Nocturnal Bravura: Book Two

The Healing

VERY AU: The secrets of the past come tumbling into the present. A tortured Slayer bound to the beautiful lost Princess of The Master Of Sunnydale. Hiding his own pain and anguish he goes out night after night fighting the fight for the innocent. While The Master races against time to save His Childe, His Love, His Princess, His world from the depths of madness.

Authors Note: A lot of blood-play, darkness freaky/kinky and angst and VERY NC-17. Not suitable for viewers under age. Not your typical Buffy or Spike. This will have flashbacks not as many as the first book though, tell me if you get sick of them. Also the second book will flow a bit different than the first one. This is written VERY differently than the first book. This book will go pretty quick and fast paced. More real time than the last chapter. The chapters are shorter so please be warned! Also I have separated it into three books not four.

One More Thing: Book 2 will not make sense to you unless you go back and read book one. Sorry. I know people like to jump in the middle but trust me you will be scratching you head if you don’t.

Nocturnal Bravura : def

What was it about him that loved the dance with her?

He watched as she spun toward him. Her moves were always so precise so calculated. His Slayer instincts at times were the only thing that saved him from a thorough thrashing. She fought like she was truly dancing, her kicks and punches graceful but powerful.

William ducked a vicious kick, causing Buffy to hit a tree. She quickly she flipped off it and smiled.

“Is that the best you got Slayer?” Buffy asked.

William gripped his stake. “Haven’t even started Luv,” he grinned.

Buffy giggled.

“Dancing with you is so much fun, Slayer. Your blood tastes so sweet.” Buffy said.

William felt her words hit him like a punch in the gut. Of course she didn’t know.

She was a vampire.

They were always talking about blood. But when she said it, it made him remember.

“Shut up!” He yelled. He flipped, landing behind her and wrapping his forearm around her neck.

Buffy pulled it down ready to twist him and flip him over when she saw it....

The dance stopped.

William looked down and saw Buffy staring at his bracelet. He tried to jerk his arm away but she held it tightly, unable to tear her gaze from the bit of leather.

She touched the worn Celtic symbol with her fingertip, then spun out of his embrace with a gasp.

They stood there looking at each other for a long moment with wide eyes.

William watched as she began to shake.

Buffy’s eyes began to water. She whimpered for a moment, looking down at her own leather wrapped wrist. With an inhuman cry she tore it off.

William flinched as Buffy stared down at the thin white lines on the inside of her wrist.

She cocked her head in confusion and fear, then she slowly raised her wrist, showing William her scars.

“SPIKE!” He yelled, careful not to take his eyes off of Buffy.

When Spike didn’t emerge as he usually did, William began to panic. “SPIKE!”

Buffy sank to the ground, holding her wrist.

“Love me when I’m gone,” she whispered. “Go away. No pictures. Not now!!”

“Buffy....” William said quietly.

“So much blood...” Buffy whimpered, rubbing her ruined wrist.

“Hey now, Princess.” William sat next to her, trying to calm her.

“Stop the pictures.” She pleaded with him, her eyes filling with tears.

William began to panic. What if Red or Xander came by? What if one of Spike’s minions happened upon the scene.

“There was so much blood.” She whispered.

“Hey look.” William said in his kindest voice.

Buffy looked up as William pulled something out of his pocket and stared at it, fascinated.

“Do you know what this does?” William held it up with a smile.

She calmed and nibbled on her bottom lip, smiling like a shy child.

She’s still so beautiful, he thought.

“Here let me show you.” He said.

FLASHBACK
__________________________________________________________________

William had found it among Lizzie’s things and carried it sometimes, never knowing why. He watched as Buffy wound up the box giggling at the song it played.

“Whenever you need noise now all you have to do is take that out.” William said.

Buffy nodded vigorously.

He stood up and reached down for her hand, tying her leather band back to her wrist. “Go on now and show your Daddy.” he said, gritting his teeth and trying his best to smile.

Buffy looked at William suspiciously.

“We’ll finish our dance later.” He reassured her.

She took two steps backwards, staring at him for a long moment. Finally she turned around and ran off into the night.

He watched, making sure she was out of site before returning to his patrol, making certain that Sunnydale was safe from things that went bump in the night.

*

Spike sat at in a chair looking at the man being held up by two of his minions. He was beaten and bruised. Terrified.

Just then Buffy ran through the door. “DADDY! DADDY!” She cried happily.

The beaten man watched as his captor’s menacing and deadly face turned into on of love and adoration as the bouncing, beautiful creature catapulted herself into his lap.

“What is it my Perfect Princess?” Spike asked, holding Buffy and kissing her neck.

Buffy looked at the man.

“Daddy who’s that?” She pointed at the beaten man.

“That, Luv, is Dalton Avery. He’s going to help Daddy understand that book he brought back from his last journey. The one that’s going to make his Princess all better again.” Spike said.

Buffy’s eyes danced. “Then Daddy won’t have to go away anymore?”

“That’s right. If for some reason he can’t make my Princess feel better, then he will certainly make my Princess feel full.” Spike rubbed Buffy’s tummy. He glared over at the man, making sure he understood his ultimatum.

Dalton Avery closed his eyes as he fought back tears. He watched his captor and the beautiful girl for a moment then hung his head, praying this was all just a bad dream.

Dalton Avery sat at a large rosewood table, trying to decipher the text. He struggled to control the pounding in his heart. He knew these creatures could hear his heart racing when he was panicked. He closed his eyes, fighting to refocus on the ancient text in front of him.

He looked up for a moment and watched his captor standing there with his women. She was beautiful. Hauntingly so. Her eyes were the brightest green he had ever seen and the way she looked at her mate...nothing but devotion and, dare he say it, love? Could vampires feel love?

He watched as his captor lifted his mate off her feet and spun her around and around, whispering things in her ear that made her giggle and purr. The women kissed his captor, inciting a growl in him.

“She is beautiful isn’t he?” Spike said, staring at Buffy.

“Ye..yes, Sir.” Dalton responded.

“As much as I understand why one would want to do nothing but stare at My Perfect Princess, I believe you need your eyes to read that book.” Spike said, still staring at Buffy.

He lowered Buffy to the ground and kissed her on top of her head.

Buffy sat down, humming to herself.

Dalton heard a loud thud. He looked up and saw that Spike had jumped onto the table. He stalked over to Dalton.

Dalton began to tremble in his seat.

Spike crouched down in front of the man. “I told you, do what you are suppose to do and no harm will come to you.” he said softly.

“I..I understand, but the text is so obscure that the language is difficult to decipher.” Dalton explained.

“Now, remember what I told you before.” Spike smiled wickedly at the man.

Dalton looked back at the text. “I am not sure what you are looking for exactly.” He said

Spike grabbed the man by his collar.

“Something that will help the lady.” he sneered.

“Per..perhaps if I knew what was wrong with her..” Dalton suggested.

Spike lifted the man to his feet and slammed him against the wall.

“If I bloody well knew, don’t you think I would have shared that with the class by now?!” he roared.

Buffy covered her mouth and began to giggle.

“Ah-oh, you made Daddy mad. It’s not good to make Daddy mad.” she said to Dalton.

