Part 1:

Buffy and Spike stood by the SUV watching the passing cars on the highway from the motel parking lot.

Spike had his arms around Buffy's waist from behind as she leaned into him.

Giles stood just off to the side, leaning against the car holding Willow in the same manner.

Their faces broke out into smiles as the tears rolled down Willow and Buffys faces when the horn of a car approaching started honking as it turned of the highway and into the parking lot.

The car hadn't even come to a full stop before Faith launched herself out of the car, quickly followed by Xander, then Zaaron when the car was parked and keyed off.

"Xander." Willow said sobbing as she threw herself into his arms.

"Will." Xander said quietly as they embraced each other, tears rolling down thier faces.

Faith and Buffy hugged each other tightly as thier tears flowed freely.

"God B. So good to see you." Faith said, her voice ragged.

"You too." Buffy said nodding and tightening her hold.

They pulled back smiling at one another. Faith went over to Giles.

"Giles. You still look hot for an older guy." Faith said her usual line to him.

"Faith. Good to see you." Giles replied as they embraced one another tightly before pulling apart to take in the sight of the other.

Buffy and Xander flew at each other hugging the other ferociously.

"Missed you Xand." Buffy said as her voice wavered.

"Missed you too." Xander replied as his body shook.

Buffy looked over Xanders shoulder to the car half expecting to see Anya stepping out and saying something totally inappropriate. It was something Buffy missed immensley.

Anya had died about a year earlier. They had been down in one of the hellmouths and was attacked from behind by a Kev'lar demon. Her body had been torn to shreads, what was left of her had been tossed carelessly into a crevice. They destroyed the hell mouth, but Anya was buried in the rubble. Buffy closed her eyes as another tear trickled down her cheek.

Buffy pulled back and looked into Xanders saddened face, seeing the loss evident in his face.

Buffy brought her hand up cupped Xanders cheek and gave him a watery smile of condolence.

Xander gave a small smile back blinking back the tears.

Spike had walked over to Zaaron. They embraced and clapped each other on the back as they stapped backed smiling at each other.

"Glad to see you don't fit in an ashtray." Zaaron chuckled.

"Suprised Faith hasn't staked your sorry ass." Spike replied grinning.

"Not yet anyway." Zaaron replied smie had grown even closer and continue to grow closer every minute. Their loyalty has never wavered and neither has thier hope for that one day their fighting for. The day they get what they what everyone else has. Peace.

They ate, laughed, cried and wiped each others tears during the next few hours. This was the first time they'd seen each other in over a year.

The last time they had been together was when they had lost Anya.

Buffy, Spike, Giles and Willow had arrived in town a couple days before and had secured a couple of cabins for them during their stay. The motel had been a meeting point the could be found easily by whoever arrived first.

They left the restaurant and climbed into their vehicles. Spike pulling out first and driving down the highway as Zaaron pulled out and followed them.

An hour later they pulled up to a set of cabins in a remote area, hidden well from travellers.

They had taken the opportunity to stock both cabins with food and supplies over the course of two days so everything would be ready when they arrived.

They climbed out of the vehicle and headed towards the cabins.

Zaaron, Faith and Xander stopping only to grab their bags.

They took their belongings in and put everything away and went over to the second cabin to join the others.

Looking around the room as the fireplace was lit and they all sat back to relax for the first time in a long time, they took in and cherished the quiet that surrounded them.

There was no sound of metal clanging, no death wails or explosions.

Just the quiet of the night, which they drank in like fine wine.

Looking at the faces that stared at the fire in silence, the flames dancing in their eyes, you could see that they had aged. Their eyes no longer held the exuberance of their youth, but knowledge their youth was cut very short. Their eyes held wisdom that only comes in later years, showing they were much older than their now scarred and battle weary appearance.

No one who was to look upon this group would never understand or have the ability to comprehend that the scars they carry, physically as well as mentally, had saved their life. Each scar meant a thousand lives saved. Bringing that day they were looking for that much closer.

Spike and Zaaron's eyes held the same knowledge as the rest, even more so for they had been alive much longer.

This group of outcasts as people would think just by their looks, were the saviours of the world. But that fact will always remain hidden. The fact that allies and freinds and loved ones had died for the cause, will never been known to the world. Only by them keeping the momories alive of the ones who didn't make it, will they be remembered and honored.

They all watched the flames dance as they sat in silence, curled up tightly to each other holding on like there was no tomorrow. Which very much may be the truth. They were about to face the largest battle they have faced. This is the only remaining Hell Mouth left in the world.

They had travelled the world closing Hell Mouth after Hell Mouth. Only a couple of small one had opened and they were quickly taken out.

They had all come back home to California. This was the first time back since Sunnydale had sunk into the world like it had never existed.

Los Angels, the city of angels. Angels town was the last stop. The Hell Mouth in L.A. mirrored that of Sunnydale in size, but not in strength. It was stonger, more evil emanated from there than several combined

As it was written in a prophecy Giles had uncovered while in Italy, he was able to translate it quickly, giving them forewarning as what was to come. The prophecy was written more of a warning and it was detailed as to who would be involved with vivid accuracy. In the scroll it stated.....

"It will always berking.

"Hey curlytop." Faith said approaching Spike.

"Bitch." Spike said with a smirk as he watched her come closer.

Faith laughed as she threw her arms around his neck pulling him into her arms. "You got that right." Faith replied as his arms snaked around her waist and lifted her off the ground.

"Good to see you still breathing." Spike said into her ear.

"You too......or so to speak." Faith replied quietly as he set her back down.

The color in Spike's hair had grown out years ago. His hair was a mass of curls that he no longer slicked back. His hair had grown to the middle of his shoulder blades. He kept it tied back with an elastic most of the time. In the last seven years none of them took time for their appearance. That was too much of a luxury, and the time and the energy spent on things that trivial, they couldn't afford.

Zaarons appearance remained the same other than his hair was slightly longer. Zaaron and Spikes healing abilities had never wavered. They carried no scars of the battles other than the mental one that would be ingrained in them all for the rest of their lives.

Giles hair remained short, but was mostly grey, he sported stubble most of the time now, mainly hiding part of the scar that ran from his eye to his jaw. The other scars were easily hidden beneath his clothing.

Buffy's hair was her natural light brown and reached her waist. She too had her hair tied back into a braid most of the time. She now sported a scar where her bottom lip had been ripped open, as well as one along her jaw. She also had a scar that ran the length of her back, one on her right thigh and one across her stomach. Over the years and all the continuous battles and wounds, her body was not able to heal the way it used to. She would heal and survive, but some of the deeper wounds would scar now.

Faith was the same. She has a scar along her neck where her throat had been slit. Her left arm had a scar from where a sword had gone clean through. She also had a scar along her left shoulder blade and her left thigh had scars from when she had a fireball thrown at her.

Willows hair was kept short. She now walked with a limp, her tendons in her right leg had been severed. She performed a healing spell but was so weak at the time, she was able to make sure she had full use of her leg, but the limp remained. She also had a scar that started on her right shoulder and went down, across her back to her waist on the left side of her body.

