Nocturnal Bravura Book Three:

Children Of Destiny


Nocturnal Bravura : def


Nocturnal -from Latin nocturnes ; of, relating to, or occurring in the night

Bravura- Italian, meaning 'skill or bravery'; a musical performance that displays a bold and an extraordinary display of technique.





Chapter One

Beta'd By Spikeslovebite

The Claim

Lizzie straddled William’s window sill. She loved to sit there and watch him sleep.
She had hurt him again. She hated it when she hurt him. She knew it always did when she held back, but she couldn’t let him see it. She was still too ashamed.

She trusted William more than anything in the world; it was herself she did not trust.

William wanted it. She could see it in his eyes. He had made her his world the night they took those vows in the abandoned church. All he wanted was for her to make him hers....

FLASHBACK~EARLIER THAT NIGHT
__________________________________________________________________
The cemetery was quiet. Very few vamps were out.

The couple’s opinions of the stillness differed greatly.

Quiet meant peace to William. It meant he did not have to fight. He could just spend time walking around with Lizzie. Holding her hand, talking to her, kissing her lips...

Quiet meant plotting to Lizzie.

She felt something inside her. Something was stirring in the darkness. It was if the demon community was waiting for something to happen. Waiting for a new Master to come and dispose of the powerful Slayer. That only made Lizzie even more nervous. She could not lose William. Not her perfect William. Not the way she lost Spike....

Lizzie stopped walking, the thought alone terrified her.

“Something the matter Luv?” William asked.

She shook her head then grabbed William and kissed him forcefully. He wrapped his arms around her, trying to gauge what caused her sudden action.

Lizzie pulled back. “Take me home.”

When they finally stood in William’s room, their hands frantically clawed at each other’s clothing, trying to rid themselves of the impediments.

“Lizzie, please we should talk...” William moaned. He was quickly losing control under her touch.

“Talk later.” Lizzie said, licking down his chest as she pulled off his shirt.

“I can’t think when you‘re like this” He whispered.

“That‘s the point.” She whispered.

William’s right hand wandered down her to her breast and gently played with the cotton that covered it. She moaned again as William kissed her.

She put both her hands around his neck. William shifted and rolled her onto the bed. He continued to kiss her mercilessly. William removed her clothes, his hand moved up her thigh. Lizzie closed her eyes and rested the top of her head on William’s chest.

He looked at her naked body, completely enthralled by the beauty of it. Lizzie’s unnecessary breath became labored. William kissed her mouth again before moving to her neck then down to her breast.

Lizzie’s bit back a cry of pleasure, drunk from of the feel of his hot mouth on her. He went to her other breast and gave it the same loving treatment that he had afforded the other one. She suddenly began to purr.

Closing her eyes tightly, she fought to control her demon from emerging.

“Please, Lizzie. Let it out. I love you. I love all of you.” William whispered, tracing her face lightly with his fingers.

Lizzie shook her head. She grabbed him and pulled him down onto the bed, throwing her leg over his and sinking down on him.

“Oh God, Lizzie.” William murmured. He tried to keep in control as Lizzie's body surrendered to his will time and time again. They were in perfect rhythm with each other. Both grunting and moaning in pleasure. They were completely lost in each other as their bodies found their own way to communicate to each other.

She braced her hands on his chest, feeling the pressure inside her begin to shift and ripple. Biting her lower lip and panting, she increased her body’s movement against his. Her eyes were shut tight as she savored his hard length plunging up into her.

William took her face in his hands. “No, don’t close your eyes. Baby, looked at me.” He commanded. Lizzie slowly opened her eyes as her body continued its climb.

“Do it.” He begged, tilting his head to the side and exposing his neck to her.

Her eyes flickered golden green as they locked on his throat for one lustful heartbeat before she shook her head in denial. Throwing her head back, Lizzie clenched her inner muscles, reaching her peak and causing William to gasp and lose control shortly afterwards.

*

They lay in bed holding each other. William stared up at the ceiling.

“I’m Sorry, Will. I just can’t.” she whispered.

“I’m trying to understand Lizzie. I really am; but every time you refuse, it just reminds me.” William said, holding her tightly.

“I love you Will.”

“I love you too.”

END OF FLASHBACK
________________________________________________________________

Lizzie was about to leave when she saw William’s eyes open slightly. He smiled at her reaching out for his love.

She smiled and climbed back into the room, knowing she was forgiven. He always forgave her. She jumped onto William bed, sighing as he wrapped his arms around her.

“William, I never mean to hurt you. You know that, right?” she begged.

William kissed the top of her head. “I know. I understand; I swear I do. I don’t know why I keep asking for it. I just keep thinking maybe one day you’ll just do it.” he said quietly.

“If I do then you’re bound to me forever. I can’t do that to you. Not when you still have a chance for a normal life. I know you love me. I know you never want to go, but I already feel guilty for so much.” Lizzie replied.

William turned her around to face him. “One of these days you will get it through your head that I am not going anywhere.”

Lizzie looked at him seriously. “And one of these days, Will; you’ll stop feeling so insecure about Spike.” Lizzie said.

William closed his eyes then opened them slowly. He touched the marks on her neck. “I know it’s stupid. His blood flows through you. These marks are what make you his. What could I ever give you that could compare to that?”

“It’s not a competition Will. His blood is your blood also. You have given me so much. I love you, William; separate from anything I feel for Spike. You know that.” Lizzie said, kissing his lips.

William kissed her eyes closed and smiled. “I know.”

*

After William had fallen asleep, Lizzie walked back to her crypt. She knew William would have preferred her to stay the night, but she was feeling restless. On nights like these she would find herself wandering around town. Just taking in the night as she tried to make sense of her strange existence.

Sometimes though she would find herself here...

The banquet hall of the mansion. The room where it all happened. It always seemed so much bigger to her now than it had back then. She could still smell the tangy stench of spilled blood. It clung to the walls and floor. Somewhere in the back of her mind she knew of the carnage she had caused in this room; feasting on the blood of her victims.

At times she could hear the echoes of their screams.

They haunted her but not as much as the image of her dark Master. She could almost see him there; sitting in front of her, beckoning her to come closer. She could hear the growl of her demon’s mate in the shadows of her mind. It always made her tremble.

In fear.

In desire.

In want.

William was right. A part of Lizzie would always belong to Spike. Being claimed was like nothing in this world she had ever felt. It calmed at times, the protection of being the only claimed mate to the fallen Master of the Hellmouth. Her safety depended on it. No one dared touched her.

If she had claimed William she would lose that. It would make her vulnerable. That was the argument that usually kept William from despair.

The other reason was that Lizzie didn’t want him to feel what she felt. She was afraid to claim William because then he would know what she felt. There were times when her demon would cry out for its mate. Painful, wretched howls deep within that nothing, not even William’s touch, could comfort. The longing and the hunger for its other half tore through her when she was in pain or when she needed to calm herself from frenzy. But her mate was gone. Nothing could soothe that rage. She learned to adapt. Found other ways of dealing with it. But it was constantly there, howling within her.

If something happened to her, William would carry those feelings with him somehow. And then he would know.

He would know how much of Spike still resided in Lizzie.

Lizzie looked around the room. The remnants of the statue that took Spike out of this world still lay there. She didn’t want to hurt William. He claimed to understand her reluctance in claiming him, but she knew he really didn’t. It wasn’t just her demon. It was their love. The love she had shared with Spike. The claim was all she had left of it now.

Lizzie choked back a sudden flood of tears. She touched a piece of rubble and closed her eyes.

“You may be gone, my love; but never forgotten. I’ll love you for eternity, Spike”

She turned and began to walk away. Stopping for a moment, she looked over her shoulder then closed her eyes again, whispering into the wind. As if perhaps hoping that wherever he was, Spike could hear.

“Though lovers be lost, love shall not. And death shall have no dominion.”

Lizzie walked out of the mansion. Absentmindedly she began to stroke at the bite marks on her neck again. Soon she was lost in the shadows of the night, her soft voice echoing behind her.

Inside the mansion, an unnatural wind began to blow and spin around the banquet hall; picking up speed as it blew over the broken statue. A small whirlwind formed at the statues base. Suddenly, a stream of blue light arced out of the remains, becoming brighter with every passing moment.

 

Chapter 2:

Just What I Needed

Beta's By Spikeslovebite


Thunk,
Thunk,
Thunk...

The sound pounded in the vampire’s ears. A burning within consumed it.

Thunk,
Thunk,
Thunk...

Rage, anger, hunger consumed its every thought and emotion.

Thunk,
Thunk,
Thunk...

Nothing made the sound go away...

*

Riley Finn walked to his car. He was a bit buzzed from too many beers with his frat buddies. He knew Samantha was going to be pissed when he came home smelling like a brewery.

