Khai awoke to the sounds of muted cries, and looked over at where Spike was sleeping. He was flopping around on the bed, his body twisting in agony. "Buffy NO," he screamed, shooting upright as he opened his eyes. He blinked, disoriented, and noticed Khai looking at him.

"Sorry, mate" Spike said. "Didn't mean to wake you."

"There is no need to apologize for that which you cannot control."

"Still," Spike said. "It'll be better when we find a new place. Then the only screams you'll have to hear will be coming from your own bedroom," Spike teased, wriggling his eyebrow at Khai, knowing if the demon could blush he would be beat red.

Khai looked away in embarrassment, a goofy grin spreading across his features. "I don't know what you could be referring to," Khai attempted lamely.

"Right," Spike said. "You mean you didn't notice her - the gorgeous redhead with the killer body and the sweetest smile that ever was? Ringing any bells?"

"Oh, her," Khai said, attempting to sound casual but failing miserably. "Am I that obvious?" he asked.

"Yes," Spike said bluntly. "At least to me, and you know there's sod all chance Maggie didn't pick up on it. Pretty sure Buffy knows too, since I spotted her and Red whispering and looking at you the other night. I think you're in for it mate."

"But, I thought Willow preferred women," Khai said.

"She preferred one woman, no doubt about that," Spike confirmed. "Before Tara, she was in love with a werewolf, a male werewolf that is - Oz. Red never struck me as the outside type. I think it's what's on the inside that gets her blood pumping." Spike saw the hope in his brother's eyes. "Whoa. You've got it bad, mate."

"Look who's talking," Khai shot back.

"Ya," Spike said ruefully, shaking his head. "That I do - and it's going so well, too!" he finished sarcastically.

"How are you feeling?" Khai asked with concern.

"I'm glad yesterday is behind me. Now that they know, we can get on with things," Spike said with conviction.

"And Buffy?"

"Ah - Buffy," Spike said thoughtfully. "Can't really say, mate. She's unpredictable. I know yesterday threw her. I guess we'll just have to wait," he was interrupted by his phone ringing.

"'Lo," he answered. " What is it Rupert … we'll be right there," he said into the phone and hung up. "Time to rock and roll, mate," he said to his brother. "The hell mouth is calling."

Everyone was already there when Spike and Khai got to the Magic Box. Giles motioned for them to sit down.

"As I was saying," the Watcher continued. "I received a call from the Council, saying trouble is heading our way. From what they were able to determine, a demon named Araknal is going to attempt to open the hell mouth under the old high school. Several of his minions have already arrived in this dimension through various portals throughout the world. Apparently, they are making their way to Sunnydale as we speak. Araknal is bound in his dimension, unless the hell mouth here can be opened. If they are successful, and Araknal rises, the human casualties will be immeasurable."

"So we stop him," Buffy said with determination.

"Why did he send his minions to this dimension?" Willow asked. "Why not just open it from his side of the fence?"

"That's just it, Willow," Giles responded. "Araknal can only be released if the mouth is opened from this dimension. He was bound from here, he must be released from here."

"So, how does he plan on opening the hell mouth?" Xander asked.

'That is what we are trying to determine. Because his banishment occurred in Sunnydale, there should be some information in the texts I left here."

"Do we know what his minions look like?" Buffy asked.

"Ugly looking things," Magistra said, wrinkling her nose. "Though they walk upright like humans, they look more like spiders. Hairy, four eyes, four arms. If they get you with one of their pincers, you'll be paralyzed, but they each only have one. It's at the end of their top, right arm. Beware of their claws, they're sharp as hell. They also have web-like material that shoots out of their mouths - very sticky, and hard to get out of."

"How do you kill them?" Buffy asked.

"Any way you want, honey. Beheading, stabbing, evisceration, whatever. But they are strong, they don't go down easy," the Master Witch stated.

"Right then," Spike said, nodding at Khai. "Guess we better get started. All right if we use your training room, pet?" he asked Buffy.

"Uh, sure," the Slayer replied, watching as Khai grabbed the large duffle bag he had placed on the floor and followed Spike to the back, shutting the door behind them.

"Meditation ritual," Magistra answered her unspoken question. Buffy shook her head in wonder, finding it difficult to imagine Spike meditating. "I'll sneak you in later," Magistra whispered to her. "It's cool as hell."

"I guess it's time to hit the books," Xander said, rubbing his palms together. "I'll go get the donuts."

Two hours later, Magistra held her finger to her lips in a cautioning gesture to Buffy and Willow, and silently opened the door to the training room. Their jaws dropped at what they saw as they peered into the room. Spike was in front of them, in the midst of performing a succession of back flips, always starting and landing in the same spot. His body moved effortlessly, with a fluidity they'd never seen before. He launched himself from the floor as though there was a trampoline under him, his body stretching high into the air, turning gracefully, and landing lightly, only to launch himself again.

Khai was balanced upside down, one arm at his side, the other stretched down to the back of a chair beneath him, one finger being the only contact with it. He was perfectly balanced, not even swaying slightly, his concentration absolute. Spike stopped his backflips, and walked over to his brother, assuming a similar position on the same chair, until they faced each other upside down, holding themselves up with one finger. Both were barefoot and shirtless, wearing only a pair of black karate pants. Their chests were covered with some kind of ointment, causing their skin to glisten.

"Told you it was cool," Magistra said in a loud voice, causing Spike and Khai to tumble to the ground.

"Damn it, Mags," Spike ground out. "I thought you said you weren't going to do that anymore!" he growled, Khai glaring at her in agreement.

"Ugh. Spike," Magistra said, "Why didn't you tell me the scars were that bad?" She asked. "Great Goddess, it hurts just to look at you," she continued, pointing her hand at Spike and muttering, "Fade!" Suddenly, the scars faded from Spike's body, leaving the smooth, sculpted skin Buffy remembered so well.

"Those would have faded eventually," Spike said petulantly, glad the witch had removed the physical reminders of his trials. He didn't like showing vulnerability, especially in front of Buffy. Magistra looked at her two companions, noticing both their gazes focusing involuntarily on the chests of the men in front of them. Magistra smiled to herself, and responded to Spike's words.

"I know that," she said forcefully, "but we're gonna need you at full strength. Besides," She said winking at him, "you're far sexier this way!" she said, ogling him openly.

"What?" she asked innocently, feeling Buffy's eyes on her. "He wasn't always my brother you know! Come on, ladies - they're HOT!!!" Magistra exclaimed, looking with pride at her brothers. "And don't think for a minute the pheremones flowing off the two of you have escaped my notice! I know where you're coming from!" the witch added, Buffy and Willow blushing at her bluntness.

Spike and Khai unconsciously stood up a little taller, reaching for their towels and rubbing the oil off their upper torsos.

"What is that?" Willow breathed, her and Buffy's eyes glued to their chests once again.

"Meditation oil," Khai responded, slowing the process of wiping off his chest.

"Warms the blood and helps with concentration," Spike added, casually watching Buffy follow the path of the towel.

" Uh huh," Buffy and Willow uttered in unison, their eyes never wavering.

"Enough already!" Magistra burst out. "Geez, pretty soon you'll be turning me on!!!" she said, shaking her head. "You two get cleaned up, we need to update you before you go on patrol. Come on girls," Magistra said, tugging Willow and Buffy behind her. "Wow," she said when they closed the door to the training room behind them. "Do you two need to get laid!!!" she threw over her shoulder as she returned to the rest of the group, leaving Buffy and Willow gaping after her.

"Here's what we know," Giles said as Spike and Khai returned to the table. "I found a prophecy which briefly mentioned Araknal and the Guardian of Light, as well as something about a young woman's heart being the Key. Until I'm able to decipher the prophecy accurately, I suggest we make Dawn's safety our first priority," Giles recommended. "It is possible Araknal will attempt to harness the power of the Key to open the hell mouth."

Everyone turned their attention to Dawn, who smiled bravely at Giles' words. "Here we go again," she quipped, as Spike walked to her chair.

"Never again," Spike growled, electrical energy suddenly flaring outward from his body as he stood protectively behind her, the bluish glow fading as quickly as it had appeared.

"Well that might come in handy," Dawn joked, squeezing his hand. The Scoobies stared at Spike in silence, unnerved by the sudden light display. Buffy's expression was unreadable.

"I recommend we make Buffy's house a makeshift headquarters,' Giles continued. "Buffy and Dawn in one room, Willow and Magistra in another, Spike and Khai in the third. I'll take the couch. Xander and Anya, at this point I don't think it's necessary for you to stay there as well, but you're welcome to throw a bed in the
basement. The more layers of protection we have around Dawn, the better. I suggest we gather what we need and meet at the house in an hour. Xander, if you'll accompany me to the hotel, we can collect my and Magistra's things. Maggie, I think you should accompany the girls home. Okay, we'll see you all in an hour," Giles finished, everyone jumping into action.

SIXTEEN

The group gathered in the living room an hour later. Dawn and Magistra had moved their things in with Buffy and Willow respectively. It was decided Giles would stay in Dawn's room, Spike and Khai preferring to stay on the main floor as the first line of defense. They found a makeshift cot and a queen-sized air mattress in the basement. The cot was set up for Khai, positioned near the couch where Spike would be sleeping. Though Anya and Xander decided to continue staying at their apartment, they inflated the queen-sized air mattress just in case.

"I suggest we patrol in groups from this point on," Giles said when everyone had settled. "I will stay with Dawn during patrols, as I think it important we utilize Magistra's abilities to their utmost. She and Willow will perform protection spells on the house, so that any threat will be dispatched to another dimension as soon as the thresh hold is breached.

"That includes attempting to come in through a window," Magistra added. The group looked at her with admiration. "I know!" she squealed, clapping her hands. "How kick ass is that spell, I ask you!"
Laughter tittered through the room briefly.

"Magistra and Willow will be notified telepathically should the spell be invalidated or challenged in any way," Giles continued.

"Right then," Spike spoke up. "Khai, let's whip up something for everyone to eat while Willow and Maggie make with the mojo. Then, we patrol."

A short while later Buffy went to set the dining room table, only to find Spike completing the task.

"Need any help," she asked out of politeness.

"I've got things under control, pet," He said, setting down the last fork.

"Ya," Buffy said. "I noticed," she said sarcastically as she swept past him, heading outside.

"What the bloody hell was that supposed to mean?" Spike asked angrily, walking up to her as she stood at the edge of the porch, arms crossed in front of her. "How did I piss you off this time?"

"You've got some nerve, Spike," Buffy spit out between clenched teeth. "You come back here after wanting nothing to do with us for three months, tell us you're now some big wig with the Light, and start throwing out orders like you own the place. Since when do I take orders from you?"

"Is that what this is about?" Spike asked incredulously. "A bloody pissing match?"

"No, Spike," Buffy retorted. "It's been quiet around here for months, then you reappear and suddenly something tries opening the hell mouth again? Am I really just supposed to believe that's a coincidence? What are you up to Spike?"

Spike stared at Buffy, pain wrapping around the very core of his being. Buffy saw the hurt in his eyes and averted her gaze, lowering her head. "I have to know," she said determinedly.

Spike was silent for several moments, waging an internal war between seething anger and mind-numbing anguish. Finally he began to speak in a low voice, his tone eerily calm.

"I could say I don't blame you for thinking I have something to do with this, but I do. I blame you for avoiding what you know to be the truth. You have never been stupid, Buffy. You've been stubborn, rash, pigheaded, and an overall pain in my arse since the day I met you. You have also been brave, resilient, creative, and the strongest woman I have ever known. But you have never been stupid - until tonight." Spike's voice began to rise in frustration.

