so well, pffft.”

~*~*~*~*~

After telephoning Giles, Buffy promptly headed for the shower. It practically called her to it, with it’s inviting warmth from the water raining down on her stiff aching muscles. “Mmmm, nice” Buffy moaned leaning her head on the cool tiled wall. Closing her eyes, Buffy allowed her body to press against the chilled tile. It reminding her of a certain blonde vampire in the next room.

“Ewww, ewww, ewww, ewww!” Buffy swatted at the images in her head trying to dislodge the thought her brain was making for her. ‘Stupid brain.’ Just because she got some smoochies in with Spike during that diabolical Thy Will Be Done spell didn’t mean she wanted him. Hello, it had been more than a year since the smooching and feeling up by the evil vampire.

So why wouldn’t her mind drop the issue, and what was up with the little flutters that took over her stomach when he was around. ‘Just great,’ Buffy thought. Here she was alone in a foreign country with Spike. Frustrated, Buffy pushed herself away from the tiled wall to finish up her shower.

~*~*~*~*~

Spike laid on the bed trying to lose himself in the television show, but sadly they didn’t get Passions in good ol’ South America, and the Latin ones weren’t cutting it. Try as he might Spike couldn’t get his mind off the fact that there was a very naked, very wet, and very soapy Slayer just beyond the door. The image produced in his head shot straight to his nether region causing a slight whimper to escape his lips. Damn that slayer, she knew exactly what she was doing to him. Well maybe not, but damn it Spike needed someone to blame! ‘Stupid Red with that stupid spell,’ Spike jumped up, and started to pace the room.

Grabbing a cigarette and lighting it Spike took a nice long drag off it, relishing the slight burn from the tobacco. Finally under control he leaned against the wall to finish his smoke. Before Buffy came from the bathroom bitching about second hand cancer and all that rot.

“Mmmm, nice,” pierced his ears, as more erotic imagery of the Slayer doing God only knew what with her hands. He had to get out of that room, away from her, before he exploded. But it was to close to sunrise and he had no other place to go.

Quickly dismissed the idea of whacking off, not having much time. Buffy was already turning off the water and would emerge from the bathroom before he got half way done. Not that Spike was embarrassed about Buffy seeing him bring himself off. He just figured she’s put two and two together, and poor old Spikey would be blowin’ in the wind.

“Think unpleasant thoughts Spike.” Closing his eyes, Spike visualized Xander and Angel garbed in tights, dancing the Irish gig to ‘River Dance’. Yup, that did it, his raging hard on was no more. Sighing with relief Spike sank back down onto the mattress.

Buffy, emerging from the bathroom clad in blue pajamas with a white towel wrapped around her head. Eyeing the vampire sitting on the bed, she sniffed the air scrunching up her nose. “What have I told you about smoking. Ewww, so not wanting black lung, ok. And did I mention that smoking will kill you!”

Glaring at the petite blonde Spike retreated to the bathroom.

“You better have left me some hot water.”

“What for? Not like you can feel the difference if it was cold or not.” Buffy shot back, removing the towel from her head combing out the tangles. ‘He’s such a strange vampire.’

~*~*~*~*~

Stripping down and tossing his clothes in a haphazard pile Spike climbed into the shower. The hot water pounding down onto his tensed body, he sighed in relief. This was going to be a long three-day journey. Taking another unneeded breath, Spike’s senses where hit with the sweet smell of vanilla and what was that… arousal. Finding himself growing hard once again, Spike wrapped his hand around the base of his shaft. He began to stroke himself at a leisurely pace.

Spotting the bottle of body scented body wash Buffy left in the shower he opened it taking a deep breath. Imaging it was Buffy, her soft yet powerful hand stroking his rigid shaft. Her tight body pressed up against his, as her erect nipples danced across his chest. Spike’s hand start to move faster, his hips rocking with the rhythm he set. And soon he found himself spurting his release over his hand and into the waiting water of the shower. Satisfied for now he bathed then decided to head for bed.