He paused and looked around, feeling as if someone was watching him. He spun around, looking for the person, but saw nothing. He picked up his pace walking toward his car. Finally, he fumbled with his keys and clumsily opened the door. Sighing in relief he stepped into his car and locked the doors. He laughed at himself.

“Jesus, a grown man and still afraid of the dark.” He thought.

Riley started the car and pulled out of the parking lot. He pulled onto the main road, fiddling with his radio.

Not seeing the figure crouched down in the backseat...

Riley looked at his rear view mirror wanting to get into the right hand lane. He whipped his head back around, beginning to drift into that lane.

He screamed suddenly, feeling a shooting pain on his neck. Looking in the rear view mirror again, he watched in horror as two gashes appeared there.

Riley tried to grab his neck. His tried to turn his head and look behind him. He screamed, seeing a demon like creature holding him tightly.

“NOOOO!” Riley lost control of the car.

Thunk
Thunk
Th.....

Finally the deafening sound was no more. The vampire finally felt sated. The sweet taste of blood spiced with terror flowed through him; reenergizing his senses. He smiled with pride as he felt the young man’s life slip away. The car slowed until to came to a complete stop.

The vampire smiled wickedly and thought to himself. “Just what I needed.”

*

The vampire watched the car as it sank into the lake.

He had disposed of the body after he had commandeered his victim’s clothes. They were a bit loose and stank to heaven of beer, but at least the shoes fit. He stood there on the shore, his eyes transfixed by the bubbles that rose from the sinking car.

Suddenly he heard a rustling in the trees. The vampire turned, straining to hear a heart beat. Nothing pounded against his ears. He heard the gasp of a creature and swiftly ran toward the sound. Before the creature could even blink, the vampire was upon it, grabbing its shirt and shifting into his demon visage.

“Master!” The wretched creature cried out piteously.

He loosened his hold, realizing that he had captured a fellow vampire. “Master? Is that what you called me?” He demanded.

“Yes Master, my name is Jesse.” The other vampire explained. He fell to his knees bowing his head in homage. “They said you were gone. I did not want to believe it. I knew it was not true. You were too great and powerful to be eliminated.” Jesse groveled.

“You know me?”

Jesse looked up at him questioningly. “Yes, of course. You are the Master. The only true Master of the Hellmouth.”

He closed his eyes as his body began to shake. “What’s my name?”

“Sir?” Poor Jesse was confused by his manner.

“WHAT IS MY BLOODY NAME?” The vampire screamed.

Jesse whimpered in fear. “Spike, Master. Your name is Spike.”

He saw a bulge in Jesse shirt pocket. He felt the object, smiling. A pack of cigarettes. He pulled it out, along with the trembling vampire’s lighter. He lit a cigarette and inhaled the smoke deeply into his dead lungs.

Slowly, he exhaled and smiled evilly.

“Spike, that sounds about right....”

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Chapter 3

Smile

Spike lay on a huge bed in what his followers told him was his mansion. They informed him he had to be careful. No one could know he was back until he got all his strength back.

That did not stop them from bringing him prizes from the hunt. From what Spike could deduce, he must have been feared and powerful. Still, he could tell they were all holding something back from him. He could not put his finger on it, but something felt off about the whole situation.

The minions on their part were relieved the Great Master had returned. They knew he was still a bit weak. He had to reestablish his hold on the Hellmouth. They questioned whether or not to go and retrieve the Master’s dark Princess, but then decided against it.

Old memories still floated through the air.

Touch the Perfect Princess and don’t live to see the sunrise.

Some of them were secretly relieved as well that the Master had no recollection of the confused women. With no Buffy around, it meant the Master could focus on taking down the Slayer.

Others of them feared what would happen once he figured out they were withholding that crucial bit of information from him.

Spike closed his eyes trying to rest. His senses picked up something in the air. It comforted him. He felt complete for a moment, and tried with all of his might to hold onto that feeling.

Slumber came, bringing forth images ....

__________________________________________________________________

Spike found himself standing in a small room. The first thing he sensed was the smell in the air. The same smell he had encountered in his bedroom before he fell into this dream. Instantly he felt complete again.

From what he could see it was a women’s room. A small computer desk sat in the corner beneath a painting of a young blonde girl. Pictures were scattered everywhere on the walls. There was a television and VCR on a small stand. A copy of a movie sat on top of the VCR. He was able to make out the title of the movie.

The Princess Bride.

“Princess?” Spike muttered to himself.

He tried to figure out where he was, it was so familiar it made his head hurt. Spike tried to focus on the pictures on the wall but could not make out the faces. He reached out to touch them when he heard a voice; a women’s voice. It was beautiful. The sound of it made Spike’s undead heart constrict.

“Spike you’re here” He heard that lilting, beautiful voice say.

Spike looked at the bed and saw himself walking toward the girl. She was sitting on her bed covers all around her. He watched himself sit down on the edge. He looked different. His skin was not as pale. He was tan. He watched as the mirror image took needed breaths. He thought he could actually feel the warmth of his human form from where he stood.

“I didn’t mean to wake you.” He heard.

“You know I never mind. I love when you wake me” Her voice was filled with happiness and surprise.

He watched himself bite his bottom lip and smile shyly. They kissed passionately.

Spike felt an ache inside as he watched the young couple. He found himself speaking the words along with his reflected self.

"I finished it Luv.” He said as the girl giggled.

Spike took a step closer, trying to get a look at her. Her face remained a blur. It only frustrated him more. He was convinced she had to be the most beautiful creature in the world. Anyone with a voice like that had to be.

“I can’t believe you wrote a song from me.” She was whispering, her voice filled with awe.

Spike watched himself swing a guitar from behind his back. “Of course I did Luv.”

He could hear the ache in his voice as he spoke with the human version of himself. “You’re my girl...”

The two sitting on the bed looked at each other, oblivious to the dreaming intruder standing next to them. Spike knelt down trying to get a look at the girl’s face.

"Who are you?" He whispered trying to reach out and touch her cheek. His hand went through her. Every time he tried to bring her face into focus she just became more and more blurry.

“Did you find a word that rhymes with glowing?” He heard her tease.

“No, pet, but I came up with something that conveys what I mean.”

Spike turned and watched himself. The dream Spike started strumming his guitar.

“In, I'm falling in,
I didn't want to,
Not so fast boy,
Slow
Don't wanna hurt the girl
Get her a pretty box
You'd better fill it.

And I get blinded when she opens the door
It's like looking at the sun, you know
And I'm just blinkin', mumblin', starin' at my shoes,
And she just looks at me
And smiles
And smiles, smiles, smiles.”

Spike heard the girl take a deep breath as if she was trying to catch it. His voice and words had moved her. He could feel the intensity of her emotions.

She loved him.

Lord, how she loved him.....

“So there we go again,
And it feels so good,
To fall up and down,
Damn, it's 2am again
And she kisses me goodbye
For the sixteenth time”

Spike heard the girl laugh. He could actually feel the heat of her stare as she looked with adoration at his mirror self.

"My God, please, I need to know... who are you?" Spike was filled with anguish. He closed his eyes, struggling to remember. Something. Anything.

He watched as the girl's hand rested on his human counterpart's knee. He watched himself as he smiled brightly at the girl.

“And I'm drivin' home, it's 5am
And I look at the sun come up over the hills
And the clouds are turnin' pink and green,
And all I can see is her eyes
Eyes, eyes

I get blinded when she opens the door
It's like looking at the sun, you know
And I'm just blinkin', mumblin', starin' at my shoes,
And she just looks at me
And smiles
And smiles, smiles, smiles.”

The Spike sitting on the bed finished his song and looked up at the beautiful girl shyly. “What did you think Luv?” He heard himself whisper.

He saw the beautiful girl fall forward, kissing the version of him on the bed passionately. “It was the most beautiful thing I ever heard. I love you Spike. So much, I love you beyond anything.” She whispered.

It shook Spike. Not because she was saying the words but because of the conviction in them. Even sitting there, not seeing her face, he knew the statement to be the truest thing he ever heard.

“I love you for eternity.” He heard the Spike on the bed reply as he lowered her to the bed, kissing her soundly.

“I was wrong. That‘s the most beautiful thing I have ever heard. ” The girl said softly.

He watched himself hover over her, holding her hands. He heard her sighs and moans.

Suddenly he felt himself being pulled away. “No!! Wait Who are you??” He called out again praying he would get a crumb, anything. No answer came. All he heard was the faint whisper of her voice...

“I love you for eternity Spike...”

__________________________________________________________________

Spike shot up, shocking the young female fledging standing by his bed.