Dalton looked at Buffy then at Spike.

“You heard my girl.” Spike said. Jumping off the table, he picked up Dalton and threw him back in his chair. He then slammed the chair against the table, causing Dalton to wince in pain.

“Now let’s get back to our studies. Shall we?” Spike sneered.

Just then Buffy let out a cry. Spike’s head snapped up.

Buffy was staring down at her wrist. The leather band had fallen off.

Spike jumped back on the table and ran over to Buffy.

“So, much blood.” Buffy cried.

Spike picked her up and rocked her back and forth. “It’s all right my love. There’s no more.” he whispered, kissing her head.

Dalton watched them, a bit mystified with the whole scene. He had seen just how many minions The Master had. How they all cowered in fear of him.

The Master exuded power. No one dared defy him. He had seen some powerful demons in his life, but this one could bend people to his will with a three word sentence. He had only ever heard of one other vampire with such an ability to thrall. Mysteriously, that vampire had disappeared.

But sitting there now with the angelic-looking, tortured girl, he looked like a scared teenage boy. He rocked her back and forth, trying to soothe her with his words. Trying to lull the creature out of her frenzy.

Dalton saw Spike kiss her forehead and stroke her soft cheek. Various emotions swept across his face. Concern, hurt, pain, immense fea,r and again, a look Dalton could only describe as....love.

Again, could vampires feel love?

Buffy hugged Spike tightly.

“Daddy why so many pictures? Make them go away!” she sobbed into his chest.

Spike took the leather band and tied it tightly around Buffy’s wrist. He kissed it lightly, then gave her one of those Eskimo kisses on her nose that always made her giggle.

“See my Perfect Princess? No more pictures.” Spike whispered in her ear. He kissed her lightly on the lips.

Buffy looked down at her wrist and sighed, closing her eyes.

“My Princess is tired, isn’t she?”

Burying her face in Spike’s chest, she nodded.

“Let’s get to bed then.” Spike announced. He cradled Buffy in his arms and stood up.

Dalton watched as he jumped off the table.

Spike gave Dalton a cold glare. A glare that sent a shiver down his spine and caused his heart to pound against to ribcage once more.

“You have until tomorrow.” Spike said, cryptically.

Dalton gulped hard, searching through the book and praying to find an answer.

Spike sat across from Dalton as he furiously wrote notes on a pad of paper. Dalton’s hand shook madly.

“Time’s a wastin’, Dalton.” Spike said, looking up at the ceiling.

“I may have found so..something.” Dalton said.

Spike cocked his eyebrow up. “Really? Care to share with the class what that might be?”

“Please sir, if I had another day...” Dalton whispered.

Spike slammed his hand down on the table, making Dalton flinch. “You’re really starting to piss me off, mate!”

The large double doors swung open. Spike looked up, his rage fading as he watched as Buffy walked in.

A brilliant smile lit his face.

Immediately, Dalton was relieved. When the tortured girl was around The Master seemed to be a bit calmer.

Buffy danced in playing with the music box The Slayer had given her. The music tinkled sweetly around her and her expression was happy and relaxed.

Spike remembered how Lizzie had loved the little box. Sometimes, when they were still alive, he would slip into her window and see her sitting there, winding the crane and humming along with the song as it played.

At times, he was jealous that he had not the one that gave it to her, that he was not the one that had taken her to that damned Faire.

Damn Slayer duties.

He hated that part of his life even more because it took time away from her. More time they should have had together. More memories she should have been making with him.

Then he would see the look in her eyes when she played with it and his anger would fade. His heart always felt like it would explode. She always looked so peaceful, happy.

She would always look up, smiling, and reach out to him.

Spike would join her on her bed. He would wrap her up in his arms, close his eyes, and fall asleep to the lullaby.

Feeling complete again.

The demon inside raged at the sight of it. It was something that his mate shared with someone else. The demon wanted to rip it to shreds and establish it’s claim over her all over again.

Spike, however, knew it was easing her tortured mind. Because of that he let her keep it.

Anything to keep that look on her face....

Buffy smiled at Spike and ran to climb onto his lap.

Spike kissed her lightly on the lips. “Did my Princess sleep well?”

Buffy nodded and then pouted.

“What’s that about now?” Spike asked.

“The Princess is hungry.” Buffy said, glancing over at Dalton.

Dalton gulped. In a split second his relief at the sight of the girl turned into fear.

“Well, my little Luv, let’s see what we can get to fill that cute tummy of yours.” Spike announced.

Praying that it wouldn’t be him, Dalton stared down at his notes.

“Yes, I think this is it.”

Spike glared over at him. “You wouldn’t be pulling my leg now, would you? I don’t have a very good sense of humor when it comes to this matter.”

“Daddy does like it when people laugh at him.” Buffy explained, shaking her head.

“So what do you have?” Spike asked. He sat Buffy down on the table and walked over to Dalton.

“Th..this is the Statue of Aradia, the guardian of the lost.” Dalton showed him a picture of a statue.

“And what does it do?” Spike asked.

“It was used in ancient times. People lost in their travels would come and pay homage to it to try to find their way out of the darkness. If Aradia accepted, the traveler would always find their way home.” Dalton explained.

Spike sneered at the man. “THIS IS THE BEST YOU COULD COME UP WITH!!” he yelled, dragging Dalton to his feet.

“No, no sir please listen.” Dalton pleaded.

Spike released him. “You have the floor.”

“Your, friend...” Dalton started.

“My friend?” he said, incredulous. “Look at her!” Spike grabbed Dalton by the collar.

“LOOK AT HER!” He screamed again.

Dalton looked at the girl, quivering with fear.

“Friend? That is my Princess. My love, my blood, my world. She is everything to me! If you insult her with such a trivial title again, I will make you her next meal!” Spike hissed savagely.

“You’re a bad man for always making Daddy so mad.” Buffy giggled, wagging her finger at Dalton. “Shame on you!”

Spike smiled wickedly over at Buffy and let out a lustful growl. He loved when she was like this. His partner in fear and torture. Co-signing on his bloodlust.

Spike pushed the man back into his seat, smoothing out Dalton’s lapels and smiling.

“Now get on with it. I’m getting tired of your whimpering.”

Dalton gulped hard. “My point is that with the right spell and a powerful wizard, per..perhaps we can call on Aradia to restore her mentally. Being lost does not always necessarily mean in a physical sense. You..Your Princess seems to be lost in her mind. Perhaps if the right sacrifice is offered, then Aradia will bring her out of her darkness.”

Spike looked at the text and the statue. The idea was the best one he had heard in a long time.

Spike looked over at Buffy. She sat there on the table, oblivious to everything around her. She is lost. If there was a way to find her inside, if this could make her whole again, Spike would have his Lizzie back.

There was always hope.

Buffy sensing Spike looking at her. She lifted her head and met his eyes with a smile. “Daddy looks happy!”

Spike walked over to her and picked her up. “Daddy just got some good news, Luv.” he said, spinning her around and making her giggle.

“Sir, the spell should be easy. But the wizard will have to be someone with great power. Someone who’s energy force is very strong.” Dalton explained.