"You know what the truth is, just as you knew the truth about Khai when you went inside yourself to seek it. But instead of doing that with me, you decide I'm trying to pull one over on you. How often has that worked for me before? You are brimming over with questions, but all you can do is accuse. I told you I am different. I told you the way I became different. But you don't even have the guts to find out how I'm different, - and all it would take is asking yourself a question. Instead, you throw your distrust of me in my face. Well I've got a newsflash for you, luv. You've trusted me with your family, with your friends, with YOUR BLOODY LIFE!!! " He roared at her. "The only thing you've never trusted me with is your heart - and that's because you won't even trust yourself with it. We're on the same side now pet, whether you want to believe that or not. I don't want to fight with you - I want to fight by your side. I'm sorry if you're not sure you can do that, but you better get over it quick. I don't think I can win this without you, but it doesn't mean I'm not gonna try. You let me know what you decide," he said turning to reenter the house. He stopped short as he saw the audience that had gathered there. "Bloody hell," he muttered, sweeping past the group who had gathered in the entryway. Buffy looked up at his exclamation, blanching that there were witnesses to her humiliation. Everyone quickly dispersed, finding interest in anything at hand.

"Well that was embarrassing," Magistra said, echoing Buffy's thoughts. Buffy gave a slight nod in agreement.

"He was right," Buffy whispered softly. "I'm never afraid of anything, but I'm afraid of the changes in him. I don't know how things are supposed to be now, how I'm supposed to be. I've only known one Spike - I don't have a clue who he is anymore, let alone who to be around him. I'm not even sure I'm needed anymore."

"Oh, Buffy," Magistra said, smiling brightly into Buffy's anxious face. "You've known this Spike far longer than you want to admit, - the beginnings of him at any rate. And I don't think it's the changes in him that you're afraid of, honey. I think it's the changes you feel within yourself, changes in the way you might be feeling about him. You've denied yourself from seeing him as anything but a beast, even when you knew it wasn't that simple. Now you don't have any excuses left - and that's damn scary. As for who you're
supposed to be around him - well DUH - you're supposed to be Buffy. He needs you. They need you. Hell I need you and I just met you!!!" the witch joked. "You are far more a part of things than you realize, my dear. Stop hindering yourself with doubt - trust in your heart - it's what's gotten you this far. Now I'm going to go stuff my face before I vomit over the amount of sap that's some out of my mouth in the last five minutes," Magistra said, leaving Buffy to her thoughts.

"You should eat something, luv. We need your strength," Spike said, stepping out onto the porch.

"Spike," Buffy said, her voice trembling with emotion. "I'm so sorry. Those things I said, I'm … sorry. I know you're right, and I'm trying - I just … I'll get there. Be patient with me?" she asked, reaching out and grabbing his hand.

"Always, luv," he said, looking down at her tiny hand enclosed in his. "Come on then," he said a few moments later. "Let's get you fed and go kick some demon arse." He tugged on her hand, pulling her into the house behind him. As they entered the dining room, Buffy gave his hand a quick squeeze, and went to make herself a plate. For the first time since returning to Sunnydale, Spike felt as though he'd come home.

SEVENTEEN

For the second time that day, the new and improved Scoobies gathered in the living room. They had just raided Buffy's armory, each choosing weapons they were comfortable with. Xander chose a double-headed axe, while Anya chose a short-staffed mace covered with sharp, metal spikes. Khai preferred a set of matching short swords, both resting comfortably in the leather scabbards tied around his waist. Willow and Magistra had also stocked up, Maggie explaining to Willow she had been right in arming herself with more than just magic when she had attacked Glory, already aware of the lessons they had spent reviewing why the minor witch had been wrong in such a decision. As it turned out, they armed themselves with the very daggers Willow had launched at the goddess during her ill-fated attack. "Never assume you have one over on the enemy, even when you're convinced you do," she had cautioned them all. "Only an idiot doesn't plan for the unexpected. That's one of the first things you learn from studying heroes like the Slayer here," Maggie emphasized, winking at Buffy. Spike and Buffy chose matching broadswords, not realizing what the other had chosen until they faced one another. "Oh yeah," Magistra couldn't resist teasing, "You two are soooooo different."

Thus armed, they gathered before Giles to get the latest update about their spidery foe.

"There isn't much more to report, unfortunately," Giles admitted. " Between researching the volumes here, and conferring with the Council, the only thing of note is to make you aware of a possible thralling capability amongst Araknal's strongest minions - his 'captains' if you will. It is possible you will be bombarded with mind-numbing fear in an attempt to incapacitate you, when you cross paths with on of the captains. Just know it is a psychological illusion that you can choose to overcome. Aside from this, the only other information of note is that the minions travel in groups of five, each lead by a captain. Be careful," he cautioned. "We'll review everything upon your return. Everyone please - try to remember everything that could be of use - regardless of whether your abilities are enhanced or not. Every bit of knowledge is one more way to protect Dawn. Be careful," Giles encouraged before sending them on their way.

The group started out in silence, everyone caught up in the intensity of anticipation.

"Okay - STOP!!!" Magistra shouted, everyone stopping in place, reminiscent of the Statue game they had played in childhood.

"Goddess knows I can't keep my mouth shut to save my life, which is pretty lucky considering I can only save yours by opening it," she explained. "Here's the scoop, dearies. Though some of you have worked together for years, this is the first time everyone present has had to come together as a force. Araknal has had the advantage of planning his assault well before sending his minions forth. We've had less than a day. Now I'm the first to admit that I can kick ass all over the place, but I'm not so stupid as to think we can fight him without being a cohesive group. So here's what I wanna do. The strongest challenge to us working as one force rested with Buffy and Spike. We all witnessed how that conflict was aired. I'm telling you now that conflict has been resolved - at least as far as we're concerned. Now it's been awhile since I've been on the front line - and I can't tell you how psyched I am to be there again in the company of the Scooby gang. But I will not do this without us being of one mind. So, what I wanna do is cast a bonding spell, the only benefit being our recognition of our common goal - and our unity because of that goal. If anyone isn't game, speak up now - there's nothing wrong with being uncomfortable with magic - just ask Spike. Any objections? Okay. Wait for it."

The group stood still, waiting for the spell to be cast. ""Kay - all done now! Wow, you really haven't been exposed to magic much, have you? Well Willow, that certainly speaks in your favor. As for the rest of you, let me explain what just happened. I pulled together our common goals, and made everyone aware of them, There really was no spell cast, meaning no order was technically altered. The facts were already there - I just removed what prevented everyone from bonding over them. Because I am a Master Witch of the Light, I have to let you know I wouldn't have performed even this simplistic of a spell, if we weren't facing what we are. I prefer for time to take it's toll, but my primary devotion is to maintain the balance. Because that balance is threatened, you will see me do things I would NEVER do, if things were different. Right now we are all warriors, on the same level of the playing field. I would die for each of you. I stand before you in humility because I thought the rest of you hadn't realized you would do the same. It turns out I was the only one who didn't know better. The results of my spell show that you have always been willing to die for each other, and now you are willing to die for my brother Khai and I. I know I speak for both of us when I say we are humbled before your humanity. I do not mention Spike in conjunction with us because you protected him with your lives long before we entered the picture, and you do so again without a second thought. Once again, I can only say I am filled with pride at being judged worthy to stand by your sides in battle. And now that I've completely blown my bitch rating, let's get to it," Magistra finished.

Though no one said a word, they were all moved by what Magistra had summarized. They moved forward, each energized by their renewed sense of purpose. The patrolling went on, a few fledging vampires being the only challenges they met along the way.

As they were returning to the house, Spike stopped suddenly, hearing Magistra's warning in his mind as Buffy responded to her own sense of evil. Khai flared into demon face as Spike held up a hand, telling the others to stop. Spike and Khai sniffed the air, as Buffy withdrew into herself, seeking the danger she sensed. Magistra already had Willow poised to respond to any challenge offered. Khai suddenly emitted a battle cry, launching himself in a series of flips toward a copse of trees, a blood-curdling scream announcing that one of his swords had struck home. Spike and Buffy immediately followed, their own swords at the ready.

Suddenly, the group found their senses assailed by terror, their bodies paralyzed with fear. Remembering Giles' words prior to leaving the house, they all battled their inner demons. Xander whipped around, his battle-axe extended, decapitating the demon poised to attack him as Anya struck its chest with her mace. They all looked for the remaining three, knowing the captain was among them. Suddenly, Spike launched himself fifteen feet in the air, to a branch located directly above Buffy's head. Leaves and branches obscured the view as a bluish-white glow shot forward, resulting in cries of agony from a being that never showed itself. Buffy and Khai aligned back to back, only to witness two minions charging Willow and Magistra and then bursting into flames. The group waited, poised for any additional attack.

"Okay, UGH!!! AND YUK!!! And why don't demons ever enslave attractive minions?" Anya voiced bluntly.

"Heebies definitely in residence, Jeebies quickly following," Willow agreed.

"Bllllaaaggghhh!" Buffy shivered. "Gotta say - not a big fan!"

"Ladies," Xander comforted. "never fear - us men are here!" he stated bravely, turning to swagger away with Spike and Khai.

"So are you two as wigged out by those things as I am?' Xander asked as soon as they were outside of hearing range.

"Oh yes," Khai responded.

"Right there with you, mate," Spike reiterated as the three attempted to exude nonchalance, aware their companions were close on their heels.

"Ladies," Magistra whispered so only her immediate companions could hear, " We are going to make them pay. When I say the word, just follow my lead," she directed, the others nodding their heads in agreement as they waved innocently at the men who turned to check on them. "Oh they are so going down," Buffy, Willow and Anya said, stifling their giggles as they realized they had spoken at the same time.

EIGHTEEN

The group updated Giles on their first encounter with the Rachni, and began to assist him with the research. Moments later, Magistra gasped in horror, looking up at the others. "Ohmigoddess," she exclaimed. "Girls - I think you'd better get yourselves to the bathroom upstairs - I need to whip up a poultice. Hopefully, we'll catch it in time."

"What is it?" Giles asked with concern, as Buffy, Willow and Anya looked at Magistra in alarm.

"This passage roughly translates as 'revulsion will lead to the vein of Anar, the physical dealer of death shall be infested.' Basically it means those who are repulsed by the Rachni and deal them a death blow will be infested with the vein of Anar," the witch explained.

"Good God!" Giles gulped, his eyes widening in horror.

"What's the vein of Anar?" Xander asked with concern.

"It's a vein of insects similar to ticks. The burrow into your skin and reproduce exponentially. If allowed to go unheeded, they will cause the area of infestation to expand to such a degree it will eventually explode," Magistra said. "BOOM!" she reiterated, causing the Scoobies to jump in alarm.

"What area do they infest?" Willow asked with wide eyes.

"In the breasts for women, and as for men …" Magistra merely lowered her eyes and looked pointedly at the area between Spike's hips. Khai, Spike and Xander froze, terror gripping their faces.

"Hey! Wait a minute," Willow said in excitement. "We don't have to worry. Only the guys killed those things - well except for the spell Magistra and I cast - but we didn't come in physical contact with them. And since the guys weren't grossed out by them like we were, there's nothing to worry about."

"Thank God!" Buffy and Anya shrieked, noticeably relieved.

"I believe you're right, Willow," Giles said, smiling.

"Well that's a big relief!" Maggie said. "Still, you girls need to get rid of the gross-out factor if you're going to fight them.

The women went back to researching, heads bent over the books. Spike, Khai and Xander looked at each other in panic, each beginning to feel their skin crawl.

"Um, I'm gonna go check that air mattress - make sure it doesn't have a leak," Xander said, almost running to the basement door.

"I'll help you - in case you need to patch it, " Spike threw out, already within inches of Xander, Khai following behind his brother, unable to speak at all.

The girls covered their mouths with their hands, trying to muffle the laughter that erupted as soon as they heard the door to the basement close. Magistra put her finger to her lips, signaling for them to follow as she quietly crept over to the door and opened it soundlessly. The other three gathered around her, seeing Spike, Khai and Xander with their backs to them at the bottom of the stairs as though gathered before urinals, the surrounding area lit by the single bulb burning above them.

"I don't see anything yet - how bout you guys?" Xander asked.

"Nope, nothing," Spike said as Khai shook his head.

"Oh my God, what are we gonna do. I mean - she said Boom - she meant Boom - I don't wanna go Boom!" Xander ranted, nearing hysteria.

"DON'T WORRY MEN - WE'LL PROTECT YOU!!!" The women could hold it in no longer, their laughter only increasing as the men rushed to zip their pants, Xander falling off balance into the other two, knocking them all to the ground. Buffy and Willow clutched their stomachs, Anya so overcome no sound was coming from her. Magistra banged her hand repeatedly against the wall as she bellowed her humor.