~*~*~*~*~

Slowly swimming back to the land of the living, Buffy rolled over to face the heavily draped window of her hotel room. ‘Oh yeah, hotel. Brazil. Strange monks in monastery.’ Rolling the other way she faced the sleeping form of Spike. ‘Naked vampire. Forgot about him,’ arching an eyebrow she shot into a sitting position on the bed. ‘Spike is naked under that sheet.’ Standing up very slowly Buffy stood at the bottom of Spike’s bed. Starring down at him, her mouth forming a silent ‘O’. He was sprawled out lying on his stomach, with a pillow draped over his head.

Buffy found herself transfixed on the sheet that barely covered him. Who knew he slept in the buff. Spike’s left leg was snaked within the white fabric, as the right one pulled most of the material to the side, to hanging off the mattress. The bit that was still on the bed hung low barely covering the curve of his ass. Darting her eyes to his pillow covered head then back to his butt. Buffy swallowed hard, her heartbeat speeding up as her fingers itched to inch the sheet down more. ‘Just a peek, that’s all. He’d never know, the man sleeps like the dead…err un-dead.’

Spike woke suddenly to the feeling that he was being watched, momentarily forgetting where he was. Stretching out his sensing he picked up the Slayer. He was in a hotel room with her in Brazil, playing bodyguard for the bleedin’ Slayer how typical. He was about to sit up when her heartbeat stopped his movements. Knowing she was standing right over him Spike was puzzled at her reaction. ‘Just what in bloody hell is she up too,’ he wondered.

Hatching a plan, Spike let his right leg fall farther off the bed, pulling the sheet along with it. Buffy’s eyes grew wide as saucers and her body went ridged with tension. What should she do? Keep watching or wake Spike? Listening to Buffy’s racing heart pounding away in her chest, Spike couldn’t help the smirk that spread across his lips. ‘So she’s itching for a peek of the Big Bad is she?’

“Slayer,” Spike’s voice was muffled from under the pillow and gravelly from sleep.

“Hum?” Came Buffy’s squeaky high-pitched reply.

“If ya wanted a peep at the goods, all you had to do was ask.”

That snapped the Slayer out of her stupor. Stomping her foot and pointed an accusing finger towards the vampire in the bed, she ground out, “I was NOT ogling you, nor was I trying to get a peek at your goods. And…hey…stop…that, with the turning over. So not going there. No flashing the Slayer!”

Buffy turned and quickly entered the bathroom, slamming the door behind her before Spike could reply. Stupid vampire. Walking over to the sink and turning on the cold water, Buffy splashed her face with the cool liquid. ‘Get yourself together Buffy. You are not some horny teenager. And just because the sexy vampire with the working man parts is naked in the next room, doesn’t give you an excuse to get all peeping tom.’ Drying her hands on the hotel towel she shouted over her shoulder.

“You better be dressed by the time I come out.”

~*~*~*~*~

“You can do this. It’s not that far.” Buffy uttered a pep talk to herself, while glancing at the front of the hotel from the parking lot. “It’s not that far away, and see Spike has total faith in me standing there under the awning… waiting.” Buffy shifted the rental car into drive and eased onto the gas slowly coming out of the parking lot. Spike’s eyes widen as Buffy narrowly avoided hitting three parked cars.

“Blasted sun, she’s going to get herself killed. That’s supposed to be my job.”

“SCREECH” the car came to a sudden halt three inches from Spike’s feet. Ripping the door open he slid inside glaring at the blonde Slayer sitting across from him. “Oops my bad.”

“Yes, your bad or whatever. What is it with you and your lack of the English language…wait just get up. Don’t look at me like that… get your little arse up now so we can get a move on.”

“Ewww, pushy much. Said I was sorry for almost running over you feet. And wait why am I apologizing to the un-dead corpse again?”

Buffy climbed out of the car as Spike slipped behind the wheel. Flashing a smile at some onlookers who stopped to observe the near run over, then darted back into the magically enforced vehicle.

“We’re gonna need snacks and extra blood. It’s going to be a loooooong ride,” she said buckling her set belt.

~*~*~*~*~

It wasn’t quite as long of a ride as Buffy had thought, since Spike knew his way around Brazil. Was it because he was a man? Buffy squashed that thought, men always got lost. It was in their DNA, so she chalked it up to him being a vampire. They had that whole sonar thing going on like vampire bats. Very pleased with herself and giving herself a pat on her back, Buffy sat smiling broadly munching on her chips.