“Wizard huh? How about a witch? I think I know just the person.” Spike said, smiling wickedly.

**

Across town the Scoobies were assembled in The Giles living room researching the best way to attack the den of Pargo demons that had settled in Sunnydale. Much to the Scoobies shock and amusement, a Pargo demon could only die from being drowned.

“Why don’t we just send Willow. She can do a tidal wave or something.” William kidded.

Rupert Giles laughed. “I don’t think that is a practical solution, son.”

“Sure, with my luck I‘ll do the spell and it will rain macaroni or something lame like that.” Willow sighed.

Rupert walked up to the young witch and smiled. “Willow you have amazing
power. You just need to learn how to harness it.” He reassured her.

William frowned for a moment.

He hated when Willow underestimated herself. She was a truly talented witch.

On more than one occasion Willow’s magic was so strong that she had cast spells without even knowing she had.

Something William was always mindful of. He was careful never to get too emotional around the young women knowing that Willow could pick up on his thoughts if he did.

Afraid of what she might see..

There were just some things he was not ready for her to see.

On cue Dawnie smiled and took Willow’s hand.

It amazed William how Dawn always knew how to reassure people.

“Still, it’s gotta be cool to be a witch.” Dawn said.

Willow smiled at her. “Yeah, I guess there are worse things to be than a
witch.”

Achilles Heel

After all the Scoobies had left and Dawn was safely tucked in bed, William
gathered his gear for the night’s slaying activities and into his father’s
study to let him know he was leaving.

Rupert was on the phone and ushered William in. “Well, I am sure this news
will be an enormous relief to William. We have been looking for a
breakthrough on this matter for sometime now.” he said, looking at his
son with a wide smile.

William sat down, waiting patiently for his father to finish his
conversation.

“Yes, Sir! And I will report any progress on that situation as soon as
possible.” Rupert said.

Hanging up the phone, Rupert looked at his son and sighed in relief.

“Well, something has brightened your night considerably.” William said.

“A well known expert on the Occult has been abducted.” Rupert explained.

William looked at his father, confused. “And this is good news because..?”

“We’ve received word from a demon contact that The Master has been combing
ancient texts for some type of a cure. Apparently he has a mate and she is
ill.” Rupert said, looking at his notes.

William gripped his knees so tightly his knuckles turned white.

Oh God, they know! he thought.

“So do they think The Master has this...”

“Dalton, Dalton Avery.” Rupert supplied.

“Right.” William said, trying to sound nonchalant.

“Yes, we do. He has an associate in Los Angeles that is traveling here
tomorrow to gather information.” Rupert said. He looked up at his son.

“William are you all right?”

“I’m fine. I just wonder how much of this rumor is true. In the two years
The Master has been in Sunnydale, we haven’t heard anything like this.”
William said, trying to calm his rapid heartbeat.

Rupert smiled at his son. “It’s good that you are skeptical. That’s what
makes you a good Slayer. Regardless, we have to look into this matter. For
one, there is an innocent out there that may need your help. But there is
also The Master. This situation with his mate could be the very weakness we
have been looking for. His hold on The Hellmouth has been unprecedented. If
we could exploit this weakness...”

“NO!” William screamed, jumping to his feet.

The thought of using Buffy…He suddenly felt violently ill.

“William, what’s gotten it you?” Rupert demanded, shocked by his sons
outburst.

William closed his eyes.

“Shit! Think fast, Will!” he thought.

“I am not going to risk anyone’s safety.” He finally said quietly. “This may be nothing but a clever ruse. I am not going to risk anyone I care about
based on shaky information from some outside source.”

“I understand your position William, really I do. You have been actively
seeking out The Master for two years. Obviously, he is very good, but I also
feel he has been getting a lot of assistance in hiding his identity from us.” Rupert mused, getting to his feet.

“Seems that way.” William said, nervously twirling a stake.

“Either way, William, we must investigate this new turn of events. This Master has ruled the Hellmouth since around the time of your brother’s death. His power and his strength are like nothing The Council has ever seen.” Rupert stated.

William’s heart began trying to pound out of his chest. He hated when his father did this. He would start talking about The Master as if he was searching for some sort of answer to a puzzle. William was always so afraid that one day his father would find the missing piece and the ugly truth would come spilling out.

He tried to focus on something, anything to keep from giving himself away to his father. He took long deep breaths trying to look as calm as possible. All the while his heart pounded with that sickening beat.

“William if this is true about his mate, then it can be the key in our struggle to gain the upper hand with The Master. He has held all the cards until this point. If there is something in this world he holds more dear to him than his power it is our duty to try and use it to gain control of him.” Rupert said, opening another volume of his journals.

“I have been researching the effects of Mated vampires...”

William gulped hard. Everything in him screamed out in agony. He knew all about the effect of mated vampires. He watched it night after night.

Again one thought consumed him.

Buffy.

He’d always known that Buffy was the key to Spike’s power. He knew that to take down Spike, all anyone had to do was touch Buffy.

Now what was he supposed to do? Why did it have to be HIM?

How could he destroy Buffy when he had spent two years protecting her from that very fate?

A million thoughts and emotions flooded through William. His greatest fear
was being laid before his eyes. Would he lie to all of them yet again or
would he finally be free of his secret? The last two years of his life began
to play out in his mind. If they knew about Buffy and Spike, would they ever
forgive him?

Both men heard a gasp come from the doorway. William turned and saw Willow
standing there, her face ghostly pale.

“Um, hi guys. I..I forgot my sweater, then thought I could maybe stick
around and help Will patrol tonight. I heard you yell, Will and I…well, um
if you guys are busy..” Willow stammered.

“No, Willow, I am sure William would appreciate the company. It will give
him the opportunity to fill you in on some crucial information we received
from one of our sources tonight.” Rupert said, looking through another of his
books.

Willow looked down, suddenly very interested in her feet.

Rupert looked at the girl and frowned. “Willow are you feeling well. You’re
white as a sheet.” He observed.

Willow nodded. “I’m fine.”

William looked at his friend concerned.

Slowly, Willow raised her head and her eyes met his. William felt her
connect to his thoughts again...

AGAIN? He thought to himself.

Then realization dawned on William. She had been connected before, moments
before.

He closed his eyes.

Oh, Bollocks..

“Will stop!” Willow cried.

Will walked briskly thought the cemetery.

“Go home Red.” He yelled.

“Will! We have to talk about this!”

“Bloody Hell, women! Are you trying to get us killed? You might as well scream ‘Hey vamps come get me!’ Go home and get some rest. We’ll talk tomorrow.” William said, his angry eyes sweeping the cemetery.

“I didn’t do it on purpose. You know sometimes I can‘t help it.” Willow whispered.

William took a few deep breaths desperately trying to calm himself.

“You’re emotions were so jumbled up, before I knew it, POW! I was in Wills deep thought land.” She explained.

William slumped down on a stone bench and hung his head low.

“Is..is it true? Spike and Lizzie are...” Willow couldn’t bring herself to finish her sentence.

“Not Lizzie. Buffy. She barely remembers being Lizzie.” William whispered, clenching his jaw.

Willow sat down next to William. She should be angry. She should feel betrayed. But all she could feel was Williams hurt and anguish.