The men glared at their tormentors, knowing any semblance of dignity had disappeared long before they had entered the basement. Finally, they all made their way back to the living room, Giles chuckling appreciatively at the ladies' joke.

" Et tu, Rupert?" Spike asked, cocking an eyebrow in his direction.

"Have you ever tried saying no to her?" Giles asked, indicating Magistra with his thumb. "Besides - you can't have thought such a ridiculous statement would go unchallenged. I mean - look at whom you said it to. Need I say more?" he asked defensively.

"Lesson learned," Spike acknowledged, "never to be repeated." He bowed chivalrously to each woman in apology, ending in front of Buffy. "Are you ever going to stop freaking me out," she said lightly, shaking her head at his courtly manners.

"What - and have you lose interest in me? Never gonna happen pet," he said approaching her with his usual swagger. Spike stopped beside her, their bodies nearly touching. "Believe me," he said lowly, a sexy timbre entering his tone as he whispered directly into her ear. "I'll freak you out in ways you've never imagined." Spike stepped back, his eyes trained on Buffy's face.

Buffy had flushed hotly the moment Spike stopped next to her, keenly aware of the heat that seemed to flow between them the moment they were within touching distance. His deep voice sent shivers down her spine, his words evoking memories of exquisite pleasure. Buffy's eyes had closed of their own volition, images of their passion flashing behind her eyes. She started as she felt him move away, feeling as though she'd been doused with cold water. Her eyes flew open, only for her breath to leave her body when she saw the naked desire reflected in his eyes. Buffy stared at him, unable to move, frozen by the need in his eyes, knowing it was mirrored in her own.

"Nope, no sparks between you two," Magistra observed casually as she walked by them on her way to the stairs. "Night everyone, see you tomorrow!" She winked at Spike as she as made her way upstairs.

Spike smiled ruefully at Buffy, the spell between them temporarily broken. The rest of the group was breaking up for the evening, Xander and Anya saying goodnight as they headed home. Giles yawned and waved tiredly as he trudged up the stairs.

"Well, goodnight," Buffy said softly, knowing there was a cold shower in her not-so-distant future.

"Goodnight luv," Spike replied. "Sweet dreams," he said, winking at her.

"Bastard," she muttered, a broad grin on her face as she turned and headed to her room.

NINETEEN

"I was looking for you," Willow said to Khai as she joined him on the back porch. "Is everything okay?" she asked with concern.

"Very much so, Willow," Khai replied with a bright smile.

"Oh," she said, somewhat surprised. "Well good … that's - good. I mean, it's good to be good. I … I like good, and you … you are good, so everything's good - and I am making no sense whatsoever am I?" the witch asked, seeing the bemusement in Khai's expression. "I guess I just didn't expect to hear you say that. The rest of us are usually wrapped up in the dire when we come out here. I thought maybe something was wrong."

"I am happier than I have ever been," Khai stated simply.

"So not expecting to hear that either," Willow observed, looking at Khai in wonder. "What's going on up there?" she asked, lightly tapping his head, noticing the silky feel of his hair beneath her fingers.

"I am amazed at how much my life has changed in the last three months, and I am humbled with gratitude."

"Khai," Willow said cautiously. "Believe me, I love the whole 'formal speech with a sexy accent' thing you've got going on, but, could you maybe loosen up with the lingo a bit. I mean, just talk to me. You don't have to be so proper -it's just me. Willow. Hi!" she said, raising her hand in emphasis.

"I will try," Khai agreed with a smile. "Spike has encouraged me to do so as well. He said listening to me sometimes makes him feel like he's in church, and I don't have to tell you how he feels about that!" he said with a laugh.

"As Spike indicated, the members of my clan possess mystical powers. The acceptance of these gifts is steeped in tradition, each entailing its own series of requirements. Needless to say, this adds up to a lot of formal ceremonies. When you have participated in as many as I have, I guess the speech stays with you," he explained.

"What are your gifts?" Willow asked.

"I am a Healer and a Guide to the Spirit. I teach the ways of self-awareness and meditation. You could say I ease one's aches and pains, both inside and out."

"So, you were teaching Spike how to meditate when you were in the training room," Willow observed.

"In a way," Khai agreed. "Spike's case is more complicated than that. Normally, my meditation students are just reaching maturity, and they begin training with me in preparation for receiving their gifts. Once their
Giving ceremony is completed, I continue to tutor them in mastering the gifts they received. Because Spike was an outsider, he received no preparation. One, because it was very possible he wouldn't survive, and two, because there's no way to really prepare someone to go through what he did. When he did survive, the knowledge of our ways was placed in his mind, but he still needs to be taught how to master what he's been given. Spike has received amazing powers, most of which he hasn't even discovered yet. I am helping him adjust to that. To possess such power without learning how to control it would make him extremely vulnerable to the Dark. Something I believe you can relate to," he finished gently. Willow merely nodded, shame clouding her features.

"I do not mean to shame you, Willow. I only mean to say I understand what happened. Learning to control such forces is not easy, even for those who receive assistance from someone like myself. For you to have practiced magic for so long before succumbing to the Dark merely testifies to the strength of your spirit," he said, lifting her chin to look in her eyes. "I think you're amazing," he said sincerely, stroking a finger along her cheek before releasing her. Willow flushed with pleasure at his words.

"You know, Magistra's tutoring began a week after her birth. Of course, everyone knew she would be a powerful force, given the fact she started speaking in sentences when she was three days old," Khai said wryly.

"What?" Willow exclaimed. "Three days old?" Khai laughed at the wonderment on Willow's face.

"Yes," he continued. "Magistra's human mother was a very powerful witch in her own right. Our father holds the level of Master in our clan. When she was born, her acceleration was unbelieveable. Within months she was far beyond the abilities of all her tutors. It was then that our father knew what she was destined to be. You see, though part demon by birth, she never possessed the more violent aspects of our nature. She can get angry - which you never want to see by the way - but she never, um, what do you call it - 'vamps' out? Magistra has never possessed the face of the beast. But there she was, a pretty little girl surrounded by demons who avoided her in fear."

"How sad," Willow said, sympathy filling her eyes. Khai smiled at her understanding.

"Yes it was," he agreed in a low voice, pleased at Willow's empathy for his sister. "Magistra was basically isolated from birth, through no fault of her own. She was just a little girl who wanted to laugh and play like everyone else. Instead, she was saddled with a legacy few adults could have handled, let alone a young

child. But, she had no choice. Our father sent her to her mother's teacher, the only living witch who possessed more ability than Magistra. My sister came fully into her power and her role as a Master Witch of the Light when she was just ten years old.

"My goddess," Willow whispered in amazement, unable to find any other words to express her thoughts at such a responsibility falling on the shoulders of one so young. "How old were you when all of this happened?" she asked.

"The same age as Magistra," he replied, seeing Willow's confusion. "We were born on the same day to two different mothers - the same day another mother gave birth in London to a son she named William," he finished, watching Willow's eyes widen as realization struck.

"Oh now that's just too freaky!" she blurted with a laugh. "Wow," she said reflectively, shaking her head, "I guess some things were just meant to be." Willow reached over and clasped his hand, looking up into his eyes.

"Absolutely," Khai whispered hoarsely, leaning in and capturing her lips with his own. Willow sighed as his cool lips touched hers, deepening the kiss as she wrapped her arms around his neck, pulling his mouth more firmly against her own. Khai eventually released her lips, allowing her to breath. "So," he teased, wrapping his hands around her waist and pulling her close, "you think my accent's sexy?"

"Absolutely," she repeated his word from a moment ago as once again their mouths came together.

Buffy smiled as she saw Willow and Khai with their arms wrapped around each other under the glow of the porch light. She couldn't sleep. Rather than disturb Dawn with useless tossing and turning, she had made her way to the kitchen, careful not to disturb Spike's slumber. He had been facing the back of the couch, his arms in front of him as though huddled in protection. She hadn't been able to see his expression.

Buffy had heard the lull of voices as she contemplated the contents of the refrigerator, causing her to look out the window and see the couple embracing. She was happy for her friend, glad at least one of them could make a positive decision about their love lives. Buffy's thoughts were interrupted by a low moan coming from the living room. As she went to investigate, she heard the word 'no' being chanted over and over. When she entered the living room, she saw Spike rocking back and forth in a prone position, his face a mask of agony as he continued chanting. Buffy sat on the edge of the couch, concerned. She placed a hand on his cheek, softly murmuring words of comfort. Seeing him calm at her touch, Buffy found herself wondering once again what he had become. Remembering his challenge from earlier, Buffy began taking deep cleansing breaths, going deeper and deeper into herself. After achieving a deep state of meditation, she reached out with her Slayer senses, focusing them on the demon lying beside her. A blinding light flashed in her mind as she suddenly found herself standing next to Spike, flames surrounding them.

Spike stood watching helplessly, the scene before him causing far more pain than the fire that was greedily consuming his skin. Buffy laid on her back before him, beaten and broken, tears streaming down her face as she pleaded for the beast in front of her to stop. Spike watched as the demon roared at her, fury suffusing

it's face as it raped her repeatedly, impervious to her cries of pain, hitting her over and over as he tore into her. Buffy screamed one last time as the beast sunk his fangs into her neck, reaching his orgasm at the moment of her death. Spike watched as the demon's human face emerged, finding himself staring into his own eyes. He screamed silently as he turned his head away, only to see Buffy standing in the flames beside him, horror on her face as she saw who the rapist was. "NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!!!" Spike screamed as he bolted upright, blinking as his eyes recognized Buffy's living room. He saw Buffy sitting next to him, wearing the same expression as in his dream. He jumped up in shock, looking around for the fire.

Spike's eyes widened as he realized she had seen his nightmare, had witnessed her own rape and death at his hands. Anguish and shame assailed him as he turned his back to her, covering his face with his hands.

Buffy saw Khai and Willow rush in, having heard Spike's scream from the porch. Buffy held up a hand, stopping them from speaking. She stared at Spike's back, seeing the tremors shooting through his body.

"Were all of them like that?" she asked him softly. Spike didn't respond as he continued to stand with his back to her. "Spike?" she asked, reaching out and tentatively touching his shoulder. Spike jerked at her touch, a muffled sob escaping his throat as he sank to his knees. Buffy followed him, reaching out and wrapping her arms around him from behind, her hands caressing his naked chest in soothing comfort. "I'm so sorry," she whispered, kissing his shoulder.

The last of Spike's control snapped at her gentleness and he turned into her arms with tears streaming down his cheeks. Buffy cradled his head in her lap, her own tears blurring her eyes as she tried to comfort him. Khai and Willow quietly left, allowing Spike to grieve with Buffy privately.

TWENTY

Khai and Willow went into the kitchen, Khai silently opening his arms for Willow to take comfort there. They stood silently holding each other, both of their hearts aching for Spike. Buffy found them like this several minutes later as she entered the kitchen, having helped Spike to the couch, holding his hand until he had fallen back to sleep.

"How often?" Buffy asked Khai, looking him in the eye.

"Every night," Khai replied honestly.

"My God," Buffy whispered in horror. "He goes through that every single night?"

"Yes," Khai confirmed. "It's not always the same nightmare, but he's had them every night since the trials ended."

"And they consider that a gift?" Buffy asked angrily. "That he relive those tortures every night?"

"No," Khai corrected. "The dreams come from Spike himself. It may sound strange, but by reminding himself of the things he went through, his spirit is increasing the distance between himself and the Dark He will not have them forever."

"I was in it," Buffy stated.

"You often are," Khai observed.

"No, I mean I was in it! There - with him… in the fire," She clarified. "I saw what he was torturing himself with. I felt the agony he was feeling. How is that possible? I mean, I was in one of Angel's dreams once, but we were both asleep, and that was more like one of my prophetic dreams. This was … different. I was awake, and then suddenly I was standing next to Spike." Buffy explained entering her meditative state in her attempt to understand the changes that had taken place in Spike.