“What’s got you so happy?” Spike questioned taking his eye off the road to glance at her.

“Oh I was just thinking you must know your way around since you have bat sonar or something.”

Spike snorted, “That Watcher of your really teaches you nothing, yeah? And no, we don’t have sonar like bats. I happen to like Brazil and been here more than once.”

“Oh, well whatever. And don’t you be dragging Giles into this. He’s taught me a lot.” Buffy crossed her arms over her chest with a slight pout of the lips.

~*~*~*~*~

The car approached the large castle like monastery after driving down a mile of winding road. The building dominated the landscape with its twin towers, ivy covered walls, and dark foreboding atmosphere. An ornate fountain sat in front of the monastery greeting visitors as they approached. The rest of the property was covered by dense, lush jungle terrain.

“Looks like you’ll be sporting the lovely UV blanket.” Buffy chirped exiting the vehicle closing the door behind her.

After parking the car and a mad dash inside the dark walls of the sanctuary, Spike and Buffy were ready to get down to business. Spike was already looking around as Buffy let her eyes adjust to the dimly lit interior. A small figure emerged from the darkness, dark eyes pinning the duo in their place.

“Miss Summers we have been expecting you. Please come this way.”

Frowning Buffy took in the little man; he was dark in complexion with wide dark brown expressive eyes, a small slit for a mouth and bold head. But he was dressed like a typical monk, in a long brown drab-y robe.

”Umm, no formal introductions and I’m just supposed to follow you…like no.”

The monk stopped walking, turning to face the two, “All shall be answered Miss Summers, please come this way.”

Buffy glanced at Spike who just shrugged.

“Seems like we have no other choice pet.”

~*~*~*~*~

The monk led the two down a dusty hallway, passing portraits of previous Popes and Arch Bishops of the past. At the end of the hall they where standing with two large ornate oak doors, inlaid with gold. A scene was engraved in it, a ball of light, a menacing claw looming over the land along with death and destruction.

“Please…this way.” The monk instructed them, opening the door granting them entrance.

‘Door with horrific carving on it leading to a room, why am I entering it?’ Buffy wondered slowly walking inside.

“We played your little follow the leader bit, but it’s getting old. Who the hell are ya and when are you planning on making with some answers?” Spike growled out.

The monk turned to face Spike blinking at his question; a smile slowly came to his face.

“Yes I am truly sorry vampire. My name is Marcus. Now please make yourselves comfortable while I go fetch Father Vinnie.”

Marcus walked out of the room closing and locking the door behind him.

“Ooookay, that went well. Locked in a dusty old room waiting for Vinnie.”

“I don’t like this Slayer, not one bit. He didn’t smell totally human either.”

“Oh, well this is just great. Now you tell me.”

“You didn’t ask.” He replied placing his hands on his narrow hips.

“When was the last time I had to ask you for your input? You just open your mouth, and out comes what the bleached idiot has to say.” Buffy launched back, tossing her hands up in the air.

“Like you got room to speak blondie!” Spike retorted, pointing his finger in Buffy’s direction.

With a “humph” Buffy turned around to face a window, peering out to the forest beyond the walls of the sanctum. Spike paced the room looking around at the vintage artifacts. He swiped his hand over a book self in the corner of the large room, rubbing the dust between his fingers he whistled. Looking over his shoulder pinning the location of his partner Spike glanced back at the books taking in their titles. Noticing a few that he read many years ago, and a few he still had and read from time to time.

Buffy walked over to a Victorian styled sofa, patting the cushion she scrunched her nose in disgust as a loud sneeze chased some of the dust free. “You think for a holy place they’d keep it clean.”

“They don’t strike me as the cleaning type pet.”

“Yeah well if they were expecting me they could have dusted at lest. It’s the polite thing to do. I mean even you clean your crypt… so what does that say about half human thingys who live as monks?”

“What do you think I could get for this?” Spike inquired holding up two brass candleholders.