Xander's hair was longer, he let it grow to hide his ear. Half of it had been torn off. Half of Xanders body was covered in burn scars. The fireball hit Faith, but landed on Xander. It had been during one of the battles in a hell mouth with the strength like the one in Sunnydale. They had gathered together like agreed to take out the bigger ones, then separate again to take out the smaller ones. Willow had done a healing spell. But her magic, was being focused on the fight as well, so it left them with the scars.

"Hey G-man." Xander said as he walked over and hugged Giles, clapping him on the back as he pulled away.

"Xander, glad to see you're well." Giles replied smiling back to him.

"Will looks good." Xander said as they saw Willow jumping up to give Zaaron a hug.

"Yes she does." Giles replied watching her laugh excitedly.

"Thank you." Xander replied quietly.

Giles just looked down as they went over to join the others.

They all just smiled at one another as they turned to go the motel restaurant to eat and just be with each other.

They had only seen each other a handful of times over the past seven years. Relying on the phone to keep up to date on strategy, eta's and each other. This small group of peopl under cover of darkness. It is the only way to see the light. A band of Warriors will form and come together ridding the world of the evil that has come upon us, growing and overpowering us until we live and breathe the darkness. This Band of Warriors will consist of two champions of the earth. One of fair complexion, one of darker brought about by a false death. They will lead. Two Warriors will be Dark Angels. They fight for the love of the earth. One Warrior will be the Father. He will fight along side his children, guiding them until the light once again returns. One Warrior will be of the Power that life entails. Her power will heal and destroy at will. Her power will reach it's peak during the final stages of the last battle. Her power will never be acheived or surpassed by another living being. She will become infinite power. The last Warrior will have ties to heaven, blessed by the order, his help in the battle to overcome darkness keeps the solidity of the group. He will have loss during the battle, but he will remain in the light holding it steady for the rest to come through. There will be two Warriors who will fight alongside, but will fall before the final battle begins.

When all the other pits of hell are taken out, all their strength will be channelled to the one left remaining. Bringing the City of Angels to it's knees. For every demon that claws it's way from the earth and takes down a warrior for the cause, a feather from the angels wing would flutter to the ground, landing in rot and decay, trampled beneath the feet of darkness.

The Angels wings will break with the weight the darkness was causing.

The City of Angels warriors will dwindle, waiting for the Band to come and cast their light.

When the battle reaches it firey end, five Warriors will survive the night and greet the day. Three will fall beneath the earth, shining their light on the others. In the end, three Warriors will walk away to live in the light once more.

As stated by the stars and the seer of life, this shall come to pass. It is not possible to change or alter the outcome. It shall happen as it is written and the gates of old will open embracing the Warriors who will return, casting the final stone abolishing the dark for eternity. The warriors will find solace in city for Angels. There they will live out there lives, basking in the glow and safety of the Keepers of the Light. The Keepers of the Light will finish what the band of Warriors started. Then they will return and rest in the city for Angels."

Flames continued to dance and flutter as they sat together for tha last time. They knew this was it. There was no going back. They had gone too far to stop now. They's seen too much, done too much to just let it go and move on knowing it was still out there, waiting for them to come.

They all knew some wouldn't make it out. They didn't know who was to die or who was going to make it. They didn't want to know. They didn't need to know. They were together now and that was all that mattered.

In a few days, it would be over. They wanted it to be over. Even if it meant they were to die, they wanted it to end. They wanted thier day, no matter of the price. They were willing to pay. They would continue to pay with thier lives intil what they sought was theirs. Then and only then would they rest.

When their eyes couldn't stay open any longer they all rose silently and went to their rooms.

Xander, Zaaron and Faith went to their cabin and moved silently to their rooms with out a single word spoken. Tonight was not a night for words. Tonight was a night to just.....be.

The birds were a sign the day was beginning as Xander roused himself from the bed.

He showered and dressed, joining Faith at the in the kitchen.

Zaaron came out a few minutes later carrying his blanket as they stood up and headed for the door.

Xander ran ahead and opened the door the other cabin so Zaaron had a quick entrance.

They all ate breakfast together sitting around in the living room, it was the largest room in the cabin.

"Are you guys ready?" Willow asked looking at Spike and Zaaron.

"For what?" They asked in unison and slightly confused.

"I told you I was working on something for you. I wanted to wait until we were all together again before I gave them to you." Willow said as she went to her purse and pulled out a small bag.

She opened the bag and handed a ring to each of them.

"It's like the ring of Amara. But with more of a kick." Willow said as she sat back down between Giles legs leaning against him.

Spike and Zaaron looked at Willow in shock then turned back to look at the ring.

They placed the ring on their fingers, then holding their hands out and looking at it.

"Thank you Willow." Zaaron said.

"Thanks Red." Spike said as he and Zaaron both looked outside at the beams of sunlight shining through the far window.

They slowly made their way to the door and opened it walking out onto the small but covered porch.

Everyone followed behind them. Buffy and Faith in the lead standing right behind them.

Spike turned to face Buffy as he smiled and stared into her eyes. His hand reached behind him, grasping her hand in his, entwining their fingers.

"I want my first step to be with you." Spike said smiling.

Buffy smiled and came to his side.

Zaaron held Faiths hand pulling her to his side. Faith didn't smile, but he saw it in her eyes as she looked at him tenderly.

"Ready to walk in the sun?" Faith said softly.

"With you by my side, I'm ready for anything." Zaaron sreplied as he sqeezed her hand affectionately.

Giles hugged Willow from behind as Xander watched from the doorway.

Spike and buffy never took their eyes from each other as they took the remaining steps from the shaded porch to stand in the sun.

Spike smiled as he brought his hand up and carressed her cheek.

"You're so beautiful." Spike whispered as he looked at her bathed in the suns rays.

"No, I'm not." Buffy replied as she tried in vain to cover the scars marring her face.

"You are the most beautiful woman to have ever walked this earth." Spike replied as his hand grabbed hers and stopped her from hiding her face.

Buffy looked up through watery eyes seeing him standing in front of her with so much love in his eyes.

"I love you." Buffy said quietly.

"I love you too Buffy." Spike said as he dipped his head and kissed her for thier first kiss in the sun. His first time ever kissing someone he loved while being able to be out in daylight.

They broke apart to see Zaaron and Faith doing the same thing.

They turned and faced the water and holding each others hands, walked out to the shorline and just stood there embrace in each others arms watching the sun glint off the ripples on the water.

"You did a really good thing Willow." Giles said whispering in her ear.

Willow just smiled as she watched both couples enjoying the moment in their own way.

"Let's give them some time." Xander said as he left the doorway and walked back into the cabin. Willow and Giles followed behind closing the door.

Spike led Buffy to spot out of sight from any of the cabins.

Spike slowly captured her lips in a soft gentle kiss as he lowered her to the sand pinning her beneath him.

"I want to make love to you." Spike said as he pulled back and looked into her eyes. "I want to see you, every inch of you bathed in light."

Buffy reached down between them and pulled his shirt from his jeans.

She slowly lifted it until it was at his shoulders. They both sat up while he lifted his arms and she pulled it off letting it fall unneeded to the sandy beach.

Spike undid her buttons on her shirt and slid it off her shoulder and down her arms, tossing it away to join his beside them.

They both stood up and removed their pants. Spike sat back down and watched as Buffy removed her underwear and bra.

He reached his hand up grasping hers and leading her down to straddle his lap.