The minions had sent her in to entertain the Master. They had hoped he would be satisfied with her. She was blonde and if his memory was foggy enough perhaps she would sate his desires. Jesse warned them that he would see through their ruse. Still they sent her in.

Harmony had jumped at the opportunity to be favored by the Master. Her plan was to slip into bed next to him and start pleasing him while he slumbered. All that changed when he woke up.

“I’m sorry Master.” she said.

Spike grabbed her and looked into her eyes. “What’s your name?” He demanded.

“Harmony.”

Spike pulled her head back and took in the scent of her.

Harmony, misunderstanding his intentions, ran her hands across his chest; making slow circles as she smiled. “What would you like me to do Master?” She asked.

Spike closed his eyes tightly. He touched her neck then tightened his grip around it.

Harmony let out a half scream as Spike launched her across the room. She hit the wall then bounced back hitting the floor. “MASTER!”

“You’re not her. Get out.” He roared. He watched with flashing eyes as she stood up and ran out of the room, shaking with fear.

Spike sank down in his bed. With the help of his dream he had figured it all out. Why everything seemed off, why he felt so incomplete and weak still. It all made sense now. He felt this way because there was one very important piece that was missing...

It was her.

Whoever she was, she belonged to him.

 

Chapter 4

The Calling

Lizzie hated nights like this. There was something going on in the Hellmouth. A new Master had risen. William and Rupert told her to stay indoors inn case they needed her later to create another ruse to take down the new Master.

She had told them that there was something special about the latest contender. He was established and feared already. Strangely enough, she had felt his presence.

On more than one occasion she had felt a gnawing pain in her stomach. She wondered if the new Master was of her line. She expressed her fear to both William and Rupert.

Perhaps it was another one of Darla’s Childer coming to avenge her death. The thought alone incited orders from both of the Giles men for Lizzie to stay out of sight. They went as far as having Rupert and Willow place a masking spell over her crypt to prevent anyone that might seek her out from finding her.

She understood they were just trying to protect her, but tonight she felt restless. Pent up. Caged. For the first time since her return, Lizzie felt the need to hunt. She felt the night calling to her demon. Not to feed, but to search out the new Master them self.

If they were of her line it would be natural for her to feel them. But there was something else. The desire, the want to truly be connected to something in her undead life.

Lizzie groaned and lay down, a million thoughts running through her head. She closed her eyes tightly, trying to calm her demon. She felt confused. Afraid.

Because the demon within her was longing for its mate…

**

Spike leaned back in his chair. He sat in the banquet hall watching his minions torture their latest prize. Their bloodlust amused him. They were truly like animals with no control over their demon. They bit and snapped, ripping their prey into shreds. He wondered if all his nights before had been like this.

He closed his eyes taking a deep breath. From deep within he heard a growl. It grew louder until it vibrated in his ears. His demon was awaking within him, demanding to be heard. This was not a growl of hunger, but of want and desire; a raw desire that demanded to be sated at once.

His minions watched as he flung himself out of his chair, his eyes flashing yellow.

Without a word, he threw on the long black leather treasure his minions had gifted him with and whirled out of the room, the duster billowing behind him.

Spike stalked out into the night. He was chasing after something. Hunting it. He was unsure of what he sought, but it called to him. Beckoned him. His demon once again cried out in agony, raging against him, causing him to double over for a moment as he fought to keep it at bay.

Nothing worked. He felt his body move forward as if it were no longer being controlled by his own volition.

Everything blurred past him; trees, bushes, headstones. He come into the cemetery now and tore through it like a mad man. His face shifted, his fangs elongated. Finally he gained some control of his senses and found himself standing in front of a crypt.

He did not sense anything in the area. However he thought he could feel something inside. The thing that he was seeking felt like it was right behind the door. Still he could not bring himself to go in.

***

Lizzie bolted up, feeling something near. She touched the bite marks on her neck. She tried to stand and found herself on her knees; the ache inside was so great it had become a searing pain. She shut her eyes tightly as her demon growled savagely. She gasped as she felt her face shift without provocation. Forcing herself to her feet, she slowly climbed the ladder to the upper level of the crypt. Midway she had to stop because she was shaking uncontrollably. She cried out, fighting to regain her strength. Flinging herself the rest of the way up, she lay and stared at the door.

Moving slowly, she gained her feet and walked over to it. Her demon roared and she was suddenly terrified. She had never felt anything like this. The burning. The aching desire.

Reaching the door she pressed the entire length of her body against it and lay a shaking hand just above the handle.

***

He felt something move on the other side of the door. Spike’s entire body tensed, his demon growling and snapping within for him to make his move.

Pressing himself against the door, Spike put his hand above the door handle, fighting to regain control of his senses...

**

Lizzie took a few steps back, her body still trembling. Everything inside her screamed to open the door. Finally mustering up all her strength and courage, she flung the door open and stepped out of the crypt.

Nothing.

The gnawing pain inside finally stilled. Her demon rolled over once and was still as her face shifted back. She looked around, not seeing anything out of the ordinary. Something was here, though. She felt it. Lifting her head, she breathed in; trying to track its scent.

Lizzie felt something behind her and tensed, ready to attack her would be predator. She reared back her fist just as familiar arms snaked around her waist.

“Just me, pet.”

Lizzie gasped and let out a sigh of relief. “William” She sighed, wrapping her arms around him.

William felt the tightness of her grip and was instantly concerned. “Lizzie, what is it?”

Lizzie nuzzled her face into his chest, shaking her head furiously. “Don’t know. I felt something tonight. It just... I can’t explain it.”

“I’m here, now. It’s all right.” He took her face in his hands and kissed her gently.

“I’m always safe with you,” Lizzie said with a soft smile.

“I was worried about you. I know I shouldn’t be, but I was,” William explained.

She looked up at him, confused. “Why?” she asked.

“Long story,” William replied.

When she would have buried herself against him once more, he tipped her chin up and kissed her once more. “Stay with me tonight at the house,” William said, smiling mischievously.

Lizzie wrapped her arms around his neck and smirked at him. “And I should because..?”

“Just in case some big nasty wants to come and take a bite out of little ole me,” William teased.

“I have a feeling you could handle yourself,” Lizzie argued playfully.

“Okay, something more practical then. The Scoobies are all there and we have some information we need to share with you. It may take awhile. Besides, the Bit misses you. Hasn’t given me a moments peace,” William said.

“Low, Will! Using my sister so you can have your wicked way with me,” she laughed.

William chuckled. “Damn, you’ve figured me out already!” He reached out a hand to her. “Coming, pet?”

Lizzie sighed, admitting defeat. “Just don’t hog the covers,” she teased. “And there had better be pizza!”

William pulled her along. “Whatever your heart desires, luv.”

She had taken his hand and started walking by his side when she suddenly whipped back around. Her eyes were wide and expectant as she tested the air.

“What is it?” William asked.

“I don’t know, it just feels like something is...”

“We can have a look around if you like. I do feel a vamp but it could just be you,” William said, looking in the same direction as Lizzie. He did feel something strange, but he couldn’t be entirely sure that he wasn’t just picking up on her mood. She seemed fearful and out of sorts and it bothered him. One way or another he was going to get it out of her.

Lizzie watched the shadows for a few more minutes. A part of her wanted to go and search the cemetery for the thing that had been at her door. Another part of her shuddered in fear of what she might find. What if it was the new Master? What if Willow’s spell wasn’t working? She knew she would have to tell everyone what had happened. She hated to think of what it would do it William.

Finally she made her decision, shaking her head. “Never mind, let’s go.”

William flung his arm around Lizzie’s shoulder as she wrapped both her arms around him and snuggled up to his side.

“Protecting me from things that go bump in the night?” William asked.

Lizzie giggled. “Right! Tell me again what your occupation is Slayer?” She teased, emphasizing the last word.

They laughed together, the sound drifting through the stillness of the night.

Neither of them saw the figure staring at them from the shadows.

Chapter Five   The Master’s Return  

Lizzie and William stepped inside the Giles home. The followed the excited chatter and found all the Scoobies assembled in the dining room.   “I’m just saying to would be more economical if they drove. The Council does not pay that well. They could write it off as a business expense,” Anya was arguing.

“Great An, and what does Giles put on his tax return; recon mission expenses to save the world?” Xander argued.  

Rupert appeared to be deep in thought. He realized that Lizzie had returned with William when Dawn squealed and ran to throw her arms around her sister.   “LIZZIE!” she cried.

William watched as a smile crept across Lizzie’s face. What ever else was going on, she always seemed to feel better when Dawnie was around.   “How are you Dawnie?” she asked.  

“Great! Guess what? Dad and Will have to go to Los Angeles for a few days. That means I need someone to stay with me,” Dawn hinted.  