“Drop it or you will be leaving here in a Hoover bag, got it?”

“Hey they could fetch a lot of dosh.”

“No they wont. And what is dosh? Wait, forget I said that cause I SO don’t want to know!”

“Get your mind out of the gutter you silly bint. Dosh is money, you know the thing you use to buy stuff with.” He replied rolling his eyes.

Buffy crossed her arms over her chest, “I so knew that. And my mind is only in the gutter because that’s where you came from and you’re a pig…so there… see,” mentally sticking her tongue out at him ‘Take that! Call me a gutter brain.’

Placing the holders back in their respective places Spike walked over to where Buffy was, plopping down next to her causing more dust to fill the air. Coughing and frantically fanning the air around her face Buffy glared at Spike.

“You did that on purpose.”

“Did what?” Spike batted an innocent look back at Buffy only making her madder, her cheeks taking on a flustered look as her eyes turning into narrow slits.

“Don’t you…”

Buffy was cut off in mid-sentence as Spike leaned into her body. Moving with vampire like speed his hand quickly scooped the unsuspecting spider off of Buffy’s shoulder. Jumping up off the sofa Spike ran as close to the window as possible, flinging the hairy menace out into the waiting jungle. Returning to his set he was met with a quizzical faced slayer.

“You just snatched a spider off my shoulder.”

“Duh… I know. So what.”

“Well why didn’t you tell me that there was a spider on me?” Buffy said in a defensive voice.

“Because if I told you that there was a hairy, fang-y spider crawling on your shoulder how would you have reacted? I’ll tell you how.” Spike sat straight up taking on a fake valley girl accent with a high-pitched voice sans British accent, tossing his imaginary long blonde hair over his left shoulder. “Like oh my God, there’s this really nasty fang-y spider on my shoulder. Ewww, that’s so not of the good.”

Buffy sat with her mouth hanging open for a few moments in shock.

“Oh my god, I so do not sound like. And I so would not have acted like that… you said hairy… ewww.”

“Yeah you do, and you would. So deal.”

A small un-lady like snort left Buffy’s mouth as she pictured Spike ‘imitating’ her. “Yeah well thanks… for saving me from the hairy and possibly poisonous spider.”

“Anytime Slayer. And if you tell anyone about what I did, as soon as I get this chip out your dead.”

“In your dreams blood breath.”

Just then the doors to the room opened, Marcus walked in followed by a taller man, older than Marcus. Light skinned with cold blue eyes, his cheeks where sunken and he had a long protruding nose. He was dressed in a white robe similar to the monks and carried a small black book under his right arm. The last thing Buffy noticed was his hair, he actually had hair, not shaved like the monks. It was all white except for a small patch that was red.

“I am Father Vinnie. Sorry if I have kept you long Miss Summers and Mr. Brodly.”

“Spike raised his scarred brow ‘How the git know my name?’

“Yeah, well now that your hear can we get with the answer part… please.” Buffy asked with a mock cheerful voice.

Father Vinnie smiled at the two then proceeded farther into the room. Walking over to a wall he swiped his hand over it revealing a hidden door, reaching in he removed a black stone. Turning he walked back over to the three figures standing watching him. Smiling again he placed the stone on top of the large table in the room. The stone began to hum and glow, casting an eerie green light in its wake.

“Watch and learn Mss. Summers,” Father Vinnie directed pointing towards the far wall.

The stone began to project the images that were carved into the gold doors entering the room. A force so powerful it had no physical form, swept over the land killing all in its wake. Death and destruction was all that it caused. The screams of the dying filled the room, as the stench of burned and rotting flesh filled their noses. Then the scene changed: the beast being captured, then banished to another dimension. Strangely garbed men imprisoning a glowing blue light into a vessel.

Then the scene skipped showing Buffy being approached by Angel. Them patrolling together. Angel staking his sire, Darla, and Buffy dying at the hands of the Master. Skipping again it stopped in an alleyway, Buffy dusting a fledgling with Spike emerging from the shadows clapping. Stopping again at Buffy dropping the pipe organ on Spike’s back. Then finally ending on Angelus, Drusilla and Spike.

