Careful What You Wish For

by JWS1993

Summary:

When denial strikes and a wish is made, Buffy & her friends have to face what real human evil is capable of. Can they pull together and defeat this new threat? Or will they fall apart in the process? What other damage will be left behind if they can? And more questions are raised when Spike knows just who to call.

Notes:

Disclaimer: I don't own any of the Buffyverse characters, I'm just borrowing them for this story.

The Buffy timeline is pretty much all cannon, the angel timeline has be altered to fit the story.

The original characters/universes are of my own creation.

The main universe from my creation is called D.U.S.T. it stands for (Dimensional Unnatural Strike Team) they are essentially the supernatural government.

Other Supernatural/Paranormal/Fantasy or even Sci fi type shows may sometimes be referenced, in this story and future ones. This is because in D.U.S.T. they all exist in one way, shape or form. For example the marvel universe & DC universe may be mentioned in passing by the members of D.U.S.T. this is due to they all have their own multiverse,  each separated by the void hence the name of my first series (Allies From Across The Void) just a look at how my head works lol.

WARNING: the main big bad represents the evilist of humanity, some of his actions & words may easily be offensive. some of my villains are ment to be hated he's one of them. those into dark humour may find him entertaining. I've been told by some friends they have both a love & hate him. He's unpredictable this is what makes him dangerous, some of his actions are so random,  that I've be told by people who have read stuff I've written about him, they thought he was insane, this however is not the case.

This story was originally posted on Elysian Field's under the same username.

Chapter 1: Chapter 1 - The Wish

Notes:

The big bads name won't be revealed till near the end of this chapter.

Magic Box, Sunnydale, California 

 

It's midday and the usual suspects are in the magic box researching Glory. the only ones out of place are Joyce, Dawn & Spike. the latter much to Xander & Riley’s dislike.

 

"What's the bleached wonder doing here?" Xander’s irritation clear in his voice.

 

Always one to follow, Riley puts his two cents in. "That's what I'd like to know."

 

Spike rolls his Eyes and goes to respond but is interrupted by Buffy. "He's here because I invited him." She's annoyed that instead of helping research all their doing is complaining.

 

"Why?" Riley & Xander ask simultaneously.

 

"Because we happen to be fighting a hell-god, and besides me, Spike is the only one strong enough to fight her. Or have you two already forgotten, that the last time I faced her I lost."

 

Xander’s silent after that, but it's clear he's still unhappy about Spike's presence. Riley on the other hand doesn't know when to stop.

 

"You still don't need that bloodsuckers help, I'm here." Jealousy clear to anyone paying attention.

 

"And what are you gonna do against the hell-god that beat my sister? who happens to be the slayer, in case you've forgot." Dawn angrily interrupts. 'I've never liked Riley, I have no idea what my sister sees in him.'

 

"That's not the point." Riley’s completely ignoring a valid question. 'Like dawn knows anything, she's just a kid, her opinion in this doesn't matter.'

 

"Then pray what is?" Giles slams the book he’s reading closed. "Because aside from complaining, you and Xander are not helping at all. now I am in no means Spike's biggest fan. but at least he's helping research, and not acting like a five year old." his growing dislike towards Riley for refusing to acknowledge what's happening right in front of his face is mounting. when buffy started dating that oaf, he decided to give him the benefit of doubt. its times like this he regrets doing so.

 

Xander being Snapped at due to not helping decides to grab a book. Riley doesn't however, because he's not liking that he's being shouted at instead of Spike. "Because he's evil and probably working with Glory, and your all to stupid to see it."

 

Spike finally loses his temper, "Think whatever you like soldier boy, it's not like I care about your bloody opinion!" He looks at him with cold eyes. "And while I'm on the subject, your an idiot if you think humans can't be as evil if not more than demons." 'its constantly pissing him off that the sodding white hats believe that bollocks.'

 

Riley not believing a word Spike just said, smugly smiles. "Yeah? Well I wish I could see what real human evil looked like."

 

Xander wanting one up on Spike as well follows Suit. "Yeah so do I."

 

A puff of smoke reveals an unknown demon with an evil grin. "Wish Granted." Then it disappears in another puff of smoke.

 

Outside the magic box the sky turns black, and green lightning bolts strike the ground all-over Town. Spike Snaps out "What The Fuck did you pricks just do?" as he runs to the front of the shop, closely followed by everyone else.

 

Whatever’s happening has his demon shaking with dread, this was definitely not a good sign. "I don't know who's coming, but they have my demon terrified, That's never happened before." Spike's fear clear in his voice.

 

Tara flinch’s at the feeling the storms giving off. "I c-c-can f-f-f-feel, p-pure d-d-darkness a-and e-e-evil." her voice shaking. 'I've never felt darkness like this and i don’t like it.'

 

Anya’s screeching voice interrupted the silence. "XANDER HOW COULD YOU??!!"

 

Xander looks baffled. "What did I do?" Everyone except Riley looks at him like He's just grew a second head.

 

"What did you do? WHAT DID YOU DO??!! you made a wish you bloody pillock." Giles Snapped shaking with rage at Riley & Xander’s stupidity.

 

Xander looks offended, his body has a defensive stance. "Riley made the wish not me."

 

"But you agreed Xander. Riley’s an idiot so I expect him to be stupid, not you." Anya shakes her head.

 

Riley spins and glares at her. "Don't call me stupid. You're all obviously overreacting, there's no such thing as a pure evil human." 'I can't believe how stupid they are.' "It's obviously a demon to have this reaction, Spike's playing you all."

 

Buffy huffs, "How’s Spike playing us Riley? you and Xander made the wish." 'I can't believe he’s trying to shift the blame onto Spike. what makes it worse if I wasn't here and didn't witness it happen, I would have believed him. what else has he probably lied about or shifted the blame to someone else over?'

 

"He said 'who' not 'what' to explain whatever’s causing the feeling he's having. he's jumping onto this evil human thing and you're all listening to it."

 

"If evil humans didn't exist, then the wish wouldn't have worked." Anya said slowly as if explaining it to a child.

 

No-one knew how to respond to that so they stood in stunned silence and watched outside.

 

******

 

Hyperion Hotel, Los Angeles, California

 

Doyle runs through the Hyperion’s front doors with Lorne not far behind panting and out of breath. Doyle’s the first to recover. "I had a vision, somethings going on in Sunnydale."

 

Everyone turns to acknowledge him, angel walks over. "What's happening?"

 

Lornes now standing at the top of the stairs looking out the window. “Look out the window angelcakes, at the sky towards Sunnydale, even I can't explain this." Everyone runs up and stops dead in shock, the sky in the direction of the town is black with green lightning. What's even stranger its only over Sunnydale.

 

To angels complete shock his demon recoiled in fear at the sight. "Whatever’s happened it's serious. My demons terrified and that's never happened."

 

everyone digested this information, Wesley casts a look to angel. "What do you suppose we do?"

 

Angel thinks for a minute. "Time to gather the team, we're going to Sunnydale. We'll have to take Darla and Lindsey with us, we can't risk Wolfram & Hart won't attack why we're gone."

 

"I agree, when do we leave."

 

"Couple of days, we need all the help we can get. I'm going to contact Kate, we need Faith."

 

The grim silence was interrupted by Cordelia. "Are you completely insane. Why the hell would we need a psycho slayer?"

 

Angel turns to Cordelia. "Believe me, if i didn't think we needed her I'd let her pay for her crimes. But as I said my demons terrified, and I wasn't joking when I said that's never happened before."

 

Cordelia looks out the window then back to angel. "This is serious isn't it." he nods "Well, do what you need to do." Angel smiles and turns to see Darla, Lindsey & Fred coming from the upper floor and joining them at the window.

 

Darla rolls her eye's. "Well, my first fight on the side of good, how exciting." sarcasm pouring off every word.

 

Lindsey chuckles, "You're not the only one."

 

Angel sighs, "I don't really think you have much choice. Whatever we're fighting this time, I don't think it cares what side you’re on." Silence fills the hotel. "Get your stuff ready, we leave in a couple of days." He turns and goes down the stairs to the phone, time to call Kate.

 

******

 

Somewhere Near Sunnydale, California

 

Ethan driving a stolen car chuckles to himself about how easy it was to escape the human holding facility, the initiative had setup not far outside Sunnydale.

 

He heard about the abomination they created, he really didn't understand their plan. The idiots obviously had no knowledge of the supernatural. Always trying to think of a scientific explanation.

 

The fools, with them not believing magic is real, it was rather easy to use it to escape. That was then though, travelling across the states causing chaos is all well and good. Although it's much better messing with ripper and his band of do-gooders.

 

Ethan captures a glimpse of the sky and pulls over. after he exits the car, he climbs a small hill. Sunnydale can be seen in the distance, but what has his attention is the sky above.

 

"Well Ripper, what a lovely mess you've gotten yourself into this time. I can feel the chaos possibilities from here." He laughs to himself and goes back to the car, time to continue on to see ripper.

 

******

 

On Route To Sunnydale, California

 

Oz after getting his van out of storage, drives towards Sunnydale, he knows someone Dangerous is coming. He's not sure why but his wolf seems to think he needs to help. Luckily the initiatives no longer there, so that's a plus, but it's gonna be awkward.

 

He wasn't exactly truthful about all the reasons he left, Yes controlling the wolf was a big issue. The initiative another, but the one he kept to himself was the groups hatred for anything not human.

 

'like I told willow, the wolf's inside me all the time. no matter how much they want to pretend it's only 3 days of the month. the longer I stayed the more I feared I'd eventually be the target of their bigotry and hatred. I don't think they'd have done it on purpose, but that's what makes it worse, the fact their own Ego and self-worth is more important. Its hard to think about, I can only hope that during my time away they've grown.'

 

Seeing the sky, far in the distance only solidified the belief I'm needed. 'I don't understand why, but I have a feeling this fight will change everything.'

 

******

 

Houston, Texas

 

Lawson feeling the bloodline distress signal. Specifically, from his sire and Spike, made him curious enough to make plans to travel, to California to find out what's happening. Spike helped after he was turned, so it's time to return the favour.

 

****** 

 

Near The Bronze, Sunnydale, California

 

In an alleyway near the bronze, a green portal opens, a man clearly over 6ft with an open long black coat, reaching the backs of his knees steps out. He doesn't seem the least bit bothered that he's just exited a portal. This proves him knowledgeable of the supernatural world. This also means its not the first time he's done so. He's wearing what appears to be black expensive looking boots, black pants and a black silk shirt, with the top few buttons undone. The hair at the sides and back of his head, cut short and black in colour. The hair at the top of his head appears longer, bright blonde and combed over.

 

He’s also strikingly handsome, seems to ooze confidence and knowledge, along with a deep-seated, powerful and ancient darkness that seems infused with his very being. The head of a snake tattoo can be seen on the right side of his neck. the tattoos eyes, green in colour, match his perfectly, with a coldness within them, that gives off the appearance of someone who's not to be messed with.

 

"Now, where the fuck am I?" His deep British voice reverberating off the alley walls. Behind him the portal closes, the sky instantly reverting back to normal.

 

"Oh, That's fucking smashing that is, now how am I supposed to get home?" The irritation seems to deepen his voice more. "Well, time to see what fucked up town I landed in. I'm really starting to hate bloody portals, especially if I didn't open the bastards." He can feel four set's of eyes watching, but at the moment couldn't care less.

 

After looking around he begins to walk down the alley. someone walking the opposite direction bumps into him.

 

"Watch where your going." The boy snarls and proceeds to walk past him. only for the man to grab his hair and yank him back.

 

"I'd Watch that mouth of yours, it's definitely a trouble causer."

 

"Get the fuck off me." The boy angrily shouts.

 

"tsk, tsk, tsk, can't say I didn't warn you." He precedes to break both of the boy's legs. the scream that tore from his throat went ignored. after landing on the ground the boy proceeds to crawl away. only to be followed by the man at a leisurely pace.

 

It was then made plainly obvious that the man was a warlock of sorts. especially after he makes a wheelchair appear from nowhere. the man then sits in it, lights up a cigarette then wheel's himself along beside the boy. he then reaches down and searched the boy's coat pockets and pulls out his wallet.

 

"Hey, give that back." The boy said with pain in his voice.

 

the man reaches down and squeezes on one of his broken legs. After the boy's scream dies down he looks at him. "How's about no? I mean what goods it gonna do you anyway. you're not getting out of this alley alive."

 

At his fearful whimper the man laughed a deep evil laugh. The boy instantly regretted bumping into him.

 

the man then took a Bowie knife out of a holster at the bottom of his leg, then probably using magic gets a blow torch from out of nowhere and started heating up the blade. The boy's pleas to 'stop' and his mantra of 'I'm sorry' fell on deaf ears. after the blade was heated enough that it glowed bright orange, he stood up then walks over to the boy, grabs his right leg and begins cutting it off at the knee. The heated blade cauterizes the stub.

 

As he throws the severed limb in a nearby open dumpster. The boy tries again to crawl away much to his annoyance. "You inconsiderate little prick! Can't you see I'm currently cutting off your limbs? Or at least trying to, but it's a bit difficult when you won't hold the fuck still."

 

He proceeds to stamp on the boys right arm, then left shattering the bones. "OH, IM SORRY." He exclaims with mock shock laced with clear sarcasm. "I sometimes forget my own strength. Nevertheless I can continue with my fun."

 

After reheating the blade he grabs the boys left leg and repeats his earlier action. The boys constant crying and repeated 'I'm sorrys' start to get on his nerves.

 

"If you keep saying sorry I'm going to cut your fucking lips off. If you haven't realised by now that I'm not letting you live, you're as thick as pig shit."

 

He then opens the wallet he took. "Warren mears? pointless name now, don't you agree legless?" He then reheats the blade once again.

 

"Please, oh god, please stop." Warren's sobbing words anger him.

 

He kicks him square in the jaw, just enough to shatter it. "Count yourself lucky, I didn't make use of my full strength. You'd be dead if I did." Muffled cries follow this statement.

 

He crouches near Warren's head. Stubbing his cigarette out in his eye. "Thank Satan, you're definitely a loud mouthed little wanker. Seeing as no-ones come running to the sound of your screams, especially with it being daylight. this means one of two things. Either nobody else gives a fuck, or screaming’s heard on a regular basis here. And given our little shows being witnessed by two salivating bloodsuckers, I'm going to have to go with the latter."

 

He reheats his cooling blade, Warren's whimpers cause him to look at him. At the mask of terror on Warrens face, he begins to chuckle. "What? Did you really think I was done with you? Sorry to piss on your cornflakes. But alas, no I'm not done with you yet."

 

He then grabs Warren's left arm and begins cutting it off at the elbow. After throwing the severed arm the dumpster, he looks back at him. "See that? Didn't even have to move. If there was an Olympic sport for throwing severed limbs, I'd take gold. The big question probably going through you're head right now is, 'when will he stop? oh god, when?' To answer your question. When you're nothing but a head, torso and stumps." He stands up go's round to Warren's right side, crouches again and repeats the earlier action with his right arm.

 

He turns to look at a nearby shadowed doorway. "You chaps enjoy the show? Never mind, wake up the rest of your nest, I'd like a word." The two sets of Amber eyes watching from the shadows, turned and disappeared.

 

He stands, grabs Warren by the shirt, picks him up then proceeds to enter the run down building. As he enters multiple vampires are coming into the main room. This continues until there is around 50 or so stood watching him.

 

Multiple emotions play out across their faces, ranging from curiosity, trepidation, fear, worry and intrigue. He throws Warren at their feet. "Consider it a gift, do what you please with the little wanker. But don't put him out of his misery to fast. The cheeky little shit needs to know his place. If you ask me being used as a sex slave, or a stubby little blood bank to you bloodsuckers might do just that. Now that's out of the way, by a show of hands, who's wondering what I'm doing here?"

 

Due to fear at the feelings coming from him, None of the vamps raise their hand. "Now, Now, No need to be shy, I know you're curious. So show of hands?" All of them slowly raise them. "Excellent! The reason is I'm your new Master."

 

One of the vamps, suddenly grow balls at this. "No fucking way am I working for a human, you mus....." the rest of his complaint died, as the man Snapped his fingers and the vamp turned to dust. The others looked on in horrified shock.

 

"Anymore objections?" All the vamps shake their heads. "Good, I'm thrilled you see it my way. Now, what's this shithole of a town called?"

 

"Sunnydale, Master." One of the vamps respond. 

 

"And where the fuck,  in Satan's sandbox is Sunnydale located?" His anger mounting, not only is he not in his home universe. But he's in a town that sounds like it's from a child's TV show.

 

Multiple vamps glance each other, wondering who's going take the brunt of his anger.  One who resembles one of the members of Hanson steps forward "California, Master."

 

"You've got to be kidding?" They all shake their heads. "Bloody Brilliant! Not only do I appear in this fucked up town. It also happens to be in another bloody country. I'm off, you lot find me after dark, we've got shit to do.

 

"Yes Master." They all said simultaneously.

 

He stopped at the door and turned back, points to the vampire who addressed him earlier. "You! What's you're name?"

 

The vampire in question steps forward. "Bob, Master"

 

"Not Anymore Fucking More It's Not! Who the fuck named you that bollocks? No, don't tell me, it's irrelevant now. Listen here you ponce, you're now called Hanson, you reminded of one of those cunts, can't for the bloody life of me remember which one though." He turns and carries on to the exit.

 

He walks out the building and down the alley, disappearing round the corner when he reaches the end.

 

Andrew and Jonathan watched everything in horror. After seeing him leave the alley, they turned back to the window. Upon seeing a limbless Warren being kicked repeatedly, hearing the cruel words thrown at him. then seeing multiple vamps undoing theirs and what's left of Warren's pants, jumped off the box they watched from.

 

"We need to find buffy, she needs to know about that guy." Andrew just nods along. "I've got a bad feeling about him." They sprinted out the alley, in search of the slayer to inform her of this new threat.

 

******

 

Rack’s Place, Sunnydale, California

 

Racks in the middle of seeing to one of his regulars, he hears screaming from his waiting room. Before he can investigate however, the door bursts open, followed by a man in black clothes, black hair with blonde on the top. Racks practically salivating at the power pouring off him. Before rack can utter a word he speaks.

 

"Imagine my surprise, when walking through this cesspool of a town. I happened upon a cloaked up, magic junkies den." He’s looking at rack with revulsion on his face. "You scruffy fuckers get worse."

 

As the girl who was in the room tries to flee. He reaches out a hand, grabs her by the throat and Snaps her neck. All while never taking his eyes off rack. "that's better, no interruptions. Now, Listen here you magic juice junkie, I want to know how I got here. If you can't tell me point me to someone who can."

 

"I don't know who you think you are, but you have no idea who you're messing with." Racks look and voice held belief of his superior power.

 

The man rolls his Eyes clearly board and unimpressed. "Another one, you have no idea how many times I've heard that bollocks before. And newsflash for those struggling to keep up." He looks pointedly at rack. "I'm still here."

 

"Not for much longer." Racks annoyed at the man’s lack of fear. "You've got a big ego, let's see what we can do about that." He fires a spell at him and to his shock it does nothing. He fires multiple more with the same result. The man's looking very amused at his attempts. Eventually the man grows bored and with a flick of his wrist, rack flies across the room, collides heavily with the wall and finds himself pinned.

 

"That's the thing about having an ego, you've gotta be able to live up to it. Which obviously you can't. You know the saying, there's always someone bigger and better than you. Well congratulations you've met me and no, I Don't have time for autographs."

 

He approaches the pinned rack. "Now, back to my earlier request, before you tried to show me the bollocks you don't have. If you can't tell me how I got here. Point me to someone who can."

 

"W-who are you?" Rack stammered due to fear.

 

"You're worst nightmare. My name however is irrelevant, being you won't be alive to remember it." He pulls out a knife, Racks eyes widen with fear.

 

"Wait! Willie's! It's a bar, the demons there don't know when to shut up. If anyone knows anything it'll be willy." He breaths a sigh of relief and closes his eyes when the man lowers the knife, only to open them wide with shock, choking on his own blood as the man slashes his throat.

 

"Thanks, but you've still got to die. I need to show this willy bloke who sent me to him. Since I can't be arsed to get a camera, I'll just take you're head." As the last of Racks life fades away, he drops to the floor.

 

The man crouches down, when the life leaves Racks eyes, he proceeds to cut through his throat. After he's finished, he holds up his head by the hair.

 

He stands, turns and walks out the room the head, swinging in his grasp.

 

****** 

 

Willie’s Bar, Sunnydale, California

 

The patrons at Willie’s are enjoying a drink. Clem comes out the back. "Hey willy, the back rooms all set up for tonight. All we're missing’s the kittens."

 

"That's great Clem, don't worry the kittens will be here in time for the game tonight."

 

"Good, Spike should be coming along as well."

 

"As long as he doesn't destroy my bar again that's fine. It's costing me an arm and a leg to keep replacing the furniture."

 

"Don't worry, I'll talk to him about it later."

 

Before willy can respond the doors to the bar bang open. Everyone turns to look, fearing it's the slayer, only to see a man dressed in all black, a heads hanging from his hand by the hair. He approaches the bar. "You must be willy, this prick." He puts the head on the bar. "Seemed to think you can help me."

 

Willy looks at the head in shock. "That's rack!" Multiple gasps are heard round the bar.

 

"Don't happen to care mate. What I want to know is how the fuck I got here."

 

"What do you mean?"

 

"What I mean for those of you lacking brain power, one minute I was in my home universe and the next I'm stepping out a portal. I know this town's a shithole but surely someone knows something."

 

"The only thing out of place recently was the sky." 

 

Before the man can respond he's interrupted by a demon wanting a drink. "Hey willy, fuck the meatbag, I want a drink."

 

Willy goes to talk but the man holds a hand up signalling to stay quiet. He raises an eyebrow at the demon, uses one finger to slowly push an empty glass in front of him. Everyone's watching wondering what's going to happen next.

 

The demon looks at the empty glass then to the man. "You can't have been listening meatbag, I asked for a drink. This glass is empty." As if waiting for that specific line, the man grabs the demon by the back of his head. Slams it down on the glass shattering it. It was done with such speed and force that pieces impaled his brain killing him instantly.

 

"Not anymore, it's not." He let's go of the corpse and it falls to the ground. "Now where was I, before being so rudely interrupted. Ah yes, the light show you're referring to signalled my arrival."

 

More gasps sound round the bar, that seems to explain the power and darkness they can feel coming off him in waves.

 

"No offence, but you're human, how are you giving off that much power?"

 

"Simple, in my home universe evil has a far bigger presence. Evil outweighs the good, due to this there's apocalyptic events practically every week." He chuckles. "What's funny about this is because the bad guys at home can't stand each other. We usually stop each others apocalyptic activities Simply to piss each other off. For example I don't want someone Destroying the earth when I, can just as easily do it. Now, from centuries of that we adapted, the stronger an enemy became, the stronger the rest of us became. However the downside is it also works for the good guys, meaning we have some of the strongest out there."

 

"Wow, amazing, you must have some powerful minions."

 

"Yes! I bloody well do, but with me being stuck here I can't get them. So do you know how, the fuck I got here?"

 

"I'm sorry, I can't help you, even we don't know what happened."

 

"Then, what use are you?" Before anyone could react, he pulled out a knife and stuck it through willy's skull. After removing the blade the corpse dropped to the floor. He turned just in time to see a loose skinned demon run out the bar.

 

"You just killed willy!" A blue skinned demon screeched.

 

"Yes! I did! Now which of you fuckers is next."

 

All the demon stood up and approached him menacingly. "All of us."

 

"Right, let's see what you pussys are made of." Two Fyarls approached, he flipped over their heads wrapped his arms around their throats, on his downward de-cent, the heel of his boot smashed down against the top of another demons head killing it.

 

The Fyarls begin falling backwards, before his feet touched the ground he Snapped both necks in sync. As his feet touched the floor so did two hulking corpses. He approaches the rest with an evil smirk on his face. "Now, let's finish this." Screams and dark laughter filled the bar.

 

 ******

 

Outside Willie’s Bar, Sunnydale, California

 

Clem rushed out of Willie's and hid across the street. 'I can't believe it, that guy killed willy. Oh god, willy's dead, I have to tell Spike, he knows the slayer, she can stop him, I hope.'

 

Screams and dark laughter brought Clem out his thoughts. He looked towards the bar, when the screams died down the man came out carrying a Molotov made from a rag and a bottle of spirits. After lighting it he threw it back inside, the entire place goes up in flames. Clem takes off in search of Spike, not realising he's being followed.

 

 ******

 

Downtown, Sunnydale, California

 

Andrew & Jonathan still searching for buffy collide with Clem. Andrew knows this species of demons friendly. "Have you seen the slayer, we need her help."

 

"No sorry, I'm looking for Spike. some guy dressed in black just Destroyed willy's."

 

Jonathan goes rigid, "I think its the same guy you're talking about that tortured our friend."

 

Andrew, looks back and forth between them. “Well it seems we're talking about the same guy. we should find buffy together.” Nods of agreement and the three continue on "We’ve looked everywhere for her except the magic box."

 

Jonathan rolls his Eyes, "Yeah I can't believe we never checked there first." they walk on towards the shop.

 

Unbeknownst to them the man watched the entire thing. "Smashing! this town has a slayer, which probably means it has a Hellmouth." His glee at the possibilities is obvious. 'Maybe i can cause some serious damage here after all.' 

 

"I can't believe I didn't figure it out before now though." He takes of after the three companions. "All I have to do is deal with a little girl. Who gets ordered around by a bunch of old men with an ego complex." he laughs "Wouldn't be the first time." As he strolls out of sight.

 

April searching for Warren hears the man and sees him following the others from before. she decides to follow along as well.

 

******

 

Magic Box, Sunnydale, California,

 

in the magic box the silence was interrupted awhile ago, with constant arguments over who's fault it actually was. "ENOUGH" Joyce bellowed "instead of playing the blame game. If you were paying attention the sky went back to normal awhile ago. Now I'm not the expert on the supernatural, so that either means whoever was coming didn't get here. that's the answer I'm hoping for. Or it means whoever it is has arrived and I hope to god they haven't."

 

Riley not happy about them believing its human. "I keep telling you people it's not human, whatever’s coming is a demon." 'Sure i know bad humans have existed in the past but the belief of evil one's is ridiculous.'

 

Giles hears enough, "Its quite clear to myself and everyone else, that you and Xander are in Denial, you're obviously refusing to accept the information granted to you, all because you two don't want to feel responsible for another enemy we must face on top of glory." He wonders to himself if those two have always been like that and if he just refused to see it.

 

Willow looks baffled, "I agree with you Giles, but aren't evil humans a bit far fetched. I mean the councils always said there's no such thing." 

 

Giles looks at her in disbelief. "I'd like you to explain where you got that information. because it sure as hell wasn't bloody me. I know the council can be complete wankers at times. But I guarantee they haven't told you that either."

 

Xander interrupts "but G-Man, you told us the soul makes you good." his confusion clear.

 

"I've told you on multiple occasions not to call me that." Takes a relaxing breath "And no. I told you the soul can make you good, I never once said it was a guarantee." 'it's official they only hear what they want to hear and bugger everything else.'

 

Buffy swallows, not liking what she's hearing. "You never said anything to make us believe humans could be evil Giles." She's not happy. this has the potential to destroy her world view.

 

Giles sarcastically states. "Oh forgive me. with people like Hitler in the world, I didn't see the advantages of pointing out the painfully obvious. You learned about his atrocities in school for god sake. But let me guess, you conveniently forgot everything you were taught and pretended it never happened, so it wouldn't destroy your world view." Xander and buffy looked down ashamed while willow went pale, Spike looked at Giles with newfound respect.

 

willow looks hurt by his words. "No obviously not, hello, Jewish! But after learning about demons and magic and stuff, I always thought he might have been possessed."

 

Giles shakes his head. "No, I'm sorry willow, but he was not possessed. He did all that of his own free will and misguided beliefs." Even though willows thoughts had been wrong there was a reason for her ignorance. The other two however "and you two, what's you're reason." He’s looking pointedly at Xander and buffy,  they can't seem to think of anything to say.

 

Buffy looks up, "I just find it easier to believe human good, demon bad." Spike's snort and Dawn's scoff go ignored. "Because if I question that, then I question everything." Her heads hurting she doesn't like having to question her beliefs. especially because of a stupid wish Xander and Riley made.

 

"Be that as it may buffy, but that belief will get you killed. With you believing all humans are good. Your bound to trust them when they could easily be working for the enemy." 'its true, I am blind to what's going on around me. I didn't see the danger my slayer was putting herself in. If anything comes out of this Confrontation with this new threat, at least let that belief be altered.'

 

the magic box door suddenly flew open followed by two people and a demon. Buffy and Spike look towards the door.

 

"Clem?" "Jonathan?" 

 

"Spike! willy's dead, his bars Destroyed."

 

Spike froze completely, eyes widening. "WHAT?"

 

Giles, Dawn, Joyce, Willow, Tara, Anya and Xander, all gasp at the news.

 

Buffy looks stunned, "Willy? Dead? How?"

 

Jonathan pulls Andrew aside to wait their turn about describing today's events.

 

"I was setting up the back room for tonight's poker game. I went out to the front to speak with willy, after a little chat, the front doors bang open. In walks this British guy who looks like someone not to be messed with, darkness & power practically pouring off him in waves. He was even carrying Racks head."

 

"Wait! This guy killed rack as well? Bloody Buggering Fuck!"

 

Buffy’s completely lost, "Spike? Who's rack?"

 

"Warlock, nasty type, pretty bloody powerful. His place is well known among us not normal folk."

 

"Yes, he's also very old I remember him from my demon days. Not to be trusted, especially if you don't want a knife in you're back. His place is the equivalent to a smack house for magic abusers. This mystery man has to be very strong, dangerous & powerful. Especially to take out someone like rack."

 

Buffy listened with shock to Spike’s explanation, which turned to disgust halfway through Anya’s speech, specifically the 'smack house' part. Buy the end however she was seeing the seriousness of the situation. She turns back to Clem. "What happened next?"

 

"The guy walks over to the bar puts the head down, tells willy he told him to come here. Starts asking some questions about how he got here. Said the light show in the sky signaled his arrival."

 

"bloody hell! So it's official." Spike points at Riley & Xander. "You two are idiots."

 

Riley, not liking being spoken to like that by anyone, especially not Spike. "Watch it hostile seventeen."

 

Xander, acknowledges at least to himself, he holds some of the blame in this. But he'd be dammed if he lets Spike point it out. "Why's that captain peroxide?"

 

Spike looks at them like their insane. "Because, you're the one's responsible for this psychopaths appearance. You and that bloody wish."

 

Clem, Jonathan and Andrew look at the two in anger and disgust.

 

Giles shooting the two not friendly looks as well turns back to Clem. "Please, what can you tell us about this man?"

 

"The guy was definitely human. This shocked us all, especially with the vibes coming off him."

 

"What do you mean by the 'vibes'?" 

 

"I've come across evil humans before but I've never felt evil to that extent."

 

"You mean off a human?" 

 

"No. off anything."

 

Dread starts filling most of those occupied at the magic box, except for Riley and Xander who still refuse to believe it.

 

Spike, looking at the ground, raises his eyes to clem. "okay. what else happened at Willie's?"

 

"Willy asks him why he's so powerful, with him being human. He then starts talking about his home universe, to explain it."

 

Giles's interests definitely piqued, he grabs a notebook. "I'm struggling to see how his universe is a key factor. In all my years as a watcher, even with my knowledge of the supernatural. I can't fathom how that would effect his powers. Especially, if its as you say and you've never felt evil like it. What was his explanation?"

 

"That evil outweighs the good, they basically have an apocalypse every week. The bad guys apparently can't stand the sight of each other. To piss each other off, they stop each others world domination plans. With this happening for centuries they adapted or so he says, this also happened to the good guys in his world as well."

 

Spike looks shocked, then thoughtful. 'No, it can't be. But if it is, God help us all.' He shakes his head to clear his thoughts and focuses back on the conversation.

 

Giles looked astounded at the news. His expression changed to one of fear however, when the implications of what they were facing sank in. "This is very bad news, we're unprepared for an enemy of this magnitude."

 

Buffy looked confident, "Don't worry Giles, we'll stop him, just like we do everything else."

 

Giles looks at her worried, "That's easier said than done buffy. If I'm correct, he's going to be a lot more dangerous than the threats we're used to."

 

Xander still not understanding the problem, raises his hand. "How? If he's human that should make him easier, not harder, plus the things we've been through. This should be a piece of cake."

 

Spike slams his hand on the table. "No Whelp! It won't, how the hell have you survived this long?"

 

"Shut up bloodbreath, you know nothing."

 

Giles huffs, "Oh For Heavens Sake! He knows a down sight more than you, obviously. Spike seems to be getting the dangerous implications of this matter. Which you certainly appear not to be able to understand."

 

Buffy puts a calming hand on Giles shoulder. "Okay, okay, you might have to Simplify it Giles. Explain the problem in a way all of us can understand."

 

Giles takes a calming breath. "The problem is the enemies we're used to facing, aren't this serious. We usually have months to figure out how to stop them. This new enemy however we do not, especially if his universe is as bad as its believed to be." At the confused look on all except Spike, Jonathan and Clem, he sighs. "What I mean by this is simple, in his own world evil forces aren't just at war with the good. But each other as well, meaning there is constant conflict, with him not being used to this world. Its safe to assume that he will still react like he would back home, meaning we probably have at least a week before he tries to end the world."

 

Understanding and panic appear on pretty much all their faces. Buffy tries to calm herself. "Okay, Clem, we're on a time-limit here. what else happened?"

 

"Well, after willy still couldn't answer his question, the guy said 'then, what use are you?' Pulled a knife out faster then anyone could blink. Then stabbed him through the top of his head. I ran after that, got outside and hid across the street, after about five minutes, I hear screams and dark laughter coming from inside. After the screaming stopped he came out, Molotov in hand lit it then threw it back inside. The whole place went up."

 

Silence filled the magic box as everyone digested the information, everyone has different reactions, Riley though is still in Denial about it. "How exactly, is this 'Human' evil again? from what we've just heard. He's killed a dangerous warlock and destroyed a local demon hangout. We should be thanking him."

 

Yells of outrage filled the store, all with different responses, Giles whips off his glasses outraged.  "Listen here you pillock! Just because this mystery man, killed demons does not make him good. Even the council knows there are such things as Harmless demons. Furthermore I'm sure you're not as simple minded, to believe that because their both evil it means their on the same side?"

 

"I don't think it's simple minded, to come to a logical conclusion." 'They've just heard it themselves, he has to be a good guy. In my experience evil doesn't kill each other, Hostile seventeen doesn't count. He can't kill humans so he has no choice.'

 

A fuming buffy holds up her hand to stop anyone else responding. "I can't believe you! He killed willy, who in case you forgot is human. We'll talk later, at the moment you're making a judgement call without all the facts. I'm usually the one to jump the gun but this time I hear how serious this is." She turns from Riley. "Clem? Can you tell us anymore?"

 

"Not much, after he torched Willie's I left, I wanted to find Spike. He knew you and could pass the information along. On the way here I bumped into these two." He points towards Andrew & Jonathan. "They we're looking for you, apparently they've seen the same guy as me. He tortured they're friend." 

 

Everyone turned to the two in question. buffy looks sympathetic "OK. Jonathan and, who are you?"

 

"Andrew."

 

at everyone's blank look Jonathan fills in. “He's tuckers brother." "ohhh." was the response from pretty much all of them.

 

"So, Jonathan, Andrew, what have you got to tell me?" Jonathan then tells her about what happened to Warren and about the portal the man came through. As well as What happened with the vampires, when he finished everyone was left feeling sick to their stomachs including Spike.

 

Giles raises a hand, "You say you seen this man exit a green portal?" They nod "is there anything else you noticed?" 

 

"Yeah, the second the portal closed the sky went back to normal."

 

Giles sighs "Then it's safe to say, this is the same man that attacked Willie's"

 

Dawn pipes up, "what did he look like?"

 

Clem, Andrew & Jonathan proceed to describe him, at Spike's more pale than usual look, Buffy’s concerned. "Spike? What's wrong?"

 

This brings everyone’s attention to him. "Did this guy, by any chance, have a tattoo of a snake on his neck?" At the three nods Spike began to tremble. "noo....it..can't..be." his voice laced with terror, he looks at Riley and Xander. "You've killed us all." Spike's obvious fear starts to effect all of them.

 

Giles figures out Spike knows the man. "Spike? Who is he?" 

 

Spike looks at him, "Salazar." The bell signalling the door dinged. followed by a deep voice that made Spike's eyes fill with horror.

 

"Well, Well, Well, my reputation proceeds me." Salazar’s voice fills the shop. everyone spins to face him, his eyes zero in on Spike. "What I'd like to know, is how, the bleached blood fiend knows me?" Spike's frozen in terror, He chuckles "Well, I broke the vampire, didn't even need to lift a fucking finger."

 

He looks over the rest clearly unimpressed. "So, you're the local goody goods." An evil laugh " I've seen more intimidating, potential warriors in a school for the special needs."

 

Riley’s clearly offended and points at buffy.” Well she’s The Slayer and I have military training."

 

Salazar looks at her with clear amusement shining in his green eyes. "So, you're the slayer. Thanks to shit stain over there." jerks his thumb towards Riley "I don't have to waste my time figuring out who is." The annoyed look buffy shoots Riley, causes him to laugh. "Not really much of a problem though. Someone with the ability to use a gun and a girl that carries pointy sticks." He looks at them with mock fear. "Absolutely, terrifying." His Voice full of sarcasm. the looks of outrage on buffy and Rileys faces were clear to all.

 

Giles annoyed on behalf of his Slayer. "I can assure you she's more than just a girl."

 

Salazar looks at Giles and raises an eyebrow. "No shit Sherlock. Lucky your here to clear up the confusion and point out the obvious." Giles clearly angry goes to respond, but he carries on. "Anyway I've killed Slayers before." dramatic pause "And let me tell you something blondie." He pins her with his gaze. "You slayers ain't fuck all special." He laughs as Riley charges him. he grabs him by the arm, twists it and with a resounding crack his bone Snaps. he angles it so he’s knelt on the floor his broken arm still in Salazar’s grasp.

 

He looks down at him like he's stupid. "Isn't that sweet, the soldier coming to the lady's defence. Sorry to burst you're delusional bubble, but I'm pretty sure the bird can defend herself." His eyes show complete disgust. "You, on the other hand, not so much. It's pretty obvious you've got no brain cells, because answer me this, what type of ego driven retard. chooses to attack someone, whose just told you, he's killed slayers?"

 

Buffy steps forward to help. He casts a sidelong glance in her direction. "Uh, uh, uh, I wouldn't do that if I was you." Buffy stops dead, when she sees he's slowly swinging a grenade, by the pin with his finger. "Good girl. I'm sure you don't want to be washing soldier out you're hair for the next few weeks."

 

He turns his attention to Giles. "You watchers have these bints trained rather well. They follow commands just like dogs. Sit, stay, kill, do you feed them pedigree?"

 

He turns his attention back on his captive, not even waiting for a response. "Well pussy boy it's been fun, but places to go, people to kill, you know how it is." He kicks Riley in his side as he releases his arm, causing him to slide across the floor. The action takes Buffy’s legs out from under her, making her hit the table head first. "10 points! Until next time." He then walks out the shop laughing.

 

As Giles helps buffy off the floor to clean the cut on her head. Spike's no longer frozen in terror. "I need to make a phone call watcher."

 

"Who do you need to call?"

 

Spike looks him dead in the eyes. "The only people who know how to stop him." Everyone looks at him in shock as he walks over to the phone.

 

April watched the entire thing through the window, these people maybe able to help her.

Notes:

Thoughts? Hope you find this first chapter enjoyable. I'm writing this on my phone, so apologies on any spelling mistake.

Chapter 2: Chapter 2 - Call For Help

Notes:

Characters updated with this chapter.

Magic Box, Sunnydale, California

 

As Spike walks to the phone and Giles is in the process of cleaning Buffy’s head wound. Xander helps Riley to a nearby chair, he’s refusing to go to the hospital so Xander made him a makeshift sling. He’s to suspicious of how Spike knows Salazar to go anywhere. Something he has no problem voicing.

 

“I knew you couldn’t be trusted Spike!”

 

Spike spins to face him, fists clenching and nostrils flaring. “Why’s that cardboard? What in the bloody fuck have I done that makes you point you’re sodding finger at me?” ‘The wankers at it again, pushing the blame off on some fucker else.’

 

Riley narrows his eyes at him. “You knew that guys name was Salazar. Care to explain how?” ‘its obviously Spike’s doing, he’s playing everyone, he’s in league with this new bad guy, that’s the only explanation.’

 

Everyone looks at Spike, some curious, others suspicious.

 

Jonathan comes to Spike’s defence. “Wait hang on before you start pointing more fingers. Am I the only one who remembers that Salazar didn’t know Spike? So it’s not some obvious conspiracy. I heard what Spike said earlier, you and Xander wished that guy here. So all you’re doing now is trying to get everyone’s attention off of you and onto him.”

 

Xander and Riley glare at Jonathan while everyone else is looking shocked. Spike because he was just defended and the others at Jonathan’s sudden bravery.

 

The sound of the shop door opening, causes everyone’s attention to snap to it. All fearing Salazar’s returned, only to stare curiously at a woman wearing a pink flowery dress and a beaming smile.

 

She looks over the group. “Hi! Has anyone seen Warren?”

 

Jonathan finally understanding who she is approaches her. “April? I’m Warren’s friend Jonathan, he’s a bit busy right now but you can wait here for him.”

 

April runs and hugs Jonathan. “Oh thank you, you’re a rea.....” During the hug No-one noticed his hand sneak to switch her off.

 

Spike’s hand lands on his shoulder. “She doesn’t smell human, what is she?”

 

Jonathan glances at him and takes a deep breath. “A Robot.”

 

Buffy, now sporting a big bruise on her forehead, walks over and looks at April but addresses Jonathan. “Why would your friend need a robot?”

 

Jonathan and Spike glance at each other, Andrew walks over to stand beside them. Looks at April then buffy. “Well, Warren’s not exactly good with the ladies. With the way he treats them, they aren’t exactly interested in his advances. So....” He trails off at the look of understanding dawning on her face.

 

“Ewww! He made a robot girlfriend? That’s gross.” Nods of agreement from all around, she turns to Jonathan. “How’d you know how to switch her off?”

 

“Warren talks when he’s drunk, he told me and Andrew that he made a robot girlfriend. Then ditched her when he found a real one, who ended up dumping him when she found out. eventually he got round to telling us how to turn her off.”

 

Buffy listens in revulsion at first, then nods as he finishes explaining. “How come you didn’t tell her what happened to Warren?”

 

He shrugs, “Didn’t think it was a good idea to tell a Warren obsessed robot what happened to her boyfriend.”

 

“Yeah, probably not, so what are we going to do with her?”

 

He glances at her, “Well from what Warren told us she’s freakishly strong. With Willow being super smart, I thought she could reprogram her. Take out the Warren stuff and replace it, she could be a good ally against Salazar.”

 

Giles jumps to his feet, “An Excellent Suggestion! She could prove rather useful in this fight.”

 

Willow raises her hands, “Whoa! Whoa! A new allies all well and good, but I’m not sure I can do this.”

 

Tara takes her hand, smiling reassuringly. “Sure you can sweetie.”

 

Giles pats her on the shoulder. “Yes Willow, we all have tremendous faith in you. If anyone can pull off an endeavour like this, it’s you.”

 

Willow smiles and nods, “Yeah, you’re right, I’ll do it.”

 

Tara squeezes her hand smiling as Giles walks back to his seat. “Brilliant!” He looks at the resident vampire. “Spike, you best call whoever you were going to before anymore interruptions occur. After I’d like you to tell me what you know about Salazar.”

 

Spike nods and makes his way to the phone. After dialling he puts the receiver to his ear. Within a couple of rings someone picks up. “Yeah?”

 

“Hornet, Its Spike.” Everyone was silent as they listened to Spike, only being able to hear his side of the conversation.

 

“Spike? Spike who?”

 

“Oh, ha bloody ha, you know dam well who?”

 

“hahahaha, yeah I’m just fucking with you. So what’s the problem?”

 

“You might want to get Sirrus, put the phone on speaker when you do.”

 

“Hang on a tick.”

 

“OK.” Spike glances at the others, their watching him with intrigued looks on their faces. Except Xander & Riley were as usual watching him with hatred.

 

 “Sirrus.” Spike’s attentions back on the call As soon as he hears Hornet’s voice.

 

“Hornet, what is it?”

 

“Spike’s on the phone, sounds urgent.”

 

“Put him on speaker.”

 

“Ok, Spike you’re on speaker with me and Sirrus. What’s up?”

 

“Two muppets made a bloody wish. Now we’re up shits creek without a sodding paddle.”

 

“What type of wish? You wouldn’t call unless it was serious.”

 

“To see what real human evil looks like.”

 

“Who’s stupid enough to make a wish like that?”

 

“Two idiots who didn’t believe me when I said humans could be evil. The tossers aren’t smart enough not to wish on a Hellmouth.” By this point Riley & Xander are shaking with rage. The only thing stopping them running their mouths were buffy and Giles’s glares.

 

“Who did the wish Summon?”

 

“Salazar.”

 

“BOLLOCKS!” “FUCK!"

 

Spike held the phone away at their outburst. It was loud enough that everyone else heard it as well. “Yeah, now you see why I had to call you.”

 

“Does Salazar know? That they made the wish?”

 

“No. He has no clue, he’s still trying to figure out how he got here.”

 

“That buys us time, it won’t be long before he figures it out though.”

 

“I know. Spike, those two need to be protected, you hear me?”

 

He sighs, “Yeah I hear you, be a lot easier if I knew why exactly?”

 

Hornet scoffs, “Believe me, those two sound like complete morons I’m not happy about it neither. But Salazar doesn’t like people having power over him. And no I don’t mean brain power, those two dragged him from his home world. It doesn’t matter if they meant to or not he’s going to see that as power. He’s going to stop at nothing to get them, it doesn’t matter how many people get in his way.”

 

“Bloody hell.” Spike’s muttered words are only heard by the two on the phone and buffy. Who at some point made her way over to him. She looks questioningly at him and he raises a finger and mouths ‘one minute’ she nods.

 

“Yeah this is serious, we’ll be their as soon as we can. Travelling the void takes time, especially navigating round the creature’s there.”

 

“OK, see you when you get here.”

 

“See you soon mate.” “See you then.”

 

Spike ends the call then turns to look at buffy. “Helps Coming, could be a couple of days before they arrive.”

 

“Who Are they?”

 

“D.U.S.T.” at her confused look he elaborates. “It Stands for Dimensional Unnatural Strike Team. They’re the closest thing the supernatural has to a government.”

 

Everyone except Anya looks astounded at the news, Giles even grabbed his notebook. “A supernatural government you say?” He nods “Fascinating! I heard you mention Sirrus and Hornet, are they members?”

 

He chuckles, “You could say that. Sirrus is the founder and leader.”

 

Giles starts writing it down, “Ah, I see.” He glances up at him. “And Hornet?”

 

He bursts out laughing, “I’m Sorry, I’m Sorry.” He wipes his tears away with a chuckle. “Just picturing Hornet interacting with you lots sodding hilarious." He calms himself down, “Hornets a mystically enhanced mutant. A human that got mixed with Hornet DNA, he’s pretty much human. Just faster, stronger & more intelligent. It also has it’s down sides, like an actual Hornet, he’s short fused, hot-headed, easy to aggravate and prone to violence.”

 

Riley scoffs, “So Why do you find this Hornet meeting us funny?” ‘I don’t get why we’re going to all this trouble, that Salazar’s obviously a demon. No human can incapacitate me, I’ve got military training.’

 

Dawn snorts, “That’s not hard to figure out, you’re even to big headed to go to the hospital about your arm, because you don’t trust Spike.” ‘Seriously? He doesn’t realise most of us can’t stand him. Except Xander, who I think loves him, we just tolerate him for Buffy’s sake.'

 

He glares at her, “You’re stupid, he’s nothing but an animal, trusting him will get you killed.”

 

Joyce’s slap rang out round the shop. “Don’t You Dare! Talk To My Daughter Like that! I don’t care if you’re injured. I’ll do worse and talking about trust, look what trusting you & Xander got us. A psychopath with a tendency to cut people’s limbs off.” ‘I’m going to have a talk with Buffy about her taste in boy’s, first Angel then Riley, she can do better.'

 

There were multiple reactions to Joyce’s outburst. Giles along with Spike, Dawn & Jonathan, were trying not to laugh. Buffy looked ashamed at Riley’s behaviour. Xander Had the decency to look chastised. Clem and Andrew looked scared. Anya, Tara and Willow looked amused. Riley however looked like someone just told him Santa wasn’t real.

 

After controlling his amusement, Spike knocked on the table to get everyone's attention. “It gets worse for you two.” he points at Xander and Riley. “Because according to Hornet, Salazar’s after you, he just doesn't know it yet.”

 

Buffy glances at him, “What do you mean he doesn’t know it yet?”

 

“Because he doesn’t know they made a wish. He’s looking for whoever dragged him from his home world.”

 

She nods, “What more do you know about him?”

 

“Not much and what I do know I learned from Sirrus.”

 

Joyce looks worried, “What did you learn? From your reaction to him, it doesn’t look good.”

 

He glances around everyone gathered, “Its not Joyce. Rupes had it close earlier about his world, but that’s only the start.”

 

Giles sighs at the nickname, then starts cleaning his glasses. “What do you mean by it’s only the start?”

 

“The evil outweighs the good bit for starters, it doesn’t just outweigh them it dwarfs them. The good guys there are few and far between, I’ve heard of hell dimensions that are tame in comparison.”

 

Giles swallows, “What happened for it to become so dangerous?”

 

He glances at Buffy then back to him, “Its a world where the good guys lost.” Gasps fill the room, the reaction to the news varied. Buffy & Giles went pale. Clem, Andrew, Jonathan, Dawn, Tara & Willow looked scared. Joyce looked worried for Buffy & Dawn’s safety. Xander looked anxious. Anya looked board. Riley looked in denial.

 

Buffy’s wide eyes fix on Spike, “So, evil won in Salazar’s world?”

 

“In a way. It’s a lot more complicated than that.”

