~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~
Willow looked across the dark water wondering what they were doing. She glanced at the others, smiling as she saw them laughing and cheerful. They were all there. Buffy and Riley. Xander and Anya. Cordelia and Doyle. Giles. and Spike. She let her eyes linger on the blonde, heat rushing through her. Shaking her head, she glanced back out over the water.
They were spending the week with Angel. She was still shocked that he had invited them to stay over with him. It was spring break back at the college. This was their mini vacation. She wondered what had made the dark haired vampire decide to open up his lake house for them all. It was no secret that he still hated Xander. Giles still had some hidden hate for the whole Jenny episode. Spike and Angel had a very deep disturbed history. She didn't even have to mention Buffy. That was a given in awkwardness. Yet, here they all were.
She would never attempt to understand what Angel was thinking. Maybe he missed the group and thought this was a chance to bring himself back into their fold. Maybe he wanted Buffy back and thought this would be a good chance...she smiled at her own ramblings. Who knew what his motive was. She guessed that she couldn't complain too much. She was glad that he was trying. It also helped that Spike was there. Any time spent with the vampire was a positive for her.
She was in love with him. She had resigned herself to that fact a few months before. She didn't know exactly when or how it had happened, but it had. He, of course, had no idea she was even alive. Only in her dreams. But, boy, were they good dreams. She smiled as she saw a house come into view. That was Angel's idea of a small lake house? It covered a huge span of land. There had to be at least ten bedrooms in it.
She heard the others talking excitedly as it came into view. Everyone except Spike. She knew it must be hard for him to face his sire again. From what she had heard, he had tortured Angel when he had been searching for a ring. Now, he was helpless and at the slayer's mercy. Must be hard to swallow the change of status. She felt her heart go out to him, wishing she could be beside him holding him. Instead, she closed her eyes and took a deep breath. She could do this. It was only a week.
The dark haired vampire looked out onto the dock of the house. He smiled, a wicked gleam in his eyes. He watched his ex-lover and her new boy toy. The moron and his slut. The watcher. His partner and his secretary. He let his eyes find Spike. He noticed Willow glancing at the blonde when he wasn't looking. He chuckled when he saw Spike doing the same to the redhead. Willow and Spike. Now that was an interesting tidbit of knowledge to store.
He focused on Spike again, ignoring the others. He had plans for his wayward childe. Hell, he had plans for them all. Spike and Willow. They would be the last, he decided. He could have such fun with them both. He suddenly laughed. This was one week they would never forget.
**********
"Angel" Willow said softly, embracing the dark haired vampire.
She felt his hands on her back, pulling her closer. She heard a soft growl behind her and pulled back, staring in surprise at Spike.
Angel smiled, keeping his hand on Willow's back. He let his arm fall around her shoulders as he smirked at his childe. "Spike. Nice to see you."
"Peaches" Spike said through clenched teeth.
He asked himself again why he was there. He could have had a nice week Scooby free in Sunnydale. Instead he found himself on an island in the middle of a lake in upstate California with the entire gang and his bleeding sire.
Angel greeted the others, keeping his arm around Willow. He caught her startled stare and smiled slightly. This was going to be so much fun.
"Nice place you got here, Deadboy" Xander commented.
"Thanks for inviting us" Buffy said softly, feeling pangs for her old lover.
She felt Riley beside her and smiled at her new love. She was over Angel, but he would always have a special place in her heart. She would never forget him.
"I thought you might need a break" Angel said, looking at the boy beside her.
This was who she chose to replace him with? This oafish looking, big headed farm boy? He couldn't believe it. She seemed happy though. He guessed that was important. Who the fuck was he kidding? She had gotten over him too quick. It hurt his ego and his heart. Damn bitch. He caught his thoughts, knowing he couldn't blame her. He almost laughed at that. Not like he'd blame himself, he decided.
"It is very appreciated" Giles said, wondering at the gleam in the vampire's eyes. Something was off, he decided. Angel seemed much less broody. He also wouldn't let go of Willow, another cause for concern in Giles book.
"Come. I'll show you to your rooms. Willow, I've put you next to me. I know how difficult it is for you to sleep at night. Didn't want the others to be annoyed. Besides, I never sleep at night." Angel said softly to the girl. He saw Spike glaring at him and raised a brow at his childe.
Willow was uncomfortable. She couldn't pin point exactly why, but she was. Angel had changed since she had last seen him. She could write it up to LA but he didn't seem that bad. She did wish he would keep his hands to himself. His touch wasn't sexual or threatening, it was more reassuring than anything. She just didn't like it very much. He was up to something. She could see that much in his eyes and his voice. She just wondered what.
Angel showed them to their rooms, making sure he put Spike across the hall from Willow. He listened as the doors shut and everyone began to get ready for sleep. He got his cell phone, hitting one button.
"Yeah?" a husky voice spoke.
"It's time. They're all here. You ready?" Angel spoke quickly.
A laugh, "I think the question should be are they ready."
Angel smiled, "Oh they will be. Trust me on that one. Give me a day or two. We start on Wednesday. They won't know what hit them."
"Sure thing boss. We'll be ready."
"Be sure of that" Angel said, hanging the phone up. He sat on the bed and smiled. This was going to be the most fun.
**********
"I hate them all" Spike said, glowering at his sire.
"Really?" Angel said, rolling his eyes.
He had listened to Spike for the last hour. All the blonde vampire could do was gripe about his current condition. He wanted nothing more than to beat some sense into the bastard. But, he had gained amazing insight into the gang.
"Yeah. The slayer? She's a little harlot. Complete trash. The others I don't even think about" Spike said, taking another drink from the bottle.
"Not even Willow?" Angel asked, smiling slightly.
"Nuh uh. Can't think about her. Get staked thinking those kinds of thoughts" Spike said.
"Oh...." Angel paused, "So Buffy would stake you for thinking what kind of thoughts about Willow?"
"I" Spike halted, suddenly looking at Angel. "No way. Not gonna tell you. You'd run to the bitch and tell just to see me dusted."
Angel took an unnecessary breath, "Spike, if I wanted you dusted I'd do it myself. Now, what kinds of thoughts have you been having about Willow? Come on, my boy. Tell Daddy all about it."
"Want her." Spike mumbled, taking another drink. "Want to fuck her hard and fast...want to hear her scream my name as she cums...want to be the first man that touches her...that makes her cum..."
"She's still a virgin?" Angel said surprised.
He had thought she and the little mutt had gone at it in high school.
"Yeah...heard her talking to the slayer about it...she and the dog boy almost did something but she said it didn't feel right. She luffs me I think..."
Angel kept his expression neutral, "You think she loves you yet you haven't tried to have sex with her?"
"Nope...stake right through the heart if I even leer at her. Pfft. I'd be dust." Spike made a face and demonstrated.
Angel leaned back and smiled. The truth serum was working wonders on his childe. His source had assured him that it would. He was learning everything he needed, albeit unknowingly from Spike.