“Why Will? Why didn’t you tell us?” she asked.

William shook his head. “You wouldn’t understand Red.” he said softly.

“Because of Dawnie? You didn’t want her to know?”

“What do you think that would have done to her? Knowing her sister is out there. Lizzie was everything to her, and now she’s some lost and tortured creature!” William said.

Willow looked down for a second. “That’s not the only reason, is it?”

William looked at Willow in confusion.

“I was there Will; I just didn’t see it...”

“Spike never told you those things, did he? You were talking about yourself, weren’t you? Oh God, Will! How could I have been so blind?” Willow said, shaking her head.

William hung his head. “You don’t know, Red. It’s been so hard and she’s so sick. I couldn’t tell anyone.” he whispered.

The tingling at the back of his neck brought William surging to his feet. Shoving Willow behind him, he watched as about twenty vamps approached them. He pulled out his stake, ready to do battle.

“Don’t worry Slayer, we’re not here for you tonight.” One of The Vamps said.

William advanced toward them. “Oh really then what are you were for then, eh?” he asked. Suddenly, he felt something move behind them.

THUD!!

Willow watched in horror as William fell to the ground in a heap. “WILL!!” She screamed, reaching for her friend.

“We’re here for her...” she heard.

Willow felt arms grab her around her waist and swing her into a group of vampires.

Struggling to break free, she closed her eyes and screamed as loud as she could.

“Quiet!” She heard in her head.

Feeling a cold hand touch her cheek, Willow opened her eyes and gasped.

“Hey Red, long time no see.” The voice in her head said.

“Spike...”

William woke up in his bed with Dawn staring down at him in concern.

“RED!” He screamed.

“Giles! He’s up!” Dawn yelled.

Rupert ran in. “Thank God!” he muttered, making his way to his son’s bedside.

“Red? Is she okay?” William asked, his head pounding.

Dawn and Rupert exchanged a worried look. Their silence caused a sick foreboding to course through him.

“William, Willow is missing.” Rupert finally told him.

William tried to bolt out of bed, but the sudden dizziness from trying to move too fast made him fall back on the bed.

“I have to go find her!” William cried, desperate.

Rupert held his son down.

William buried his face in his hands. “This is all my fault.” He whispered. “I should have protected her.”

“Well, we know she’s not dead.” Rupert said. “I did a locator spell. From my calculations she is being held in this general area.” He unrolled the map he had used for the spell and pointed. “I’m afraid she is at The Master’s Lair.”

Spike. William thought. What on earth would Spike want with Willow?

“I don’t understand, Da. What possible use would The Master have for Willow? Why didn’t he grab me while he had the chance?”

“Because he needs her to perform powerful magic.” A voice said.

William looked and saw a large man standing in the door way. The familiar all too familiar tingling sensation crept up his neck.

Vampire....

William shot off of the bed, no longer conscious of the pain in his head. He pushed Dawn behind him and reached for the stake under his mattress. Yanking it out, he glared at the man standing in front of him.

“Da! Get away from him!” William yelled as he charged forward.

Rupert grabbed his son and fought to hold him back.

“It’s all right William! I know him. I let him in.” he explained.

“You let this thing into the house with Dawn?!!” William raged.

“It’s all right, William! He is a vampire, but he’s been sanctioned by The Council.” Rupert said, tensed to leap between them if necessary.

The vampire walked slowly to stand in front of the irate slayer and stretched out his hand. “My name is Liam. Most people call me Angel. I’m here to help...”

******

Willow woke up in a large bed. Without opening her eyes, she tried her best to “connect” with William or one of the other scoobies, but nothing happened.

Something or someone was draining all of her powers. When she looked around her she saw them. Hundreds of tiny little statues that cast a tingling cloak of energy all around the room.

“Kind of neat, innit? Makes this sort of like a magic dampening room.” The voice seemed familiar and she soon found the owner of it. Spike sat on a chair in the corner, staring at her intently.

Willow gulped then looked down at her lap, afraid to meet his eyes.

“Now, Red, I have to say I’m disappointed. I would have expected a eep! or one of your classic Oh my Goddess! exclamations, but nothing? Don’t tell me that my dear little brother let you in on his dirty little secret? Surely not! He enjoys torturing himself with it so immensely.” Spike smirked.

Willow crossed her arms in front of her. She had to remember this was no longer her friend. This wasn’t the guy that taught her how to drive or made Oz fess up to finally to being in love with her. This was evil. This was a demon.

Spike sighed. “Cat got your tongue, Red? You’re usually so polite.”

“What do you want from me?” Willow asked, quietly.

Spike stood up and began pacing back and forth. “It’s simple, really. I need you to work some magic for me.”

“Why me?” Willow demanded to know.

“Well given the limit of selection in Sunnydale, you were the obvious choice. You are powerful. The only powerful wizard in Sunnydale is Rupert, and I don’t trust myself not to not drain the bastard dry on sight.” Spike said, cracking his neck. “So, all you have to do is say a little ditty for me and you’ll be on your merry way.”

“Wh..what.....” Willow began. Before she could ask her question the door swung open. Willow gasped as an distraught Buffy ran through the door. “Lizzie.” She whispered, shocked.

“What’s this all about?” Spike asked, gathering Buffy in his arms.

Buffy held him tightly, shaking against him as she continued to cry.

“Did the pictures come again?” Spike asked, rubbing her back soothingly.

Buffy nodded furiously.

“Don’t worry, my Perfect Princess. Daddy will make them all go away.” He assured her.

For a moment, the site of Spike holding Buffy in his lap transported Willow back to their high school days.

Perfect Princess.

Willow stared at Lizzie, shocked and saddened by her appearance. They had been best friends for years. Memories of the two of them sitting in her room talking, watching movies swooning over their boyfriends filled her head.

Suddenly, Buffy’s head snapped up and she looked over at their guest. She got up from Spike’s lap and slowly walked over and stared at her.

Willow watched nervously as confusion crossed Buffy’s face.

Buffy frowned. She looked like she was trying to capture some elusive memory that floated just out of reach in her mind.

“You’re hands are cold and clammy.” She finally whispered.

“Lizzie?” Willow asked, her voice soft and gentle. “Do you remember me? It’s Willow.”

Buffy jumped back a bit. Holding her head in her hands she began to sink to the ground. Spike caught her, gathering her up into his arms.

“Shhh, it’s okay, Princess.”

“What’s wrong with her?” Willow asked, forgetting her fear for a moment.

“She’s sick. There’s a bloke that says she’s lost. He says we can do a spell and make some sort of sacrifice to a statue and it might bring her back from the darkness.” Spike said, resting his cheek on Buffy’s golden hair.

“I..I’m the sacrifice?” Willow asked.

Spike rolled his eyes. “No, you nit! I need you to do the spell part. We already have the bloody sacrifice!” he sneered, the harshness of his tone causing Buffy to whimper.

“There, there, Pet. Daddy didn’t mean it.” He soothed, kissing the top of her head.

Willow looked at Spike. “You still love her, even though you’re all grr and stuff?”

“She’s my world.” Spike replied, looking lovingly down at Buffy.