"I think I know what happened," Khai offered as Buffy looked at him expectantly. "You attempted to touch Spike's essence when it was in torture. Normally, you would have sensed the spirit was troubled and the Slayer in you would have withdrawn. I think because it was Spike, rather than withdrawing, the Slayer in you ran to him, knowing he was in need. Buffy, I think you are far more bonded with Spike than even your subconscious is aware of. I think it goes to the deepest level of the Slayer in you," he finished.

"He could be right, Buffy," Willow said, explaining Khai's background.

"Great," Buffy muttered. "Not only do I have to figure out how I feel about him, but I have to figure out how the Slayer feels about him too? Let her get her own guy. Wait - forget I said that. Talk about making things even more confusing!" she exclaimed, shaking her head. "Okay, tired now. Kicking ass is so much more fun than thinking!" she observed as she said good night. She stopped to check on Spike before heading upstairs, and placed a tender kiss on his forehead, relieved he appeared to be dream free. A small smile appeared on his face after she kissed him as he turned and snuggled deeper into the couch. A smile appeared on her own face as she headed to bed.

Buffy entered the kitchen late the next morning to the sound of Dawn's laughter as Magistra and Willow filled her in on the events of the previous evening.

"I so wish I could have seen their faces when they realized what would go 'Boom'," Dawn giggled. Buffy chuckled as she remembered the scene, pouring herself a cup of coffee.

"It was in no way funny," Xander said as he and Anya came in the back door. "It was heartless, and cruel, and a typical womany thing to do!"

"BOOM!" Magistra roared in warning, causing Xander to clutch his chest in fear.

"Just kidding," he smiled weakly as the women laughed at his expense. "I think I'll go find where the rest of the testosterone in this house is hiding," he said, making his escape.

"Now that you're up, Buffy, Rupert has some things to go over," Magistra said. "There's a plate in the oven for you if you're hungry. We'll meet in the living room in an hour. Me, I feel like going for a walk. Dawn, you want to show me your stomping grounds? Nothing to worry about Chosen One," she answered before Buffy could object. "She'll be with me. Have no fear - the Bitch is here!!!" she laughed as she and Dawn left, Anya deciding to accompany them.

Buffy joined Willow at the table, not missing the smile that seemed permanently fixed on her face. "Could you perk up a bit Wil?" she asked. "I hate seeing you so depressed!"

"I'm sorry," Willow giggled. "I just can't help it! He just … he makes me feel happy," she said lightly.

"I'm glad," Buffy said sincerely. "You deserve it."

"Thanks Buffy," Willow said, squeezing her friend's hand.

"How is he?" Buffy asked.

"I think he's okay," Willow answered, knowing who Buffy was referring to. "He and Khai went to the training room right after he woke up. He didn't say much before they left, he just said good morning to Dawn and they headed for the sewers. They got back a little while ago. They just went to clean up"

"Gosh, with both showers going every day, for this many people, the water bill is going to be enormous," Buffy observed.

"Lucky Giles talked the Council into that big salary for you, ha?" Willow commented.

"Definitely," Buffy nodded, refilling her coffee cup and taking her breakfast out of the oven. Her stomach growled in hunger as the scent of the food reached her nose. "Wow," Buffy said appreciatively. "This has got to be Magistra's handywork!"

"You know it," Willow concurred. "That girl knows food!" Buffy made no response, too busy inhaling the omelet in front of her.

"It's about time you ate something of substance, pet" Spike said as he entered the kitchen. "You're entirely too skinny."

Buffy swallowed the last of her food, wondering how long he'd been watching her stuff her face. "Am not!" she said defensively. Willow slipped out of the kitchen unnoticed and went in search of Khai.

"Are too," he shot back, Buffy responding by sticking her tongue out at him. Spike chuckled at her display of maturity, and reached for her, stopping himself when he realized what he was doing. Buffy ignored this as she stepped over to him and wrapped her arms around him.

"Good morning," she said into his shoulder.

"It is now," he said, holding her close and kissing the top of her head. Buffy took a step back and looked up at him. "I don't want to not touch you anymore. It's too hard. But, I still don't know how I feel about you. I just know that I do feel - strongly - about you. And maybe it doesn't even matter because you changed your mind about - me. Have you? Changed your mind about me?" she asked breathlessly, suddenly afraid to hear his answer.

"Buffy," Spike said, tilting her chin up until she met his gaze. "I am more in love with you than I have ever been," he said in a low voice, conviction in every syllable, his eyes conveying what he felt in his heart.

Buffy breathed a sigh of relief, not realizing she had been holding her breath. She smiled brightly at Spike, clasping her hands around his neck. Spike groaned as he crushed her mouth with his, months of longing pouring into that one kiss. Buffy responded hungrily, loving the feel of his tongue battling with hers, realizing how much she had missed the feel of his cool hard body pressing against her.

"Took you long enough," Magistra said, laughing as the two broke away from each other, Buffy flushing beat red.

"You really need to work on your timing, Mags," Spike growled at his sister, clenching his hands at his sides in frustration.

"From my perspective my timing's been perfect!" she quipped. "Come on, meeting time. And don't think I'm going to let you two 'join us in a few minutes'. I wasn't born yesterday you know" she said, shooing the two out of the kitchen in front of her.

TWENTY -ONE

Spike and Buffy stumbled into the living room, relieved to have the witch finally stop her prodding as she took up two spaces on the couch, leaving only one spot remaining. Trying not to smile at his sister's obvious ploy, Spike sat down next to her, promptly picking Buffy up and setting her on his lap, possessively wrapping his hand around her waist. Buffy leaned against him comfortably, purposely ignoring the surprised looks on the faces of her friends.

Giles was the first to recover, quickly updating the group on what they had learned. 'The Council believes we can expect to see as many as two hundred and fifty Rachni converge on Sunnydale before the attempt to open the hell mouth is made. Unfortunately, their contacts throughout the world had nothing more to add regarding how they plan to open it. Now, that is just an estimate, based on portal activity and the energy trails the Rachni leave as they move."

"Two hundred and fifty," Dawn repeated, her eyes widening in fear.

"Not all at once, Dawn," Giles reassured her. "Some of them are making their way here from as far away as the Middle East and Australia. It is highly unlikely they are moving during the day, as daylight dulls their senses, leaving them basically helpless. Only ten points of entry connect with their dimension in the entire

world, one of which is right here in Sunnydale. From what we were able to determine, only five groups of five could travel through each portal unscathed. Araknal was banished nearly two hundred and fifty years ago. Since there appears to be a correlation between this number, and the number of minions allowed to enter this world, I'm attempting to pinpoint the exact date the binding spell was performed, as I think it likely that will be the day they will attempt to reopen the hell mouth. In the meantime, I suggest we make the most of our time, before the rest are able to complete their journey."

"So, it's safe to assume there are at least twenty in the immediate area, possibly more?" Khai asked.

"Exactly," Giles confirmed. "Given the amount of time that's passed since the portals were activated, we know at least twenty are here, but possibly as many as seventy."

"There's a lot of jump in those numbers, and I don't mean in a good way," Xander said, as the challenge before them suddenly seemed overwhelming.

"I must agree with Xander," Anya said. "I mean, it's possible we could handle twenty, but seventy … how can we possibly defeat so many?"

"The most you will ever have to battle at one time is twenty-five. The Rachni are comprised of ten families, each one hating the other. Every portal was the entry point for a different family. Their only common denominator is in serving Araknal, who in turn uses their hatred of each other to ensure their loyalty to him, knowing they could never let another family have the upper hand. They will never assist another clan in battle, preferring instead to kill each other. They are prevented from doing so by their pledge to Araknal, knowing he will eliminate their entire family if that pledge is broken. Though seventy may be here, only one family will engage you in battle at a time."

"Well that makes me feel better," Willow breathed, Khai squeezing her hand in reassurance.

"They must be in contact with Araknal," Buffy said, looking at Giles.

"Why do you say that?" Giles asked, curious.

"Spike?" Buffy asked in response. "When your infighting minions would leave the roost, how long would they have before they needed to check in with you?" she asked innocently. Comprehension dawned in everyone's eyes as they realized Buffy's point.

"You're right pet," Spike answered. "There's no way he'd let them be away from his influence for long."

"Of course!" Giles said. "Maggie - could you look into the ways they would be able to communicate across dimensions?" he asked, the witch nodding her ascent.

"I think I should contact father," Khai said to Magistra. "If this only occurred two hundred and fifty years ago, maybe he or Master Thom will remember having heard something about it."

"Master Zo is your father?" Spike asked in surprise, looking at his brother and sister questioningly. "Why didn't you tell me?" he queried after they confirmed their sire's identity.

"I think we just did," Maggie said flippantly. "Spike," she said more gently, seeing his hurt at not being told everything about his new family. "You have enough on your plate without throwing mystical royalty in the mix. All you needed to know you were told up front, that you are our brother in every way, and we love you. The rest can wait for less challenging times." Spike smiled gently at her as she leaned over and kissed his cheek. "Ya big softie," she chided, chuckling. "Khai, I think that's a good idea. If this Araknal is as nasty as he sounds, dad's sure to know something. I'll get on the horn with my cohorts in crime and have them send me everything they've got on cross-dimensional communication." Magistra started rummaging in her bag. "Buffy, I'm going to need to use your …"

"Don't worry about the long-distance," Buffy interrupted, believing she knew what Magistra was going to say. "Work related expense."

" … basement," Magistra finished, pulling a smoothly polished horn out of her bag, it's surface glittering with all the colors of the rainbow.

"You … actually use a horn?" Xander asked in wonder.

"Well - YA! The horn of Bashivel acts as a channeling device, allowing me to mentally connect with several witches at the same time. In addition, it separates their responses in an orderly fashion so all their info doesn't hit me at once. Fax machines - PAH! Talk about slow! Well, I better get busy. If possible, try not to interrupt me for the next few hours. I'm going to have a world of information to sort through in my head. Tell dad I said hi!" the witch said as she headed for the basement. Khai went upstairs to concentrate on mentally contacting Master Zo.

"How cool was that thing?" Dawn asked, eyes still glowing from the beauty of the horn.

"Niblet," Spike cautioned as Buffy shifted off his lap onto the couch beside him, grabbing his hand. "Don't even think about it. If you so much as bring that horn anywhere near your ear your head will explode! If you don't believe me, ask those two," he said, pointing at Willow and Giles as the rest of them gasped in alarm. They both nodded, confirming Spike's words. "Stay as far away from her little doodads as possible. You need to realize that even though Mags is one of the kindest people you will ever meet, she has more power in her pinky than the rest of us combined," he stated emphatically.

"It's true," Willow said, telling them what she had learned about Maggie from Khai, including that the three shared the same birthday. They all looked at Spike in awe when he confirmed Willow's story.

"How can she be so well-adjusted?" Buffy asked, thinking of how difficult it had been for her just finding out she was the Slayer.

"It's the Light, luv," Spike replied. "When Khai and I visited Mags and Giles in London on our way back here, she and I had a bonding ceremony of our own. She didn't need my permission to enter my mind, but she asked for it anyway. In exchange, she opened her spirit to me, having to give me the abridged version of course. I don't believe there's a being alive that could survive the onslaught of her full essence. It was … amazing," Spike remembered, whispering almost reverently. "When she opened herself to me, I felt - alive! My God, the beauty that surrounded me, that filled me … every detail of life that makes up happiness swirling around and thru me until I almost collapsed - from sheer joy. Turns out I experienced all of that in less than ten seconds." Silence filled the room as they contemplated what they had learned.

"Doesn't she get lonely?" Buffy asked. "I mean, she can't even reveal her true self to the people she loves the most. I can't imagine how lonely that would make me feel."

"It's not the same thing, Buffy," Giles said. "Maggie's nature isn't hidden - it's in everything she does. All of us are used to hiding aspects of ourselves. Maggie hides nothing about who she is. She is the embodiment of the Light, completely dedicated to maintaining it's balance in this world. It's not that she doesn't know how loneliness feels - you heard how her life began. It's just that she moved beyond such mundane worries at an age when most of us were still in diapers." Giles spoke passionately about the witch, admiration in every syllable he uttered.

"I'm confused," Dawn spoke up. "If the three of you are the same age, why does Magistra look older than the two of you? And how did they grow up if they were born demons?"

"Here, here," Xander agreed. "I don't get it either."