Lizzie looked up at Giles questioningly.  

Rupert took off his glasses and began to wipe them down.

“It seems you’re assumptions were correct. The new Master is of Darla’s line,” he said.   “Don’t you mean of my line as well, Giles?”  

The room got so quiet one could hear a pin drop.  

Lizzie looked down. She didn’t know why she said what she did. For some reason she felt the need to remind them of what she was. Sometimes she could tell they forgot. They treated her like they did when she was alive. But even she knew the danger of that. If they forgot, if there came a day that for some reason they had to stand against her, she had to know that they could take her down.  

William came up behind Lizzie and put his hands on her shoulders while Dawn held her hand, trying to show her support for her older sibling.  

 “Of course,” Rupert said.  

“I’m sorry. I don’t know what’s wrong with me tonight. I felt something really strange earlier and I guess its still affecting me,” she said.  

The elder Giles walked up to her and kissed the top of her head.

“We understand.” He removed his glasses and began to polish the lenses as he continued. “Our sources in Los Angeles say that this new Master is very powerful. Many of Darla’s minions have already started to make their way to Sunnydale. Will and I are going to Los Angeles to gather information and meet with Cordelia and Wesley,” he explained.  

Dawn looked at Lizzie brightly. “That means you can stay here with me,” she said happily.  

 “NO!” Lizzie said a bit too loudly.  

 Dawn took a step back. She wasn’t hurt by her sister’s reaction. She could feel her fear. “What’s wrong?”  

Lizzie grabbed Dawn’s shoulders. “Dawnie there is nothing I want more than to spend time with you. You know that right?”  

Dawn nodded slowly.  

 “Its just that…Tonight something happened.” She looked over at Rupert. “I couldn’t control my demon. Before I could even blink I was all bumpy in the forehead. I didn’t feel like killing or anything like that, but it scared me how easily it took over. I can’t risk Dawnie seeing me like that,” She explained.  

“Of course not,” Rupert said, sympathizing with the girl. “We will just take Dawnie with us.”  

 “Da, maybe just you and Dawn could go. I should stay here,” William said.  

 Lizzie turned around to face him, arching an eyebrow at him. “I thought we agreed that the fate of the world comes before my emotional needs?”  

 “No, I just thought that with all the minions on the way…Besides I need to patrol...Oh bloody hell women! I hate it when you phrase things the way you do,” William muttered.  

 Lizzie laughed, wrapping her arms around him.

 “It’s okay, I’ll put on my Princess Buffy act and see what I can dig up,” she offered, turning away.  

William pulled her back. “You’re not going to dig up anything. Just cause I agreed to go on this little excursion doesn’t mean I have gone completely Carrot Top,” he said.   Lizzie tilted her head to the side.

“We know the drill, William. What does it matter if I start now or when you get back? I need to make an appearance sooner or later. They’ll come looking for me; they always do. Better I start now.”  

William ran his fingers through his hair scratching the back of his hair roughly.  

“It’s dangerous. I don’t like it. What if Darla’s minions try to do something to you?” he argued.   Anya rolled her eyes.

 “Will, they are not going to try anything. She is Spike’s Mate. If they tried anything, any of Spike’s minions that are still bound to him would turn against the new Master. The demon world may be evil, but they do have their own code of honor. If the new Master intended to take Lizzie out, they would have tried something by now. Since they haven‘t, they obviously respect The Claim and feel Lizzie is worthy because she has not tried to bind herself to anyone else,” Anya finished, not thinking about the impact her last statement might have.

 Lizzie closed her eyes as Willow and Oz flinched, while William tried not to let Anya’s words affect him.  

Rupert cleared his throat. “Dawn you should start packing. We will be leaving on a midnight flight so we can get there quickly,” he said, leading the girl out of the room.  

“I’ll be here when you get back, Dawnie,” Lizzie promised. She kissed Dawn and watched her walk up the stairs. Turning to Will, she smiled. “Let’s get you packed, too.”

  After Lizzie and Will had left the room, the rest of the Scoobies glared at Anya.   “WHAT?”  

**

William lay on his bed, holding Lizzie in his arms. “There’s nothing I can do that would convince you to wait until I return is there?” he asked.  

 Lizzie lay with her head in against his chest. Sitting in the corner was the small duffle bag he had packed. The members of the Giles household were set to leave in an hour. She could feel William’s concern wash over her.

  “Will, I wish you would stop worrying about me,” she whispered.

  William tilted her chin up and kissed her. “I told you, luv, it’s not that easy. Especially now.”  

 “Like I said, it wasn’t a killing kind of thing. Just a need...A pull. I can’t explain it,” she muttered.  

“That’s what worries me the most. I am afraid of where it’s going to pull you,” William whispered  

 Lizzie straddled him and took his face in her hands. “I told you I love you,” she said.   William kissed her and smiled. “I love you too.”  

 **  

Spike rushed through the mansion. He knocked his minions out his way. Enraged he kicked the door open to the main hall. The older minions stopped what they were doing and began scrambling around, trying to make sense out of their Masters’ mood.   He reached for the minion closest to him and grabbed an axe off the wall. Before the minion could say or do anything, Spike sliced him right down the middle.

 “Now that I have your attention,” he said, wiping off the blood. “Let’s have a bit of a chat, shall we?”  

Harmony walked into the room and Spike grabbed her by her throat. He pulled out a stake and drove it into her chest. The minions stood and watched as Harmony evaporated into dust.  

 “You bring THAT to me, but you will not bring me her?” Spike roared. He grabbed a third minion by his shirt.

“You knew about her and you didn’t tell me?”  

 “Master, we wanted to wait until you were completely well,” the minion cowered.  

“I could see the merit in that way of thinking.” Spike said. Before the minion could even blink he felt the piercing of Spike’s stake. “However, forgive me if I disagree.” He took a step back and dusted himself off.

  “Now, let’s get down to the nitty gritty,” He said. “I want answers and I want then NOW!”  

Jesse entered the room. One of the minions had run to fetch him the minute Spike had returned. He had known this day would come. “You speak of Buffy, Master,” he said quietly.  

The other minions roared their protests. “SHUT UP, YOU IMBECILE!” One of them yelled.  

The axe left Spike’s hand in a blur as he flung it across the room, pinning the minion who had yelled to the wall. Spike walked over and grabbed a handful of the minion’s ratty hair, jerking it up so he could see its eyes.  

 “Didn’t your parents teach you any manners? It’s rude to interrupt,” he sneered. Without another thought, he drove the stake through it. He looked around the room, daring anyone to try to interrupt Jesse.  

 “Continue,” Spike said, crossing his arms in front of him.  

 “Your Mate, Master. Her name is Buffy. You called her your Perfect Princess Buffy. She has remained here in the Hellmouth. She is a bit....Master, her mind is not well,” Jesse said sadly.

 "Princess," Spike murmured. The dream. The beautiful girl. Now it all made sense. He had a Mate. Somewhere in the back of his mind, he understood that they must be bound together. One word screamed in his mind. CLAIMED. If she was his mate, why was she not here with him?  

 Spike looked around the room, his eyes filled with murderous rage.

“You mean to tell me that my Mate has been left to fend for herself?” he roared. “The bloody creature that finds her and brings her to me gets to live!”   The minions all scurried out of the room, tripping over each other in their haste to get out of Spike’s presence.  

Jesse stayed by Spike’s side. “Master, do you remember her?” he asked quietly.  

Spike closed his eyes and shook his head. “No, but it doesn’t matter. She belongs to me...”  

Thank you Kari, Vamps and Isabel for shaking your pom-poms

Nocturnal Bravura got a Judge's Choice Award on Vampire's Kiss and then got nominated for Blood is Love and Love's Last Glimpse awards I am so floored.

Chapter Six

Face To Face

Lizzie looked down at herself. Damned undead existence. Because of it, she didn’t have the luxury of a mirror to see how she looked. She didn’t really need it, though. She knew she looked good.

The outfit had been Spike’s favorite. She wore skin tight black leather pants with a pair of black suede stiletto-heeled boots. The strapless black leather bodice clung tightly to her torso as she drew the red silk ribbon laces together and tied them
The memory of the night he presented it to her still haunted her. She and Spike were hunting when she had seen the women wearing this exact outfit. Spike had commented how delicious his Princess would look in it. When she agreed, the women's life was ended within the next few minutes. All for the sake of her outfit...

It was now merely a costume she wore to play a part. The part of the former Master of Sunnydale’s slightly insane mate. There was a diamond, ruby, and black onyx choker that he had also given her that she always added when she’d worn the outfit for Spike, but for nights like these it stayed in her jewel box. She knew well how the game worked. They had to see Spike’s mark on her. His Claim must be fully visible to their hungry eyes..