He suddenly glared at Willow. “Do the spell and I’ll let you go. I’ll even give you a bonus. You do the spell, she gets better, and we will leave.” he growled, holding Buffy tighter as she started to play with the buttons on his red shirt.

“You mean as in le...leave Sunnydale?” Willow asked.

“Yeah, that’s the idea. Don’t think she would want to stay. Just stuck around because she was safe here. When she’s better…” Spike stopped, getting all choked up. He closed his eyes and pressed his forehead to hers before he continued.

“When, she’s better, my brother and all you little Scoobies can go back to ridding the world of our kind.” He spat out.

Willow looked at them. Spike continued to stare down at Buffy, concerned. She looked at the girl that had once been her friend. Poor Lizzie. So broken and lost.

“I’ll do it Spike.” Willow said quietly.

Spike looked at her for a moment, shocked. He had been so sure he would have to threaten her or tell her he would kill Oz if she didn’t give into his demands.

They stared at each other for a moment.

Spike continued to eye her suspiciously as she reached out for Buffy.

Feeling Willows soft hand on her arm, Buffy turned and looked at her.

“Daddy she’s so pretty.” Buffy whispered.

Willow smiled. “Don’t worry, we’ll make you all better soon.” she said softly, looking at Buffy with love and concern. She then looked at Spike for another moment before she cast her eyes down.

“Right.” Spike choked. He began to walk out the door with Buffy in his arms. After he opened the door, he stopped for a moment.

Willow could hear it. Two words, said so quietly that if she had not been listening so intently, she would have missed them...

“Thank You...”

**

William sat in bed as Angel talked to him.

“The Statue of Aradia was stolen from a private collection in San Diego two nights ago. At the same time a book was taken from a friend of mine. It correlates with the statue.” Angel explained.

“So what does the statue do?” William asked.

“It guides the lost. You make a sacrifice to it and Aradia the guardian helps the lost find their way home.” Angel explained.

Lost, Lizzie… William thought.

“We know why the Master kidnapped Dalton. He needed him to translate the book that was taken. What we don’t know is why he took your young friend. It’s well known that Mr. Giles is far more powerful than she is. It doesn’t make sense that he would take a novice over a Master Sorcerer. We were hoping you could shed some light on that.” There was a slight accusatory inflection in Angel’s voice.

William’s eyes narrowed, glinting dangerously at the vamp. “I don’t bloody care why, I just want to get Red back.”

“Just keep this in mind, then. Whatever the Masters plans might be, if your friend isn’t powerful enough, this could all blow up in The Masters face.” Angel said.

“How?” William asked.

“If Aradia does not accept the sacrifice, it will destroy the person seeking help.”

God, no! Willow and Lizzie! William thought.

“We need to get moving!” he said, jumping off of the bed.

“Are you accepting my help?” Angel asked.

“Why are you helping?” William asked. “What do you have to gain from all this?”

Angel sighed. “Because Dalton is in trouble. Dalton is a lot of things. Sniveling, a bit greedy, and at times he has a really screwed moral compass, but deep down he’s a man that’s done a lot of good. He has helped me in the past. I owe him. ” the vampire explained. He then extended his hand to William. “Do we help each other, or what?”

William looked the man up and down. Finally he took his hand and shook it.

“I accept.”

Willow stared out the small window of the room she was being held in. She was trying to make sense of the last few days.

Spike was the Master, Buffy was Lizzie but not really, and William… William had known this all along. She really wanted to be angry about that but found that she couldn’t. Not after feeling William’s pain and torment.

She had agreed with very little resistance to help Spike, trying to convince herself it was because she knew if she did not she would die, but that wasn’t the truth.

It was because of Lizzie.

Poor, fragile Lizzie. She had lost so much and Willow always felt guilty for not being a better friend.

Willow heard the door open and saw Buffy walk in holding the small silver box.

She knew that box. William had given it to Lizzie as a present two and a half years ago.

How could two and a half years seem like a lifetime ago?

Buffy wound the tiny crane in her hand. She looked up at Willow and gave her a shaky smile. “It makes the pictures stop.” she whispered, sitting on the floor Indian style.

Willow walked over and sat carefully across from her, sensing that she shouldn’t make any sudden moves.

“Pictures?” Willow asked.

Buffy looked up and pointed to her head.

Willow nodded, suddenly understanding.

“Um…Buffy? Maybe I could help with the pictures?” Willow asked.

“NO!” The both jumped and Willow’s head snapped up. Spike was standing over them glaring at her.

“What are you trying to pull Red?” Spike said his voice unsteady.

“No..nothing Spike! I swear! I just thought maybe if I saw...”

“I SAID NO!” Spike yelled.

Buffy giggled. “Don’t make Daddy mad.” She said shaking her finger at Willow.

“It’s too much for her.” Spike said, reaching out for Buffy.

Buffy slipped easily into his embrace and buried her head in his chest.

“When she sees those bloody pictures, she gets so confused.” Spike said quietly, kissing the top of Buffy’s head.

Willow looked at Spike.

“What is it Red? I know you’re dying to ask something.” Spike said, rolling his eyes.

Willow gulped, but continued with determination. “I just never knew that… you know… after a vampire becomes a well...a...vampire. They can still feel...”

“Love?” Spike supplied.

Willow nodded.

Spike looked down at Buffy. “Bit strange innit? I’m an evil soulless monster. I would think nothing about ripping your head off. I would really feel no remorse. None whatsoever.” Spike said matter of factly.

“I think I get the point.” She muttered, eyes wide.

“Ah...right, sorry. I was merely sayin‘, everything I used to care about no longer means anything to me. Except for her.” Spike said tipping Buffy’s head back to stare into her eyes.

She looked into her mates eyes and smiled. Spike gently kissed her lips he stroked her cheek. There was silence for a few moments.

“I shouldn’t have been able to kill her you know?” Spike said abruptly.

“Kill who?” Willow said.

“That daft bird that turned me. Technically she was my Sire. I should not have had the strength to kill her.” Spike explained.

“You killed her?” Willow asked surprised.

Spike raised his eyebrows. “Did I stutter?”

“Um, right. Moot point. So you killed your Sire and you shouldn’t have been able to but some how you could and did.” Willow repeated.

“You’re part of the crack team that foils my every plan? I am deeply ashamed.” Spike said, shaking his head.

“There’s no need to get snippy!” Willow said crossing her arms.

“Damn it Red! You haven’t changed a bit!” Spike groaned.

“You haven’t either, that’s for sure!” At his glare she feigned contrition.

“I’m sorry, please continue.”

Buffy wrapped her arms around Spike and purred.

“Like I said, I shouldn’t have been able to do it. Sire/Childe bond and all. But she said something. It completely pissed me off.” Spike chuckled.

“What did she say?” Willow asked.

“Said I belonged to her. I looked in her eyes I knew she was wrong.” he said, holding Buffy tighter.

Buffy stroked Spikes cheek as he closed his eyes and kissed her hand. It was the same love and devotion they had shown when they were alive.

“I only belong to one person. Always had me in the palm of her hand, this one did.” Spike said.

“I know I’m a monster. But even like this, in this state, she treats me like a man and that’s....” he stopped, getting choked up as Buffy gazed up at him with complete adoration.