 

She huffs, “How’s it more complicated? The good guys lost, meaning evil obviously won.”

 

He rolls his eyes, “Because with nothing left to fight, eventually the bad guys started fighting each other. There’s thousands of different factions, but 12 are at the top in power. They’re so bloody powerful that they see the smaller factions as a nuisance.” His tone turns sarcastic, “And do you want to take a wild sodding guess who 1 of those 12 is owned by? Salazar that’s who!” He glares at Riley & Xander, “Not only have Tweedledum & Tweedledee over there, brought one of the most dangerous people we’ll ever face here.” He jumps up lights a cigarette and starts pacing. “If he figures out how to open a sodding portal home he has armies at his disposal. Let this sink in, I used to be the master of Sunnydale, Salazar’s the master of an entire bloody continent.”

 

Giles clears his throat, “This is far worse than I ever imagined, we have to make sure he never brings his armies here.”

 

“We’re not all gonna survive this are we?” Buffy voice was full of fear making it clear its the girl in the drivers seat and not the slayer.

 

Spike puts out his cigarette, then crouches in front of her. “I’m not going to sugar coat it, the chance of that happening is slim to none.”

 

She nods, her voice small, “I don’t want to die.”

 

“I’m not going to bloody well let that happen, you have my sodding word. You hear me?” His voice firm in his belief.

 

“Nor am I, we will stop Salazar rest assured Buffy.” While Giles’s voice held determination his mind did not. ‘I bloody well hope we can, I don’t want to have just lied to my slayer.’

 

Buffy smiles at him, “Yeah, we’ll stop him.” She looks at Spike, “Thanks, I mean it.”

 

He nods at her, “Anytime slayer.”

 

Dawn’s sniffle bought his attention to her. “Don’t cry Nibblet.“ He puts his arm around her shoulder, “I’m not going to let anything happen to you either.”

 

She looks at him, eye’s full of tears, “I know you won’t, that’s the problem. “At his hurt & confused expression she rushes to explain. “But he’s human, with the chip in your head you can’t hurt him.”

 

Everyone except Xander & Riley, looked like they forgot his chip existed. “You know? In this exact moment, I hate that damn chip.” Buffy’s voice and face full of annoyance.

 

“As do I, in light of this new situation, I dare say it’s best having it removed.” Giles said as he took a seat at the table, looking mainly at Riley & Xander as if waiting for the objections. They didn’t disappoint.

 

“What, are you crazy?! That chips the only thing stopping him from killing us!” Xander’s words reverberating round the shop. ‘He can’t be serious, Spike’s dangerous, this new guy can’t be bad enough to risk unleashing William The Bloody. I don’t care what Spike says.’

 

“Xander’s right, he’s dangerous, the second that chips out his head he’ll kill you.” Riley’s look told everyone he had the delusion he knew better than they did.

 

Giles glares at them, “Like you two have room to talk with this new threat on our doorstep, who you bloody brought here in case you’ve forgotten. We could be dead well before Spike gets a sodding chance.“ He stands, walks behind the till, grabs a bottle of scotch and a glass, then returns to his seat. “And don’t you pillocks insult my intelligence, I know if Spike wanted us dead that sodding chip wouldn’t stop him. You two constantly call him an animal and think of him as stupid. He’s neither of those things, he’s definitely smarter than you, the bloody situation you’ve put us in proves that. Thanks to your thick-headedness and inability to see the world as it really is, you may very well have us all killed by the end of the week.” He pours himself a drink, slowly drinking it staring right at them, daring them to argue.

 

Xander looked hurt by his words but stayed silent, While Riley his face contorted with rage, chose as usual to ignore it all except one thing. “What do you mean?! There’s no way round the chip.”

 

“YES THERE BLOODY WELL IS!!!! The chip stops him physically harming humans. What about actions of the Non physical variety? And there are plenty, ranging from poisoning us, cutting the breaks on our cars, setting our houses on fire, telling demon’s where we live so they could kill us instead. He even had access to my books on magic when he was staying with me for god sake and he never once tried to bewitch us. Furthermore, let’s not forget my transformation into a demon, thanks to bloody Ethan, Spike could have killed me without anyone being none the wiser, but did he? No he did not.” Riley goes to speak but he carries on, “And before you say he’s not smart enough to do anything of the sort. Need I remind you that since this thing with Salazar began, you yourself have be trying to pin the blame on Spike.” He raises an eyebrow at Riley, “So by your logic, he’s not smart enough to start a sodding fire, but smart enough to trick you and Xander into making a wish?”

 

Riley’s mouth Snapped closed at that, not being able to think of a suitable retort.

 

Buffy looked ashamed at his word’s, ‘I’m guilty of that, the amount of times in the past I’ve belittled him and called him stupid, only to be the first, aside from Xander, to lay the blame at his feet the second something bad happened. Well not anymore, this thing with Salazar’s beginning to prove my world views wrong, so maybe I’m wrong about others.’ During her thoughts she was looking at Spike out the corner of her eye.

 

Spike during the watchers rant had many different facial expressions from amusement, shock, gratitude, annoyance, back to gratitude, by the end however he was dumbfounded. ‘Maybe Rupert’s not as blind as I thought, well not to certain things, it’s obvious he believes if he ignores the problems In the group they’ll go away. When it’s someone outside his sodding circle however, he’s pretty observant.’

 

Xander looked like he was trying to deny his words but couldn’t. ‘I can’t think about this right now, it hurts my head to much.’

 

Willow looked thoughtful, ‘I never realised how much most of us did that, Giles is right, we all need to change our ways.’

 

Jonathan & Andrew just kept to themselves over it because they don’t know Spike well enough and even though they might know the others to an extent,  they never hung out together before, So they were unaware of their actions.

 

Joyce, Dawn, Tara, Anya & Clem looked pleased that what they always knew has finally been pointed out by someone they might finally listen to.

 

Before anyone could speak again however, Joyce interrupted the silence. “ Well since all that’s settled, Spike will be staying with us until this problems solved. I’m not having him in his crypt defenceless to that Salazar. “ Buffy goes to speak but she holds her hand up. “No objections Buffy, it’s settled.”

 

Buffy shrugs, “I wasn’t going to.”

 

Spike’s expression was full of confusion, “Buffy?”

 

She smiles at him, “Mom’s right Spike, we can’t leave you a sitting duck, you need protecting more than anyone.”

 

“Why’s that? I’m your boyfriend Buffy.” Riley jealously demanded, ‘What is it with her and vampires? First Angel then Dracula now Spike, what do I have to do to get her to put me first?’

 

“What’s that got to do with anything? I’m thinking logically here, Spike knew Salazar. Salazar didn’t know Spike, it’s not going to be long until he starts looking for him to find out how he knows him.” ‘Seriously? If he keeps acting the way he has been he won’t be my anything much longer. He’s been like it ever since he lost those dam enhancements, doesn’t like that a woman’s stronger than him and won’t accept it, misogynistic much? I mean it definitely looks bad on him, when a guy like Salazar had to point out to him that I can defend myself and don’t need protecting.’

 

Riley glares at Spike as he answers Buffy. “I still don’t want him in your house and so what if Salazar takes him? he’s just a demon it’s not like he matters.” Xander nods making it clear he agrees with him.

 

Multiple cries of outrage rang out, Joyce’s the loudest. “HOW DARE YOU?!! Of course he matters, I won’t have you speaking to him that way and for your information, it’s not Buffy’s house Its mine. Buffy may live there but it’s my name on the deed. But being a military man you’d know about the law wouldn’t you? Oh, who am I kidding of course you don’t, you were a TA dating a student if you can’t see how wrong that was you need professional help. But with it being MY house, I don’t want you or your cheering section.” She points at Xander, “Anywhere near it, you aren’t welcome until I say so or I’ll have you done for trespassing.” She glances at his arm that’s still in the Xander made makeshift sling. “Rupert you best call someone to that arm of his, I don’t care if he doesn’t trust Spike, we do and that’s all that matters.”

 

Giles hiding his amusement glances at the phone at this. “Well, it maybe best seeing if we can get a doctor to come here. As we don’t know where Salazar currently is.”

 

 ******

 

Random House, Sunnydale, California

 

Salazar’s flicking through the TV channels searching for something to watch. He’s reclined in the main armchair, the woman of the House is currently dead at his feet and being used as a foot rest. The man of the house is impaled to the nearby wall with small poles through his hands and feet keeping him in place. He wouldn’t stop screaming so Salazar eventually sowed his lips shut.

 

After flicking through a couple more channels he huffs. “This is bollocks, there’s fuck all on.” He throws the TV remote at his impaled captives head, as it collides with a resounding crack he glances at him. As well as bleeding from where the remote hit he keeps looking in the corner of the room. He points at him, “Oi! What have I told you? Stop looking at my pet scab.”

 

The aforementioned ‘scab’ happens to be one of Glory’s minions chained up in the corner. “I’m not your anything.”

 

He looks at ‘Scabby’ as he’s dubbed him, mock hurt on his face and puts a hand over his heart. “You Wound.” His look quickly changes to one of revulsion. “On second thought don’t. I don’t need any of you little fuckers coming for new skin when it scabs over.”

 

Scabby looks offended, “I serve the great and powerful Glorificus, she will...ow.” His preaching’s cut short as Salazar throws a stapler at him from the nearby table.

 

“I’ve already told you, she’s not that great and powerful with the likes of you little wankers for minions.”

 

Before Scabby cam respond there’s a knock at the door, he raises an eyebrow at him. “Don’t tell me you ugly fuckers are telepathic.” he stands up and walks to the door, after a glance back at him, he swings the door open. Only to see a door to door salesman offering samples of aftershave.

 

The salesman looks confused but quickly recovers. “Good afternoon, is Darren home, I have some new samples he might be interested in.”

 

“He’s a bit held up at the moment, but I’m sure he’ll be thrilled to see you. Come in.”

 

“Thank You.” The salesman walks through the door, then towards the living room, only to freeze in fear at the sight before him. Darren’s impaled to the wall with his lips sown shut, his wife’s dead on the floor with her brains exposed. The 12 gauge shotgun propped up against the armchairs most likely the weapon used. Then there’s what appears to be a little Scabby creature chained up in the corner of the room. Breaking out of his frozen state he proceeds to empty his stomach contents on the floor.

 

Salazar looks at him in disgust. “Oh lovely, not only did Darren piss himself. That’s made the room smell bad enough. You have to go an one up the poor bastard by losing your lunch.”

 

“Oh god! Don’t hurt me! HELP! HELP!”

 

Salazar’s lent against the wall near the living room entrance, effectively blocking the guys escape, his arms crossed over his chest with an amused expression on his face. “Scream all you like no cunt can hear you. I mean I’ve blown a woman’s brains out, don’t you possibly think the cops would’ve been hear by now? Not that they could stop me. “ He scoffs, “Fat chance of that happening, they’re pointless when it comes to the supernatural.”

 

The salesman tries to flee, Salazar sticks his arm out effectively clotheslining him. He then proceeds to pull a 9mm pistol out the waistband of his pants and puts a bullet in each of the floored man’s kneecaps. He fetches the sample case, walks over then crouches by his head. “That was rude, leaving before showing me your samples.” He opens the case and removes a small bottle of aftershave. “I could be interested and seeing as I’m waiting for dark, let’s have some fun.”

 

The silence spell on the house, came in particularly useful when he decided to do just that. He went through the samples, if he didn’t like them the salesman suffered, which was more often than not. He took great pleasure in his screams, the torture methods ranged from tipping samples on the bullet wounds, in his eyes and forcing him to drink them. Eventually night rolled around, after finishing up he puts a bullet in his head. Glancing at his impaled captive who at some point started crying, the tears still running down his cheeks cause him to roll his eyes.

 

“Oh, Please, I’m not going to kill you.” At his captives relieved look he adds, “It’ll be far more enjoyable to let you starve to death.” His now terrified look makes him laugh.

 

He walks over to the bound minion, “Come on Scabby, we’re done here, I think it’s time you tell me more about this Glory bint, don’t you?” After grabbing the chains he drags him out the house.

 

******

 

On Route To the Hyperion, Los Angeles, California

 

Angel, Gunn and Kate were returning to the hotel, they’re using Kate’s car mainly because Angel's is still in the shop, the last mission really did a number on it.

 

Kate side glances Angel, “So how’d you get the warden to agree to Faith’s release so fast.”

 

He shrugs, “Just told him we have an apocalypse coming.”

 

Her eyes widen in shock, “And that worked? I thought not many people knew of the otherworldly aspects you’re involved in.”

 

He looks at her for a minute before explaining. “You’d be surprised how many people actually know, just because some pretend to be in denial doesn’t mean they actually are. But with the majority of people being clueless, the ones that know just go along with them It’s easier and raises less questions.”

 

Gunn jumps in the conversation, “Yeah, I realised this awhile ago, some vamps broke in this store after closing, I followed them in and dusted’em. You can imagine how that looked when the cops showed, one lone black guy in an electronics store that’s just been broken into. Luckily for me after noticing the stake and dust, one of'em tells me that I’m free to go.”

 

She glances in the rear view mirror, then back to Angel. “OK, I get that some people know but didn’t he ask why you wanted Faith?”

 

He shakes his head, “No, he knows she’s a slayer.”

 

She nods her understanding, Gunn leans forward, his face between the head rests. “Okay, so why ain’t she here with us instead of still rotting in her cell?”

 

Angel turns to acknowledge him. “Because the paperwork still needs sending off, the warden said he’d send it through people who know the supernatural exists and explain the situation.” He shrugs, “But It’s still going to take about 2 days.”

 

He nods and leans back, “Okay, just hope we don’t miss all the fun going down in SunnyD, I’m looking forward to a good fight.”

 

Kate asks the main question still on her mind. “What’s actually happening in Sunnydale? I know the sky changed but that’s about it.”

 

Angel looks worried, “We don’t actually know, I tried ringing Buffy’s house but no-one picked up and the magic box phone was engaged. But I can say for certain I’ve never felt anything like that before. Whatever that storm signified it’s bad.”

 

She makes up her mind after hearing that. “That settles it, I’m coming to.”

 

He looks dumbfounded, “What? You can’t, you have a job and I’m not sure how long we’ll be gone.”

 

“I have vacation days saved up, I’m going. You’re the one that said you need all the help you can get.”

 

“Yeah But...” Before he can continue his objections she cuts him off.

 

“But, Nothing Angel. Except from you, Faith, Gunn, Doyle and to some extent Wesley, who else in your teams experienced in conflict? And I’m not saying the others can’t handle the situation. God knows you’ve all been through some crazy stuff, but if someone’s going to be trapped in a room with something looking to kill them, who would you rather it be? Me with weapons experience and some combat skill? Or someone like Winifred?”

 

Gunn sticks his head between the head rests. “She’s got a point man, we don’t know what we’re up against, couldn’t hurt to have more back up.”

 

Angel sighs, “I know, you’re both right, I’m just worried. I get the feeling we’re not all going to survive this.”

 

Kate nods, “I get you’re worried, but Angel I’m a cop, I have a chance at dying everyday, be that on the job or some scumbag wanting revenge because I arrested his buddies. If I don’t make it out of this, it means I went down stopping a possible apocalypse. Don’t get me wrong I don’t want to die, but with my job I’ve accepted that it’s a possibility and I’ve made my peace with that.”

 

“I understand, we’re going as soon as Faith’s released, so you have 2 days to get everything together, though some of us might not be coming back.”

 

There was a look of determination on her face. “Then it’s settled.”

 

“Yeah it is, I just hope Buffy can handle whatever’s happening, at least until we arrive. I want to believe the storm was a warning and that whatever or whoever hasn’t arrived yet.”

 

 ******

 

Rundown Building, Sunnydale, California

 

Salazar was lounging in a makeshift throne in the vamp nest from earlier that day, some of the female vamps were watching him appreciatively. ‘Vampires never cease to amaze me, the second they realise you have power they drop to their knees in servitude. The vampires back home may be a different species but they react pretty much the same.’ He runs his eyes over the female vamps, they smile sultry back at him. ‘What I’m baffled about is all the females here are gorgeous and not remotely unkempt, especially for a shithole like this, it doesn’t even have running water for fuck sake. I’m a rather observant bloke, I know from their closeness and the way they act with each other that they pleasure one another. It’s obvious they aren’t interested in the male vamps that way and looking at most of them I can see why. With the looks they keep sending my way it’s also obvious they have no problem with the male anatomy. It’s a good thing they don’t touch the male vamps, I don’t sodding share. If I have to put my mark on them like back home, so the other wankers know who they belong to, so be it. Its good they’ve shown interest that means If I’m looking to get my rocks off I know where to find them.’ The screams in the back going silent drew him out of his thoughts.

 

He looks towards the back room, after a couple of minutes without noise he grew inpatient. “HANSON!!!!” his booming voice causes the vamps in the room to flinch, some in pain at the loudness others in fear.

 

Hanson came running out the back room. “Yes, Master Salazar?”

 

“What did you get out of Scabby?”

 

“He doesn’t know how you got here, they only tried grabbing you to take to Glory because they thought you were ‘The Key’ as he called it.” ‘The Key? Wonder what that’s about...That question can wait though.

 

“So, what you’re trying to tell me, is that I was in the wrong place at the wrong time? That this has nothing to do with my enemies back home?”

 

“We’re not sure Master, we know glory and her followers have nothing to do with it. But we aren’t sure about your enemies involvement.”

 

He nods, “If those bastards back home have anything to do with it, I’ll deal with them when I get back.“ He puts his open right hand out, palm up and waited. Hanson looked confused at first, until one of the female vamps walked over a put a large bottle of whisky in his hand. She then sat on the floor by his feet, he glanced at her his expression pleased, then looks around the room. “You see that, I didn’t even need to say anything, she’d do well back home, I might even take her back with me when I return.” She looked ecstatic at his word’s. He opens the bottle of whisky takes a couple of swallows, then looks at Hanson. “So what did Scabby tell you about this Glory?”

 

“She’s a hell-god and was banished here by the other two hell-gods of that dimension. She’s in the process of looking for this ‘key’ to get back home.”

 

“A Hell-god? Well it wouldn’t be the first time I’ve crossed paths with one, I wonder if she got my message? What about this Key she’s after?”

 

“It can apparently open the dimensional walls between realities.”

 

He puts a hand up, “Wait, open dimensional walls?” At Hanson’s nod, he grinned, “Well, isn’t that smashing? This Key might be my way home. Did Scabby by any chance say where it is?”

 

“Yes, apparently some monks sent it to the slayer, it’s her job to protect it.”

 

“Ah yes, the slayer, I’ve met her already, do you know her name by any chance?”

 

Hanson shrugs, “Depends, there’s two of them"

 

He masks his surprise, “Two? I only met the blonde one, Where’s the other?”

 

“Yeah, the blonde one’s name is Buffy, I don’t know her second name. The other is a brunette called Faith, don’t know hers either, but she’s in prison for murder.”

 

He laughs, “I take it she took it to far in bed?  There’s a reason most slayers screw vamps, less breakable.”

 

“No, she joined the bad guys and helped the mayor with his ascension, the blonde one put her in a coma when she poisoned her then boyfriend. She woke up switched bodies with the other one, slept with her new boyfriend, got switched back and ran off to L.A. and turned herself in.”

 

If anything that only made him laugh harder. “Oh, it’s too funny, this Faith sounds like fun, too bad she turned herself in it means she’s looking to pay for her crimes. But this just proves how stupid the fucking good guys are, what good can she do in a cell? They’re actively letting people die, all so she can see the error of her ways? Which she obviously already has. Because she turned herself in Hahahaha.” He wipes away his tears, “This Buffy, Who was her first boyfriend? The one that got poisoned?”

 

“A vampire that goes by Angel, he’s in L.A., he has a soul.” At this he looked at him like he was stupid, Hanson couldn’t figure out why, so he explains the rest. “He was one of the worst vampires ever known he originally went by Angelus. The gypsies cursed him with a soul for his crimes.”

 

Understanding dawns on his face, “Ah, You mean a human soul? You had me going there.” He chuckles, “So Why’s he go by a different name? Wait, don’t tell me he’s one of those retards that pretend to be different with or without a soul?”

 

“Yeah he believes that he and Angelus are two separate people.”

 

He shakes his head stupefied, ‘How sodding thick can you get, who in their bloody right mind believes that shi.....Ah.’ “He did it to get in the blondes pants, of course he did.” He chuckles, “How old was she when he first showed up?”

 

“Well we don’t know for sure but according to what we heard, she was 15 when he started watching her, 16 When he showed himself and it was her 17th birthday when he took her virginity.”

 

He looks disgusted, “So, not only is he a lying stalker, he’s also a paedophile? What happened after that?”

 

“The curse was lifted ‘one moment of true happiness and he would lose his soul’ or something along those line’s. Angelus was back stalked her more, killed her watchers girlfriend, apparently her friends fish and tried sucking the world into hell.”

 

“Hahahaha, that complete an utter wanker has no control over his demon does he? What a muppet, especially after that poor cow was dumb enough to open her legs for him.” He wipes his tears away, “None of those idiots researched his curse, it’s pretty obvious, I’m shocked their still alive. The bad guys here are obviously cretins, I think they need to see what I’m capable of. Anyway enough about the mong molester, who’s the boyfriend that Faith shagged wearing Blondies skin?”

 

“Some soldier, he used to work in the initiative, they used to capture and experiment on demons. They eventually created their own human, demon, machine hybrid that led to their downfall.”

 

His eyes widen with shock, “Wait, misogynistic man’s her boyfriend, but he’s human.” He grins, “Oh, That’s Fucking Brilliant! She has no idea about what she actually is.” Couple more swallows of whisky, “I’m just going to sit back and enjoy the show, she’s gonna have her whole belief system destroyed, especially when They get here.” He said the word ‘they’ in disgust.

 

“Who are ‘They’ Master?”

 

He waves his hand dismissively, “Not important yet, back to business. First, we need a better place, start looking I’m wanting something big and easy to defend. Second, find that sodding key before Glory does, if any fuckers using it, it’ll be me. Third, keep an eye on the slayer, I don’t want any surprises, some prick even remotely breathes in her vicinity I wanna know about it. Fourth, find some new minions, human, demon anything I don’t bloody care. Fifth, let everyone you come across know that I’m the new master of the Hellmouth, that’s all. Hanson you wait there, The Rest Of You Move Out!” They all nod and move towards the exits.

 

“What do you need Master?”

 

“Is Scabby still alive?” Hanson nods, “Good, he could still come in useful. Before you join the others, one more question, who’s the bleached blonde vamp that’s with the slayer?”

 

“His name’s Spike, or William The Bloody, or The Slayer Of Slayers, whichever you prefer.”

 

He raises a surprised eyebrow, “So, he’s killed slayers as well, Why’s he hanging around with one?”

 

“The initiative I told you about earlier, they put a behavioural chip in his head, he gets a shock every time he tries to hurt a human.”

 

His smirk was terrifying, “Well, isn’t that interesting?”

 

******

 

Glory’s Apartment, Sunnydale, California

 

Glory was pacing clearly angry, “Where are they? I don’t like to be kept waiting and It’s been hours.”

 

One of the minions was trying to calm her. “If I may, your most glorious one? perhaps they just lost track of time?”

 

She scoffs, “What could have possibly caught their attention in this hellhole? And I don’t mean that in a good way, there’s nothing here except my key, which I know they wouldn’t keep me waiting if they’d found it.”

 

Before the minion could respond the doors burst open to reveal a very badly wounded murk being carried by several other minions.

 

She storms over, “What happened? Where did you find him? Who did this?”

 

One minion looked scared but answered anyway. “We found him In an alley calling for help your magnificence, as for what happened, we can only go off what murk told us your most splendid one.”

 

“And? What did he tell you?” she demanded.

 

The other minions glanced at each other before pushing the one who answered her originally forward.

 

He stumbles, glares over his shoulder at them and sees them shrug, than faces forward to address glory. “Well, he told us they came across a man wearing all black and was apparently human, they attempted to bring him to you, your gratefulness. He was new to town and they assumed he could be the key, it soon became clear they were wrong though. He preceded to kill them all, wound murk to deliver a message to you and kidnap jinx your brilliance.”

 

She looked outraged, “HE TOOK MY JINXY?! Who does he think he is? What was the message?” She was pacing by the end of her questions.

 

“Yes your most loveliest one, he’s taken jinx, the message was ‘You have no idea who you’re messing with’ murk said he told him that if you asked ‘who’s responsible’ to say ‘Master Salazar’ he’s apparently crowned himself the master of the Hellmouth your greatness.”

 

“So, some human took ownership of the Hellmouth? How’s that possible?”

 

“Murk explained that he was extremely powerful your most gloriousness.”

 

“Does he want my key? Doesn’t matter if he does, he won’t get it. If this Salazar wants a war, I’m happy to oblige.”

 

 ******

 

Motel, Outside Sunnydale, California

 

After checking in, Ethan lounged on the bed lost in his thoughts. ‘The storm stopped hours ago but I still get this feeling of dread coming from the town, I wonder which side I’ll be on? After all I usually side with evil. But I have a feeling whoever’s in town is extremely dangerous, I can feel their power all the way out here and I don’t like it. This isn’t the usual bad guy I can tell, they’re usually incompetent and end up losing. I have a feeling even if he loses he’ll leave behind everlasting damage. Far worse than anything ever before seen, it might be time to work with Ripper again.’

 

******

 

On Route To Sunnydale, California

 

Oz pulled up to a gas station to fill his tank, the storm stopped hours ago but he was still going. If anything his wolf was getting more anxious the longer it takes. ‘I wonder what could possibly be happening? My wolf’s never reacted this bad before, that’s a bit worrying in itself, but the more people fighting this, the more chance we have at winning. I just hope there aren’t to many casualties, because I’m not stupid enough to think we’re all going to survive this.’

 

 ******

 

On Route To California, Texas

 

After hot wiring someone’s car, Lawson’s on his way to his family. ‘Once I’m in California I’ll rest for the day then continue on to Sunnydale to see the chief. I’m wondering what’s bad enough to scare my bloodline, I don’t care about ‘Peaches’ as Spike calls him. but Spike was like a sire & a brother and if its possible that he falls in this upcoming battle, because I’m under no delusion there won’t be one, well there’s nowhere I’d rather be, he won’t fall alone.’

 

******

 

Magic Box, Sunnydale, California

 

Dr Francis, long time friend of Giles just finished with Riley’s arm, “I still say he needs to go to the hospital Rupert.”

 

Giles sighs, “That would be a lot easier if these two morons didn’t wish a psychopath here.”

 

“Ah, the dreaded wish.” He looks from Riley to Xander, “That definitely wasn’t smart of you boys.” He turns to look at Giles, “You called him Salazar?” Giles nods, “I’ll keep my ear out for you Rupert.” ‘I thank my lucky stars, if I never met Rupert I wouldn’t know about the things that went bump in the night. This Salazar definitely sounds like bad news.’

 

“Thank you Christopher, do me one more favour? If anyone asks you if you know us tell them no. I don’t want Salazar to come after you to get to us.”

 

“OK Rupert, I won’t say a thing, I must be going now though I’m needed back at the hospital, its what took me so long to get here.” He shakes hands with Giles then leaves.

 

Giles walks over to the table and takes a seat. “Spike? I have some more questions if I may?”

 

He looks up, “Sure, what do you want to know watcher?”

 

“How did you meet D.U.S.T.? For starters.”

 

Everyone looked at him curiously, except Riley & Xander were as usual watching him in suspicion. Clem however wasn’t watching at all, as he left to get snacks despite nearly everyone telling him not to, he told them he knew a place near by and explained that Salazar didn’t hurt him the two times he had the chance and left anyway.

 

“Back when me & dru were together, we’d sometimes go our separate ways for a couple of years at a time, it was few and far between when it happened. But the last time was in WW2, that’s when I met D.U.S.T.”

 

Buffy got really irritated at his mention of Drusilla and their time together, ‘I Don’t know why, if I didn’t know any better I’d say I’m jealous, but that can’t be right, can it?’ she was brought out of her thoughts by Giles.

 

“What led up to the meeting?” the question caused Spike to glance at Buffy. ‘Hmmm, I wonder why?’

 

“Me & Lawson just reached land, it turns out we ended up in France. As we walked down the beach we saw what looked like military types standing outside this cave, only they weren’t in any uniform we were familiar with, Even their guns were futuristic.”

 

“Who’s this Lawson you mentioned, another member?” the question again caused him to glance at Buffy. ‘So, this leads me to believe whoever Lawson is, Buffy won’t like the answer.’

 

He sighs, “No, He’s not. Back in WW2 the Nazis were capturing vampires for the super-soldier experiments.” He sends a pointed look to Riley. “I was caught along with The Prince of Lies & Nostroyev.” Giles’s gasp interrupted his explanation.

 

“The Prince of Lies & Nostroyev, really?”

 

“Who are they Giles?” Buffy’s confusion clear in her voice.

 

He fetches a book, “The Prince of Lies is a very old vampire, so old that his features were permanently changed similar to that of The Master & Kakistos. Nostroyev however, give me a second.” He flicks through a couple of pages, “Ah, yes he claimed to be ‘The Scourge of Siberia’ and ‘The Butcher of Alexander Palace’ although neither was ever proven. I apologise for the interruption Spike, please continue.” Giles by this point had his notebook ready.

 

He looks at Giles with amusement, that quickly disappeared however when he glanced at Buffy. ‘No beating around the sodding bush Spike old boy, she’s got to know eventually.’ He clears his throat, “Right, well after they caught us we woke up on a German sub. We broke out killed the Nazis and half of the Americans that commandeered it, before we realised it was stuck at the bottom of the sodding ocean. Then Peaches showed up.”

 

Buffy gasped, “Angel? What was he doing there?”

 

He looks at her sympathetically, “Where do I begin luv? He got roped into it by the American government, they know he’s a vampire and sent him down to get the sub. Long story short the poofter dusted the other two and the only person who could fix the sub was wounded and slowly dying. A young sailor by the name of Sam Lawson, Peaches turned him, made him fix the sub, then threw me and Lawson in the ocean to bloody swim to shore.”

 

Multiple gasps sound out, the rooms reaction varied. Riley & Xander looked smug, like what they’ve always knowns been proven right.

 

Giles looked pissed, ‘Well that explains why Spike was worried about her reaction. What else has that brooding pillock lied about?’

 

Buffy had a face like thunder, ‘He lied? Why am I not surprised, he was never honest with me and the souls no excuse, he had it then. The I have a soul argument won’t work on me now, Salazar’s already shattered that belief.’

 

The rest looked angry on Buffy’s behalf, before anyone could speak, Clem entered the shop.

 

“Guys! Salazar & Glory are at war.”

 

Spike seemed mildly surprised, “Thought it would eventually happen, wasn’t expecting it to be this fast.”

 

Everyone looked at him shocked, “What do you mean you were expecting it?” Giles asked aghast

 

He shrugs, “When you put two massively powerful and evil beings with huge egos together in one place what do you expect to happen? Let’s not forget, in Salazar’s world the evil guys can’t stand each other. He’s probably making a play for the master of the Hellmouth title and sees Glory as competition. In a way this is a good thing.”

 

“What do you mean this is a good thing? We’re going to be in the middle of a war zone.” Buffy’s voice was full of disbelief at his words. ‘Salazar vs. Glory is definitely not something I want to be stuck in the middle of.’

 

“Well, with them two concentrating on each other they’re less likely to come after us. Which gives us time to wait for D.U.S.T. to get here.”

 

“Huh, I never thought of it that way.” She turns to Clem, “How’d you know they’re at war?”

 

“I saw their minions fighting.”

 

Riley scoffs, “That’s doesn’t mean their at war.” ‘What an idiot’

 

“In Salazar’s case it does.” Spike interjected

 

“That’s not all, he didn’t just kill rack he slaughtered everyone in his waiting room.” Clem continues as if Riley hadn’t spoken.

 

“Why? It’s like he’s just killing for the sake of killing. Like there’s no reason behind it.” Willow’s voice held fear and confusion.

 

Giles begins cleaning his glasses, “I don’t believe that’s true Willow.” At all except Spike’s obvious confusion he sighs. “He’s in a strange world with no idea how he got here, I’m certain in my belief that he’s lashing out. From what I’ve heard of his world everyone there is involved in the fight. I also believe he was born into this, meaning to him there’s no such thing as an innocent victim, he has no reason to believe that he wasn’t sent here by one of his enemies so they could attack without him being there. With this information I’m led to conclude that he more than likely thinks this is a trap, that everyone he kills works for said enemies and the ones responsible with make themselves known the more damage he causes.”

 

Everyone digested this information after awhile though Joyce spoke. “I think its a good idea that we call it a night, I suggest  we all go to my house, safety in numbers.“ She glares at Riley & Xander, “You two with have to find somewhere else to stay though, I’m not having you in my home causing more trouble or trying to stake Spike because in you’re delusion it’s the right thing to do.”

 

“What? You can’t be serious? Salazar could get us.” Xander’s voice showed his panic.

 

Joyce just stared at him, “You mean the same Salazar that till just this moment you thought wasn’t a threat?”

 

“He’s not you’re all exaggerating, Buffy are you going to allow this?” Riley said angrily.

 

Buffy just shrugs, “What do you want me to do Riley? She’s my mom and she’s right. You two can’t be trusted around Spike right now, I know Hornet said you need protecting but for the time being Salazar’s to busy with Glory to care. Even if he does it’s like I said earlier he’s more likely to come after Spike!” Everyone had gathered their stuff and was ready to leave by the end of her rant.

 

“Fine be that way, I wouldn’t stay in your house even if you invited me to, not with a filthy bloodsucker staying there.” Riley sneered and stormed out the shop.

 

“You know what? Riley’s right! come on Anya, we’re leaving.” Xander was clearly angry, ‘They picked the bloodsucker over us? we’ll show them, maybe we can tell Salazar it’s Spike’s fault he’s here and he’ll kill him for us. Yeah that just might work.’

 

“No Xander, I’ll stay with the others, you & Riley caused this mess and you’re still not accepting that. Until you change your attitude and the way you act, we can’t help you.”

 

“Whatever, pick the evil dead over me." he Snapped then walked out the shop. ‘I don’t understand when me and Riley became the bad guys. Its Spike’s fault it has to be.’

 

Giles rubbed his temples, “Those dosey pillocks! They need a sodding wake up call to understand their bloody actions have consequences.” Everyone nodded as they left the shop heading for Revello drive.

Notes:

I got fed up waiting for my proofreader to get back to me. I paid a lot more attention with this chapter. I went through it with a fine toothed comb lol. Hope there isn't to many errors. Let me know what you think.

Chapter 3: Chapter 3 - Dangerous Denial

Notes:

This chapters longer than the previous two, It spans one & a half days in the story. Other future chapters could be this length or longer.

This chapter is a little bit darker at a certain point, but there will be even darker chapters to come.

The genres & characters will be updated with this chapter.

1630 Revello Drive, Sunnydale, California

 

Sleeping arrangements the night before were tight but they managed to squeeze everyone in. Buffy & Dawn shared with Joyce. Giles got Dawn’s room. Willow, Tara & Anya shared Buffy’s room. Andrew got the couch and Jonathan had the armchair while Spike and Clem were in the basement.

 

The smell of cooking roused Giles from his slumber after looking at the clock and seeing it was 11 am he groaned. ‘I can’t believe I’ve only just woken up, the unfamiliar bed has to be the culprit.’ He gets up and makes his way downstairs.

 

Joyce looks up as he enters the kitchen. “Good morning Rupert, did you sleep well?”

 

He sits on one of the stools at the kitchen island. “Yes thank you Joyce, I’m usually up earlier than this at home however.” He looked embarrassed like he was caught doing something wrong.

 

She chuckles, “Not to worry it happens to everyone, would you like tea?” she asked as she put a plate of bacon & eggs in front of him.

 

“Yes that would be lovely, thank you.” He looks round the kitchen as if only just now noticing he & Joyce were the only occupants. “Where’s everyone else? I assume they’re not still asleep?”

 

“No, they’re in the living room discussing what to do about Salazar.”

 

“Ah, I think I shall join them I still have questions for Spike.” He finishes his breakfast then makes his way to the others.

 

“I’ll bring the tea through when it’s made.”

 

“Thank you Joyce”

 

Buffy looks up as he enters, “Hey Giles sleep well?”

 

He smiles at her, “Yes Buffy, thank you for asking. So what’s been discussed in regards to Salazar?”

 

She sighs, “Not much, we don’t even know that much about him Giles. We know what Spike told us and he only learned that from Sirrus. I think its best to wait until he gets here to know more.”

 

“Yes I agree, the more we know the better chance we have at stopping him.” He begins mentally going over everything that happened ‘All this happened due to a sodding wish tho....’ “Of course! With everything that happened it totally slipped my mind.” He looks towards the resident ex-vengeance demon. “Anya? Who was that vengeance demon who granted the wish?”

 

She looks offended, “That.” She spat, “Wasn’t a vengeance demon.” At all the rooms confused looks she huffs. “Don’t you know anything about the things you fight? It was a Denial Demon.” 

 

Joyce entered with a tray of drinks, hearing the last bit of Anya’s statement, after putting the tray down and taking a seat on the couch she asks. “What’s a denial demon?”

 

“As the name suggests they hone in on denial, the stronger the better. They’re related to vengeance demons somewhere down the line, but you won’t hear either side admit that as we don’t like each other very much. They’re worse than vengeance demons though, because their wishes nearly always lead to the death of the one who asked for it. What makes it worse, the wish won’t end until its done what it’s meant to do. This means that no matter what Salazar does, he can’t get home until it ends. I believe Hornet knew what demon cast the wish, with him telling you to protect Xander & Riley. If the person responsible for the wish dies without coming out of their denial, the only other way to stop the wish is to find the demon responsible and kill them, and with them being related to vengeance demons that will be extremely difficult.”

 

Everyone stared at her eyes wide with shock thinking two things ‘how didn’t one come after us earlier?’ & ‘What do we do now?’

 

Giles clears his throat, “This is a very bad situation, because everyone here knows that Riley & Xander will never come out of their denial. Unless something catastrophic occurs to force them out of it.” Everyone nods to this statement.

 

“Why didn’t you say anything before Anya?” Buffy’s anger at the situation colouring her voice.

 

“When have any of you listened to me before? To you I’m just Xander’s girlfriend. The fact you listened to him over me in the past is laughable. He’s proven with this latest situation he knows nothing of the supernatural world and doesn’t want to know about it.” She laughs bitterly, “I’m over 1100 years old and to you, a child knows better than I do. But then you never cared about my feelings at all did you. Buffy starts dating a demon hating Nazi and not once did you think about how uncomfortable & scared I felt in his presence. The main reason you never listened to me after I turned human was because you all expected me to be like Angel and pretend my demon past never happened. You need to get out of that demon bad mind-set, D.U.S.T. won’t stand for it when they get here.”

 

Most of the people in the room looked down ashamed. Thoughts running through their heads.

 

Spike looked at her with pride, ‘Thank fuck demon girl called them out on their bullshit.’

 

Buffy was looking at the floor thoughts still running amok. ‘She’s right we’ve never listened to her and I never thought how certain people would react to Riley. I mean Spike was experimented on and came to us for help and what do I do, date one of the people responsible for god sake. The Angel thing I didn’t even realise till she said it, but I did expect her to pretend her demon past never happened and when she didn’t I stopped listening to her, just so my beliefs stayed as I wanted them to. Those same beliefs that Salazar’s destroying one by one.’

 

Giles was currently drinking the tea that Joyce made lost in thought. ‘I never realised how bad she was treated until it was just pointed out. I’ve had problems with Riley from the start, yet not once did I think of Anya or even Spike’s feelings in the matter. Yes I Rupert Giles am admitting the councils wrong, Spike’s reaction to Salazar forced me to acknowledge that he has feelings and if the rest still deny it then their denial is stronger than I thought.’

 

Dawn glances at Anya, “Here I thought everyone ignored me. I’m sorry if I ever made you feel that way Anya.” Dawn’s apology made the rest follow suit, after the ‘I’m sorrys' were out Anya turn to dawn.

 

“Not to worry Dawn, it wasn’t you, the way everyone was in denial about their life’s and actions made me wonder why a denial demon didn’t arrive sooner. Take Buffy for example, she’s in some delusion that everyone likes Riley, when apart from Xander & Willow, the rest of us can’t stand him.”

 

Buffy looked up at this, “Really? Except from Xander & Willow, no one else likes him? At all?” Everyone except Anya, Spike and Dawn averted their eyes. “Oh.....Why didn’t anyone tell me sooner?”

 

Anya looked at her in disbelief, “You really need to ask that? Like it wasn’t obvious? Apart from you, Xander & Willow, no one else believed all humans were good. So you expected everyone to jump for joy when you started dating someone, who was by everyone else’s standers a torturer? It doesn’t matter that they weren’t humans, it was still torture. And speaking of denial, I can’t be the only person here who can’t tell the difference between Angel & Riley, apart from a pulse their exactly the same.”

 

“What do you mean? Their nothing alike Ril...” She was cut of when Anya interrupted.

 

“If you were about to say ‘Riley’s human’ then you’ve just proven my point. Even you can’t tell the difference. I mean come on, they both treat you like a child who can’t defend yourself, they both constantly look constipated, they both have their own denial big enough to write books about and their both hulking brunettes. You seen them together last year, it must have been like playing spot the difference and you’re telling me you never noticed?” Anya raises an eyebrow at her.

 

Buffy’s eyes filled with realisation, ‘Oh My God! She’s right, how did I never notice? I guess that’s what they mean about denial.’ “You’re right Anya, I can’t believe I never realised.”

 

“Well, you know what they say about denial? It’s dangerous.” Anya said matter-of-factly.

 

Giles finally speaks up, “Yes, denial is indeed dangerous, as this situation with Salazar has shown us. Thank you for the information on the demon Anya, you’ve been extremely helpful.”

 

Anya beams at him, “You’re very welcome Giles.”

 

He smiles at her then turns to Spike. “Now Spike, could you continue your explanation from yesterday about how you met D.U.S.T.? Before you had to explain Lawson of course.”

 

Spike nods, “Yeah, like I said me and Lawson saw them outside this cave in France. The uniforms they wore made them pretty obvious though. They wore jackets similar to the windbreakers the FBI wear, only theirs was white with D.U.S.T. on it in black. Some had bulletproof or sometimes flak vests underneath. The vests were still black & white just the other way round and they all had badges hanging round their necks.”

 

“Ah, so they’re essentially both the supernatural military & police force in one?”

 

“Yeah watcher, spot on, anyway as we got closer we could hear one of them throwing insults into the cave entrance.” He chuckles, “This member stood out though, he wore the same uniform but it was black & yellow. For those wondering, Yeah that was Hornet, they came here because their sensors went haywire. Some rifts appeared in the cave, they made it possible for creatures to get to this dimension. Notice how I said creatures because those things weren’t demons. D.U.S.T. came in to close the rifts and push them back, me & Lawson weren’t even meant to be there. Anyway after we helped them, introductions happened then we had a drink and got talking, that’s when they told us about Salazar & other enemies they’ve fought. I gotta tell you they went through some shit.”

 

“Fascinating! What can you tell me about these creatures you fought?”

 

“All I can tell you is they looked like giant monstrous insects.”

 

“What do you mean that’s all you can tell us?” Buffy’s disappointed voice cut into the conversation.

 

“I’m sorry luv, it was a D.U.S.T. operation, meaning its classified until they say otherwise. To not ‘cause a mass panic’ as they put it.”

 

“Oh...well that sucks.” she pouted.

 

He chuckles, “I can tell you something else I learned from them, it’ll probably blow the watchers mind.”

 

Giles’s disappointment disappeared at his words, “Yes, I’d like very much to know what you learned from them, see if it will ‘blow my mind’ as you say.”

 

“Well, D.U.S.T. are from a different multiverse.”

 

Giles’s eyes rounded in disbelief, “What, how’s that possible? I know that we’re in a multiverse, but there are others?”

 

“Yeah, for example, do you know that bloke from the Whelp’s comic books, Captain America or whatever?” Nods all around, “Well, Sirrus & Hornet have met him.”

 

“What? You mean they went into the comic book?”

 

He shakes his head, “No watcher, here he’s a comic book character, in another multiverse he’s real and no, not Sirrus's multiverse either.”

 

“But how’s it possible? From everything the council knows the multiverse we’re in is infinite. Is that not correct?”

 

“Yes, it’s correct. This is where it’ll get confusing, they had to explain it to me & Lawson a lot. In our defence we were bladdered by then. Anyway as they put it, all the multiverse’s are infinite, unless you can find a way out of them. Apparently that’s not something that’s easy to pull off, other people can do it but not many. When you get out of a multiverse, you end up in the void and it’s not as empty as the name suggests it is, or so they told me. Millions of different multiverse’s are out there apparently. Sometimes it could take days to travel to one, other times it could take years. D.U.S.T. can do it faster than others because of their technology & power.”

 

Everyone except Anya was dumbfounded by the information they just received, Giles was busy writing it all down.

 

“Wow, I think you’ve just blown my mind, I was going to ask why they never got involved in the past. With everything I just learned though it makes sense, I can’t imagine how busy there life’s are. All I have to do is protect a Hellmouth, they have to travel and probably don’t see their loved one’s for years at a time.” Buffy’s voice was full of amazed wonder.

 

“Don’t sell yourself short slayer, you do amazing work here, nothing anyone can do will make that any less true.”

 

She blushes at his word’s and smiles shyly at him, “Thanks Spike, that means a lot.”

 

He smiles softly, “No problem luv.”

 

Giles interrupts the moment when he asks Anya a question. “Anya? You don’t seem the least bit surprised at Spike’s information, why is that?”

 

“Well, I was a demon for over 1100 years. You don’t seriously believe i didn’t know about D.U.S.T. do you? It’s a good thing I work at the magic box, I don’t want you getting arrested for selling illegal goods. I mean, god knows what laws of theirs you guys probably have broken. Even D'Hoffryn follows their laws, there are certain wishes we aren’t allowed to grant due to them.”

 

“Laws?” Buffy’s voice squeaked due to the panic.

 

“Of course, Spike told you that they’re our government, what did you expect?”

 

“I just didn’t think, do they have laws for slayers?”

 

“They do, but I don’t know them, it’s not like I was friends with any.”

 

“Spike, please tell me you know?” she pleaded.

 

He looked sympathetic, “I’m sorry luv I don’t, like demon girl said, I wasn’t friendly with slayers either.”

 

She starts hyperventilating, “Oh God! Oh God! Oh God! I don’t want to go to prison Spike!”

 

Spike grabs her by the shoulders, “Slayer? Buffy? Look at me!” she does, “That’s it calm down luv, you don’t know you’ve broken their laws and even if you did, you didn’t know they existed, they’ll give a pass for that.

 

“You promise?” she asks in a small voice.

 

“Yeah I promise, if you break any in front of them though I can’t help. If you ask they’ll tell you what they are.”

 

She nods taking a calming breath, “OK, thank you Spike.”

 

“Not a problem luv.”

 

Giles question brings them out there moment. “What did you mean Anya? What illegal goods?”

 

“Things that are illegal to be sold.” She looked at him in a way that clearly said ‘duh’

 

“Oh, of course how silly of me.” Sarcasm clear in his voice.

 

“That’s OK Giles, you aren’t expected to know everything.” Sarcasm that Anya clearly didn’t understand.

 

Giles was clearly offended before he could voice his offense however Joyce spoke. “What did you mean? Earlier when you said ‘you guys’ when talking about their laws being broken. The supernaturally affected I can understand, Tara & Willow are witches, Buffy’s the slayer, Spike’s a vampire, Clem’s a demon, Rupert’s a watcher and you’re an ex-demon. I’m not supernatural at all.” She’s clearly confused. ‘I’m not sure about Andrew, I know Jonathan supposedly has magical abilities, from what happened last year. His time as a ‘global superstar’ that Buffy & Dawn told me about. It’s crazy but knowing Dawn wasn’t actually there, it’s still a lot to get used to.’

 

“That doesn’t matter Joyce, you know the supernatural exists so that puts you under D.U.S.T. law. They do this because you could commit supernatural crimes, it also puts Xander & Riley under them and it doesn’t matter how much they complain, it won’t change a thing, the human governments have no power & authority over D.U.S.T. whatsoever.”

 

“I can’t picture Riley liking that, that his military connections mean nothing.” Buffy’s amused voice interrupted.

 

“Like I said, it doesn’t matter if he likes it or not, it won’t change a thing. It doesn’t matter what damage Salazar does, With D.U.S.T. being here no other government organisations will get involved. The heads of every country & government agency know who they are, and know they’re not equipped to handle it. For example if a massive event happens that seems strange to humans, the police, FBI, CIA or others like them won’t get involved, not if D.U.S.T. are, they’ve even in the past ran with the cover stories that D.U.S.T. gave them.”

 

Giles was gobsmacked, “I was not aware that this unknown government had such influence. It’s truly astounding that they’re renowned to this extent within the human governments.”

 

Anya laughs at that, “Oh, They’re known across all creation, Sirrus is a legend, the evil they’ve defeated & the apocalypse’s they’ve stopped, makes the one’s you’ve all faced look like child’s play. The one’s they usually deal with sometimes span multiple planets, universes, multiverse’s and even the void.”

 

Buffy raises her hand, “Wait, demons spread out that far?”

 

Anya turns to face her, “Yes & no, yes because demons exist everywhere. No because we’re the only multiverse that has just demons.”

 

“What do you mean just demons?”

 

“For example, everywhere else vampires aren’t demons. Even here they’re not full demon, they’re hybrids and no I don’t mean just human & demon. Spike’s a human, demon & vampire hybrid, the vampires that came here originally got infected with demon blood, with that and the abundance of other demons, they eventually evolved becoming demons. The other vampire species & breeds despise them because of it.”

 

Even Spike was speechless at this bit of information, Giles after a minute speaks up. “And this is common knowledge?”

 

“If you know about D.U.S.T. it is, for example most monster hunters here follow their laws. That’s why they don’t work with the watchers council, this is due to a law I know you’ve broken yourselves. That law state’s that ‘Any information regarding non human subjects has to be valid & shown alongside proof, if its not valid or not shown with proof this makes the information ineligible & any hunters caught using ineligible information will be thoroughly investigated, fined and/or imprisoned.’

 

Buffy looked scared, “What does it mean by valid & shown alongside proof?”