They sat there holding each other as hands roamed, soft whispers of love, passion slowly building as their kisses and touches became frenzied with need.

Spike and Buffy's heads flew back as she took him in to the hilt and began rocking back and forth.

Spike's head came forward placing kissed on her shoulder, slowly travelling up her neck, capturing her lips possesively when she dipped her head.

Spike switched his positon never leaving her as he laid her down on the sand beneath him.

Spike moved slowly, penetrating deeply with every move, claiming every part of her with his movements.

Spike felt her walls contracting as he began thrusting harder, coming to the edge with her.

They both screamed out their release as they laid together, a mass of tangled limbs, breathing heavily and wiping away each others tears.

Spike and Buffy stayed on that exact spot, never leaving until they had watched the sunset. Only then did they stand up and walk back to the cabin and join the others.

Part 2:

Buffy and Spike entered the cabin and joined the rest of the group in the living room.

Faith and Zaaron entered the cabin minutes later.

"Had to out do us did you?" Spike said smirking at the pair as they came in and sat down.

"Can't help it if my manly prowess is more..........manly." Zaaron quipped back shrugging his shoulders.

"Yeah well I'll have you know............" Buffy and Faith along with Willow, Giles and Xander got up quickly and went to the kitchen not waiting to hear what Spike was going to say.

"Well that was all kinds of entertainment." Buffy said rolling her eyes.

"That's what you get when you're out numbered by men." Faith replied.

"Now see here. I will have you know I was not, nor will I ever converse in such diatrabe that............what was that." Giles said turning to the livingroom where Spike and Zaaron were throwing zingers back and forth. "What do you mean I only do it by the book? I happen to be a......" They heard Giles say as his voice trailed off as he entered the living room and joining in the argument happening.

Xanders head turned quickly when he heard his name.

"Hey." He replied as he hurried into the living room.

Buffy, Willow and Faith all rolled their eyes and shook their heads.

The three of them sat down and sipped their coffee's while in the background they heard the muffled shouts and innuedos being tossed around.

"So what do you think it's going to be like?" Willow asked.

This question had started on their first time together after Sunnydale. They always told each other what they wanted for their lives when all this was over. They always had the same answer. Buffy's answer slightly altered then before.

Buffy smiled as she looked at the other two.

"Thanks to you, walks along the beach. Sipping coffee's in a sidewalk cafe. Nights filled with passion and need. Days filled with light and seeing him every morning when I open my eyes for the first time." Buffy replied. "What about you?"

"I still see alot of books in mine and Ruperts future. But this time it'll be for pleasure, not nesessity. Long hot baths, vacations in London, Paris and Rome. Nights by the fire, heat radiating on our skin. Days just watching the world continue to be there." Willow replied.

"Faith what's yours?" Buffy asked.

"To stay in one place. I've never had that. That's all I want, one place to call my home. Zaaron with me every minute of every day until I take my last breath." Faith replied quietly.

"We'll have to make sure we get together alot. I'd hate to be away from each other too long." Willow said.

"I doubt we'd move to far from each other." Buffy said squeezing Willows hand.

"Are you ready for tomorrow?" Buffy asked with a smile.

"Been ready for a long time." Willow breathed as she sat back in her chair.

"How's it feel Will? After tomorrow you'll forever refered to as the little woman or the ole ball and chain." Faith chided her.

Willow and Buffy chuckled at Faith.

"I think I can live with that." Willow replied smiling.

"It's a perfect spot. Right out there by the water Will. It'll be beautiful." Buffy said.

"By the tree over hanging the waters edge?" Willow asked.

Buffy nodded.

"I thought so too." Willow replied.

"Now we can hold it during the day and we can all be there." Faith stated. "It'll be perfect Will. Don't worry."

"I'm not worried." Willow smiled.

"I think they've stopped." Buffy said hearing no sounds coming from the living room.

They got up from the table and walked into the living room only to find it empty. They heard muffled sounds from outside and moved over to the window.

They had built a fire and were sitting around it staring into the fire, talking quietly and light heartedly.

They grabbed their jackets and went out joining them, sitting beside their mates.

Xander sat on either side of Buffy and Willow. They talked and laughed as they relived stories of first meetings and things they'd done when they were still in highschool.

Things that had to do with slaying and hell mouths were never brought up.

They stayed there until the fire died out and they buried the embers with sand. They retreated to the cabin for a night cap before turning in for the night.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Spike layed awake most of the night watching Buffy sleep. His fingers would trace the scars that covered her body so lightly as not to disturb her slumber.

So many near misses. So many times he'd thought he'd lost her. But she always came back to him. Always held him in her arms. Always loved him.

He rolled her over onto her back as his finger traced along her jaw.

Buffy slowly opened her eyes and looked into his.

Her arm came up automatically, resting on the back of his neck.

Spike positioned himself between her legs as he dipped his head capturing her lips and entering her at the same time.

He moved slowly and deeply never speeding up his movements.

Buffy's legs wrapped around his waist allowing him deeper penetration.

Other than a few stolen kisses they just watched each other, eyes never waivering from each other.

Spike's jaw clenched when he felt his release coming close.

Spike dipped his head stealing her lips as he spilled his seed deep inside her, filling her completely.

They broke the kiss slowly, they're bodies shaking as they rolled onto their sides, Spike still buried deep within her, and just watched each other until their eyes could no longer stay open.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Giles body was bathed in sweat as he shifted to lay beside Willow, bringing her around to lay on his chest.

They layed together not saying anything until their breathing slowed to normal.

"Tell what you see in our future." Willow said quietly.

"I see you in mine. That's all that matters to me." Giles said placing a soft kiss to the top of her head.

"I see children. Maybe three." Willow said carressing his chest lightly.

"Sounds perfect." Giles replied.

"Yeah." Willow said as she started to yawn.

"Sleep baby." Giles whispered as Willow closed her eyes and drifted off to sleep.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Faith fell into a heap on top of Zaaron, breathing heavily as he sat up enveloping her in his arms.

They didn't speak. They just held each other as the quiet washed over them like the sea.

They laid together awake, neither sleeping, coupling several more times through out the night.

Sleep evaded them. They didn't want it, didn't want to miss anything in the next few days.

Everyone was early, no one seemed to sleep much if at all. They all converged around the table in the kitchen. Some sitting at the table.

Spike leaned agianst the counter with Buffy wrapped in his arms in front of him.

"Is everyone ready?" Buffy asked looking around.

Everyone nodded as they all got up and headed outside walking to the beach and standing under the tree. Everyone but Willow, Spike and Buffy.

Buffy grabbed Willows hands and pulled her into a hug.

"I'm happy for you Will." Buffywhispered in her ear.

"Thank you Buffy." Willow whispered back.

Buffy stepped back and smiled giving Willows hands one last squeeze before turning and walking out the door and followed the path the other had taken only moments before.

Spike turned after Buffy left and place Willows hand in the crook of his arm.

Willow smiled at him as they both turned to the door and began the walk out the door and down the path, where her soon to be husband stood waiting for her.

"You can always make it a double wedding." Willow said quietly as they stepped off the porch.

Spike never replied he just smiled at her before turning to face the others as they came closer.

Spike came to a stop and place a kiss on Willows forehead as he stepped aside and Giles took his place.