He lifted his eyes to meet Willow’s and she was shocked to see his were filled with tears.

Suddenly his face hardened once more. “Get ready. The statue will be here shortly.” He ordered, setting Buffy on her feet and pulling her behind him.

Willow nodded and watched the dark couple leave the room.

**


William stared out his window at Lizzie’s window across the way. Sometimes, if he concentrated really hard, if he allowed his emotions to surface, he could see her. Dancing to music only she heard. Smiling at him. Waving at him.

Sometimes, she would blow him a kiss and close her curtains like she had done so many times before. A lifetime ago. He sat at his desk trying to stop the world from spinning.

It wasn’t fair. He was the one left with all the memories. Guardian of the Secrets. Keeper of the Betrayals. It seemed an impossible task, yet somehow he did it. Night after night.

“You’re the strong one.” He heard Lizzie’s sweet voice in his head.

But he was so very tired of being strong.

There was a light tap on the door and William smiled. “Come in, Bit.”

Dawn came in, a disgruntled expression on her face. “Hey, everyone is downstairs waiting for you. Even Mr. Tall, Dark and Foreheady.” She sniped.

“You’re not easily won over are you?” William chuckled.

“It just sounds so lame. A vampire cursed with a soul?” Dawn said, rolling her eyes.

She suddenly crossed the room and wrapped her arms around William in a fierce hug.

“What’s this about?” William asked, concerned.

“I don’t know. Something just feels wrong, William. I don’t want you to go. I know you have to because of Willow, but it just feels like there’s this huge piece of the puzzle none of us know about.” Dawn said quietly.

William felt his knees start to shake with nerves. He knew Dawn would sense things about people that others couldn’t.

“Dawnie, you know I would do anything to protect you. You’re my sister. Maybe not by blood, but you are no matter what.” William said.

Dawn nodded. “I know that’s why I don’t want to lose you. I can’t lose you. Not like I lost Mom, Lizzie, and Spike. You guys are my family. Please Will, be careful.” She cried.

Just then William saw his father standing at the door and nudged Dawn.

Dawn looked at Giles and smiled.

“Must be time for the Slayer/ Watcher chit-chat.” Dawn groaned.

She began to walk out of the room and was stopped by Giles who kissed her on top of the head.

Dawn smiled, looked back at Will, and walked out.

William turned back to the window.

“You don’t think I know how much you miss her do you William?” Rupert said. He came to stand next to his son.

“I always thought our family was complete. We never said it, but while your mother and I decided we could not in good conscience have any more children, we longed for a daughter. Not just for us, but for you and Spike. Someone the two of you could dote on. Protect. I never felt our family was complete until The Summer’s moved across the way. Jenny missed Janna so much and Joyce seemed to fill that void. And those two little girls…they crawled into my boys’ hearts so quietly. So easily.” Rupert said, shaking his head in amusement.

William sat quietly, listening to his father.

“You should have seen the both of you. When they came into our lives it was like a light turned on in both of you. When Jenny died, if Joyce had not been there being so supportive. I don’t think I could have gotten through it. So yes son, I understand how much you miss her.” Rupert explained.

He looked at William with a strange expression.

“It must have been incredibly hard for you.”

William looked at his father, confused at the sudden turn in the conversation.

Rupert chuckled. “It was never my business, but I am a Watcher. Not only of Slayers, but also of my sons. I saw the look in your eyes when Lizzie was around.”

William looked down, embarrassed.

“You were very admirable and very brave. Lizzie always said you were the strong one.” Rupert said.

Tears began to spill out of William’s eyes.

“Da, I have been keeping something from you. Something you should have know about from the first. Something that may make you hate me.” he whispered.

“You are my son. Nothing you say could ever make me hate you.” Rupert said, rubbing his son’s shoulder.

William took a deep breath.

“Sit down Da, there’s something you need to know about Spike...”

Rupert Giles sat on his son’s bed trying to digest everything he had just been told.

“Spike is a...” Giles said.

“And The Master.” William replied quietly.

“And all this time you knew?” Giles asked.

William nodded his head slowly.

“Lizzie.” Giles whispered.

William covered his face with his hands.

“Surely it’s some trick! I’m the one that found Lizzie!” Rupert yelled

“That’s the part I don’t understand. I have seen the marks on her neck. I know Spike turned her. I know you found her and called the authorities. But how did you miss it?” William asked.

“Oh dear Lord...”

“She was wearing a turtleneck. I did not even think to check for puncture wounds.” Rupert said shaking his head.

“When I came to Spike had changed her clothes. She was wearing the same outfit she wore for his memorial service.” William whispered.

Rupert looked at his son.

William hung his head low. “I understand if you want me to leave.”

“Son, please...”

“NO DON’T YOU DARE FORGIVE ME!!! NOT AFTER WHAT I HAVE DONE!!” William screamed.

“William, calm down.” Rupert said, leaping to his feet.

“It’s all my fault I should have ended this. I should have gone through it. But I couldn’t. You always call me the strong one but I was too weak that night. I shouldn’t have let it happen. But I was selfish and stupid. I brought her to Spike. He was right! I knew what he would do but I let him, because I couldn’t imagine a world without her. I helped do this to her.” William cried, collapsing to the floor.

Giles rushed over to his son and pulled him into his arms, gripping him fiercely.

William looked up at his father, his face wet with tears. “I could deal with not being the Slayer anymore. I could deal with that. But I couldn’t deal with the looks on your faces. You and Dawnie; I let you down.” He whispered. “You must be so disappointed in me.”

“No, no, I'm not.” Rupert answered, rocking him gently.

“But this is all my fault.” William said.

“Do you want me to wag my finger at you and tell you that you acted rashly? You did. And I can. I know that you loved her. And William, she loved you. Tonight is going to be hard on you. Harder on you than the rest of us.” Rupert said.

“But Da, you’re going to see them. You’ll see Spike.” William said, trying to make his father understand.

“Spike is dead William. That thing inhabiting his body is a demon.” Rupert said coldly.

“Da, it’s him. I know you don’t think so but when you see them...I should have been stronger. I’m The Slayer. I should have killed both of them. But her eyes. Sometimes I would see Lizzie, but then I couldn’t. I can’t. I should be able to, but I don’t know how to let her go.”

Rupert looked at his son.

“How can I judge you after all that I’ve done? I defied fate for my own gain. For my own reasons. If I judge you it would make me a hypocrite. You know what you have to do don’t you William?” Rupert questioned.

William nodded. “Da, I know it doesn’t mean a thing, but I am sorry.”

“If it’s guilt you're looking for, William, I'm not your man. All you will get from me is, is my support, my respect, and my love.” Rupert said hugging his son.

They heard someone clear their throat from the doorway.

Both men looked up and saw Angel standing there.

“It’s time to go.” He said somberly.

Rupert stood up and reached down for his son.

William took his hand and let his father help him to his feet.

They had been gone for a while. Dawn sat in the living room trying to ignore the jittery feeling inside her. The rain outside was getting stronger and she realized she couldn’t remember the last time it had rained in Sunnydale.

Something just didn’t seem right. She couldn’t put her finger on it.