 

Giles was furiously cleaning his glasses. “A criteria not all the councils information falls under I’m afraid.”

 

“But what’s it mean Giles?” Buffy pleaded

 

He glances at her then sighs, “The valid part means the information cannot be wrong in any way, shape or form. For example, someone writing about a demon ability, that the said demon does not in fact possess. or in the watchers councils case, the information’s so old that it becomes no longer valid. The proof part is also a problem, with most of our books being written by people who died hundreds of years ago, we have no knowledge where they gathered said information.”

 

Anya interrupts him, “Even though that’s mostly true, that’s not the main reason they writ that law. Someone once writ a book on a specific demon, saying that it was dangerous and evil, this couldn’t have been more wrong and the person responsible knew that. The demon in question is harmless & so trusting, that I even know humans that keep them as pets. The sick reason he wrote it in the first place was because his neighbour, who he hated, got one as a pet. Let’s just say the book resulted in thousands of them being killed, when D.U.S.T. found out they definitely weren’t happy, the guy got life in prison, all the books were destroyed, the demon was put on the endangered species list & that law was written. This story has a good outcome though, after a couple of years and with being closely monitored the demon was thriving again, meaning the little cuties were taken off the list.”

 

Joyce looked outraged, “I’m glad they made the law, the person responsible got off easy in my opinion, having something killed no matter what it is, because of jealousy & hatreds disgusting.” 

 

Anya nodded, “Yes, it definitely is, it’s good Buffy’s changed her ways though.”

 

Buffy’s face filled with worry, “What do you mean?”

 

“Oh, the way you used to act towards Spike, you know, the way Xander & Riley’s still acting?” At Buffy’s blank expression she huffs, “That you constantly used to call him names because he’s a vampire, to D.U.S.T. that would be considered hate speech. Judging someone on their race or species not actions, and before you say it, the stuff he’s done in the past doesn’t matter, if you think he can’t change then neither can humans. And don’t get me started with chaining him up and withholding his food, add the fact you’ve hit him multiple times since that chips been installed, knowing full well he can’t hit back, because he’s a vampire you might as well add hate crimes to the list.”

 

Buffy’s eyes filled with tears of shame, Spike came to her defence. “Wait, I said stuff to deserve some of those punches.”

 

“It doesn’t matter, she doesn’t punch anyone else for insulting her, she felt justified with you because she’s the slayer & you’re a vampire. Thinking that you didn’t matter, that she has no one to answer to for it, which was just proven wrong. You’re all under the impression that D.U.S.T. just protect humans, they don’t, they protect every species & race, because we all know no one else will. They mainly protect the innocent, harmless & defenceless, meaning when the initiative put that chip in your head, they unknowingly put you under D.U.S.T. protection from humans, but since you never told them you got chipped, they didn’t know you needed protecting. If you told them back then they would’ve shut the initiative down, and what excuse was that? you deserved some of the punches? Would that work for the human government, if the victim said they deserved it? No, so why do you think it’ll work for the supernatural one? I mean you’ve met them.” She raises an eyebrow at him.

 

Spike looked sheepish, “We didn’t really talk about their laws, most of the night was spent drinking.”

 

Buffy now with control on her emotions interrupts, “Spike, thank you for trying to defend me, but you didn’t deserve what I did to you, I wouldn’t have dreamed of doing anything like that to a human. Anya’s right I felt justified treating you that way, thinking no one would care because you’re a vampire. Boy was I wrong, turns out there’s an entire government for demon & other creatures rights, I didn’t know. I hope you could forgive me & we can be friends?”

 

Spike looked at her in awe, “Course we can, as long as you forgive me?”

 

She smiles softly at him, “Its a deal.”

 

Everyone else involved followed Buffy’s lead and also apologised with hugs from the girls and a manly handshake from Giles, they were all ready to move forward onto better things, then Jonathan asked Anya a question and the answer had them frozen in shock.

 

“Anya? What did D.U.S.T. do to become famous across all creation?”

 

“Oh, they locked away The Masters of Evil.”

 

Giles asks the main question Everyone’s thinking. “Who are The Masters of Evil?”

 

“The very first evil in all existence.”

 

“But I met The First when it tried to get Angel to kill himself, you have to tell them it’s escaped Spike!” Buffy’s confusion turned into panic.

 

Anya interrupts before Spike can speak, “No, you didn’t.”

 

Buffy’s confusion was back tenfold, “I didn’t?”

 

“No, you’re referring to The First Evil, it’s only the first in this multiverse. However The Masters of Evil are the very first, the first in all creation, there’s 10 of them and they’re a million times worse.”

 

She swallows, “Oh.....it’s a good thing they’re locked up.”

 

“Yes it is, I don’t know what they did to get locked up, but it’s extremely classified only the higher ups in D.U.S.T. know, this usually means it’s something very serious and it’s easier not knowing.”

 

Giles clears his throat, “Well if they believe that, it’s probably for the best, who knows what they could have done. Anyway I think its best to proceed to the magic box, willow will be able to work on the robot.” They all nodded and gathered their stuff, once they were ready the phone rang.

 

******

 

Hyperion Hotel, Los Angeles, California

 

Angel was standing at the phone with the receiver to his ear listening to it ring, eventually someone picked up “Hello?”

 

“Buffy it’s Angel, we saw the storm yesterday, what happened?”

 

He listened closely to all the information, starting with Riley & Xander’s wish, then Salazar’s appearance, the information on his world, Spike’s call to D.U.S.T. and finally Salazar vs Glory the other big bad in Sunnydale.

 

“OK, me and my team will be there the day after tomorrow, you sound like you need all the help you can get.”

 

“Okay, more helps definitely of the good, bye Angel.”

 

“Bye Buffy.” After putting the phone down, he turned to face the others, he repeated everything he was told. Lorne, Doyle, Gunn, Kate, Fred, Lindsey, Wesley, Cordelia & Darla listened in shock.

 

Cordelia spoke up first, “So let me get this straight, Xander & Buffy’s boyfriend made a wish, which resulted in a dangerous human psychopath called Salazar coming here? he’s not only from a world where the good guys lost? But he’s the master of one of the strongest factions in that world? And he’s currently at war with a hell-god named Glory?”

 

Angel nods, “Yes, to all your questions.”

 

“I always knew Harris was an idiot.”

 

Lindsey interrupted, “Well, those two are definitely stupid, there’s no question. What I’m more interested about, is the reaction of the senior partners, if this guys dangerous enough to bring D.U.S.T. here, their not going to like it.”

 

Wesley spoke up at that, “Why ever not?”

 

“Because the senior partners avoid drawing their attention on purpose, its why they never really go over the top. If this guys that powerful even Wolfram & Harts going to want him gone.”

 

“Ah, I see, who are D.U.S.T. to incite a reaction like this?”

 

Gunn interrupted, “Seriously English? You watcher types don’t know the supernatural government?”

 

Wesley’s eyes widen with shock, “No, I can’t say I do, how is it you know about them?”

 

“I learned about them in Portland, they stopped an apocalypse. All Portland saw it, the sky ripped open and everything, these creatures like I’d never seen before came out, they were huge. After they stopped it they used this machine and a light flashed through the whole city, everyone instantly forgot what they saw, I remembered though and I got told by another vamp hunter that if you already know about the supernatural, it don’t wipe your memory.”

 

Lindsey chuckles, “Yeah I remember that, the senior partners were going ape shit, they wanted them gone the second they got here.”

 

Wesley was writing it down, “Fascinating, do either of you know what the creature’s were?”

 

Both shook they’re heads but Lindsey answered, “Not a clue, never seen anything like them myself. What I do know, is if D.U.S.T. get involved it’s something you normal white hats can’t handle.”

 

Kate interrupts, “As interesting as this is, I’d like to know how we’re going to deal with Salazar?”

 

Angel sighs, “I don’t know, he’s apparently a warlock and already has over 50 vampires working for him. He’s even apparently killed someone named Rack.”

 

Lindsey, Wesley & Lorne all gasped at that, “You told us about Willie’s, but not Rack Angel.” Wesley said

 

He shrugs, “I didn’t know who he was.”

 

Lindsey interrupts sarcastically, “And of course, if someone with a head & ego the size of yours doesn’t know him, then nobody else does.”

 

Angel growled at him. Cordelia, Darla, Kate, Doyle, Gunn & Wesley were attempting to hide their amusement. Fred still looked scared about Salazar and Lorne rolled his eyes then spoke.

 

“Rack, was an extremely dark and powerful warlock, if this Salazar killed him, he’s worse sugarplum.”

 

Everyone sobered at this, “Well, once we have Faith we’re going to Sunnydale, we have to stop him.” Angel said matter-of-factly.

 

Darla spoke up, “Yeah, I suppose we do, I just wonder what he’s up to right about now?”

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

Salazar looks round the giant factory with at least ten other buildings circling it, its located on the outskirts of town. It’s in great shape, he enters the room to see his minions, which now result in over 300 different demons, ranging from Vampires, Fyarls, Lei-Achs, Brachens, Polgaras and more. He levitates himself onto a platform so he’s looking down at them, they all look up at him ready for orders. 

 

“Hanson’s done well, gathering you all here, let’s get one thing straight. Just because I’m human doesn’t mean I can’t rip your intestines out and force feed them your families, do I make myself clear. “ They all nod, “Good, now as you’ve all been told I’m the new master of the Hellmouth, Glory and her dirty little followers are in my fucking way. She’s looking for the key, but the jumped up hell bitch won’t get it I will, I can’t seem to open a portal home and that just might help, Glory’s the main priority she wants to use the key, the slayer only wants to protect it. Now onto the main question where’s the Hellmouth located?”

 

A Brachen demon steps forward, “Under the library in the old high school Master.”

 

“Hang on, you’re telling me they were stupid enough to build a school on a Hellmouth?” 

 

“Yes Master.”

 

He shakes his head, “With thick cunts like that, it makes you wonder if you take the ‘Do Not Drink’ label off the bleach, how many would survive.” Multiple chuckles were heard in response. “OK, I want you to take me to it, I’d rather have it under my control than someone who’s clueless messing with it.”

 

The Brachen nods, “Of course Master.”

 

Salazar walks towards the exits and points to some nearby demons. “You Lot! Come with me.” They follow along behind him, just as he’s about to leave he turns. “Girls?” He purred out.

 

All the girls turned to face him, “Yes Master Salazar?”

 

“I want you to lead the rest and spruce this place up, your rooms were spotless back at the old place.” He winks then walks out.

 

******

 

Riley’s Apartment, Sunnydale, California

 

It’s 5 in the afternoon and Riley & Xander were still thinking of what happened yesterday.

 

“It’s Spike’s fault, if he didn’t exaggerate about evil humans we wouldn’t have made the wish.” Riley’s voice showed his irritation in the matter.

 

“Yeah, I know, he’s playing them all and they’re to stupid to see it.” ‘its obvious he’s working with this guy. If we can figure out how to remove him, we can confront Spike, but ho....’ Xander’s eye’s light up with his idea, he jumps to his feet. “I’ve got it! We can call the police on Salazar, I mean he’s human they can deal with him. Once he’s out the way we can deal with Spike.”

 

“That’s brilliant.” He gets up and goes to the phone, after dialling he waits it doesn’t take long.

 

“911, what’s your emergency?”

 

“I’d like to report a crime.”

 

******

 

Motel, Outside Sunnydale, California

 

Oz pulled up into a motel parking lot about 7pm that night, after exiting his van he hears a voice.

 

“Well, if it isn’t the wolf.”

 

He turns to see Ethan standing at the vending machine, “Ethan, are you responsible for what’s happening in Sunnydale?”

 

“Not this time I’m afraid, I’m going to help Ripper stop the problem....well as soon as he knows I’m here that is.”

 

“How long have you been here?”

 

“Since last night, I’ve been trying to pluck up the courage to approach, but whoever’s in town is powerful I can bloody feel it here.”

 

“And? You’re planning on helping stop it?”

 

“That’s the plan Wolfey.”

 

He sighs, “It’s Oz, looks like we’re allies in this.”

 

Ethan smirks, “That it does Wolfey, we might as well go into Sunnydale tomorrow, I’ve ordered take out. You can have some if you’re a good boy.” He walks back to his room waving Oz to follow.

 

Oz shakes his head as he follows him, “It’s Going to be a long night.”

 

******

 

 On Route To Sunnydale, California

 

Lawson was on the move again the second it got dark enough, ‘I should be in Sunnydale by tomorrow night, then I can figure out what’s going on, I just hope I’m not too late.'

 

******

 

Magic Box, Sunnydale, California

 

They’d been working all day, Willow was close to finishing with April but it was getting late. When the clock struck 8pm Joyce spoke up. “I say we call it a night, you can finish April tomorrow Willow, we still have to stay together until help arrives, so it’s back home for now.”

 

Everyone nodded and started getting ready, Willow walked over to Buffy. “Have you checked in on Riley to see if he’s alright? I know he and Xander are being poopheads but Hornet told us to protect them.”

 

“No, I tried ringing Xander earlier but no one picked up.”

 

Spike walks over, “Don’t worry slayer, I went to check on them before I went to sleep last night, their both at cardboards place.” Buffy & Willow just stared at him, “What? It’s not like I care, but I’m not pissing Hornet off.”

 

“OK, that makes sense and thanks for checking even though they don’t deserve it.” Buffy replied.

 

“Yeah thanks Spike.” Willow added on.

 

“No problem, we should get going.” They both nodded then left with the others.

 

******

 

Old Sunnydale High School, California

 

Salazar looks down at the seal with a raised eyebrow, “Well, Isn’t that fancy? What happened to the school anyway?”

 

The Brachen or ‘Cactus’ as he called him steps forward, “The Slayer, she blew it up with the mayor inside.”

 

“Ah, so he succeeded in his ascension then?”

 

Cactus nods, “Yes Master.”

 

“I see, it was good you decided to give me a tour of town before we came here. There’s a lot of useful places around, thanks to the Lei-Achs we even know where Glory lives. We’ll keep that knowledge secret for now though, don’t want the hell whore knowing, can’t do a sneak attack if they know it’s coming can you?”

 

“No, you can’t, she won’t know what hit her.”

 

“No, she won’t.”

 

******

 

Roaming Town, Sunnydale, California

 

Riley & Xander have been walking around town, trying to find Salazar’s hideout to catch him & Spike in the act.

 

Riley was getting more irritated by the minute. “Where are they? I need to prove to buffy that Spike’s evil so she’ll finally stake him.”

 

“I know man, we’ve been walking around for hours and there’s no sign of them.”

 

They started approaching the old burnt out high school, that’s when they noticed movement outside. Riley signalled Xander to follow him and they hid behind some bushes, there was multiple demons circling the building keeping watch.

 

“What do you think they’re doing?” Xander asked keeping his voice low.

 

“I don’t know, but they weren’t here last night.” Riley matched Xander’s tone.

 

“Do you think they’re working for Salazar?”

 

“That’s what I’m hoping, we might find him and Spike working on the next stage of his plan.”

 

After half an hour of waiting Salazar walks out, Riley & Xander’s irritation only increases when there’s no sign of Spike. They didn’t seem to notice Glory’s minions running away in the distance, more than likely to inform Glory what they saw. Riley pulls out a phone and tells the police they’ve spotted Salazar. Afterwards they have the brilliant idea to confront him.

 

“We know you’re working with Spike!” Riley’s anger clear in his voice.

 

Salazar turns to look at them, “Well, if it isn’t the soldier and....the other one. What makes you think I’m working with that bleached idiot?”

 

“Its obvious, we’re not stupid there’s no such thing as an evil human, you’re playing along with his delusion so he can trick the others.”

 

All the demons laugh at them, Salazar just looks at them like they’ve just said the stupidest thing he’s ever heard. “No, What’s obvious is you’re delusional. Now why don’t you fat mouthed wankers be good little retards and tell me where the slayers keeping the key before Glory finds it?”

 

Xander pales at the mention of the key but Riley looks more confused then ever. “I don’t know what you’re talking about, what key?”

 

Salazar smirks, “Well, isn’t that interesting, distrust In the ranks? because your little friend seems to know what I’m talking about.”

 

Riley side glances Xander and sees he’s pale, ‘What’s that about? I know Glory was looking for a key but no one told me anything about it. It looks like I’ve been kept in the dark, even by Xander I c......’ He’s brought out his thoughts by the sound of sirens in the distance. He doesn’t let Salazar know his jab got to him instead he smiles smugly. “Doesn’t matter what you think, the police will deal with you.” To his & Xander’s complete shock he just smirks again.

 

“Why don’t you boys head back, I’ll catch up later.” Salazar said to the demons, with a ‘Yes Master’ they melted into the shadows.

 

The police cars eventually came into view, they stopped near the curb and multiple police officers piled out. Then proceeded to point their guns at Salazar telling him to put his hands up, he obliged with a smile.

 

A male officer approached, “You fit the description of a man wanted on the suspicion of murder.”

 

“Nothing suspicious about it chap, names Salazar and I’ve killed so many people I’ve lost count.”

 

“Are you confessing?” 

 

He sighs, “You’re not a very bright bunch are you? Yes, that’s exactly what I’m doing.”

 

“Put your hands behind your back please sir.”

 

He does as he’s told, with one last smirk sent to Xander & Riley, he’s escorted to the car with the officer reading him his rights.

 

Xander turns to Riley after the cars depart, “We have to tell Buffy he’s looking for the key.”

 

“Its late, we’ll tell her tomorrow, its not like he can do anything locked up.” He turns and begins walking back to his apartment with Xander in toe.

 

******

 

Magic Box, Sunnydale, California

 

The next day the occupants of Revello drive, woke up early had breakfast then proceeded to the magic box. They’ve been here since 10am, by the time 11.30 rolled around Willow was finished with April.

 

“Guys! I’m done she’s all reprogrammed.” 

 

Giles walks over, “That’s brilliant Willow, can you switch her on? We have to inform her about Salazar. All being well she can add new information to her ‘databanks’ as you called them.”

 

She rolls her eye’s at him and his dislike for technology. “Yeah sure, one second.” She reaches down to flip the power switch. “There she’s on.”

 

April opens her eyes and looks round the room, she can see multiple people. They’re the same people she saw when she got here. Only now she knows all their names.

 

Giles approached her, “April? We need your help.” 

 

“What do you need Giles?”

 

He smiles satisfied that she seems to be working alright, he proceeds to tell her everything about Salazar and whatever else happened as well.

 

“So this Salazar’s our enemy? And he’s probably going to destroy the world?” He nods, “Well of course I’ll help, stopping evils what us good guys do.”

 

There were multiple reactions to her enthusiastic acceptance. Willow beamed. Tara smiled. Spike & Jonathan sighed. Buffy & Joyce frowned. Clem, Andrew & Giles nodded their approval and Dawn & Anya rolled their eyes.

 

“Excellent, you’ll be a good ally against him.”

 

Buffy speaks up, “Yeah the more the merrier, Angel and his team are showing up....either later today or tomorrow I can’t remember which.” She shrugs, “And then we have D.U.S.T. coming as well, Salazar won’t stand a chance.”

 

Spike rolls his eyes, “Ah, yes the great prancing poofter in his Angelmobile, coming to save the day.”

 

Everyone except April was amused by this, April was more confused then anything. The door to the shop opened before she could ask what was funny.

 

Riley & Xander walked in to see everyone laughing and they didn’t like that Spike was involved and not them. “What’s so funny?” Riley demanded

 

Buffy turned to him, “Just something Spike said.” ‘I know that will anger him even more, but I don’t care him and Xander are acting stupid. It’s got worse since Salazar’s appearance, it’s like they won’t acknowledge what they’ve done wrong and won’t accept he’s dangerous.’

 

“Oh, well enjoy the bloodsuckers jokes, since we got rid of the guy he’s playing you with.” He Snapped

 

Everyone went silent after that, “What?” her confusion clear.

 

Xander jumps in, “Yeah, we found Salazar with a group of demons at the old high school.”

 

“And you two pillocks didn’t think it was a good idea to.....oh I don’t know, inform us he was spotted at the HELLMOUTH?!!” Giles voice went from angry to sarcastic, back to angry and ended on enraged.

 

Everyone was looking at them in anger, “Well, it was late last night and Joyce said we weren’t allowed there without her say-so.” Xander said defensively.

 

“Don’t try to pin this on mom! We have something called a phone Xander.” Buffy’s angry voice broke in the conversation.

 

“I know, but like Riley said last night, it was late, I wanted to come and tell you that Salazar’s after the key before Glory can get it......” He trails off when everyone except Andrew, Jonathan, Clem & April go pale at the news. ‘Wait, even Spike’s paler than usual, that means he knows! So maybe we were wrong? Maybe Spike isn’t working with Salazar? Because if he was why would Salazar still be looking for it?’

 

“He wants to use the key?” Dawn’s small voice interrupted the silence. ‘Me, he wants me, Oh God!’ “Not only is Glory looking for it, but now Salazar?”

 

Joyce takes Dawn in her arms rocking her and whispering soothing words only loud enough for her to hear, “Its okay sweetheart, I won’t let him get you.”

 

Spike overhearing Joyce, says out loud, “We won’t let him get it, God knows what damage he could bloody do.” 

 

Giles is cleaning his glasses, “No, we won’t allow him access to the key, but It looks like we figured out what him & Glory started their war over.”

 

Buffy who’s still a bit pale nods, “The Key, they’re fighting to get to it first.”

 

“I think Salazar’s figured out he can’t get home himself and he’s looking for the key to help.” Anya puts in the conversation.

 

Giles nods, “I believe that’s true.”

 

Riley interrupts, “You don’t have to worry about him anymore.”

 

Spike looks at him in suspicion, “What you done soldier boy?”

 

“Why, worried about your accomplice?” He shoots back with his own suspicion.

 

“FOR GOD SAKE RILEY!!!” Buffy screamed, “Just answer the fucking question.” She continued in anger. ‘I hope mom won’t be mad at me for swearing, he just makes me so angry sometimes. He’s still being an idiot thinking Spike’s working with Salazar, which is stupid because from his fear alone I know he’s not.’

 

Everyone’s shocked at her outburst but they understand the seriousness of the situation. Riley though has a mixture of different emotions on his face. From shock, hurt and anger. 

 

“Fine! With him being human we called the police on him, like you should have done when he showed up.”

 

Spike jumps to his feet, “You did what! You’re both completely insane! He’s to bloody dangerous they can’t handle him.”

 

“Well he’s obviously not, they arrested him last night.” Riley replies smugly.

 

“The only sodding way he would let them is......” Spike trails off when his eyes widen with realisation.

 

“Is what Spike?” Buffy’s worried voice cuts in.

 

He shakes his head and speaks in a shocked voice, “Is if he wanted them to, he bloody knew.....bugger he knew.” At everyone’s confused look he continues, “Salazar knew that soldier boy didn’t take him seriously, one thing that was drilled home by Sirrus is Salazar’s not stupid. He went out knowing with cardboards denial he’d end up calling the sodding cops, Salazar let them take him.....just where he wanted to be.”

 

Giles eyes widened with realisation. “Get weapons, hopefully we aren’t too late to stop him.”

 

“We’ll meet you there watcher.” Giles nods at him, the rest gather weapons and run out the shop, Spike & Clem go to the basement towards the sewers.

 

******

 

Motel, Outside Sunnydale, California

 

With everything packed in his van Oz & Ethan got in and set of towards the town. “I just hope we aren’t too late, we have to find Giles and the others they can tell us what’s going on.”

 

“Yes, Ripper always has the uncanny ability to know everything.”

 

“We’ll check his apartment first.”

 

“Whatever you say Wolfey.”

 

After a awhile they entered Sunnydale, driving downtown Ethan sees Giles and the others making their way towards the police station carrying weapons.

 

“Either somethings going down at the police station or Ripper's looking to get himself nicked.”

 

Oz turns to see what he’s looking at, “let’s go find out.”

 

******

 

Sunnydale Police Department, California

 

After arriving Buffy Bursts through the doors the others in toe. They brought everyone, they couldn’t risk Salazar attacking the magic box after they left. The sight inside makes them all freeze in horror, Joyce acts quickly and covers Dawn’s eyes, but a minute to late for she let’s out a blood-curdling scream. Spike & Clem crash through the doors behind them and stop dead at the sight. Every police officers dead, some with bullet wounds in their heads and some hanging from the ceiling. The only thing they all have in common is the ‘S.S.’ branded on their cheeks.

 

Buffy looks around in horror and tears, “Why would he do this?”

 

“So there’s no law in Sunnydale.” Giles answers grimly.

 

“What will that accomplish?” Joyce asks in a shaky voice.

 

“Him owning Sunnydale completely and the human criminals have the freedom to do what they please, including working for him.”

 

Spike looking around finds a video tape with ‘Watch This Slayer’ written on it. “Buffy? Look.” He passes the tape over.

 

Buffy reads it, “He’s left me a tape?”

 

“I have a video player at the shop, I suggest we head back this is no place for Dawn & Joyce.” Giles informs her.

 

“Oh God! Mom! Dawnie! Why didn’t you wait outside?”

 

“You know we couldn’t risk it Buffy, Salazar could’ve still been out there.”

 

“You’re right he could, we should head back to the magic box but....I can’t leave them like that.” She points towards the bodies.

 

Spike interrupts, “You literally have no choice Buffy.” ‘I’m not risking calling her slayer at the moment, not after he left that sodding tape in the middle of this.”

 

Buffy looks at him confused, “Why?”

 

“Becau.....” He’s cut off by Riley

 

“Because he’s a bloodthirsty animal, when are you going to understand that Buffy?” Riley cuts in on his way to the bodies, the second he touches one his hand starts to burn. “Ahhhh! What The Hell?!”

 

Spike continues, “Because if sodding soldier boy let me finish, I could have told you I can smell magic. It’s something Salazar’s well known for, cursing his victims bodies. They’re his calling card anyone tries moving the bodies It feels like they’ve put their hand in acid.”

 

Jonathan steps forward, “That’s what the ‘S.S.’ stands for their his initials.”

 

“I think so, I didn’t know he had more than one name Sirrus never told me. We should leave watcher the only people who know how to break the curse is him or D.U.S.T. and they’re not here yet.”

 

“Of course, let’s go.” They all leave the station, then go to a shadowed part of the alley for Spike.

 

Once outside Riley’s at it again, “This plan of yours has gone far enough Spike, people are dying, own up to it already.” 

 

Everyone even Xander looked at him like he was insane. Giles though went for a different approach, he grabbed him by the shirt. “Listen here you little pillock, the only reason those poor sods are dead is because you & Xander had the stupid idea to call them in the first place. Proving once again you little bastards believed you knew better than everyone else. We have told you time and time again, Spike’s on our side in this, you wished that psychopath here & Spike’s called for help, if you can’t get out of that denial and help us against Salazar then both of you piss off and stop getting in the fucking way.” He releases Riley, “You two little wankers want to get out my face before I put you both in a sodding coma.”

 

Xander & Riley look at everyone else trying to find support, only to see disappointment, anger or disgust. They both turn and walk away Xander in defeat & Riley still in denial.

 

After they leave everyone else hears slow clapping followed by a voice most remember pretty well. “Well, there’s the Ripper I remember.”

 

Everyone spins round to face a smirking Ethan Rayne. “Ethan, what the bloody hell are you doing here?” Giles demanded.

 

“I’ve come to help Ripper, you see this...Salazar as you called him, is even giving me bad vibes.”

 

Buffy interrupts with a huff, “You just expect us to believe you? For all we know you’re probably working with Salazar.”

 

He scoffs, “Oh Please, at least give me a little credit, of course I didn’t expect you to believe me. That’s why I brought proof.”

 

Oz steps into view and nearly everyone gasps, “Hi guys, Ethan’s telling the truth, we’re here to help.”

 

Willow speaks up, “Oz?”

 

“Yeah it’s me.” He’s greeted with hugs and hand shakes.

 

Giles nods, “Alright, I suggest we all return to the magic box, we can inform Oz & Ethan about the events as we know them.” Everyone agreed and started making there way back, Oz insisted that Spike and Clem get in the back of his van, telling them it will be safer than taking the sewers. After they agreed Oz fetched it and reversed it in the alley entrance. When Spike, Clem, Ethan, Oz & Giles were in the van, Giles tells them to pull up in the magic box alley. He’s going ahead to unlock the shop for everyone else.

 

******

 

Just Outside Sunnydale, California

 

Lawson found shelter as soon as it started getting light, ‘When it gets dark I’m going to find Spike, hopefully he can tell me what’s happening I’m not looking forward to seeing ‘Peaches’ but I don’t have much choice.’

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

Salazar’s just finished in the shower, he walks out completely naked not bothered at all. Multiple female vamps watch him with lust in their eyes, some of the males in the room are more intrigued with his tattoo. The head of the snakes just the start, the body of it starts going down his back wraps round his front, crosses his stomach circles round his back again, passes over the top of his left buttock wraps again passing the left side of his groin then continues wrapping itself all the way down his left leg finishing with its tail tip on his big toe. Some of the other males looked insecure over multiple things be it his muscular build or the size of his tool, which some of the girls were openly staring at. All of a sudden clothes started materialising on his body.

 

He smirked at the looks of disappointment on the girls faces, “No need for that look, you girls might get the chance to see it again, if you’re bad that is.” They grin at his words, “So, according to my magical warning system placed on the cop shop, I know the slayer and company arrived a couple of minutes ago. That soldier and his bum chum took long enough to tell them, I hope she finds my tape enjoyable. Anyway I’ve got a feeling they’ll be here soon, then the fun can really begin.”

 

****** 

 

Riley’s Apartment, Sunnydale, California

 

After arriving back they both sat in silence, Riley was thinking about how to finally prove it’s Spike’s fault. ‘I can’t believe the rest don’t see it, they must be under thrall. There’s no other reason for them to be acting this way.’

 

Xander’s thoughts were a little different however. ‘We’re idiots, Giles was right we got all the police killed, not just them every death since Salazar got here’s been our fault. All because we didn’t want to believe a human could be evil, from what I seen at the station, I’ve been proven wrong. I’ve also been proven wrong about Spike, he knew all along who the key is, that means he’s not working with Salazar at all. I just regret that people had to die for me to see it, I have to find a way to make amends.’ He’s brought out his thoughts by Riley’s voice.

 

“We need to find another way to prove Spike’s evil.”

 

“Riley man, I think we need to stop, we’ve just got the whole police force killed.”

 

“No Spike did, if he would just tell the truth....” He’s cut off by Xander.

 

“NO! It’s our fault, god I know I’m bad with denial but you need help man.”

 

Riley looks at him suspiciously, “When did Spike get you under his thrall?”

 

“WHAT?! Seriously?! Instead of accepting fault, like I have, you automatically jump to thrall? Spike doesn’t have thrall, even I know that.” His voice was full of disbelief.

 

“He has to have thrall. You saw the truth before today and now you’re on his side.” He noticed Riley avoided all his questions.

 

“No Riley, I’m on the right side finally. As for seeing the truth you’re wrong, I didn’t see it earlier, I do now. Spike’s not working with Salazar, all we were doing was looking for someone else to pin the blame on instead of accepting it and Spike drew the short straw, like he always does with us.”

 

Riley shakes his head in denial, “No! He has to be, I’m the hero not the villain.”

 

“No he’s not Riley, Spike’s known where the key’s been all this time, if he was working with Salazar why wouldn’t he tell him.” ‘Dam he’s deep in denial, he’s not hearing a word I’m saying.’

 

“Oh you mean ‘the key’ that no one’s told me anything about? Spike’s trust worthy enough for the information but I’m not?” anger filled his voice.

 

“With the way you’re acting can you blame us, I’m surprised they told me to begin with. Especially if I was acting like you are.” Xander storms towards the door.

 

“Where are you going?”

 

He turns to face him, “This place is grand denial station, if staying here means not wising up then I’m leaving. It’s time to see the world as it really is.” With those parting words he left.

 

******

 

Hyperion Hotel, Los Angeles, California

 

Everyone was in the lobby talking and Wesley was on the phone when the doors opened and a voice cut in. “So, what’s the sitch?”

 

Everyone turned to the entrance but Angel spoke, “Faith? You should have called, someone would have come to get you.”

 

“It’s fine I got a ride, you got quite a few faces round here, so I’ll ask again what’s big enough for you to get little old me out the big house?”

 

He sighs and tells her everything they know. Her eyes widen the more she learns, its the last bit that does it. “He’s also apparently killed slayers, he showed no fear whatsoever towards Buffy.”

 

“Shit, this guys killed slayers? He sounded bad enough with a name like Salazar, can it get worse?”

 

Wesley interrupts, “I’m afraid it can.” They turn to see him putting the phone down.

 

Angel steps forward, “What’s happening Wes?”

 

He starts cleaning his glasses, “That was Giles on the phone.....Salazar’s killed all of Sunnydale’s police force.” Everyone gasps at his word’s. He explains the rest, Ethan & Oz showing up, the reason the police got involved, Salazar being spotted at the Hellmouth, him searching for the key and finally the state the bodies were in and the curse on them. By the end everyone looked like they wanted to be sick.

 

“That’s it, let’s kick this guys ass.” Faith’s voice was full of determination.

 

“We’ll be heading for Sunnydale the second it’s dark enough.” Angel growled out.

 

******

 

Magic Box, Sunnydale, California

 

Giles just put the phone down then addressed everyone, “I’ve just spoken to Wesley and informed him of the police force’s demise. They have Faith with them.”

 

Buffy gaped for a second then thought about it. ‘With the situation we’re in she’ll help, I don’t have to like it though.’ “That’s probably for the best, we need all the help we can get. I’m not being nice to her though.”

 

Giles smiles at her, “Perish the thought, but you are correct another slayer may turn the tide in our favour.”

 

Buffy nods, “So who else is coming with them?”

 

Giles cleans his glasses, “Well, from what I’m told there’s 11 of them. Wesley, Angel, Winifred, Cordelia, Faith, Charles Gunn, Doyle, Lorne, Lindsey McDonald, Kate Lockley and......Darla.” The shop erupted at that.

 

“WHAT?! Giles Darla’s Dead!” Buffy shouted.

 

“I thought that whore dusted!” Spike put in.

 

Before anyone else said anything Giles explained. “Yes! She was but according to Wesley, Wolfram & Hart brought her back from the dead as a human. One of the lawyers, Lindsey McDonald to be precise started growing attached to her, as a result she wasn’t doing what she was meant to. This resulted in Wolfram & Hart planning to take them both out, however they found out and went to Angel for protection.”

 

“So she’s human? Great at least I don’t have to worry about her trying to eat anyone.” Buffy responded.

 

Oz finishes setting the video player up. “Guys, it’s done when you’re ready we can watch the tape.”

 

Buffy grab the tape, “Okay, I don’t think i want Dawn watching this.”

 

Ethan cuts in, “I think she needs to, Salazar’s a threat to all of us, she’s chosen her side the same as we all have. This means your sister is his enemy whether you like it or not. She’s not a child and I think she has the bloody right to see first hand what her enemy is capable of.”

 

No one could think of a counter argument to that. “You’re right, she needs to know, if it gets to much I want you to look away ok Dawnie?”

 

Dawn nods as Buffy puts the tape in.

 

******

 

Security Footage – Start

 

Salazar’s led through the doors to the station, he smirks at the security camera. After he’s seated on a chair for processing, he stands up. Then breaks the handcuffs like they were nothing. “Well, thanks for being so welcoming but I’ve got shit to do.” The officers withdraw their guns telling him to ‘get down on the ground’.

 

“I’d rather not, fuck knows what’s on your floor.” He goes to grab something from the waistband of his pants after ignoring their ‘put your hands where we can see them' commands some of the police fired at him thinking it’s a weapon. Only to stare in shock when he raises his hand and all the bullets stop inches away from him.

 

“Well that wasn’t very nice of you, who am I kidding? That’s what you American police are famous for, shoot first ask questions later. Let’s see how you like it." He flicks his fingers and the bullets go hurtling back across the room and into the heads of the officers who fired them. Then he makes a fist and wires shoot out the ceiling hanging the ones left.

 

He turns to look at the camera, “Enjoying the show slayer? I knew if I left a tape with your name on it you wouldn’t be able to resist. I can make it better though, watch this.” He finishes with a smirk, holds out his hand and a metal brand with the initials ‘S.S.’ materialises out of nowhere and the end randomly heats up. He then proceeds to brand everyone in the station.

 

“You see, the longer you keep the key from me the more people die, after I’ve finished playing with Glory you’re next. Hey can’t say I didn’t warn you.” The tape ends after that.

 

Security Footage – End

 

******

 

Everyone was sat in silence when the tape ended.

 

Ethan breaks the silence, “I’ve never seen power like it, he didn’t even bloody mutter an incantation. To cast magic like that without saying a word, we’re in for the fight of our lives.”

 

Jonathan pipes up, “I’m more concerned that Salazar has a surname, that means he probably has family.”

 

“Of course! How stupid of me, I’ve been thinking of him like our usual enemies, but the fact he’s human might very well mean he has relatives. I know before anyone states it, demons have families also but how many times apart from Spike, Angelus & Drusilla do we usually encounter a family that’s a threat and works together?” Giles said with irritation at his lack of thinking.

 

“We don’t, but the thing I’m worried about is that if Salazar has a family, who’s to say they aren’t like him?” Anya put in.

 

They were speechless at that until Buffy having just thought of something voiced it. “Giles? If Salazar has a family, how do we know they’re not looking for him?” Her voice full of fear.

 

The occupants of the magic box felt dread at the thought.

Notes:

Well, Xander’s out of denial in this chapter, who's to say it will stay that way though? The alliance is starting to form, the last allies will arrive in the next chapter. Buffy & Spike are starting to grow close, what new information will be revealed in the future to help their new friendship became more?

I've used the seal from season 7 for the Hellmouth, I don't recall them visiting it in season 5 & 6. The line Anya drops about Buffy seeing Angel & Riley together is a reference from the season 4 episode 'The Yoko Factor' the line was a little vague lol.

I've gone through this chapter just like the last one, I couldn't find anymore mistakes I've done multiple read throughs, hopefully no mistakes went missed. Let me know what you think.

Chapter 4: Chapter 4 - Allies Arrival

Magic Box, Sunnydale, California

 

Their thoughts were interrupted at the opening of the door signalling someone coming in, they turned to see Xander enter the shop.

 

“I’m sorry, you were right, it’s mine & Riley’s fault all of this.” He apologised. ‘Whoa, is that Oz & ETHAN?!!!! I’ll ask later I’ve got to get this out.’

 

Giles looks at him suspiciously, “What made you see sense? I find it hard to believe that you just had an epiphany.”

 

“Well, that’s what happened, I realised Spike wasn’t working with Salazar because his reaction when he found out he’s looking for the key. Spike’s known all along where it is and I finally realised that if he was working with Salazar he would have told him. As for the danger we’ve put everyone in, I didn’t want to accept that a human could be evil but after seeing what happened at the police station reality hit hard. I’m not expecting you to forgive me, hell I don’t want you to, I’m just asking for the chance to make amends and to help fight the real enemy?”

 

“Well, I’m glad you’ve managed to accept the truth of the situation and like you said you are not forgiven but we’ll allow you to make amends. I guess it’s too much to ask that Riley had the same epiphany?”

 

He snorts, “Fat chance of that, he’s still looking for a way to blame it all on Spike. He thinks that because you won’t see his way Spike’s got you all under thrall, when I tried to talk some sense into him he thought I got thralled as well.”

 

People either snorted, scoffed or sighed at the news.

 

Giles put his head in his hands, “What a pillock.”

 

“I don’t sodding have a thrall.” Spike put in.

 

“I know, that’s what I told him but he wouldn’t listen because he said ‘I’m the hero not the villain’ I think being in the military makes him think he can’t do anything wrong.”

 

Giles lifts his head from his hands, “I knew he was in denial, I didn’t have the slightest idea how bad it was.”

 

“Join the club, I only realised after I had my epiphany.”

 

Ethan chuckles, “Well, your boyfriend sounds like a barrel of laughs slayer, it’s like he’s treating all this like a fantasy.”

 

“Ex-boyfriend, I can’t keep putting up with his delusion he’s got people killed, but instead of accepting that and owning up to it he’s trying to pin the blame on Spike. And you’re right, he doesn’t take this world seriously, he doesn’t even take me seriously he treats me like just a girl who needs protecting. In his fantasy world he’s the hero and I’m the girlfriend, well not anymore I’m done.” Buffy informed him matter-of-factly.

 

Dawn jumps in at that, “Finally, you’ve seen what most of us have been saying for ages.”

 

“Yeah, I was in denial, if one good thing came out of Salazar being here it was that its finally forced me to wake up.”

 

Dawn snickers, “Its ironic, the situation that forces you to see the truth and break up with Riley, is a situation Riley himself started.”

 

“Yeah I know, it’s completely ridiculous but I know he’ll find a way to blame Spike.”

 

“What did you ever see in that great oaf slayer?” Ethan asks with genuine curiosity.

 

“I don’t know at the time he seemed nice and normal.”

 

He raises a shocked eyebrow, “He worked for a organisation that sodding cut open sentient beings, if that’s your nice and normal I think you need your head checking.” No one said anything to Ethan in Buffy’s defence because they all new he was right.

 

Her eyes filled with shame, “I get that now, but at the time I thought all humans were good, I didn’t really see anything wrong with it at the time, I just thought it was making my life easier.”

 

He scoffs, “So unless an evil humans someone you have to fight you ignore their existence? What am I saying the amount of times I’ve messed with you and you still believed it, I should be offended.”

 

Buffy was speechless, she had no idea what to say because Ethan’s right, she had faced evil humans before then conveniently forgot about them till they showed up again. Except with Salazar he’s not one that can be easily dealt with so it effectively destroyed that belief.

 

“You’re right again, I did face other evil humans in the past but forced myself to forget them to keep my belief. But with Salazar not being as simple to stop as the one’s before, it’s essentially dragged me kicking and screaming out of that belief, where he proceeded to destroy it so I can never go back.”

 

Ethan nods, “Yes, Salazar’s bad enough to make us join forces. I have to ask though if this was enough to knock you out of denial, what’s this Riley’s problem?”

 

She sighs, “I don’t know, I don’t think he’s going to survive this though, with him not taking it seriously he’s gonna eventually try and face Salazar himself and it’s going to get him killed.” Everyone including Xander nodded along to that statement.

 

Oz raises his hand, “You’ve mostly all changed since I left, I think its time to tell you the other reason I left. You know most of them, except the one I never told you and I didn’t tell you at the time because I knew what you’re reaction would be.”

 

Everyone except Anya, Clem, Spike & Ethan looked confused, those four already having an idea what he’s going to say.

 

Xander asked first, “What do you mean man, what other reason?”

 

“Because of the way you all acted, your demon hatred started getting out of control and with me not being able to control my wolf, you would all eventually remember that I am one. I feared it would only be a matter of time before I became a target of your hatred, then throw the initiative in on the top I was terrified, I was scared at accepting what I am because the way you lot would have treated me and as Spike can tell you the first step to controlling your demon, is accepting its there in the first place.” 

 

Everyone sees Spike nod at that, Oz continues on. “So, after the thing with Veruca happened I left to find help controlling it, hoping when I got back it would be better. Only I return and it’s worse, I’m not talking about Willow moving on, I expected that could happen, I’m talking about not only is Buffy dating one of the soldier’s you’re all essentially bullying a defenceless Spike. What makes it worse you weren’t bullying him over the stuff he’d done in the past, you were doing it over the fact he couldn’t feed or defend himself & that made me sick. Then I get captured too by Buffy’s boyfriend’s place of work, I know you rescued me but Buffy made it obvious she wasn’t going to dump him so I could feel safe around you, it made me feel like you didn’t care. So yeah I had to leave again, sorry everyone else who wasn’t involved, I had a lot to get off my chest.” The people involved had stricken expressions and were crying.

 

Ethan pats his shoulder, “Nothing to apologise for Wolfey, they needed to see that the world doesn’t revolve around them.”

 

Spike pats his other shoulder, “Yeah mate don’t apologise, if you didn’t get it off your chest it would have just grown and gotten worse.”

 

“I told them earlier about how I felt around Riley, it’s good to hear I wasn’t the only one who felt that way.” Anya said matter-of-factly.

 

“I’m so sorry Oz, I didn’t even realise how our actions were affecting you, I wasn’t even thinking how uncomfortable you would be feeling around Riley, I just wanted a normal boyfriend like everyone else kept telling me I needed. I’m sorry I’ve realised how wrong the way I acted is I hope you can forgive me in time.” Buffy’s face was still wet from her tears.

 

“Thank you Buffy, of course I forgive you, we can start again I’d like very much to know this non bigoted you.” She smiles and nods at him.

 

Giles clears his throat, “Oz I must sincerely apologise for my actions also, I didn’t realise you felt that way, or like a lot of problems within the group I chose not to acknowledge it, I’d like very much to start again also?”

 

“Yeah Giles, I’d like that too.” They shook hands.

 

Willow speaks up, “I’m so sorry as well, I didn’t think about that and I’m sorry.” She still had tears streaming down her face.

 

“It wasn’t really you, you’re a kind hearted person Willow, the problems came when you just went along with it and didn’t say anything, but I’d like to be friends if you will?” She nods with a smile.

 

Xander finally cuts in, “Oz I’m sorry man, I didn’t think about any of it, and you’re right if you would’ve told me back then I wouldn’t have wanted to hear it. But I’ve accepted I was in the wrong.”

 

Oz just looks at him with a blank expression, “You were one of the worst, you didn’t think because you didn’t care, you just took your anger out on anything not human that it was acceptable to beat. Wanting to think all humans good, all demons bad, if the world was that simple it wouldn’t be nearly as screwed up as it is.”

 

“I know I get that now and I’m sorry.”

 

“I accept your apology but you’ve only just come out of denial, I need to wait to see if you’ll revert back before I forgive you.”

 

He nods, “Ok I can understand that.”

 

Everyone else watching on smiles except Ethan who decides to voice a thought. “Sorry to ruin the moment but I have to ask, are you genuinely sorry or are you just apologising to get out of trouble with D.U.S.T.?” At Buffy, Willow & Giles hurt looks he carries on, “So you are sorry, I apologise for being insensitive, it’s just I’ve grown attached to the wolf and had to be sure, you understand?” the three in question nod. 

 

Xander’s reaction to the question however was confusion. “What’s the people Spike called got to do with this?”

 

Everyone remembered Xander wasn’t there for that discussion and fills him in. They tell him about the demon who made the wish, D.U.S.T., multiverse’s, The Masters of Evil, Angel & his team coming, everything he missed. Little did they know they even shocked Oz & Ethan with some of it.

 

“Wow, okay let me get this straight, the demon that cast the wish is a denial demon? We’ve been unknowingly breaking the law by being nasty to demons for no reason? The biggest bads are known as The Masters of Evil who got locked away for god knows what? Angel and his team are coming with Darla who just happens to be human? And Salazar may have family looking for him?” Xander asked in a shocked voice.

 

Buffy nods, “Yes, to all your questions.”

 

“Holy Cow! I missed a lot but at the moment I’m more worried about Salazar’s possible family, we have enough with just him, I don’t like the thought of more of them turning up.”

 

Giles sighs, “Nor do we, its possible they could bring his armies here but even if they didn’t, more enemies with Salazar’s power level on his side, is definitely not something we can handle.”

 

Everyone nodded in agreement then Ethan spoke up, “I Just hope bloody Salazar’s not up to anything more dangerous.”

 

****** 

 

Sunnydale Military Base, California

 

Salazar’s currently choking the life out of a soldier, the raid on the base is going well, the demon & human minions are currently loading the weapons into black SUVs. All the military vehicles are already on the way back to base. Salazar ordered all communications out of Sunnydale blocked, so the soldier’s can’t call for reinforcements, after the soldiers dead he drops his corpse to the ground.

 

One of the humans working for him runs over, “All the weapons are loaded up boss.”

 

“Good, and the charges?”

 

“All hooked up ready for your word boss.”

 

“Excellent, just what I like to here. Boys! We’re Done Here!”

 

They all get in the SUVs and start driving off, Salazar holds out his hand someone hands him a detonator, after getting far enough away he presses it and the whole base explodes.

 

Riley who was watching nearby gets knocked back by the blast, after getting up and looking at the remains of the base, he begins to limp away.

 

****** 

 

Glory’s Apartment, Sunnydale, California

 

Glory’s pacing back and forth, her little skirmishes with Salazar are getting her nowhere, he still has her jinxy their no closer to finding him. ‘Salazar’s nothing but a little worm he’s stepping up his efforts to find MY key, my minions even saw him at the Hellmouth they didn’t get close enough to hear him though, he’s becoming even more of a pain than before I need to find out what he’s planning. When I get my hands on him I’m going to enjoy crushing him like the bug he is.’

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

As all the SUVs pulled up the minions started taking the weapons to a building that Salazar made the armoury, he got out the back of one of them and started making his way inside. All the minions that stayed behind turned to him as he entered the main room.

 

“That’s the Sunnydale military base out of commission and outside communications have been stopped, there’s officially no law in Sunnydale and no help coming, until they arrive that is.” The room erupted into cheers and laughter.

 

“Yes it’s brilliant, now has their been any news on Glory?” He asked when the excitement died down.

 

Hanson steps forward, “She hasn’t left her apartment master, we believe she’s scared of you."

 

“I’m glad you all think so, but alas no she isn’t scared, the hell whore doesn’t know anything about me and instead of lowering herself to find out on her lonesome, she’s having her minions watch me. She can’t honestly believe I haven’t spotted the scabby little fuckers? Anyway she’s waiting for more information before she makes her move, her egos big enough that she believes if she can’t find the key I can’t either. Meaning she thinks she’s got fuck all to worry about, which I find rather insulting but I’ve been to busy to deal with her personally, I think its time I rectify that don’t you? We’re going to give her a little present tonight.”

 

******

 

Just Outside Sunnydale, California

 

Lawson was sitting around waiting for dark, ‘It’ll be dark soon, then it’s time to find out what’s happening, I have a feeling of dread washing over me and I’m not sure why, it’s like my demon knows whatever’s happening in Sunnydale’s serious. That just means I’m needed all the more.

 

******

 

Magic Box, Sunnydale, California

 

They were all sitting talking when Riley came limping into the shop. Before anyone could say anything he spoke. “Salazar attacked the Sunnydale military base, stole all the weapons then blew the place sky high. He’s even cut all communication out of town, the phones don’t work.”