The ceremony was as basic as could be. There would be no party afterwards. There were no flowing gowns and tuxes. They all wore what they had, clothes that had seen many battles.

Xander performed the ceremony as the rest watched and witnessed the joining of two people who were meant to be together.

Zaaron and Faith were standing on Giles side while Buffy and Spike stood on Willows side.

Everyone listened while they said their vows, wiping a stray tear from their cheeks, wishing things could be different.

Giles dipped his head and kissed her tenderly at the close of the ceremony, for the first time as husband and wife.

When they pulled apart they were swarmed with hugs and wishes from the small group of friends.

"Since we can't send you on a proper honeymoon, we're gonna beat it for awhile." Faith said as she started pulling Zaaron to the car.

They all started wandering away from the newlyweds when Willow stopped them.

"I know what you're going to do." Willow said quietly.

Giles had a knowing look on his face as he watched them.

"We're not doing....." Buffy started to speak.

"We're going too." Willow said as she grabbed Giles hand and walked to the SUV.

"Willow, you guys don't need to be there for this. You should have some time alone."Buffy replied.

Willow just looked at her with determination on her face.

"We're going." Willow stated ending the conversation.

They all looked at their feet and slowly walked to the their vehicles and climbed in.

They pulled out and made their way to the highway. They drove in silence for three hours as they made their way to L.A.

It was time to see for themselves what had become of the City of Angels.

If the prophecy was any indication, they expected devestation.

The closer they came, the more deserted the highway became. Within a few miles, they felt the darkness that blanketed the city, it was so heavy they could barely breathe. As they entered the city limits, they saw ruin, crumbling buildings, fires and smoke emanating from all around.

They drove on, the farther into the city they went, less detruction was apparent. The city was still being protected, barely.

They drove through the streets and noticed some parts of the city were lost in ruin, some looked untouched.

They continued to drive through until they had seen the whole city, then turning down the street taking them to the person they knew was the city's protector. Angel.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

They pulled up in front of Wolfram and Hart and climbed out looking around cautiously before walking into the building.

They stood in the lobby looking at the deserted office building.

They slowly walked to Angels office, knowing he was there. They opened the door and walked in and came to stand in front of his desk, to his back.

Angel was sitting facing the widow, overlooking his city.

"You came." Angel said quietly.

"We came." Buffy replied.

Angel stood up from his chair, still facing the window as he put his hands in his pockets and continued to stare out the window.

"I didn't think you were going to come." Angel said.

"How could we not come?" Willow replied.

"Been a long time. Things have gotten bad here. I'm all that's left....well me and Tom." Angel said.

They all looked around not seeing anyone else in the room. Thier brows scrunched as they turned to look at the back of the man standing in front of them.

"We warned you things would get bad after we found that prophecy. Unfortunately we were unable to come until now for reasons you already know. We all knew it would come to this." Giles said.

"Yeah, you did. And I expected it too, but I also thought I could beat it. But it beat me. Their all gone Giles. All of them. Dead. I couldn't protect them." Angel said as he turned to face them for the first time since their arrival. "Hi Buffy." Angel said with a sad smile.

Buffy gave him a small smile back.

"Wesley and Gunn were killed lastnight. They were ripped apart right in front of me and I couldn't get to them." Angel said as he sank back into his chair.

"It's time. You know why we're here Angel. Question is are you going to be there?" Spike asked as he looked at Angels slumped shouders, defeat written clearly in his eyes. A shadow of the vampire Spike had once known.

"They took me lastnight too. A slower, painful death. But death all the same."Angels said looking back to Spike.

"What happened?" Buffy asked worriedly.

"Poison, what else. Can feel it coursing through my body. I can feel myself dying." Angel replied.

"I can do a healing spell." Willow spoke up.

"No. I'll help while I'm able to. When I can't, You know what to do." Angel said looking at Spike.

Spike just looked down before agreeing.

"There's gotta be another way." Willow said knowing what Angel meant.

"No Willow, this is it. You can't take a chance and weaken yourself beforehand. You'll be needed at full strength. What you face in Sunnydale, will be a walk in the park compared to what you're all about to face. I only wish I could be there to help." Angel replied to her before turning to face the rest in the room.

"Good to see you again Faith." Angel replied.

"You too Angel." Faith replied.

They sat down and listened to Angel as he told them in vivid detail about how it had started. It started three years ago almost to the day. Demons became higher in numbers. Stonger and faster than before. It had started slowly, barely noticable. But a year ago, hell literally broke loose. Humans became a rare sight as they began leaving the city in droves, leaving the city populated by demons, and protected by a chosen few. Fred had been the first one killed, which only fueled Wesley's anger and he fought harder, killing as many as humanly possible. He fought viligantly until he buckled under the steele blade of a Krolaks sword, slicing him in half, dying instantly without feeling any pain. Gunn was not so lucky. When Wesley was killed, he had been almost back to back with Gunn. The same demon ran his sword through Gunns back, missing vital organs. The Krolak pulled out his sword then sliced Gunns hamstrings, causing his legs to go out from under him, falling to the pavement screaming in pain. The Krolak took his time, relishing in the kill as he slid his sword through various body parts, missing anything that could be a potential death blow. The torture had gone on for ten minutes, until he tired of the sport and removed Gunns head from his body. The decapitated body fell to the ground, the head landing a few feet away, eyes open with a look of terror on his face.

Angel closed his eyes at the memory. Angel had been in a battle against four demons, not able to bet to them, but with the ability to see everything happening to them, watching them die, while he stood no more than ten feet from them unable to move. That's when it happened.

The same demon that took out Wesley and Gunn came over to the group that was fighting Angel barking out an order. They moved quickly pinning Angel as he let an arrow fly through the air, embedding it in Angels shoulder.

The demons then stepped back as they let him go. They turned their backs on him and walked away. Leaving only the leader standing there with Angel.

Angel grabbed the arrow and ripped it out of his shoulder and threw it to the ground.

"You should have killed me."Angel spat with a murderous look.

The Krolak just looked at him and tilted his head slightly as a small smile curved his lips.

The Krolak took a quick glance at the arrow that now laid on the cement a few feet from him, then back to Angel.

"I did." The Krolak replied as he slowly turned and walked away.

Angel threw his sword quickly, but the demon was quicker as he ducked and the sword landed on the ground, several feet away.

The demon stood up to his full height and continued to walk away undaunted.

Angel watched as the Krolak walked away and he started to feel the poison slowly beginning to work it's way through his system.

He turned around and went back to his office slowly and sat in his chair behind his desk, looking out his window.

Thoughts of the prophecy Giles had told them about years earlier ran through his mind.

The 'Dark Angels' he thought would be him and Spike or Zaaron. His last communication with them had been over a year ago, letting him know that at the time they had all still been alive. But still in his own mind he had thought he would be the one to survive it all, be the Dark Angel who would be there when the light would shine once more on the city, leaving the darkness behind once and for all.

He now knew that was a false belief. He was dying and the true Dark Angels were Spike and Zaaron. The last piece to the prophecy had him puzzled.

"When the battle reaches it firey end, five Warriors will survive the night and greet the day. Three will fall beneath the earth, shining their light on the others. In the end, three Warriors will walk away to live in the light once more.