Father Vinnie turned to face Buffy and Spike; they were so caught up in the images they never noticed Marcus step out of the room. Or the mini monk army, that entering after him trapping them inside.

“You see our Master has returned. The key was transformed made into flesh. Your flesh precisely Buffy, we fashioned Dawn out of you. Fitted everyone around you with false memories of you having a little sister. We knew you wouldn’t destroy her that way, we knew it was right, the prefect opportunity for the Master to return. Dawn was the key to the Master’s freedom, and you will not stop her on her rise back to glory. Maleficent shall prevail.”

Father Vinnie snarled at them as he turned into a 6 foot horned demon, with blue skin and red eyes. Spike’s human visage slipped away, allowing his demon free range as he went on the attack. Buffy turned her back to brace against him as the demon/monks attacked from her direction.

“What the hell are these things? And so much for the pouch of protection, thanks a lot Wills.”

“I don’t well know, never seen this lot before. But told you they didn’t smell human.”
Spike replied ducking, missing the clawed hand coming at him full force as he sent a jab to the demon’s side. Hopefully it was a kidney. Demon Vinnie howled out in pain grabbing his side glaring at the blonde vampire. Taking the opening Spike kneed him in the chin, causing orange blood to shoot out and drip onto the wood floor.

Buffy managed to retrieve a sword from one of the demon monks as she sliced a head off another. Jumping into the air she delivered a powerful kick to monk number 4, he flow back into the doors knocking them open. Demon monk number 7 punched Buffy in the temple causing her to lose her balance for a moment.

Demon Vinnie grabbed Spike by the throat and pinned him to a wall.

“Mmm, the ace card. The Master said you would be very unpredictable. Fighting against your own with a Slayer. How despicable. The en-souled one I could understand, but you? The Master has bestowed a gift upon you has she not. Come be with us, use what she gave you.”

Spike managed to choke a “Fuck you!” through his crushed esophagus before kneeing the demon in the groin. Growling in pain demon Vinnie released the vampire to cup his manhood. Spike dropped to his feet and attacked, wrapping his arms around the demon’s neck. He twisted, greeted to the sound of bones crunching and a lovely “pop” sensation. Dropping the body he quickly ran over to help the Slayer.

“There’s to many, we have to get out of here… NOW!” He yelled risking a quick glance at her.

“All with you on that one,” Buffy agreed with no hesitation.

Spike retrieved a discarded sword from the floor as the two made their way to the golden doors. Pushing, kicking, and punching their way, they didn’t stop, just kept running. Spike took Buffy by the hand as he dragged her down the corridor to the entrance of the monastery. Eyeing his blanket by the door he snatched it up flinging it over his head. Ripping the door open the two plowed out into the dimming daylight.

Buffy quickly opened the car door and dove inside followed by a slightly smoldering vampire. Snatching the keys off the slayer, Spike shoved them into the ignition starting the car. At lest 20 demon monks headed out towards the car snarling and clawing their way. Flooring the gas, Spike hit a few of them maneuvering a 180 degree turn, then speed down the road from which they came.

“Bloody hell.”

~*~*~*~*~

Spike made record time getting them back into the city. He beat the time it took to get them to the monastery by an hour and a half. Buffy sat in the car frowning at the orange blood that now stained her blue tank top.

“You know this was new. I got it on sale at the Gap.”

“Well you should know by now not to wear new things when you go fact finding.” Spike retorted never taking his eyes off the road.

“What’s your problem Mr. Moody Pants?”

“Nothing… just wondering… nothing didn’t mean to bit your head off.”


The two pulled up to the front of the hotel.

“You’re not coming up?”

“Not yet. Going to get some extra blood, the others went bad. Just a bit famished after that brawl.”

“Ok. Don’t know why I’m saying this, but be careful. Try not to piss off any humans, kay?”

Spike smirked watching Buffy close the door, then pulled off.