"So, you want the redhead. You could care less about the others...wouldn't matter if they all died...." Angel said, seeing his childe nod. "Just a cold hearted unfeeling bastard still aren't you Spike?"
"Yeah, that's me. Cold. My own man. Don't need any of them." Spike said, taking another drink. "They could all die and I wouldn't give a shit."
Angel nodded, smiling. The group had been there a day so far. They had all been watched, studied. He knew exactly what to do when the games began.
Knowing that Spike was still under the influence of the serum, he asked, "So...tell me about the slayer's new pup....
**********
Spike woke up, his vision blurred. He sat up, holding his head. He had no idea what had happened to him. One minute he was drinking the next he was waking up with a pounding headache. Alcohol usually didn't affect him, but he felt like he had been dragged through the streets.
He vaguely remembered talking to his sire. His brow creased as he tried to remember what it had been about. Something about the slayer and her new man. Willow...his eyes widened. Fuck it all. He'd told Angel about his lust for the redhead. He glanced down, making sure he wasn't really a pile of dust. Angel hadn't told the slayer?
He stood, pulling on his jeans. He looked around but couldn't find his shirt. Who knew where it was? He went to the bathroom and splashed water on his face. Anything to wake himself up. His mind felt as though it had been in a fog. He heard a soft knock and scowled. He went to the door, opening it suddenly.
"What?" he barked out.
Willow looked at him, her eyes widening as she took in his pale half nude form. She felt her pulse race as a warmth moved through her body.
"Uh Angel asked me to wake you..."
"Bleeding sot. I was sleeping." Spike said, intentionally being rude. He couldn't let any of them know where his mind was when he looked at the girl.
"Sorry" Willow said softly, turning to move away. "Oh...I found this outside my door" she turned and handed him his black t-shirt.
Spike frowned as he took it, "Outside your door?"
She shrugged, "Don't ask me. It was just there this morning. I'll tell Angel you're sleeping."
"No...I'll be down. Got to see what Daddy wants." Spike frowned, again wondering what had happened the night before.
"Ok" Willow siad quietly, taking one last lustful look at his body. She moved to the stairs and headed downstairs.
Spike pulled the shirt over his head, a small smile crossing his lips as he watched her disappear. Closing his eyes, he groaned. He was such a fucking wanker around her. He headed down the stairs to follow her. He had to find out exactly what he had told Angel the night before.
***********
"Go fish" Willow said, chewing her bottom lip.
She looked at the cards in her hand and frowned. Only she could lose a continuous hour of Go Fish. She glared at Buffy who had only one card left. Damn lucky bitch. Shaking her head slightly, she waited for her turn.
Spike sat in a chair by the fireplace. His eyes were on Willow, as always. He watched her pink tongue dart out to lick her bottom lip and thought he might burst on the spot. His cock throbbed even more when he saw her teeth nip at her bottom lip. Whimpering softly, he tried to tear his eyes away without success.
Angel watched his childe watch Willow. Those two were rather amusing. Now that he knew what to look for, he was surprised to say that the others were completely oblivious. Spike practically melted any time she looked at him, though he tried to cover it up with anger. Angel knew him too well not to see through it all. They were making this game particularly interesting. He wondered if they would ever throw away the past and fuck like wild animals. He smiled slightly at the idea.
His eyes caught Cordelia walking into the room. She looked upset. The smile deepened. The games were about to begin it seemed.
He made his face look worried as he spoke to her, "Is something wrong Delia?"
"I can't find Doyle" she said, looking around. "Have any of you seen him?"
"He isn't here" Buffy said. "Want some help looking?"
Cordelia sighed, "No...I'm probably over reacting. Knowing him he took a bottle to some quite place and drunk himself silly."
"Stable fellow you have" Xander commented dryly.
Anya hit him. He looked at her in surprise. "What?"
"You're mine. Not hers. Quit picking on her lover." Anya said, glaring at him.
Cordelia smiled at the ex demon, "Thank you."
Anya snorted, "Just reminding him who he belongs to."
"If you see Doyle, tell him I went upstairs. I think I want to take a nap." Cordelia said, heading upstairs.
Angel waited, counting in his mind. Soon. He watched everyone settle back into what they had been doing. Shouldn't be much longer now. He watched them all, unaware of what lay in store for them.
Suddenly, a loud shriek filled the house as Cordelia screamed, "Doyle! No! Help!!!! Oh god..NO!"
Standing, he smiled at the ground. The others hurried up the stairs. A gleam entered his eyes. It had started.
**********
Willow made it to Cordelia's room first. She opened the door, her eyes widening as she took in the scene. Cordelia was sitting on the bed, blood everywhere. She could make out Doyle's dark head in the brunette's embrace.
Cordelia looked up at her, her eyes dazed, "He won't wake up."
"Damn" she heard several people say behind her.
She heard running and knew that someone had gone to throw up. The blood was awful. There was so much of it. She felt Angel push past her, moving to Cordelia's side.
"Delia...let him go. He's gone" Angel said quietly.
"No...he's just sleeping." Cordelia insisted.
"Delia. Come on. We need to get this cleaned up...he's dead."
Cordelia looked at Angel, her face breaking. "He can't be dead...he left me..."
"It doesn't look like he had much choice" Willow said quietly, moving into the room.
Angel glanced at her, "No, it doesn't. Why don't you take Cordelia to your room. She needs to wash up and could probably use some sleep."
Willow nodded, taking the sobbing girl into her arms. "Do you have any pills?"
Angel nodded, "I think she has some in her bag. Watch her. I'll look into this and see what we have on our hands."
"Need any help?" Buffy asked, not looking at the bloody scene in front of her.
"I can handle it. Go back downstairs. Finish your game."
"Finish our game? The bloke was slashed to pieces. Doesn't make me feel very comfortable" Spike said, glaring at his sire.
"Spike. Not now. Go downstairs....or see if Willow could use some help with Delia."
"Fine" Spike said, moving down the hall to Willow's room.
Buffy took one last look at the room, curiosity in her eyes. She wanted to know what had done that to Doyle...and if it was still around. She was pushed out the door by Angel, a small smile on his lips as he turned back to look at the bed. One down. Eight to go.
**********
Willow didn't know what to do. Something was happening and for some reason no one was concerned. Doyle was dead. Cordelia was freaked out. She was worried. Spike was acting weird as was Angel. Yet everyone wanted to go on as though it were just a regular spring break. She was actually getting irritated with them all.
"He's dead isn't he?" Cordelia asked quietly.
"Yes" Willow said, her eyes watching the girl's face.
Cordelia nodded, "I thought so. Would you mind if I slept here tonight?"
"No problem. I'm going downstairs for a bit. Try to take a nap. If you need me, call. Ok?"
Cordelia nodded, looking back out the long glass window. She sighed, her cheek resting against the cold door. Willow looked at her, reluctant to leave. She decided she should stay. Cordelia didn't need to be left alone. Now right after finding Doyle's body.
"On second thought, I think I may just read a bit."
Cordelia looked at her, her eyes angry, "I don't need a babysitter. Go downstairs. I just want to be alone."