Spike’s marks still carried power in the demon community. She knew they were her only protection against anyone that dared touch her.

Lizzie always felt conflicted when she had to do this. On one hand it was deceitful. She knew it was nothing but a ruse, but on the other hand it fed to the darkness within her. The stares of everyone she encountered. The fear.

The Claim made it easier to maneuver within the darker side of Sunnydale. When the Dark Princess sauntered in, the whole room froze. It made her feel powerful. It made her feel Spike...

It was as if he was all around her when she was like this. Lizzie could almost see his cocky grin and feel his eyes burning with desire as he stared at her. She felt the familiar ache inside and immediately she pushed it away.

She stood in the darkness debating where she should go first. Deciding to get the biggest bang for her buck, she walked over to Willie’s Bar. She swung the door open and took a few steps in. A few of Spike’s old minions gasped and ran out of the bar.

Her entire demeanor had changed the second she walked through the door. Lizzie cocked her head and willed her eyes to glaze over. “Why have they run from the Princess?” she said in her best dreamy Buffy voice.

“Don’t worry Princess. They are just a bit skittish tonight. Word’s out that there’s a new contender for the Hellmouth,” Willie explained.

Lizzie sighed, trying to act as nonchalant as possible. “So many people want to be Daddy. None of them know how,” she pouted.

Willie pushed a glass to Lizzie. “Here you go, Princess. Best I’ve got. On the house of course.”

She could tell by the rich smell that this was human blood and not pigs. She looked down at the glass and then warily back up at Willie. Something was up. She could feel it. Willie would never give her human blood on the house. Unless there were something big stirring and he was eager to stay in ‘Buffy’s’ good graces.

Leaning up against the greasy wood of the bar, she was surprised to hear a faint hissing sound on the roof. A crushing sadness gripped her. It was raining again. It had not rained in Sunnydale since that night...

The night that Spike had left the earth.

She thought if her lost mate for a moment, allowing herself to feel their love. Tears stung her eyes. She realized Willie was watching her closely and snapped out of her reverie. Lifting the glass to her lips, she drank the blood down quickly, struggling to keep from making a face. Strange how the sweetness of human blood bothered her now. She felt almost woozy for a moment.

Whoa. That hadn’t been just any human blood. Willie was right; it was the good stuff. It had probably been taken from an addict or a drunk. The side effects were always a bit numbing.

Lizzie tried not to be effected my Willie’s sudden generosity. She turned and smiled at him.

“Yummy, yummy for my tummy,” she said, rubbing her belly. Tossing the glass back to him playfully, she wandered over to the jukebox and skimmed the song selections.

All she had to do now, was wait…

**

“Master we have found her!” One of the minions screamed.

Spike dropped the man he was feeding off of and rushed to the door. He ran all the way to Willie’s bar with his minions leading the way. His demon didn’t rage against him once. It was if it knew that tonight it would feel completion.

Reaching the bar, he stood outside in the rain for a moment. She was in there, he could feel her presence within. Over the beat of the music he heard the rumble of the demon crowd that had gathered to get inside out of the rain

Walking in, he saw that they had all congregated around the small dance floor. The were watching something…Someone…

He could only catch glimpses of blonde hair swaying in the center of the action.

Frustrated, he finally grabbed a fledgling vampire and threw him out of his way. Finally, he saw her.

“Hello my friend, we meet again
It's been awhile, where should we begin?
Feels like forever”

Spike took an unnecessary breath as he watched her move. She was sheer poetry in motion...

“Within my heart are memories
Of perfect love that you gave to me
Oh, I remember”

Her eyes were closed as she concentrated on the music; feeling the heavy beat and the bittersweet lyrics of the song with her whole body. A soft smile graced her lips, as if she were remembering something wonderful.

Remembering him…

Spike’s vision blurred and he blinked his eyes hard blinked hard. Memories began to race through his mind. A tortured whisper ripped from his throat. Her name.

“Lizzie”

“When you are with me, I'm free
I'm careless, I believe
Above all the others we'll fly
This brings tears to my eyes
My sacrifice”

Lizzie felt something enter the room. Suddenly her entire body felt like it was on fire. The music engulfed her. Feelings and emotions soared through her. All she could think of was Spike. She crossed her arms around her waist, pretending they were HIS arms holding her as she sinuously moved her body to move to the music.

Something…Someone… was watching her from the crowd of demons that
surrounded her. Almost helplessly she continued her performance.

“We've seen our share of ups and downs
Oh how quickly life can turn around
In an instant”

His past lay before him, laid bare to his shocked mind. His childhood. His parents. His brother. The Summer’s girls.

His Lizzie. His love.

“It feels so good to reunite
Within yourself and within your mind
Let's find peace there”

Spike continued to will the memories forward. His calling as the Slayer. His turning at the hands of Darla. Lizzie’s turning. Her madness... The moment when they both left the earth impaled against the statue.

Their love.

Their undying love...

“When you are with me, I'm free
I'm careless, I believe
Above all the others we'll fly
This brings tears to my eyes
My sacrifice”

Spike closed his eyes again as he thought of his brother. William. The other night in the graveyard, Lizzie had been kissing William. Kissing his twin. Smiling happily up at the Slayer.

He felt his undead heart break. His brother was taking care of her now. Spike staggered back for a moment, all the new knowledge swirling through his mind.

Suddenly, he felt like he was suffocating. He had to leave. She couldn’t see him, not when he was like this. He had to go, now! His demon, however, had other ideas. It growled in indignation.

Just then Lizzie stopped dancing. She felt it. The growl within. The same feeling she felt the other night. Her head snapped up and she looked in the direction the growl had emanated from. She caught site of a black leather coat as its owner walked away.

At that moment, all the pieces finally fit. Beyond reason, beyond explanation…She knew.

“Spike,” She whispered.

“I just want to say hello again
I just want to say hello again”

Lizzie ran through the crowd, pushing everyone out of her way. Tears began to Spill from her eyes. It seemed to be forever before she made it outside. The rain poured down over her.

She saw a dark figure walking away. She knew that walk, that determined slow swagger. Her body, her very soul, began to scream. It was him...

“SPIKE!!!!”

“SPIKE!!!” She screamed again so loud she could almost feel her vocal chords tearing.

He told himself not to look back; to keep walking. He wasn't ready to see her. He tried to keep walking away from her.

It was the second cry that stopped him. It was filled with longing and desperation. It was filled with so much love. He could not deny her. He never could. Finally he turned to face her.

He looked up at the rain, realizing it was pouring down on them. Finally, he forced himself to look at Lizzie. Realization struck Spike at that moment. It was indeed Lizzie. Not Buffy, but Lizzie. Strong, whole...well. That fact alone made him want to weep with joy.

“Lizzie?” He questioned.

Lizzie nodded, smiling.

They stood there transfixed at the site of each other. The sounds of the song she had been dancing to wafted out of the bar, surrounding them.

“When you are with me I'm free
I'm careless, I believe
Above all the others we'll fly
This brings tears to my eyes”

Her tears blinded her as she ran to him, her face alight with joy and she reached out her arms for him. “SPIKE!”

“Cause when you are with me I am free
I'm careless, I believe
Above all the others we'll fly
This brings tears to my eyes
My sacrifice, My sacrifice”

Spike reached out for her catching her as she jumped into his arms. He swung her around and around, holding her, taking in her scent. Complete again. He looked up at her as she framed his face with her hands. When she did this, Spike kissed her palm as he had always done, inciting another sob from Lizzie.

“My Lizzie,” he whispered.

She looked down at him and without another thought, kissed him. The tears on their faces mixed with the rain pouring down on them. Both were oblivious to anything else around them.

Lovers.

Demons.

Mates.

Complete.

“I just want to say hello again
I just want to say hello again.”

Chapter 7:

Beta'd By Spikeslovebite

Empty

Lizzie and Spike sat in her crypt holding each other tightly. Neither one had spoken a word since he had carried her back from Willie’s bar. His demon had taken over as soon as they were indoors. Before he could do anything to stop it, he pushed Lizzie down onto the stone sarcophagus and ripped into her neck.

Much to his surprise he felt her fangs piercing his skin as well. Her demon had emerged demanding the same satisfaction. It took only moments, but to both Lizzie and Spike it seemed like an eternity as they reaffirmed their claim.

After the wounds had been cleaned, both shifted back into their human faces and just stared at each other. Spike felt dazed as he lay back. Lizzie crawled up onto his chest and snuggled there as she had done so many times before.

Something was different. He could feel it. The demon inside him felt it, too. It growled and snapped at the unfamiliar presence it felt within its mate.