 

Everyone gasps at the news, Anya runs to try the phone to discover Riley’s right.

 

Ethan speaks up, “bloody brilliant, just what we need, his minions carrying military grade hardware around.”

 

Giles nods, “Yes, it would appear this situation has gotten significantly worse.”

 

Riley just now spotting Ethan exclaims, “You! How’d you get out? There’s no escaping that facility.”

 

He rolls his eyes, “Obviously there is because here I am, you soldier types aren’t the brightest bulbs in the shed are you? They didn’t believe magic existed you moron and with me being able to do it easily escaped.”

 

“What are you all doing with him? He could be working with Salazar.”

 

Spike jumps to his feet, “That’s just like you isn’t it you bloody wanker, can’t find a way to pin your problems on me then pin them on Ethan, he’s a bad guy right? So he must be involved. Have you ever sodding thought that Salazar’s dangerous enough to do it all himself? And what happens when you have common enemies? You join forces you sodding wanker!”

 

“You’re both evil and working with Salazar I’ll find a way to prove it.” Riley sneered.

 

Buffy’s had it, “That’s enough Riley! You’re going to far, Spike’s right you’re just pointing fingers at anyone that’s done anything wrong in the past, are you going to start accusing me because I’ve had detention in the past? Even Xander’s finally acknowledged the truth. You won’t accept.....” She trails off as somethings just occurred to her.

 

She looks at Riley, disgust & realisation written across her features and continues. “But you did accept humans could be evil, you called Spike & Ethan evil, the reason you won’t accept Salazar’s evil is because on some level your sub conscience accepted he’s here because of you didn’t it? And instead of accepting it, you’re pushing the blame off on anyone just so you don’t have to acknowledge it. If Spike & Ethan wasn’t here, you would have just as easily blamed one of us wouldn’t you?” Him trying to think of a response tells her what she needs to know. “I think you should go.”

 

Before Riley can even reply Ethan walks over and blows some powder in his face, he falls to the floor out cold.

 

“What’d you do?” Spike asked curiously.

 

He shrugs, “Put the great oaf to sleep, Sirrus is going to want to meet the muppets responsible for this mess.”

 

Spike nods, “Yeah you’re right.” He picks Riley up while Oz & Xander dragged a training mat out the back, after getting it set up in the back of the shop floor Spike dumps him on it.

 

“How longs it going to last?” Buffy asks Ethan.

 

“A couple of hours at least.”

 

She nods as Spike walks over, “That was quick thinking mate.”

 

“Thank you, its not everyday my efforts get noticed.”

 

Spike nods, “I get that. Now what are we going to do about Salazar.”

 

“How about some help chief?”

 

They all spin to the door, they didn’t notice it got dark or someone came in the shop, everyone was staring curiously at the unknown man. It’s when Spike addressed him that they all understood.

 

“Lawson?” Spike’s voice was full of amazed wonder.

 

“Yeah chief its me.”

 

Spike walked across the room and they embraced like long lost brothers, he then introduced him to everyone else, after introductions were done everyone filled him in on the events up to yet.

 

“So, Salazar’s here? Dam he’s been busy, it’s a good thing I came then, if there’s a chance you fall in this fight then I’m falling with you brother.”

 

Spike had tears in his eyes, “Thanks for coming mate.”

 

“You’re like a brother to me, nowhere else I’d rather be in a time like this.”

 

All the women were nearly in tears at the scene before them, the men except Xander, were smiling at it. Xander felt uncomfortable about the fact another vampire was here, but with him already being on thin ice in the group chose wisely to keep his mouth shut. They all got to know Lawson better, well except Riley who was still asleep. The door opening again made them all turn to see Angel and his team arrive. Xander again looked uncomfortable at the sight of Lorne and didn’t like that Angel was here but again kept his mouth shut.

 

Angel was gobsmacked at seeing Lawson there. “Lawson? What are you doing here?”

 

Lawson looked at him in distain, “I’m here to help stop Salazar, Peaches.”

 

He looks confused, “What do you know about him?”

 

“I was there when Sirrus & Hornet told Spike about him back in WW2.” He said it like it was obvious.

 

Faith was looking at him appreciatively, “Who’s the hunk?”

 

Buffy interrupts, “Angel turned him back in WW2, He came to help just like you guys. And yes Angel I know about the German sub, but we have bigger problems at the moment. We will talk about it though.”

 

Angel’s team was looking at him angrily for keeping that a secret but stayed silent, Buffy was right they had bigger problems.

 

Angel nods, “You’re right Salazar’s the problem, we have to stop him.”

 

Giles filled them in on what Riley told them, then introductions took place. After Darla steps forward. “I’m sorry about everything that happened, I’m here to help if that means anything.”

 

Giles nodded, “Thank you, your help is much appreciated, we don’t have time for vendettas with the danger Salazar poses.” He made it clear he was talking to everyone with that statement.

 

Everyone even Xander & Angel nodded in agreement. Kate spoke up, “Now that’s settled, can we talk about how this guys minions are carrying military weapons?”

 

Giles sighs, “It’s a truly terrifying situation I agree, Salazar’s also cut all communication out of Sunnydale, so we can’t call out we are truly in a town devoid of any law to keep the peace. Well until D.U.S.T. arrive and with no way to call out we don’t know how long that will be.”

 

Kate nods, “Ok, I hope they arrive soon.”

 

“As do I.”

 

Dawn interrupts, “Maybe you could show them the tape he left? So they know what he looks like?”

 

Giles nods, “Excellent idea Dawn, they’ll have a better way of knowing what we’re up against. Oz could you play it for them please?”

 

Oz nods and makes his way over to the TV, the A.I. Crew, Lawson & Xander gather round to watch. After it ended they had multiple reactions.

 

“OK, this guys Trouble with a capital Tee babycakes.” Lorne said.

 

“I agree, I’ve never seen power like it.” Wesley said while cleaning his glasses.

 

“Damn, this guy stopped a wall of bullets like they were nothing.” Gunn put in.

 

“Okay, this guys officially bad news, but no one mentioned he was hot.” Everyone stared at Cordelia. “What? You’re telling me you didn’t notice come on.” She rolls her eyes.

 

Faith ignored Cordelia and turned to buffy. “This guys definitely bad B, what’s this about him killing slayers?”

 

Buffy shrugs, “I don’t know he said it like a throwaway line, like he doesn’t see slayers as a threat he even called us ‘girls with pointy sticks' and said we followed commands just like dogs.”

 

“Seriously? The more I know about this guy the more he’s pissing me off.” She said angrily.

 

Fred speaks for the first time, “Excuse me? Who’s that man asleep in the corner?”

 

The A.I. team & Lawson turn to see Riley still out in the corner. It was Ethan that answered them. “Bugger, I completely forgot about him during the excitement. That’s one of the muppets that wished us into this mess, the other ones there.” He points at Xander making the newcomers look at him.

 

“I must ask, what idiotic thing was going through your heads, not just to wish but make a wish this severe?” Wesley asks him.

 

He goes to answer but was cut of by Dawn. “He & Riley were trying to prove Spike wrong when he said humans could be evil.”

 

“That’s it? That’s the reason? All because a vampire pointed out the truth? Is your hatred for demons at such a scale that you don’t care what damage you cause? Because god forbid a demons right and you’re wrong, is that it? With you being awake and the other pillock being out cold I’m guessing you’ve seen the error of your ways?” Wesley’s angry rant caused everyone to look at him shocked.

 

“Go Wes, Xander’s always been stupid though, I mean with parents like his I seriously can’t understand how he could think all humans were good.” Cordelia chimed in.

 

Xander was speechless at Cordelia’s words, ‘She’s right with my parents I should have been the first to argue against all humans being good.’ Before he could speak though Ethan interrupted.

 

“What I find extremely entertaining, is Ripper believes he’s not in trouble.”

 

“What are you talking about Ethan?” Giles said confused.

 

“D.U.S.T. are coming here, you’re these young ones mentor or as close to one as you could get, what makes you think Sirrus isn’t going to question why you let them believe that for so long?”

 

Lindsey chuckles, “He’s got a point, if the other one doesn’t accept how the world really works they’ll deal with him too.”

 

Xander pipes up at that. “What will they do to Riley?”

 

“If he keeps living in denial and putting people in danger, they’ll wipe his memories of the supernatural that also includes his memories of all of you. And if needed they’ll wipe your memories of him, it’ll be like you never met him.”

 

Anya jumps in, “Yes, they usually do it as a last resort but they have done it in the past.”

 

Everyone was silent as the information sunk in, eventually Buffy spoke, “Would that have happened to me?”

 

Anya shakes her head, “No, because you’re a slayer, but if you kept killing demons for no other reason than they’re demons, you would have been given prison time and sent to D.U.A.”

 

“What’s D.U.A.?”

 

Lindsey answers, “The Dimensional Unnatural Academy, since you can’t join D.U.S.T. until you’re 18 it’s like a school. Teaches you everything you need to know about the supernatural.”

 

Kate speaks up, “That sound’s pretty cool.” Everyone nodded except Angel who was still looking at the TV screen. He then asks a question.

 

“What’s his brand stand for?” Everyone looks at him confused and he points at the screen. “Salazar’s brand? Its an ‘S.S.’ What’s it mean?”

 

“It means Salazar Serpent.” Everyone spins round to see four newcomers in the shop. All wearing the D.U.S.T. windbreakers Spike mentioned. Two in white & black, one in yellow & black, and one in purple & black. They nod acknowledging Spike & Lawson, who in return nod back.

 

Spike approaches them saying their name as he does, he approaches the one at the front first and shakes his hand. “Sirrus, glad you could make it.” Everyone looks Sirrus over he has short dark brown hair and stubble where a beard and moustache used to be, he looks in his twenties, but gives off the knowledge of someone older. 

 

“We got here as soon as we could.” Sirrus says in response.

 

Spike nods and moves over to the next one and they share a brotherly hug. “Hornet, It’s good to see you mate.” The others look Hornet over, as Spike said before his jackets yellow & black instead of white & black. He appears to be in his twenties as well, short jet black hair & a tattoo of a hornet on the back of his right hand.

 

“Likewise mate.” Hornet responds.

 

Spike moves on to the next one. “Ark, good to see you.” The others look Ark over, he’s wearing the white and black like Sirrus except his has a skull with a knife through the top of its head on it. He’s blonde and also appears to be in his twenties.

 

“Same to you.” Ark says to him.

 

Spike moves over to the last one. “Bedlam, you’re a sight for sore eyes.” The others finally look Bedlam over he has jet black hair like hornet but he’s wearing purple & black.

 

“Spike, how’s unlife?” Bedlam asks him

 

He shrugs, “Has it’s moments.”

 

Giles raises his hand, “Excuse me? You’re named Bedlam? Like the Hospital?”

 

He shrugs, “My enemies kept calling me insane, the lads started calling me Bedlam and it eventually stuck.”

 

“Ah, I see you all go buy nicknames?”

 

“Mostly, except Sirrus, Ark & some others who aren’t here, the rest of us go by nicknames.”

 

Giles nods his understanding. Spike speaks up again, “Right, how’s about I do the introductions?”

 

When everyone nods he walks back to Sirrus and starts, “OK this is Sirrus, the founder & leader of D.U.S.T.” The man in question nods to them all. “Next we have Hornet, he’s a mystical mutant.” He does a quick salute to them. “Then we have Arkillius, The God Slayer.” He nods to them as well. “And finally Bedlam, one of the Gods of The Wicharei.” He just raises an eyebrow at them.

 

The other occupants of the shop go through their names one by one until everyone’s introduced. Then the questions start.

 

“Forgive me but what’s a Wicharei?” Wesley asked

 

“It translates to Witch Hunter and that’s exactly what we are, witch hunters who use magic. We usually deal with other magic users who use it for dangerous purposes.” Bedlam informs him.

 

“Fascinating, are you really a God?”

 

“Me and my two siblings were originally called gods because we were the first Wicharei, but after thousands of years and being extremely powerful we became earth bound gods. Meaning we are gods just not the cosmic higher power types.”

 

“Amazing, thank you for the information.”

 

Buffy then asks Arkillius a question, “You’re The God Slayer? What’s that mean?”

 

“Exactly what it sounds like, how you slayers get your tingly feeling when vampires are nearby. I get the same when gods are close.” Buffy & Faith stare at him in amazement.

 

“You can kill gods?” She asked in an amazed voice.

 

“Yeah, don’t know how though, Sirrus found me as a baby and raised me, he’s the only father I’ve ever known.”

 

Joyce interrupts, “You never met your birth parents?”

 

“No, that’s why I don’t know what I am. All I know is I can’t die doesn’t matter what anyone does, rip my heart out, cut my head off, set me on fire, drowned me, the list goes on it does nothing. It’s why I don’t fear death can’t fear it If nothing can kill you.”

 

“That must be lonely?”

 

“Not really, D.U.S.T. are my family and everyone in its immortal so I’m never alone.”

 

Giles interrupts at that, “You’re all immortal? how?”

 

Hornet answers, “Sirrus is immortal, he’s like a father to all of us, we didn’t want him to be alone so we figured out immortality. If we ever have enough and want to pass on we can also remove the immortality, so it’s not final. Although none of us really want that, we don’t fight evil because we have to, we fight it because we want to.”

 

Buffy asks a question at that, “Don’t you ever want a normal life?”

 

They laugh at that and Sirrus answers her, “No such thing, if you’re telling me you could have a normal life after the life you’ve lived your lying to yourself. If you could actively quit this life then hear someone scream down an alley and ignore it. You were never a hero to begin with.”

 

Everyone went silent at that, making it clear they hadn’t thought of it from that perspective.

 

“How’s about you show us the muppets that brought Salazar here?” Hornet asked irritated.

 

Ethan spoke up at that, “One of them are out cold at the back of the shop, the other ones there.” He points at Xander and the four newcomers look directly at him.

 

Hornet pulls out a notepad, “What’s your name?”

 

Xander looks confused, “Xander I’ve told you that.”

 

He rolls his eyes, “Full name Brainless?”

 

“Oh, Xander Harris.”

 

“OK, what’s the others name?”

 

“Riley Finn, he still hasn’t come out of denial, he’s trying to blame Spike for bringing Salazar here.” Buffy interrupts

 

“OK, thank you for the information, we’ll be having a talk with him when he wakes up.”

 

During the question’s multiple people noticed Bedlam whispering something to Sirrus that made him look at Joyce, Darla then Dawn.

 

Sirrus raises a hand, “Hang on, Darla? You’ve been resurrected haven’t you?”

 

She looks startled, “Yeah by Wolfram & Hart, I was a vampire got dusted and they brought me back as a human, Why?”

 

He and Bedlam glance to each other, “Because you had syphilis when you were turned, the resurrection brought it back.”

 

Everyone except the four newcomers gasps at that and she pales, “Oh god, I’m going to die aren’t I?”

 

“No, it’s your lucky day, if you stayed human the first time you would have, but because you’ve been resurrected and it came back, That now makes it mystical not natural meaning Bedlam can cure it.”

 

She breathes a sigh of relief, “Yes, thank you.” Bedlam walked over and put his hand over her chest just under her neck, then his hand started glowing. After a couple of seconds it stops.

 

“It’s done.” He walks away after she says thanks again.

 

Dawn speaks up, “What’s wrong with mommy?”

 

Joyce looks at her confused, “What do you mean pumpkin belly?”

 

“Sirrus looked at Darla then you, somethings wrong isn’t it?” The last part was directed at Sirrus. She left out the part were her looked at her, knowing the probable reason.

 

He nods and most people in the shop look worried. “What’s is it? What’s wrong with mom?” Buffy asks panicked.

 

Sirrus directs his question to Joyce, “Have you been suffering from headaches Joyce?”

 

“Yes, only minor ones why?”

 

“You have a mystical brain tumour, Bedlam informs me that it happened due to a spell to alter your memories.”

 

The original Sunnydale residents went pale at his words however Buffy, Dawn & Spike looked stricken at the news.

 

Angel speaks up, “Did Salazar do a spell on her?”

 

Sirrus & Bedlam do a quick glance at Dawn, so quick that everyone except Ark, Hornet, Joyce, Buffy & Spike missed it. “No. It’s a separate matter entirely, something that won’t even be a problem when Bedlam cures it.”

 

“What do you mean? If it’s something dangerous we have a right to know.”

 

“No, at this precise moment you have what rights we give you. The spell wasn’t meant to harm anyone, it backfired and the tumour was a side effect. Until it reaches the point of being dangerous or we and the people involved choose to disclose said information you’ll know nothing, am I making myself clear?” Sirrus said it with such authority that Angel backed off with a nod.

 

Bedlam walked over to Joyce put his hand on her head and the same glow appeared like before, after a couple of seconds the glow stopped and Joyce sighed in relief.

 

“Thank you, it must have been worse than I thought, its like a weights been lifted.”

 

“No problem and a weight has been lifted, even though it wasn’t causing pain yet, the tumour was beginning to press on other parts of the brain.”

 

Everyone else thanked him then Dawn asks them something else, “Can you take the chip out of Spike’s head?”

 

Hornets attention snapped to her at that, “What chip?” He asks dangerously.

 

“He has a chip in his head that stops him harming humans, he can’t help against Salazar with it.”

 

He starts slowly approaching them all menacingly, “And please inform me which bastard did that?”

 

Sirrus puts his hand on his chest stopping his approach, “Hornet, calm.” To nearly everyone’s amazement he nodded and backed off. Sirrus turned his attention to them. “I didn’t hear anyone answer his question?” He asks just as dangerously as Hornet.

 

Buffy speaks up, “The initiative, they were a secret military organisation that captured and experimented on demons, they eventually created their own hybrid that escaped and we had to stop.” She got quieter the more she said because the enraged looks on their faces, the end was pretty much a whisper.

 

“Who gave them the authority to do that? Because I can assure you it wasn’t us.”

 

“According to my knowledge no one, Riley used to be a member.” The information on Riley was so quiet they nearly didn’t hear it.

 

Hornet walks over to a still sleeping Riley and puts a tag round his ankle. Then gets out a phone and calls someone. While he was doing that some of the people in the room turned questioning looks to Sirrus.

 

“What’s happening?” Giles asks

 

“With Riley’s involvement in the initiative, if he survives this he’ll be going to prison for a long time. Hornet’s put a tracking tag on his ankle so we’ll always know where he is if he tries to flee. He’s now in the process of calling this in and getting anyone else who was involved arrested.”

 

“What? he thought he was doing the right thing, how can you arrest him for that?” Xander asked in Riley’s defence.

 

Arkillius interrupts, “Because thinking you’re doing right and actually doing it are two different things. Plus he has no knowledge of the supernatural, you can’t guarantee us that they were only capturing dangerous demons, and even if they were they had no authority to do so. The human governments are for just that, humans.”

 

Xander shuts up at that, Sirrus speaks up again, “Bedlam? Do it.”

 

Bedlam nods clicks his fingers and Spike winces, when Bedlam holds his hand up he’s holding the chip between his thumb & fore finger. Xander looks panicked but keeps his mouth shut. Hornet hangs up the phone and walks over to Sirrus.

 

“It’s done, a Graham Miller was just picked up, he’s being held for D.U.S.T. Retrieval. The head of the initiative was a Maggie Walsh, but she was K.I.A. Apparently.”

 

“Maggie Walsh was killed by her own creation, a creature named Adam he was a human, demon, machine hybrid. Similar to Frankenstein's monster.” Giles informed  them.

 

Sirrus nods, “Thank you for informing us, once we have the initiatives record’s we’ll know the rest. Now how about we get down to the reason we’re all gathered here?”

 

“Yes, Salazar Serpent I believe you called him?”

 

Xander pipes up, “He sounds like that guy out of Harry Potter.”

 

Hornet holds out his hand with a smug smile on his face, “I win, pay up.” The other three groaned and past him 20 dollars each.

 

At Xander’s confused look Hornet explains, “I bet them one of you would try and link him to Harry Potter when you heard his full name. Just for your information he has no relation whatsoever to Salazar Slytherin.”

 

“Wait, Harry Potters real?” He asks dumbfounded.

 

Hornet waves his hand dismissively, “Different multiverse.”

 

Everyone who knew what Harry Potter was were amazed at the news. Sirrus speaks up again. “Salazar’s blood line goes all the way back to the dawn of humanity, before people had surnames and when they eventually did, they were named after their profession. His bloodline couldn’t be trusted back then either, the people called them serpents as an insult so much that his bloodline took it as their surname. Giving birth to the infamous Serpent Family. His father Stygian Serpent was just as deadly, as was his grandfather Solomon Serpent. In fact all of The Serpent Family are.”

 

Giles who was writing all this down asked, “Why are they so evil? I know evil humans exist but he’s extremely dark.”

 

“We’re not exactly sure ourselves, but we believe it has to do with their blood, something they’re extremely protective over. We originally thought that’s because they're royalty but we aren’t as sure anymore.”

 

The others still reeling from the information of his bloodline snap to attention at that.

 

“He’s royalty?” Buffy squeaks in question.

 

“Yeah, His family are the first and only monarch’s of the British Isles. They got to be from despicable actions mind you. With their power no one could really stand up to them, so they easily wiped out the competition.”

 

“So Salazar does have family, will they try to find him?”  Jonathan asks.

 

“I can guarantee it, The Serpent Family may be very untrustworthy but they’re extremely loyal to family.”

 

“He’s at war with a hell-god named Glory at the moment, they’re fighting to try and get to the key first.” Giles informed them.

 

“Glorificus? She gets about.” Arkillius adds with a chuckle.

 

Giles eyebrows shoot skyward, “You know of her?”

 

“Yeah, I was the last protector of the key. We sent it to the monks because we had to stop an apocalypse and couldn’t risk it falling into the wrong hands. I stopped a Glory last time, kinda regret not killing her now though.” Dawn’s eyes widen at hearing he used to protect the key.

 

“What do you mean? You stopped ‘a Glory’?”

 

“Because of alternate realities I can’t guarantee its the same one, what I mean by that is take Buffy & Spike for example. They aren’t the only Buffy & Spike to face Glory, multiple others have done or will do.”

 

Buffy interrupts, “Other Me’s & Spikes? Wow that’s amazing I wonder what differences happened for them.”

 

“You’re the difference, With Salazar being wished here it altered your reality. We know this because it’s the first time we’ve been called for help over him. Yes before you ask we’ve met other Buffy’s & Spike’s, you two aren’t nearly as lovey-dovey as your counterparts though.”

 

Xander interrupts, “What do you mean by ‘lovey-dovey’” His voice was full of jealousy, something the D.U.S.T. members noticed. They didn’t call him on it yet though, deciding it can wait.

 

“Well, every other Buffy & Spike we met were a couple. Either dating, married or mated, most times married & mated. Not gonna lie you two make an amazing couple.”

 

Spike looks amazed & slightly hopeful, Buffy blushes and keeps looking at him out the corner of her eye. Something Xander noticed and it made his jealousy rise tenfold.

 

“But he’s a vampire! It’s wrong why didn’t you stop them?” He was nearly shaking from jealous rage. ‘No its wrong, she’s supposed to be with me, I won’t let her be with Spike.’

 

Arkillius raises an eyebrow at him, “What’s him being a vampire got to do with anything? Nowhere in D.U.S.T. law does it state slayers can’t date vampires, so I’d ask you why the fuck you think you can make your own laws? Or is this a subtle way of telling me you think you control her?”

 

Xander was struggling to find a response. the rest of the room was dumbfounded at the news. Giles rushed to get them back to the earlier conversation before Xander got himself arrested. “Do we have a possibility of Glory getting the key this time?”

 

Ark knows exactly what he’s doing but goes along anyway. “Nah, it’s Salazar we have to worry about.”

 

“You’re positive he’ll win against Glory?”

 

“With the shit he’s fought in the past and won, I can pretty much guarantee it.”

 

Faith interrupts, “OK, we know Salazar’s definitely dangerous. What’s this about him killing slayers?”

 

Sirrus answers her, “Your multiverse and Salazar’s are close enough to have more similarities than others. The main ones we’re aware of are the inclusion of slayers, the watchers council and The Powers That Be. Salazar started the last apocalypse in his world, it was bad enough that the PTB of his world activated every slayer to stop him. The war was catastrophic billions died, the world was pretty much already lost thanks to his father. He just put the final nail in the coffin, the slayers didn’t stand a chance, they were obliterated. He destroyed the slayer line, but he did it in a way that didn’t just end the line in his world, it ended it all across his multiverse. The main reason Salazar Serpent is a name to be feared, is because he’s responsible for the extinction of the slayers from his multiverse.”

 

Everybody listening paled at the news, “He’s a far more dangerous adversary than I originally thought, we are most certainly in for the fight of our lives.” Giles’s voice was full of fear.

 

“Yeah we are, but we’re here to help, the problem is we’ve fought Salazar before. He will leave irreversible Damages, not just to you but the world, I hope you’re ready for that. He’s not easily defeated even by us.”

 

Buffy moved next to Spike due to her fear, everyone noticed and said nothing. But Xander feeling jealousy rise again went to open his mouth, only to shut it at the raised eyebrows Hornet & Arkillius gave him. “What are we going to do?” her voice was small and scared.

 

“Well, with him & Glory having a pissing contest we have time to think of a plan.” Hornet responds.

 

“OK, so what’s first?” Angel joins the conversation.

 

“First Hornet informs the global government’s that we’re here, that will stop any other law enforcement coming to Sunnydale. He’ll give them a cover story to give the public for why they can’t come to Sunnydale. The town’s officially in lockdown no one in or out except us.” Hornet nods and takes out his phone.

 

“You can do that?” Wesley asked amazed.

 

“Once the other government’s realise we’re here they’ll know its not something they can handle, so they’ll stay away regardless. But yes we can do that.”

 

“Extraordinary, I have a question for Bedlam on a different matter entirely.”

 

Bedlam raises an eyebrow, “And that is?”

 

“Why is your jacket purple & black? Hornet’s colour difference speaks for itself, however yours is a mystery.”

 

He chuckles, “That’s because I’m a member of D.U.S.T. Dark Squad, we’re led by Syrpius, Sirrus’s brother. With Sirrus being the head of D.U.S.T. though he has authority over all of us.”

 

“Ah I see, what is dark Squad if you don’t mind me asking?”

 

“Dark squad is for dark or ex-evil members, the ones more prone to dark actions to save the world. Some of our old enemies are in dark squad.”

 

“Oh, the colour difference makes sense now.”

 

He nods & makes his way towards Sirrus, Hornet & Arkillius. He whispers something to them that makes them all look at Willow, who proceeds to squirm under their gaze. Everyone in the shops watching wondering what’s about to happen.

 

Sirrus addresses her, “Willow? According to Bedlam you’re untrained in magic, your magical signatures all over the place. We can’t allow you to cast magic during this situation, Salazar could use an untrained witch as a weapon. You will be required to go through magical training when this is over, we ask you to refrain from any spell casting.”

 

She jumps to her feet, her eyes turn black. “You Can’t Do That! I won’t let you, I don’t need training I taught myself.”

 

Bedlam flicks his hand and she slams back in her chair, then chain’s wrap around her wrist & ankles. When everyone looks at him his eyes are black as well, he approaches then crouches in front of her and begins to speak.

 

“Yes we can, you’re an untrained magic user, Salazar would annihilate you in seconds it doesn’t matter how powerful you and all you’re ‘Friends' think you are. He’s trained in magic he has knowledge on spells from the dawn of humanity for fuck sake, we’re not just talking about old magic, we’re talking ancient. The problem with you self taught witches is you become addicted to the power and that gives you an ego, so when someone more powerful comes along you won’t accept it.”

 

“No! I can control the magic!”

 

“That’s the kicker luv, if you could control it you wouldn’t be stuck right now.” At her confused look he chuckles, “The chain’s tying you to the chair they’re special, you see these ones have a specific use, to trap untrained magic users. Meaning if you could control your magic those chains wouldn’t hold you.”

 

She just glares at him and stays silent. Xander irritated at something he said speaks up.

 

“Why did you say friends like that? With the finger quotes?”

 

He turns to them, “Because you’re not her friends, all you are is a squad of yes men. You kept telling her she could do it and not she shouldn’t, I’m a Wicharei for god sake that translates to Witch Hunter in case you’ve forgot. I can guarantee she’s fucked up on spells in the past and instead of being real friends and calling her on it, I’d bet you all swept it under the rug like it never happened.” The guilty & ashamed looks tell him he’s spot on.

 

Sirrus interrupts, “We’ll be talking about this later, but for now fill us in on what’s happened with Salazar, we have one more ally coming, we’ll fill him in when he gets here.”

 

******

 

Outside Glory’s Apartment, Sunnydale, California

 

Salazar was stood on a nearby hill with at least a hundred minions all with black duffle bags, he thought it would be good to tell her he’s here.

 

“Yoo-hoo! Hell Bitch!” the curtains move and Glory appeared at the window. “Just Thought I’d Let You Know Who’s Responsible! Salazar Serpent, It’s Been A Pleasure!” He addresses his minions, “Let’em fly boys.” They proceed to remove rocket launchers from black duffle bags, then point them at Glory’s apartment, her eyes widen as the rockets fire.

 

They all fly then connected with multiple deafening explosions, Glory’s apartment toppled in on itself. All the minions cheered, Hanson approached Salazar. “It could be a possibility that other people lived there as well Master.”

 

He turns to him, what’s left of the apartment still ablaze in the background. “Do I strike you as someone who gives a fuck?“ Hanson shakes his head, “That’s what I thought, and I highly doubt anyone else lived there with her. She’s a hell-god she’ll not be caught dead living in the same building as mortals.”

 

“Do you think she’s dead?”

 

He chuckles, “Not that easy no, the last hell-god I faced I used a tank, didn’t do fuck all, that’s why I didn’t bring ours. It’ll be a minor flesh wound I’ll deal with her eventually, this was just letting her know I’m still around.”

 

“OK I understand, what do we do now Master?”

 

“They finally arrived a bit back, it explains how Spike knew me, he knows D.U.S.T. and called them, and I know he’s the one that called them, no one else knew me, so no one else knew to call D.U.S.T. except him.”

 

******

 

Downtown, Sunnydale, California

 

A blue portal opens a couple of blocks from the magic box, the person who steps out looks around he’s carrying a black duffle bag. ‘I’m here, now I need to find Sirrus, it’s time to stop Salazar.’

 

******

 

Ruins of Glory’s Apartment, Sunnydale, California

 

Glory crawls out the rubble of her apartment complex, she stands and looks at the damage, ‘Who Does He Think He Is?! I’ve never heard of a Salazar Serpent. I’m not stopping until he’s dead, I wasn’t taking him seriously before. I won’t make the same mistake twice, I need some more minions I can’t find my key with him in the way.'

 

******

 

Magic Box, Sunnydale, California

 

After being filled in Sirrus is the first to speak. “OK, Bedlam deal with the bodies at the police station, you’re the only one who can match Salazar’s magical abilities if he turns up.”

 

Bedlam nods and teleports out the room, Sirrus turns to everyone else. “The army base raid is more of a problem than you first thought .”

 

Angel speaks up, “What do you mean? We know he’s got their weapons, what could be worse?”

 

Hornet explains, “We’ve faced Salazar before and can guarantee he didn’t leave with just weapons.”

 

Jonathan pipes up, “He took the vehicles as well didn’t he?”

 

“I’m absolutely positive he did.”

 

Andrews panicked voice fills the room. “He has their vehicles? Oh God! Oh God! That means he probably has tanks, I’m too young to die.”

 

Buffy clung to Spike’s arm, “TANKS??!! I’m the slayer I can’t deal with tanks!” Her voice full of panic.

 

Spike looked a bit panicked himself. “I can assure you pet, vampires aren’t that good with them either.”

 

“What we gonna do, I’m scared Spike I don’t like this feeling. I’ve never been scared of an enemy before.” She laughs bitterly, “And how ironic is that, I’m the slayer meant to fight demons and I’m scared of a human.”

 

“From what we’ve heard about him you’d be stupid not to be luv.” Everyone nods in agreement to that.

 

She squeezes his arm where she still grips it, “Thank you Spike.” She smiles at him shyly, “The amount of times I’ve said that the past few days, its just you always seem to know what to say.”

 

Hornet interrupt with a chuckle, “Yeah he’s quite the smooth talker, you cheating on me Spike?” He laughs when Spike gives him the two fingered salute, “Not to worry, my missus would have my bollocks. I think she’s a tad jealous of you.”

 

“She does know we’re both straight right?”

 

“Told her multiple times but it’s like talking to a brick wall.”

 

“Yeah, She’s just as stubborn as you, but come to think of it you need a tough bird to put up with your sodding anger switches.”

 

“Yeah I know, I remember this one time she got started on by this bunch of guys. Don’t know over what, I think they were trying to pull her and she told them she wasn’t interested. Anyway some other bloke walks over to me and says ‘Aren’t you going to defend her’ I obviously proceeded to tell him she can defend herself, and he goes ‘I’m sure she’ll appreciate you defending her anyway’ I looked at him like he was insane and pointed across the room, he turns to look only to see her kick the fuck out of them all. The look on his face was priceless I laughed so hard I nearly passed out.”

 

Buffy looks amazed, “I can’t count the times ex's tried to protect me it was so irritating.”

 

“Yeah well, I’d like to keep my body parts where they are thanks.”

 

Arkillius jumps in, “I can remember that, your bird bitched for about an hour after you told her what he said, it was funny I only ever remember her being that angry once before. Do you remember?”

 

“Yeah the bloody animal possession, what a complete tool.” He sees Spike’s questioning gaze and decides to fill everyone in. “Basically we got called out because these youths got possessed, I think it was by a demonic hyena spirit. Anyway after the possession ended he tried to tell us he couldn’t remember anything.” He scoffs, “Muppet seem to conveniently forget we’re D.U.S.T. and know full well animal possessions don’t cause memory loss afterwards, never mind the fact that everyone else involved had to go to therapy. It pissed me off that he tried to pull one over on us.” After he was finished he noticed Buffy, Willow, Xander & Giles go pale.

 

Sirrus seemed to notice as well, it became painfully obvious that something happened with the betrayed looks Buffy & Willow were shooting at Xander & Giles.

 

“From your fours reaction to his story, I’m guessing that brought up memories for all of you. And not good ones either.”

 

Buffy spoke up, “Xander was possessed by an hyena spirit and pretended not to remember anything. Giles went along with his lie.”

 

The three D.U.S.T. members left looked at them both. Arkillius asks a question, “Why on earth would you lie? And I want the truth.”

 

Giles looks ashamed, “I wanted them to keep the friendship they had, I don’t know everything Xander did under the possession as he refused to tell me.”

 

“OK, you had a genuine reason but don’t lie about something this serious in the future. You’re her watcher she needs that trust. What’s your reason?” The question was directed to Xander.

 

He looks ashamed, but also angry like he doesn’t like the fact his secrets out. “I just didn’t want to remember the things it made me do. I realise lying about it was wrong but after awhile I thought it was best to keep up the lie.” ‘Great, now she knows I was lying about not remembering, any chance I had with hers been destroyed. Doesn’t mean I’m going to stop wishing though, I deserve her way more than Spike does.’

 

The three of them just stared at him, until Hornet decides to drop a knowledge bomb on him. “The problem is it may have made you act on those things, but it didn’t create them. You see most animal possessions are a grey area, because the animal doesn’t know right from wrong and doesn’t usually know what to do once it’s possessed someone. Meaning for those struggling to keep up.....it acts on your thoughts & fantasies to try and fit in.”

 

Everyone notice Buffy start trembling and switch seats with Spike, so she was further away from Xander. Everyone looked at him suspiciously especially Dawn, Joyce, Spike & Anya.

 

Sirrus steps forward, “From Buffy’s reaction I have a pretty good idea what happened, meaning by order of D.U.S.T. you Xander Harris are under official investigation and are not allowed to be alone with any women until the investigations through.” All the girls moved away from him having some idea what he did, the men placed themselves protectively in front of them.

 

Xander looked outraged, “You Can’t Do That! I’m human only the human authorities can do that.”

 

“That’s where you’re wrong, you know of the supernatural so that gives us authority over you. And just for your information we can arrest other criminals for the human authorities.”

 

Xander paled at his words, “But the demon did it, I had no control.”

 

“I’m guessing other people were possessed as well?” Buffy nodded, “And did they try to do what he did to anyone?” she shook her head no, “Just what I thought. As Hornet told you they react mostly on what goes on inside your head. The other students will be investigated also, but if we find out they mostly ate people that’s what a hyena demon spirit does, so there’s nothing to cause alarm. But as I’ve told you you’re under investigation and that’s final.”

 

Xander’s still pale but nods and sits down, Jonathan gets the conversation back on Salazar, “Can Bedlam handle Salazar? I seen what he did to Warren. It was bad.”

 

“Yeah, don’t worry about Bedlam, it’ll be a hell of a fight though.” Hornet responds.

 

******

 

Sunnydale Police Department, California

 

Bedlam just finished with the last body when he here’s movement behind him. He turns to see Salazar sat on one of the desks.

 

“Bedlam, long time no see.”

 

“Not long enough Salazar.”

 

“tsk tsk tsk, here I am trying for friendly conversation and there you are being rude.”

 

“There’s nothing friendly about you.”

 

He gets up, “You’re right how silly of me for forgetting. Shall we do this?”

 

Bedlam gets in a defensive stance, “We shall.” They both charge across the room at each other throwing punches & kicks left and right. Salazar jumps in the air repeatedly knee strikes at his chest,  Bedlam blocks every single one, except before Salazar touches the ground he spin kicks his chest sending Bedlam flying through the station doors.

 

“Is it me, or have you got worse? You used to have some skill.” Salazar taunts as he walks out the station.

 

“Just warming up, let’s finish this.” He does a kip up to his feet, then the fighting starts again. After more punches & kicks landed by both of them, magic gets brought into it. Salazar throws a fireball at him and he blocks with a wall of water, which he then flips over throwing lightning bolts at him. One hits Salazar making him fly back and hit the station alley wall.

 

Salazar just chuckles at him, “Good shot, still not as good as your brother or sister. Why send the youngest sibling I wonder?”

 

“I don’t need their help with you, and your manipulation tactics won’t work on me, so save the mind games for someone they can affect.”

 

Salazar shrugs, “If you Insist.” He slams his hands down on the ground and shards of jagged concrete cover his forearms like elbow length gloves. Bedlam makes chain’s wrap round his and the fights on again. Salazar uppercuts him cutting his chin, he does a tornado kick connecting with Salazar’s jaw & splitting his lip, they then grapple with each other. Bedlam grabs his arm flips over him effectively twisting it, then tries to sweep his legs out from under him only to have Salazar flip himself, dodging the move and straitening his twisted arm. He then kicks Bedlam in the chest making him fly a couple of feet down the alley.

 

“You’ve managed to make me bleed you little wanker, not many people can pull that off but what was I expecting fighting you. You’re still losing pal, I’d call it quits if I was you.” Salazar said as he approached him.

 

He gets to his feet, “I’m not finished yet.”

 

“Hey, it’s your funeral.” Salazar responds as he charges him, he jumps an elbow drops him which makes Salazar’s head snap back at the force. Salazar spin kicks him and he bends backwards effectively ducking under it then stands and backhands him, he spins with the backhand and kicks at him again this time it connects making Bedlam stumble. Salazar holds out his hand and a sword materialises in it, Bedlam follows suit then they charge swords clashing, the force of the attacks making sparks come off them.

 

They continue striking at each other, anyone watching would be amazed at the sword mastery they both possess, the clashing sounds continued as it began to rain, after another half an hour Salazar got a lucky shot and impaled him through the right leg. Bedlam used the opening to impale Salazar through his left shoulder, making them both yell out in pain. Bedlam backhanded him again knocking him back making him withdraw his sword, which also made Bedlam’s sword withdraw as well. They just stared at each other from ten feet apart, hands over their wounds the rain still pouring down around them.

 

“You’ve got stronger, I’ll look forward to doing this again.” Salazar said then turned into green smoke and then flew out the alley.

 

“Fuck he’s learned smoke travel, he’s definitely stronger than last time, this isn’t good. He teleports out the alley.

 

******

 

Magic Box, Sunnydale, California

 

They were deep in conversation when bedlam teleported back in the room. Making everyone look at him, He leans against the till still holding his wound.

 

Hornet approaches him, “Bedlam mate what the fuck happened?”

 

“I ran into Salazar, he’s stronger than last time, he’s mastered smoke travel.”

 

“Fuck, I didn’t think he’d figure that out."

 

“Imagine my surprise we were fighting, then throwing magic at each other, then swords came into play. We ended up wounding each other, he said ‘You’ve got stronger, I’ll look forward to doing this again.’ Then turns into green smoke and fly’s out the alley.”

 

Giles steps forward, “What does ‘smoke travel’ have to do with him being stronger.”

 

“It’s an ancient form of travel for warlocks only extremely powerful magic users can pull it off, it means he’s basically figured out how to turn himself into smoke, seeing as you all know Harry Potter it’s similar to how death eaters travel only worse.” Sirrus informs him.

 

“How’s it worse?” Andrew asks him worriedly.

 

“Because in every multiverse there’s a limit to what magic can do. For example no spell in any multiverse can create emotions that’s literally impossible, what I mean by that is if somethings incapable of love, a love spell won’t have any effect. In Salazar’s multiverse there’s very little in what magic can’t do, and he’s not from this multiverse so this one’s magical limits don’t effect him.”

 

Even though they were all listening Buffy, Giles, Willow & Xander were looking at Spike, after hearing that magic can’t create emotions and remembering what he was like under Willow’s ‘my will be done’ spell made them realise that’s something else they were wrong about. They realised there must be more they don’t know and decided they’d find out, after Salazar wasn’t a threat anymore of course.

 

Xander though had a different reaction, he wasn’t happy at all. ‘God, now we know he can actually feel emotions like love, it’s gonna be harder to keep Buffy away from him.’ They were all brought back to the conversation with Jonathan’s voice.

 

“That means any spell he can do at home he can do here, no matter how catastrophic it is.”

 

“Yeah, that’s exactly what it means.”

 

They all went silent at that, however the sound of the door opening cut through the silence. They all looked up to see a man enter but couldn’t see his face, because he was in the process of drying his face and hair with a towel out of a black duffle bag he carried with him. The rain was still pouring heavily outside. Sirrus turns to address him.

 

“So, you’ve finally made it.”

 

“Yeah, searching this shithole of a town for you lot was a problem.” He takes down his towel making everyone except the D.U.S.T. members gasp.

 

Angel’s staring at the newcomer with horror & disbelief, the leather pants could only mean one thing but it’s not possible. Before anyone could voice their thoughts though Darla spoke.

 

“Angelus?” she asks her voice full of disbelief.

 

He smirks, “Yeah, I’m here to help.”

 

The magic box was left speechless.

Notes:

So the allies arrived, including Angelus, and two other members of D.U.S.T are revealed. Some of the Scoobies past actions are coming to bite them, and more information about Salazar comes to light. The knowledge of alternate realities is out, the only question is what other truths will be revealed? And how will our heroes react when they are?

The next chapters ready, so you won't have to wait long, especially with a cliffhanger like that. The 'Sunnydale Military Base' is where Xander got the rocket launcher in season 2, I couldn't remember the official name for the location in the show, and everything I could find on the Internet called it a military base. 

Like the last chapters, it's all done by me, I've done multiple rereads but I can't guarantee every mistake was spotted. Let me know what think.

Chapter 5: Chapter 5 - Destroyed Beliefs

Notes:

Another long one.

Hornet drops some truth bombs in this chapter, some of the stuff he says could be offensive, just a heads up.

Characters & Genres will be updated with this chapter.

Magic Box, Sunnydale, California

 

Angelus bursts out laughing as he puts his duffle on the floor behind the till. “The looks on your faces are priceless, let me guess yours is another version of me that can’t control his demon?”

 

Spike interrupts, “You’re an Angelus that learned to control your demon?” His voice was full of amazement.

 

“Aye, that I am my boy, the fucker was riding my body not the other way around. I’d be dammed if I let it control me.”

 

“Yeah, that’s why I learned to control mine as well. And to piss off this Angelus.”

 

He smirks, “Me & my William got along famously, I’m guessing you & your Angelus didn’t?”

 

Spike scoffs, “Not so much, Where’s your Spike?”

 

“He’s mated to my world’s version of her.” He points at Buffy. Angel & Xander were clearly unhappy about hearing another Buffy & Spike were together but stayed quiet. By this point though Bedlam finally released Willow.

 

Giles interrupts, “Forgive me but from my experience from our Angelus, I’m not exactly trusting.”

 

“Rupert, it’s good to see you old chap. I don’t know what this Angelus did but I assure you I’m not him, D.U.S.T. wouldn’t trust me with you if I was.”

 

Hornet reassures the group, “He’s an Angelus that stayed good after he lost his cursed soul.”

 

Everyone gasps at that, but it’s Buffy that question’s him. “So, you were an Angel that lost his soul and stayed good? Did you lose it to that world’s Buffy?”

 

“Ah, so that’s how it happened here? Sorry but no, my world’s version of you has been with Spike since the beginning, Me, Spike, Darla, Drusilla & Lawson all arrived in town together. Darla decided to do a spell, she wanted me back, she wasn’t happy when I stayed on the good side after. And don’t call me ‘Angel’ I never changed my name after being cursed, I was still Angelus with the soul. Unlike the rest I didn’t pretend to be someone else after I got it, I couldn’t get redemption if I didn’t accept the crimes were done by me.”

 

Everyone gaped at that, Buffy looked like she’d been lied to again, Angel looked like his delusion had been shattered and Giles looked at Angel murderous. Before anyone could berate Angel though, Spike interrupted.

 

“Wait, you didn’t abandon us after the soul?” Spike asked shocked.

 

Angelus looked at him in disbelief, “Why would I do that my boy? You’re family. I had no one else, did you actually expect me to leave you all and munch on rats like the other soul boys did?”

 

Angel interrupts, “What did you eat? Were you still feeding from humans?” He asked suspiciously.

 

Angelus rolls his eyes, “No you great brooding freak, D.U.S.T. do a blood delivery service and instead of abandoning my family I also got them to use it as well.”

 

Buffy interrupts amazed, “You got Darla, Drusilla & Spike to stop feeding on humans?”

 

He raises an eyebrow at her, “You make it sound impossible, who am I kidding? You were taught by the watchers council of course you find it impossible.”

 

Angel angrily interrupts, “Because it is, a vampire can’t change its nature.”

 

This results in Angelus, Spike, Lawson, Sirrus, Hornet, Bedlam & Arkillius all raising their eyebrows at him.

 

Lawson spoke up, “I’ve never fed off a human, after meeting D.U.S.T. after you turned me I had a new mission.”

 

Angelus growled, “Why do I get the feeling he’s another childe you abandoned?” He asked Angel menacingly.

 

Spike interrupts, “Because he was.” He tells him about what happened in WW2. Causing Angelus to Snarl at Angel.

 

“Thank fuck I’m not like you, I feel sick even being a version of you.” He Turns to Lawson, “I’m sorry childe, just so you know I never abandoned my Lawson.”

 

“What’s going on here?” Riley demanded, in the commotion no one noticed him waking up.

 

“Who the fuck are you? I’ve met everyone else in here at some point but not you.” Angelus asked him.

 

Riley looked in disbelief at the two Angel’s wondering if he was going insane. He answers him anyway. “I’m Buffy’s boyfriend.”

 

Buffy interrupts, “Not anymore you’re not, all the damage you’ve caused and you’re choosing to ignore it and you treat me like someone who can’t defend myself. We’re over.”

 

Riley looks at her in disbelief but before he can respond Sirrus interrupts.

 

“If she didn’t split up with you we would’ve put an end to it.”

 

Buffy looks at him confused, “Why?”

 

“You obviously don’t know so for future knowledge, it’s illegal for slayers to date normal humans.”

 

Buffy & Faith looked gobsmacked. Giles, Wesley, Angel & Willow looked in disbelief. Riley’s of course was denial. Everyone had a different reaction to the news but Xander’s was the most telling, he looked close to tears like his dreams just been shattered. Something Anya seen & looked destroyed, Which was in turn Something Hornet noticed and voiced his problem.

 

“You fucking little shit, you’ve obviously been leading Anya on. Hoping one day Buffy would see you as someone to date, don’t even try denying it the look on your sodding face said it all. The second you realised slayers can’t date normal humans you looked shattered, you’ve been living in a fantasy all this time. After what we’ve figured out you did while possessed by the hyena demon, you knew she’d never date you and that’s why you pretended not to remember.”

 

Angelus interrupts, “So, he tried to rape her here as well? Me & Spike had a field day with you back in my world boy. You tried to lie about remembering it there too. Kind of fucked his plan up when the other four that got possessed had to go to therapy.”

 

Joyce, Dawn & Giles looked at him murderously. Angel & Spike growled, Buffy grabs Spike’s hand and gently squeezes it trying to calm him down, but she looked hurt, betrayed & disgusted at the reason for him pretending to forget. Riley looked at Xander like he’d just been betrayed. Everyone else just glared at him and he put his head down.

 

Ethan spoke up, “Now I know why you put him under investigation, you have to make sure he’ll never try anything like that while not possessed.”

 

Sirrus nodded, “Yeah, as was stated earlier the animal demon doesn’t create thoughts or fantasies, it just acts on them.”

 

Everyone looked at Xander like they didn’t know him, that even included Riley. But Riley of course had different things on his mind. And decided to question them.

 

“What did you mean it’s illegal for slayers to date humans anyway? you never gave us a reason and all laws exist for a reason.”

 

“There’s multiple reasons. One, slayers could kill a human if they let loose, which happened more times than you think. Two, slayers can’t love humans because their slayer won’t allow it, she wants an equal not someone that needs protecting. Three, humans can’t impregnate slayers, which should be deadly obvious because even if they could, their internal slayer muscles would crush a normal child. Four, If an enemy can’t kill them, who the hell do you think it’s going to go after? Five, they sometimes surround themselves with other humans, who choose to tell a slayer she needs a normal life.” He looks pointedly at them, “How the hell do you think it feels for someone who’s not a slayer, to tell a slayer how they should live? That’s why the male slayers rebelled against the council. Six, most slayers are 15 when chosen, meaning the slayer essence inside them is only young, it takes ten years for the slayer essence to become fully grown, and that means when the slayer reaches usually 25 she becomes immortal.”