"Thangh Doh age like human children until around the age of twenty-five, when their aging process slows so far down it takes years for them to even age a day. Maggie appears older one, because she's part human, and two, because bearing such a burden from such a young age takes its toll," Spike explained.

"Can she fall in love?" Anya asked, hugging Xander's arm. "I mean, could anyone measure up, considering who she is?" Giles stood up and walked into the kitchen, carrying his teacup.

"Yes, she can fall in love," Spike said softly. "And oh yes, there are one or two that could measure up quite well," he observed, following Giles' exit with his eyes.

"He's in love with her," Buffy stated quietly, catching the look on Spike's face as he watched Giles.

"I believe he is, pet" Spike said, sadness in his voice.

"Why is that bad?" Xander whispered at Spike, the four moving closer to where he and Buffy sat on the couch.

"Because even though I said she can fall in love, I don't think Mags thinks she has the right to. She has given everything to her position, devoted her entire existence to it without question. I don't think she

believes it's possible to have both that, and what Rupert would offer her. So he loves her from afar while standing by her side. Khai said it's the first time he's ever seen Maggie not take the bull by the horns. Rupert knows she loves him, but he also knows she won't contemplate falling in love with him. I can relate," he said, looking at Buffy.

"Should we hit the books, Giles?" Willow asked as he reentered the room, carrying two steaming cups of tea.

"Yes, I believe we should. Spike?" Giles asked, gesturing at the second cup he had placed on the table.

"Thanks, Rupert," Spike responded gratefully. "Nothing like the real thing from back home," he said, sipping the tea appreciatively. "Ahhh. Right then. Let's get started," he said, the others assuming their positions around the table.

TWENTY-TWO

Two hours later, Buffy looked up, deciding she had some calls to make. She looked across the table at Spike and paused, enjoying the opportunity to watch him unobserved. He was leaning back in his chair, his legs stretched out before him, resting on the edge of the table. He was reading the book in his lap, unconsciously chewing on a pen. A pad of paper rested on the table, containing notes scrawled in his bold, old-fashioned script. His features were absorbed in concentration, his eyes skimming quickly over the words before turning to the next page. Buffy realized she had never seen him like this, and if she didn't know better she'd have thought he was some quiet scholar researching a term paper. The only thing missing was a pair of wire-rim glasses. Buffy felt a tightness in her chest as she continued to watch him, not sure of what she was feeling, but knowing some part of her leapt in recognition of emotions long forgotten. Spike looked up suddenly, his features breaking out in a wide smile as he saw her studying him. He winked at her, and returned to his book.

"I'm going to make some calls," Buffy said, standing. "I'll be back in a little while." The others nodded silently, continuing their research.

Khai eventually returned to the table and pulled Giles into the living room to talk over what he had learned. The two returned to the group at the same time Maggie and Buffy entered from the kitchen. Khai motioned for Maggie and Spike to join them, and the three siblings and the Watcher returned to the living room.

"Something big must be up," Xander observed, all attempts at research forgotten.

"When did we become the kids needing protecting?" Willow asked, miffed at the exclusion. Giles reentered the room, frantically searching through the books on the table until he found the one he was looking for.

"Giles," Buffy began, only to be instantly interrupted.

"Not now, Buffy! Just … wait!" Giles snapped at her, returning to the living room.

Buffy looked as though she'd been slapped, trying to remember the last time Giles had spoken to her like that.

"I don't think I like the looks of this," Dawn whispered, her eyes full of dread.

"Well you can bet I'm going to find …" Buffy was interrupted by raised voices coming from the other room.

"You can't just ignore this, Maggie!" Khai all but shouted at his sister.

"Damn it, Khai, it's MY DECISION!!!" the witch shouted back, the house seeming to shake from the force of her voice.

The rest of the Scoobies rushed to the living room, stopping to observe the battle of wills taking place in front of them.

"You can't put everything in jeopardy just to prove a bloody point, Maggie!" Spike agreed with his brother.

"Spike," Maggie said, making an effort to calm down. "Though I know you're just as pivotal in this as I am, it's my job to make this point."

"Not like this!" Khai cried. "This is not the way to do your job!" He screamed at her.

Magistra ceased all movement. Her irises turned completely white while her pupils expanded, growing blacker as blinding white energy crackled at her fingertips.

"Do not presume to lecture me on what my duties are, brother," she said, her voice reverberating through to the very core of everyone gathered there.

"Maggie, please," Giles said entreatingly, his voice soft.

Magistra whipped her head around to look at him and returned to her human guise when she saw the gentle look on his face.

"Rupert, please tell me you understand?" she asked beseechingly, vulnerability flashing briefly across her face.

"I do, Maggie, I promise you that," he assured her. "I also understand not wanting to see you hurt, which you know is exactly the point Khai and Spike are trying to make - in an obnoxiously brotherly way I might add," he joked lightly, causing her to smile briefly. "We need to take a step back from this, make absolutely certain we have as many facts as possible, before any decision is made. Please, Maggie, promise me you'll do that. You'll wait until we have the information we need."

"I'll wait for as long as I can, Rupert. I cannot promise more than that," the witch agreed

"Fair enough. Why don't the two of us head to the magic shop so you can pick up the things you need?" He suggested.

"Alright," she nodded at him, attempting a smile. "Boys," she said to her brothers, gathering them both to her. "I'm sorry. I know you love me. I love you too. I also know we can push each other's buttons like no one's business. But know this. Tread lightly brothers. I will not fight with you about this again. You need to trust that I will make the right decision when the time comes." She looked both of them firmly in the eye, and then left with Giles.

"Holy shit," Anya whispered in awe. "Please don't allow me to anger her in any way," she said sincerely, looking at Xander.

"Right back at ya, babe," Xander said. "I'd look to see if I wet myself but I'm pretty sure I'm still too scared to move."

"What's going on guys?" Buffy asked as Spike and Khai remained where they were, Spike's hand on Khai's shoulder. The two were looking at each other, obviously communicating with their minds. They both nodded, and Khai walked upstairs.

Willow looked at Spike questioningly as he turned around. He shook his head in response. "He just needs some time, pet. He'll be all right. Buffy, can I see you a minute, then I'll explain everything. Why don't you lot have a seat?" he told the group.

Buffy followed Spike back to the dining room and watched as he pulled out a chair and lowered himself into it, looking as though the weight of the world was on his shoulders.

"Spike?" she asked softly as she walked over to him. Spike grabbed her waist, pulling her toward him and resting his head on her breast. He wrapped his arms around her and sighed. Buffy gently held his head to her chest and stroked his hair, rocking gently. They sat like that for several moments until Spike finally lifted his head and looked up at her. "Caring about people can really suck some times. Didya know that?" he asked, his face looking like that of a little boy.

"Yes, Spike. I knew that," she said, smiling sweetly at him before leaning down and gently kissing his lips. "Are you ready?"

"As I'll ever be," he said releasing all of her except her hand, which he promptly brought to his lips and kissed. "Okay," he nodded.

TWENTY-THREE

The others looked up expectantly as Spike and Buffy walked in. Buffy sat in the easy chair, Spike choosing to sit on the floor between her feet, casually wrapping a hand around her knee as he leaned back.

"So," he began. "Now you know what Mags is like when she's pissed." He smiled wryly, seeing their nods of agreement. "Gotta admit - first time I've seen her like that. Felt like bolting out the door, I'm ashamed to say. Now you have more of an idea of what I was talking about earlier," he said, glancing pointedly at Dawn.

"Believe me, Spike," Dawn said vehemently. "If I didn't get it before - which I did - I definitely get it now!"

"No doubt!" Willow agreed. "I mean, I knew she was powerful, but she didn't even do anything and I freaked inside."

"So what happened - what's going on?" Buffy asked, smoothing her fingers over the back of his hair.

Spike shifted his weight to lean one hip against the chair, Buffy curling one of her legs under her so he could turn sideways and look at her and the rest of the group as he talked.

"When Khai spoke with his dad, the Master became very concerned the moment Araknal was mentioned. Apparently, it was Maggie's predecessor, Briduna, who bound Araknal, with the help of Zo's own Master - Khailan - the one who brought him over to the Light. Obviously he felt pretty strongly about him to have named his son after him. Araknal is a lesser god of the Dark, about two steps up on the god chain from Glory. He's basically a Light sucker, and I don't mean in the humorous way. The more forces of light used around him, the more powerful he becomes. He sucks the energy that's expended and makes it his. The reason he chose to enter this dimension in the first place was personal. Zo's Master had been Araknal's right-hand demon, until some of his scavenging raids in this world captured the attention of the Witch. The
gist of the matter is that he fell for her hard, thus falling for the light as well. He survived the trials, and became a Guardian. As you'll recall based on our experiences with Glory, gods are terribly self-centered and vain. Araknal has ruled his realm through fear for centuries. The idea that anyone, especially his first lieutenant, would have the nerve to walk away didn't sit so well. So, he plotted and planned for half a millennia, and came after him. Unfortunately, his abilities as a Light sucker weren't known before his arrival, since no aspect of the Light exists in his dimension. What the forces of the Light thought would be a routine banishing turned out to be one of the fiercest battles ever fought, with the Light almost vanishing from this dimension forever. They kept using their powers to attack, not realizing his ability until it was almost too late. What happened from there is still murky, aside from the success of the binding spell."

"Well, why? I mean, why murky? Why can't they just talk to who was there? It's pretty obvious Briduna and Khailan aren't around any more, but …Oh. Never mind," Willow said.

"Briduna sacrificed herself in order to close the hell mouth," Spike explained." Khailan spent the rest of his days babbling, his mind gone. Though there obviously are witnesses to what happened, only Briduna and Khailan knew exactly what occurred during the banishment. All that's left are the ramblings of a madman that were recorded upon his return to the clan. Zo isn't sure whether it's wise for Maggie to be here until the actual attempt on the hell mouth, given what happened before, since it is unknown whether Araknal was able to draw on the power of the Light before he entered this dimension. Maggie, on the other hand, believes she should stay, knowing she's really the best chance at preventing that from ever coming to pass."

"So that's what the argument was about?" Dawn asked.

"Basically," Spike confirmed. "No one doubts these things were meant to be - there are way too many coincidences for that to be the case. The main bone of contention is whether Araknal is manipulating us without our knowledge - in order to assist him in attaining his goal - or whether we were all meant to come together to prevent the hell mouth from being opened. Maggie obviously believes in the latter, whereas the rest of her family is weighing in on the side of 'better safe than sorry'."

"Well, I think that kinda makes sense," Dawn said. "So why did she freak at Khai like that?"

"Because suggesting that she could be manipulated by a Dark one as easily as a pawn in a chess game calls every ounce of her integrity into question," Khai answered, coming into the living room and settling next to Willow, grabbing her hand. "I was wrong in the way I spoke to her," he admitted.

"And you were also trying to prevent her from being a stubborn ass!" they heard the Witch say as she and Giles came in from the kitchen, their arms filled with bags they promptly dumped on the research table.

"Look" Maggie said. "I admit that bashed my ego like there was no tomorrow - bad pun intended - and I rose to the challenge, as all of you were lucky enough to witness," she said cocking her eyebrow at Xander. "No 'Depends' necessary I take it?" she asked, smiling broadly.

"Not so long as the next time I see you like that is when I'm mocking our enemies childishly while standing safely behind you," Xander quipped.

"It's a deal! Now, let's talk. I promise I'll listen without reacting negatively," she said, sitting in the chair Giles provided, smiling her thanks at him.

"Spike was filling us in on the banishment, and why no one knows exactly what happened," Willow offered.

"Ah yes," Maggie nodded. "The sacrifice of Briduna and Khailan. Tragically romantic, isn't it?" she observed.

"Ha?" the group asked in unison.

"Spike, you didn't tell them the whole story?" she asked in amazement.

"Ad to answer their questions, didn't I? I told them the rest of it. I was getting there," he said defensively, Buffy noticing a look of discomfort cross his face as he avoided looking at her.