Spike stared deep into Lizzie’s eyes. “You have your soul back,” he said
incredulously. The Orb. You picked it up that night and I saw your eyes glow. It healed you by giving you back your soul.”

“It was an Orb of Thesulah and yes, it restored my soul,” she whispered.

Spike closed his eyes. She was different. With her new clarity came more knowledge. With the reaffirmation of their Claim, there were things that he could feel. All that she went through when she came back. All the guilt and pain she felt for her former victims. Her need for redemption. Her painful secrets. The things that she kept hidden in her fear and grief. He knew at that moment what he had to do.

Lizzie looked up and saw that tears had begun to fall from Spike’s eyes. She touched his face. “Spike?” she questioned, deeply concerned.

He sat up, pushing her away almost savagely as he leaped to the floor. She gasped as she almost fell from the sarcophagus.

Spike headed for the door, then stopped, pacing back and forth and burying his fists in his hair as he muttered and cursed to himself. She slowly climbed down and watched him incredulously as he fought something inside himself. Finally he turned and flung himself into her arms. “How do I say goodbye to My Lizzie?” he cried.

“What do you mean?” Lizzie asked.

Spike looked at her somberly. “We can’t be together, Lizzie. Not now, not ever,” he said, his body trembling.

“What do you mean? Spike, we’re mated. Claimed,” Lizzie argued.

“And William?” Spike questioned, trying to push her away.

She flinched as though he had struck her. “You know,” she whispered.

“I remember his scent pretty well.”

“Spike...”

“You were covered with it the night you died. I can't smell it on you now, but I think that’s because Red must have done some mojo. That would explain the first night I came to you. I got all the way here but didn't feel you inside. I knew you were in there, but I didn't know who you were. I saw you out there, with Will,” Spike said quietly.

Lizzie rocked on her feet. She took another step back when Spike reached out for her.

“I’m not mad, luv. I could never be mad at you. You thought I was gone forever. I always knew if something happened to me you would end up with Will. I just didn’t think I would have to stick around and watch it,” Spike spat out.

Lizzie covered her face and sank to the floor.

Instantly a memory of Buffy flashed before his eyes. This was his greatest fear. If she stayed with him and remembered too much, she would again become tortured; filled with pain and agony. He could not do that to her again.

“NO!” Spike cried out. He grabbed Lizzie by the shoulders and hauled her to her feet, shaking her roughly. “Don’t do this to yourself!”” he demanded.

“I’m so confused. I…I need a minute to think.”

Spike took her in his arms. “Nothing to be confused about, Luv. I go back to the mansion and you stay here.”

“I don’t understand,” Lizzie said. “Why are you doing this to me?”

He began pacing again. “What did you think would happen, Lizzie? That you would come back with me? You can’t!” Spike yelled.

Lizzie stood there looking at him, her green eyes filling with tears.

“Tell me Lizzie, what are you going to do the first time I feed? Huh? The first time I give in to my demon?” Spike asked in a harsh voice. A voice he had never used with her before. “I thought about it just now. The look on your face. You would think I was a monster and you would be right. That’s what I am; they make monster movies about creatures like me.”

“I’m one of you, too, Spike,” she retorted.

“You have a soul. You know right from wrong. I don’t. One day I will act before I think and do something evil. I would disappoint you and you would never be able to see me the same way again. I wouldn’t be able to take it,” Spike whispered.

“I love you, Spike. I always have,” she said, as if saying those words could make everything better.

“I’m nothing but a demon now Lizzie.”

“Stop it! Stop it, you know that’s not true,” she cried.

Spike looked At Lizzie, his face expressionless. “You know what the first thing was that I figured out about being a vampire? How much blood you can drink from a girl before she'll die. I know. You see, the trick is to drink just enough to know how to damage them. Just enough so that they'll still cry when you drain them, 'cause it's not worth it if they don't cry,” Spike sneered

She stared at him, tears of pain rolling down her face. “If you’re trying to prove a point, it’s not going to work.”

Spike walked up to Lizzie and grabbed her by the shoulders, forcing her to see him.

“I already did it. It's already done.” He shook her once more. “You wanna know what I've done to girls Dawn's age? What WE’VE done to girls Dawn's age?”

Lizzie gasped and jerked away from him, her hands covering her mouth in shock as she took a step back.

“See, this is me, Lizzie. This is what I am; like it or not,” Spike whispered.

She stood there trembling. She could feel so many things from him. Rage. Anger. Heartache. But she also felt his love for her. His love, and his determination to do this thing he had decided was the best for both of them.

Spike began to walk out of the crypt.

“You don’t have to go back,” she pleaded.

“Yes, I do Lizzie. That mansion. That life, it’s mine. All I have is the darkness. I don’t even have you anymore,” Spike said.

“You’re going to Claim another?” she asked, her undead heart breaking.

Spike was on her in a flash. “No! Never. You’re my love, my life. There will never be another for me,” he vowed.

Lizzie stared up at him, everything she felt for him in her eyes.

He squeezed his own eyes closed, pure misery etched his face. “Don’t do this, Lizzie. Don’t look at me that way. If you do, I’ll never be able to walk away.”

She stepped into him, pressing her face into his chest and breathing in his scent.

“I don’t know what to do…What to say...Only that I love you, so much. I love you beyond anything.”

Spike kissed the top of her head.

“But you love Will, too. You’re a full fledge white hatter. Helping those damn Scoobies. Watching Dawnie grow up,” Spike said, trying to lighten the mood.

“I’m also a vampire, Spike.” Lizzie said, her voice broken. “All I ever wanted was to be with you, forever.”

“And what of your soul, Luv?” He tipped her chin up, gazing into her beloved face. “If you stayed with me, it would turn black. It would destroy you. I don’t have a shred of goodness in me. The only thing good I ever had was you. And now that I see you like this, all I feel is...Empty. I don’t know why I’m back. Maybe this is the real hell,” Spike mused.

“How can you say that?” Lizzie wailed. “Knowing everything we were to each other, how can you talk to me like this? You sound like you hate me!”

Spike took her face in his hands. “You know I could never hate you. It’s just that…You’re here; so beautiful and perfect. You’re mine, but I can’t have you. This has to be my punishment for everything I have ever done wrong. This has to be hell. To look at you and know that you’re finally well, but I can’t be with you.”

“You can!” She stamped her foot. “It doesn’t have to be this way. It doesn’t!” Lizzie sobbed.

Spike kissed her again. “I have to go, Luv.” he whispered.

Lizzie clung to him desperately. “Don’t! Please, don’t...”

“God, Lizzie! Princess, please don’t do this. I can’t let you go if you do this.” Spike said in anguish.

She refused to let him go. “Just stay with me a little while, please?” She begged.

Without another word, he gave in. Just for a tonight. He climbed up on the stone sarcophagus and held out his hand, beckoning her to lie beside him. Lizzie crawled up his chest, feeling his arms wrap around her. She lay against him, completely drained by emotion. Eventually she slept.

She awoke the next sundown. Alone. She wrapped her arms tightly around herself, too miserable even for tears.

William would be home soon. Explanations and decisions would have to be made. She would have to decide how she truly felt about all of this. But for now all Lizzie could feel was one thing...

Empty.
 

Chapter 8:

Beta'd By Spikeslovebite

Sacrifices

Lizzie perched herself on the window sill of the Giles house with catlike grace. She rested on her heels, her arms wrapped around her knees. She looked like a statue of a gargoyle. Sitting, waiting, guarding. Wondering how she would explain recent events.

She had been trying to calm the demon within her for hours now. It was indignant. Demanding. Wondering why it was separated from its mate.

Nothing made sense to Lizzie anymore. Spike was back and they had no idea why.
Now she would have to tell William and the rest of the gang. Would they try to kill him still? If they did, what would Lizzie do?

The demon within roared at the thought of its mate being destroyed. She closed her eyes, trying to calm it again. She wondered if Spike was having just as difficult a time...

She saw the headlights of Giles’s car come into the car port. She hopped off the window sill and waited for them to approach.

Lizzie watched from the shadows as William walked to the back of the car and popped open the trunk. Giles was in the backseat picking up a sleeping Dawn.

Lizzie smiled at the scene before her.

She watched as William spun around. He had felt her. He searched for her until she stepped into view and his face instantly broke out into a big smile. Lizzie said nothing, merely taking the keys from him and going to open the door so Giles could carry Dawnie to her room. She followed, watching as he got her settled in her room.

Spike’s old room.

She leaned against the doorway, lost in thought. How many times had she been in that room? How often had she sat and listened to him as he wrote songs. How many movies had they watched together; curled up on his bed? They hadn’t spent near as much time here as they had in Lizzie’s room. Spike had loved Lizzie’s room. He said he loved being surrounded by her...