 

Everyone’s speechless at the news, Angel basically starts whining. “But she was supposed to have a normal life.”

 

“And she can, but just to inform you, a slayer dating a human makes her the opposite of normal.”

 

Angel was gaping like a fish, so Cordelia asked a question that’s been on her mind. “I have to ask, what’s with the other Buffy’s & Spike’s being together?”

 

“Not all of them are together yet, but it will happen eventually, they’re soulmates after all. There are a lot of misconceptions about how soulmates actually work, and if you know about the supernatural the said soulmates have a stronger pull. For example they’re drawn to each other, meaning if Spike ever left town he’d find himself drawn back to wherever Buffy is, he probably wouldn’t know the reason why of course. They’d probably constantly think about each other, again probably not knowing why. They’d also find it impossible to kill each other, always finding excuses for why they can’t. They probably always dream about each other be it sexual, romantic or happy dreams. And If that’s not enough her slayer & his demon are perfect mates as well, meaning no matter who they date they’ll continuously split up until they’re together. When they laid eyes on each other they probably thought each other were the most gorgeous & perfect person.”

 

Everyone was once again speechless. Letting all the information sink in.

 

Buffy was staring wide eyed at Spike with a blush. ‘That explains everything, the dreams I’ve been having about him. Why I could never kill him, I always thought there was something wrong with me. Turns out there isn’t I’m not wrong for liking Spike, I’m wrong for being with Riley it’s illegal. I never really thought of those reasons for the law to begin with but all of them are right, my internal muscles would crush a normal child. We are to strong for a human, of course my slayer wouldn’t except a human as an equal, and the thing about demons going after them if they can’t get me, right again and it’s also something I never thought about before. The immortality things a bit freaky but the main reason I’m not freaking about it, is because of the final bit about them telling me how to live when they aren’t slayers, so they don’t know how it feels to be one. The best thing to come out of this is they can’t push me at anyone else they want me to date.’ She mentally giggles to herself, then finally remembers she’s still holding Spike’s hand and blushes again but doesn’t let go, instead she gently squeezes it.

 

Spike was staring wide eyed back at Buffy with a hopeful look in his eyes. ‘That’s why I kept coming back to bloody Sunnyhell, it was because of Buffy. But not to kill her like I originally thought it’s because she’s my soulmate, wow. Buffy’s MY soulmate not the poofters, it’s like a dream come true. I wonder how she’d react if I told her I loved her? Or is it too soon?’ He has a goofy grin on his face when he sees her blush and squeeze his hand. She smiles shyly in response. ‘Fuck she’s gorgeous, I’ll wait to tell her It might be a bit soon, but bonus with her being immortal I don’t have to worry about old age taking her from me.’

 

Faith’s head was still spinning from the information she’s just heard. ‘OK, so B’s meant to be with the hot bleached vamp. That’s good for her but who am I meant to be with? All the reasons slayers can’t be with humans just ran home how different I am.’ She decides to ask. “Sirrus? Have you met alternate versions of me as well?” He nods, “Who am I meant to be with then?” He glances at Lawson then back to her with a raised eyebrow. Lawson sees the exchange and looks at her shocked. In return she smiles. ‘Well, at least I get a hot vamp of my own.’

 

Giles’s thoughts were everywhere. ‘I’m not happy about Buffy being with another vampire, but if anyone I’m glad it’s Spike. I can’t really say anything anyway, it’s illegal for slayers to date humans & she’s apparently destined to be with him. I never really thought about slayers not being able to birth normal children but when I think about it, it makes sense with her slayer strength she’d crush a normal child. I’m a blind fool of course her slayer would never accept a human partner, never mind the immortality which I again didn’t know about, and about us telling Buffy how to live when she’s the slayer. That Is again spot on, we’re not slayers so we have no idea what it’s like.’

 

Wesley was deep in thought over another reason though. ‘All those reasons for slayers not being able to date humans are of course correct. But I’m sure I didn’t mishear him about male slayers.’ He decides to find out. “Did I hear you mention male slayers before?” His question brings everyone else’s attention as well, they all had a look like they completely forgot that.

 

Sirrus turns to him, “Yeah you did, certain realities are different like that, what I mean by this is that in some, all slayers are female, in some all slayers are male and sometimes they have both. The problem with that though is the male slayers rebelled against the council and don’t really get on with the female ones.”

 

“Who runs the male slayer line?”

 

“We do, you see back when the slayers were created they made a male slayer first. Due to the belief males could handle it, they put more slayer essence in men than women. What they didn’t understand is this action led to their downfall, with the males having more essence they also got knowledge as well. So when the council tried telling them about demons they knew they were lying, it also didn’t help when the watchers tried teaching them fighting styles they themselves couldn’t do. You see the male slayers were extremely proud and wouldn’t let humans tell them what to do. So they rebelled, they eventually came to us and have been following us ever since.”

 

“Ah I see, so why do the female & male slayers dislike each other?”

 

“Mainly because the female ones still work under the council, the male ones believe they’re not smart enough to question what the council tells them. And not to offend anyone but from what we usually see they’re spot on.”

 

“What do you mean by that?” Giles asked curiously.

 

“Well we’ve met other female slayers that don’t trust the council, yet they trusted what their books said. With logic like that we have to question how their brains work.” Hornet responds.

 

Buffy, Faith, Giles & Wesley were the most shocked by that information. Because they’ve said themselves they don’t trust the council, then talk about their books like they’re gospel.

 

“So, do the other slayers date vamps as well?” Gunn asked

 

“The male & female slayers date mostly vampires.”

 

“What do you mean mostly?” Andrew asks curiously.

 

“Well Hornet’s wife’s a slayer.” Arkillius jumps in.

 

“You said slayers can’t date humans.” Riley interrupts angrily.

 

“Correction, Sirrus told you slayers can’t date ‘normal’ humans, Hornet’s a mutant.”

 

Xander not being able to keep his mouth shut anymore speaks up. “But the other slayers end up with vampires? But they’re soulless.”

 

Arkillius, Hornet, Bedlam, Sirrus, Angelus & Lindsey look at him like he’s insane. But it’s Bedlam that decides to inform him.

 

“Who told you that? Because it’s not true at all.”

 

“What? Are you saying vampires have souls?” Giles asked flabbergasted.

 

He raises an eyebrow at him, “Yeah, that’s exactly what I’m saying.”

 

Angel interrupts, “No they don’t, I’m the only vampire with a soul.”

 

He stares directly at him but addresses Tara. “Tara? You can read auras correct?”

 

She looked surprised that she’s even being acknowledged. “Y-Y-Yes, b-but h-h-h-how?”

 

He looks at her with a gentle smile, “How did I know?” She nods, “Wicharei have an ability to see what magical people are capable of. The power radiating off you is amazing, If you got your confidence up you could even survive an encounter with Salazar.”

 

She looks down, “I’m n-not that s-strong.”

 

He gets up & walks over, with his superior healing the wound from Salazar’s already gone. He crouches in front of her puts two fingers under her chin and lifts her head so she’s eye level with him.

 

“Listen, I don’t know who told you that or why everyone let’s you believe it. But it’s not true I can see the power you possess, its an extraordinary site and you’re going to do great things. All you have to do is accept it.”

 

“T-Thanks, I-I-I’ll t-try.”

 

“Good, now I need you to look at Spike, Lawson & Angelus and tell me what you see. And just to inform everyone else I can see it too, I just think it’s time to teach her & you something important. Go ahead Tara.”

 

She nods and looks at Spike, Lawson & Angelus. “T-Their auras are d-d-darker than everyone e-else’s, I’m s-s-sorry but I’m n-not sure w-what I’m supposed t-t-to be seeing.” Her stutter seemed to get better at the belief Bedlam placed in her. ‘He seems to give off a calming feeling, I can feel my confidence seem to rise when he’s near.’

 

He just smiles, “That’s the thing, you saw exactly what you were supposed to. A bit of information for everyone, real soulless being’s don’t have auras.”

 

Everyone looks baffled by the news, even Anya’s eyes rounded in disbelief at the last bit of information. Bedlam continues before anyone can speak.

 

“Now Tara, use the aura sight on me.”

 

She gasped so loud everyone looked at her. When they did her eye’s were wide with amazement. “Y-You don’t h-h-have one.”

 

He faces the rest of the room arms out wide. “Congratulations, you’ve met your first actual soulless being.”

 

Everyone’s jaws practically hit the floor at that, making Hornet, Sirrus & Arkillius find it hard to hide their amusement.

 

Xander jumps to his feet in a panic, “You’re Soulless?! You’re dangerous then.”

 

He just stares at him, “You bunch of retards couldn’t tell the difference between soulless & souled beings. So do you mind telling me where you got that information, when you’ve never actually sodding met one? Until now that is.”

 

No one could think of a response to that, until Angel asks a question. “So, what did they curse me with if I’ve always had a soul?”

 

“They cursed you with a human soul, something with you being a vampire you aren’t actually supposed to possess. But what makes it worse its not even your soul you’re cursed with.”

 

“WHAT?” Was the response from most of the shop occupants.

 

“The only one we’ve actually met that was cursed with his own soul was Angelus, and that’s because he had a different upbringing to the rest of you.”

 

Giles interrupts, “Sorry for the interruption, what souls are vampires supposed to possess?”

 

“Vampiric souls obviously, you know with them being vampires.” He said it like it was obvious.

 

“So why did Angel get cursed If he already had one?” Buffy asks confused.

 

Bedlam, Hornet, Arkillius & Sirrus glance at each other. Which made everyone else look worried.

 

“You really sure you want to know? Because if you do, we have to tell you something extremely classified for you to understand. And if you know it could destroy the last beliefs you hold dear.” Sirrus responds.

 

The rest of the room glanced at each other, now officially scared even Riley was a bit worried at the seriousness in his voice. They all nodded but Giles spoke.

 

“Yes, we’d like to know, what’s the thing you have to tell us involve?”

 

“It’s why The Masters of Evil were locked away.”

 

“What did they do?” He had a feeling of dread at his possible answer.

 

“They’re the ones who created the souls.”

 

Everyone’s eyes filled with horror at the news.

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

Salazar was sat in his throne, his wound from Bedlam healed awhile ago. He gets out a cigarette puts it in his mouth & lights it up, after a drag he exhales out the smoke, he then stands up walks over to the window and looks at the moon. After a couple more drags he finishes the cigarette then puts it out, he turns to address his minions.

 

“Get everyone ready, they hold the information on the slayers and Glory. Tomorrow morning we’re doing another raid, and if any of you are wondering why we’re doing it tomorrow because that’s when they’re at work.”

 

Some minions nod and go to inform the rest, he then makes a ancient parchment materialise out of thin air. He passes it to a nearby minion.

 

“I don’t care how you do it, but get me those sodding ingredients. They still aren’t taking me seriously, I think it’s time to up the ante.”

 

The minion nodded and left, he turns and starts walking towards the door. “I think I’ll pay the goody goods a visit.”

 

******

 

Magic Box, Sunnydale, California

 

Giles breaks the silence, “What do you mean they created souls?”

 

“Exactly what it sounds like, before they made them everyone was soulless. When they accidentally created the first monsters & demons, they accidentally created them with souls so they knew they could do it. They eventually decided to create human souls, but the problem is they meant to do that, they fucked with them so bad that it caused the first ultimate apocalypse. It affected all of creation.”

 

Buffy interrupts, “What did they do? & why did they do it?” Her voice sounded like a little girl with how terrified she was. She pulled herself closer to Spike.

 

“One of the Masters fell in love which he seen as a weakness, I don’t know why because no one in their right minds would step against The Masters of Evil. We eventually had no choice, but anyway they created what we now dub ‘The Dark Soul’ its whole purpose was to stop emotions not create them. How souls are usually white in colour this one’s black, they locked one each inside themselves then sent the rest to humanity. It was the most catastrophic thing to occur, rapes, murders, torture you name it humanity did it. The ultimate alliance was formed, D.U.S.T., the first vampires, werewolves, demons and so on joined forces. The monsters & demons joined us because the Masters were even killing them, the last to join us in the fight were The Masters of Good. The battle went on for days without sleep, but we eventually won by creating The Cage and locking them in it.”

 

Everyone was listening intently wondering what the catch was, they didn’t have to wait long though as Sirrus continued.

 

“The Masters of Good altered the souls to what you know now, but the problem was The Masters of Evil knew they would. When the souls were altered it unlocked hidden emotions that were built in, those said emotions eventually leaked out joining the rest. Emotions like jealousy, rage, anger and so on, with these new emotions it brought with it a whole wave of new problems like depression, suicide, mental illness the list goes on. What we didn’t know at the time is it wasn’t a fix, some of The Masters of Evils influence remained in the souls. For example when you have a crazy dark thought and think ‘Where did that come from?’ that’s the evilness still left in the soul trying to get you to act on them. You have free will so it’s your choice, but if you do act on those thoughts the soul starts returning to its original dark state.”

 

They were still listening intently, then Jonathan voiced a theory. “That’s why criminals eventually stop feeling guilt isn’t it? Because their souls dark again?”

 

He nods, “Yeah, it eventually stops the good emotions, just leaving behind the bad ones.”

 

Faith finally speaks up her voice holding fear. “OK, I can see why you made that information classified. But that still doesn’t explain why Angel got cursed with a soul.”

 

“Because of his actions as a human, Liam’s soul turned dark again, keep this in mind it’s nearly impossible to turn it back again once it’s dark. We can’t even do it, the problem is dark souls aren’t welcome in hell or heaven, meaning it’s got nowhere to go.”

 

Giles’s eyes widened, “Meaning it stays in the body, so when Angel was turned the dark soul stayed inside him.”

 

He looks directly at Angel, “Spot on, that’s the main reason you’re one of the most dangerous vampires to exist, here anyway. The gypsies knew you see, so when they cursed you they used the child’s grandmother’s soul. They added every emotion to it tenfold knowing the dark soul first attacks certain emotions, with this soul coming with something it was never supposed to possess and more emotion than should be possible, it never managed to stop every emotion.”

 

Angel looked dumbfounded, “So, that’s why I can love Buffy? Because it couldn’t stop all my emotions?”

 

He just looks at him sympathetically, making Ethan voice his own theory. “The main emotion it stops is love isn’t it? I mean it makes sense, if the main reason they created them was because one of them was in love.”

 

He nods, “I’m sorry Angel, but you never loved Buffy. The dark soul wouldn’t allow it. What you felt was obsession, you can’t love at all because of it.”

 

Everyone looked floored at that bit of information, Buffy looked upset by the news and voiced it. “Angel never loved me?”

 

Hornet rolls his eyes and interrupted. “Oh Please! You couldn’t sodding love him either, so don’t start complaining.”

 

“What do you mean? Of course I loved him.” Everyone noticed she said ‘loved’ not ‘love’

 

Sirrus answers her, “No you didn’t, with Spike being your soulmate & slayer mate. Your slayer wouldn’t allow it, it’s also possible she could sense the dark soul. But it wasn’t love it was lust that’s all, I mean some other Buffy’s thought Angel was their soulmate. There’s a spell to prove he wasn’t, that was just a young girl living in a fantasy, one I hope you’ve grown out of. The amount of trouble alternate versions of you caused with that fantasy was extremely irritating.”

 

Buffy looked ashamed instantly understanding what trouble he meant. “I’m sorry I caused you trouble, I just thought I was in love.”

 

Hornet snorts, “From what every other version of you told us, you couldn’t stand him when you first met him. Thinking he was a creep popping out the shadows, being cryptic. I could never figure out how you all of a sudden loved him. So it’s complete bollocks, you were a delusional little girl with sodding daddy issues. Jumping at the first creepy old man to show interest in you, I mean from Finn's background information he was your bloody TA, another guy that would treat you like a child, but instead of thinking it’s wrong which it bloody well is, you date him instead. Spike’s the first guy you’ve shown interest in that doesn’t think he controls you, so maybe you have finally grown up.” Hornet was pacing angrily after his rant.

 

Angel looked hurt at what Buffy thought about him. Buffy had a mix of understanding & hurt on her face. The understanding because everything he said had truth to it, and she knew from Spike that Hornet gets angry easily. The hurt because even though it was true, didn’t mean it didn’t hurt.

 

Hornet seemed to notice her look of hurt, “I apologise if what I said hurt you, but you have no clue how much it pisses me off. Spike’s one of the best guys I know, yet some of the other Buffy’s used to think that scruffy fucker.” He points at Angel, “Was better than Spike. Talk about delusional, I can’t stand him, the only one I can stand Is Angelus here. You Angel’s pissed me off so much, I went to an alternate reality and dusted that Angel before he ever met buffy. I then replaced him with that Spike and guess what? That Buffy’s happily mated & married to him.”

 

Giles interrupts, “I can honestly see why you did that, the amount of pain Angel caused Buffy. If I could go back in time and stop him turning up I would. But back to the soul problem, is that the reason Salazar’s family are as evil as they are?”

 

Sirrus chuckles at the look on Angel’s face then answers Giles. “Sort of, we don’t know how but they’ve figured out a way to keep all their emotions. But with how old & powerful The Serpent Family are I’m not surprised.”

 

Kate speaks up with a theory of her own. “I’m guessing that this Angelus never gave into the dark thoughts back when he was human?”

 

“You’re right he didn’t, he was respected even by his father.”

 

Angelus jumps in the conversation, “And I never killed my family either, soul boy there probably told you all vampires kill their families once turned. That’s bullshit I never did, Darla wasn’t happy when I refused but I couldn’t care less I loved my family, I still do.”

 

Wesley interrupts, “Of course! With you not having a dark soul when you died it moved on, meaning you were still you after turning, remarkable this answers quite a few questions.”

 

“Yeah I was, I’m like Spike & Dru the three of us refused to kill at first, hunting animals for blood. Darla wasn’t having that though. Used her sire shit to force us. I wasn’t happy about that at all, but to stop her doing it again we did as she told us. After I got my human soul back though, I told her if she didn’t drink the blood D.U.S.T. supplied us I’d dust her.”

 

“What about Drusilla? You said she refused to kill?” Giles asked in disbelief.

 

It was Spike that answered his question with one of his own. “You didn’t make her insane did you?” His voice was full of emotion, so much that Buffy gently squeezed the hand she was still holding.

 

Angelus looked offended, “Of course not, she was still a seer though. When we came across William Dru said he needed turning, because him and a ‘blonde slayer’ were destined to be together. Luckily Darla wasn’t there and didn’t hear her, from that moment on I knew.”

 

Giles spoke up his voice full of amazement, “You knew he would join the good side, and instead of abandoning them you stayed. Willing to join the good side to stay with your family, utterly astounding.”

 

Everyone looked at him amazed. Except Angel, Riley & Xander. Angel looked jealous that this Angelus could do all the stuff he couldn’t. Riley was still refusing to believe what he heard. Xander was mainly jealous of how close Spike & Buffy were.

 

Xander’s thoughts were not going in a good direction. ‘She can’t date normal humans? What if I wasn’t normal or a human? I’m sure I can figure something out I won’t let my dream of having Buffy die.’ Little did Xander understand, he was giving in to his dark thoughts.

 

Angelus answers Giles, not having any idea what was going on inside Xander’s head. “Yeah, of course I’d never abandon my family.”

 

Faith asks something that’s been worrying her. “I’ve been in prison, how do I know if my souls turning dark?”

 

Bedlam answers her, “Oh right, of course you don’t know. Slayers don’t have to worry as you don’t have human souls.”

 

“WHAT?” Buffy & Faith shout simultaneously.

 

“You have slayer souls.” He stated matter-of-factly.

 

Buffy suddenly got angry and turned to glare at Giles & Wesley. “The council knew, it all makes sense now. How they treat us like weapons and don’t pay us, Salazar practically pointed it out, when he said they command us like dogs. The council don’t see us as people because to them we’re not.”

 

Giles reassures her, “I promise you Buffy,  we didn’t know, it came as quite the shock to us also.”

 

“So Why do we get treated like shit?” Faith asked accusingly.

 

Hornet decides to give them a bit more knowledge, “Quentin Travers knows for definite. I remember him trying to justify not paying slayers by saying ‘Its a sacred duty’ he didn’t like it when I responded ‘being a watchers a sacred duty but you fuckers still get paid' He was even more baffled when I told him D.U.S.T. members get paid.”

 

Giles & Wesley didn’t know how to respond, Travers kept this a secret from them. They really couldn’t find an argument for why watchers get paid and not slayers, because as Hornet just pointed out they’re both sacred duties. Buffy had no problem finding a response though.

 

“Of course Travers knew, what else was I expecting from that toad? I can’t believe they kept it a secr......” Buffy trailed off as another thought occurred to her. “Did he know about the slayers can’t date humans law and the reasons for it existing?”

 

“Yeah he did.”

 

Buffy & Faith looked outraged. everyone else looked angry. Riley still looked like he didn’t believe it and Xander was still thinking of possible ways to be with Buffy.

 

Before anyone could speak though Angelus interrupts, “EVERYONE GET DOWN!!!!”

 

They all got to the floor just as the front windows & door of the shop shattered with some force sending glass hurtling inwards. When they lifted their heads to look at the front of the shop, they see a smirking Salazar in the doorway.

 

“Whoops, that was a bit excessive wasn’t it?”

 

Sirrus jumps to his feet, “Salazar, what do you want?” He demanded.

 

Salazar sighs, “The Key, isn’t it obvious? I’m bored of waiting and seeing as I blew Glory’s apartment complex sky high, she’s in hiding amassing her forces. Silly hell whore actually believes she can beat me, that’s a laugh.”

 

Everyone else gets to their feet, then Giles questions him, “You blew up Glory’s apartment? Why?”

 

He looks at him like he’s stupid, “Because unlike you bunch of retards I want the enemies out the way. You lot strike me as the types to wait for months till the bad guys nearly won. Then strike at the very last minute and start bitching & moaning about how you nearly lost, its pathetic.”

 

Everyone glared at him not wanting to admit they usually do wait till the last minute. Angel steps forward deciding to speak up.

 

“You’re not going to win, we’ll stop you.”

 

He raises an eyebrow at him, “Big, tall & broody, you must be Angel the prancing paedophile my minions told me about.”

 

Angel growled, “I’m not a paedophile.”

 

He smirks, “Isn’t that what you call someone who takes a 17 year olds virginity? I don’t fuck kids, I’m evil not sick.”

 

Buffy looked humiliated and everyone saw it. That just made Salazar’s smirk widen. Faith decides to back her up.

 

“How’s about you back off? You think you’re a big man poking fun at people?”

 

“I’m just seeing how you all like it, from what I’ve heard you’ve bullied things for being a different species. Naughty Naughty, actions like that and you all still think you’re the good guys? How sad can you actually get.” He looks her over, “You must be Faith? I’ve heard about you, so they finally figured out you couldn’t do fuck all to help locked up did they? There might be braincells in their heads after all.”

 

Riley hearing enough interrupts, “All these demons are working with you aren’t they?” His voice full of suspicion. The demons in question are of course Spike, Lawson, Angelus, Angel, Lorne & Clem. He would have included Doyle but he doesn’t know he’s a demon.

 

Salazar rolls his eyes, “No you great spastic, I’m not working with any of them. Fuck me how thick can you get? I’m struggling to believe someone as dumb as you is even real, let alone survived this long. Did your mum try drowning you as a child? The lack of bloody braincells has to mean something. I think it’s time I show you fuckers just how dangerous I am.”

 

Green lightning shoots out of his hand sending Riley flying across the table. Faith advances on him ready to fight, they both start trading blows back and forth with everyone watching on. She gets a lucky punch splitting his lip, he knees her under the chin the force lifts her up off the ground, he then delivered a punch to her stomach winding her. With her being in the air the punch knocks her across the room where she crashes into a shelf dislocating her shoulder.

 

April approaches him and punches him, he looks shocked for a second at her strength, but then recovers and starts fighting back. After a couple more attacks back and forth its clear Salazar grows bored, with a spin kick he takes her head completely of her shoulders.

 

He looks shocked at first then that changes to amusement, “A Robot? Her punch actually hurt, but if that’s the best you’ve got. Then this won’t take long at all.”

 

Angel steps forward and him & Salazar start fighting next, Angel even goes into game face as he throws a punch that connects with Salazar’s jaw, he responds with a headbutt which knocks Angel off balance, he follows up with a kick to Angel’s chest making him fly across the room knocking half the spectators to the ground.

 

He grabs Dawn trying to take her outside and she screams, “BUFFY! SPIKE!” Buffy charges at him making him throw Dawn aside, resulting in her hitting her head on the table and knocking her out. Buffy’s anger was working in her favour as she was able to keep Salazar on his toes. He got backed up to the till.

 

As the fight was going on Xander looked to see what the D.U.S.T. members were doing, they seem to be in the process of doing a spell. He turned back seeing Buffy still fighting Salazar, with Angelus, Lawson & Spike approaching. ‘No way in hell am I letting them be the heroes, I’ll save Buffy then she’ll finally see me.” He conveniently forgot about the ‘slayers can’t date humans’ law and the fact Buffy hates being protected. Xander charges at Salazar.

 

Salazar still fighting Buffy sees Xander charge out the corner of his eye. His approach catches Buffy off guard and she falters, giving Salazar an opening he grabs her by the throat, and choke slams her through the glass counter at the till. Joyce hits him in the back with a small statue, he responds by backhanding her knocking her into a nearby shelf. He then punches Xander in the nose breaking it.

 

Angelus, Lawson, Spike, Gunn, Kate, Ethan and Giles all attack him at once. Tara & Wesley were over by Sirrus, Hornet, Bedlam & Arkillius helping with the spell. It was nearly done. Once it was done Salazar flew backwards out the shop and crash landed on the pavement. He got up walked over to the front of the shop, or what’s left of it, putting his hand out until it came in contact with an invisible barrier. This caused him to laugh.

 

“Well, isn’t that disappointing, I’ll be back for the key slayer just you wait and see.” With those parting words he turned into green smoke and flew down the street.

 

Sirrus turns to everyone, “What’s the damage?”

 

Spike who was helping buffy off the counter answers him. “Gunn's hands broke, Faith’s shoulders dislocated, Dawn’s fine but unconscious, Harris has a broken nose and I think Joyce’s jaws broken, April got her head knocked off, but she can be fixed, the rest of us are just a bit bruised.” ‘Got to call them by their names, don’t want to waste time explaining the nicknames.’

 

He nods, “Bedlam fix them as best you can, the spells in place so he can’t come back. April will have to wait though, we’ll let Willow try and fix her first.”

 

Bedlam nods and starts healing people the best he can, due to being weak from the spell.

 

“What does the spell do?” Giles asked curiously.

 

“It stops Salazar or anyone working with him, from entering any properties owned by everyone here. We had to help Bedlam cast it, it can drain quite a lot of energy.”

 

Everyone nodded their understanding, Spike had a bone to pick with Xander though.

 

“What did you tell him Whelp?” Spike asked accusingly.

 

“What the hell you talking about blood breath?”

 

“When he told you and sodding soldier boy he was after the key? Why did he try to take Dawn?” he growled.

 

Buffy, Joyce, Giles, Tara, Anya, Willow & Angelus all looked at him accusingly. Bedlam, Sirrus, Arkillius & Hornet looked thoughtful. Everyone else looked confused.

 

Xander puts his hands up, “I didn’t say a thing, I don’t know why he went for Dawn.”

 

“Salazar doesn’t know, if he did there’s nothing that would stop him getting her.” Arkillius states matter-of-factly.

 

Buffy looked confused, “Then why did he try taking her?”

 

“Because he’s probably figured out she’s your sister, luckily he doesn’t know the rest.”

 

Giles interrupts, “How do you know about her?”

 

“We’re not stupid pal, Bedlam knew the second he walked in and she isn’t the only Buffy who has a Dawn. Even Angelus knows.” Hornet responds.

 

Spike looks at Angelus, “You knew about Dawn?”

 

“Yeah, we fought Glory back in my world.”

 

Angel finally has enough, “What does the key have to do with Dawn?” He demanded

 

“Well, seeing as Salazar stepped up his game everyone’s in danger, meaning by D.U.S.T. law they have to be informed. Especially if they’re fighting to stop him getting it.”

 

The original Sunnydale residents glance at each other then nod, Riley still looks confused. Buffy goes to open her mouth But Hornet cuts in.

 

“Hang on.” He looks at Bedlam who in return nods and freezes Riley. “Carry on.”

 

“What’s just happened?” She asked confused.

 

He rolls his eyes, “We don’t trust Finn, can you guarantee he won’t tell Salazar when he finds out? With his reaction to everything else supernatural we can’t.”

 

She nods her understanding then turns back to everyone else. “Dawn’s the key.”

 

The A.I. team, Lawson, Jonathan, Andrew, Clem, Ethan & Oz’s eyes widen in shock.

 

Lawson recovered first, “Doesn’t change a thing chief, we aren’t letting him get her." His voice was full of determination.

 

Everyone else recovered from the shock and agreed. Anya spoke up then.

 

“Of course we won’t let him have Dawn, but what about the shop? How am I supposed to make money now?”

 

Sirrus chuckles, “Not to worry Anya, once Salazar’s dealt with we’ll fix it up. Its pointless doing it now, just because that spell physically keeps him out, it doesn’t stop him blowing it up.”

 

“Oh that’s fine then, as long as the shops up and running again after he’s defeated. I have to have a job to get money to live.”

 

Hornet laughs, “You’re a riot, not to worry It’ll be sorted.”

 

Joyce now with her jaw healed just sore speaks up, “Where are we going to stay? We were staying at my house before, but there’s too many to stay there now.”

 

“We have that covered, it’s a safehouse located in its own mini dimension. With special key’s any door can be used to access it. There’s enough rooms for all of us.” Sirrus informs everyone.

 

“Bedlam, before you unfreeze Finn wipe his memory of the conversation about Dawn from before you froze him.” Hornet instructs him.

 

He nods and does just that, once Riley’s unfrozen he sees everyone staring at him. Something that irritates him immensely.

 

“What are you all staring at?” He demanded.

 

Hornet shrugs, “You zoned out, we thought you’d gone more braindead than you already were.”

 

“I’m not braindead!” he snapped angrily.

 

“If you say so Gormless.”

 

Riley looked confused not knowing what the word meant, however Wesley, Doyle, Giles, Ethan, Spike, Sirrus, Bedlam, Arkillius & Angelus all chuckled at it. Everyone else looked confused as well.

 

Arkillius confronts Riley, “You’re not exactly smart are you? Salazar’s a very proud individual and you’re thinking he’s not dangerous enough to do this himself. He’s obviously going to take offence, that’s the reason he attacked, if you kept your mouth shut he’ll have just insulted everyone then left. The only reason he turned up is so you don’t forget he’s here.”

 

Giles looks at Riley with clear anger, “You daft pillock, if you kept your bloody gob shut and didn’t offend the extremely obvious dangerous enemy, none of us would’ve been injured at all. You’re more than in denial, You’re sodding suicidal!”

 

“You’re the one’s in denial! Salazar’s not dangerous he can’t be.” Riley responded angrily.

 

Wesley looks at him in distain, “And prey tell, why is that exactly?”

 

“Because I’m the hero not the villain and I brought him here!” Riley’s eyes widened at his own words, then he ran out the shop and down the street.

 

Hornet interrupted the silence left by Riley’s departure. “The muppet may finally wake up after all.”

 

Xander got angry at Hornet’s careless attitude. “Aren’t you supposed to be a good guy? why do you always sound so careless?”

 

He raises an eyebrow, “I am a good guy, what you’re referring to is a nice guy. If anyone in this line of work tells you they’re nice they’re full of shit. And if you believe someone’s nice in this line of work you’re stupid. You kill things for fuck sake! You can’t claim to be nice then in the next sodding breath take somethings life. Before you say it’s in self-defence that doesn’t mean anything, you’re still killing things. Most demons you meet may only be trying to kill you in self-defence, but that doesn’t matter to you because they’re demons. So tell me how that makes you nice?”

 

Everyone realised he was right, Xander though turned out to still be in denial about somethings.

 

“No I’m a nice guy!” Xander said defensively.

 

He looks at him in disbelief, “You’re a guy who lied to his friend about remembering trying to rape her, I bet if anyone else tried be it by possession or being so desperate & destroyed they make a mistake, then after they realise what they did was wrong and choose to change for the better. You’d never let them live it down, You’d constantly bring up that said someone tried to rape her, all the while knowing you did but lied about remembering to get in her pants. Yeah you’re a sodding jewel.”

 

Xander looked angry & embarrassed, that was enough for everyone to know he’d do just that. Lie about remembering and constantly bring it up if someone else tried it. Before anyone could open their mouths though Hornet continued.

 

“You’re also just as offensive as me, only when I tell someone what I think I don’t disguise it as a fucking joke. Your also the biggest pussy going, all the problems In your life you take out on everyone else, you constantly bully Spike then the second the chips out his head avoid him. Not fun when your victims hit back is it? You constantly blame Buffy for this world’s Angelus coming back, when according to my knowledge he did fuck all to you. He killed the watchers girlfriend, Willow’s fish, stalked Buffy, Joyce & Dawn, but what did he do to you? Fuck all that’s what. You only kept bringing it up in hopes she’d open her legs for you, and while we’re on the subject of Buffy’s ex’s, you’re defending Riley and I don’t know why, do you still honestly believe he’s gonna be your friend, when he knows that you’ve had the hot’s for his bird hoping she’d dump him for you?”

 

Everyone let that sink in because it was all true. Xander was shaking with rage and stormed out the shop. Giles then had a question.

 

“How did you know all that stuff about Xander?” He asks curiously.

 

He smirks, “Met that twat in the other worlds too, so I basically knew all of it. I’ve actually met some half decent versions of him, but most act like that tosser, I knew just what to say to prove he wasn’t fully out of denial like he claimed. The only thing I didn’t know about was him was him being possessed, it makes me wonder how many others lied.”

 

“Then if you knew all of it, why ask Xander for his full name earlier?” Giles asked confused.

 

“So not to give away the fact I already knew him, if people like him know you know them they get defensive, but if they don’t know you do, then they start getting cocky and their true colours show.”

 

“Ah, very sneaky.” Giles said with a chuckle.

 

“I never realised just how bad Xander was.” Dawn said, no one noticed she woke up before Hornet’s verbal beat down.

 

Buffy, Spike & Joyce go over to see if she’s alright, Buffy & Joyce are checking her for injuries while Spike asked how she is.

 

“Are you hurt Nibblet?”

 

“No I’m fine, my heads a bit sore but that’s all.”

 

Joyce speaks up, “Now all the excitements out the way, how do we get to this safehouse?”

 

“It’s not difficult.” Sirrus responds then walks over to the training room door, puts something on the handle and pushes. Everyone walks over to look and their eyes widen in amazed wonder. They entered the doorway as Arkillius picked up April’s body & head then followed, Angelus did the same with his duffle.

 

****** 

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

As they walked through the door from the magic box, they found themselves on what looks like the Scottish Highlands. The sky looked like space but was full of galaxies & nebulas making it look more amazing, there was a sun in the distance lighting up the land. Angel, Angelus, Spike & Lawson tried to cover themselves from the sun, only to discover they wasn’t burning. There was animals they’d never seen before in the distance and what looked like a mansion, it was huge with easily enough rooms for all of them and more. Everyone looked around in amazement.

 

Buffy’s eyes were full of wonder, “Wow, this place is amazing. I’ve never seen anything like it.”

 

“Yes this place is remarkable.” Giles added his voice full of amazement.

 

“This isn’t nearly the nicest place we’ve seen in our travels, some of the sights I seen took my breath away.” Sirrus informs them.

 

“I bet you see some amazing sights travelling all the time, but surely you also see terrifying ones too?” Cordelia asked curiously.

 

“Yeah we do, some of the dimensions we’ve seen scared the shit out of me. Had a job to do though, fear can’t get in the way of saving the world.” Hornet responds.

 

“You don’t strike me as being scared of anything man.” Gunn said full of shock.

 

“I’m not gonna lie, the first few times I fought Salazar he fucking terrified me. Mainly because he was a member of The Serpent Family, but he was good at fear inducing himself. After awhile though he just started pissing me off, there’s still some fear behind it though with the stuff I know he’s capable of, it would be stupid not to be scared of him. You think you’ve seen the worst believe me you haven’t, he’s just getting started.”

 

Everyone let’s that sink in, Giles then asks a question that’s been on his mind. “What possible damage could we be looking at in the future?” His voice held worry.

 

“You need to understand, I’m telling you this so you can see how dangerous he actually is. I’ve got this gut feeling, it’s a feeling I’ve had when Salazar’s been involved twice before and that scares me.”

 

“What’s the feeling?” Faith asked her voice held fear.

 

“The last two times I felt this, Salazar was going for an extinction event.”

 

Everyone felt terror at the thought, Kate spoke up her voice full of determination. “We have to stop him, we’re the only chance the people have.”

 

Everyone nodded to that statement, then Bedlam through a ring at Oz who looked at it confused.

 

“A ring? What’s it for?” His voice was full of curiosity.

 

“It’s a special ring made specifically for werewolves, it let’s you remain in full control in wolf form, and the clothes you’re wearing at the time materialise back on your body after you turn back. Did I mention it let’s you wolf out anytime you want?” Bedlam finishes with a smile at his look of wonder.

 

“Seriously? This is great, it will come in handy in this fight.”

 

“More than this fight pal, it’s yours.”

 

“Thanks, this is amazing.”

 

Willow pulled Sirrus aside, “You were right, I need magical training, I felt Salazar’s power earlier and he’s not someone I can handle.” Her voice was full of fear.

 

“It’s good you’ve acknowledged that, but you need to ask Bedlam, he can teach you.”

 

“OK I will, thanks.”

 

Sirrus nods then makes his way back to the group.

 

“Angel, Angelus, Lawson, Spike, you four will be drinking human blood, we need you strong for Salazar and the animal shit just doesn’t cut it. We have a magically endless supply here.” Sirrus commands in a way that obviously means no arguments.

 

They nod but Wesley asks the main question most people are thinking. “What do you mean by ‘magically endless supply’?”

 

“Well it’s actually a mix of magic, science & technology, but basically we have special fridges that freeze blood in time. With the blood always being in date, we just clone the blood.”

 

“Fascinating, is that how you have a blood delivery service?”

 

“Yeah it’s not free though, you have to pay weekly, monthly, or yearly.”

 

“Yes, D.U.S.T. also have a service similar to Amazon for the supernatural, you have to inform them what you want the item for though if its potentially dangerous.” Anya added on matter-of-factly.

 

Hornet shrugs, “It’s two of the ways D.U.S.T. get money, there’s billions of members and we all get paid. We weren’t bothered with the money, but Sirrus said we’d tire ourselves out if we had to fight evil, then get a job on top of it to keep ourselves fed. So D.U.S.T. is a job, it’s a two birds with one stone deal, we can stop evil & keep ourselves fed.”

 

“I’d love to get paid by the council.” Buffy grumbled.

 

“There’s a reason you’re not, but Faith should be.”

 

“What reason’s that?” Buffy asked confused.

 

Sirrus explains, “Because of a law we created, it sounds worse than it actually is though. Basically an alternate version of you was being harassed by the council, so we made a law that they only have power over The Slayer. Meaning the slayer the line runs through, that’s Faith because you died the line moved on. Meaning they don’t legally have to pay you, and they have no control over you. We had to get involved when they tried the Tento di Cruciamentum on another Buffy after another slayer was active. The law only affects slayers that died and came back though, meaning if multiple got activated without one dying the council has power over all of them. Unless they quit of course.” quite a few faces paled at the mention of the ritual.

 

Giles was deep in thought as they approached the mansion. ‘We broke the law by putting Buffy through the Cruciamentum. Buffy died and the line moved on, we had no authority to put her through it. Dear Lord! I regretted it before, but that just proves how wrong it was.’

 

Wesley was also in his thoughts, ‘I just followed the council without question. What other laws of theirs have we broken?’

 

Buffy was also thinking hard, ‘It was illegal! Travers broke the law by putting me through the Cruciamentum. I knew he was a toad.’ Buffy had a thought, one she had to voice.

 

“So how am I supposed to get money? Slaying and having a job will be exhausting.”

 

“Well, you could become a D.U.S.T. free agent, Some other Buffy’s did.”

 

“What’s a free agent?”

 

“It basically means you continue what you’re doing already, only you get paid. Free agents aren’t required to leave the world or place they’re in. Only if an events big enough it requires all hands on deck.”

 

Hornet interrupts, “But even free agents have to follow Sirrus, you’ll be a member of D.U.S.T. so you’d have to know all our laws, and you can’t give your friends passes if they break them.”

 

She nods, “Can I think about it?”

 

“Yeah feel free, we’ll give you the contract to look through.” Sirrus finishes as he pushed the doors to the mansion open.

 

Everyone entered looking around amazed at the size & decor, after a couple more complements about how nice it was Sirrus gave them a quick tour. By the time he was finished it was 11pm and they decided to turn in. Buffy made sure she got the room next to Spike’s she just had a feeling she needed him close. After Buffy settled down to sleep she began to dream.

 

******

 

Buffy’s Dream – Start

 

She was standing in the middle of a deserted Sunnydale at night, mostly everyone was with her but a few people were missing. Spike was stood to her left holding her hand, the town looked like it had a dome over it blocking their escape. Across the space in front of them stood Salazar with an army of demons & some type of unknown vampire.

 

The scene changed, an eclipse starts and Salazar’s stood on a roof watching & laughing. Multiple flashes of people getting eaten by vampires all over the world.

 

The scene changed, there’s an explosion followed by multiple screams, stood nearby all of them are in tears looking at the building, Salazar’s laughing can be heard nearby.

 

The scene changed to the welcome to Los Angeles sign and that’s all it showed.

 

Buffy’s Dream – End

 

******

 

She woke up in a sweat, looking round the room she sees the clock saying it’s 3am. She gets up and exits her room, she walks and knocks on Spike’s door. After a couple of minutes he answers looking like he’s just woke up and got dressed.

 

“Buffy? What’s wrong?” Spike’s voice is full of confusion.

 

“I think I had a slayer dream, I can’t sleep alone after what I saw. Can I stay with you?” her voice sounded hopeful to his ears.

 

“Sure.” His eyes are full of awe as he steps aside to let her in.

 

“Thanks, I’m sorry for waking you but the dream scared me.”

 

“Nothing to apologise for, I’m hear whenever you need me luv. What was the dream about?”

 

Buffy smiles sweetly at the first part, then grew serious at the question. She explains the dream the best she can, by the end Spike looks a bit worried.

 

“That sound’s serious, but it’s late we’ll tell everyone else tomorrow.” He climbs back in the bed, keeping his clothes on this time.

 

She nods and with a little shy smile gets in the bed and cuddles up to him. Luckily her room came with pyjamas already in it. After a couple of minutes they were both asleep.

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

It was 9am and everyone who wasn’t effected by the sun was standing in the main room, Salazar was sitting in his throne after a couple of minutes he stands and addresses those gathered.

 

“Load the charges and the weapons, its time for a raid.” He finishes with a smirk.

 

Everyone does as they were told, after everything was ready Salazar opened a green portal and stepped through, the others followed after him.

 

****** 

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

It was 10am when Buffy & Spike woke up, after going to her own room to get dressed. They made their way downstairs to discover everyone already in the kitchen.

 

As they entered Hornet had an amused look and raised his eyebrow at them. Everyone else just looked amused, except Angel who looked unhappy. Buffy blushes at the fact they knew she was in Spike’s room, she decides she doesn’t need to explain it’s no one’s business. But they have to know about the dream.

 

“I had a slayer dream last night. It was about Salazar.”

 

Everyone grew serious at that, “What happened in the dream?” Sirrus questioned.

 

She explains the dream, from the dome over a deserted Sunnydale, to the eclipse, to the explosion and them crying, then the welcome to Los Angeles sign. Finally she explains the vampires she seen.

 

Everyone’s in silence for a couple of minutes, then Fred spoke, “That sound’s very bad, what are we gonna do?”

 

Giles is cleaning his glasses with a thoughtful expression on his face. “Well first we have to figure out when these events take place, as slayer dreams usually tell of future events so we can stop then.

 

Hornet chimes in, “That’s not always true, we’ve known of slayer dreams coming as a warning before, for events that can’t be stopped.”

 

Cordelia jumps in the conversation, “Okay, so what about these vampires? They have to tell us something about his plans.”

 

Sirrus finally speaks up, “They do, that’s the problem.” Everyone except, Hornet, Bedlam & Arkillius looks confused, “The vampires you dreamed about are called Turok-Han.” This caused multiple people gathered to gasp, but the others to be confused.

 

Buffy looked worried, “What’s a Turok-Han?”

 

Giles decides to explain, “As Neanderthals are to human beings, the Turok-Han are to vampires. They’re a primordial, ferociously powerful killing machine, as single-minded as animals. They are the vampires that vampires fear. An ancient and entirely different race, and until just now, I thought they were a myth.”

 

Everyone except the D.U.S.T. members looked worried, Hornet decides to speak. “That was spot on, they are the most dangerous vampires here. Count yourselves lucky you won’t meet worse.”

 

“Where’s he going to get them from? I’ve never seen anything like it.” Buffy’s voice was full of worry.

 

“That’s the problem, there’s only one place he can get them. Salazar’s going to open the Hellmouth.” Sirrus informs them.

 

Everyone felt the seriousness of the situation at that.

 

******

 

The Watchers Council, London, England

 

The green portal opened and Salazar steps out, approaching the man at the desk in front of him, the man decides to address the intruder.

 

“Who the bloody hell are you?” He demanded.

 

Salazar smirks, “Names Salazar Serpent, you have some information I’m interested in, and you’re going to hand it over. Aren’t you Quentin?”

 

Quentin Travers’s eyes widen as multiple demons & humans followed Salazar out the portal.

Notes:

So the truths are out, Slayers can’t date normal humans, souls were created by The Masters of Evil, the creatures they face aren't soulless, Bedlam’s the first actual soulless being they've met, Angel never loved Buffy, and Buffy & Spike belong together.

The 'Road Trip' Genre will be added from this chapter onwards, due to the main place our heroes with gather from now on is the D.U.S.T. Safehouse.

When Hornet talks about dusting an alternate Angel to stop him messing up Buffy’s life, that's a planned prequel series called 'Outside Intervention'

Like the other chapters this is all done by me, let me know what you think.

Chapter 6: Chapter 6 - Overseas Emergency

Notes:

This Chapters shorter, not by much though.

More Hornet truth bombs in this chapter, as well as some Bedlam ones.

Characters updated with this chapter.

The Watchers Council, London, England

 

Salazar laughs at Quentin's look of fear, “Boys, begin the raid.”

 

With laughs and cheers his minions run out the office and swarmed the building, screams of the other watchers can be heard as they are killed.

 

“Now Quentin, I have a problem with a hell-god & two slayers, you’re going to tell me everything you know.”

 

Quentin tries to get his nerves back, with a glare at Salazar he stands and responds. “No I don’t think I will, I’ll be dammed if I let someone like you threaten me.”

 

He raises an eyebrow at him, “You have guts, let’s see what they look like.” Quicker than the eye could see, he brings out a knife and slashes across Quentin’s stomach.

 

The force and speed behind sliced his stomach open, he falls to the chair with his hand over the wound. Hoping to stop his insides falling out. Salazar’s laugh brings his attention back to him.

 

“Don’t worry Quentin, I won’t let you die till I’m done with you. The blade had a little magic that seeped into your blood, no matter what happens you can’t die till I say you can.” He finishes with a smirk at the look of fear on his face.

 

“How did you get in here?” Quentin choked out.

 

“Do you really believe your wards are strong enough to stop me? I mean I’m the reason D.U.S.T. are here.”

 

Quentin’s eyes widened in terror at that, he knows who they are and if this Salazar brought them here, then he’s extremely dangerous. Salazar continues on.

 

“Yes I’m dangerous, now that’s been established I need the information I came for.”

 

“On who?”

 

“Glory, Buffy & Faith, their becoming thorns in my side.....or will do.”

 

“Buffy Summers, Faith Lehane & Glorificus? Have they joined forces?”

 

“No you great pleb, but thanks for the slayers surnames you’re a real pal, anyway we’re all against each other, it’s like a triple threat. I’m against Glory, She’s against me, but we’re both against the slayers, you manage to keep up with that?”

 

Before Quentin could answer the door banged open and a minion strolled in, he handed three files over to Salazar, whom opened said files and took a look. After a couple of minutes he addresses Quentin.

 

“Well, it turns out I didn’t need you after all, my minions found the information. Now I’m going to say the words you long to hear, you have my permission to die Quentin.”

 

With those words blood starts coming from the wound on his stomach & his mouth, but Salazar’s growing bored and uses the knife to slit his throat.

 

He and the minion exit Quentin’s office, the destruction in the halls brought a smirk to his face, he walks down the stairs to the exit of the building calling his minions on the way. As they exit the building there’s multiple police cars, S.W.A.T. vans & news helicopters flying round.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

They were all still in the kitchen talking about ways to stop Salazar opening the Hellmouth, when the alarm began to ring. Arkillius ran to the living room with everyone else following, he turns on the TV which shows a live news broadcast from London.

 

“Breaking news, we’re coming to you live from London, where we believe a terrorist attack is taking place. We now go over to our news correspondent who has eyes on the situation, from a news helicopter above the scene.”

 

Everyone was watching the screen with rapt attention, all wondering what was happening, they didn’t have to wait long. A birds-eye view appeared on the screen making Giles & Wesley gasp.

 

“It’s The Council!” they said simultaneously. The correspondents voice draws them back to the screen.

 

“Thank you Rachel, as you can see nothing more has happened as of yet. The screams and gunshots from inside the building seem to have stopp...wait a minute the doors have opened....I can’t tell you what I’m looking at...a man...with what seem to be....monsters with him has just exited the building.”

 

Everyone’s eyes widen as the camera zoomed in to reveal Salazar and his minions exit the council, his minions were now a mix of demons & humans. The correspondent on screen continues.

 

“The man appears to show no fear of....the creature’s or the police, in fact he seems amused that the police even turned up.”

 

There was an explosion that rocks the helicopter, the correspondents voice returns in a panic.