"Well," Maggie began with relish. "There they were, realizing the very energy Araknal was using against them had been their own. The Forces were weakened, Briduna having thrown almost everything she had against him, only to have it come back at her in its darkest form. Then, the two lovers have a brainstorm, and launch the binding spell. But Araknal has saved his best for last. Since Khailan had been a part of the

Dark, Araknal was able to invade his thoughts, and that's where he found his ace in the hole. Feeling the effects of the binding spell, Araknal launched his revenge. Because he had absorbed so much power from the witch, Araknal was able to implant her. He gathered every last bit of energy he had sucked from her, infused it with his Darkest energy, and planted it within her spirit. Because it had originally come from her, she could not dislodge it. It grew in her like a tumor, overtaking the Light that was her very being. He did this because he knew it would crush his enemy more than death itself, having discovered Khailan's love for her from his mind. As the hell mouth closed above him, they say his evil laughter echoed for miles. Khailan and Briduna never said a word, speaking with each other in their minds. Finally, Khailan raised his sword, and plunged it into Briduna's heart, knowing it may as well have been his own. She died with his hand tightly clasped to her breast. Those who were there say the keening wail that escaped from Khailan has haunted their dreams ever since," the witch finished in a whisper.

"Geez Magistra," Willow finally spoke minutes later, the first to break the silence. "If you ever decide to give up the 'life's calling thing', I'm pretty sure you could make it as a storyteller in the traveling renaissance fairs," she joked, wiping the tears from her eyes.

"I humbly thank you for the - compliment, Willow" the Witch replied. "I think."

"Dawn!" Spike burst out, everyone looking at him curiously "I can't believe I forgot to tell you - Zo is pretty certain you aren't the one mentioned in the prophecies. He told Khai to have Rupert double check the translation! I'm sorry, Bit," he said sincerely.

"Hey, no regrets here about not having a prophecy role! Been there, done that, didn't like the scenery!" she said emphatically. "So, what does the prophecy say?" she asked.

"Well, I'm still trying to determine that," Giles said, removing his glasses and needlessly cleaning them for the umpteenth time that day. " Remember, I said the loose translation indicated the possibility of Dawn, since it mentioned something about a young woman, and being the key. The language is very difficult to translate, as anyone in this dimension stopped using it two hundred years ago. I asked Khai to have his father review it to see if he could make a more accurate translation. After reviewing it again, I believe it refers to the Guardian of the Light and Maggie, her being 'young of heart.' Though her given name is Magistra, her position holds many titles from all different dimensions and demon realms, most of which refer to her protecting the hearts of the young, meaning she maintains the balance of Light to ensure their freedom to love. Were you able to get the information to your father?" Giles asked Khai.

"I was," Khai replied. "He will let us know when he has something."

"Why doesn't he just tell us when he gets here?" Buffy asked. "I mean, the prophecy does mention him, so I'm assuming he'll be heading here soon."

The three siblings and the Watcher said nothing, the rest of the Scoobies looking at them in confusion.

"You can't mean …"Buffy began. "He's not coming?" she asked incredulously. "Are you telling me he's leaving this up to Spike?"

"Thanks for the vote of confidence, luv," Spike said sarcastically jumping to his feet.

"Wait a minute," she said, grabbing his hand to prevent him from leaving. "Hear me out." She raised her eyebrow at him as he continued standing. "That means sitting your ass down and hearing what I have to say before getting all defensive!" she told him heatedly, pulling him down beside her. "Now look, I'm not trying to doubt your abilities," she explained. "But if I heard you right, Khailan had over 500 years of experience as a Guardian, and still had a hard time defeating this guy - and he used to work for him! You've had what - less than nine weeks? Do you see why maybe I don't understand how you could be expected to fulfill the role of the Guardian in the prophecies? Now stop being pissy and answer me," she said, stating her last demand in a sing-song voice.

"Since you put it in that back-handed, concerned kind of way," Spike teased, "then yes, I understand your reservations. But," he said, taking a deep, unneeded breath, " since you won't be there, you won't have to worry about it," he said, avoiding her eyes.

"Excuse me?" she asked in a low voice, Spike wincing as he recognized the tone. "What do you mean I won't be there?"

"I can't have you there, luv," Spike said simply. "I can't have your life jeopardized because you have the misfortune of my being in love with you. And I won't discuss it any further. You can't be there - period!" he finished passionately, walking out of the room.

"What the hell was that about?" Buffy asked, moving to follow Spike.

"Buffy," Khai stopped her. "Think about what he said, not about the way he said it," the demon cautioned her.

"Buffy," Magistra explained. "Try to see it from his perspective. If Spike and I find ourselves in the same position as Bridunna and Khailan, Araknal can't hurt us the way he did them - as long as you aren't there! We love each other immensely, but if one or both of us have to die, big whoop, it's our choice. We know the risks, and we respect each other's right to take them. Remember, the only mind he can touch is one that's lived in the Dark. The reason Araknal could strike them so deep is because Briduna was responsible for Khailan's introduction to the Light. Even though he went through the trials for himself, he never would have come to that point if he hadn't fallen in love with Briduna. It's the same thing for Spike. He came to my father for the sake of himself, he went through the trials so he could once again take pride in who he was. But you can't be naïve enough to think he ever would have reached that point if he hadn't fallen in love with you. You were his introduction to the light, thus making you vulnerable should Araknal breach Spike's mind. Everyone was touched by the tragedy of Briduna and Khailan, but they also had five hundred years of loving each other before their time together ended. There were no doubts between them. To Spike, your life could be sacrificed because you're loved by someone you're not even sure you like half the time. Khailan broke after knowing his love was returned for five hundred years. How do you think Spike would fare if you died because of him? It would break him, Buffy. I truly believe it's the only thing that could. That's why he said what he did. You have to respect that, even if you don't agree with it."

TWENTY-FOUR

Spike finished his cigarette on the porch, knowing there was sod all chance of Buffy doing as he asked. He flicked the cigarette away angrily and returned to the living room in time to hear Magistra finish.

"You're right," Buffy said to the Witch, turning to look at Spike. "I don't agree with it. You two aren't the only ones with a job to do. I have one too. There's no way this guy is going to try coming into my backyard
without me being there to stop him. You know that," she said to Spike heatedly. "I think we need to listen to Giles on this one. They didn't know anything about what they were facing - we do. Hopefully, we'll find out even more before he makes his move. But know this," she echoed Maggie's words from earlier, matching her tone. "I WILL be there - that is my choice to make - not yours. And if he does to me what he did to Briduna, you know what to do."

"I can't kill you, Buffy!" Spike cried desperately.

"Then you don't really love me," she said, looking him challengingly in the eye.

Spike reeled back, stunned. "How can you say that?" he asked hoarsely.

"She's right," Willow said, capturing everyone's attention. "If you could watch her become part of the very thing she's fought against all her life, and do nothing, then you don't have a clue what real love is." She told Spike disgustedly. "The only reason I'm standing here today is because two people loved me enough to at least try."

"I would kill you, Buffy," Anya offered sincerely. Everyone's heads whipped around to look at her. "Well I would," she repeated defensively.

Buffy laughed, touched by Anya's awkward sentiment. "Thank you Anya," she said sincerely.

"Well if Anya could do it …" Spike quipped, pulling Buffy close and hugging her. "But I don't want to," he muttered into her hair.

"Well I should hope not!" she said, laughing. "Besides, I've died often enough, thank you very much. I don't plan on doing it again. Well, at least for a very long time!"

"I am EXHAUSTED!" Xander burst out. "Is anyone else as drained as I am? You do realize I've only been here for four hours! What nasty little tidbits will the next four bring I wonder? Well I'm taking a break! Pizza anyone?" he asked, seeing their nods. "Okay, I shall return with refreshing, cheesy goodness."

"I think we could all use a break," Giles said. "Why don't we set everything aside for now, and try to relax. We can resume in a few hours. I think I'll go lay down, rest my head a bit," he smiled, going to his room.

"That sounds good to me," Magistra admitted, following Giles' lead.

"Dawn," Anya said. "I brought the new Cosmo. Wanna take the beauty quiz?" she tempted, heading to the table, Dawn close on her heels.

"Come on," Buffy said to Spike as Willow and Khai stretched out on the couch, Willow's head resting on Khai's chest. She pulled him after her upstairs to her room.

"Buffy," Spike started awkwardly when they started walking to the bed. "I don't think …" he stopped when Buffy held up her hand.

"I just want you to hold me, Spike," she said sincerely, looking into his eyes. "I just want to rest with you holding me. No talking. Can we do that?"

Spike nodded his assent, glad words weren't required as he joined her on the bed. In all the times they'd had sex, she'd rarely let him touch her afterward, let alone hold her. Spike propped the pillows behind him and laid back, opening his arms for Buffy to join him. Buffy threw one leg over his and wrapped her arm tightly around his stomach as she snuggled her head against his chest. Sighing contently, she closed her eyes. Spike lightly rubbed her back, his cheek coming to rest against her head. Words couldn't express the joy he felt at being there with her, holding her. He slowly closed his eyes, a contented smile curving his lips.

Buffy awoke to find herself on her side, Spike spooning her from behind, his arm curled loosely around her hip. Carefully, she gripped his arm, wrapping it more tightly around her as she leaned back into him, wanting to feel him closer.

"This better, luv?" he asked as stretched out behind her, pressing against her so every part of their bodies were touching.

"Much," she sighed sleepily.

They lay like that for a time, neither wanting to move. "Buffy," Spike said softly in her ear. "Feel me now?" he asked.

"Isn't that what they call this?" Buffy teased, hugging his arm.

"Please," Spike asked earnestly.

"I take it Khai explained what he thinks happened last night?" she asked him. She felt his nod against the side of her head. "Are you feeling tortured right now?" she joked.

"Only in a good way," he promised, giving her a squeeze.

"Okay," she said, and closed her eyes, taking deep, even breaths.

Moments later light exploded around Buffy, causing her to cover her eyes. When she looked again, she found herself in a beautiful garden, the sun's bright light causing the richness of the colors to shimmer. Spike was standing before her, a bluish glow surrounding him. His face wore a peaceful expression as he raised his arms and held them out from his sides. Love flooded his eyes as he looked at her, his face suddenly switching back and forth between demon and human. As this continued, Buffy realized his eyes never changed from their naturally blue state, his expression remaining the same when both demon and human emerged. He smiled at her, and once again she found herself covering her eyes, shielding them from the light that surrounded her.

Buffy struggled to sit up as she came to, Spike releasing her and sitting cross-legged on the bed. Buffy took several calming breaths, her hands gripping the side of the mattress. She turned and looked at Spike, knowing he'd be looking at her like he was, with his eyes full of worry. She smiled tremulously at him, her eyes filling with tears. "I am truly happy for you, Spike," she said softly in a voice filled with sincerity. Then she stood up and left the room.

Spike sat frozen on the bed, not knowing what to do or think. He had been so certain that things would be better if she knew for herself how different he was. Now he had the feeling he'd been wrong. Though he knew she had truly meant what she said, something wasn't right. She had looked almost … hurt. Spike could feel the anxiety rising in him as he wondered what she had seen. He stood up and walked out of the room, stopping as he heard muffled sobs coming from the bathroom. Spike silently placed his hand against the door, his heart hurting at the thought of her crying because of him. Though he wanted nothing more than to comfort her, he listened to the voice inside him telling him to let her be.

Willow was alone in the living room when Buffy descended the stairs fifteen minutes later. She looked at her friend in concern, having seen the confusion on Spike's face when he'd come down and headed to the kitchen. Khai had followed him, equally concerned for his brother.

Buffy nodded toward the porch and headed outside, Willow right behind her.

"Have you been crying?" Willow asked, sadness in her voice. Buffy nodded at her, tears filling her eyes again. "Oh, Buffy," Willow said as she gave her friend a hug. "What is it? Did you and Spike have another fight?"

"No," Buffy answered truthfully, and explained what happened when she had reached out with her senses at Spike.

"So, you're happy for him," Willow observed noting Buffy's nod, "But you've been crying your eyes out ever since?" Buffy nodded again. "Do you know why?"