Lizzie closed her eyes tightly, willing away her pain as she made her way back downstairs. She was standing at the big front window when she heard William drop the bags behind her and felt him wrap his arms around her.

As much as Lizzie wanted to just fall into his embrace, she knew she couldn’t.

There were things that needed to be said. Things they needed to know.

William turned her in his arms and kissed her forehead. “I missed you,” he whispered. When Lizzie looked down, avoiding his eyes, he tipped her face up. “Lizzie, what’s wrong?”

Just then Giles walked back downstairs. “Have you filled Lizzie in yet?” he asked.
William shook his head, never taking his eyes off of Lizzie. “Haven’t had the chance yet,” He replied.

Lizzie pulled out of his arms and walked over to where Giles was busy rolling out an ancient scroll. “What is it?” she asked.

Giles looked down at the scroll. “It’s a Prophecy, but the text and language is so ancient we have no clue how to decipher it. I am hoping that with the help of Willow we can perhaps conjure a spell to help us transcribe it. It was stumped everyone else thus far.” he said, still studying the scroll with avid eyes. He pointed out a small symbol at the top of the scroll. “We do know that this symbol has something to do with the Master. It resembles the symbol for Leader of The Damned.”

Lizzie touched the symbol lightly. “King of The Damned is more like it,” Lizzie muttered.

Rupert looked at Lizzie impressed. “You have already met the new Master?”

“He is powerful. No exaggeration,” Lizzie said, taking a step back from the scroll.

William watched Lizzie carefully. She looked so shattered. So distant. He had not seen her like this in a very long time. “Lizzie, did he do anything to you?” he questioned gently.

Lizzie shook her head slowly. Her hand came to rest on her neck. “He can’t.” She whispered. “There is nothing he can do to me.”

William looked at Lizzie’s neck. In spite of her quick healing, the bite marks were fresh...“Lizzie,” William began. Before he could finish his father pushed him to the side.

Rupert grabbed Lizzie and pushed her hair roughly aside, examining her neck. A look of outrage flooded his face. “I wouldn’t call that nothing! The Master claimed you!” he screamed.

Lizzie wrenched herself away from Rupert. “You don’t understand!”

William took a step forward. “Explain then,” he pleaded, trying to keep a level head.

“It’s not a new claim. It was affirming the previous one.” Lizzie whispered, her voice getting softer with every word.

Rupert grabbed for the table behind him. William rocked backwards. Both of them suddenly realizing what Lizzie was trying to say.

Spike....

Lizzie looked at both of them. “He’s back. He doesn’t know why. He didn’t even remember me until he saw me at Willie’s bar. His minions have been taking care of him at the mansion. That’s why so many have been coming. They think he is back to rid the world of the Slayer.”

William walked over to Lizzie. He was petrified. He was going to lose her again...

Rupert looked at Lizzie. “Why are you here, then?” he asked suspiciously. “Why are you not with him?”

Lizzie’s head snapped up. “I thought you would want to know,” she spat, glaring at him.

“We need to get everyone together. Figure out what we are going to do about this.” Rupert said, snatching up and re-rolling the scroll.

“Da, I don’t understand,” William said.

“We have to neutralize the threat.” Rupert said, his eyes narrowed with determination.

Lizzie jumped up. For a moment her eyes flashed gold. “I just told you that your son is back and all you can think to say is ‘gather the troops, it’s time to go hunt some vampires’?” she cried.

“That’s not my son not anymore!” Rupert screamed.

Dawn appeared in the doorway. “Dad?” She said meekly. She had heard Lizzie’s voice from her room and bolted out of her bed. She had heard the tail end of the conversation.

Spike was back.

Rupert reached out for Dawn. He pointed at William. “That is my son.” He looked down at Dawn.

“This is my daughter.” Finally he stared at Lizzie. “So are you. But that thing out there is not Spike. Spike died one night in a cemetery,” Rupert finished quietly.

Lizzie walked over to them. “You living in a fantasy world. That thing, as you call him, is very much Spike. He’s got Spike’s memories, his face...”

“Not his soul,” Rupert challenged.

Lizzie looked down. “Trust me, Giles. This bright shiny soul I have? Not always all it’s cracked up to be,” she said bitterly.

“Elizabeth, why do you think he’s back? Because he is William’s greatest challenge. Do you think for a moment that Spike would think twice of killing William if it meant ending his existence? Of course not. William’s in the fight of his life now. It's time to stop playing the role of general, and start being one. This is the way wars are won. Sacrifices must be made” Rupert said, still holding on to Dawn.

Lizzie looked at Rupert shocked. “Sacrifices? My God Rupert, this is Spike! You’re son. Where is your heart?” Lizzie asked.

He began to shake. “My heart? I know what you think of me. I’m a cold callous monster right? How could I talk so frivolously about taking out Spike? You don’t think it kills me?” Rupert yelled.

Dawn looked up at Giles, then at Lizzie. “Dad that is not it. Lizzie is afraid that’s all. So are you. Both of you are just reacting in fear.”

Lizzie and Rupert looked at each other. Immediately they embraced. “I’m sorry.” They said in unison.

“We will suss this all out.” Rupert said.

Lizzie looked up at him, tears brimming from her eyes. “Please, I don’t know what to do. I can’t stand against Spike.”

She turned to William and reached out to him.

William went to her willingly and wrapped his arms around her.

Lizzie stared at him, her expression one of extreme misery. “I can’t stand against him any more than I could stand against you, William.”
 

Chapter 9:
Choices

Beta'd by Spikeslovebite


Lizzie sat at Dawn’s bedside. She touched her face and kissed her on her forehead before standing up to go.



“This is your greatest fear isn’t it?” Dawn asked quietly.



Lizzie looked at her sister. “What do you mean?”



Dawn sat up in her bed, hugging her knees. “You’re going to have to choose between them. You know that right?” At her sisters nod, she lay back down and closed her eyes. “You do what you have to do, Lizzie. I trust you.” Dawn said closing her eyes.



Lizzie felt a tear roll down her cheek. She closed the door and walked down the stairs. William was waiting for her in the living room, alone.



“Where’s Giles?” she asked.



“He’s in the study. I swear you can hear him cleaning his glasses from here,” William teased.



Lizzie smiled. “Will, I have to go.”



William crossed his arms. “To the mansion?” he asked in a carefully emotionless tone. His heart was breaking. Spike was back and Lizzie was still his mate. The bites on her neck proved it. She would leave him again.





“No.”



William’s head snapped up. Her denial rang in his ears. No?



“I’m going back to my crypt,” Lizzie replied.



William tried not to be relieved. He tried not to feel hope but he couldn’t help it. Lizzie was not returning to Spike. “Right then, I will walk you back.” To his shock Lizzie did not protest. She simply nodded and walked toward the door.



***



They walked in silence, neither of them saying a word, yet their thoughts consumed the air around them.



Lizzie looked up at William. “He doesn’t want me to return to him,” Lizzie said sadly.



William stopped walking. “What?” He asked, shocked.



Lizzie shook her head. “He said it wouldn’t be right.”



William took a deep breath and begun to walk again. “Because of your soul,” he deduced. When she nodded, he tried not to be enraged by his twin’s callousness but he couldn’t help it. “So, what? He just takes a chunk out of you to prove a point?” he spat out.



She looked up at him in misery, tears misting her eyes.



Instantly he felt ashamed. “I’m sorry, baby,” he whispered, stopping again and resting a tender hand on her cheek.



“You have nothing to be sorry for,” Lizzie said.



William pulled her close and buried his face in her hair, a shudder wracking his body. “I’m not going to lie to you, Lizzie. I was happy. Actually, I was overjoyed when you told me you weren’t going back to him. I thought I was going to lose you to him again.” A heavy sigh escaped him and he looked down at the ground. “But still, I can’t have you. Not like this.”



Lizzie nodded. “You feel you would have won by default.”



“When he was alive I was always in his bloody shadow. It never bothered me until you. When he got you, it nearly killed me,” William said.



Lizzie fiddled with her hands. “I know. Dawnie said something to me earlier. She said this was my greatest fear. That I would have to chose between the two of you. She was right. I can’t, Will. I never have been able to. I’m selfish. I love you both so much.” Lizzie said.



He hugged her tightly. “I know. Different but the same. I get that. I never thought you would have to either. Before, I could take it. I understood. You loved Spike. But now, Lizzie, I have seen the look in your eyes when you see me. I have felt your love. I don’t think I can walk away. I can’t be noble not this time Lizzie. I will fight for you if I have to.” William swore.



Lizzie closed her eyes. “You can’t fight something that’s not there to fight. Spike backed off.”



William pulled back. “I’m not talking about Spike, Lizzie. I’m talking about you,” he explained.