 

“The building just exploded! The force rocked the helicopter and knocked the police to the ground. But the man and his companions are miraculously unfazed by the explosion, they’re walking away....wait the leader appears to have stopped....what’s he doing? He’s raised his hand in the air.....its starting to rain? I’m struggling to explain what I’m seeing, it’s like he’s causing it to rain but that’s impossible. The sky’s beginning to darken.....DEAR LORD!!! Green lightning seems to be coming from the sky all over London it.....is that? A tornado has appeared it the city-center. Oh God! We’re losing control! we’re going down! Ahhhh!”

 

The helicopter crashes and the camera cuts out, as it cuts back to the news station its empty. The D.U.S.T. members start getting ready while everyone else is still in shock. Giles voice breaks the silence.

 

“The Council is no more. Salazar’s destroyed them, now he plans to destroy London. Dear Lord! The councils gone, I never thought I’d see the day.”

 

Sirrus pulls Buffy aside, “You’re in charge till we return, Rupert & Wesley have gone into shock.”

 

“Okay, but where are you going?”

 

“To London we have to stop that tornado, we can’t take everyone, that could be Salazar’s plan. Stay in this dimension till we return, It could also be his plan to draw us away to make you easy targets.”

 

She nods as Bedlam teleports himself, Hornet, Arkillius & Sirrus out the mansion.

 

“Yo B, where have they just gone?” Faith asked curiously. Her question seemed to inform everyone that the others left.

 

“To London, they have to stop the storm Salazar’s started. We can’t leave this dimension till they’re back, it could be Salazar’s plan to draw them away to get us.”

 

Everyone nodded their understanding, then Kate spoke up.

 

“What did Salazar attack the council for anyway?”

 

Spike speaks up, “They have files of the active slayers, they’re names, addresses, relatives. I bet you they also have info on Glory.”

 

“So this guy probably has mine & B's information?” Faith asked angrily.

 

He nods, “Yeah, and with the council gone that takes away possible future allies.”

 

“What’s he gonna do next? I mean I’m sorry but I’ve never heard of someone this dangerous before.” Fred asked worriedly.

 

“No one has that’s the problem, all my years as a vampire, and even I’ve never come across someone this bad.” Darla informed them matter-of-factly.

 

“I haven’t either, and I’ve worked with some fucked up people.” Lindsey adds on.

 

“You seem to think Wolfram & Harts going to try and get rid of him, ain’t that right Cowboy?” Spike asked.

 

Lindsey rolls his eyes at the nickname, “Yeah, the senior partners are going to want D.U.S.T. gone, and the only way for that to happen is to remove Salazar.”

 

Lawson interrupts, “From what me & Spike learnt about Salazar from Sirrus, I’d say that if Wolfram & Hart tries, he’s going after them next.”

 

Spike nods at what Lawson said, “Yeah, just cos those lawyer types have power here, that doesn’t mean fuck all to him.”

 

Lindsey shrugs, “He takes them out that helps me, I can’t stand anyone working there anyway.”

 

Giles jumps in the conversation, “I must agree, with Wolfram & Hart out the way that’s one less future enemy.”

 

“That may help us in the future Giles, but we need a way to stop Salazar now.” Buffy said with determination.

 

He sighs, “I’m well aware Buffy, however not only has Salazar managed to get demons & vampires to work together, but humans also, which is something Adam never managed. Yet you know how much we struggled against him.”

 

She dropped to the couch with a sigh of defeat. “I know, in a way this is our fault. If we didn’t have that stupid belief about all humans being good, and we didn’t allow Riley & Xander to believe it. Salazar never would have come here. But in a selfish way I’m kinda glad he did.”

 

Joyce gasped, “Buffy!” her voice was full of shock.

 

“I’m sorry mom but it’s true, If Salazar never came here I’d have always had the all humans are good belief, D.U.S.T. wouldn’t have come here meaning that tumour could have killed you, Darla could have died from her syphilis. I wouldn’t have known its illegal for slayers to date humans, and would have continued to let you all push me into relationships I never wanted to be in. For the normal life slayers can’t have because we eventually become immortal, you want the truth? I’ve always wanted Spike since the moment I saw him. But because of the way you would all react I pretended to hate him just like everyone else, I didn’t want the constant complaining from Giles, Willow & Xander about how wrong it was.” She was angrily pacing.

 

Everyone looked at her with wide eyes, Spike had awe in his, Angel had hurt, Willow & Giles had shame, Joyce, Dawn, Faith, Anya & Tara had understanding, everyone else had shock not realising how much the others tried to control Buffy. Before anyone could speak however she carried on ranting.

 

“Only it wasn’t wrong was it? Giles made out the councils the font of all supernatural knowledge, the same council that put so much stock in souls, only to find out said souls were made by the evilest beings in all existence. Only to find out slayers don’t even have human souls ourselves, only to find out the ‘soulless demons & vampires’ aren’t even soulless. Only to be told you need a soul to feel emotions, and to find out souls were made to STOP emotions not give them. I saw Bedlam’s finger he’s married, the first soulless being we’ve ever come across is married.”

 

Everyone was still listening to her rant. They all realised how little they actually know of the supernatural world. Buffy continues again.

 

“I finally found out my attraction to Spike’s normal not wrong, my slayer wouldn’t be happy with a human, and it’s illegal for me to date one, you have no idea how happy hearing that’s made me. You can’t push me to have normal because I already have it, and Sirrus was right about that you’re not slayers, so who are you to tell us how to live? I now know that Spike’s my soulmate, and Sirrus was right about the fact when I saw him I thought he was the most gorgeous guy I’d ever seen. I even forgot Angel existed when I saw Spike so that should have made me realise the truth, but again I let the soul hold sway over me because you all told me it matters, I mean the one version of Angel who can actually love is Angelus, and he’s not even remotely interested in me romantically, so what’s that tell you? I know one thing for sure I can date who I like and you can’t say a thing about it.” She ended her rant by walking over to Spike grabbing him by the duster and smashing her lips to his.

 

While everyone looked understanding & amused Angel did not, he had a problem he couldn’t help but voice.

 

“You can’t be with Spike Buffy.” His voice was full of stubbornness

 

Buffy broke away from Spike and turned to face Angel with a raised eyebrow.

 

“Why not Angel? We know it’s illegal for slayers to date humans, we know Spike’s my soulmate and I’d never be happy in any relationship that’s not with him. We know because of your actions as a human your soul turned dark, so you don’t love me, because you can’t love at all. So what do you expect me to do? Go against D.U.S.T. law and get arrested? If I want kids the only person who can give them me is Spike, I read between the lines Angel, humans can’t get slayers pregnant. They never said vampires couldn’t.”

 

Everyone was speechless at that and Spike’s eyes widened with amazement. ‘I might be able to have kids with Buffy. BLOODY HELL!!! I never thought that I’d have the chance after becoming a vampire. This Is bloody brilliant, even if we can’t have kids normally I’m sure D.U.S.T. have something that would help.’

 

Angel had a hurt expression on his face, “But it’s Spike!” He whined.

 

Angelus interrupts, “Pretty sure that’s the point soul boy.” He said sarcastically.

 

Before Angel can respond Gunn leans on something that opens the nearby wall, which shows a screen with what’s happening in London on it. They all turn to watch.

 

******

 

City Centre, London, England

 

The four of them teleported in on the roof of a nearby building, the tornado & lightning was wreaking havoc on the city, as soon as a nearby police officer spots them he ordered the other police to evacuate the area.

 

“We have to stop it before it destroys the city.” Sirrus commands, the other three nod.

 

They all split off in different directions, and like a proximity spell was put on the tornado, a giant demon with four horns and big sharp teeth steps out the tornado.

 

“Well, looks like there was a trap after all, Ark? you didn’t tell me you had a twin.” Hornet shouted over the noise.

 

“Ha ha so funny, how’s about you stop looking for my likeness in everything we fight, and just fight it.” Arkillius shouted back.

 

Sirrus rolls his eyes and begins to talk telepathically. “How’s about you both stop acting like toddlers and fight it. Bedlam? You concentrate on the tornado. We’ll deal with the demon behemoth.”

 

They all nod and split again, Bedlam towards the tornado, the other three towards the behemoth.

 

Arkillius, Sirrus & Hornet approach the behemoths feet. Which it used to kick them into a nearby building.

 

“Hornet you muppet, do something.” Arkillius commands.

 

“Oh shut up you tart, I’m thinking.”

 

“Think faster you great tosser.”

 

“I’ve got it! Prepare yourself pillock, it’s gonna be a bumpy ride.”

 

“What you.....Hey!...Oh bollocks." Hornet walks over grabs Arkillius by the back of his jacket & pants, then with a spin launches him at the behemoths head.

 

“Don’t you think that might have been a bit much?” Sirrus asks with a sigh.

 

Hornet shrugs, “Probably, but you tell me it’s still going to be standing, especially after a punch from Ark at full force?”

 

“You’re right it’s not, but do you two have to act like such kids? Thank god I left the other two back at headquarters. I couldn’t be done with all four of you together.”

 

“I should take offence, but I know full well you find us four entertaining.”

 

Sirrus just sighs causing Hornet to smirk, they watched as Arkillius punches the behemoth in the face making it topple over. It crashes to the floor with Arkillius still latched on to it. At the same time Bedlam seems to have stopped the storm.

 

“Storms done with, I’m coming to help." Bedlam informs them.

 

“Good, I’ve just made the big bastard eat concrete." Arkillius adds on.

 

“Bedlam see if you can send it home, it didn’t ask for this.” Sirrus commands.

 

“Understood give me a minute.”

 

“OK, let us know when you manage it.”

 

“I need your three’s help, stopping the storm took some power.”

 

They went over to him and put their hands on his shoulders, with the power boost they opened a portal and the behemoth went through it. After the portal closes they look at each other.

 

“Hornet call headquarters, we need to wipe the civilians memories of what they seen, just let them think a normal tornado hit. I know that’s something Britain doesn’t usually deal with, but there’s a first time for everything.” Sirrus instructed.

 

Hornet nods, “With the denial factor they’ll believe it anyway.” He gets out a his phone and walks away.

 

“it shouldn’t take long, we built a Stronghold near this multiverse for this exact reason.” Bedlam comments.

 

Not long after a portal opened and a D.U.S.T. Void ship flew through, it had a big device hanging from it, which began to light up. A flash that reached all way across London came from the machine, the void ship exited back through the portal and Bedlam teleported them out of London.

 

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

They all looked shocked as the screen turned off, Ethan broke the silence.

 

“Well, it appears Salazar left a trap for them.”

 

“Yeah, he knew they’d go and help the people in London, the problem is what did he need them gone for?” Clem asked worriedly.

 

“I don’t know, but he can’t have done anything serious. This place seems to monitor his movements, if he tried anything we would have known.” Giles responds.

 

******

 

Magic Box, Sunnydale, California

 

Salazar was sitting at the table with his feet up as his minions searched the shelves, they were looking for the magical ingredients for the ritual.

 

“Well? Have you bloody found them yet?” Salazar asked irritated.

 

“Some of them Master, we’re not sure if this place holds everything we need.” Cactus responds.

 

“Fuck it take the sodding lot, Sirrus will be back soon, that behemoth I’ve let loose won’t be enough to keep them busy for long.”

 

They nodded and just started filling the bags, they eventually emptied the shelves and more minions were carrying stuff out the basement. They loaded the SUVs and drove off.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

Bedlam teleported in the room with the others, everyone looked at them in amazement, except Angel who still looked like he’d had his favourite toy taken away. Hornet gets irritated at his look.

 

“What the bloody hells up with captain cryptic?”

 

“Nothing much chief, he’s just brooding because Buffy kissed Spike.” Lawson responds.

 

The four of them looked at Buffy & Spike, she blushes as she remembers practically attacking Spike out of nowhere, and he has a sappy grin on his face at the reminder of the kiss.

 

Sirrus rolls his eyes, Arkillius & Bedlam looked amused, and Hornet smirks and says. “Its about bloody time mate.”

 

Gunn gets the conversation back on track, “We found a TV in the wall, we seen that Salazar set a trap for you. What we don’t understand is why? He had to want you gone for a reason.”

 

Sirrus looked thoughtful, “You’re right he did, Bedlam see if anything’s happened while we’ve been gone.”

 

He nods and does something to the screen, it shows Salazar and his minions in the magic box emptying the shelves & basement.

 

Anya looked outraged, “Giles! He’s stealing our stock, we need that for paying customers.”

 

Giles was cleaning his glasses, “I see that Anya, what I’m struggling to understand is the spell that Bedlam did should have prevented him gaining entry to the shop.”

 

Bedlam looked confused, “It should have, wait a minute I’ll go check.” He teleports out the room, after a couple of minutes teleports back in Looking pissed.

 

“That sneaky little bastard, he knew we’d do that spell!”

 

“Why didn’t it work?” Buffy asked confused.

 

“It did that’s the sodding problem, he smeared his blood on the side of the counter.”

 

Giles looks curious, “What’s his blood being left in the shop have to do with this?”

 

Sirrus answers him, “Everything, with his blood inside the shop it negates the spell for him, only because its a public building mind you. The only reason it kicked him out when activated was because the owner was still inside, with you not being in there nothing was stopping him from entering the shop. He probably put a tiny bit of his own blood on his minions to give them access as well.”

 

Cordelia huffs, “So what you’re saying is he outsmarted us again?”

 

“Yeah that’s exactly what I’m saying.”

 

“How the hell are we supposed to beat this guy with him always being one step ahead of us?” Doyle asked annoyed.

 

“We’ll manage, we always do.”

 

“That doesn’t exactly fill me with confidence.” Faith said sarcastically, which in turn pissed Hornet off.

 

“I don’t know what you’re all bitching about, we told you he’s smart, we told you he’s dangerous, we told you he won’t be easy to beat. It’s not our fault you mongs won’t let that sink in your fucking craniums, the enemies you’re used to facing might be massive retards, and flash their plans with neon lights for you to keep up. But Salazar’s not & won’t do that, it’s your own bloody faults he’s here to begin with, believing bullshit that all humans are good.” He scoffs, “What bollocks, Faith was in prison, Angel was a dick as a human making his soul go dark, Cordelia thought she was better than everyone else because she had money. Buffy used to think she was the dogs bollocks because she was popular, Willow’s a magic junkie with delusions of grandeur, Riley cut things open for shits & giggles, Xander lied about remembering an attempted rape because he still wants the victim to open her legs for him, Giles & Ethan practiced dark magic together when they were younger. Darla got syphilis from sleeping around the first time she was human and Lindsey used to work for Wolfram & Hart. With people like this around you I have to ask, how stupid are you for believing that?”

 

Most of them including Willow had the decency to look ashamed, the only one’s that didn’t are the ones Hornet didn’t mention, well except Xander & Riley who weren’t here.

 

“You’re right I’m sorry, I guess I’m still in the mind-set of our enemies telling us their plans.” Faith apologised.

 

Andrew speaks up, “That’s something I don’t understand, most enemies that are powerful brag about their plans, thinking no one can stop them. Salazar’s the most powerful one we’ve come across, so why isn’t he bragging?”

 

Hornet snorts, “Salazar isn’t someone to believe that bollocks, he never brags unless he’s 100% certain he’ll succeed. The amount of times that fuckers tricked us shows his knowledge, I’ll tell you again this world will never be the same once he’s beaten.”

 

They all nodded and let that sink in, then Jonathan asks him a question.

 

“Hornet? Not like some reasons aren’t obvious, but why do you hate Angel so much? You seem to get angrier when talking about him, or to him.”

 

Everyone who didn’t know was wondering that themselves, especially Angel, Hornet decides to tell them.

 

He glares at Angel as he answers, “Where do I sodding begin? We met an Angel in an alternate reality, something big was going down there, but instead of being straight up with us he had to be a massive bellend and be cryptic. Because the ego driven wanker likes to be the center of attention, hundreds of people died and he still acted like it wasn’t his fault. Every other Angel we’ve met was the same, thinking they were gods gift manipulating the people round him so they don’t ask questions. I mean come off it, how many of you can say he doesn’t make you feel like a child, always thinking he knows better than you? He did that cryptic shit with Buffy, just so she didn’t lose interest, kept important information back making her search him out to get it.”

 

Everyone looked at Angel like they didn’t know him, he obviously tried to defend himself.

 

“I didn’t do what that Angel did, its not my fault.”

 

“How’s about the stuff you did do? Have you told them about your souled past? Let’s start with something Buffy does know, you wouldn’t tell her about Drusilla because she wasn’t mature enough. Yet not long after you took her virginity, how about the time you lied about her not being able to read your mind, you told her it was because you were dead, not that you learnt to block your thoughts to keep Drusilla out your head. They’ve obviously learnt about Lawson, but do they know you stayed with Spike, Darla & Drusilla for two years after the soul? Do they know about the mugging victim in the diner you fed from? Do they know the demon that you had your team banish from the hotel, killed all the occupants because you told it too? Dose Buffy know about the day you had taken back?”

 

His eyes widened with shock about the last one, everyone else was looking a little sick at what they’ve learned. Then Buffy asks the question.

 

“Angel What’s he talking about? What day did you have taken back?” Her voice was full of suspicion.

 

“Its nothing you need to know about.” His voice told everyone differently.

 

Hornet looks at him in disgust, “I’d say it is, the fact you remember and she doesn’t is almost on the level of rape. But then that’s what you’re best at isn’t it? Can you tell me one time you’ve actually had consensual sex? And Buffy didn’t count she couldn’t legally give consent, so within human law & D.U.S.T. law it was statutory rape.”

 

Buffy looked very ill at the thought, “Angel you’d better tell me what he’s talking about.” She said through clenched teeth.

 

“Its nothing Buffy.” His voice was full of stubbornness.

 

“Bollocks it’s nothing Peaches, you better tell my girl what she wants to know.” Spike snapped angrily.

 

Buffy felt herself warm at being called his girl. But Angel of course didn’t like it.

 

“She’s not your girl!” he snarled.

 

“Yes I am, its been made pretty clear I’m not yours Angel, you have to let go of your obsession and move on.”

 

Spike looked awed at her words, Angel though looked hurt. “How can you say that Buffy? I love you.”

 

Bedlam interrupts, “Looks like you’re in denial yourself, we already told you that you can’t love due to the dark soul, don’t make us have to remove you from her life completely.”

 

“What’s that supposed to mean?!” he snaps.

 

Bedlam gets right up in his face, “That means we’ll remove all memories of her from your head, it will be like you never met her. So don’t tempt us.”

 

Angel looked panicked, “No! You can’t do that she’s mine, she’s my reward the powers gave her to me!”

 

Everyone except D.U.S.T. gaped at his words, Bedlam just raises an eyebrow.

 

“Now what in that sentence made you believe you love her? You’re treating her like a possession, not someone you love, and while we’re on the subject the powers that be have no authority over us. In fact, WHISTLER!!!”

 

Whistler teleported in the room, and he Immediately looked panicked at the sight of D.U.S.T.

 

“You called?” He asked nervously.

 

“Yes I bloody well did, what the fuck are the powers thinking? Picking someone with a dark soul as a champion?”

 

“We didn’t know he had one until recently.”

 

“Its painfully obvious he does, but why’s he under some delusion that you promised him the slayer?”

 

“We didn’t. I said he could earn his redemption if he helped her, we always knew Spike would eventually turn up, he’s her real champion.”

 

Buffy, Spike & Angel looked speechless at the news, everyone else looked shocked, except the D.U.S.T. members who looked like it was obvious. Before anyone could speak though Bedlam spoke.

 

“You mean the redemption he won’t get because he won’t accept he did the crimes? And why are him and his team under some delusion the shanshu prophecy is about him?”

 

Wesley interrupt, “What do you mean? It mentions Angel by name.”

 

“No it doesn’t braindead, it mentions a ‘fallen angel’ which means ‘demon’ for those struggling to keep up. Meaning any vampire can get it because it says a vampire with a ‘Soul’ not ‘Human Soul’, and it doesn’t turn them human, it gives them life. Meaning they’ll be a ‘living vampire’ the closest thing to being a slayer without actually being one. Because no one who actually cares about fighting evil would want to be a normal human, especially not after being a vampire with the strength. That’s why Angel gave it up, and let’s say hypothetically that it was about Angel, he’s still going to have the curse & his dark soul, becoming human again won’t change that. So even as a human one moment of happiness, and the psychopaths loose.”

 

They all looked speechless at the news, but Buffy heard something she wanted an answer for.

 

“What do you mean he gave up being human?” She asked suspiciously.

 

“Oh that’s right, he still hasn’t told you yet, and he won’t so I’ll make it easier.”

 

Bedlam clicks his fingers and the memories from the day Angel took back were returned. Angel realising what’s just happened was outraged.

 

“Noooo! She wasn’t supposed to remember.” He charges Bedlam in his rage.

 

Bedlam saw it coming though and headbutts him, then sweeps his legs out from under him, resulting in Angel crashing to the floor. He then uses his magic to keep him pinned.

 

Buffy after regaining her memories of that day had tears of anger & humiliation running down her face. She let’s Spike take her in his arms, where she proceeds to hide her face in the crook of his neck.

 

“Buffy what’s wrong honey?” Joyce asked worriedly.

 

She lifts her head from Spike’s neck, “Angel was human, after he stalked me on thanksgiving last year I went to L.A., we got attacked by a demon. We split up to search for it after it got away, he showed up later in the sun human, we slept together and spent the day In bed, then he went to the oracles and had the day turned back, the only person who remembers is him.”

 

Everyone looked angry at the news, then Angel spoke. “You were never meant to find out, once I have the shanshu we can be together, there’s no reason to be upset.”

 

Buffy extracts herself from Spike to kick a still floored Angel in the balls with all her strength, making him yell out in pain, “You Bastard! I’m upset because Bedlam was right, the fact you remember and I didn’t is like rape, I don’t care about you being human because unless you’ve forgot it’s illegal for me to date them. You’ve just been told the shineshoe isn’t yours, but you’re still under the delusion we can be together. You Don’t Love Me! You can’t it’s obsession, and I’m meant to be with Spike!”

 

Before Angel can respond Bedlam interrupts, “You’ve been told boy, the shanshu doesn’t belong to you, and even if it did you gave up your chance when you gave up being human. You’re fighting evil expecting a reward, that’s one of the reasons it’ll never be yours, and I can see all the gears turning in the rest of your heads. You’re all wondering how he managed to sleep with Buffy as a human with his curse still in place?” Some nodded, the one’s who hadn’t figured it out yet. “Like I told you before he never loved her, he didn’t get a moments happiness from sleeping with someone he loved because that’s impossible, he got it from taking her virginity. A pure and innocent warrior of good deflowered by him, that’s why he lost his soul.”

 

Joyce was outraged and copied Buffy’s earlier action, by kicking Angel in the balls.

 

“You Filthy Pervert! I can’t believe you’re supposed to be a champion, there’s nothing heroic about you.”

 

Hornet interrupts, “D.U.S.T. don’t consider him a champion, real champions don’t manipulate kids then fuck them.”

 

“I wish....I mean I’d rather the powers that be go by your thought process in the future.”

 

Sirrus steps towards Whistler, “Don’t worry they will, you see the mess picking him as a champion caused, By order of D.U.S.T. the powers that be are not allowed to pick any future champions, without us knowing about the choice and investigating the choice thoroughly, inform your bosses of this Whistler, that’ll be all.”

 

Whistler nods looking scared and teleports from the room, Sirrus continued after he was gone. “Bedlam follow him, make sure he tells them and find out what the hell they were thinking in the first place.”

 

Bedlam nods and teleports out after Whistler, Sirrus looks at Angel, “You’re from this moment on, not allowed alone with Buffy until you come out of denial, am I making myself clear?”

 

Angel looked angry, “I can be alone with Buffy if I want, you can’t stop me.”

 

“Like hell we can’t you bloody poofter.” Spike snapped angrily.

 

“You need to back off Peaches, we’ll not let you near her.” Lawson adds on.

 

“You and what army, I mean she’s only with Spike because she can’t be with me.” He sneered.

 

Everyone looked at him like he was insane, but Angelus crouches down near his head.

 

“Listen here Brood Boy, I’m not allowing you near her either.”

 

Angel glares at Angelus but stays silent, Faith breaks the silence. “What’s up with him? I know he’s got an ego but this is insane.”

 

“I think it’s because he’s not in charge.” Kate responds.

 

Hornet jumps in, “Yeah that’s the problem, Angel likes to be the one in charge, he lets that champion bollocks make him think he’s better than you, and with us being here and being someone even the PTB listens too. Well he doesn’t like it, It’s finally sunk in that we’re in charge and he’s lashing out like a spoiled brat. He finally figured out we aren’t someone he can subtly manipulate into doing what he wants. Like the fact he never wanted Buffy to actually move on, he told her to strive for a normal life but he always wanted her pining after him. He wanted her obsessed with him just like Drusilla is, always knowing when he showed up she’d drop everything for him, he’s still this world’s Angelus, the only difference is his victims are still alive when he’s through with them. I mean Buffy should know she is one.” He turns to her, “The main reason he never tried CPR on you when you drowned, is because you didn’t fall for him the second you laid eyes on him. That and he wouldn’t have been able to stop himself fucking your corpse.”

 

“Who told you? No one knew except me.” Angel asked angrily, making everyone else pale at the fact he admitted it.

 

“You did, well an alternate you but you all the same.”

 

“Well, I can’t believe I’m saying this, but thank god Xander was there.” Dawn added on.

 

Just as she finished talking Bedlam teleported back in the room with an Extremely intoxicated Riley & Xander.

 

Hornet side glances Xander, then responds to Dawn, “I wouldn’t thank him too much, the main reason he gave her CPR was so she’d date him, thinking if he saved her life she’d be filled with gratitude and fall in his bed.”

 

Xander looked shocked, “WHO told you that?” He asked drunkenly.

 

He sighs, “I’ve met alternate versions of you, in one reality Spike arrived in Sunnydale earlier, Drusilla dusted in Prague in this one. Buffy had the hot’s for Spike in that world, not Angel thank Christ. After you did CPR on her and she got outside, she practically sucked Spike’s face off with a kiss, something you obviously didn’t appreciate, as you said and I quote ‘I didn’t save you to suck face with the evil dead, you’re supposed to be with me Buffy.’ You practically sobbed when we told you slayers can’t date humans.”

 

Buffy interrupts, “I can’t believe it, I should have guessed that was the reason, but on the subject of me not being able to date humans, can Spike get me pregnant?” she asked hopefully.

 

“Yeah after you’ve both mated, but if you want a kid before that we have special pills that can make vampires fish’s swim again.”

 

“Cool.” Buffy responds ecstatic.

 

Sirrus interrupts, “OK now that’s sorted, Bedlam where did you find these two?”

 

“Well after I’d finished with the PTB they informed me about these two both smashed out their faces, Finn was looking for Salazar, fuck knows why, and Harris was looking for the means to do a love spell on Buffy.”

 

Everyone gasped at Xander’s actions, but Sirrus just sighed, “OK Why’s it look like they both went ten rounds with Anthony Joshua?” This made everyone notice they were both bruised and bleeding.

 

“Who’s Anthony Joshua?” Willow asked confused.

 

He waves his hand dismissively, “Future famous British boxer.”

 

“Well after I found Finn I teleported us to the magic box, Harris wasn’t aware that Salazar cleared the place out. He was searching for spell Ingredients for a love spell so Buffy would finally love him, well Finn heard this and hit him, they basically started battering each other in the middle of the shop, and no I didn’t stop them, I don’t know if you’ve seen two drunks fight, but it’s funny as fuck. Plus they’re massive dickheads.”

 

Arkillius chuckles, “Sorry I missed it.”

 

“Too fucking right, I missed it as well.” Hornet grumbled.

 

“Yes we’ve established they’re massive morons, Bedlam give everyone something to protect them from magic, we have enough problems with Salazar never mind dealing with idiots like Harris. How the fuck you lot have got this far amazes me, you’re all to busy ripping each other apart, let alone fighting the enemy, future investment Summers, find better friends. Or at least someone who can handle the knowledge of the supernatural without turning into a wanker.” Sirrus added on, the others realised when they’re really angry they called everyone by their surnames.

 

Buffy nodded, “I didn’t realise he was this bad, its like I never knew him.”

 

Hornet scoffs, “That’s because you never actually did, even when he did things any sane person would think of as questionable, you fuckers ignored it and swept it under the sodding rug, Just so you didn’t have to acknowledge it. Then you have the audacity to bitch and moan like it came out the fucking blue, I mean if Buffy bothered to crack open a fucking book for five minutes, she would have known Harris & Giles were full of shit about the hyena incident. But instead of her doing her fucking job and researching the shit she’s supposed to fight, she was too busy pining after some creep that kept popping out the sodding shadows. I have to ask before we turned up did you ever have a thought of your own? Or were you to busy doing whatever the fuck everyone else wanted? You’re supposed to be a slayer for fuck sake not a pussy, it’s good you’ve actually grown up though, because if you still followed their orders and treated Spike like shit, let’s just say I’d have had a field day kicking your fucking teeth in. Show you how it feels when we hit back, yeah I’m under no delusion that you didn’t hit Spike when he was chipped knowing he couldn’t hit back. Talk about being brave, I bet you had the enemies shitting themselves with fear, getting your enjoyment out of battering defenceless creatures. Come to think of it no sodding wonder you never noticed that Harris is a dick, you’re both bullies.” He was pacing angrily at the end of his rant.

 

Everyone who ever treated Spike badly looked ashamed, Except Angel, Xander & Riley of course, all having their own reasons for disliking him. It just so happens all their reasons have to do with Buffy, But speaking of Buffy, she openly started sobbing during Hornet’s rant, and Is now currently clinging to Spike like her life depended on it.

 

“I’m so sorry Spike! Please forgive me! I didn’t want to treat you badly.....but everyone would have constantly asked questions if I didn’t......they never left me alone, I had to think like they did or it was wrong...and Hornet’s right I should have noticed earlier that Xander’s not the nice guy he pretends to be. I should have researched after the hyena thing, but I never thought Giles would lie to me.”

 

Spike tightly wraps his arms round Buffy, “It’s OK sweetheart I forgive you, you know I do, I understand you didn’t want everyone complaining at you, especially over things they knew nothing about. D.U.S.T. proven what they thought they knew was wrong.”

 

Hornet now that his anger drained away felt like a right wanker for making her cry.

 

“I’m sorry Buffy, I never meant to hurt your feelings, it’s just when my anger rises I lash out, it doesn’t matter who made it rise.”

 

“It’s OK, it’s not like all the stuff you said wasn’t true, but even the truth can hurt people’s feelings even if they need to hear it, and Spike told us about your anger issues before you came. It’s not like I thought you were called Hornet because you’re friendly.”

 

He laughs, “No I definitely didn’t earn it from that. I’m still sorry though, and I can’t promise to control my mouth in the future, because we all know it’ll be a lie.”

 

She laughs while wiping her tears away, “Its OK, and no I don’t expect you to, we all need to hear the truth in the future no matter how much it might hurt.”

 

He nods and Sirrus asks Bedlam something after he finished with the protection charms.

 

“So what did the powers say?”

 

“They basically said it was Whistler’s fault, when they told him to get a champion who could and I quote ‘Love the slayer with his entire being’ He was one of those retards who thought you needed a soul to love, and he apparently didn’t know before today that all vampires have the bloody things anyway, so he basically thought they meant Angel, when they meant Spike from the start.”

 

Everyone looked dumbfounded at the news, except Angel, Riley & Xander, who felt more jealous & hurt than anything for different reasons. But Buffy felt anger more than anything.

 

“So what you’re saying is I was supposed to have Spike from the start and Whistler messed up?”

 

“Yeah that about sums it up.”

 

“That idiot! I could have been with the guy I wanted from the beginning, but I had to put up with Angel & evil Angelus.”

 

“If you met Spike from the start you wouldn’t have been with me Buffy.” Riley said hurt clear in his voice.

 

She rolls her eyes, “Like that’s much of a sacrifice Riley, I shouldn’t have been with you to begin with, you’re human it’s illegal remember?”

 

“Not to mention he’s shit in bed.” Faith adds on, everyone looks at her and she shrugs.

 

In his drunken state Riley looked more hurt than before, everyone’s figuring out he’s extremely sensitive when drunk.

 

“I’m not bad in bed.” He sounds close to tears.

 

“Sorry to tell you Riley but you are, I obviously didn’t say anything before so I wouldn’t hurt your feelings.” Buffy responded.

 

“I don’t get how slayers think its possible for any human to be good in bed? Especially with your strength, humans would always leave you feeling unsatisfied.” Anya said matter-of-factly.

 

“Wait, Hornet’s human & his wife’s a slayer, so that means he leaves her unsatisfied.” Riley said like it made him feel better.

 

Hornet rolls his eyes, “I’ve already told you, you thick cunt, I’m a mutant which means I’m stronger than you, and I always leave my wife a babbling and incoherent mess thank you very much.”

 

“How?” Riley asks upset again.

 

“It helps knowing how to please a woman, which means more than laying on top of them and grunting for a couple of minutes.”

 

Sirrus sighs, “Hornet, stop poking fun at the obvious sensitive drunk, I know he started it but you shouldn’t be poking fun at someone for not being able to give anyone an orgasm.”

 

Hornet, Arkillius, Bedlam, Spike, Lawson, Angelus, Lindsey and Faith burst out laughing at that, some others hid their amusement well but it was plainly obvious they were amused. Sirrus went back over what he said and sighed again.

 

“If I tell you I didn’t mean it to sound like that none of you are going to believe me are you?”

 

“Obviously not.” Hornet responds still laughing. Which in turn makes everyone else laugh. Except Riley, Angel & Xander. Riley because he’s upset, Angel because he’s brooding about Buffy, and Xander because he’s unconscious.

 

“Typical I become a comedian when I don’t mean to.”

 

******

 

Unknown Location, Sunnydale, California

 

Glory was looking at all the followers she’d gathered, she wasn’t happy that Salazar killed most of her minions with his blowing up her apartment. She address the them.

 

“Right listen up, Salazar thinks he’s won but were not through yet. It’s time to end this after tonight only one of us will be left standing, and that’s obviously me.”

 

Her followers cheered.

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

Hanson enters the throne room and heads straight to Salazar.

 

“Master Salazar? I’ve received word that Glory’s been gathering followers.”

 

“So she’s ready? Good, soon there won’t be anyone else looking for the key. This ends tonight.”

 

His minions cheered.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

They were finally calming down from their laughter, Then Willow got serious and asked Bedlam a question.

 

“Bedlam? Can you train me in magic? I felt Salazar’s power yesterday and I didn’t like it. You’re right he’s too powerful he terrified me, the lightning he cast I could feel pure evil coming from it, I’ve never felt anything like it.” She shivered as she remembered the feeling.

 

He nods, “Yeah I can help, you’ll still need to go to a coven after this is over though, it will help train you even better. There’s a special coven we know about, I think it’ll do you some good, Tara should go with you the stuff you could learn would blow your minds.”

 

“I understand and thank you.” Willow said with a smile.

 

“I’d l-like to l-l-learn more as well.” Tara said happy about the prospect of learning about magic from other multiverse’s.

 

“Then it’s settled, I’ll train you both in the ways of the Wicharei until we’ve dealt with Salazar. But be warned, it won’t be official as the Wicharei are technically a species not just magical people like you.”

 

Ethan looks intrigued, “What do you mean by a species?”

 

“The easiest way for you to understand is to think of us like slayers but we deal with magical users, mostly. We're stronger than a human like a slayer, but our magic also works differently as well, it course’s through our veins at such strength that if we don’t use it, it physically begins to hurt us. Because of this we can’t become addicted to magic making us the best witch hunters, also add on the fact that the only way for other spells to affect us, is for the being casting said spell to be the same power level as us or stronger. So most witches spells bounce right off without leaving a mark, we can also see mystical anomalies, like I did with Joyce’s tumour, Darla’s syphilis and Dawn’s specialness, we can also see active spells and know who cast them. We can see your magical strength, Signatures & abilities just by looking at you, I can do amazing spells the reason I needed help with the one yesterday, is because unlike Salazar we need time to adjust to being in a different multiverse. Couple more days I’ll be at full strength.” He didn’t mention Dawn being the key because Riley was listening.

 

Everyone except from Hornet, Arkillius, Sirrus, Lawson, Spike, Angelus & Anya, were looking at him with wide eyed shock.

 

Buffy looks amazed, “Wow, talk about overkill, too bad slayers don’t have skills like that.”

 

“It’s not really overkill, you have to remember Wicharei aren’t from your multiverse, in ours the magically knowledgeable ones are a lot stronger than here, and you’ll be amazed at what slayers can do.”

 

Buffy & Faith looked shocked, “What do you mean? I’m a slayer, I know I don’t have abilities like that.” Buffy said confused.

 

“Correction, you’re a slayer that was trying to be human, with you never actually accepting or listening to your slayer side you have no Idea what you can do. The one thing that I never understood about you, is i met an alternate version of you who complained she wanted a normal life, then she went through the Cruciamentum, effectively got turned normal for awhile, then complained her strength was gone. It was completely ridiculous, I even got a headache at the irony.”

 

Buffy’s eyes widened as she thought about it. ‘He’s right, I never accepted I was the slayer so I don’t know my own abilities, and the thing about the Cruciamentum, right again I constantly complained about being the slayer, then when I lost my powers and was actually normal I hated it.’

 

Faith interrupts, “What about me? I wasn’t trying to be normal, I dig being a hot chick with super powers.”

 

“You subconsciously never actually accepted it, or you wouldn’t have been having sex with humans, I can promise you if you were actively listening to your slayer, you would have never and I mean never, let a normal human touch you sexually, that disgusts your slayer side I promise. How about a little test? Both of you close your eyes, relax and let your slayer side out. Now I want you to think about having sex with a human and tell me how your slayer reacts.”

 

Buffy & Faith did as they were asked, within a couple of minutes they opened their eyes wide with a gasp.

 

Buffy spoke first, “You were right, my slayers disgusted with the thought of sleeping with humans, I thought about Spike afterwards and it calmed down. It seemed to really like that idea.” She adds with a deep blush. Spike looks at her with a goofy grin.

 

“Same here, except with Lawson.” She smiles at Lawson and he smiled back.

 

“Yeah that’s normal, the main reason most slayers go for vampires, is because a vampires human enough for the girl, but monster enough for the slayer. That’s where the saying slayers need a bit of monster in their man comes from, I even know of slayers that were attracted to members of The Serpent Family.”

 

“What?” Buffy & Faith asked shocked.

 

“Yeah, The Serpent Family found a way to permanently enhance their strength, meaning they’re stronger than a normal human, so some of the slayers even though both sides of them hated the Serpents found them attractive. Mainly because they fit the criteria, something stronger than a human, and could defend themselves.”

 

“What do the slayers dislike about humans to such an extent?” Giles asked curiously.

 

“Basically slayers don’t believe humans are worthy enough for them, they like the perfect partner someone who’s strong, powerful, can defend themselves and are in someway dangerous. The obvious perfect partners are mainly vampires, the only other perfect partners for them would be mutants like me, Wicharei like Bedlam, an Unsintebus like Sirrus, or male slayers and with them not existing in this reality, and not really liking each other that doesn’t happen often.”

 

“Wait! Sirrus is an Unsintebus?” Lorne exclaims in shock.

 

“What’s an Unsintebus?” Fred asked confused.

 

“Only a legendary demon that can’t be evil sugarplum, I thought they were extinct.”

 

“We pretty much are, I was born as part of a prophecy to stop a demon called Verrocarth, only he went back in time to stop the creation of the Unsintebus, he succeeded. Me and my brother were the only two left in all existence, and that’s only because The Masters of Good stopped us from disappearing as well.” Sirrus informs them.

 

Buffy look shocked, “You’re entire species? Oh My God!”

 

Giles looked sympathetic, “How come this Verrocarth didn’t try again?”

 

“He got himself trapped in a time anomaly, he’s still there.”

 

“What type of demon is he?” Gunn asked.

 

“A Sintebus, the evil version of my species, the first demon species created by The Masters of Evil. Unsintebus were created by The Masters of Good, to stop them.”

 

“I’m sorry for your loss.” Giles said sincerely.

 

“Nothing to worry about, it happened so long ago it’s ancient news.” Everyone could tell he didn’t like talking about it.

 

“OK, back to what Hornet said earlier, about male & female slayers not being together often, what did he mean by that?”

 

“In an alternate reality Buffy & Spike are both slayers.” Arkillius answers.

 

“Me? A slayer?” Spike asked shocked.

 

“Yeah, you’re one of the famous Pratt brothers, or their official name The Brothers Pratt. A play on The Brothers Grimm.”

 

“Brothers?” Spike asked slightly hopeful, which seem to confuse most people in the room.

 

“Yeah, William Pratt, Wallace Pratt & Winston Pratt. The three of you are the most famous slayers out that reality. You’ve all been active since the 1880s, it came as a shock to everyone, three slayers activated at the same time. It was mostly because you were monster hunters before being called.”

 

“I had brothers called Wallace & Winston, but they disappeared round about the time I was turned.” Spike said sadly.

 

Sirrus, Hornet, Bedlam & Arkillius looked shocked at that. “You mean you don’t know?” Hornet asked baffled.

 

“Know what?” He sounded confused.

 

“Spike mate, Wallace & Winston were both turned into vampires like you, they’re still around.”

 

“WHAT?” Spike stumbles due to the shock, Buffy grabs him to stop him falling.

 

“Yeah, we’ve met them before, they thought you disappeared as well. We thought that’s why you were killing slayers, to follow in their footsteps, being as they’ve killed 5 slayers each.”

 

Everyone was speechless at that, until Darla spoke, “Spike’s older brothers were turned into vampires? And they’ve killed 10 slayers between them?” Her voice was full of shock.

 

“Are you telling me you didn’t know? You remember those two vampires that made Angelus flee London? That was them.”

 

“WHAT?” Angel asked shocked, “The two vampires that nearly dusted me were Spike’s brothers?”

 

“You’re telling me, two fledglings nearly dusted Angelus?” Giles asked in disbelief.

 

“They work amazing together, and like Spike didn’t suffer from blood lust when they awoke, and also like him they were more skilled than normal fledges.”

 

Riley looked befuddled, “You’re telling me Spike has two brothers who are vampires, and they’re essentially more dangerous than him?”

 

“Pretty much yeah.”

 

No one seemed to notice that Xander woke up awhile ago. “Oh My God! So all that time Spike was chipped, he had brothers that would have got revenge on us for hurting him?”

 

“Well not just his brothers their slayer mates as well.”

 

“Spike’s brothers have mated with slayers?” Wesley asked amazed.

 

“Yes.” Hornet simply responds, it was clear he was getting annoyed at the questions.

 

“This is extremely fascinating.”

 

“Why?” Buffy asked confused.

 

“Because don’t you see Buffy? This means there’s four active slayers.”

 

Everyone’s eyes widen at that, except Hornet, Bedlam, Arkillius & Sirrus, Because they already knew. Before anyone could speak though the alarm sounded. Drawing everyone’s attention to the screen, what they saw shocked them all.

 

On the screen it showed Salazar and his minions in a field, facing Glory and her followers stood at the other side of the field. They were talking so long they didn’t realise it got dark, a glance at the clock told them it was 6pm.

 

“What’s happening? Buffy asked worriedly.

 

“Salazar & Glory’s battle, one of them isn’t leaving that field alive.” Sirrus responds.

 

Everyone watches the screen intently as the battle begins.

Notes:

The Watchers Councils gone, some of Sirrus's history is revealed, Buffy & Spike are officially dating, Angel's dreams of the shanshu have been shattered, and Spike’s found out his brothers were turned. The Confrontation between Salazar & Glory comes in the next chapter, it’s already finished so you don't have to wait long.

Like the other Chapters this was all done by me, let me know what you think.

Chapter 7: Chapter 7 - A Hell-Gods Ego

Notes:

Another shorter chapter.

The first half of this chapter switches between two scenes, that's the reason some locations aren't marked.

One enemy leaves the battle, while another enters.

Characters, Genres & Warnings updated with this chapter.

The chapter end notes will explain the Gernre & Warning update.

Random Field, Sunnydale, California

 

Salazar & Glory approached each other with their minions in toe, they stopped far enough apart to talk without shouting.

 

“Hell whore, we finally meet face to face.”

 

“Don’t call me a whore you filthy worm, I’m a god.”

 

“You’re a hell-god you silly cow, that’s the lowest god tier there is.”

 

“HOW DARE YOU?!! You’re nothing but a disgusting human. Who’s looking for MY key, I won’t let you get it first.”

 

“Listen closely you deaf bitch, it’s not your key, you can’t seem to find your own braincells, never mind the sodding key.” He sighs, “This is getting us nowhere, let’s finish this.”

 

“I’m going to crush you.”

 

They charge at each other minions not far behind, the armies collide, hundreds wielding weapons, and the battle is on. Bodies are dropping left & right, and in the middle of the carnage is Salazar & Glory trading blows.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

They were all watching the screen, most of them shocked at what they were seeing. Even though it’s dark out they could see the battle perfectly.

 

“I’ve never seen anything like it.” Buffy says shocked.

 

“Nor have I, this is truly a first for me.” Giles responds just as shocked.

 

“Why aren’t they using the guns from the army base?” Clem asked curiously.

 

“Because Salazar doesn’t see Glory as a big enough threat to use them.” Hornet responds.

 

******

 

Salazar throws a fireball at Glory with enough force to knock her flying, he then makes a chain materialise out of thin air, then throws one end making it wrap round a still airborne Glory’s ankle, with a tug he pulls her back towards him. When she reaches him he punches her full strength in the face, which causes her to slam to the ground.

 

Glory stands up punches Salazar multiple times in return, with one last punch at full strength she forced him back with some force.

 

Salazar digs his ankles in the ground, ripping up dirt & grass as he was forced back, after at least ten feet he stopped moving, he looks a Glory with a smirk. “That the best you got hell bitch?”

 

Glory’s eyes widen at the fact he’s still standing, then she charges him in anger.

 

As she approaches him he flips over her head and kicks her in the back, all while still in mid-air, he lands after the kick.

 

******

 

“Wow, I gotta say dude, that thing with the chain was tight.” Faith says impressed.

 

“He took a punch from Glory at full force, even I can’t do that.” Buffy adds on worried.

 

“I’m amazed he was still standing after a punch like that.” Doyle adds on.

 

“Sirrus mate, I know you said Salazar’s powerful but this is crazy.” Spike puts in.

 

“Believe me, you haven’t seen anything yet.” Sirrus said matter-of-factly.

 

******

 

Glory turns as he lands and backhands him, which makes him stumble. “You’re starting to get annoying.”

 

Salazar straightens up then uppercuts her, which makes her stumble in return. “Tough luck slag, I’m not going anywhere.”

 

She kicks him in the leg making him fall to one knee.

 

As she stands over him, he stands up with enough speed and force for the top of his head to connect with a resounding crack under her chin, he smirks at her.

 

Her head snaps back at the force, she then looks at him outraged, “Don’t smirk at me, why won’t you die?” She follows the question by grabbing him by the throat and squeezing.

 

He punches & elbows her in the face a couple of times, all the while laughing at her attempts.

 

She gets angry and throws him, he spins through the air then levitates himself back down to the ground, after he lands he makes roots come out the ground, and they wrapped around Glory’s ankles & wrists, before she can break free he turns into smoke and fly’s towards her. As he reaches her he turns back to his original form with a kick to her stomach, which makes the roots snap as he knocked her back.

 

She gets to her feet and charges him, she punches him knocking him back, then grabs his head and slams it against her uplifted knee, making him stumble again.

 

As he rights himself he attacks again only faster than before, the speed of the blows and the various different moves, proves to be too much for her, punches lead into tornado kicks within seconds of the last strike connecting. Uppercuts lead into headbutts while she’s lifted off the ground due to the force, backhands lead to spin kicks. The moves continue forcing her backwards.

 

******

 

“Damn, he’s just used that smoke travel thing to lead into a kick.” Gunn said shocked.

 

“I can’t believe it, not just the smoke thing, but he made roots come out the ground, that’s crazy enough.” Kate adds just as shocked.

 

“I’d say him levitating was bad enough, without adding other skills on top of it.” Ethan adds on.

 

“Oh My God! Look how fast he is.” Buffy said shocked.

 

“I’d officially say he was just messing with us yesterday, the amount of skill he’s portraying here says it all, it’s leagues above anything he’s shown us yet.” Wesley responds.

 

“Yeah Oxford, he was just fucking with us.” Spike said a bit irritated.

 

Angel, Riley & Xander looked at the screen with pure shock, finally realising what they’re up against.

 

******

 

Some of Glory’s minions came to her aid and effectively intervened, she then attacks in return, using her own speed she connects with every hit. She managed to force Salazar back with her own multi attacks, something he couldn’t stop, she obviously learns fast.

 

Salazar in his anger slaps his hands together once, making a shockwave that reached all sides of the field, knocking everyone & everything down to the ground, the trees nearby were even knocked to the ground at the force of the shockwave. When everyone on the battlefield looked at him he had green electricity coming off him, as it struck the ground it left scorch marks, he looked up and his eyes were pure black.

 

Glory stands eyes wide with shock at the power coming off him, her followers & his minions had similar looks.

 

He looks her dead in the eyes, “You ready to finish this hell bitch?” His voice comes out even deeper than usual, making everyone except Glory shiver in fear.

 

******

 

“Holy Crap!” Buffy exclaims, “Please, someone tell me what I’m seeing?”

 

“She pissed him off, it means she was actually hurting him.” Hornet responds.

 

“He’s even stronger than I first thought.” Ethan said worried.

 

“How are we going to stop him?” Dawn asked scared.

 

“It won’t be easy, with a denial demon making the wish, and Finn not coming out of denial we can’t send him back. We have other D.U.S.T. members searching for the demon responsible, in case we have no other choice but to take it out, but the little wankers gone into hiding.” Arkillius answers.

 

“Why’s it hiding?” Fred asked.

 

“Because the prick realised the wish it cast brought us here and it’s shitting itself.” Hornet responds.

 

Joyce huffs, “I don’t understand how Riley could still be in denial, especially after what’s happening right in front of us.”

 

“Because he’s an idiot, I mean if you can find anyone else out there who knows about the supernatural, that remotely trusts the normal government, I’ll give you fifty grand. What Buffy doesn’t understand is I guarantee, most other monster hunters that could have helped in the past, probably avoided you all because Buffy’s dumb enough to date one.”

 

“What? That’s common knowledge?” Buffy asked confused.

 

Jonathan looks at her in disbelief, “Seriously? Even in supernatural TV shows & movies they never trust the government, and they’re mostly created by people who don’t actually know its real. So yeah it’s common knowledge.”