"Are you sure?" Willow asked concerned.
Cordelia smiled, "Thank you for worrying...it means a lot to me. But I really do want to be alone right now."
"You're my friend...despite all the things we've been through. Of course I'm worried." Willow said, watching Cordelia.
Cordelia moved from the window, hugging Willow tightly. "You're one of my only true friends Willow. Be careful, ok?"
Willow looked at her confused, "Careful?"
Cordelia nodded, "Promise me. And remember, sometimes things aren't always what they seem....just be cautious ok?"
"What's wrong?" Willow asked.
Cordelia just shook her head sadly, "Nothing...I'm just tired. I think I'd like that nap now."
"Sleep well...remember, if you need me, just call."
"Go." Cordelia said, pushing Willow out of the room. The redhead ran into Spike who was about to knock. Cordelia looked between the two before smiling slightly. She winked at Willow before shutting the door.
"She ok?" Spike asked.
"Why would you care?" Willow asked, moving to the stairs.
"What?" Spike asked, moving to follow her.
"Spike, we know you hate us all. Don't act worried just for appearances."
"I am worried. The poor chit saw her lover mutilated. Not something easy even for that bitch." Spike said.
Willow started to speak when she heard glass breaking. She heard a scream that sounded like Cordelia and froze. "No!"
She and Spike ran back upstairs, opening her door. She saw the curtain blowing in the breeze and screamed. She ran to the window, stepping in the broken glass. Looking out the window, she saw Cordelia laying on the ground, blood on the ground around her. She turned her head, Spike's arms going around her. She cried.
**********
"Where is she?" Willow asked, walking into the living room.
Buffy looked up, her face confused, "Who?"
"Cordelia. Didn't you hear the scream? She's dead."
"That is so not funny" Xander said, glaring at her.
"Red's right. The chit jumped. I saw her myself" Spike said.
"We didn't hear anything" Anya pointed out, wondering what game they were playing.
"None of you heard her? I mean, we were walking down the stairs when we heard her scream...the glass broke. She was laying on the ground...blood." Willow drifted off, memories of what she had seen in her mind.
"God...I didn't hear anything" Buffy said, standing. "Come on. We'll get her."
Willow and Spike followed the others as they went outside. Willow froze, staring at the spot. "She was here. Right here. See the glass? Where did she go?"
Buffy knelt down, running her fingers over the sidewalk. She showed them her fingers, blood dripping from them. "There is blood."
"What the fuck is going on?" Spike demanded.
"I'm scared" Anya said, looking into the shadows surrounding them.
"Me too" Buffy echoed. "This is too weird. I want to leave."
"Where is Giles?" Willow asked suddenly, looking around.
"God no...We have to find him" Buffy said, worry in her voice.
"Speaking of missing, where is our wonderful host?" Spike remarked dryly.
"What are you saying?" Riley asked, knowing the vampire well enough to know something was on his mind.
"All this? It's a set up. Some sort of game. We walked right into it. Easy prey." Spike said, disgust in his voice. "I knew better. I even told Red this sounded fishy. Peaches isn't the type to invite us all out for a vacation."
"Oh no..." Willow said, suddenly understanding what he was saying.
"What?" Buffy asked, hating the link her friend and the vampire seemed to share.
"Angelus" Willow whispered.
"No...He was Angel...I know the difference...He had his soul!" Buffy said, Riley's arms going around her.
"No other solution" Spike said. "Besides, I can smell Angelus on this from a mile away."
"Angelus?" they said quietly, not wanting to believe that they all might die.
**********
"I don't like this."
"Neither do I. Not much anyway."
"You're full of it. I can see it in your eyes. You're getting off on it all."
"Please...I don't think so. This wasn't my idea, if you remember?"
"Technicality. You like it."
"Maybe...just a little."
Ahem. "Honesty here. Remember?"
"Fine. You're right. I do love this. Especially since I had no choice in it all."
"I feel bad....Like I'm betraying someone or something."
"Don't. We had no choice. We have to do as we're told. Besides, the poof here is enjoying it all enough for all of us."
"I know...just, the looks on their faces. I don't like this. I just wanted to register my complaint."
"Taken and noted. As I said, I'm not thrilled about it either. You know what they think about me now."
"Well, in a way they're right. I see him in your eyes when you're playing with them. How far does this have to go?"
"Until there is one."
"Wonder who it will be...."
"That's easy. It will be either Buffy or Willow. Brawn or the brain."
"I wouldn't rule out Spike either. What if there are two?"
"What do you mean?"
"Did you see the looks Spike and Willow are exchanging? I mean, almost melted the ice in the drinks at dinner. Wow. What if they end up together at the end?"
"Hmm....interesting question. I'll have to try to find out. I'm sure there can be two, might be easier in the long run. But, we can't help decide."
"I know. I know....though I see some things thrown a certain blonde vampire's way..."
"Like those little words to a certain redhead?"
"What can I say? I want her to make it."
"The same here...Spike is my favorite childe. He needs this, I think."
"Maybe we can help....just a little."
"I like the way you think...."
Cordelia leaned back against Doyle, his arms around her waist. Giles smiled at them, turning away from their conversation. She exchanged a cunning look with Angel.
"Just a little help...between friends."
**********
"Giles!" Willow called out, knocking on the watcher's door. She exchanged looks with the others, frowning.
"Let me try" Riley said, pounding against the wood. "He's not in there."
"He has to be. The door is locked from the inside." Buffy pointed out.
"Let me" Spike said, moving the slayer's pet out of the way. He kicked the door, causing it to swing open. Splinters of wood hung from the doorframe. "Works every time" he said, smiling at Willow.
She smiled slightly, worry not letting her be amused. She moved into the room, her eyes looking over the contents. The others followed her in, calling out Giles' name.
She moved to the bathroom, opening the door. She gasped as she saw blood covering the white tile of the shower. Spike moved behind her, looking at the scene. He put an arm around her shoulders, giving her reassurance. His blue eyes left no detail unturned as he studied the bathroom.
The others noticed their reaction and moved to their side. Buffy made a face as she looked at all the blood, her mind not wanting to believe.
"I'm going to be sick" Xander said, rushing from the room. Anya went behind him to help.
"Giles...not Giles" Buffy said, moving into Riley's arms. He glanced at Willow and saw her motion him to leave. He took the upset slayer out into the hall, leaving Willow and Spike alone.
Spike saw Willow's concerned look and halted. His eyes locked with hers, a strange feeling passing over them. They couldn't break the gaze as pent up emotions hit them. He reached up, brushing his fingers over her cheek.
"We need to talk, pet" he said softly, cursing his instant reaction to her.
"I know" she said quietly, loving the cold feel of him against her heated body. She shook her thoughts, knowing they had a huge problem to deal with.
Spike moved his hand, turning to close the door of the room. He turned back to her and saw her perched on the side of the bed. He moved a chair closer to her, not sure how to say what he had to say.
"It isn't him" Willow said, watching him for his reaction.
Spike smiled, having further proof that they were meant for each other, "Just what I was thinking."