Suddenly she heard a knock on the door. She rushed over to open it.

A beautiful, dark-haired woman stood there, her slim hands clutching a very large canvas bag. She was drenched from the rain and shaking so bad her teeth chattered.

“Is he here?” The woman asked.

“Who are you?” Dawn demanded, arching an eyebrow at her rudeness.

“My name is Cordelia Chase. You all are in grave danger. A man came to you. Is he here?” She pleaded.

Dawn shook her head. “They all left a little while ago.”

Cordelia’s face fell.

“Oh dear God, I’m too late....”

Cordelia sat in the living room of the Giles home, trembling. Dawn had tried to calm her down enough to get the whole story out of her but was having no luck. She tried very hard not to let her exasperation at the dark-haired woman’s behavior show. She wanted to help the other woman but all she could think about was what she had said.

Cordelia had driven straight up from Los Angeles on no sleep. She would have arrived sooner but she had lost the directions Angel’s partner, Gunn, had given her.

“What do you mean They are all in grave danger?” Dawn asked, fighting to keep her voice soothing.

Cordelia closed her eyes, wondering how much she should tell this 13 year old girl.

Dawnie rolled her eyes. “Let’s cut to the chase, shall we?” At Cordelia’s nod she continued.

“I live on the Hellmouth. I know there are demons, vampires, and all kinds of other monsters that most people only see in cheesy B movies. There are also the ones that fight against the monsters. Wizards, witches, a whole council of stuffy old tweedsters in London, watchers, and, finally, the Chosen One. The Slayer. The last two happen to live right in this house with me. The watcher is my guardian and Will is the Slayer. Now that you know you don’t have to be all delicate and fairy-tale-ish around me, you need to spill!” she demanded.

“That vampire you met he is not Angel. Well, he is, but not really. His name is Angelus.” Cordelia explained.

“I don’t understand.”

Cordelia closed her eyes, and began her story…

Dawn looked at the girl.

“So you’re saying that thing out there with my father and my brother is evil?” Dawn cried.

“We knew the soul was a curse; revenge on him by a band of gypsies because he killed their favored daughter. What we didn’t know was that because of his crime, he wasn’t allowed to feel a moment of true happiness. If he did...he would lose his soul.” Cordelia sobbed. “This is all my fault. If we hadn’t made love…”

“Um…right. So what is he doing here?”

“Because he is a truly evil being, He wants to destroy everything.”

“Everything?” Dawn said, skeptically.

Cordelia nodded. “Everything in the world as we know it. He wants to kill the slayer, and he wants revenge for what he considers a crime against him.”

All Dawn heard was ‘kill the slayer’.

Will!

“Oh God we have to find them!” Dawn said, grabbing her jacket.

The rain had stopped. Rupert Giles stood beside his son as they prepared to rescue the quirky little red-haired girl he had come to know and love as one of his own. Troubled thoughts lay heavy on his mind.

In his time he had seen old friends and colleagues turned. He had been trained in how to deal with these situations and had always done his duty. A swift stake through the heart or the swing of a sharp blade to decapitate the soulless creature and problem solved.

It should be easy.

But it wasn’t.

This creature had once been his son.

Memories of a million *firsts* filled his head. The moment the doctor placed the firstborn twin in his arms. Jenny’s face soft with love as she nursed him. His first steps; running towards the door like he wanted to conquer the world. School days. The first song he ever wrote.

His love for Lizzie.

He was a fool to think he could handle it. How could he look into his son’s eyes and think of him as nothing but a demon when he was responsible for taking his life away? The biggest mistake of his life had been thinking Spike was strong enough to endure his calling as the Slayer. Forcing to accept his fate when everything he ever said should have told him otherwise.

William glanced at his father, well aware of the path his thoughts were taking. It had been stronger for him because of the twins bond, but he’d had two years to adjust.

His father had only known for one day.

“Stay behind, Da. We’ll let you know if anything happens.” William ordered, his voice flat and jaw hard as he slipped into slayer mode.

Rupert nodded, unwilling to argue with his sons commanding tone. Seating himself on the hood of his car he watched as William and Angel entered the mansion.

The Master’s mansion. His son, Spike, was the Master Vampire of Sunnydale. Was there a part of him that was still Randolph? Still a piece of Rupert and the wife he adored? He couldn’t....

It all was so jumbled inside. His head was beginning to hurt as badly as his heart did.

Hearing a car approach. Giles turned around. It screeched to a stop and Dawn flew out of the front seat, long hair flying as she running toward Giles.

“DAD!”

Rupert felt his heart lurch. Dawn had never called him that before tonight.

When she reached him she threw her arms around him, sobbing with relief as she clung to him.

“Dawnie? What on earth?”

“Thank God you’re okay! I don’t know what I would do if anything happened to you.“ She buried her face in his neck. “I love you, Dad!” she cried.

Trying to swallow over the lump in his throat, Rupert stroked Dawn’s hair, soothing his daughter the best he could. His daughter, he thought. Yes, in every way but birth she was a part of his life.

“I love you, too, Dawnie. But it’s far too dangerous for you to be out here. What were you thinking? And who is this?” He asked, looking at the damp and bedraggled brunette that had followed Dawn form the car.

“My name is Cordelia Chase, Mr. Giles. I’m here to help you.” Cordelia said.

“I don’t understand.” Giles said.

“A friend of yours sent me. Wesley Wyndham-Pryce.”

Giles knew Wesley as a Watcher-in-training doing his studies in Los Angeles. Giles knew that he was also an associate of Angel’s.

“Please fill me in.” Giles said.

“The statue inside that house is not the Statue of Aradia. It’s the Statue of Valios.”

“Are you positive?” Giles asked, horrified beyond measure. The Statue of Valios could be used to open the Hellmouth.

Cordelia nodded slowly, a pinched expression on her face. “Nothing is as he claims. That vampire is no longer Angel. His soul is gone and he is now the demon, Angelus.” Cordelia’s voice shook slightly as she continued. “He wants the Hellmouth open. He wants to unleash hell on earth.”

She lifted the large bag she carried and Giles watched as she pulled a long sword out.

“This is the Sword of Gemina. It is used to split positive and negative forces. Wesley assures me that in this your Slayer can stop the Hellmouth from opening by shattering the Statue Of Valios with this sword.” Cordelia informed him.

Giles reached for the sword with one hand. It was very heavy and ornate, the gold hilt set with rare gems. He had heard of it but never had the good fortune to see it. He wondered how Wesley had come into possession of such a rare artifact.

Cordelia threw her head back, a determined expression on her beautiful face.

“I have one request.”

Reaching into her pocket, she withdrew a small glowing ball and held it out to Giles.

“An Orb of Thesulah?”

“While your Slayer is destroying Valios, I want YOU to restore Angels soul to him. You’re a powerful force. I know you can do it.” She choked back a sob. “If you could please just try…”

“I really don’t think…”

“She was Angel’s girlfriend, Dad.” Dawn said, quietly nudging his arm.

Cordelia held out the Orb once again, a look of naked longing on her face.

Rupert took it in his hand.

“If you could just try.....” Cordelia lowered her head. She knew her love was gone, but if there was even the smallest chance, she had to try.