 

“Are you serious?” Xander asked shocked.

 

Giles cleans his glasses, “The Watchers council never trusted the government.” Wesley nods along with his statement.

 

“It’s actually amazing you don’t know this, the only trusted government in the supernatural worlds D.U.S.T.” Anya says like it’s obvious.

 

“From all the information we’ve gathered in the past it’s actually true, about people who know demons are real don’t trust the government.” Riley cuts in.

 

Everyone looks at him in disbelief, then Angelus responds. “If someone as delusional as him knows that, the rest of you are lacking in the braincells department.”

 

Buffy rolls her eyes, “I didn’t know, I definitely won’t be making the same mistake again.” She looks at Spike, “Besides I’ve found something way better.”

 

Spike grinned, certain people in the room muttered ‘It’s about time.’ which caused Buffy to pout and Spike to chuckle, then he pulled her against him so her back was against his chest, which made her sigh happily. Which in turn made Riley, Xander & Angel jealous, they went to open their mouths, only to receive three simultaneous smacks on the back of the head, from Hornet, Arkillius & Bedlam. Followed by a simultaneous ‘Shut the fuck up.’ from the three of them.

 

The sounds from the screen brought their attention back to it, they all grew serious again as they watched on.

 

******

 

Salazar turned into smoke again, only this time it had green electricity running through it. He fly’s towards Glory at full speed and in smoke form surrounds her, with the electricity it electrocutes her, he turns back to normal and punches her full force in the stomach, the blow causes another shockwave as she’s sent flying. He turns into smoke again and follows her, he fly’s above her and turns back again, feet first he speeds up his downward descent, landing on her, forcing her to the ground with a slam. He back flips off of her then kicks a still grounded Glory, which caused her to lift off the ground with a spin. He grabs her mid-air then slams her down back first on his knee.

 

As Glory gets to her feet she uses superior speed to keep him on his toes again, the fight was going in Glory’s favour as Salazar was struggling to keep up with her at full speed. Eventually she grabs his head and twists, with a resounding crack Salazar’s neck snaps and he falls to the ground.

 

Glory turns and addresses everyone triumphantly, “Salazar’s dead, I win. There’s no one stopping me getting the key now.” Everyone looks in her direction in fear, she grins smugly, that is until she notices their eyes are moving upwards, confused she turns, only for her own eyes to widen with fear.

 

Salazar’s body’s floating upright ten feet off the ground, all of a sudden his neck snaps back in place, but now as well as the black eyes he has glowing green veins all over his face. He smirks, “You didn’t think it’ll be that easy did you? If it was D.U.S.T. would’ve killed me by now.” His voice is so deep that he no longer sounds human, he begins laughing it sounds so dark that everyone, even including Glory shivers in fear.

 

******

 

Everyone except the D.U.S.T. members, are staring at the screen in terror. Buffy & Faith start to tremble in fear, Spike wraps his arms around Buffy, as Lawson walks over and takes Faith in his arms. Cordelia clings onto Doyle’s arm at what she’s just seen, this also seems to be the wake up call Angel needs as he stares at the screen in horror.

 

“I’m sorry, you were right before, I was acting like a spoiled brat because I wasn’t in charge, after seeing what I’ve just saw, I’m behind 100% even my demon agrees.” Angel said apologetically.

 

Sirrus looks at him in surprise, “That even means the dark souls on board. That’s extremely rare, it almost never happens. This means it’s possible for your soul to turn back, only possible mind you.”

 

Angel had a look of hope in his eyes, “Why now?”

 

“Because this is probably the first time you’ve chose to do something, without expecting anything in return. Meaning you’ve finally accepted Buffy isn’t yours & never was.”

 

“Yeah I have.” He looks at Buffy & Spike, “Spike? I know you’ll do everything in your power to make her happy, if she has to be with anyone, I’m glad it’s you. I just wanted you to know, in case I don’t survive this fight. It’s time for me to get redemption....not Angel.”

 

Everyone looks amazed as Angel's chest begins to glow, “What’s happening?” Wesley asks infatuated. The glow seems to get brighter.

 

“He’s finally accepted the truth, that he doesn’t own Buffy, and that he’s Angelus, the crimes of his past were done by him, not someone else. It’s the first step on the road to cleansing his dark soul, it’s not an easy process most don’t even get this far.” Sirrus informs him just as amazed.

 

Everyone looks at Angel amazed as the glow slowly dissipates, “What else has to be done?” Lorne asked curiously.

 

“Well now he has to fight evil for the right reasons, avoid doing things selfishly and so on, but like I said it’s not easy, and the darkness won’t give up, it’ll try tempting him all the more, but the more his souls cleansed the easier it will be to control his demon.”

 

“That’s great Angel really, I’m happy for you, but can we talk about how Salazar’s just come back from the dead?” Buffy said, the start was said sincerely, but the question came out panicked.

 

“That’s the thing, Salazar wasn’t actually dead, even we don’t know how to kill him.”

 

“The guys neck was broken, and it snapped back in place like it was nothing.” Faith said from the safety of Lawson’s arms.

 

“That’s nothing, we’ve seen him fall in a volcano and survive.” Hornet added.

 

“So the only way to beat him, is by sending him home? Something we can’t do because the soldier there, won’t come out of denial, and the demon responsible is hiding?” Doyle asked worriedly.

 

“Yeah that’s the only way.” Arkillius responds.

 

“That’s bleeding great that is, only cardboard being In denial is the least of our worries.” Spike said matter-of-factly, everyone looked at him, only to see him looking across the room, they followed his gaze and their eyes landed on a catatonic Riley.

 

“Balls!” Hornet exclaims, “With that wanker being in a catatonic state, any hope we had of him coming out of denials been shot. He was still refusing to acknowledge what he’s seeing, and his body shut down because of it.”

 

Before anyone else could speak, their attention was drawn back to the screen.

 

******

 

Glory backs away in fear as Salazar floats towards her, “What the hell are you? No normal human could survive that.”

 

“If you haven’t figured out by now, that I’m not normal, you’re a thick bitch. But I’m definitely human, after I get the key I’ll be able to return home and get revenge, those bastards sent me here, so they die. I’ll leave this poxy little world in flames, it’ll teach that spasticated slayer to think she can take me on.”

 

Glory was still backing away, most of her followers fled the battlefield in fear, “Wait, we were both sent here by our enemies, we could join forces and find the key together. That way they can never stop us.”

 

If anything that made Salazar angrier, “Don’t insult me! That little blonde bimbo & her conglomerate of fucked up followers, or that playground prowling paedophile & his, can’t stop me as it is. So why the fuck would I need a hell-gods help? Especially yours?”

 

“Fine if that’s the way you want it let’s finish this.”

 

He laughs, “You mean like this?” He points out his hand and a massive bolt of lightning shoots out, heading directly towards Glory, it connects with such power that and explosion occurs.

 

After the smoke clears a wounded man lays where Glory was.

 

Salazar looks surprised, then a look of understanding dawned on his face, he begins laughing as he lowers himself near him. “Well, what’s your name mate?”

 

“Ben.” He chokes out.

 

“And do you mind telling me how you became a hell-gods meat suit Benny Boy?“

 

“You remember? No one’s supposed to remember the switch.”

 

“Like that bit of novice magic would work on someone like me.” He says offended.

 

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to offend you. Could you help me? I don’t want to share my body with Glory, but no one else remembers the change. You could separate us.”

 

He looks thoughtful, “I could, but what’s in it for me?”

 

“Anything you want, I’m a nurse at the hospital, if that means anything?”

 

“Hmmm, I’m sure you could come in useful somewhere down the line. It’s your lucky day boy.” He heals Ben, than with another blast of power, Ben & Glory find themselves separated.

 

Glory still looks wounded and shocked. “Ben? What are you doing?”

 

“I work for Salazar now Glory.”

 

Before Glory can respond Salazar grabs her by the throat, “You want hell so bad? Then go there.” The ground opens under Glory’s dangling feet, screams of terror can be heard from the opening, He drops her in the opening and it closes.

 

“Glory’s gone!” Ben sounds ecstatic. It was 7.30pm and the battle was officially over.

 

“For now, I’m under no delusion the bitch won’t eventually claw her way out. WE’RE DONE HERE!!!” He shouts the last bit and all his remaining minions approach him, he then starts leaving the field with his minions & Ben in toe.

 

******

 

Most of the occupants looked confused at first when Ben appeared, then the second he and Glory were separated they all understood.

 

“That’s Ben!” Giles exclaims, “He works with Christopher at the hospital.”

 

“He was sharing a body with Glory?” Willow asked confused.

 

“No, Ben was Glory’s mortal prison, she was supposed to live out the remainder of her day’s locked inside, then when Ben died so would she.” Arkillius explained.

 

“Well Glory’s gone, so why’s this Ben now working for Salazar?” Buffy asked confused.

 

“Glory won’t be gone forever, it could be days, weeks, months or years, but she’ll return. As for Ben, he feels grateful to Salazar, but Ben shouldn’t trust him, that leads down a bad road.”

 

“Why? It’s not like he doesn’t already have humans working for him.” Clem asked.

 

“Yeah I know, but there’s a big difference, the humans already working for him are the worst of the worst, rapists, murderers, kidnappers, drug dealers, gang members and so on. Ben’s just a guy feeling gratitude, Salazar knows he can’t trust him already, he has a plan, and Ben’s his perfect test subject.”

 

“Do you think he did it on purpose?” Spike asked curiously.

 

Buffy turns in his arms, “Did what on purpose?” She asked confused.

 

“Send Glory to hell instead of killing her.”

 

“Why would he do that?”

 

Lawson’s following Spike’s train of thought, “As a back up plan, what if he thinks there’s a chance we can defeat him? Especially with D.U.S.T. here. We defeat him and he’s gone when Glory finally manages to escape hell, with him not here to get revenge....” He trails off at Angelus’s look of understanding.

 

“She goes after us, because if we weren’t stopping her from getting the key, she would’ve been long gone by the time he turned up.”

 

“With the way Salazar works....its possible.” Sirrus responds.

 

Xander’s not been paying attention, he’s been looking at Buffy & Spike, feeling an intense jealousy at how Spike was cuddling Buffy to his chest. He can’t keep his mouth shut anymore.

 

“Do you two have to do that?”

 

Buffy looks at him expressionless, “Do what Xander?”

 

“Cuddle with the evil dead and rub my face in it?”

 

“Why’s that any business of yours? Spike’s my boyfriend now.”

 

“Because I’ve wanted you since the moment I saw you! It’s not fair that he gets you and I don’t.”

 

“How’s that not fair fuck face? Let’s not forget Anya was supposed to be your girl, and it sounds like you’ve completely forgot its illegal for slayers to date humans.” Hornet responds.

 

“He’s my ex.” Anya said matter-of-factly.

 

Xander looked at her in shock, “You’re dumping me?”

 

Everyone looked at him in disbelief, But Anya responds, “No, I already dumped you the second I found out you wanted Buffy, I’m stupid for not seeing it sooner, did you honestly think I’d still be your girlfriend? Especially after how you’ve been chasing Buffy around since yesterday?”

 

“Fine be that way, But if I can’t have Buffy, then no one can.” He finishes this statement by withdrawing a stake and lunging at Spike. He doesn’t get far as he’s intercepted by Hornet, who punches him in the face knocking him to the floor.

 

Bedlam walks over and touches his forehead then backs off. Xander gets up to try again, only to find out he can’t hurt Spike.

 

Xander spins and glares at Bedlam, “What you done to me? Why can’t I hurt Spike?”

 

Most of the people In the room looked confused, because to them he never tried a second time, the smirk Bedlam sends Xander though says different.

 

“Just a little spell, you can’t act on what you want to do, unless it’s for the right reasons of course.”

 

“WHAT?” Xander looks outraged, “When does it end?”

 

He shrugs, “When I decide to remove it.”

 

“You can’t do that! I’m doing the right thing I’m trying to dust Spike.”

 

“Yes I can, and no you’re not, if you were doing it for the right reasons the spell wouldn’t stop you. You’re only doing it out of jealousy, hatred & selfishness, meaning not the right reasons, and before you get technical, it doesn’t matter if you think it’s right, it goes off what D.U.S.T. says is right.”

 

“That’s a pretty powerful spell, I’ve never heard of anything like it.” Giles said amazed.

 

“It’s because it was created by The O.W., so it’s meant to be effective.”

 

“What’s the O.W.?”

 

Lindsey interrupts, “The Order of The Wicharei. Basically the magical branch of D.U.S.T.”

 

“Ah I see, what’s the other reason you did the spell Bedlam? I know there is one.” Giles asked curiously.

 

“There was, he was giving in to The Masters of Evils influence, like listening to his dark thoughts. If he carried on the darkness would have fully consumed his soul.”

 

Xander still looked angry, but there was a flash of fear in his eyes at that, only that didn’t stop him running his mouth.

 

“What do you mean? It’s the first time I’ve listened to my dark thoughts.”

 

Hornet raises an eyebrow, “You really expect us to believe that? That you lying to Buffy about remembering the rape attempt, wasn’t you listening to your dark thoughts?”

 

Xander was gaping like a fish not being able to formulate a response, however Buffy could, she extracts herself from Spike’s arms, walks over to Xander and slaps him hard across his cheek.

 

“You make me sick! Not only did you try to find the ingredients for a love spell, to use on ME, you also tried to stake my boyfriend, not to mention lied to me about remembering trying to rape me. Newsflash Xander I didn’t pretend to forget, I had nightmares about the disgusting stuff you said, so I would never have touched you romantically after that. When you did that love spell on Cordelia that backfired, making every girl in Sunnydale come onto you, the only reason you didn’t touch me, is because after the spell ended I would have kicked your ass. If I was a normal girl....you would’ve took advantage.” He doesn’t deny it which makes Buffy slap him again.

 

She makes her way back to Spike to see him looking at her in awe, “You called me your boyfriend.” He said with a goofy grin.

 

She blushes, “Yeah I did, twice in fact.”

 

“I know, I was to amazed to speak the first time.”

 

She shyly smiles at him and wraps herself back in his arms, “You’re definitely a sweet talker.” ‘I can’t tell him I love him yet, it’s too soon.’

 

Sirrus interrupts, “That’s something else we never knew about you Harris. The backfired love spell, do you have any idea how sick that is?”

 

Xander looks offended, “Nothing happened, so what’s the problem?”

 

Hornet scoffs, “The problem is you stupid cunt, that EVERY girl fell in love with you because of it.”

 

“And? You jealous?”

 

Arkillius managed to stop Hornet from breaking Xander’s face, Hornet responds anyway, “No you sick fuck, I don’t need spells to get girls, the problem is like Sirrus said, EVERY girl was in love with you. If you’re struggling to understand why that’s sick, that even means young girls, 5 years old, 10 years old, it doesn’t matter they were also in love with you. Then you have the bollocks to ask ‘what’s the problem?’”

 

Xander paled at the thought, as did everyone else, especially those involved that never thought of that before.

 

Bedlam interrupts, “Before anyone asks, the spell only stops his wrong actions, it doesn’t stop him running his mouth, unfortunately.”

 

“Why doesn’t it stop him saying bad stuff too?” Dawn asked curiously.

 

“We could, but this spell can’t because with it controlling his actions, he’s bound to run his mouth and let everyone know what he’s thinking.”

 

Xander hadn’t been listening, and proves Bedlam’s point, “Thanks to your spell I can’t use a love spell on Buffy now, and I can’t get myself turned, if I was a vampire she could date me.” His eyes widened at the truth that slipped out.

 

So did everyone else’s, “Case in point.” Bedlam continued.

 

“You stupid pillock! I can’t believe you were thinking about getting yourself turned. You heard what she said, she’d never touch you, and I for one am glad about that.” Giles snapped angrily.

 

“She would have gotten over my rape attempt, if everyone let her believe I didn’t remember, she’d be mine by now.”

 

Spike ran at him and punches him in the nose, breaking it again. “She would have never got over it you wanker.”

 

“I’m not healing his nose this time, the fucker asked for that.” Bedlam informs them.

 

“You are aware Harris, that In no reality we’ve been to, is Buffy interested in you at all?” Hornet asked.

 

Xander looks hurt at the news, while cupping his nose, “Why? Am I that bad?”

 

“Obviously. But that’s besides the point, I’ll talk slow, so even a cockwomble like you can understand, It’s...illegal.”

 

Xander just sat down on the couch and stayed silent, Angelus walks over to Angel.

 

“How’d you put up with him?” Angelus asked.

 

Angel sighs, “With great difficulty, the boys too stupid for his own good.”

 

“Aye, the one in my world pissed me off one time too many, me, William & Lawson taught the little gobshite a lesson.”

 

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Xander asked angrily.

 

Angel & Angelus sent identical smirks his way, Xander stood up and backed off.

 

“Stop looking at me like that!”

 

“Then stop being a wanker Harris.” Hornet says on his way past.

 

“What are we going to do about Ben? If Salazar has a plan for him it can’t be good.” Jonathan asks getting everyone back on the matter at hand.

 

Sirrus sighs, “Unfortunately there’s nothing we can do, he has to understand for himself, if we try to force that belief on him without proof, he’ll cling to it all the more. Take you lot for example, if you never saw what Salazar was capable of, would you have believed us if we told you he was evil?”

 

Everyone had a look of understanding at that, because no they probably wouldn’t have. They just have to hope that Ben figures it out, before it’s too late.

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

Salazar set Ben up in the room next to his, no one knew why, but they knew better than to question Salazar.

 

He walks in the main room getting everyone’s attention, “We lost some soldiers in the battle with Glory, we need more, and luckily I have the solution, if you know anyone from L.A. call them here, tell them to gather any evil beings or criminals they know. Hanson, Cactus stay there, the rest of you have your orders.” The rest of the minions nod and leave the room.

 

Hanson & Cactus walk over to him, “What do you need Master?” Hanson asked.

 

“I need you to bring me that vial I gave you for safe keeping, Cactus I need you to watch Ben closely, I don’t trust him, at midnight he’ll become useful.” He finishes with a smirk, they both nod and leave to do their tasks. One of the minions walk back in and Salazar gets their attention.

 

“You, come here.” The minion walks over, “I have a special mission for you, I need you to get someone for me, after you do lock him in one of the cells.” He hands the minion a piece of paper, after he reads it he leaves with a nod.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

At 9pm Lorne’s phone rings drawing everyone’s attention to him, he shrugs and answers then walks out the room.

 

Willow offered to do a mind walk with Riley to try and get him back, but Hornet refused, telling her she can’t be sure what she’d see in his mind. It was decided Bedlam would do it. They were getting everything set up ready for the spell.

 

Spike took this time to gather information on his brothers, “Hornet mate? What other info have you got on Wallace & Winston?” Buffy who was still in Spike’s arms looked curious as well.

 

Hornet turned to him, “Well we met them after we met you, they were on their way to Germany to stop an apocalypse.”

 

“What apocalypse was that?” Wesley asked curiously.

 

“Something in the Black Forest was looking to bring back a demon that tried ending the world, it was stopped thousands of years ago, by Victor Vicstrum.”

 

The name causes multiple people in the room to gasp.

 

“Victor Vicstrum? I always thought he was a myth or legend.” Giles said shocked.

 

“Who’s that Giles?” Buffy asked confused.

 

“According to legend, he was a vampire hunter, one of the best in fact, every vampire feared him, some demons as well. The legend states as a human he survived an assassination attempt, where he was locked inside a building with over 300 vampires, and he killed them all singlehandedly. The second attempt succeeded, however the master vampire that ordered it decided to turn him, he supposedly rose as a vampire, killed the master that turned him and all his minions, the story states that when he’s in his vampire visage, instead of the amber eyes they’re supposed to possess, he has luminous purple ones.”

 

“Wait, did you say purple?” Spike asked with a tremor in his voice.

 

“Yes, if the legends to be believed, why do you ask Spike?”

 

“I always thought I was hallucinating, I didn’t think it was real, even after I was turned I’d never seen anything like it before.”

 

“Spike baby? What’s wrong?” Buffy asked concerned.

 

******

 

Spike’s Flashback - London, England – 1879

 

William was walking home, it was late and the party was dull. ‘I cannot believe how dreadful that party was, the women were not dressed appropriately at all, and the men certainly were not being gentlemanly. What would mother say about me being there? It was a ghastly place I had to leave, maybe Wallace & Winston are home.....” A noise from a nearby roof brought him out his thoughts, he looks up to see what caused it, only to stop dead in fear.

 

A creature with luminous purple eyes was watching him from the roof, it seemed intrigued in him, he’s not sure why it hasn’t hurt him yet. Women’s laughter from up the street drew his attention, when he turned back the creature was gone, there was no trace of it.

 

He continues walking home in thought, ‘Did I see something? Or did those ruffians put something in the drinks? That’s probably the reason, creature’s like that don’t exist.’

 

He carries on home forcing himself to forget what he saw.

 

Spike’s Flashback – End

 

******

 

When Spike finished explaining everyone was looking at him in shock. Lorne came back in the room while Spike was telling his story.

 

“Vicstrum took interest in you? Fascinating! Maybe there was more to you being turned than we know.” Giles says intrigued.

 

Hornet & Sirrus glance at each other at that, something Buffy noticed, “You know something don’t you?” She asked curiously.

 

“Yeah, we’re not sure why but Spike’s special.” Sirrus responds.

 

Spike looked shocked, “Me? Why?”

 

“The first Spike we ever met died sacrificing himself on the Hellmouth, he was stopping The First Evil from ending humanity. Long story short, he wore a amulet and burned saving the world, only that wasn’t the end. The amulet somehow sent him to another multiverse, and to us, we don’t know why but after he helped us, the amulet spat him back out as a ghost, only it was 19 days for them, while it had been 3 months for us. We basically followed him back to this multiverse, found him, made him corporeal again, then took him to that Buffy, she had some guy called The Immortal sniffing round her, turned out he only wanted her because she’d been with you & Angel, he had a weird obsession with you two, anyway he pissed off Hornet, so he cut his head off. That Spike’s the reason we know this multiverse even exists.”

 

Everyone looked amazed at that, “That’s outstanding, the reason you’re even here to help us to begin with, is because of a different Spike saving the world. I can’t be the only person who thinks this isn’t a coincidence?” Wesley asked while writing the information down.

 

“It’s not, after enough research we discovered the truth. Spike? Buffy? Your first born son is the one prophecised to vanquish The First Evil from this multiverse, forever.”

 

“WHAT?” Everyone exclaims in disbelief.

 

“We were just as shocked as you, the only reason he hasn’t been born yet, is because the prophecy somehow involves us.”

 

“That’s why you’ve been to multiple worlds in this multiverse isn’t it? You’re looking for the right Buffy & Spike?” Andrew asks curiously.

 

“No not really, any Buffy & Spike can have the Prophecised child.”

 

“You’re just not sure where you come in? “ Lawson asks.

 

“Exactly, we know this specific prophecy involves us helping Buffy & Spike in the fight against evil, but we’re not sure what fight we’re supposed to help with.”

 

“You’ve helped multiple different versions of us and still nothing? You don’t think it could mean Salazar do you?” Buffy asks curiously.

 

“It’s possible, he’s the biggest threat you’ve faced up to yet, and he’s only going to get worse. I know he’s up to something, and whatever it is, it’s big.”

 

“Do you think it involves Ben? Salazar’s plan?”

 

“Yes, somehow Ben’s involved, Salazar accepted him too quickly, we know Ben has nothing to offer him.”

 

“He could do something to his soul.” Xander randomly stated.

 

Hornet scoffs, “We’ve already told you, souls do fuck all, so even if he takes Ben’s soul he won’t be any different.”

 

“But they have to! That’s what I’ve always been told.”

 

“Yeah which is complete bollocks! Even if they did, can you point out the stupidity in your lots actions? You’re all souled beings telling soulless one’s how it feels not to have one! How the fuck do you know how it feels? You have them you morons! So unless you’ve somehow lost your soul then got it back? You know nothing. That’s like men telling women how it feels to have sodding period’s, you know nothing about being soulless, so don’t you tell us how it feels or how YOU believe soulless being’s act.”

 

They all looked shocked, mainly because they didn’t know how it felt not to have a soul, they just went off what they were told. Xander though decided to open his mouth again.

 

“I didn’t think of it like that, but I was only going of what Angel told us.”

 

He raises his eyebrow, “The same Angel you’ve openly admitted in the past you don’t trust? No, I think it was a ‘He agreed with my belief scenario’ if he told you differently you wouldn’t have believed him anyway. And while we’re on the subject your Angelus was a massive manipulator, what made you think the soul changed that? Or did you honestly believe everyone on earth had a split personality disorder when it came to souls?”

 

Buffy looked thoughtful, ‘He’s right again, Angelus was a manipulator, so why did I think Angel wasn’t? And I did think that if you didn’t have a soul you were a different person, another thing I’ve told myself to make this job easier.’

 

Giles was also thinking, ‘I never thought of that, Angelus was known for his manipulation tactics so it stands to reason Angel would be also.’

 

Everyone else looked thoughtful as well, but before anything else could be said, Angel spoke to Lorne.

 

“Lorne? Who called you?”

 

Lorne looked shocked then sheepish, “Sorry Angelcakes with all the excitement I forgot, it was the person I left in charge of Caritas. According to him Salazar’s minions were spotted in L.A. gathering more soldiers, he’s gathered well over a thousand.”

 

Most of the occupants looked scared at this knowledge, “Over a thousand! What are we supposed to do?” Andrew sounds panicked.

 

Sirrus looked thoughtful, “That’s not a coincidence, Buffy’s slayer dream shows the welcome to Los Angeles sign, now Salazar’s gathering minions from there.”

 

“What do you think it means?” Buffy asked worriedly.

 

“I don’t know, but whatever his plans are involves Los Angeles, one problem is Salazar’s amazing at leading people on a wild goose chase, meaning if he makes a plan that’s obvious, it’s usually the exact opposite.”

 

“So, if his plan makes us think Los Angeles is the target, it means it’s not?” Cordelia asked curiously.

 

“Spot on, 9 times out of 10 it’s something other than the obvious.”

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

Salazar was sat in his throne looking at the vial in his hand, It was 10pm. ‘Two more hours then it’s time, Ben’s starting to get anxious proving all the more I can’t trust him, he’s regretting coming here, soon he’ll understand how right he was to do so.’ He’s brought out of his thoughts by some minions dragging a man in, said man’s wearing a suit but has a sack over his head, and from the noises he’s obviously gagged underneath it.

 

“Ah, I see you found our guest? Set him up in the cell next to Scabby’s, I’ll get to him eventually.” He smirks as the person under the sack begins panicking. The minions drag the guy out anyway.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

At 10.25pm everything was ready for Bedlam to walk in Riley’s mind, everyone else were wondering what he’ll see in there.

 

“You sure you want to do this mate? I don’t mind taking over.” Hornet asked.

 

“I’m fine, and besides we need him in one piece, well as much as possible anyway, and I don’t picture him coming out in one piece if you’re the one going in, do you?” Bedlam responds amused.

 

“Touché, I just don’t know what you’re going to be seeing in there, it could be something seriously fucked up.”

 

“I know you’re concerned so am I, this sick fucker use to cut demons open for fun, who knows what else he could have done.”

 

“I get you I do, just be carful I don’t won’t to have to chase you in there to kick your arse.”

 

He chuckles, “No problem, see you all soon.” He sits down with his legs crossed facing Riley, he takes a deep breath and closes his eyes. At 10.30pm the mind walk begins.

 

******

 

Riley’s Mind

 

Bedlam looked round what looks to be a house, from the news on the TV it appears to be in Iowa, Riley’s sat in an armchair watching the TV he seems older, maybe in his 40s. Buffy walks in from the kitchen wearing a flowery dress with a beaming smile on her face, she’s still young, she appears to be carrying him a beer, he watches the scene play out.

 

“Riley honey I have your beer.” Fantasy Buffy said in a cheerful tone.

 

“Thank you Buffy, you’re the greatest wife a man could ask for, I’m glad I got you away from Sunnydale, those people were bad for you. I still wished you would’ve staked Spike though.”

 

Fantasy Buffy seemed sad at the mention of Spike, “You know I couldn’t hurt Spike Riley, he helped us stop Glory.”

 

Bedlam laughed at that, even though no one could hear him, “Poor fuckers even playing second best to Spike in his own Fantasy, how sad. Can’t say I blame the poor cow though, how boring is this life? He’s even turned Buffy into a sodding house wife.”

 

He swears he sees Fantasy Buffy look at him out the corner of her eye, ‘That can’t be right, she’s a figment of Finn’s imagination.’ Before he could voice his thought though Riley spoke again.

 

“I know, he’s still a demon though, that’s all that matters.” Riley gets up and leaves the room. Bedlam goes to follow but Fantasy Buffy’s voice stops him.

 

“Wait, please don’t leave me here.”

 

Bedlam looks at her in pure shock, “You can see me? Never mind that, how the hell is a figment of Finn’s imagination talking to me?”

 

Fantasy Buffy looks amazed, “So this isn’t real? Oh thank god! But I can’t get out.”

 

He just looks at her in disbelief, then his expression changes to thoughtful. “Wait let me try something.” He waves his hand and looks at her again. “That moron, you were a figment of Finn’s imagination, but with how much stock he put in his fantasy version of Buffy, and with being on a Hellmouth you became real.”

 

“So we’re still in Sunnydale? Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! You are taking me with you aren’t you?” She sounds worried like she expects him to leave her here.

 

He sighs, “Obviously I’m taking you with me, I wouldn’t be one of the good guys if I left you would I? But some information you need to be caught up on.”

 

He tells her everything, The Wish, Salazar, the truth about souls, who he is, the real Buffy finally being with Spike, Xander and his lies, Glory being gone, everything.

 

Buffy looks shocked at what she’s heard, then she looks shattered, “But if the other Buffy’s with Spike how can I be his soulmate?"

 

“We’ll figure something out, with Finn making you real your Spike’s come into existence somewhere, one can’t exist without the other and all that rot.” He frowns, “At least I think that’s the saying, anyhow we need to wake Riley from his catatonic state, with the muppet still being in denial Salazar’s stuck here.”

 

“OK I like that my Spike’s out there somewhere, and Riley best come out of his denial or I’ll kick his ass.”

 

“You sound more and more like Buffy with every sentence, gotta tell you its kinda freaky.”

 

She shrugs as they walk towards the door Riley went through, “I am Buffy.”

 

“Yeah I know, that’s what’s freaky, you know you might see some bad stuff the further we get into his mind don’t you?”

 

She nods, “I’m prepared, let’s do this.” She finishes her response by opening the door.

 

They appear in Buffy’s bedroom at Revello drive. Buffy & Riley were laid in bed, Riley woke up and sneaked out of bed then started getting dressed, Then left the room again.

 

Fantasy Buffy looks at the other Buffy in the bed, “She’s not real too is she?”

 

“God I hope not.” He looks around, “No, I think this is a memory, we have to follow him.”

 

She nodded and they both left the room then went downstairs, as they opened the front door they appeared in a run down building, around the room people were being fed off from vampires, and they were enjoying it by the looks of things.

 

“What’s going on here? What is this place?”

 

“It’s a bitehouse.” At her confused look he explains, “Basically a whorehouse for people who get off on being bit by vampires, it’s not illegal to enjoy a bite during a relationship, but it’s illegal to sell it like this. These vampires don’t care about the person, so they usually end up taking too much and killing the cunt dumb enough to pay for it. Just because they don’t die the first time, doesn’t mean they won’t.”

 

She looked disgusted, “If any vampires going to bite me it’s going to be Spike. This is disgusting, paying for it like this.”

 

“When we’re back I need to inform Sirrus of this, but first we need to find Finn.”

 

She nods and they make their way up the stairs, they look in one room then the next, this continued until they came across the room that Finn was inside. He pushed the door open, the sight made him sick, and caused Fantasy Buffy’s eyes to widen in horror.

 

“Oh My God! I can’t believe Riley would do this, I feel sick.” In a armchair in the middle of the room sat Riley, with two vampires feeding from him, one on each arm, he kept telling them to bite harder.

 

“Most humans can’t handle the truth of the supernatural, their minds can’t comprehend it properly, which leads to things like this happening.”

 

“How can others handle it then?” She asked confused.

 

“Because the people who know about it always on some level believed it, be it subconsciously or just down right believing it. You see the more you believe the more you see, so when you hear about people seeing ghosts that’s because they believe in the supernatural, some people go looking for mythological creatures, Alien’s, demons, ghosts and so on because they know they’re out there. People who don’t believe and then are forced into something that shows it’s real can’t handle it.”

 

Fantasy Buffy nods thinking of her cousin Celia, “Yeah, I get it.”

 

“Right we need to find the real Finn, this one’s only a memory, time to go.”

 

She nods and follows him out the room, they walk down the stairs and out the door, then find themselves entering the magic box, the Scoobies were sat around researching something, Bedlam walks over and slams his hand on the table, making Riley jump.

 

“So this is where you’re hiding? You have to wake up you muppet, we have to stop Salazar.”

 

Riley turns to look at him, “I’m fine here, you’re filling everyone’s head with lies, Salazar’s not dangerous, that screen was only showing lies. I have my Buffy here, so I’m fine."

 

“You mean the Buffy that’s leaving with me because she wants Spike?”

 

Riley looked at him accusingly, “You’re lying, my Buffy doesn’t want that thing.”

 

“Yes I do Riley, I belong with Spike.”

 

Riley looked at her in disbelief, “What did you do?” He asked Bedlam accusingly.

 

“Nothing you did this yourself, congratulations Finn, with how much you fantasised about the perfect Buffy, wishing she was real especially on a Hellmouth, well now she is, and with her being real she’s now Spike’s soulmate, meaning somewhere out there a new Spike’s also been created to be with her.”

 

“No! That can’t be true!”

 

“It Is Riley, I’m meant to be with Spike I’m a slayer, not a housewife.”

 

“Why’s she a slayer here? It’s my mind?”

 

“Because you thick cunt, you didn’t fantasise about a normal Buffy, you fantasised about a slayer Buffy that you talked into leaving the Hellmouth, to try for a normal life, that’s the same reason she hasn’t aged, and not to burst your bubble pal, but even if she was a normal human Spike or William would still be her soulmate. That’s just something you’re going to have to accept and move on, you knew you weren’t enough for her as it is, or you wouldn’t be going to bitehouse’s looking to feel wanted and needed.”

 

Riley’s eyes widened at that, “How do you know?”

 

He sighs, “Seriously? Because the fact I’ve been playing catch the retard in your noggin.”

 

“You didn’t have permission to come into my head.” Riley said angrily.

 

“And you didn’t have permission to make a wish, and be in denial about it but that didn’t stop you did it cunt?!” He said angrily, Riley was really stepping on his last good nerve.

 

Riley looked offended but couldn’t think of a response, Fantasy Buffy could though.

 

“Can we leave please? I don’t want to be in Riley’s head anymore.”

 

“Yeah we can, follow us or don’t Finn I don’t care anymore.”

 

They walked to the door opened it and stepped through, the world went white.

 

******

 

Bedlam’s eyes snapped open, Fantasy Buffy was clinging onto his shoulder, everyone was looking at them in amazement. Bedlam gets up and explains everything that happened, starting with Riley’s fantasy, the reason Fantasy Buffy became real, the bitehouse and finally the magic box.

 

Buffy stepped forward with Spike, “So Riley fantasised about her so much, and with us being on a Hellmouth she became real? And her Spike’s out there now too because she exists?”

 

Bedlam nods, “Yeah pretty much.”

 

“Wow, we need to think of another name though, it’s gonna be confusing with two Buffy’s, but what could we call her?”

 

“How about Anne, it’s not like I haven’t gone by it before.”

 

“OK Anne it is.”

 

“Don’t worry pet, we’ll find your Spike.” Spike reassured her.

 

“Thank you, you don’t by any chance have a spare change of clothes do you? I’d rather not wear this dress anymore than necessary.”

 

“Yeah I’ll find you something, it’s late we’re going to bed soon anyway.” Buffy reassured her.

 

“Good, you have no idea what it was like being trapped inside Riley’s head, when Bedlam turned up I’d never been so happy to see someone else.”

 

“I can imagine.” Buffy responds sympathetically.

 

Xander had a look like Christmas had come early. “I’m Xander, why don’t I show you around?”

 

Anne looked at him in disbelief, “I know who you are Xander, I have most of Buffy’s memories, up until recently anyway, but Bedlam filled me in on everything, and I mean EVERYTHING.”

 

Xander’s eyes widened at that, then he looked at Bedlam accusingly. “Why couldn’t you keep your mouth shut?”

 

He shrugs, “Because she deserved to know, and do you really think if I didn’t tell her no one else would?”

 

Before Xander can respond Riley speaks up, “I can’t believe it! He can’t have one Buffy so he tries for another.”

 

Sirrus interrupts, “You need to both grow up, they both belong with Spike, you need to accept that, or after this is over we’ll wipe your memories of Buffy, do I make myself clear?”

 

They both snapped their mouths shut at that, not wanting to forget she exists.

 

Hornet speaks up, “I’ve gotta ask, no offence to either of you, but what do you do to get blokes chasing you round? I mean you’re both gorgeous don’t get me wrong, and yes that was a complement, but I’m not interested in the slightest. I’m just wondering.”

 

“I don’t know.” Buffy shrugs.

 

Anne shrugs as well, “I don’t know either.”

 

Hornet just turns to Spike, “Surely you know?”

 

Spike chuckles, “Because she’s Buffy, the strongest, bravest and most loving woman I’ve ever known, I know she only pretends to be stupid just to get out of research, but inside that head of hers is a well of knowledge. She never gives up no matter what’s thrown at her, I’ve seen the best and the worst of her and it never changed a thing, if anything it made it realer than I could have ever thought possible. She’s my everything, I look at her and I see my future, my family, the good we can do together, and I don’t want anything else, is it any wonder why I fell in love with her? She’s the one.”

 

Both Buffy & Anne had tears running down their cheeks at his words, the rest of the girls also teared up at them, the guys looked at him in amazement, Even Riley & Xander seemed to look impressed, but also a bit jealous that they never thought of saying anything like that.

 

Hornet just smiles at him, “Yeah, I think I see it now.”

 

“You love me?” She asked in a hopeful tone.

 

Spike took a deep breath even though he didn’t need to, after looking at Hornet he gained confidence and turned to face her.

 

“Yeah I do, with all my heart.”

 

Her eyes filled with love as she chose to say the words back, “I love you too.”

 

Spike’s eyes filled with amazement, awe & love. “You mean it?”

 

She nods with a smile, Spike picks her up then spins her round making her laugh.

 

Anne looked on sadly, “I hope we find my Spike soon.”

 

Jonathan looked at her thoughtfully, but he didn’t voice his theory yet, he decided to think on it a bit more, he didn’t want to get her hopes up and then be wrong.

 

Sirrus answers her, “We will, you have my word.”

 

“Thank you, If it wasn’t for you bringing Bedlam here, I would’ve still been trapped in Riley’s head.”

 

“Nothing to thank us for, it’s what the good guys do.”

 

She nods with a smile, Joyce looks at the clock, and discovers it’s 11.30pm, “I think we should all turn in, we need to be up early in case Salazar tries something else.”

 

Everyone agreed and went to turn in and get some sleep.

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

Salazar was still waiting, ‘Half an hour, that’s how long we have left, then it’ll be time.’ He’s brought out of his thoughts by Cactus entering the room with Ben.

 

“Master Salazar it’s nearly time, what do you need us to do?”

 

“Lock the doors, can’t have Ben trying to leave now can we?” He smirks as Ben’s eyes widened in fear.

 

“No Please! Don’t hurt me!”

 

“Sorry Ben, but you did say that you’d do anything to be free of Glory, I just don’t think you had the same thing in mind.”

 

“Oh God! Oh God! Are you going to kill me?”

 

“No of course not!” He exclaims shocked, at Ben’s relieved look he continues, “You’re just going to wish I did.” He laughs at his look of terror.

 

“Nononono Please! Oh God Please!”

 

Salazar looks at the watch on his wrist, it reads 11.50pm. “Just ten more minutes mate, I know you’re dying to know what I’ve got in store for you.”

 

“No! Please let me leave! I wan...” His lips seal closed with a wave of Salazar’s hand.

 

“Shut the fuck up! You’re going nowhere boy.”

 

They sit in silence for ten minutes, well apart from Salazar tapping his foot, when his watch strikes 12am he smirks.

 

With a wave of his hand Ben’s lips unsealed, then he takes out the vial and opens it, green smoke came out then went into Ben’s mouth and down his throat.

 

Ben stands up, but instead of his normal eye colour, they were black with green iris's. When he spoke it wasn’t his voice.

 

“Salazar? I knew I could count on you.” He says with a smirk.

 

Salazar smirks in return, “Think nothing of it.......Granddad Solomon.”

 

Everyone watched as the two embraced each other in a hug.

Notes:

Glory’s gone, Solomon’s returned, Buffy & Spike have said the words, Anne's now in existence and looking for her Spike, Xander’s been bespelled, and Angel finally has a wake up call.

The 'Under Magical Influence' Genre will be added in regards to Xander. The 'Kidnapping' Genre will be added as Ben is now with Salazar against his will.

The 'Torture (Emotional/Phychological)' Warning is now in place regarding Ben’s possession.

Like the other chapters, this was all done by me, let me know what you think.

Chapter 8: Chapter 8 - The Return of The King

Notes:

Longest chapter yet, I doubt any in the future will be this big.

Very dark events happen in this chapter, one action near the beginning, and dark theme's discussed near the end.

An action scene takes place just before the end, the scenes will switch between two locations, so some of them aren't marked.

More world building and uncomfortable truths in this chapter.

The Genres, Characters and Warnings updated with this chapter.

Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

They break from the hug and Salazar turns to address his minions, “This is my Granddad, Solomon Serpent or Master Solomon to you. We’re going to be having lots of fun.”

 

Solomon looks round the room, “Salazar? Where are we?”

 

“From what I’ve pieced together we’re in another multiverse, I can’t seem to open a portal home, I’ve learnt some interesting things though.” He fills him in on everything he knows, Glory’s host now being his host, the slayers protecting the key, D.U.S.T. being here, the Hellmouth, he tells him everything.

 

“Poor fucker, he gets out of sharing his body with a hell-god only to share it with someone worse, I love the poetry in that, me & your farther taught you well. These slayers will be dealt with, that key is our way home and I won’t have some little girls standing in our way, it will be harder with D.U.S.T. being here, but not impossible.”

 

“With the two of us they don’t stand a chance.”

 

"Don’t get ahead of yourself, remember this isn’t my body so I’m not at full power.”

 

“I know that’s a problem. hang on, why can’t we bring your body back?”

 

“I’d do it in a heartbeat, but my body isn’t buried in this multiverse.”

 

Hanson interrupts, “Excuse the interruption Masters, but there maybe a way around that.”

 

Salazar & Solomon turn to face him, “And what might that be Hanson?” Salazar asked.

 

“You could go to Wolfram & Hart, they’re a multidimensional evil law firm, its possible they have access to other multiverse’s as well, they’re owned by the Senior Partners, they’re like the evil version of the Powers That Be. the closest Wolfram & Hart office is in L.A. Masters.”

 

They both looked thoughtful, then Solomon spoke, “Couldn’t hurt, we’ll pay them a visit tomorrow.”

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

By 10am they were all awake and down in the kitchen, Anne stayed in Buffy’s room, as Buffy chose to share with Spike again. They only slept, deciding to wait until Salazar’s defeated before taking the relationship further.

 

Anne was still thinking about where her Spike could be, she hoped it doesn’t take long to find him. After a couple of minutes Gunn voiced a thought.

 

You know how Riley created Anne? How can we be sure Xander hasn’t made one? I mean he was fantasising something heavy.”

 

Everyone went silent at that, until Bedlam spoke, “Nothing to worry about, you see Xander’s fantasising about a Buffy that already exists, Riley’s fantasy however was about a Buffy that he talked into leaving the Hellmouth, something we all know Buffy wouldn’t do while the Hellmouths active. That means Riley created a different Buffy, Xander’s fantasy Buffy can’t become real because that Buffy already exists, he’s wanting this Buffy to date him, while Riley wanted a Buffy who would quit the fight against evil and leave with him. Two of the exact same person can’t exist in a reality without serious repercussions, and Angel & Angelus don’t count they had different experiences, even if they didn’t they’re from different realities, meaning they aren’t the same person anyway.”

 

“Fascinating, so because the Buffy Xander wants is already here, this specific universe, or reality, won’t allow another one to exist?” Giles asked.

 

“Yes, that’s exactly it.”

 

“I think I understood that.” Buffy said confused.

 

“Because Anne technically did something you didn’t, it basically makes her the same as an alternate Buffy, is that right?” Dawn said, the question was directed to Bedlam.

 

“Yeah, that’s spot on, you’re pretty smart the rest should get you researching, you, Giles & Wesley would work well in D.U.R.T. you’ll probably love it too.”

 

“What’s D.U.R.T.?” Wesley asks curiously.

 

“Dimensional Unnatural Research Team. The one’s who research new species, poisons, multiverse’s and so on.”

 

“Amazing, that sounds very intriguing, after the threat of Salazar’s dealt with I’d like to learn more, if you’d allow me such an honour?” He asked hopeful.

 

“Of course, you can see as much as you like.” Wesley & Giles looked ecstatic, everyone else looked interested as well.

 

Jonathan finally voices his theory. “Bedlam? I have a theory to where Anne’s Spike could be, I didn’t want to bring it up last night in case I got Anne’s hopes up for nothing.”

 

“What’s your theory Jonathan?”

 

“Anne? What was Spike like in your mind?” Everyone looked confused at the question, but stayed silent and let Anne answer him.

 

She smiles as she begins to talk about her Spike, “He came for me, after we left the Hellmouth Spike followed us, I kind of always hoped he would, anyway he came to the house confessed his love and I said it back, I sometimes dreamt of it happening, only to be on the verge of tears when I woke up and realised it was a dream.”

 

Everyone looked sad on her behalf, but Jonathan continued. “That’s what I thought, now my theory revolves around the fact that Riley was still on the Hellmouth when he created you.” He turns to Bedlam, “Anne was also fantasising about a Spike that did something our Spike didn’t, and with her technically still being on the Hellmouth, how do we know her fantasy Spike didn’t become real? Unlike Riley & Xander, Anne didn’t have a Spike with her so her fantasy of him was all she had.”

 

Bedlam’s eyes widened, “You’re a genius! That probably did happen, and we don’t have to worry about that Spike’s fantasy becoming real, because we all know Spike won’t settle for anyone other than the real Buffy, and to that Spike, Anne would be the real Buffy because she was the one he was chasing.”

 

Anne looked hopeful, “Does that mean you have to do a mind walk with me? If it means finding my Spike I’ll do it.”

 

“Yes I will have to do a mind walk with you, we can’t do it till later though, we need to have breakfast, and I need to gather the ingredients for the spell.”

 

Willow looked confused, “I can understand why I couldn’t mind walk Riley, but why can’t I help with Buffy?”

 

“Because we’re the government we can’t legally allow you to mind walk anyone without their consent, it being a matter of life & death, or unless it legally involves you, it would be classed as an invasion of privacy otherwise, but with us being D.U.S.T. we can legally do it, within the confines of the law mind you.”

 

“OK I understand, that makes sense.”

 

“Good, we’ll eat breakfast and get everything set up.”

 

The rest nod and start making breakfast.

 

******

 

Wolfram & Hart, Los Angeles, California

 

At 11am Salazar & Solomon walked through the main doors of Wolfram & Hart, they were getting looks from everyone in the reception area, they could tell these two were dangerous, Solomon also changed the clothes Ben put on, he was now wearing all black similar to Salazar.

 

"We need to speak to the person in charge.” Salazar ordered the receptionist.

 

The receptionist looked up, the second she saw Solomon's eyes she felt pure fear run through her. “Hang on one moment please sir, I’ll contact Mr Manners right away.” She said with a tremor in her voice. She picked up the phone, “Mr Manners sir, you have two gentlemen at the front desk demanding to see you, they don’t look like the type to keep waiting. OK I’ll tell them.” She puts the phone down then addresses Salazar & Solomon. “Mr Manners will be down shortly.”

 

“Good, we get bored easy.” Salazar responds.

 

They wait a couple of minutes, then their attentions drawn to the lift as a man exits followed shortly after by a woman.

 

The man approaches them with his hand out looking to shake their hand, only to drop it and clear his throat as they both stare at him unimpressed. “I’m Holland Manners, the CEO of the Los Angeles branch of Wolfram & Hart, this here is Lilah Morgan, how can we help you.” He said after clearing his throat.

 

“I’m Salazar Serpent, this is my grandfather Solomon Serpent.” He smirks at he look of fear on Hollands face. “Heard of us have you?”

 

“Yes, The Serpent Family are legendary for the evil you’re responsible for."

 

Lilah looks confused, “Who are The Serpent Family Holland?”

 

“Only the CEOs know of their existence, mainly to not get involved in their business.”

 

“Smart move, and seeing as you know us, that means you know we’re from another multiverse, you see the skin I’m wearing isn’t mine, he’s Glorificus’s old meat suit. My body happens to be buried in our multiverse, the question is Holland, can you get it here?” Solomon asked.

 

“You defeated a hell-god?” Lilah asked shocked.

 

“No my grandson did, and don’t sound so surprised, it’s an insult. I’m prone to torturing people who insult my family, you hear me girl?”

 

She goes to open her mouth, but Holland interrupts before she can say anything. “She hears you, and I can guarantee she won’t insult your family again.”

 

“Good make sure she doesn’t, I need my body back to face D.U.S.T. they’ve come here to stop us.”

 

“D.U.S.T. are here? The Senior Partners won’t like that.”

 

“Do we look like we give two flying fucks what your bosses like or don’t like? I’ve wiped The Watchers Council off the face of the sodding earth, don’t make me do the same to Wolfram & Hart.” Salazar said angrily.

 

Lilah & Hollands eyes widened at that, and multiple gasps come from the people listening.

 

Lilah can’t keep her mouth shut at that, “I’d like to see you try, we’re too powerful for the likes of you.”

 

The doors open and hundreds of minions enter, Solomon grabs Lilah by the throat. “Challenge accepted.” He says with a smirk.