"This...all of this....it doesn't fit." Willow said, motioning to the room.
"Not Angelus' MO so to speak. Too messy. He'd play at it longer. This isn't his style...I should know."
"I understand. I've read about him...Hell, I remember what he did when he was back two years ago. He liked to torment and torture. This...this is too easy."
"If it isn't him, who is it?" Spike asked.
"I don't know. It almost seems unreal. I mean, like a game or something...But, I have a feeling it is very serious." She stopped suddenly, "Wait! Cordelia told me not to trust what I see....that things aren't always what they seem...do you think..I mean, I don't know...could she be in on it too?"
"Anything is possible. IF someone or something is having Angel do this...with or without the bimbo's help, we need to know why and for what reason. There are only six of us left now..."
"Us?' Willow said, smiling softly. "Thought you didn't care if we all died."
"Only if I'm the one to kill you all. Don't want to be robbed of that pleasure." He smirked, before growing serious, "We have an even bigger problem, pet."
"What?" Willow asked, fearing his answer.
Spike ran a hand through his blonde hair, "The blood in the bathroom there? It wasn't human...it was pig's blood."
**********
"I'm not staying here" Anya said, looking at the others.
"Where do you think you're going to go?" Buffy asked, her voice broken. Riley held her, brushing her hair softly with his fingers.
"I don't care. I won't stay here to die. Come on Xander. Maybe the boat is still there."
"Xander, you can't go. It's too dangerous. We don't even know what is doing all this. If it's Angelus, he'll kill you." Riley said.
"I can't stay here, man. Fuck. Three people are dead. Three of my friends. If we stay here, we're sitting ducks."
"Why don't we all go" Anya suggested.
She looked at the slayer and frowned. The girl was losing it since she found all the blood in the watcher's bathroom.
"I'm not leaving until I find Giles' body. Fine, ya'll can run. I'm staying. I have to." Buffy decided.
"Whatever. Just sit here and wait until he finds you....good plan to me. We're going" Anya said, taking Xander's arm.
Xander hugged Buffy, "Be careful. We'll try to find someone to help...how cliched does that sound?"
"Go on...I'll find the others. I have to. I'm the slayer."
"I'll take care of her." Riley said, shaking Xander's hand. "Good luck."
Xander and Anya left, taking their coats and two flashlights. Buffy looked around the room, finding Riley's eyes, "Do you think we're going to die here?"
"I don't know...I really don't know." Riley said, holding her close. He closed his eyes, not wanting to remember the situation they were facing.
**********
"Pig's blood? Are you sure?" Willow asked, stunned by his revelation.
"Pet, I'm over a hundred years old. I know the scent of human blood."
"Oh that's right....sorry" Willow said, sometimes forgetting just how old he really was. "Wait! What about Doyle?"
"Doyle? What about him?" Spike asked, not following her mind's path.
"The blood...was it his?"
Spike thought about it. He slowly shook his head, "I don't remember smelling human's blood. Didn't even think about it. Figured since he was half demon and all that it just smelled different. Damn it. It's been a set up the whole time hasn't it?"
Willow sadly shook her head yes, "It appears so. I can't believe that Giles knew about it...Goddess...why?"
"That I don't know, luv. Fucking poof and his games. This isn't funny!" he yelled out, kicking the side of the bed.
"What if it isn't a game?" Willow asked suddenly.
"It has to be" Spike said, angry that she was defending his sire.
"Think about it. What if someone or something is forcing them to do this?"
"Who and why? What good does it do us thinking the gang is slowly being massacred?" Spike pointed out.
"Good point...I just don't believe that Cordelia was acting like it was a game. She was so serious...."
Spike nodded, "Fine. We'll consider that. The question then is who and why, as I just said. Also, do we tell the others about our suspicions?"
"No....I don't want to worry them until we know something for sure. I guess we need to start looking for clues."
Spike smiled slightly. He was going to get spend time with her while they tried to figure this out. At least this dark cloud had a silver lining, "Come on then partner. Let's find some answers."
Willow laughed softly, trust Spike to try to lighten the mood. She looked at him gratefully. "Good plan, partner."
**********
Willow and Spike walked downstairs. She went into the lounge, her eyes looking for Buffy and the others. She looked back at Spike.
"They aren't here."
Spike laughed, "Wow. Really? Luv, if those are your best detective skills, we may be here awhile."
Willow hit him hard on the shoulder, "Shut up blondie. Where the hell are they?"
"Here slayer slayer slayer" Spike called out. "Don't appear to be here."
"We've established that. Damn stupid vampire. I asked where they could be."
"Stupid? You're calling me stupid? Well, fine." Spike frowned, moving into the game room.
"Damn it. Spike. I didn't mean that. Good grief. You insulted me too." Willow said, running after him.
Spike turned, a smile on his lips, "Apology forgiven...what are you going to do to make the pain go away?"
Willow laughed, "I fell for it again. One of these days I'm just going to let you sulk."
"No you won't. You're too soft. Now, if I were a brainless slayer where would I be...."
"Soft?" Willow echoed. She saw him smirk at her. "You just wish you knew how soft" she taunted, turning away from him and strutting to the next room.
Spike let his hungry eyes follow her. To hell with the slayer and his sire's damn game. He moved quickly, trapping her against the wall. His lips claimed hers, a flame slowly spreading over them. Willow moved in closer, her hands on his back.
Spike moved his hands up to cup her breasts as his tongue swept deeper into her mouth. He rubbed the hard nipples through the fabric of her shirt, wishing that there were no barriers between them. He wanted nothing more than to take her there and then against the wall. Just sink into her warmth and never leave.
Willow pulled away, gasping for breath. She looked at Spike in surprise. She felt his erection against her stomach as she arched against him.
"What was that?"
Spike smiled at the passion in her eyes and the huskiness of her voice. She was as affected as he was. "Just finding out how soft you are, pet." he said, squeezing her breast for emphasis.
"Oh" Willow said, oddly hurt by his flippitant remark. She wanted to hear him say something more...not some rude ass comment. "Can we find Buffy now?"
Spike turned away from the hurt in her eyes. Damn it. He'd done it again. For some reason, around Willow, his foot just stayed in his mouth. He was beginning to hate the taste of leather. "Yeah...we can find the little slayer. Maybe she'll know something, though that in itself would be weird."
"Let's go" Willow said keeping her voice neutral. She didn't want him to know how his kiss had affected her.
**********
"Let me go" Buffy said, pulling against Riley.
Riley held her tight. "No. You're upset. I'm not letting you wander around here alone."
"Riley. Let. Me. Go." She said, kicking his knee.
"Buffy, stop it. You're freaked out. Giles death is messing with your mind. You are in no shape to face whatever this is. Especially not if it is Angelus."
"Giles isn't dead. He can't be. I'll find him. No matter who I have to go through.' Buffy said, her eyes slightly crazy.
"I'm not letting you kill yourself. And going off alone in the state you are in would be suicide." Riley said, his voice forceful. "I love you, Buffy."