As stated by the stars and the seer of life, this shall come to pass. It is not possible to change or alter the outcome. It shall happen as it is written and the gates of old will open embracing the Warriors who will return, casting the final stone abolishing the dark for eternity."

Five Warrior survive, but three walk away.The gates of old will open embracing the Warriors who will return. He had never read or heard anything called or reffered to as the gates of old. His thoughts drifted this way as he looked around the room at all the faces of people who had at one time been a regular fixture in his life. It was many years ago, but to him was like yesterday. He now new he was one of the Warrior that would fall before the battle.

He wondered which of the group standing in front of him was going to be the ones to survive, or meet their end bravely.

They all fought so hard to save this world, that it didn't seem right some of them were never going to see it.

Part 3:

They all left Angels office and headed to the cars. They had decided to go to their cabins for the remainder of the night and return in the morning with what supplies they had. Angel had enough for an army, so they didn't need to bring too much. Angel had been asked to join them but had declined, staying where he was.

They arrived back at the cabins, Willow and Giles retreating to one cabin as night approached. The rest stayed in the other cabin, giving them their wedding night. The only thing they were able to give the newlyweds was this small amount of time alone together.

Before they went their separate ways for the night they all convergered in Buffy snd Spike's cabin to go over what they had been told by Angel. They talked about possible scenarios and strategies for hours.

Finally coming to the decision on how to fight and demolish the hell mouth, always with a small thought that maybe we can change fate and all come out alive. But another thought always followed. If they could change the outcome, could they. If they all survive and change the prophecy............could the demons. If somehow they change how it was written, would it become false and the world would be over taken again by darkness.

Sometimes getting isn't always as good as wanting.

Willow and Giles spent the night in each others arms. Holding, loving, talking until the early hours when their lids became heavy and no longer able to stay open.

Faith and Zaaron went to what was Giles and Willows room and just laid their holding each other, talking, carressing and losing themselves in each other closing the rest of the worls out for a few hours. It was only them that existed.

Spike wandered off to bed while Buffy sat up a little longer with Xander.

They talked for awhile in front of the fire as they held ach others hands.

After an hour Buffy went to her rom to join Spike.

They had come together many times that night before the sun broke over the horizon.

Xander sat up watching the flames of the fire, thinking of the past, looking toward the future, wonder what it will be like. Wondering if he'll even see it.

His eyes became heavy as he laid down and drifted off to sleep. This is the only night in so many years he had a dreamless sleep.

After Willow and Giles awoke, they showered and dressed quickly before meeting back at the other cabin.

When they arrived everyone else was already up and having breakfast.

They already had everything loaded that they were taking, so they just went to the kitchen and grabbed something to eat, joing the rest around the table.

After they ate Willow took her plate to the counter and placed it in the sink.

Then she went over and grabbeda small package from her shoulder bag and came back in to stand beside Buffy and Spike.

"This is for you." Willow said quietly to Buffy and Spike.

"What is it?" Buffy asked as she took the small bag.

"You're promise to each other seven years ago in Sunnydale. This is for that." Willow said quietly.

Buffy and Spike looked at each other before turning to Willow.

"Thanks Red."Spike said as he nodded.

Buffy hugged Willow tightly, thanking her before stpping back.

"I beleive it's only proper for a wife to sit with her husband on their first day of wedded bliss." Buffy said putting on a smile.

Willow smiled back as she turned and took her seat next to Giles.

Buffy looked at the gift in her hand for a minute before going to her room, soon followed by Spike.

"You know what's in the bag." Spike stated as he closed the door behind them.

"Yeah. I know." Buffy whispered.

"You don't think we're really gonna need it do you." Spike stated rather than asked.

Buffy didn't reply. She really had no need to answer so she chose to remain silent.

"I just.........I needed to get out of their for a few minutes. Seeing all their faces........it just........it hurts." Buffy said quietly as she wiped away a tear.

"Shhh. I know baby." Spike whispered s\as he wrapped his soothing arms around her.

"I only see death when I look at them. And I can't do anything to stop it from happening.

Spike held her, smoothing her hair and placing tender kisses to her face, not able to do any more than that.

Buffy snaked her arms around his neck and dragged him down to meet her lips in a heated kiss.

Spike lifted her easily asn carried her over to the bed pinning her beneath him, kissing her demandingly.

"Where's Buffy and Spike?" Xander asked as he looked up from his plate.

"Maybe they took a walk before we have to leave." Faith said although knowing better as she and Zaaron smirked at one another.

Giles and Willow just drank their coffee knowing what was happening but choosing to say nothing.

An hour later they reemerged and went to the living room where everyone had gathered waiting for the pair to show up.

"Let's get the show on the road." Faith said when they walked in to the room. Faith and Zaaron, followed by Xander left the cabin and went to the car.

Willow and Giles grabbed their jackets after they got up and headed for the door.

Spike and Buffy stood together as Buffy placed the bag Willow had given them on the mantle before walking out the door, closing it firmly behind them.

"We all know the drill. We come back here when it's over." Buffy said as the groups climbed into their cars.

Everyone nodded in agreement, then the cars pulled out and drove down the road turning on to the highway.

They all watched as the cabins where they had spent the last few days together, for some the last days of their lives, making a lifetime of memories to carry the survivors through the rest of theirs.

The drive was made in silence. They had said what they needed to say before they left the cabins.

They pulled up and sat out front of Wolfram and Hart staring at the front of the building.

This would be the last time they would be together like this, so they stayed quiet.

Taking a final breath they all exited the vehicles, grabbed their gear and walked into the building, straight to Angels office.

When they walked intot he office they saw a man standing in front of the window and it wasn't Angel.

"You really came." The man said turning to face the group.

Their jaws dropped and their faces held the look of confusion when they recognized the man standing in front of them.

"Tom?" Spike asked as he stepped closer.

"It's me Spike." Tom replied grimly.

"But you........how?" Buffy asked quietly.

"The amulet. It somehow put me or essence in to the amulet. It was sent back to Angel, next think I know is I'm alive. Well so to speak. First, I was kinda like a ghost, incorporeal. Then I became solid." Tom replied shrugging his shoulders.

"It had to have been hell all this time being stuck with peaches." Spike said smirking as he glanced around. "Where is the big poof anyway?"

"He didn't make it." Tom said quietly.

"When?" Spike said as he looked to the floor.

"About two hours ago. He tried holding on, but....." Tom said not finishing what he was going to say. "It's only me now."

Buffy was silent as she looked at Angels chair.

"He's really gone." She said above a whisper.

Tom just nodded.

"Maybe we should have stayed." Willow said.

"No. He wouldn't have wanted you to watch him die. You did the right thing by going. His only regret was he wasn't going to be around to help you in the fight." Tom replied.

Buffy and Spike nodded, knowing Tom wouldn't be there either.

According to the prophecy it would just be them, as it had been for the past seven years.

He had hoped Angel was going to make it, but part of him knew that it wasn't possible.

"I take it you want to get started." Tom said as he looked around at the group of wariors standing in front of him.

"We'd like to get our bearings first, then get started. Where's the hell mouth first off?" Spike said as he sat down.

"Building on the corner, to the left." Tom said pointing out the window.

"It used to be a private school." Tom added.

"Another school." Buffy said absently.