"I'm not sure," Buffy said. "I can't tell you how it felt - how he felt - to me," she continued. Everything just hit me. Every terrible thing I ever did or said to him just came flying at me at once. For the first time in my life I felt like I was the evil thing. I could barely even look at him. I don't know what to do, Willow. I stood

there realizing I don't have a clue who Spike is, not because of the Guardian thing, but because I've never bothered to ask. I felt all of these horrible things about myself, and he just stood there, looking at me like he loved me. Even his demon self looked at me like that. I have done nothing but hurt him, so much so that he had to go through a hell of his own making just to try and recapture a sense of self that I helped to destroy. And he just keeps loving me. He needs to stop, Wil." Buffy said forcefully. "He shouldn't love me."

"Buffy," Willow said. "Don't you think you're being kinda hard on yourself? You're forgetting that Spike was different then. He was Bad Spike."

"That's just it Wil, he wasn't - not as bad as I made him out to be. And I just kept kicking him when he was down, telling him I could never love a soulless demon like him. But the worst part is that I still don't know if I can," she cried desperately. "Here I am, leading him on with hope again, still not thinking I can ever love him. What kind of person am I? That's why he needs to stop loving me Willow - I'll just keep hurting him if he doesn't."

"Buffy," Willow said with concern, seeing her friend nearing hysteria. "Calm down. You're just upset. Of course you could love Spike. You're on the same side for sure now - why wouldn't you be able to love him?"

"Because he still doesn't have a soul," Buffy whispered brokenly.

"You're kidding, right?" Willow asked as Buffy shook her head. "Then you need to grow up Buffy!" Willow said in exasperation. Buffy looked at her friend in surprise.

"Haven't you given up that line of bull yet? Buffy, I understood you clinging to that argument when you were with Angel, because it was the only way you'd give yourself permission to love him. But that was over four years ago. I would have thought you'd learned a long time ago that the existence of a soul doesn't make or break a person. Just look at the Troika. They all had souls. Are you saying they were better than Spike? Do you know if Anya has a soul - or Dawn? Would you stop loving them if they didn't? It's what's at the core that counts, Buffy, regardless of what form it takes. You should know that by now," she finished gently, squeezing Buffy's hand as she left her with her thoughts.

"I don't think she can ever love me," Spike told his brother sadly after telling him what happened. "And I don't think I can stay around her if that's the case. She'd feel bad for making me feel bad, and I'd … it would just be one big mess. Have to admit, part of me's been hoping this whole time that she'd throw her arms around me and tell me she loved me after seeing the changes for herself. Stupid git," he said, mocking himself. "Shoulda known it wouldn't be that simple with her. I don't know what to do Khai," he admitted.

"Give her time, Spike," Khai said seriously. "I told you before you were wrong about her. I believe you still are. Just give her time to sort things out. She deserves time to adjust."

"Am I really that different," Spike asked.

"In many ways you are, brother, but that's not what I meant. She needs time to adjust to the changes in herself, not to the changes in you."

"I hope you're right," Spike said, walking away, his shoulders slumped in dejection.

"So do I," Khai said silently to himself.

TWENTY-FIVE

"Hey you," Buffy said gently as she rounded the side of the house and spotted Spike sitting on the steps, smoking a cigarette.

"Hey yourself," Spike responded with a small smile, flicking his cigarette to the ground.

"I'm sorry about my wigging earlier," she said, sitting beside him.

"I am too," he said in a low voice, not looking at her.

"Spike, it wasn't you," she clarified. "I'm sorry I took off without making sure you knew that. You … you felt … beautiful," she sighed, placing a finger under his chin and raising it until he met her eyes. "Truly beautiful," she repeated, letting go of his chin and watching sadly as he looked away from her.

Buffy watched as he seemed to wage a silent war within himself. When it appeared as though he were going to speak, she reacted without thinking, suddenly afraid of what he was going to say. Before she knew it. Buffy found herself on top of him, straddling his hips, his feet still on the top step. She kissed him hungrily, teasing his mouth open to receive her tongue. Buffy felt the heat rush through her as he responded, and she deepened her exploration of his mouth, feeling his hands on her back, pulling her closer. Frustrated at the amount of clothing between them, Buffy clawed at his t-shirt with one hand, ripping her own shirt open with the other, glad she wasn't wearing a bra. Finally succeeding in freeing his shirt from his waistband, Buffy paused only long enough to rip the offensive garment over his head, before renewing her attack on his mouth. She sighed in pleasure as she pressed her naked flesh against his chest, reveling in the feel of his cool, hard muscles beneath her burning skin. "I missed you so much," she murmured, focusing her attention on his neck, playfully nipping at the place where his pulse would have been. Buffy returned to his mouth,
unable to get enough. She pressed her breasts tightly against his chest, absorbing his moan with her mouth. She ground her hips against him as she felt him hardening beneath her, gasping as a rush of pleasure tingled through her, heightening her arousal. "I want to feel you inside me," she whispered huskily into his ear as her hand began to move downward.

"Buffy, no" Spike whispered, grabbing her hand and preventing it from unhooking his belt. "No," he said more forcefully as she reached for it with her other hand. He sat up and firmly removed her from his lap, setting her down beside him. Buffy sat there, stunned, her eyes still glazed with desire. "Wha … What… Don't you want me?" she asked in a small voice as she began rebuttoning her shirt, her face now flushed in embarrassment. She watched as Spike angrily yanked his shirt over his head.

"Want you?" Spike asked incredulously as he began pacing, running his hand through his hair repeatedly. "Look at me," he demanded, stopping in front of her and holding his hand out in front of him, palm down. "I'm bloody shaking from want of you," he rasped out as Buffy noticed the tremble in his fingers. "I'd like nothing more than to carry you upstairs and make love to you until you can't walk for a month! But that's exactly why I can't! Because I would be making love to you, and you'd just be fucking me," he said bluntly. "That used to be enough for me, I know. But it's not anymore. I want it all. I am willing to give you time to figure some things out," he said as he approached her calmly, leaning over to speak into her ear. " But the next time you feel me inside you will be when you're begging to make love to me, and not before, " he promised in a low voice before resuming his pacing, finally stopping to stand in front of her. "I am so in love with you that at times I forget to check if it's daylight before I step outside. But don't approach me like this again unless you're able to meet my terms. As far as I'm concerned, we're together - a couple. But you need to know I'm with you because I believe you will come to love me. If that isn't the case, if you don't believe you can, then you need to tell me now, and I'll never bother you again. Agreed?" he asked, fear gripping his chest as he waited for her to answer.

"Agreed," she said simply, feeling walls crashing within her as her heart expanded.

"Right then," Spike said, ignoring the sudden need to jump for joy. "Come here," he said, cocking an eyebrow at her in challenge.

Buffy walked over and stood directly in front of him, tilting her head back to look him in the eye as she raised an eyebrow in response. "I love you," Spike said simply, placing a soft kiss on her lips. "Even if you are a big tease," he said solemnly, waiting for the explosion. He didn't have long to wait as Buffy promptly punched him in the arm. "Yeah, cuz I was the one who backed off, leaving someone all hot and bothered," she said wryly.

"Does being hot and bothersome count?" Spike asked teasingly, laughing at the withering gaze she shot him. He draped his arm across his shoulder as her arm encircled his waist, and they headed back inside.

"Look who I found standing in front of the pet store," Xander said to Buffy and Spike as they walked in. They looked in the direction Xander was pointing to find Clem waving happily at them. "I figured there's nothing sadder than seeing the face of a puppy trying to get into a pet store, so I dragged him back with me,"

Buffy smiled broadly at Clem, stopping to give him a quick hug. "Hey mate," Spike said, nodding at Clem. "Glad to see you survived the other night. So did I - barely," he joked.

"Well it's no wonder, Spike considering …" Clem faded as he caught Spike's look. "…stuff," he finished lamely.

"Okay people, we're going to talk while we eat," Magistra said, bustling in from the kitchen with plates and napkins, setting them next to the pizza boxes in front of her. "Thanks to Xander, I don't have to cook, so I'm already in a great mood. Brothers, your delicacy is heating on the stove, spiced with love by yours truly. Everyone dig in and we'll get started."

"Here's what we know," Giles began a quarter of an hour later. "The last recordings of Khailan are on their way, along with Master Zo's translation of the prophecy. They should arrive sometime tomorrow, thanks to yet another mystical aspect of the Thangh Doh. Maggie is working on determining how Araknal is most likely communicating with the Rachni. She will let us know when she finds something of interest. Does anyone else have anything to add?"

"I do," Buffy said as all eyes turned to her. "I made some calls this afternoon, before Khai finished speaking with his dad. I called Jake, just to let him know what to expect, and to see if anything had come across his desk yet. He said he'd heard rumblings, but nothing of interest. We'll be keeping in regular contact until all of this is resolved," Buffy explained, dreading a certain being's response to her next point. "I also contacted Riley," she said, looking at Spike. Though he said nothing, his eyes narrowed in hatred as he waited to hear her story. "I figured it made sense to give him and Sam the heads up, since some of these demons are sure to pass their way. In return, he promised he'll let us know what they find out, and if they rack up any casualties of the Rachni variety. Oh, and he said to say hi to everyone," she finished lamely, feeling Spike's eyes burning into her skin.

"Everyone, pet?" he asked innocently. "You sure about that?"

"Spike," she said in exasperation. "I'm sorry Riley was the one who caught you with the demon eggs, but …"

"Caught me with more than that as I recall," Spike retorted, cocking his eyebrow at her.

"BUT," she continued, flashing him a silencing look "it doesn't matter who caught you, what matters is that you were caught, red-handed even."

"Who's Riley?" Clem asked innocently.

"Buffy's ex." Spike said. "Military type, took off on her, the bloody poofter. You remember Clem, he's the bloke that Buffy helped blow up my crypt. Then she dumped me. Ringing any bells?" he asked his friend, never taking his eyes off Buffy.

"Oh no," Clem said guiltily. "You still haven't told her?"

"Told her what, mate?" Spike asked innocently, enjoying his game.

"Buffy," Clem began shamefully. "Those eggs weren't there because of Spike. They were there because of me."

Buffy's eyes widened in shock as she looked from Clem to Spike and back again.

"See," Clem explained, "I belong to the SPCD, the Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Demons. We heard about the way governments were outbidding each other for their unhatched eggs, to the point where the demons were being tracked down to their very spawning grounds. Talk about invasion of privacy! Anyway,

our group heard about this Doctor guy who was in town to steal the eggs and sell them to the highest bidder. So, we made an agreement with the demon to keep the eggs safe until family could reclaim them. Things didn't exactly go as planned, and we showed up on Spike's doorstep with the eggs, begging for help. Spike let us stash them downstairs when we promised we'd be back for them in two hours. Needless to say, we learned our lesson over that one. But Spike was just trying to help us out - he didn't know anything about them."

"Why didn't you tell me?" Buffy asked Spike.

"Because you let him waltz in and convince you of my guilt without even a bloody fight. The closest you came to sticking up for me was to talk about how I was too incompetent to plan such a thing. I was already tried and convicted in your mind when you saw the bloody things. Why bother trying to defend myself? You wouldn't have believed me anyway," he reminded her bitterly.

"Okay new rule," Buffy said, strolling to his chair and promptly straddling his lap, moving her face within inches of his. "We don't keep anything from each other from this point on, regardless of bruised egos or anything else. We hold nothing back. Agreed?" she asked, staring him in the eye.

"Agreed," he said, pleased with her demand for such a promise. Buffy leaned forward and kissed him fully on the mouth, her lips lingering as she made sure her unspoken statement was understood by everyone in the room. She had just made it clear they were together in front of all her friends. Spike knew a goofy smile was reflected on his face but he couldn't help himself. Immediately, he grabbed her back onto his lap and kissed her passionately. "Thank you," he whispered in her ear, wanting her to know he realized what she had done. She smiled brightly at him and shifted on his lap, grabbing both of his hands before dropping her next bomb.

"I also called Angel," she rushed out, looking at Spike with her peripheral vision only, afraid of what she'd see. She had felt his leg muscles tense beneath her after hearing her announcement, but his expression was unreadable. " I wanted to give him a head's up as well, since a lot of them will probably need to pass through LA to get here. I also wanted him to see if they have any information that could help. He promised he'd get back to us, and said they'd be here if we need them."