~*~*~*~*~

“Yeah Giles, he went all demon on us, blue skin, horns, read eyes and orange blood. Yup research away…can’t wait to see what you find…. No nothing, no name just referred to it as Master…” Buffy could hear Willow in the background apologizing for the protective pouch not working. Sighing, Buffy rolled her eyes and pictured all the “I’m so sorry” cookie goodness that would be awaiting her arrival back in Sunnydale. “Nah, only saw a blue light and demon Vinnie said how Dawn was made from my flesh. How wiggy is that… yes Giles I’m fine… I’ll deal… ok talk to you later. Bye.”

Buffy hung up the phone heading to the bathroom for a much needed shower.

~*~*~*~*~

Spike had found a butcher who was willing to sell him some pig’s blood. Not that the butcher was questioning him or his motives. It was common practice in Brazil, in certain religious rights like Voodoo and others that demanded blood; the butcher’s in town sold out daily. Walking back to the car Spike was approached by a gang of teen boys, they decided he was an easy target for a mugging. Oh how he wished for his pre chipped days, this would have been right up his alley. A small smile of amusement tugged at the corners of his mouth.

“Dê-me seu dinheiro agora e você não ficará magoado senhor.” The leader of the gang said pinning his eyes with Spike’s.
(Give me your money now and you won’t get hurt sir.)

Leaning back on the rental Spike crossed his arms over his chest and replied with a smirk.

“Como está isto, licença agora e você não ficará magoado.”
(How’s this, leave now and you won’t get hurt.)

“Rapaz branco fala nossa linguagem.” The dark completed boy wearing a red bandana commented.
(White boy speaks our language.)

“Não faça este mais duro que tem que ser senhor.” The leader grounded out flipping out a pocketknife.
(Don’t make this harder than it has to be sir.)

“Bugger,” thinking quickly, Spike whipped of his prized leather duster using it as a whip he smacked the leader in the face with it.

The teen covered his face shouting

“Receba-o!”
(Get him!)

The gang withdrew their concealed pocket knifes and advanced on Spike. They had him surrounded and Spike found himself trying to figure how to get out of this mess. One of the teens lunged at him slicing his wrist with the knife after Spike brought it up to protect his chest. Without second thought he vamped out punching the boy in the face, sending the younger man flying ten feet into the dark alley.

Upon seeing Spike’s features the leader screamed, wetting his pants as he ran away.

“Oh meu deus, ele não é humano é um demônio. CORRIDA!”
(Oh my god, he’s not human he’s a devil. RUN!)

One gang member asked before running, “Que sobre Roberto?”
(What about Roberto?)


“Esqueça-se o. Exceto si,” another one replied waving his hand in the air turning to run.
(Forget him. Save yourself.)

Spike didn’t notice the gang’s retreating members since he was bracing himself for the chips reaction. Squinting his eyes closed he waited for the pain closing in himself. Opening one eye Spike arched his brow, making note of lacking pain. Slowly opening the second eye he still noticed nothing. Straighten to full height he was shocked, the chip, it either no longer worked or it was gone. Confused and in a daze Spike got behind the wheel of the car and headed back to the hotel.

~*~*~*~*~

The vampire entered the hotel room his ears assaulted by muffled sobbing. Concerned that something happened to Buffy he quickly closed the door and rushed towards the balcony, placing his blood on the top self of the closet. Leaning into the doorway he observed Buffy sitting in one of the wicker chairs wrapped in her plush pink bathrobe, her knees pulled into her body with her chin resting on them. Her eyes where red and cheeks stained with tears, and her hair was still slightly damp for her shower.

Spike walked out onto the balcony stopping next to Buffy, kneeling down he hesitantly reach his hand out placing it on her shoulder.

“You ok?”

Buffy’s initial reaction was to pull away but something stopped her from doing it, and she took comfort in Spike’s touch. Shaking her head as damp tresses fluttered into her face. Pushing the strands away with her hands she turned to face him.

“Yeah, I’m fine.” But the quivering chin and fresh tears attested to the fact that she wasn’t.

Without a second thought Spike scooped her up in his arms, placing her in his lap as he rocked her back and forth wispering small nothings into her hair. Buffy’s sobs racked through her petite body. Sobs turned to hiccups as they tapered off while Buffy buried her face into Spike’s tee shirt covered chest. When the last tear fell she wiped her nose on said tee, lifting her gaze she was met with two piercing blue ones.