Lizzie looked at him confused.



“You’re going to have to figure this all out. Figure out what you truly want. Until then I will be here. I will be your best friend. We’ll continue to fight the good fight shoulder to shoulder. One day, when you are ready to chose, I will be here.” William said.



Lizzie brushed away her tears. “I don’t deserve your loyalty.”



“Yes you do. You deserve that and so much more,” he smiled, pressing his face to her hair once more. He tried to be strong. He tried to not be afraid. He tried to tell himself whatever her decision was, he would accept it. But a part of him secretly feared her decision.



He couldn’t lose her.



Not again...




***



Spike looked around his bedroom. The minions had laid out some of the dark princess’ things, thinking he would return with her. When she didn’t none of them dared question him. They saw the fresh bite marks on his neck, so there was no doubt that she was still his one and only mate, but they did not know what to make of the situation.



He sat at the edge of the bed. Their bed. They had spent hours here. The memories played in his head. All the nights he spent watching over her, trying to make deals with whoever would listen to him to make her better. He chuckled to himself then roared at the ceiling. “Got a sense of humor don’t ya! Do the only thing I ever asked for just to take it away!” He screamed.



Trembling, he touched the white night gown and took in its scent. It smelt like her...He closed his eyes, remembering her so sick, so lost, so confused.



Spike crawled up the bed. The same bed they had made love in night after night. He curled up into a ball and began to sob. “She can’t be with you Mate. Get over it you ponce,” he thought to himself.



He was the Master of the Hellmouth. He would go on. Somehow without her, he would.



Spike knew he was lying to himself. He needed her. He craved her like he craved blood. He knew there was no way he could be without her, but he had to try.



He didn’t have a choice....
 

Chapter 10:
A Mate’s Call




“DUCK!!!”



Lizzie did as Oz told her. She ducked, watching a fledgling soar above her only to be met with the pointy end of Xander’s stake.



She looked to make sure William was all right. He had been fighting two vamps and was down to one.



They were out all the time now; new fledglings trying to gain favor with the Master. None of them ever made it back to the mansion. Spike only seemed to send out the ones that he felt were too weak.



William was a bit insulted by Spike’s actions.



Lizzie however knew what Spike was doing. He was protecting her. If anyone strong enough to return found out the Master’s mate was fighting against them, it would be the end of her.



A vampire that had gotten hold of Anya. Lizzie ran towards them and launched herself onto it. She rolled with the creature and came up with dust swirling around her. She looked around and saw a vampire using Oz’s battle axe to choke him. “Lizzie help him!” She heard Willow say in her head. She ran toward Willow and Oz, grabbing the vampire from behind and sending it reeling towards William.



William spun around striking it from behind. He hit the last fledgling he was fighting with and staked him quickly.



Oz ran to retrieve his axe then took Willow in his arms.



Xander caught his breath as Anya ran up to him. “That was fun,” he said.



Willow hugged Oz tightly. “There were a lot of them this time.”



All the scoobies nodded, but Xander said what they all thought. “Makes you wonder what’s going on in there,” he said, looking at the mansion in the distance. Everyone stood in silence for a moment trying to think of something to say.



Lizzie hated when they did that. Since Rupert and William had told the gang Spike was back, they all seemed to be uncomfortable around her. It was understandable. With the exception of Anya everyone knew Lizzie and Spike before they died. It was hard for them to think that Lizzie would be a part from her first love, but here she was still fighting with them.



They all knew the conflict that hung in the air. It was only a matter of time before something would come to a head. None of them including Lizzie knew what was to come.



William for his part tried his best to act as if everything was business as usual. He knew everyone was taking their cues from him. He and Lizzie had not been intimate since Spike’s return, but their devotion for each other was still apparent.



On the one occasion Xander commented that it was not safe that they associated with Lizzie, William made it abundantly clear that Lizzie was a part of the team. Anyone, including his father, that did not like it knew where the door was. No one spoke against her after that.



“Thank you for helping Oz.” Willow said, breaking the silence. Oz smiled at Lizzie and nodded.



Everyone seemed to let out a huge breath at once. Despite their worries, moments like these they remembered. Lizzie may be a vampire but she was still fighting with them. Protecting them keeping them safe.



“No problem.” Lizzie said, handing the stake to William.



William hated when she did that. It was almost like she was telling him she did not trust herself. Like perhaps she was unsure if he fully trusted her.



William smiled. “You did good, pet,” he said.



Lizzie smiled up at William. She opened her mouth to say something when they all heard it....



A deep growl came from behind Willow. She turned and saw it coming toward them. It was a big, red-eyed demon with a switchblade-like stingers.



Oz pulled Willow back while Lizzie ushered them behind her. “What the hell is that?!” Oz yelled.



Anya gasped. “It’s a Glarghk Guhl Kashma'nik!”



They all turned to her confused.



“What’s a...Good Godfrey Cambridge, I can’t even pronounce it!” Xander exclaimed.



Anya grabbed Xander and dragged him behind William.



William and Lizzie met, standing side by side guarding their four friends.



“Okay…Um, Anya? Care to tell us what it does?” Lizzie asked.



“Not sure. I just know it’s deadly.” Anya said.



“Like all demon’s aren’t deadly?” Xander asked. Lizzie turned to him and scowled. “Present company excluded.” Xander amended, hastily.



“Guys, not the time for this.” William said, backing up as the demon trudged toward them.



“Right, I suggest everyone run.” Willow said.



“Good idea.” William muttered.



The six friends all turned and began to run. Lizzie could hear the demon behind them. It sounded as if it was galloping. She turned and saw it had indeed gotten on all fours and was chasing after them. She spun around, grabbing the axe that Oz was holding, and ran toward the demon.



William saw what she was doing out of the corner of his eye and stopped dead in his tracks. “LIZZIE WAIT!” He yelled.



It was too late. Lizzie had leaped into the air getting directly into the demon’s path. She swung the axe at it nicking its shoulder. The demon howled and rolled on the ground. It stood up again and began to omit thick saliva out of its mouth, coating its stingers.



“Okay, now that’s just plain gross,” Lizzie muttered.



The demon launched itself at her and she swung at it again, hitting across the chest. One of its stinger grazed Lizzie’s arm. She let out a howl as the cut began to sizzle. She fell to the ground, watching the demon run off it the darkness.



William ran up to her. “Bloody Hell woman!” He screamed.



The other four friends trailed behind him. “Are you all right?” Willow asked.



“Yeah I’m fine.” Lizzie said standing up. Suddenly she went limp. William caught her carrying her in his arms.



“It’s stinger! That stuff must have been some kind of venom.” Anya deduced.



“Lizzie?” William asked. He suddenly became aware of how warm she was becoming. “God, she’s burning up! I have to get her back to her crypt. Go get my Da!” William yelled, running toward Lizzie’s dwelling.



“Will, wait I’m coming with you!” Willow said, chasing after them.



***



William watched Lizzie as she writhed on the stone sarcophagus.



Willow sat on her cell phone listening to Giles on the other end. “All right. I will tell him,” she said, disconnecting the phone.



“There is not much documentation on a Glarghk... well you know. Your father is trying to figure out something now.” Willow said.



William tried to soothe Lizzie as best she could. She was burning up.



“Will?” Lizzie muttered.



“I’m here, baby,” he said.



“It’s so hot. How can I be hot?” She moaned.



William opened his mouth to say something when she let out an inhuman howl. She curled up into a ball, screaming out in pain.



Willow and William watched her demon emerge whimpering in pain. she curled up, looking like a wounded animal. They watched her in demon form for a few minutes as she alternated between growling and whimpering in pain. Again she cried out.



“Oh God Willow she’s dying.” William cried. He walked over toward her.



Suddenly the crypt door burst open.



Willow watched as a dark form blurred past her and sent William flying into a wall.



“WILL!” She yelled, running over to pick up her friend. They both turned and saw Spike standing over Lizzie in full demon visage. They both looked more animal than human at the moment, their growls and howls filling the air. The watched as Spike whined, sniffing at Lizzie.



William stumbled to his feet. Of course. Lizzie’s demon had emerged, sending a call out to its mate.



Spike crawled onto the sarcophagus, taking Lizzie in his arms. Spike whined and whimpered down at his mate, still sniffing trying as he tried to assess where she hurt. Lizzie purred and cried out in agony as Spike touched her face. She looked up into his eyes. Both of their faces shifted back into human guise. Lizzie reached up, still shaking as she touched Spike’s face.



“Spike,” she whispered. She closed her eyes and lost consciousness.



Spike looked over at Willow and William, still rocking Lizzie back and forth in his arms. “What the bloody hell happened to her!” he roared.

 

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