"Kinda poetic." Spike replied. "Ending it where it started, in a school."

"Almost like we're back where we started." Willow replied as she leaned into Giles.

"Xander. You, Zaaron, Tom and Giles, go find the where the water is diverted into the school. You already know what to do." Buffy said.

"You got it." Xander said as he started to leave the room followed by the others.

"We gonna scout out the school?" Faith asked as she watched Zaaron walk out of the room.

"Yeah, check for weaknesses, where we may need to have Willow put up barriers." Buffy replied.

"We've all known this battle was coming for along time. I've had a few years to prepare for it. I came up with a few things I've never done before, and on the scale it's going to be done. There won't be a need to put up barriers, they won't be trying to get out. One of the spells I'll be casting will be drawing the remaining demons there. Once there, they won't be able to leave until either they win or they die." Willow said.

"You've been busy." Spike said smiling.

"Only in the literal sense." Willow said. "I have a few more, but I'll save them until the battle. You know, sort of a surprise."

"Let's get a move on." Faith said as they all walked to the door and then out of the building.

"Too bad we couldn't just blow it up from the outside and then walk away." Faith breathed as they stood outside the school, looking at the entrance door.

"Ran into some trouble did ya." Faith said as she saw Zaaron, Tom, Giles and Xander exiting the building.

"No big." Zaaron replied smiling at Buffy when he used their slang.

Buffy smiled back.

"We decided, to hell with it. We went down to the basement and broke the water main there. I blessed it as it poured out. Then I took a cross that a preist had given me and attached it to the opening where the water poured out. It's a blessing that keeps on giving." Xander said smiling.

"Though we'd get a head start. Start weakening them somewhat before we actually go down there." Giles said shrugging and smiling.

"Good thinking Rupert." Spike said nodding at Giles.

"Thank you Spike." Giles replied.

"Hey." Xander said offended.

"Good job to you to whelp." Spike said smirking.

Xander rolled his eyes. "Whatever curly."

Buffy and Willow rolled their eyes as they followed Faith into the school, Spike following quickly behind.

They quickly made their way around, checking all the entrances and then made their way to the basement.

They followed where the ankle deep water was flowing to, leading them to the seal that would give them their entrance down into the mouth of hell.

They could see bubbles coming up through the water letting them know, the now blessed water was making it's way through the barrier of the seal.

They went back outside and met up with the others and went back to W&H.

"Alright, so we know the water has to be affecting them abit right now. That'll change as soon as we open the seal. Then it'll pour over them." Faith said as she took a seat beside Zaaron.

"We've all done this so many times, I really don't think there's a need to come up with some sort of plan on how to do this." Buffy said.

"We've all fought together, know how each other thinks. We'll know what to do when it's time." Willow said.

"When shall we get started?" Giles asked looking around at the group.

"Everyone take an hour for yourselves, then we'll head in." Buffy said standing up.

Buffy and Spike walked into another office to sit alone together for awhile before rejoing the group.

They sat on the couch and held each other closing their eyes to the world around them.

"I love you." Buffy said quietly as the tears flowed.

"I love you too Buffy. Always." Spike whispered back, shedding tears of his own.

They stayed in each others arms for almost forty five minutes before kissing each other tenderly.

They broke the kiss and stared into one anothers eyes.

"Til the end of the world." Spike said, his voice gravelly.

"Until the end of the world." Buffy repeated then they turned and went back to Angels office.

Spike and Buffys eyes were red and swollen, if it was noticed nothing had been said.

Everyones eyes were red and swollen, knowing what was coming, the fear started to eat away at them. They all wanted this to end, but were scared of the results.

They all wanted to live, but knew it wasn't going to happen.

They all grabbed their gear and headed silently out of the building.

They walked in pairs down the street to the school.

Just as they were about to enter the school demons started coming down the street.

They grabbed the door and swung it open and ran into the school trying to get to the basement quickly.

Tom never made it into the school. A flying sword decapitated him quickly dusting him before he had a chance to react.

"Didn't cast that spell yet did you Red?" Spike asked.

"No. Guessing I won't have to." Willow replied. as they ran in to the basement.

"Apparently not." Giles said as they reached the room that held the seal.

Spike and Zaaron rushed through first in case there were any suprises waiting for them.

They went over to the seal, all of them slicing their hands, letting their blood mix with the water.

The seal shifted under their feet and within seconds water came rushing into the room quickly and pouring into the now open hell mouth.

They all jumped down one by one, leaving the seal unprotected so the demons can make their way down to meet thier ends at their hands.

"Have to say, not impressed." Buffy said looking around at the empty cave surrounding them.

"I'd a thought we would have had one hell of a welcoming party." Faith said as her brows crinkled.

Spike and Giles moved to one side looking down a couple of tunnels but saw and heard nothing.

Xander and Zaaron did the same on the other side but had the same result.

"What the hell is going on?" Willo said quietly glancing around.

"Do you think it was a trap?" Xander said.

"That would be my guess." Spike replied as he and Giles came back to stand with them.

"It wouldn't matter if it was or not. We still had to come down here to finish the job." Buffy replied.

"Yeah. But it looks like this time they're a little more organized." Zaaron said as he slowly came over to them.

"Helluva lot more organized." Xander said stopping and standing beside Willow.

"They're trying to lure us somewhere else, away from the seal." Faith said.

"If they can get us away from here, kill us, then they still have a way to the surface. They can start all over again." Buffy added.

"Oh screw that." Faith said as she looked up when she heard the sound of the demons from the street getting closer. "I think it's almost time to rock."

"I think you may be right." Spike said as he pulled out his sword.

They all turned when they heard them at the entrance.

But looked puzzled when they stayed at the entrance, not coming down.

Spike and Zaaron turned their heads and looked behind them to the tunnels.

"Bloody hell." Spike said.

Buffy turned around to see demons starting to emerge from every tunnel.

Then the demons above began jumping down to stand in front of them.

"Nothing like a very will timed ambush." Buffy said as her stomach turned slightly.

Everyone raised their swords and charged the demons in front of them, quickly taking them out only to turn quickly and fight the demons coming from the the tunnels.

Willow casted a small spell that floated two energy balls above them in the middle of the cave. The energy balls would only last ten minutes, but every three seconds it would shoot a streak of lighting, taking out a demon with every strike.

That helped keep their numbers down for them to be able to strike back.

There seemes to be an infinate amount demons coming through the tunnels with no end in sight.

Xander was fighting alongside of Zaaron like they had ben for the last seven years. He was holding his own remarkably well.

Zaaron and Xander were slicing through the demons quickly, but not making a dent in the amount of demons they had in front of them.

Giles fought beside Willow each holding their own with a sword. Willow would occasionally use magic to repel a group of demons to give them a few seconds to regroup or send a group of demons to a fiery death. Willow relied mostly on he weapon, saving her magic for later on, when their numbers were lower and all the demons were gathered here.

At the moment they were still coming through in hoards.

Faith, Buffy and Spike all fought together, trying to take the brunt of the fight from Willow and Giles.

Their sword moved fast and with deadly accuracy. They had no time for fancy footwork, it was kill and move on. One swipe of the sword, one kill.

Buffy faltered slightly when an arrow went through her leg. She regained her footing and continued on with the fight. Spike whipped out his knife and threw it quickly at the demon brandishing the arrow, embedding it in his forehead.