“Now that your done using me as your walking Kleenex, care to tell me what’s all this about?” Spike questioned still holding Buffy on his lap.

Making no attempt to move as she began to play with the hem on his arm, she sat a few moments running her thoughts over in her head. With a resigning sigh she looked back down at her hands, now resting in her lap.

“She really is gone. I mean I now know that she wasn’t my sister, but the memories… there so real… she’s real. I miss her already.”

Spike tugged Buffy’s chin until her gaze was upon him as he searched her hazel eyes.

“Nibblet isn’t gone yet. We’ll get her back. Just think of it as a mini vacation. She may not have packed her bags, but she’ll be back. We all want her back Buffy.”

Her breath hitched in her throat as Spike’s words penetrated Buffy’s skull. He spoke with sincerity, it was the first time she realized that Spike and Dawn had a relationship, a real relationship. Not something done to make Buffy think he had changed. Not something to show Spike being less evil. It was just a young girl taking a surrogate big brother, and not only did Spike fill those shoes for Dawn, he actually loved it. And he loved Dawn, he loved her sister… no he loves her sister.

But that wasn’t what made Buffy’s breath catch in her throat; it was the use of her given name by the vampire. The way he uttered her name, it played upon his lips with just a hint of lust and awe. Swallowing the lump that suddenly formed in her throat, Buffy gazed deeper into those swirling pools of cerulean. Lost within them and the emotions they invoked deep inside her. Emotions she thought only present due to that spell.

Licking her bottom lip, Buffy hastily raised forward capturing Spike’s lips in her own. Hesitating for only a moment Spike returned the kiss with vigor, thrusting his tongue into her warm accepting mouth. Buffy moaned into him from the forceful intrusion, as her body leaned into the taught form, which cradled her. Remembering that Buffy had to breath Spike released her as she gulped for air. The two sat staring at each other as if in some kind of haze. Buffy came to her senses first as she jumped up off of Spike’s lap.

Blazing wide eyes, kiss swollen lips, and shaky voice pulled Spike back to reality. “What just happened?”

Staring at the disheveled blonde before him, for once Spike was at a lost for words. What the hell had just happened. His body was still buzzing from the embrace they shared, and it reminded him how he felt from their stolen kisses, when they where betrothed. Spike stood facing Buffy locking his eyes with hers.

“Hell if I knew,” rumbled from his chest. ‘But I’d bloody well do it again,’ he mentally added, with a smirk.

As if reading his mind, Buffy launched herself at him, locking her hands behind his neck, as she crushed her mouth against his. Spike instinctively circled her tiny waist with his left arm, as his right caressed her ass. Buffy moaned pushing him back against the glass sliding door, as she jumped up wrapping her legs around his middle.

Shifting to support her weight, Spike flipped their positions, then extended his hand to push open the door. Kissing, groping, and feeling their way across the room, they toppled over onto the mattress. Buffy clawed at Spike’s shirt, edger to remove it from his body. Obliging to her command he propped himself up, tearing off the material and casting it aside. Buffy reached her hand out to trace over his abdomen. She marveled at the way his muscles rippled under smooth alabaster skin, feeling like velvet to one’s touch.

With hurried movements, Buffy made quick work of unfastening the button to Spike’s jeans. She wanted, no, she needed to feel every inch of him. She needed him inside of her. Pulling the zipper down, her eyes where transfixed as his cock sprang free. Buffy could feel herself becoming more aroused just by the sight of him. How was it that Spike could invoke such lust filled desires deep with in her, where as her pervious lovers didn’t even come close. And Spike hadn’t even touched her yet!

Spike stood motionless, as he watched Buffy through hooded eyes. Reading the emotions that played across her face, the rapid pace of her heart, her breathing increasing by the moment. It took ever once of self-control Spike contained from pushing Buffy back onto the bed and shagging her into oblivion. But he would wait; let her take the lead, set the pace. A low growl rumbled through his chest as Buffy’s finger gently traced the tip of his cock, causing pre-cum to pull to the surface.