"I love you too Riley. That's why I hate to do this." Buffy said, hitting him hard against the face. She watched him fall and smiled sadly, "I have to save them...I'm the slayer."
Riley sat up, watching as she ran off. He called out her but she ignored him. He stood, looking around the dark house. Damn it. She was crazy. She was taking Giles and the others deaths badly. "Aack!" he screamed as he felt a hand on his shoulder.
"Yikes!" Xander yelled, jumping back and bumping into Anya. "Riley...what is it?"
"You! I thought you two left."
Anya and Xander exchanged a look, "We couldn't leave you alone to face whatever this is. We had to come back. Where are the others?"
"I haven't seen Willow or Spike since upstairs. Buffy is nuts. She just hit me and ran off. She is going to try to hunt down whatever this is. I'm worried about her man."
"The slayer is very unstable. If she runs across this demon or Angelus, she's dead." Anya said simply.
"Allrighty then. On that happy note, let's find the others and get out of here." Xander said.
*********
Buffy made it the attic. She looked around, knowing she had to find something soon. She couldn't believe she had hit Riley. He was just trying to protect her. Didn't he realize that protecting was her job?
"Hello?" she called suddenly. She heard more shuffling. Someone was there. "Who is it?"
She watched as Giles stepped into the moonlight. He just looked at her and shook his head, "I'm disappointed in you Buffy."
"You're not dead?" she asked, confused.
He ignored her question, "Buffy is next."
"Who are you talking to?" she asked, looking behind her. She froze as she saw Angel standing with Cordelia. They just shook their heads at her.
"Some slayer" Cordelia remarked.
Angel just smiled softly, "It's time to die, Buffy."
Buffy screamed as they moved forward.
**********
"That was Buffy" Willow said, hearing the scream.
"Damn it. Fool slayer won't stay in place" Spike said, heading to the stairs.
"Come on. It was from somewhere up here." Willow said, moving up the stairs quickly.
The two searched the rooms and found nothing. "Where is she?"
Suddenly, a sound could be heard. Willow froze, looking at Spike. "There are more stairs here somewhere."
"The attic" he said, almost hitting himself.
The two ran to the door that led up to the attic. Willow opened the door, screaming. She moved into Spike, his arms going around her.
He stared at the stairs, realizing what had made the thumping noise they had heard. There, on the last step, was the slayer's head. He felt disgust well up inside him. He wanted the slayer dead, but not like that. He kissed Willow's forehead, reassuring her that she wasn't alone.
Willow moved away from him, her green eyes tear soaked. She paused, looking into his eyes. "What is happening?"
"I wish I knew pet" he replied.
Willow looked back down at the stairs. Suddenly, she frowned. She leaned over, reaching for the head. Her hand went through it. "Fuck! It's magic. It's not her."
Spike felt anger go through him. Someone was messing with their minds. Why? "Magic? The poof doesn't know magic."
"But Giles does" Willow said softly. She looked at Spike, her gaze thoughtful, "they didn't we'd touch it. They want us to think that Buffy is dead. They are playing with us...damn it. Why?"
"Good question pet. I think it's time to find some answers. This is growing annoying."
"How do we get answers? None of them are around." Willow said, not looking at her friend's head. She knew it wasn't real, but it didn't make it any easier to see it's dead eyes watching her. She shut the door.
"The poof. Always right everything down. We find his room and search it. There has to be something useful in there."
"His room is next to mine. Do you really think he'd leave something important just laying around?"
"This is Peaches. Not that bright." Spike clarified.
Willow smiled suddenly, "Jealousy reers it's ugly head."
"Fuck you Red. I ain't jealous of that gelled hair nancy boy."
"Sure thing. Come on Spike. You know you're number one in my book." Willow said, taking his arm.
"I am? Well, of course I am." He said, following her down the hall to his sire's room.
Buffy looked at Giles. "She knew it wasn't me."
"Of course she did" Cordelia said, "She's going to make it. I knew she would."
"I'd say Spike is holding his own" Angel pointed out proudly.
"What about the others? Is Riley ok? I can't believe how I was acting..." Buffy said.
"Eh, don't fret lass. All will end well. Just have to wait and see who is next" Doyle said, taking a drink.
"What happens if Willow and Spike figure it all out before there is only one or two left?" Cordelia asked.
Angel shrugged, "I'd assume that meant they were the ones that would end up 'living' so they would win. They didn't think anyone would figure it out, so I don't really know. We can wait and see."
"Wait and see. How fun." Cordelia said drolly.
**********
Willow slammed the bureau drawer shut and sighed, "Nothing in here at all."
Spike was kneeling in the closet, looking through several boxes. He sat up, running a hand over his face, "I can't find anything here at all."
"Great. Just great. Thought Angel always wrote notes to himself?" she said, sitting on the bed.
"He used to, pet." Spike said, his eyes glittering with rage. "Damn it. There has to be something here."
"Why do you care anyway? I mean, Buffy is either dead or on their side now. Hell, for all we know, everyone was in on it from the beginning. It's a big fat joke on us." Willow said, her face growing disturbed. "Did you hear that guys? We're on to you! Come out and laugh and everything will be forgiven."
Spike moved to the bed, sitting beside her. He took her in his arms, whispering softly to her. He couldn't imagine what the girl must be going through. It wasn't as bad for him. There were only two people he loved involved in all this. Angel and Willow. He had one of them beside him though. And he didn't plan on allowing anything to happen to her.
"I care because whatever it is might decide to come after you." He said softly, admitting his feelings out loud for the first time.
Willow pulled back and looked at him, her eyes shining, "What?"
"I love you Red. I want to find out whatever this is before I lose you...before I even have you" he broke off, looking away. Damn, he was worse than the poof.
"You love me?" Willow said, smiling softly. "You already have me Spike."
"What?" he asked, looking at her. He saw the smile and brought a hand to her face. "I have you?"
"Forever" she said, leaning up to kiss him.
Spike pushed her back against Angel's bed, his mouth not leaving hers. He smiled as he began to kiss her face...moving down to her neck. She came alive at his touch. Willow knew they should be searching for answers, but she had to have this. It might be her last chance for all she knew. She wanted to make love to Spike before letting the nightmare intrude into her reality again.
**********
"Does anyone else feel that someone should suddenly say Scooby Doo where are you?" Xander asked, walking through the dark mansion.
Riley almost laughed, "I know what you mean. The decorator for this place took gothic and dark to heart I think."
Anya looked at them, "I actually rather like the decore. Reminds me of the Addams Family in a way."
"Ah, thank god for re-runs." Xander said, hugging his lover tight. He almost wished that they hadn't come back. If they had found a boat, they might be at shore by now. But, he couldn't leave his friends. No matter how scared he was.
"Second best way to spend a quiet morning at home" Anya said, smirking at Xander.
Riley shook his head and rolled his eyes. Those two were terrible. But, he could see the love that they shared. It was nice being around them. He stopped when he heard a scream. "That was Buffy!"
"Fuck no!" Xander said, the pleasantness leaving the situation.