"Did you tell him about me - about being a Guardian." Spike asked in a quiet voice. Buffy met his eyes and
nodded. "Yes, I did. He said to say 'Congratulations', and that he's very proud of you." Buffy wasn't certain what reaction she expected Spike to have, but she knew it wasn't this. Spike's tension seemed to leave his body at his grandsire's words, and Buffy saw tears in his eyes before he bowed his head, suddenly fascinated with his t-shirt. "Bloody poofter," he mumbled, but a smile could be heard in his voice. Buffy squeezed both his hands before letting one drop, holding tightly to the other.

"Good work Buffy," Giles said. "The more help, the better. Anyone else have anything to add?"

"Um, Xander filled me in on what's been happening," Clem said. "I'll keep my ears perked for any information."

"Thank you, Clem," Magistra said, flashing a bright smile at the demon. The expression on his face was reminiscent of a puppy who just received a thorough scratching behind the ears.

"Okay," she continued. "Rupert thinks, and I agree, that we need to keep our powers as closely in check as possible, since we don't know what negative effect the use of them could be having. That means we go heavy on the hand -to- hand combat. Spike, Khai - keep your flashing in your pants!" the Witch joked. "That goes for me and Willow too. The physical side has never been Willow's strongpoint, and though I can hold my own, I'm rusty. This means a lot is going to fall on the shoulders of our warriors. So, you four," she said, indicating Buffy, Spike, Khai and Xander, who blushed with pride at being considered one of the warriors, "No running off. Now that I think about it … Clem, would you mind staying with Dawn?" she asked. Clem nodded happily at her request

"Rupert," she turned to look at Giles. "You are far too good in a fight to have you remain behind. Considering Willow and I are really only there in case of emergency, we need the best we have. You're one of them. Protect us?" she asked simply.

"With my life, Maggie" Giles responded, his voice filled with emotion.

"Thank you," she smiled at him brightly before turning back to the group. "Okay then, let's head out."

They gathered their things as Giles updated Clem on the spell surrounding the house. Ready, the group of eight left the house.

TWENTY-SIX

The Scoobies patrolled in a loose phalanx. Magistra, Willow and Anya were surrounded by Buffy in the front, Spike and Khai to the sides, and Giles and Xander at the rear. Word must have hit the underground that the Slayer was patrolling en masse as they had seen not so much as the flash of a fang. They were approaching the area of their last battle with the Rachni, when Khai and Spike suddenly went into game face as Buffy stopped the group, sensing trouble.

That was all the warning they had as they found themselves surrounded by twenty Rachni, their eighty eyes glowing red in the moonlight. A second later, they attacked. Khai let out a war cry as he gutted his first attacker. Buffy stepped forward and neatly decapitated her first opponent, using the momentum of her swing
to strike her sword deeply into another's chest, kicking him to the ground as she dislodged her weapon. Spike quickly dispatched two of the Rachni by slicing them open from the neck down. He blocked two hairy arms that were reaching for him, and responded by slicing them both cleanly off. The beast roared in pain as it reached for Spike with the other arms, which he too sliced off.

"Monty Python anyone?" he quipped, goading the demon. "What you gonna do? Head butt me to death?"

"Spike," Buffy grunted. "Less … talk … more … killing!" she gritted out as she neatly avoided the pincer of the creature in front of her.

"Sorry, luv," Spike responded sheepishly as he put the demon out of its misery. He quickly checked on how the others were doing. Xander had lopped off the heads of two of the enemy, and was battling his third, Anya behind him with her mace at the ready. Giles had three bodies piled near him and was heading to help Maggie, who had two attacking her at the same time. Spike briefly marveled at his sister, glad she was on his side. Magistra let out her own war cry as she smashed her fist into the first demon's face, sending him five feet backward. The second reached for her from behind and suddenly found himself flying through the air as she flipped him over her shoulder, his neck making a loud crunch as it struck the ground. Khai was in front of Willow, fighting a demon with each hand as though it were the most natural thing in the world. They both ducked to avoid the web being shot at them, Khai never missing a thrust. Spike turned to look at Buffy just as he saw a claw ripping into her shoulder from one of the three surrounding her. Spike covered the twenty feet between them in two flips, a primal roar leaving his throat as he heard Buffy scream in pain. Three heads hit the ground with one swing as he bent down to check on her.

"Buffy," he said, his heart in his throat.

"I'm okay, Spike," she gritted out in pain. "It just, AHHHHHH," she moaned as she moved her arm, "hurts like hell! How are the others?"

"Fine," Spike said as he looked up, seeing Xander and Khai finishing off the two Khai had been fighting, Willow and Anya behind them. Giles and Maggie were heading their way, having heard Buffy's scream.

"Is she all right?" Giles asked worriedly.

"I'm fine, Giles," Buffy reassured him. "Just in some major flipping pain!!!"

"Let's get her back to the house so we can get her patched her up," Maggie said.

Not waiting for Buffy to attempt to stand, Spike quickly scooped her up in his arms and began striding in the direction of the house.

"I should get hurt more often," she joked as she snuggled into his neck, wincing at the pain shooting through her shoulder.

Spike growled low in his chest. "Don't you bloody dare!" he said in a low voice. "Love you, Slayer," he said, quickly kissing her head.

"I know, Spike. I'm so glad," she said sincerely. Spike said nothing, content to feel the happiness flow through him at her words.

"Buffy?" Dawn asked with concern when Spike walked through the door, carrying her sister in his arms.

"I'm okay Dawnie," Buffy said, smiling at her sister. She gasped in pain as Spike set her down as gently as he could, her shoulder moving slightly at the adjustment. Buffy touched Spike's cheek reassuringly, seeing the look in his eyes at causing her pain.

"Really, everyone, I'm okay," she addressed the group, seeing their concern. "I'm just missing a big 'ol chunk of skin where my shoulder used to be. Maggie's gonna fix me up and I'll be good as new in no time. Right Maggie," she asked the Witch as she set the first aid kit next to her. Buffy looked at her in confusion as she walked away.

"Khai's the true healer in the family, Buffy," she explained as Khai sat next to Buffy's chair. "With him here, you won't even have a chance to play hurt tomorrow!" she winked at the Slayer. "Okay people, let's give the boy room to work. I, for one, could use a drink. Anyone else around here like to imbibe - Spike you don't even have to open your mouth - you either Rupert. Let's raid the liquor cabinet and have ourselves a good, old-fashioned war party!"

"You'll be fine, Buffy," Khai said a few minutes later as he taped down the last part of her bandage. They hadn't spoken after the group left them alone, Buffy knowing he was entering a meditative state to connect with the healing powers within him. Her skin had flooded with heat where he touched her, but it didn't burn. It actually dulled the pain she was feeling. Buffy had spotted light glowing from his fingers as he laid them over her wound. The next thing she knew, he was bandaging her shoulder, smiling at her.

"Wow," she said in awe. "That felt … amazing. I feel almost, energized. Thank you Khai," she said sincerely, placing her hand over his.

"Puttin the moves on my brother, pet? I leave you alone for a few minutes …" Spike teased, handing her a martini.

"Well he does have that burning touch thing going for him," Buffy teased back, accepting the glass.

Khai shrugged innocently at his brother as he gave Buffy an exaggerated wink. They both laughed at Spike's growl, a smile conveying his insincerity.

"Mmmmmm, nummy," Buffy said, sipping her cocktail as Spike crouched down in front of her.

"Feeling okay, luv?" he asked, reaching out and brushing the hair off her forehead.

"Never better," she promised, leaning forward and kissing him deeply.

"UGH! Warning! Mush Alert!" Magistra announced as she entered the living room, the rest of the group following behind her.

"How does she do that?" Buffy asked, shaking her head in amazement, Spike laughing at the look of frustration on her face.

"She's Maggie!" Spike said in answer.

Buffy placed her glass on the table and stood up, shoving Spike into the chair as she promptly sat on his lap. "I'll show her mush!" she said, snuggling against him. Spike laughed joyfully, content with whatever the Slayer wanted to do.

"Now that we know Buffy's okay," Magistra said, her eyes sparkling with mischief, "I've just got to say MY GODDESS, I had fun tonight! We rocked out there!" she said, tossing back a shot of alcohol and chasing it with a sip of her beer. "Here's to the Scoobies!" she raised her bottle in toast, everyone clinking their respective drinks together. "Now, who's up for a game of 'I Never'?"

A few hours later, a very inebriated group of Scoobies was lost in a fit of giggles at Giles' expense, he being the only one having to drink at the last statement. Dawn had gone to bed, already having found out more than she wanted to know. Clem also left, saying he'd be in touch.

"Wasn't very nice of you, Magistra," Giles said primly, a slight slur to his words. "You're the only one who knew about my brief interlude with the Shaskar wench."

"What," Maggie laughed. "And your 'I never morphed Richard Nixon into a weasel' challenge wasn't directed at me? Serves you right for picking up such a strumpet!" the Witch retorted, a tinge of jealousy in her joking tone.

"My turn!" Willow piped up. "Mmmm, let's see. I got it! 'I never had sex with someone I despised'" she challenged, thinking Buffy would be the only one to drink. She, Xander and Giles watched in shock as everyone else drank.

"What?" Anya asked bluntly. "It's a demon thing. Well, except for the Slayer over there."

"Yup, " Buffy weaving slightly. "And that was soooo a Spike thing! He is amazing in bed!" she observed truthfully, patting Spike's chest.

"I hear ya sister!" Anya agreed, her and Buffy missing each other's glass in their attempted toast, but drinking anyway.

"He can't be as good as Khai!" Willow blurted out.

"Or his sister!" Giles joined in.

They all looked at each other in surprise and then busted out laughing.

"Khai, you slut, I didn't know you had it in you!" Spike chided his brother. "And Mags, well, always knew you were a hussy at heart!"

"You speak the truth, brother - you speak the truth!" she laughed, bowing in her chair.

"Wil, when … ?" Buffy asked.

"After you went to bed," Willow blushed. "We, ah, checked on the air mattress," she said, leaning over and kissing Khai.

"That air mattress sure has become popular, ha boys!" Maggie teased.

"Why do I feel like I'm getting the short end of the proverbial stick, here?" Xander slurred out carefully.

"Don't worry, honey" Anya reassured him. "I have much better sex with you than I did with Spike. I love you," she explained. Xander nodded, slumping back in the chair with his eyes closed.

"And the first one is down for the count! Rahhhhh" Maggie said, imitating the sounds of a cheering crowd.

"I'm next," Spike spoke up. "'I've never been in love more than I am now," he said, as he drank deeply from his beer. Giles, Khai and Anya joined him. Willow leaned over and kissed Khai again, knowing he understood why she couldn't drink to that challenge yet. Maggie looked at Giles with tears in her eyes, realizing that was the closest he'd come to expressing his feelings for her. Buffy cupped Spike's face with her hands, staring at him in amazement as his heart shone in his eyes.

"My turn," Anya said after kissing Xander on the forehead. "I never had sex in a tree,"

The group laughed as Spike and Buffy guiltily raised their drinks to their mouths.

Buffy couldn't sleep again. Though she had felt very drunk when she came upstairs, she felt instantly awake and clear-headed the moment she got into bed. Finally giving up on what she knew was a lost cause, she stood up, being careful not to disturb Dawn. Restless, she silently left the room.

The party had broken up about an hour ago, with everyone heading to their respective beds. Khai and Spike had helped Anya get Xander downstairs, the latter telling each of them he loved them several times over.

Buffy was startled when Willow came out of her room, nearly running into her. "Can't sleep?" she whispered to her friend. Willow shook her head in response and the two continued on their way downstairs.
They entered the living room, planning to check on their respective demons. They were surprised to see Spike and Khai sitting quietly, staring at them.

"Bout time you two got here," Spike said as he and Khai held open their blankets. Without missing a beat, Buffy and Willow crawled in beside them.

"Don't think I would have been able to sleep without holding you, Slayer," Spike whispered in her ear as he cradled her to his chest.

"Me either," Buffy agreed in a small voice, planting a light kiss on his bare skin. Suddenly exhausted, the two closed their eyes and almost instantly fell asleep, the couple in the bed next to them doing the same.

Part 3