Collecting the moister with her finger, Buffy brought the digit to her mouth, jetting her tongue out to taste. ‘Oh fuck!’ Spike though, as he quickly devastated himself of his boots and jeans, then pounced upon his prey with predator like grace. Buffy found herself flat on her back with an arm full of horny vampire.

“God,” Spike said inhaling her unique scent of vanilla, jasmine, and sunshine. “Do you have any idea what you do to me, Buffy?”

He ran his hand over her exposed collarbone, as his tongue left a slick trail over her neck towards her ear. Buffy arched her head back, as Spike nibbled and sucked upon her earlobe, causing shivers to run down her spine. Removing his mouth from her ear, Spike captured Buffy’s opening in a searing kiss. Buffy felt as if she where melting, as his delved deeper into the recesses of her mouth. Their tongues dueled for dominance, as Spike’s hand trailed down Buffy’s robe covered body, stopping at her belt, releasing the hold it had on her waist.

Pushing the robe open, he gazed down upon the toned, supple body before him. He hungrily took every nuance of her into his mind, searing it to memory. Buffy felt self-conscience under Spike’s intense gaze as she started to squirm, reaching for the ends of her robe to cover herself. Spike gently stilled her hands, tracing the back of them with his thumbs.

“Don’t,” he huskily whispered to her lowering his head to take a pebble-sized nipple in his mouth.

Teasing the rosy peak with his tongue and hand, Spike gently nibbled upon it, eliciting a small whimper from Buffy’s throat. Directing his ministrations to the other soft supple mound. Alternating between sucking and nibbling, as Buffy arched her back into his mouth for better access. Her body was ablaze with lust filled desire, and she desperately ached for it to be extinguished. Still holding the vampire to her breast, she moaned out her request, “Need you. Inside me.”

That was all the invitation he needed, as his knee gently nudge Buffy’s legs apart. Gladly parting them, Buffy gave Spike all the access he needed. His hips laid between her thighs, his erection positioned at her heat. Ducking his head, Spike captured Buffy’s mouth with his, as he thrust his hips forward entering her sopping core. Buffy let out a muffled scream, from the shock and discomfort his girth presented. Spike stilled his movements allowing her muscles to adjust to accommodate him, and he needed to compose himself. Just imagine, William the Bloody shooting his load like some hormonal teen at his first go.

But being inside Buffy was pure bliss; he never though he could feel this way about anyone, other than his ripe wicked plum. But Buffy blew that theory out the water. . “ So hot, so wet… so tight,” he uttered as he slowly started to set a pace. Pulling out until the tip of his cock was still within her, rotating his hips as he lunged forward, making sure to connect with Buffy’s most sensitive spot. Lost in a world of wonderful sensations that Buffy had no idea existed, she met each of his thrusts with her own. Slowly the pace increased until he could tell she was close.

Slipping his had between their bodies, Spike took her clit between his thumb and index finger, vigorously rubbing it, and then pulling slightly. Squeezing her eyes tight, Buffy could feel the ball of heat starting in her stomach and spreading through her body. Spike licked and sucked upon her neck, lost in the sensations she was eliciting in him. He didn’t think twice as his face shifted bringing out his demon. Sinking his fangs into Buffy supple neck he took long slow pulls. It was as if fireworks went off behind Buffy’s eyes when she felt Spike’s razor sharp fangs enter her body, slowly pulling on her life giving force.

This… wow… Angel’s bit felt nothing like this. Her body exploded as her climaxed rippled through her, causing her nails to dig deep into Spike’s smooth pale back. Spike roared his climax into Buffy’s neck, as her vaginal walls milked his cock for all its worth. He collapsed forwarded resting his forehead upon hers, as they both gasped for breath, even though he did not need to breath. After a few moments Spike retracted his fangs, licked the wound close. The gesture sending a small orgasm through Buffy’s body.

“Wow…” Was all Buffy could utter; she had never felt so sedated in her life, even though she should be pissed about the whole bitty bit. But she wasn’t, it was nice… very nice, in a ‘knock your socks off’ nice.

Spike placed his arm around Buffy’s waist rolling them onto their sides. Buffy snuggled father into his embrace as she closed her eyes and drifted off into a deep restful sleep.

~*~*~*~*~