"Can we leave now?" Anya asked. She hadn't survived over a thousand years as as a demon to die within a two years of becoming a human.
"We have to find Buffy. She's in trouble" Riley said, looking worried.
"Wait!" Xander called out as the man took off. "Great. Just great. Now he can run off and get killed. I hate this place. I knew we shouldn't have trusted Deadboy. Damn stupid vampire." Xander said.
Anya looked at him, "Leave now. Please?"
Xander slowly shook his head. "Not without Willow and Spike. Fuck, did I just say I was going to risk my life for Spike?"
Anya smiled slightly, "Yes. I think so."
"I'm insane. That's all it can be. Completely loopy. Hell, let's get them and get out of here. I hope Riley is ok."
"He's probably already dead" Anya commented as she prayed that they found Willow and Spike soon.
"Nice thought, lover" Xander said, making a face as his arm went around her.
"Do I get a scooby snack?" she asked, hoping to make him smile. It worked. Xander laughed as he kissed her lightly.
"That's my girl. Come on. Let's make it out of here alive and I'll buy you an entire box" he promised. "Willow and Spike first though. Won't leave without them."
"IF they're still alive."
Xander smiled, "It takes more than a scary house and screams to kill Willow. Trust me on that one. They're alive. We'll find them. Then, we leave."
**********
Willow felt Spike's tongue push into her mouth. She whimpered as he covered her body with his. She felt the pillow behind her as they fell to the bed. She let her hands wander over his back, going down to cup his ass. She squeezed, whimpering as she tried to get closer to him. Vaguely, she had the thought that this wasn't the right time. She felt his cold hand on her breast and forgot what she was thinking. His mouth moved over hers, their tongues battling for dominance.
Spike moved into her, his cock hard against his jeans. He rubbed his erection against her, groaning at the friction. He let his mouth move over her face, kissing the flesh as he moved down her throat. He sucked the flesh into his mouth, nipping at it with his blunt teeth. He let his hand knead her breast, his thumb rubbing over the nipple. He heard her whimper at his touch and smiled against her neck. This was right. He felt his cock throb as he moved his mouth down to her breast. He licked at it through the cloth of her shirt, dampening the material.
Willow gasped as she felt his cold hand on her stomach. She suddenly sat up, pushing him back. "We can't do this."
"What?" he asked, knowing she was as aroused as he was.
"Don't you know anything. In scary movies, once the characters have sex, they die. Besides, we have to find Xander and Anya. I know that Buffy is probably dead. But we still don't know about Riley either."
"You don't want me" he said softly, knowing in his mind that she was right but not able to accept that.
"Yes I do...so much. For so long....this just isn't the time. I want us to be together without the threat of death hanging over our heads." Willow said, her eyes begging him to understand.
"I know what you mean....I want you so bad, but not like this. Not rushed. It is going to be your time...our first time. I want it to be perfect. After this is all over, we can take a week and just explore each other" he promised.
"A week?" Willow whispered, smiling at the look of lust in his eyes.
Suddenly, the door burst open. "It's about time!" Xander said, coming into the room.
"Xander? Anya?Where have you been?" Willow asked, glancing down to make sure her shirt was fastened. It was.
Anya smirked, "Well, we didn't run to bed."
Willow started blushing, "Uh..right. Where are Buffy and Riley?"
"Buffy's gone. She ran off. We heard her scream and then Riley took off. We lost them both." Xander said, sitting and frowning.
"Great. We found Buffy...well, her head. But it was a glamour of some sort." Willow said.
"Her head?" Anya said, frowning."What is going on?"
"It's some sort of bloody game or such" Spike said, his arm around Willow possessively.
"Well, at least we're all together now" Xander said.
"Time to try to figure this out." Willow said, sighing. "I'm getting real tired of this."
**********
"Buffy! Where are you?" Riley called out. He opened another door, looking inside for his lover. He frowned as it again was a dead end. He had heard her scream. He knew she was in danger. She had to be there somewhere.
"Riley" the voice called to him.
Riley moved quickly, heading in the direction of her call. She was still alive. She needed him. He opened a door and saw stairs. He flipped the light but nothing happened. Cursing, he began to make his way up the stairs. He put one foot out and felt his way up the dark staircase. His hands stayed on the rail as he tried to adjust to the darkness.
"Buffy! I'm coming to save you" he called out, praying that she was ok. He put his foot on the next stair and moved up one more. Shouldn't have many more. Suddenly, a light shined. He saw Buffy watching him sadly.
"You came for me" she said simply, love in her eyes but sadness on her face.
"I love you" he said simply.
"I love you too" she smiled slightly. "You lose."
"What?" he asked confused. Suddenly, the stairs shifted. He clung to the rail as they became a slide underneath his feet. He saw the light dim as the rail began to buckle under his hands. He felt himself begin to slide down. Suddenly, his hands were pierced with blades. Screaming, he jerked his hands up, losing his balance. He slid backwards, his head hitting the ground hard as he his body slid into the darkness.
Buffy sniffled as she wiped away a tear. She had hoped he might last longer. She felt good that his love for her had been the thing that had destroyed him, but she hated having to witness his 'death'. She turned as she moved towards the others who were waiting. Down to four.
**********
"It has to be Angelus" Xander insisted.
"No. It doesn't." Willow said.
"I wonder if Riley is dead yet" Anya said, her eyes watching the door as though she expected it to burst open at any minute.
"Probably" Spike said, running a hand through his hair. "So, Red. What next?"
Willow chewed her bottom lip, thinking. She took out a note pad from Angel's desk drawer. "Well, let's make a list. Maybe if we see everything on paper things will make more sense."
"Sounds like a plan" Xander said, his foot bouncing in nervousness. He wondered if Buffy was still alive somewhere. He also wondered if they would make it out alive.
"Ok. First Doyle died. Lots of blood." Willow wrote down.
"Wait, we didn't get to go into the room" Spike remembered.
"That's right. Angel pushed everyone out and locked the door." Willow said, "It was only him and Cordelia....."
Anya snapped her fingers, "Then, Cordelia does her swan dive. Seems a bit too coincidental to me."
"Me too" Willow echoed. "After Delia, we realized that Giles was missing. That's when we found the bloody bathroom and again no body."
"Pig's blood" Spike pointed out.
"So far, three dead people and no bodies. Also, our lovely host disappeared." Xander mentioned.
"Four gone. That's when Xander and Anya left and Riley and Buffy split up from everyone." Willow said.
"Riley said that Buffy thought she heard Giles or something. She ran off to find him, leaving him alone. That's when we found him." Anya said.
"Now, Riley is gone. We found a fake Buffy head and no bodies yet." Willow finished.
"So, it would appear then, that Doyle and Cordelia were in on it all along with Angel." Spike said, looking at the notes.
"In on what?" Willow asked.
"Good question. I'd assume that they must not be dead. We'd have stumbled across their bodies by now I'd think" Spike said.
Xander shook his head, "There is no way that Buffy and Giles would do this to us. Not willingly. Someone has to be forcing them to do it."