The war waged on for over an hour before the demons stopped coming in through the tunnels. But every once in awhile demons entered through the seal from above.

They were all bloody and battered and running out of steam.

Their energy was starting to wain.

Willow did a quick spell that fell over them, giving them all a small amount of healing and a boost of energy.

That was all they needed to carry on.

Within another half an hour, they had all gotten separated.

Willows head turned quickly when she heard Xander scream in agony.

Xander lowered his head and looked at her, a spear protruding from the center of his chest.

"Will." Xander said before the demon grabbed him and threw his body across the cave, impacting heavily against the wall. His lifeless body falling to the ground.

"NO." Willow screamed as she held her hand out towards the demons, fire shooting out though her fingers. The demons howled in pain as their bodies were consumed by fire.

They all fought harder as the anger boiled through them.

They sliced through the demons furiously trying to get back to one another.

Part 4:

Zaaron had mad it back to Faiths side as they continued to battle their way back to Willow and Giles, who were left unprotected.

Buffy and Spike had been isolated across the cave, not being able to get to each other or back to Willow and Giles.

Buffy swung her sword, decapitating two demons in front of her, giving her a small break to run through, making it half way to Spike.

Spike was moving towards her, slowly, one body at a time. When he killed one he took a step closer.

Willow waived her hand throwing some demons aside allowing Faith and Zaaron to almost reach their side.

"Get to them, I'll meet you there." Spike yelled to Buffy when they were only ten feet apart.

Buffy nodded and slowly tried to make it over to where the others were fighting.

Buffy was almost there when she heard Willow scream and saw her fall to her knees.

Zaaron quickly took out the demon looming over Willow, but not soon enough.

The wound Willow had received was a death blow, there was no surviving it. Only if she healed herself would she survive but she knew Willow wasn't going to do that.

Buffy looked at Spike who saw it happen as well. He turned and looked at Buffy while he took down a demon.

Their eyes locked as they smiled at one another knowing what was going to happen now.

Buffy smile dropped quickly when a sword peirced her chest from behind. She slowly looked up to see Spike trying to get to her.

Buffy fell to the ground as Spike got there, cutting the demon in half.

Willow held her stomach as the blood flowed covering her hands. She looked up through hooded eyes as she saw Buffy fall.

"No." Willow said to herself.

"Get out of here." Willow said as tears flowed down her cheeks.

"You know we can't do that Will." Faith said through clenched teeth as she fought hard.

"Yes you can." Willow said as she started to emit a white glow around her.

The demons backed off and stayed just out of reach but not leaving.

Willow climbed to her feet, a little shakily.

"Help them." She said pointing to Spike who was fightin and trying to carry Buffy back to where they were.

Willows hand moved and the demons were moved like the parting of the red sea, leaving a walkway for Zaaron and Faith to run and bring Spike and Buffy back to them.

"All of you get out." Willow said calmly.

"Willow, no, you're not staying down here alone." Giles said as he held his sword firm.

Willow placed a kiss on his lips.

"I love you." Willow said before walking over to Spike and Zaaron.

"Get him out of here." Willow said.

"Red?" Spike said worriedly.

"I know what I have to do. You've all taken out the brunt of it. I'm the one who closes it. I get it now. Take her, take him and get out." Willow said with a small smile.

"I can't hold them like this forever, I have to break it soon , so I can do what I need to do." Willow said turning her back on everyone her eyes landing on Xander lifeless form.

They moved to the opening, Faith and Zaaron dragged Giles forcibly away from Willow and through the entrance.

Once Buffy and Spike were through, the seal closed with a snap as they heard the roars coming from underneath. They ran when the felt the building and the ground beneath shaking.

They made it down the street only to see the school crumble and fall into the earth much the way of Sunnydale. Only this time it was only half a block, not the whole city.

Giles fell to his knees with his face buried in his hands, as sobs wracked his body.

Zaaron and Faith looked at the devastaton around them.

Knowing they were the ones to survive, but having a hard time accepting it.

Spike fell to his knees as he laid Buffy on the ground.

"Can't keep the promise." Buffy said gasping for air.

"Stay with me. Buffy, don't leave me." Spike said as the tears freely flowed down his face.

"Never leave you." Buffy said quietly.

"You're gonna be fine." Spike said.

"I love you." Buffy said as he she took her last breath.

"No...no no no no." Spike said as he cried.

Spike looked over to Giles, Faith and Zaaron, anguish all over his face.

Giles cried even more. He lost his wife, now he lost the closest thing to a daughter he'd ever have.

Spike looked at them as his brows furrowed.

He turned and looked at Buffys still form before returning his gaze to them.

"Five come out, three walk away." Spike said quietly.

Spike looked down at the ring he was wearing. The one Willow had given him, then glanced at Buffy then the others.

Spike bent down and placed a kiss on Buffy lips. Then raised his head and looked up as the sun began to rise.

Spike pulled the ring off his finger and laid it on Buffy's chest.

He grabbed Buffys hand and held it lovingly as he closed his eyes and smiled when the sun crested over the roof tops, shining on him, turning him to ash with in seconds.

Faith, Zaaron and Giles watched as Spike turned to dust beside Buffys body.

"Three walk away." Zaaron said quietly.

"Do you think it was worth the price?" Faith asked.

"Ask me again in about ten years. Right now, no, it wasn't worth it." Giles replied bitterly.

Faith and Zaaron nodded in agreement as they went over to pick up Buffys body.

Her's was the only one that they were going to be able to have a proper funeral for.

Just as they reached the body, it started to glow, then dsappeared.

They looked at the empty ground where her body had been.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Giles, Faith and Zaaron slowly and quietly made their way back to the cabin as they were supposed to do when the battle ended.

They came into the cabin and saw the package sitting in the mantle above the fireplace.

They grabbed it and opened it.

Inside was a ring looking like the ones Willow had made for Spike and Zaaron, along with a note.

Giles sat down and read the note that was written by Buffy.

" I had a dream. Nothing big or elaborate. I wanted to live a quiet life with the man I love. Surrounded by my friends, my family.

I know that wasn't going to happen.

I had another dream. One not so nice and peaceful.

It showed me the battle and the outcome. I saw my own death.

I knew going into this fight that I wasn't coming out.

I'm still hoping things will turn out differently, I will hope until I know it will come to pass as I've seen it, how it was fortold in the prophecy.

I know Spike will follow my death, he wasn't meant to survive. It will become clear to him in the end.

Xander knew, In my dream I could see it on his face. He was peaceful.

It was over and he could rest.

I never told anyone of this dream. Not even Spike. I kept it to myself. I thought it was better you didn't know the outcome.

In my dream everyone one fought bravely right up until the end.

Willow ended it, I saw it happen. In the end she knew what was to happen too.

For us that don't make it, we know when it happens that it was to happen this way and why. Our deaths are not in vain, it served a purpose, allowing you to survive and carry on for us.

Faith, Zaaron and Giles, you are the survivors.

I don't know what the Gates of Old are, maybe you can figure that out.

Please don't give up because of what you lost. They wouldn't want that. I don't want that. Live like we've been waiting for all these years. Walk in the sun.

I love you.

Buffy.