Dawn threw herself at him once more. “Dad, please be careful. I can’t lose you or Will. You’re the only family I have left.”

Family…

The word hit Giles hard.

If Dawnie knew what was inside. Spike. Lizzie. William. Red. All were his children by blood or by bond. They were his family. A family he swore to protect with his life.

He knew what he had to do.

He would confront his undead son, try to find a way to help Lizzie, protect his only living son, and make sure his daughter was kept safe.

Rupert would take care of his family.

He smiled down at Dawn. “I promise you I will come back.”

A tear trickled down Dawn’s cheek.

“You did good Dawnie.” Rupert praised her.

“You’re not mad at me for disobeying you to come here?” Dawn asked.

“My darling girl, you risked yourself to protect what is yours. You took care of your family. Your mother would be very proud.”

He looked at Dawn with pride.

His daughter...

He kissed Dawnie on the head and looked back at Cordelia.

“Take care of my daughter, please?” he begged.

Cordelia wrapped her arm around Dawn as they watched Rupert walk determinedly into the mansion, the Sword of Gemina clutched tight in his fist.

The main hallway seemed endless as they fought their way down its length. Spike’s minions were no match for the lethal combination of William and Angel.

They moved inexorably towards the main room of the mansion, hearing the murmur of voices inside.

Angel motioned to William to take the right while he moved to the left. As they entered William saw Spike, Dalton, Willow and Lizzie standing in a loosely grouped circle.

Spike wasted no time in launching himself at his brother. The fought viciously, so involved in their deadly dance that neither of them noticing Angel moving closer to Buffy.

“GENTLEMEN!”

In mid-scuffle they stopped, Spike sensing danger the second Angel laid his hands on his mate. He jumped off of his brother and took a step towards Buffy then froze as Angel pull out a stake. With one arm around her neck to subdue her struggles, he aimed the stake at her heart.

“BUFFY!!!!” Spike screamed, his demon emerging to protect its mate.

Angel’s face shifted into his demon visage. “Kindly step away Spike.” he sneered.

Spike stopped immediately, knowing that Angel would not hesitate to shove the stake into his Love’s chest.

William felt impotent rage swell within him. Their agreement was that Lizzie was not to be harmed in any way.

“What the HELL are you doing?”

“Is everything ready Dalton? Angel asked, calling the smaller man to his side.

Dalton slithered forth and reached into Angels pocket. Drawing out a gun he leveled it at Williams head.

“Everything is in place, Master.” He said, tossing a smug grin at Spike.

“I’d like to thank you for doing all my dirty work. I mean, how else was I going to haul this hunk of rock here, find a witch powerful enough to cast the spell, AND have that last essential component needed to open the Hellmouth?” Angelus laughed. “What did the spell say? Blood. Powerful blood with both human and inhuman qualities. A bit of a paradox if you aren’t a Slayer turned Vampire.”

“You’re daft bastard! What the hell are you jabbering about?” Spike raged. His eyes never left his princess as she trembled with fear in Angelus’ tight grip.

“You, Spike. Your blood. Slayer and vampire. Human and inhuman. It’s your blood will open the portal.” Angelus explained, laughing evilly. “I do wish you could see the expression on both of your faces. The Slayer and The Great Master; had by little ole me.”

He leered down at Buffy.

“And neither one of them will touch me because of you, little one. I wonder what makes you so special? Too bad I can’t find out right here and now.” Angelus said, taking in her scent.

Buffy let out a whimper.

Both William and Spike took a step forward, a vicious warning growl rumbling from Spikes throat.

Buffy’s tears spilled down her cheeks as she reached for Spike. “Daddy?”

Angelus pressed the stake harder against her chest as Spike moved closer. A dot of blood appeared under the tip of the stake.

“Don’t move, Princess. Daddy will get you out of this.” Spike said softly, trying to soothe her.

Angelus pointed at the statue.

“Now if you would be so kind?”

Spike walked to the statue and stood before it with his hands fisted at his sides.

“You know, it’s not all about the apocalypse, Spike. It’s also about revenge.” Angelus sneered.

“Step on your toes mate?” Spike smirked

“I just want to watch your face when you watch me take you mate away from you the same way you took mine.” Angelus spat.

Spike thought for a moment.

Mate...

He took looked at the man in front of him a note of familiarity hit his senses. This man was of his vampiric line.

His Mate...

“Darla…” He whispered.

“What a bad boy you are, staking our Sire like that. I was mated to her just like you are to this pretty one. You should have known there would be consequences to your actions, boy! NOW GO! I can‘t wait to see how the world ends.” Angelus roared.

Spike took another step toward the statue, then abruptly changed course. In a flash he was on top of Angelus and Buffy fell away to the side; curling herself into a ball.

William was torn, not knowing who to go to first. Buffy or Willow. Spike and Angelus had all but forgotten him. Now was his chance to grab the two girls and make a run for it. He started towards Willow, knowing that he might need her help to subdue Buffy into leaving Spike here.

But he had forgotten about Dalton Avery.

Without hesitation, Dalton raised the gun and shot William. The bullet entered his shoulder, slamming him into the wall.

“WILL!” Willow screamed as her friend slumped to the floor, grimacing in pain.

Dalton turned and leveled the weapon at her head.

“Not very effective against vampires but works so well on humans. Even supernatural humans like Slayers.” He turned the gun back to William once he was certain he had Willows undivided attention. “Start the spell, young witch, or watch your friend die.”

“If I do your stupid spell we all die anyways.” Willow challenged

Dalton squeezed off another round, this time grazing Williams thigh.

“So true, but MY way is much slower and infinitely more painful for your young Slayer.

Do the spell. NOW!” the vampire flunky yelled.

Willow started chanting, crying as she did so.

A red light started to glow from the statue.

The door near Spike and Angel burst open. Anya, Oz and Xander ran in.

Xander and Oz quickly took down Dalton, pinning the enraged vamp beneath them.

“WILLOW! STOP!” Oz screamed.

It was too late.

The spell was finished....

The earth began to rumble underneath them.

“Sir, the blood! The blood and the portal will open!” Dalton screamed at Angelus.

Angelus and Spike continue to fight.

Rupert crashed into the room with the sword.

“WILLIAM!” He cried out, running toward his youngest son. Gathering him up in his arms, he fought the urge to hold on to him. If William didn’t act fast the world as they knew it would end this night.

“The sword! You must strike the statue with the sword!” Rupert yelled, helping Will to stand and handing him the weapon.

Groaning with pain, William forced himself to walk towards the statue.

Angelus kicked Spike in the gut freeing himself long enough to grab William and land him a vicious blow to the chest. William landed on his back, gasping for breath. Straddling him, Angelus quickly shifted into his demon visage and plunged his fangs towards Williams neck.

Rupert threw himself on top of Angelus but was knocked away without effort. Rupert fell heavily, the Orb spilling out of his pocket.

Angel grinned was feral as he began to descend on William’s throat again. He had barely nicked the skin when he was hit broadside by an extremely pissed off Spike.

Buffy, who had until this point been rocking back and forth in the corner, saw the orange ball rolling toward her...