"Who?" Anya asked, curiosity in her eyes.
"Well, Dru is gone. Dust to dust and all that" Spike said, sadness in his tone.
"Faith is holding down the fort back in Sunnydale" Willow said. "She's trying everything to become good again. No way she'd go to this much trouble."
Anya thought a moment, "Well, it could be some demon. Though, that doesn't make any sense."
"Why not?" Xander asked.
"Well, all this? It seems like some sort of test or something. I mean, think about it. Who has died so far?"
Willow looked at her notes, "Buffy when she ran off to find Giles....Giles when he disappeared after we went to find Cordelia's body....Riley who went off to find Buffy....Damn it. The ones who have left the group!"
"Exactly. See, it's some sort of test. Who ever leaves the others is next." Anya pointed out, proud of herself for grasping that much.
"But, what about us? I mean, Red and I split from you. You and Chubs even left the house. Why weren't we next?"
Willow suddenly straightened up, "I can't believe I missed it. Fuck me. Think about it, guys. Xander and Anya were searching for a way out for all of us...a boat or something to get us out of danger. You and I were trying to think of why this was all happening. Trying to solve the puzzle to stop it. They didn't get us because we weren't acting stupid."
Spike had to laugh, "Pet, I doubt that whoever orchestrated this entire fiasco would care if we acted stupid or not."
"Selfless acts" Anya said, seeing where Willow was heading. "For everyone, not a chosen person...."
"What?" Xander and Spike both said.
Willow rolled her eyes as she shared a smile with the ex-demon. "Men. They just don't get it do they?"
**********
Willow took a deep breath and continued, "Giles disappeared. Who know why. Buffy reacted thinking only of saving him. Riley wanted to save Buffy. In a way, that was selfish. I mean, there are like four more of us they gave no concern to."
"I get it. But who would care?" Spike asked, confused.
"I don't know." Willow said softly.
"We've ruled out Soulboy, Faith and Dru. Who else is there?" Xander asked.
"Ethan? No....he'd just do some weird spell that made us all nuts. This is too tame for him" Willow said.
"I don't know, but now that we know how to stay alive, can we start trying to find a way out?" Anya asked.
"That sounds like a good idea" Willow said, standing.
They went into the hall, looking around. "I wonder why, if we know so much more now, I still feel scared." Xander commented dryly.
"Because" Willow laughed, "We still know nothing. All we know is that it appears that if we stay together, we might live."
Spike moved beside her, his arm around her shoulders. "I vote for looking around a bit more. Maybe we can catch them redhanded so to speak."
"Red handed with so much blood around? Was that a joke?" Xander asked, grinning despite the seriousness of the situation.
Spike had to laugh, "Lots of redhands with that pig's blood around."
"Ew" Anya said, looking at Willow and rolling her eyes. "He's your boyfriend." She pointed out.
Willow started to blush at the girl's comment. "Well, uh...not really...."
Spike stopped, turning her towards him, "I'd bloody well better be your boyfriend, Red. Your only one. As I said, once we get out of this...you and me and a week."
"See? He can last a week" Anya pointed out, smacking Xander's shoulder.
"Uh, undead vampire guy. Me, human. He has all that superhuman stamina and stuff." Xander sputtered.
Anya just smiled, "Oh really? We'll have to work on that I guess....."
Xander grinned as they continued walking. Willow and Spike shared a smile. Willow would have laughed but she had to wonder if she was going insane. Here they were, not having any idea what was playing with them....not really knowing if their friends were dead or alive, and they were talking about week long sex marathons. Only her friends, she decided.
***********
Riley opened his eyes, closing them again at the brightness. "Where am I?" he asked, his voice thick.
He felt a hand on his face. He looked into Buffy's face, "You're with me, where you belong."
"Am I dead?" he asked, glancing at his hands. He remembered knives and pain.
"No...but you did die, sort of. I'm sorry" Buffy said, brushing his hair from his face.
"This makes no sense" he said, hugging her tightly.
"You're telling me." She said softly, kissing him. She stood, pulling him to his feet. "I think you know everyone else."
Riley looked around, seeing Giles, Doyle, Cordelia and Angel. They smiled softly at him.
"Welcome" Giles said drolly.
"Where are we?" he asked, looking around the room.
"Limbo" Angel said. "We have to stay here until we are needed. They are down to four. Not much longer."
"Did you see? They're started to figure things out" Cordelia said. "That's my Willow."
"That's my Spike" Angel said, sharing a smile. He had every confidence that his childe and the redhead would be the survivors.
"Slayer, we need you again. Vampire, come with her." A voice spoke.
Buffy kissed Riley, seeing his confusion, "They'll explain everything." She sighed as she moved to the door, joining Angel, "I'll be back...wonder who it is this time..."
**********
Xander stopped, looking around him. "Did you guys see that?"
"See what?" Willow asked, looking at him.
"Nothing. Must be going crazy" He said, continuing to walk.
"If this is a test, what is it for? I mean, maybe it is just some elaborate April Fools joke or something" Willow said as they looked into another room.
"If it is, someone is dying" Spike vowed. He hated to think that Willow was so worried for some dumb joke.
"I don't think it is a joke" Anya said. "I mean, it seems too prepared."
"I know. Someone went to a lot of trouble here." Willow said. She stopped suddenly, looking around worried, "Damn it. Where's Xander?"
Anya felt fear enter her heart. "Xander! You better get your ass over here now!"
Willow tightened her grip on Spike's hand, hoping that Xander was just playing. Somehow, she knew that he wasn't. Oh God...They had Xander.
**********
"I see you damn it!" Xander said, following the shadow. "Stop already. We're on to you."
"You have no idea what you're playing with" a voice spoke. Angel stepped into the light, his eyes soft.
"You. Where are they? Are they dead?" Xander demanded.
"Xan, why did you follow him?" Buffy asked, looking at her old friend.
"He had you. You're one of my best friends...I had to see if you were alive" Xander said, stopping suddenly. "I'm fucked aren't I?"
"You didn't even get to enjoy it" Angel commented dryly as he moved forward.
Xander's last thoughts were of Anya and the others. He hoped they made it out alive. He felt Buffy slide the blade into his heart as he closed his eyes. Pain rushed through him before blackness over took him. He dropped to the floor, dead.
"Three left" Buffy said softly, wiping the blood from the knife. She closed her eyes as she realized that she had technically just killed one of her dearest friends. She wiped her eyes, looking back at Angel. "Is this almost over?"
"Soon. You had no choice. Remember that. None of us do." Angel said as he lifted Xander off the floor. "Let's go join the others. He'll be waking soon."
**********
Anya looked at them both. "I have to find him."
"Fine. We'll all look." Willow said.
"Save yourselves" Anya cried out, shaking.
"NO! We stay together. If he's still alive, we'll find him. We aren't leaving without you." Willow said.
"Don't make us get nasty" Spike warned.
Anya looked at them, studying them slightly, "You can't tell me you aren't scared."