Giles fell into the chair and held his head in his hands.

"She knew." Giles said as gut wrenching sobs erupted from him as his losses rushed over him again.

"What?" Faith asked as she grabed the letter Giles was holding.

Faith and Zaaron read the letter and lowered themselves to the sofa as they stared blankly at the ring Giles had placed on the table.

"What was the ring for?" Faith asked.

"For Spikes promise to Buffy." Zaaron said quietly.

"What promise?" Giles asked as he looked at the ring before the knowledge of what it stood for became apparent on his face.

Zaaron nodded at Giles as he began explaining it to Faith.

"When all this started Buffy asked Spike to do something for her. Spike told me about it one night. It happened when the sun first disappeared and Giles left them on the porch to gather their thoughts before coming back into the house. Buffy asked him, that if they won the battle with the first, if he'd turn her. Willow was to do the spell right away upon her waking to return her soul. The ring." Zaaron guessed." Willow made up so they could have it all. The night, the day, but always together until they tired of this existence and removed the rings from their fingers and let the light consume them, ending their lives on their own terms." Zaaron said as he let out a deep breath.

"She never said anything." Faith said quietly. "I guess now we know why."

"I wonder how long she'd carried this knowledge. It had to have torn her apart everytime we were all together. Knowing who was going to live, who was to die." Giles said sadly.

"I didn't think it would be me. I always thought that I wouldn't ...." Faith said as she closed her eyes. "It's not right that they're not here." Faith said as her breath hitched.

"No. It's not. They all fought so damn hard for this, they should be here." Zaaron said as anger boiled inside him.

"Well, they're not. We can't change that." Giles said quietly.

Faith looked at Giles a little angry with his quiet but casual tone.

Giles shook his head. "Don't. Don't look at me like that Faith." Giles said as he tried to supress the anger he was feeling.

Faith just shook her head and looked away.

"You think because I'm not screaming and yellng that I'm not hurting. Bloody hell." Giles said as his anger spilled forth. "I just lost the woman I love more than anything. I lost the only daughter I'll ever have. Willow, Buffy and Xander have been the only family I've had for the past fifteen years. Spike was a trusted and reliable friend that became family. The same as you and Zaaron. I lost everyone today Faith. Everyone. We're all that's left. You're damn right I'm angry about it." Giles said as he got up and left the cabin.

Faith leand into Zaaron and closed her eyes.

"I should go after him." Faith said quietly.

"No. Let him go. Wait for awhile. He needs time to himself right now." Zaaron replied.

"Okay, I'll wait for awhile. But I'm still going after him." Faith replied worried as she looked at the cabin door.

Faith and Zaaron sat in silence, thoughts consuming them.

Both of them wanting to follow after Giles, not wanting to let each other out of sight. It was down to the three of them now. They would hold on to each other if it killed them.

They know there will be no more battles, no hell mouths, no demons to fight any longer.

Would they be able to survive in a world where all they had to do.......was live.

How long would the nightmares follow them. How many times of walking around at night would it take before they stopped expecting to have a vampire jump out of the shadows.

How long would it take them to just.......live.

Faith wandered outside, walking slowly in the direction she knew Giles would be.

Faith found him sitting on the beach under the tree where he and Willow had gotten married only days ago.

She came over and sat beside him quietly.

"I'm sorry." Giles replied as tears rolled down his cheek.

"You had to get it out. Don't apologize to me. Not for anything...ever." Faith replied.

"Willow was pregnent." Giles said quietly.

Faith's head turned quickly.

"A couple of years ago. She lost it during one of the battles. I didn't even know. She didn't tell anyone. She knew we would have stopped her from coming in. We found out when we had to take her to the hospital after the battle. She had recieved a heavy blow to her abdomen.

The damage that she had recieved over the years, the doctors told her that she wasn't able to have children anymore. A part of her seemed to die that night. We always talked about having children, even right up until she ........... but we both knew it was never going to happen." Giles said quietly.

"If you could give all this up to have them back, would you do it?" Faith asked.

"I would give it up in a heart beat. But that's not what they would want. We have to do what they would have wanted us to do." Giles said as he wiped his tears away.

"Me too." Faith said. "In a heartbeat."

They both fell into silence as they looked out over the water, remembering those who they have to leave behind.

After an hour they stood up and walked back to the cabin.

They all slept in the livingroom, wanting to be close to one another, not wanting to open their eyes and not be able to see the other.

They woke up and packed up their belongings. Fighting back tears when it came to Buffy and Spike's stuff, which was already packed.

"They never unpacked anything." Faith said as she looked at the bags sitting on the bed.

"I think a part of him knew, even if he never said anything. I think he knew." Zaaron replied quietly.

Zaaron slowly walked over and grabbed their bags and took them out and loaded the SUV.

Faith went through and packed Xanders things, swallowing hard with tears stinging her eyes as she carried it out to the car.

Giles came out shortly after carrying his and Willows bags.

When he placed them in the back of the SUV along with the others, his hand lingered on her bag before pulling away and closing the door.

Zaaron and Faith stood by their car watching as Giles came around to the driver side and opened the door.

"Where are we going?"Faith asked as they opened their doors and started climbing into their car.

"We'll know when we get there." Giles replied as he climbed in and closed his door.

Faith jumped out of the car and pounded on Giles window.

"Giles, Giles. We have to......we forgot." Faith said panicking.

"What?" Giles said worriedly as he opened his door trying to calm her.

Zaaron was by their side within seconds.

"The picture." Faith said as tears started to fall.

Giles closed his eyes.

*The picture* Giles thought. When they first got together after they had separated they started a tradition. A group picture was taken before they went into the battle. One was also taken after the battle before they separated again.

Giles nodded solemnly and went to grab the camera from his bag.

Faith grabbed the bags of their fallen comrades and placed then in a row on the front step. Giles set the time and placed the camera on the hood of the SUV and they all moved and and stood behind the bags, crouched down with their hands ontop of the bags when the timer went off on the camera.

They reloaded the SUV and climbed into their vehicle and drove off down the highway.

Faith and Zaaron following behind Giles, looking for a place to call home.

They had been driving for over a year. Stopping to rest only and grab a bite to eat. Sometimes they just pulled into a treed area and slept there. Other times they'd stay at a motel.

Sometimes staying in a town or city for awhile, but never staying.

The longest they stayed apart in the past year besides sleeping, and more often the not they slept in the same room, was no longer than a couple of hours.

If Giles was gone to long Faith and Zaaron would worry and start looking for him and vise versa.

Even after a year they hadn't been able feel safe. They were protective of one another, blindingly.

One time they had stopped in a bar to have a drink. A woman came over and propositioned Giles. His face had paled as he told her no. The woman however was quite pesistent. Faith stood up and told her to leave. The woman didn't back down. Faith let out some of her anger and had to be pulled off the bloodied body by Giles and Zaaron.

After that they never went into any bars. They stayed out of any where that had alot of people.

They stayed to themselves and minded their own business as they travelled from town to town.

This day was a little different however. As they drove down the highway they came to a sign the said 'Angels Wing ' population 45000.'

They pulled into town and stopped at the first motel they saw.

The air felt different, peaceful, calming. They knew when they stood looking out the window to their room that this was where they were going to call home.

CONTINUED...