"To death. But, that doesn't change anything. Our friends are here somewhere. Someone is taking them and I am not leaving without them." Willow said, determination in her voice.
"You love them that much? Enough to sacrifice your own life for all of them?" Anya said softly. "Amazing. You? You feel the same as she does?"
Spike nodded, "I may not like the damn bastards, but they don't deserve this. Besides, I love Willow. I'm with her completely on this. So, no sneaking off. You are stuck with us until we find some answers."
"I wonder if the games ends if we don't seperate" Willow said, thinking about it. "Anya, come on. I don't want to lose you next."
Anya nodded, taking Willow's hand. She smiled slightly. Friends. She sighed in relief. She knew it would all be over soon.
************
"So, this was all a test." Xander said softly. "And we failed."
"No failing....not really. Just skitzed out I guess" Buffy said, smiling at the dazed look on his face.
"The three of them....more have to die" Xander said, closing his eyes briefly.
"Well, die but not. Just like us" Cordelia pointed out.
"You were in on this all along weren't you?" Xander asked his ex-girlfriend.
"Not a clue. I really thought Doyle was dead. I mean, I warned Willow because things seemed strange....things I heard at the office and all. They had me convinced he was gone though." Cordelia said, softly. "I didn't want her to get sucked into anything. I honestly wondered if it wasn't really Angelus all along."
"Thanks" Angel said, looking guilty.
"What? You try working for a souled vampire and see if you don't get worried" Cordelia said.
"We thought it was Angelus too" Buffy said.
"That was the plan." Angel said.
"It worked...Wait, Spike and Willow. Neither of them believed it was you...not after the first initial thought."
"That's my boy...and his girl" Angel said proudly. "Please, if this was my game, there would have been much more torture. No easy stuff for me."
"Bad mental image" Xander said, making a face. "Can we watch them more? I want to see what Anya does."
"Sure" Angel said, waving his hand. The floor disappeared and they saw the three others standing in the hall. They began to watch, knowing that things were almost over.
***************
"I wonder who he would have followed" Willow said.
"The slayer" Spike said, thinking.
"It's always Buffy." Anya said softly. She saw them look at her and frowned, "I don't mean that badly. I know she was his first love and all that. I also know he still cares about her greatly...just not as much as he loves me"
"At least you know the moron loves you" Willow said, walking ahead. Spike pulled her against him as they walked.
"Yes...that he does. There is so much love between all of you....I can see why Buffy has lived so long." Anya said, closing her eyes briefly. She opened them again, smiling slightly. "I feel it. It is time."
"What?" Willow asked, turning to face her friend. She saw Anya's face and felt anger and fear rush through her. She felt Spike's arms go around her, tightly holding her to him as he growled softly.. "No....it can't be you...."
"Anya!" Willow said, seeing the demon face her.
Suddenly, there was a light. Willow saw her friends standing behind Anya, confusion on their faces.
"What the hell is going on?" Spike demanded, not knowing how to kill the demon in front of them.
Anya calmed herself, her human features settling back over her face. "Don't worry, Blondie. You aren't dying. Neither of you are."
"Anya?" Xander said softly, looking at his lover.
Anya looked at him and smiled slightly, "I knew your undoing would be the slayer. She's always first for you..."
"Anya, what is this?" Willow asked.
Anya sighed as she sat down. "Ok. First off, I must admit, Willow and Spike. You two are fantastic friends to have. I know you meant every word you said. It truly does amaze me that you both risked so much for people you didn't even know were alive or not."
"Get on with it" Spike said, angry at being deceived.
"Fine. Touchy touchy" Anya said. "Ok. I'm here on behalf of the Powers that Be. It seems a new prophecy came to light and all the usual garbage. The slayer and her friends are going to be facing a very big evil. They had to see how prepared everyone was. It means hell on earth and the like."
"It was just a test then" Willow said. "Then why the ruse? Why not the truth?"
"Because, part of the prophecy stated that the evil could only be destroyed by the chosen. Strong of soul and pure of heart and some other fancy words. This wasn't all about testing the slayer, it was also about finding the chosen. You and Spike. The two who kept their wits and tried to find the answers...the two who risked themselves to save the others."
"Chosen?" Spike said, frowning.
"Chosen. As in, majorly a good guy" Anya laughed as his discomfort.
"So, you were the one who set it up?" Angel said softly, staring at the girl.
She nodded, "Yes. As you may have seen, I'm still part demon. I lost my power source which made me human, but there were qualities I never lost. Because of this, and my links to you all, they chose me. I thought this would be a true test. I must say, Buffy. You did better than I would have thought. You killed Riley and Xander to save the others. Very well done. It seems that this has proven to them that things should be fine."
"Fuck" Willow said softly. Her mind was still whirling. "So, some big evil is coming to make hell on earth. Spike and I are the chosen ones to stop it, with Buffy's help. Because she was able to kill her friends, the powers that be think that things will just flow smoothly. So, the game is over."
"Yes. They have the answers they needed." Anya sighed again, "They weren't sure about the group. They had to test everyone. I mean, this is a huge responsibility you all are going to have. They had to be sure you were ready. Everyone did very well. They are more than satisfied with the results. And trust me when I say that it takes a lot to satisfy them." A loud crash was heard as the lights flickered, "I mean, uh, they are reasonable powers that be." Anya quickly ammended.
"So, you're a half demon too?" Doyle commented, figuring that things would quiet down now.
"Yes" Anya said, her eyes finding Xander.
"You said, the evil we have to face. Does that include you?" he asked softly, moving to her.
"It can" she said, hope in her eyes. "I'm sorry about this all...but I wasn't really given a chance. If they had picked someone else, who knows what may have happened."
"What about Faith?" Willow asked.
"She's already proven herself. The period from when she left after waking up and coming back here....she went through hell and made it. She's a good one now" Anya said, feeling Xander's arm around her.
"Wow...some spring break" Buffy said dryly. "Get to kill some friends, have a few more become chosen and get told that some nasty demon is coming to fight. What more could a girl ask for?"
"Pet, remember what I said?" Spike said softly in Willow's ear, his tongue running across her cheek.
"Uh...no?" she said breathlessly. The others smiled at them.
"When it's all over, a week" they said in unison.
Willow turned red. "Good grief, you all know about that?"
"Run along you two. Take your week. Training won't start for a few more weeks" Anya said, smiling.
"Training?" Willow said.
"You two are the chosen. Training out the ass. Trust me, enjoy this week. Oh, and Thanks....." Anya said softly.
"Thank you" Willow said, leaning against Spike. It was strange, but everything that had happened had turned out to be for a good cause. Who was she to complain? Besides, she ended up being a chosen plus she got Spike. Not a bad Spring Break...not a bad one at all. "A week, mister. Let's go."
Spike laughed as he swept her into his arms. "Don't wait up" he called to the others as they headed upstairs.
Anya looked at the others and smiled as she sat down. They had already
accepted her and moved on. She was very lucky to have them all as her friends.
She knew that, together, they could face any evil that threatened Sunnydale.