 

Salazar speaks up, “Boys, kill them all, and take anything that could be of use.” He finishes this order by slitting Hollands throat. The minions cheered and did just that, with a wave of his hand Salazar locked all the doors, there was no escape.

 

Solomon dragged Lilah over to a nearby table, “I think its time for you to learn your place girl.” He proceeds to rip her skirt and underwear off, then unzips himself and forces his way inside her.

 

"NO PLEASE! STOP PLEASE!” Lilah screamed.

 

“Shouldn’t have insulted my family a second time girl.” He said while still ramming into her with enough strength to make her bleed and bruise.

 

She was sobbing and begging for him to stop, but he wasn’t listening as Ben was kicking up a storm. “STOP IT! YOU’RE SICK, LET ME HAVE MY BODY BACK!” “Now why would I do that boy? I’m just getting started fucking with you, hahaha." “I DON’T WANT THIS, I never did please let her go, and release me.” “How’s about...no? Watch and learn boy, you’ve seen nothing yet.” After Solomon finishes he grabs Lilah’s head, and with a twist breaks her neck. “NOOOOO! WHY?!! YOU SICK FUCK!!!” “You’ve only just figured that out? Not very smart are you?” He closed his mind before Ben could respond, he proceeds to tuck himself away then zip up, he then walks over to Salazar.

 

“Was that really necessary?” Salazar asked with a sigh.

 

"Not really, not usually one for rape, but I was fucking with Ben, going to see if I can break him before I get my body back.”

 

He chuckles, “Now that sounds like you, glad you haven’t lost yourself granddad.”

 

He scoffs, “Of course not, what do you take me for?”

 

“Nothing granddad, just glad is all.” He finishes with a smirk when Solomon huffs.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

At 1pm Lorne’s phone rings, he takes it out and answers it, “Yeah....WHAT?!.....OK thanks for letting me know scrumptious.”

 

“What’s happened?” Angel asked curiously.

 

“Salazar & Ben attacked Wolfram & Hart, they’ve raided the place, and killed everyone inside.”

 

“What? Why would Ben help Salazar? Especially kill people?” Buffy asked confused.

 

“That’s the thing babycakes, according to my friend Ben was wearing all black like Salazar.”

 

Everyone looked confused & shocked at that, but then Sirrus spoke. “Bedlam? Use the monitor, find out what happened at Wolfram & Hart.”

 

Bedlam nods and touches the screen, after a couple of minutes video footage played, they all watched confused until they heard Ben speak at the receptionist desk. The voice made Sirrus, Bedlam, Hornet & Arkillius gasp. They pause the video.

 

“It can’t be.” Bedlam said shocked.

 

“He’s dead.” Hornet added just as shocked.

 

“How’s this possible?” Arkillius asked, not wanting to believe what he was hearing.

 

“I don’t know, but this situations just got much worse.”

 

“Who is it?” Anne asked worriedly.

 

“Solomon.” Sirrus responds.

 

Everyone looks worried, Giles speaks though, “Salazar’s grandfather? How’s that possible?”

 

“He’s obviously possessing Ben, that’s what Salazar wanted Ben for, his grandfather’s host.”

 

“So now we’re dealing with two?” Faith asked scared.

 

"Yeah, and what’s more problematic, Solomon’s ten times worse than Salazar.”

 

Everyone’s eyes filled with fear at that, Bedlam continues the video, they watch shocked as the minions burst through the door, they gasp as Salazar slits Hollands throat, they’re disgusted and angry as Solomon rapes Lilah, they feel more terror & horror as they witnessed the employee’s slaughtered, they looked on numb as the Wolfram & Hart vaults were emptied. The video ends as they leave the building in flames with the fire fighters & police turning up.

 

Lindsey looks physically sick, “Lilah may have been a bitch, but she didn’t deserve that. None of them did."

 

"Solomon just raped her.” Joyce said feeling sick herself.

 

“It’s sicker & eviler than you think, The Serpent Family aren’t big on rape, Solomon only did that to break Ben mentally.”

 

“Oh poor Ben, we have to save him.” Fred added.

 

“Yeah, we do.” Kate said her voice full of determination.

 

“We will, Salazar & Solomon are going down.” Sirrus adds with his own determination.

 

Xander not really thinking before speaking, decides to open his mouth.

 

“Hang on, I get possessed and the demon attempts to rape Buffy, I’m in trouble, yet Ben gets possessed and Solomon rapes someone, and he’s the victim?” He asked in disbelief.

 

Everyone turns to glare at him, “Trust you to make this all about you, you’re a complete wanker Harris, someone’s been raped and you’re complaining that we need to help Ben by getting that psychopath out of him, when you’re in trouble?” Spike growled out he had a look of disgust on his face.

 

“No! I’m just saying, I got in trouble & he won’t, why?”

 

Hornet scoffs, “Shows you weren’t listening before, you were possessed by a demonic hyena spirit and said demonic spirit went off your thoughts & fantasies. Ben on the other hands been possessed by Solomon, who’s not an animal spirit, but the spirit of an evil human king, and he knows right from wrong, he raped her to mentally damage Ben. He wasn’t going off his thoughts or fantasies.”

 

“OK I’m sorry, I realise how my ignorance made me sound just then.” He said apologetically.

 

“Yeah like a right massive wanker, but you don’t need any help in that department do you?” Hornet responds sarcastically.

 

“No I guess I don’t.”

 

Wesley heard something that he needed verified, “Did you say Solomon’s a king?”

 

“Yeah as explained before they’re royalty, King Solomon Serpent, King Stygian Serpent, and now King Salazar Serpent. There were more Kings & Queens in The Serpent Family in the past, but these three are the main one’s at the moment.”

 

“Why these three? I mean I understand why Salazar & Solomon, because we’re dealing with them, but why Stygian?” Anne asked curiously.

 

“Because Stygian just disappeared one day, no one knows where, even Salazar’s been looking for him.”

 

“So what you’re saying is if they find him we could be dealing with three of them?” Cordelia asked shocked.

 

“Yeah, if he finds him that is, Stygian disappeared 5 years ago, and no ones found him yet.”

 

“We need to prepare for the moment they find him, I’m not saying they will find him, but we can’t take the chance.” Giles said matter-of-factly.

 

Everyone nodded in agreement, Bedlam decided to inform them on something else. “It actually helps us that Solomon’s only possessing Ben.”

 

“Why’s that?” Lawson asked curiously.

 

“Because with him not being in his own body he’s not at full power.”

 

“That certainly does work in our favour.” Wesley responds.

 

“Yeah it does, but don’t underestimate him because of it. Just because he’s not at full strength doesn’t mean he’s weak.” Arkillius adds on matter-of-factly.

 

They nod their understanding, then Bedlam spoke up again.

 

“I think its time to mind walk Anne, with Solomon making a reappearance we need her Spike, the more help we have the better.”

 

Anne nods, “Yeah you’re right, I hope we find him, I really miss him.”

 

“Don’t worry, we’ll sort it out. Right, I need you to sit down and cross your legs, OK?”

 

She nods again and does just that, after a couple of minutes Bedlam copies her action by sitting opposite her with his legs crossed. He then takes her hands. “I need you to close your eyes, then the mind walk can begin.” She takes a deep breath and closes her eyes, Bedlam closes his eyes as well.

 

******

 

Anne’s Mind

 

When they both open their eyes, they found themselves in Revello drive, Spike was on the couch, with a heavily pregnant Buffy with him.

 

“This was what I’d fantasise about what would happen after Spike came for me, that we’d move in together, and have a family, but that’s not a fantasy anymore, Spike can get me pregnant...for real.”

 

“Yeah he can, and I’m sorry, if I knew about you I would’ve got you out of Finn’s head sooner."

 

“It’s not your fault, I’m just glad I’m free, and I get to do the thing I wished I chose the first time. Be with Spike.”

 

A child who looked about 5 ran into the room, and went to the Buffy & Spike on the couch. “Mommy! Daddy!” Bedlam & Anne watched on.

 

“Hey half pint, how’s my little princess?” Mind Spike asked.

 

“I’m good daddy.”

 

"Annie sweetie? You’re supposed to be in bed.” Mind Buffy said.

 

“I know Mommy, but I had a bad dream. When’s Uncle Hornet & Uncle Bedlam coming?”

 

“Tomorrow you know that, and don’t worry about the dream, nothings gonna hurt you, Mommy & Daddy won’t let it, okay?”

 

Annie nods and the scene changes, they were in the magic box, Anne broke the silence. “I don’t understand, how could my imaginary daughter know you & Hornet? I only met you yesterday myself.”

 

When Bedlam responds his voice is full of amazement, “That wasn’t imaginary, we somehow got a glimpse of what will happen.”

 

Anne gasps, “You mean my future? How?”

 

“Yeah, and I don’t know myself, Its maybe because your future obviously involves me & Hornet somehow. That means we work together again after Salazar’s defeated.”

 

“What other enemies could be bad enough for us to team up again?” she asked worriedly."

 

“Hundreds of them, but I hope you never have to cross them.”

 

“OK that’s bad.” She frowns, “Does that mean the prophecised child is mine & Spike’s?"

 

“No, yours was a daughter, it requires a son.”

 

“Oh OK, but that raises another question.”

 

“What’s that?”

 

“If that was a vision from my future, where was everyone else? I mean the only people we saw or heard mentioned, was me, Spike, you & Hornet, no one else, meaning we don’t actually know who survived the battle with Salazar & Solomon.”

 

Bedlam’s eyes widen at that, “You’re right we don’t, and I have a feeling that was intentional. We saw just enough to know that In what I’m guessing is 6 years time, that we cross paths again, although we could have took you & your Spike to an alternate Sunnydale, and that’s the reason no one else is here. But we won’t know till it happens.”

 

"Good, I hope that’s the reason. What are we doing here anyway?” She asked looking round the still empty magic box.

 

“I don’t have the faintest idea, I was stood waiting expecting someone to appear, but it’s still just us.” Just then the basement door opened, and Spike came out into the shop, then Giles entered from the training room door.

 

“Spike? I should hope you aren’t stealing my stock again?” Mind Giles asked with a sigh.

 

“Of course not Rupes, what do you take me for?” Mind Spike responds innocently.

 

“Do you really expect me to answer that?”

 

He shrugs, “Probably not.”

 

Anne speaks up, “I remember this, it’s one of Mine & Buffy’s memories, we’re about to enter the room.”

 

As if on cue Buffy enters from the training room, “Spike? What are you doing here?”

 

Spike’s eyes lit up as she entered the room, “Hi Buffy, I’m not doing anything wrong, I was just in the area and decided to drop in.”

 

Bedlam watches the seen intently, “How long ago was this?”

 

“3 weeks ago, way before Salazar became an issue.”

 

“He was in love with you then.”

 

Her eyes widen with shock, “He was?”

 

“Yeah it’s pretty fucking obvious, only I forgot you used to be a dirty bigot thinking only humans can love, so you wouldn’t have noticed what was right in front of your face would you?”

 

She looked ashamed at that, “No, I wouldn’t have, or if I did I would have pretended not to. What makes it worse I was in love with him back then too, but I was too scared to date him.”

 

“Well at least you’ve grown up, I mean if someone told me who I could & couldn’t date I’d break their legs.”

 

Her eyes widen in surprise, “No one ever told you not to date someone?”

 

He snorts, “Obviously not, but then again Sirrus never treated me like an object who can’t think for myself, and D.U.S.T. are my family. Sirrus took me & my siblings in when our parents got murdered, Hornet & Bedlam are my brothers, it doesn’t matter that we’re not blood related we’re still brothers, and not once have they stuck their noses in my love life.”

 

“Your parents? Oh My God! I’m so sorry for your loss. Did you get whatever was responsible?”

 

“No, we never did, it was a witch who went into hiding afterwards, it affected Sirrus as well, they were his best friends, that’s why he took us in after it happened.”

 

“Oh god, no wonder you started hunting witches.”

 

“Yeah that’s one of the main reasons, you see other monster hunters think because witches are mostly human that they can’t be nearly as bad as demons.” He looks pointedly at her.

 

“What? I’ve stopped witches in the past.” She said offended.

 

“Yeah so you know how dangerous they are, yet you let your best friend become one without guidance? And don’t give me that bollocks how you were being a good friend, real friends would have made her get help. There’s nothing here let’s go.”

 

He stormed towards the door to leave, Anne’s close behind thinking over what he said.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

They were all waiting for Bedlam & Anne to finish, Giles breaks the silence. “How long do you think they’ll be?” He asked curiously.

 

“Don’t know, her Spike could be anywhere in her noggin.” Hornet responds with a shrug.

 

“I don’t see why we need another Spike! We can defeat Salazar by ourselves.” Riley interrupts angrily.

 

Hornet scoffs, “What? like the bang up job you bunch usually pull off?”

 

“What’s that supposed to mean?” Xander asked angrily.

 

“Exactly what it sounds like, I mean most of the apocalypse’s you’ve faced you sodding started yourselves.”

 

“No We Didn’t!!” Xander snapped angrily.

 

He raises an eyebrow, “One, you wished Salazar here, and now Solomon’s with him. Two, Buffy going into The Masters lair freed him. Three, Angelus, which again Buffy freed, Angel's mainly at fault there though. Four, You all let the sodding mayor ascend, he could have been easily killed when he was human, something they did in Angelus’s world. Five, with believing the initiative were the good guys, that resulted in Adam being created and getting loose, which resulted in more people dying. Six, with how bad Willow was with her magic control how long do you think it would have been before you had to stop her? You’ve all actively done this shit and not once did you think ‘Oh maybe we’re the problem’ not sodding once?”

 

Everyone’s eyes widen at that, but Xander didn’t want to accept it.

 

“Wait, What about Lindsey, Ethan & Spike they were all evil?” He said randomly in his defence.

 

“Yeah they were, so they meant to do evil stuff, what was your excuse? You & Finn like to constantly point out Spike’s evil, Buffy used to be bad at it as well, ‘He’s a killer!’ and shit like that. I have to ask....how many innocents do you think you’ve all killed? And no I don’t just mean innocent demons, but when Angelus got loose Buffy didn’t actually decide to finish him until Jenny died, what about everyone else he killed? Or did you all conveniently forget about them?”

 

Everyone seemed to pale at his words, “I didn’t kill anyone on purpose!” Xander exclaims feeling sick.

 

Buffy had tears in her eyes, “I didn’t think.”

 

“I’m just pointing out the hypocrisy in your actions, you constantly had a dig at Spike for being a killer and not caring about people from hundreds of years ago, yet there’s you lot who seem to forget about people you got killed a couple of years ago! Or if you do remember there’s always a convenient excuse lined up, Spike killed to feed so he could stay alive, you on the other hand got people killed out of ignorance, bigotry & plane stupidity. Which out of those two reasons, do you think D.U.S.T. are more likely to get involved over?”

 

Buffy looks mortified and precedes to cuddle against Spike’s side on the couch. “You would have got involved over us not Spike feeding himself. You’re right again, Angelus killed other people but it didn’t actually hit me until Jenny died, I know that doesn’t make it sound any better, but that’s all I’ve got.”

 

“That’s because Jenny was a member of your group, the other victims didn’t have names or faces for you, so you could pretend they weren’t real, only when Angelus killed Jenny that made it real for you didn’t it? She was someone you saw a lot, then she was gone.” Sirrus commented his voice held an understanding, and that made Buffy openly sob, and Spike to hold her.

 

“Yeah...how did you know?”

 

“You’re not the first person we’ve met who was like that, and no I don’t mean just other Buffy’s. that’s why people can’t join D.U.S.T. until they’re 18, you have to understand what you’re getting yourself into, and you have to make the hard decisions. Up to now that’s exactly what you’ve been avoiding.”

 

“What do you mean? she’s making the hard decisions.” Giles asked confused.

 

“No she isn’t. You see the real hard decision with this world’s Angelus would’ve been to just kill him, but because Buffy was living in a fantasy she didn’t until it was nearly too late, and people died due to her decision. We had a member of D.U.S.T., The first time he met an Angel he staked him, mainly due to the cursed soul. You see he couldn’t leave the world to Angelus’s mercy, and he knew he’d eventually lose his soul and kill people. If he didn’t stake him, and Angelus got free, he’d carry those deaths on his conscience. That’s the sort of thing I mean by hard decisions.” He sounded sad when talking about the D.U.S.T. member. Something everyone wondered about.

 

Buffy’s eyes widened with understanding, “You’re right, I never actually did the hard decisions, not unless there was no other way, but that just shows You’re more of a hero than me. Your other team member decided to stake Angel knowing when he left Angelus would’ve eventually got free, and I couldn’t bring myself to kill him when he was actively killing people.”

 

“Never said you weren’t a hero, but by the time Salazar’s defeated, you might actually know what that means."

 

She nods but Giles has a question, “Sorry to be intrusive, but you sounded sad mentioning your team member, why is that?”

 

“Because he sacrificed himself to save an earth, it was over 2 years ago, anyone could have done it, but he had to be the hero he wouldn’t let anyone else die, the people of that earth built a statue in his honour.”

 

“Damn, Sorry for your loss.” Faith said sincerely.

 

“Thank you, he died a hero.”

 

“I have a question.” Andrew blurted out.

 

“What’s that?” Arkillius responds.

 

“Why didn’t the alarm sound earlier? To warn us about Salazar attacking Wolfram & Hart?” He asked curiously.

 

“Because Wolfram & Hart don’t like us, they have spells in place keeping us from spying on them, the only reason we could look in afterwards is because there was no one keeping the spells up & running.”

 

“Oh that explains it, sorry I was just confused as to why it rang the other times but not that one.”

 

“No need to apologise, I would’ve asked the same if I was in your shoes.”

 

“How much longer do you think Bedlam & Anne are going to be?” Dawn asked curiously.

 

“God knows, they have to look through her head, and being as she’s Buffy as well, that means she has most of her memories.”

 

Buffy’s eyes widened at that, “That means they can see my dreams as well?”

 

“Yeah, if they stumble across them why?”

 

She blushes deeply and glances at Spike, “Umm...because they’re private.”

 

Hornet smirks, “So you’ve had naughty dreams about Spike have you?”

 

She hides her face in Spike’s shoulder, “Maybe.” She said her voice muffled.

 

Sirrus, Angel, Dawn, Anya, Darla, Cordelia, Joyce, Kate & Lorne roll their eyes. Hornet, Arkillius, Angelus, Lindsey, Lawson, Faith, Ethan & Spike look amused. Giles & Wesley start cleaning their glasses. Tara, Willow & Fred just smiled at Buffy’s reaction. Doyle, Gunn, Clem, Jonathan & Oz looked unfazed. Andrew was openly staring at Spike with worshipful eyes. And of course Xander & Riley looked jealous.

 

 ******

 

Anne’s Mind

 

They were both walking through Restfield Cemetery on the way to Spike’s crypt.

 

“Only memories! That’s all we’ve come across, and I’ve got to tell you, Harris was a dick in everyone of them.”

 

Anne sighs, “I know but we haven’t checked Spike’s crypt yet, and was Xander really that bad? I can’t say I noticed anything.”

 

“Yeah he was, that dance you gave him at the bronze was a bit much, I nearly gagged at the look on his face.”

 

She grimaces, “Yeah I know, that wasn’t exactly a good idea, I only did it to make Angel jealous at the time.”

 

“You know how stupid that was don’t you?”

 

“Yes I do, trying to make Angel jealous was stupid.”

 

“I’m not talking about Angel, even though that’s bad enough, I’m talking about Harris. You turned him down at school when he asks you out, then you’re practically grinding against him on the dance floor. No sodding wonder he thinks he has a chance with you. Did you at least have the decency to tell him again after? That you’re never going to date him?”

 

She stops dead and her eyes widen.

 

“From your reaction I’m guessing not. I don’t know what you were thinking anyway, I mean Buffy told us after his rape attempt she wouldn’t touch him. Obviously that was a lie.”

 

She turns pale, “I just wasn’t thinking, and I was pissed that everyone just expected me to be normal after I just died and got brought back.”

 

“Gotta ask was there a time you was thinking before acting? Because from your memories it doesn’t seem like it. I mean the only time you looked happy was under Willow’s spell, where you happened to be engaged to Spike, surely that had to tell you something?”

 

She looked hurt at his first question, but by the last one she looked sad. “I was heart broken when it ended, I cried myself to sleep that night. It told me what I knew from the start, Spike was the one I wanted, but after Spike’s reaction I acted out too.”

 

He snorts, “You do remember that I’ve just witnessed that memory? Spike was waiting for your reaction first, and the moment you acted disgusted he followed suit.”

 

Buffy’s eyes widened in shock, “Are you sure?” He nods, “Great I could have been with him from that moment, but I don’t know how I could have got round everyone’s questions.”

 

“It’s not that difficult, I’ve met a Buffy & Spike who pretended to still be under the spell, it lasted about 3 months before people started clicking on, but by that point they accepted it, even that Xander did he was one of the decent ones I’ve met.”

 

“Seriously? It was that simple? God! Why didn’t I think of that?” ‘I can’t believe I never thought of that! Me & Spike could have already been together. Huh, Bedlam obviously gets along with that Xander, he didn’t call him by his surname, wonder what went different? I’ll ask later.’

 

“Sometimes you don’t think about the solution at the time, only days or weeks later and feel like kicking yourself.”

 

“Yeah you’re right.”

 

“I mean the rest of your group are pretty braindead, you and Spike had a similar look of sadness when the spell ended, only lasted a second though, but you would think with some of you taking a psychology course you’d be able to spot something like that. And don’t get me started on the whole 'It was a spell' thing, I knew you both loved each other, it was obvious.”

 

"You did? How? No one else knew I loved him back then.”

 

“Because unlike you lot, I have knowledge on magic. Willow told you to ‘Marry Spike’ not ‘Love him’ and with it being a my will be done spell, you would have done exactly as she asked. Meaning you two already loved each other before the spell.”

 

“It was that obvious? Why didn’t anyone else say anything?”

 

“One of two reasons. One, they know nothing about magic, and if that’s the case they shouldn’t be playing with it. Or two, they knew but with how much they liked to control your life they decided not to say. Which one do you think it is?”

 

“With Giles the second one, probably the second one with Willow too. Xander though definitely the first, and Anya wouldn’t have said anything because we never listened to her.”

 

“Well that was an idiotic thing to do, Anya knows more than any of you. Do you know why most monster hunter groups have monsters in them?”

 

“No I don’t, what’s the reason?” She asked curiously.

 

“So they can talk to other demons or creatures, you can’t speak any demon languages, therefore you don’t know the demon you’re killing is harmful or not. We can speak multiple languages because we have too, I mean imagine the police questioning you and they don’t speak a word of English, how are you supposed to understand it?”

 

“I never thought of it like that before, that explains a lot though. Most demons didn’t looked surprised to see me & Spike patrolling together.”

 

“No they wouldn’t.” They carried on walking only to stumble across another of her memories, this one was her encounter with Dracula.

 

“That’s when I met Dracula.”

 

“That’s not Dracula."

 

“What? That’s who he said he was.” She said confused.

 

“Yeah well it’s not him, I’ve met this realities Dracula, and he doesn’t dress like that, this guys an imposter whose seen one too many movies.”

 

Xander & Willow turned up and found Buffy with the fake Dracula, the scene played out like before, and he turned into a bat and flew away.

 

“Why can he do that then?”

 

“That’s not that impressive, many vampires I’ve met can do that, even Spike could if he learnt, but he doesn’t like magic.”

 

“Spike could do that? Really?”

 

“Yeah, you both have abilities you haven’t accessed, Spike out of pride, and you out of stubbornness. For example did you know if you fully accepted your slayer, thrall wouldn’t work on you?”

 

She gaped at him, “WHAT? Seriously? Fake Dracula managed to thrall me and if I accepted my slayer he wouldn’t have been able to?”

 

“Yeah obviously. What’s the point in being a vampire slayer if you could be thralled? I’m a Wicharei because most magic can’t hurt me, so that makes me a perfect witch hunter, same with you if you completely accepted your slayer most vampire abilities won’t affect you.” They started walking again.

 

"OK I definitely need to learn to fully accept my slayer. Did you kill this world’s Dracula?” She asked curiously.

 

“No this world's Dracula’s one of the good guys.”

 

Her eyes widened in amazement, “He is? Wow, I definitely wasn’t expecting that.”

 

“Yeah he’s good now, he wasn’t always, he helped us stop an apocalypse, and he realised that fighting evil was more of a challenge. He eventually began to care about doing the right thing.”

 

“Wow that’s amazing.”

 

“It’s not impossible, I mean you’ve made William The Bloody fall in love with you and switch sides.”

 

She had a beaming smile, “You’re right I did. Spike’s crypts there.” She points to a crypt like 50 feet in front of them.

 

“Good let’s see if he’s there.” They approached the crypt and opened the door, only to come across a naked Spike & an equally naked Buffy riding him, Anne blushes deeply at the moans coming from inside, Bedlam closed the door again. “Let me guess another fantasy?” He asked amused.

 

“Yeah.” She replied embarrassed at the fact Bedlam saw it.

 

“Well he’s not here, let’s check somewhere else.”

 

She nods and clears her throat, “Yeah let’s do that.”

 

They start walking away, as they eventually reach the gates a voice called out.

 

“Buffy!” They both turn to see a Spike walking towards them. “Where have you been Sweetheart?”

 

“Spike? Can you see us?” She asked hopefully.

 

“Yeah, are you feeling alright love?”

 

“Long Story mate.” Bedlam responds, he fills Spike in on everything, Salazar, Glory, souls, D.U.S.T. being here, everything.

 

“Damn, so I guess I’m going by William then? I remember you telling me about Salazar in WW2, meaning I’ve got Spike’s memories.”

 

“Yeah you have Spike’s memories. We need all the help we can get, especially with Solomon being here as well."

 

“Yeah I’m in, I’m not letting Anne face this alone.”

 

She smiles at him, “I knew I could count on you.” She leans up and kisses him.

 

“OK, now we have William it’s time to go.” Bedlam interrupts the moment.

 

They both separate and nod, “You’re right let’s go.” Anne said.

 

“Yeah time to go.” William adds on.

 

They leave the cemetery, “We have to walk through a door, it’s the easiest way to leave someone’s mind.”

 

“We should go back to my house, it’s closest to William's crypt.”

 

Bedlam only chuckles in response.

 

“What’s funny?” She asked confused.

 

“Nothing much, I just think it’s stupid that you apparently didn’t know Spike loves you. He gets a place to live closest to yours, he turns up everywhere you go hoping to bump into you, it was practically screaming it.”

 

“Yeah now I think about it, it was pretty obvious.” They walk up the path to Buffy’s house and open the door, then the world went white.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

Bedlam & Anne open their eyes, William was clinging onto Anne’s shoulder, everyone was looking at them shocked. looking at the clock showed it was 5pm, they were obviously in there awhile.

 

Dawn was the first to speak, “God! He looks the same as Spike, same duster and everything.” She said amazed.

 

“Great another one, I think Spike has Buffy under thrall! She didn’t trust him days ago and now she suddenly loves him.” Riley stated angrily.

 

Hornet scoffs, “Of course she trusted him, you lot just didn’t think she did.”

 

“What’s that mean?”

 

“Come off it, she worked with him to stop Angelus ending the world, and he’s had an invite to her house since the truce. That was before he had the chip, not to mention he still has an invite to her old campus dorm room, if she didn’t trust him she would’ve disinvited him.”

 

Xander seems angry at the knowledge, “Why didn’t you disinvite him? Especially after he betrayed us to Adam?” Xander asked Buffy clearly unhappy.

 

Bedlam interrupts, “Don’t see how that’s your business Harris. Its not your house, and while we’re on the subject, he couldn’t have betrayed you if you never trusted him to begin with.”

 

Xander looks surprised for a moment, “But he betrayed Buffy, she trusted him.” He replied smugly, thinking he outsmarted them.

 

He raises an eyebrow, “I’ve seen Buffy’s memories of that time, you all treated him like a prisoner not someone who came to you for help, and Buffy never once let Spike know she trusted him, then you all had the decency to look shocked when he went to the enemy, it’s not like you were showing him the 5 star treatment was it?”

 

Buffy, Willow, Giles & Anne looked ashamed at that. Xander was trying to think of a response, obviously that made him speechless.

 

Riley interrupts, “He’s a vampire! He doesn’t deserve nice treatment!”

 

“So you think because he’s a different species you could treat him like shit? That’s racist & speciesist. By your logic if you turned up to my house looking for help I could treat you badly? I’m a different species to you after all.”

 

“No! I’m human!” Riley exclaims shocked.

 

He shrugs, “So was Hitler, Stalin, Pol Pot, Jack The Ripper & Ted Bundy, it didn’t stop them being evil. Hell Salazar’s human & Solomon was when he was alive, are you telling me if any of them come to you for help you would’ve rolled out the red carpet?”

 

Everyone’s eyes widen at that, Xander & Riley were both speechless. Bedlam continued with his rant.

 

“Do you know what makes me laugh about you lot? The bullshit you spout! Hell Finn was in the military! You were experimenting on demons for weapons, you obviously knew evil humans existed, or what were the sodding weapons for! Other countries armies who happened to be HUMAN!!! Then you have the rest of you.” He laughs humourlessly, “Before you knew the supernatural existed, the second someone got raped you would have called the rapist sick & evil, then the second you know demons existed you miraculously all forgot that! Now ‘Humans are good because they have souls.’ the same souls you all probably didn’t believe existed back when you were normal. Can you answer me honestly? How many of you believed souls even existed before you knew about the supernatural? How many of you actually know what souls even look like?”

 

Everyone was speechless at that, Buffy finally responded, “You’re right again, before I knew about the supernatural I never believed souls were real, hell I still didn’t know they were real until you confirmed it, I was going off what I was told.”

 

Xander looked shocked, “How can you say that Buffy? When Angel lost his soul he killed people!”

 

“I know! But we only went off what Jenny and Angel told us happened! I’ve still never seen a soul! We put so much belief in them, and we didn’t & still don’t know what they look like! All we know from Sirrus is that they’re supposed to be white, but dark souls are black.”

 

They all looked thoughtful at that, but Bedlam interrupts again.

 

“It’s fascinating how hypocritical you all actually are. You all constantly said all demons were evil and believed that, because you’d never ‘seen a good one’. Then on the other hand you believe souls are all powerful and special when you’ve never seen one of those either!”

 

“Why did you say it like that? That we’ve never seen a good demon like we’re stupid.” Riley asked angrily.

 

He looks at him in disbelief, “Look Around You! There’s multiple good demons in this very room! The main reason you’ve never seen one before is because you wasn’t actually looking for one! And if you did see one you wouldn’t have believed it! You would’ve thought they were playing a trick on you! So the good demons were obviously avoiding you! You were all kill first and ask questions later! Sunnydale’s full of friendly demons! Did you know that male slayers are welcomed by the good demons? Because they didn’t believe the bullshit the council said? I mean watch this.” Bedlam waves his hand over the screen, then some footage started playing.

 

******

 

Alternate Reality, Sunnydale, California – Footage – Start

 

William, Wallace & Winston were all sitting at the magic box table, they appear to be playing poker.

 

Buffy entered the shop and sat in William’s lap, “Hi honey, whatcha doing?”

 

“Not much kitten, just teaching these two how to play.” He finishes with a smirk as the other two snort.

 

“You wish bleach boy.” Wallace responds.

 

“Full of shit like always Willy?” Winston replied.

 

“Of course not, I’m just being honest.” He replied innocently.

 

“Yeah Yeah. Where’s my missus?” He waves his hand dismissively, then questions Buffy.

 

Buffy laughs at their antics then responds, “Faith’s fine she’s at the demon homeless shelter, they’ve been having trouble with some evil ones.”

 

“And I wasn’t invited? I swear you bints do that on purpose, don’t like the male slayers showing you up.”

 

She snorts, “You wish, we were good enough to get your three’s attention.”

 

Giles walks in at that, “Must you six act like children when together?”

 

“Faith and Nikki aren’t here Rupes.” Wallace responds.

 

He sighs, “Be that as it may, you’re all like toddlers when together, I thought you may have grown up, being married and all, you boys are over a hundred.”

 

“But Giiilllles, Williams my husband, we love each other.” Buffy whined.

 

“Yes, and I’m married to Jenny & Merrick's married to Joyce but you don’t see us acting like five year olds.”

 

“What can I say Rupes? Young love.” William responds after putting his chin on Buffy’s shoulder.

 

He rolls his eyes, “You & your brothers are older than me.”

 

Before they could respond the door opens and Faith & Clem come in.

 

Faith walks over to Winston, “Hey baby, hope you didn’t have too much fun without me?”

 

“I should be saying that to you. Not one sodding invite to find the demon?”

 

She rolls her eyes, “Please, I didn’t even find the demon.”

 

Clem waves at them, “Hey Guys, you coming to Willie’s tonight?”

 

“If the ladies are fine with it yes.” William responds.

 

“Why wouldn’t we be fine with it? We’re coming.” Buffy said cheekily.

 

William, Wallace & Winston all whined in unison “Againnn?”

 

“Yeah suck it up.” Faith says with a smirk.

 

Giles sighs, “The earth is definitely doomed.” He then walks into his office.

 

“That’s Will’s fault.” Wallace said after Giles closed his office door.

 

“Oi! It was not.” William responds with mock offence.

 

The door opened again and a Fyarl walked in. They all turned to acknowledge him.

 

“Hey Steve.” They all said in unison. He waves at them and goes to buy something.

 

Buffy decides to inform Giles he’s here. “Giles! Steve’s here!”

 

Giles walks out the office, “Thank you for informing me Buffy.” He approaches the Fyarl, “What can I get you Steve?”

 

He puts something on the counter with a growl, “This, My wife needs it, she’s pregnant.” William translated.

 

“Ah I see, congratulations.”

 

Buffy lays back against William’s chest, “It’s amazing you know? If we never met you we wouldn’t have met the good demons in Sunnydale, all the help they’ve gave us over the years, all the new friends we’ve made.”

 

“Yeah, if Winston didn’t help me when I first got to Sunnydale who knows where I would’ve ended up?” Faith added on.

 

“I know.” She turns to look at William, “I’m glad you came to Sunnydale, I love you so much.”

 

He smiles at her, “I love you too kitten.”

 

Footage – End

 

******

 

They were all sat in silence when the footage ended, Riley broke the silence.

 

“Why aren’t I there?” He asked suspiciously.

 

“Because that Buffy’s been with William since the age of 16, and no he waited for her to turn 18 before taking her virginity.” Bedlam responds.

 

“How’s Merrick still alive? He died In L.A. here.” Buffy asked shocked.

 

“We don’t actually know, something different happened there and it resulted in Merrick surviving.” Sirrus replied with a shrug.

 

“And Jenny?” Giles asked sadly.

 

“Well since William, Wallace & Winston wouldn’t let Angel sniff round Buffy, Angelus never got released, it also helped that Buffy was hero worshiping William.”

 

“Why didn’t they allow that Angel near her?” Wesley asked curiously.

 

“Because the three of them met us before and knew the truth about souls.” Arkillius filled in.

 

Faith looked confused, “Hang on, if Lawson’s meant to be my perfect mate why am I with Winston in that world?”

 

“Because that’s one of the realities where Lawson wasn’t turned.”

 

Lawson’s eyes widen at that, “What happened to me there?”

 

“You got married grew old and died an old man, we don’t know much, we mainly know that some event occurred and it stopped you getting on that sub.”

 

“And with me not knowing of the supernatural, you didn’t keep track of me.”

 

He nodded apologetically, “I’m sorry.”

 

“No, it’s fine at least I lived a good life there.”

 

"They work with demons there?” Xander asked shocked.

 

“Yeah all of them including that world’s you.”

 

“Why’s that Xander so different?” Cordelia asked curiously.

 

“Well he did want Buffy at the beginning, but after it became clear she wanted William, and she made it clear she wasn’t interested he accepted it. He, William, Wallace & Winston are good friends there.”

 

“What? I made it clear I didn’t want Xander.” Buffy responds.

 

Bedlam scoffs, “You are aware I’ve seen your memories?”

 

Buffy looked confused, Anne looked embarrassed and explained, “He saw the memory from the bronze.” This made Buffy’s eyes widen.

 

“Yeah, I saw it alright, what the hell were you thinking? You turned him down once then you go and do that? And then let him think he’s got a chance after?”

 

“I never let him think he had a chance.” She said offended.

 

“But you never told him he didn’t did you?”

 

Buffy’s eyes widened, “Oh My God! No I didn’t.”

 

“You were being a typical woman, expecting men to be mind readers.”

 

“What happened at the bronze?” Spike asked suspiciously. William looked suspicious himself.

 

“Nothing baby it was just a dance, I was trying to make Angel jealous at the time, and I’d just died and come back and everyone was expecting me to be normal.” Buffy responds.

 

Spike looked confused, “What’s a dance got to do with it?”

 

Bedlam snorts, “Believe me mate, I’ve seen porn movies with less contact.”

 

His words caused Buffy & Anne to flinch and Spike & William to freeze.

 

“It was a mistake it didn’t mean anything.” Buffy said.

 

“Never said it did, but we don’t appreciate being lied to. You told us that you wouldn’t touch him after what he said while possessed, but then we find out you did.”

 

“I’m sorry I forgot about it.”

 

“I know Anne confirmed that when we ended up in the memory.”

 

Spike & William relaxed, Buffy & Anne cuddled up to them, and Xander looked hurt at Buffy’s words.

 

“What do you mean it was a mistake? And you don’t remember?”

 

“Xander I remember now and I remember apologising after it happened. So that obviously meant I didn’t mean it.”

 

“I didn’t think you were serious!”

 

“I’m sorry Buffy I wasn’t aware you apologised, but you still should have made it obvious you weren’t interested.” Bedlam informs her.

 

“I thought I did, by not dating him.”

 

Hornet chuckles, “She’s got a point mate.”

 

“Yeah ok I agree that should have made it obvious, but it should have also shown you he lives in a fantasy where real world logic doesn’t apply.”

 

“What’s that mean?” Xander snapped angrily.

 

“Seriously? You & Finn are the exact same in that regard, you both treat this like its a movie, that you’re the males and Buffy’s the love interest and she’s going to end up with you no matter what, then we come here explain how the world actually works and that she belongs with Spike, you two won’t accept it, but If we told one of you two she was meant to be with you, you would’ve believed it instantly wouldn’t you? So tell me how you’re both not living in a fantasy?”

 

Xander & Riley both had deer caught in headlight expressions, everyone else looked shocked, Bedlam continued on.

 

“You both need to wake up and accept what we’re up against, Salazar & Solomon aren’t people to be messed with, you saw what happened at Wolfram & Hart, Solomon raped that poor girl just to mentally damage Ben, they’re EVIL, and the more you refuse to acknowledge that the more offended they get, and the more damage they cause.”

 

Everyone understood that even Xander, but Riley still looked like he was avoiding the truth. Cordelia spoke up though.

 

“Why do they get offended? I get those psychopaths are evil but they shouldn’t care what idiots like Harris & Finn think.”

 

Sirrus spoke up, “Because you have to understand, Salazar & Solomon are from a multiverse where people shit themselves in fear at the sight of a member of The Serpent Family, they’ve wiped out other hell-gods besides Glory, made the slayers in their multiverse extinct, faced Varron the first vampire in all creation and survived. Fought D.U.S.T. multiple times, went to hell for revenge when Lucifer took Salazar’s mother, fought actual Angels from Heaven and won, stopped an alien empire from conquering their earth and more, then they come here and Finn & Harris think they’re not dangerous, how do you expect them to react?”

 

“They’ve fought Lucifer??” Buffy said shocked.

 

“We’ve fought Lucifer it’s not that big of a deal.” Hornet shrugs.

 

“You have?” Wesley asked intrigued.

 

“Yeah, multiple heroes have, we even have a Lucifer that joined D.U.S.T.”

 

“Why would a Lucifer join D.U.S.T.? They're evil.” Xander asked.

 

Hornet, Sirrus, Arkillius & Bedlam sighed at that, Anne spoke up.

 

“Not all Lucifer’s are evil are they? Like some Dracula’s aren’t?”

 

“What do you mean? Dracula was evil we fought him!” Riley stated.

 

“Apparently we didn’t.”

 

“What do you mean?” Buffy asked confused.

 

Bedlam interrupts, “I saw that memory as well, that ponce wasn’t Dracula, like I told Anne, we’ve met the Dracula from this reality, and he doesn’t wear capes or the stuff like in the movies, he’s also a good guy here. Did you really think he’d be that easy to beat if he was the real Dracula?”

 

“Oh I thought it was him.” Buffy said.

 

“I went to Spike and he said he’s met him.” Riley said accusingly.

 

“I have you wanker, in my defence when you came for the information you only told me Drac was in town. You never told me he was dressed all poncey, if you did I could have told you it wasn’t him.”

 

“You bragged about how he owed you eleven pounds or something like that, I think you’re lying.”

 

Hornet sighs, “You still bitching about that 11quid?”

 

“He owes me money, I was just stating a fact.”

 

“I know he does, but on the subject of owing people money, do you want to talk about the money I’ve given you in the past?” Spike’s mouth snaps shut, “Didn’t think so.” He said with a chuckle.

 

“OK so I never fought the real Dracula. what’s this about Salazar fighting real angels?” Buffy asked intrigued with the prospect of knowing about them.

 

“Don’t be too impressed, Sam & Dean were spot on about one thing. Angels are dicks, well.....most of them.”

 

“Who are Sam & Dean?” Gunn asked confused.

 

“Sam & Dean Winchester, monster hunters from another multiverse, they’re living legends, even impressed us with some of the stuff they’ve killed.” Arkillius responds.

 

“Okay, I’m learning a lot of new stuff, Did you say Aliens are real?” Willow asked amazed.

 

“Of course, did you think you were the only people in this universe, there’s life on other planets.” Bedlam informs them.

 

“Wow, I had no idea.” Buffy’s voice is full of amazement.

 

“I have to ask, what other stuff is Salazar capable of? I have a feeling you’re protecting us from something.” Giles asked curiously.

 

Sirrus spoke up, “Because we are, you have no idea how fucked up that family is, Salazar as a 2 year old bashed another 2 year olds brains in....and his family encouraged him by cheering him on. At 3 he killed someone’s dog....and again his family found it funny. At 4 he learnt magic....and celebrated by killing a classroom full of other children....by burning them alive, you see the Serpents are extremely intelligent even as children. At 5 Solomon locked him in a room with a lion to get over his fear of them. At 6 Salazar knew multiple other languages.....and how to slowly kill someone so they wouldn’t bleed out too quick. At 7 his father taught him how.....to cut someone’s eyes out, severe their vocal cords, shatter their eardrums & paralyse them from the neck down.....and they would still be alive afterwards. At 8 he learnt to torture vampires so they scream for help. At 9 Solomon & his father would beat him black and blue.....so he could handle pain in the future when fighting enemies.”

 

They all looked sick to their stomachs, they could tell he was struggling to tell them the rest, but before they could speak Sirrus continued.

 

“At 10 he knew multiple fighting styles. At 11 he talked a young boy into killing himself. At 12 he started his first apocalypse. At 13 he killed his first slayer. At 14 he poisoned an entire town killing over 300,000 people. At 15 we tried to help him and he retaliated by....killing one of us.”

 

Everyone gasped at that, they all looked pale & sick at the same time, Riley broke the silence.

 

“So why haven’t you killed him yet?” He asked suspiciously.

 

“Don’t you think we haven’t fucking tried? The bastard won’t die! In my anger I killed Solomon! But we couldn’t figure out how to kill that little bastard, and believe me we’ve tried multiple times but the wanker shrugs everything off we throw at him! Bombs, poisons, guns, we’ve tried it all and nothing! We’ll get revenge for our team mate I tell you now! It could take 10 million years he’s dying at one of our sodding hands!”

 

Everyone was looking at him wide eyed, it’s the first time they’ve seen him this angry, but Bedlam, Hornet & Arkillius patted him on the back, they didn’t seem surprised at his outburst in fact they seemed angry themselves. Well the rest weren’t really surprised, just shocked at seeing it.

 

“He killed one of your friends? Oh My God! How have you not lost it knowing he’s so close?” Buffy asked shocked.

 

“I’m Sirrus, the leader of D.U.S.T., I’m supposed to be the calm one, I’m not supposed to let it get personal, when it becomes personal you lose control of the situation. If Benny was here that would have been a different story though.”

 

Multiple people nod at that, as they’ve let things get personal in the past.

 

“Who’s Benny?” Doyle asked curiously.

 

“The member Salazar killed, Benny’s their brother.”

 

“How come he’s not here as well?” Angel asks curiously.

 

“He was going to come, but he was needed elsewhere. The mission is what matters, Benny understands that.”

 

They nod their understanding, “I assume Benny is short for his real name?” Giles asked while writing the information down.

 

The question made Hornet, Bedlam & Arkillius burst out laughing, which made everyone else look confused.

 

Sirrus huffs, “You would’ve thought that but no, these three muppets found his stash of Ben & Jerry’s ice cream, and have been calling him Benny ever since. Then everyone else in D.U.S.T. started calling him it, I heard him called it so much that I started calling him it, it got to the point he stopped correcting everyone and just went with it himself.”

 

It was clear that multiple occupants were hiding their amusement at hearing the reason for his nickname, Wesley decided it was best to get them back on the subject at hand.

 

“I don’t mean to offend you, but how did you kill Solomon? And not Salazar?” Wesley asked cautiously.

 

“I don’t know that’s the thing, Solomon was still a challenge to kill, but I did it. Then I tried with Salazar, even the same way and I couldn’t, he just wouldn’t die.”

 

“Did he seemed surprised by this?”

 

“If he did he didn’t show it at the time why?”

 

“Because I’m wondering if this is something he’s done to himself.....or something someone else did. Because if he could make himself unable to be killed, why wouldn’t Solomon have done the same?"

 

“I never actually considered the possibility it was an outside force. It’s possible something out there’s keeping Salazar alive for something.”

 

“Do you think Salazar knows?” William asked curiously.

 

“No, it’s not his family or they would have done the same, and The Serpent Family doesn’t work well with others.”

 

“I don’t want to be the bearer of bad news, but Riley’s gone.” Fred informed them.

 

Everyone looked round to discover Riley was indeed gone, Bedlam moves over to the screen and brings up the footage showing Riley leaving.

 

“He just stormed out? What’s he muttering about?” Buffy asked angrily.

 

“About how we’re all lying, he’s still in denial.” Spike informed them.

 

“I hate to bring this up, but I don’t think he’ll come out of denial until he sees what they’re capable of with his own eyes, he keeps thinking the video footage is lying.” Oz states.

 

“I agree with Wolfey, the problem is that could get him killed.” Ethan chimes In.

 

“Well there’s nothing we can do till he accepts the truth, he’ll eventually calm down.” Bedlam said.

 

******

 

Downtown, Sunnydale, California

 

It was 6.30pm and Salazar & Solomon are walking down the street.

 

Salazar huffs, “I bet they’ve moved to a D.U.S.T. safehouse, that’s got to be why we can’t find them.”

 

“I agree and the problem with that is we can’t enter their safehouses.”

 

“We cause enough damage they’re bound to show themselves.”

 

******

 

Magic Box, Sunnydale, California

 

Riley walked out the safehouse and entered the magic box, he wasn’t very happy. ‘I can’t believe Buffy’s listening to their lies! I’m not living in a movie I’m the hero, it makes sense the damsel in distress ends up with me. Buffy and the others are the ones treating this like a movie! With other multiverse’s existing and vampires having souls! more lies! Salazar & Solomon aren’t dangerous! They’re sick & twisted and I’ll prove it. Maybe then Buffy will see me as the one she’s supposed to be with, we’ll have a family, grow old together and finally get away from this freak show of a town and the people in it.’

 

He continues through the shop and out into the street, not realizing he’s about to make the biggest mistake of his life.

 

******

 

Downtown, Sunnydale, California

 

Salazar & Solomon walked towards the magic box, they grinned as Riley walked out.

 

“Soldier Boy! Where are you and your fucked up friends hiding?” Salazar asked with a smirk.

 

Riley turned to face them, “They think you’re dangerous, I think they’re the ones in denial, and I’ll prove it by stopping you. Me and Xander wished you here, so I’ll stop you.”

 

Salazar & Solomon’s eyes widened, “So you two little retards are the reason I’m here?” Salazar said dangerously.

 

“We were trying to prove Spike wrong when he said evil humans existed, so we wished to see what one looked like. You two aren’t nothing special, just two guys with an ego, and don’t get me started on your ‘Family’ what a joke.”

 

Salazar & Solomon’s eyes turn pure black at that, “I’ll show you dangerous you little wanker!” Salazar snapped angrily, he holds his arm out.

 

Riley looked smugly, then his eyes widened in fear as he’s dragged towards Salazar and his hand wraps round his throat. “Not so cocky anymore are you boy?” He said dangerously.

 

“Don’t kill him yet Salazar, he could be the perfect message.” Solomon said with a smirk.

 

Riley’s eyes widened even further. Salazar & Solomon look at him in disgust as he proceeds to piss himself. “The big mouthed muppets in our presence for 5 minutes, and he pisses himself. What a big man you are.” Solomon says tauntingly then leans in closer, “Want to know something? You should have believed the vampire.”

 

Before Riley can beg to be let go, Solomon’s fist connects with his face making the world go black.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

The alarm ringing drew their attention to the screen, only when they looked it only showed the empty street outside the magic box, they all looked at each other in confusion.

 

Bedlam approaches the screen, “I don’t understand, what we supposed to be seeing?”

 

"Is there a way to see what happened before the alarm rang?” Sirrus asked with a thoughtful expression.

 

“Yeah give me a sec.”

 

He waves his hand in front of the screen, the footage seems to rewind and they witness the scene between Riley, Salazar & Solomon. They all watch in shock as Riley reveals that he & Xander wished him here, they watched as he stupidly insulted the entire Serpent Family, they watched as Salazar uses magic to drag Riley towards him, they hear Solomon talk about sending a message, they watched as Riley wet himself, and finally they watched as Solomon knocked Riley out, and him and Salazar teleported taking Riley with them.

 

“Bedlam take Arkillius and see if you can track them.” Sirrus commands hastily.

 

Bedlam nods & teleports out with Arkillius. “Hornet check satellite imagery see if it gives any clue of where they are.”

 

Hornet nods and goes into the other room only to return with a futuristic looking laptop, he takes a seat and opens the laptop and begins searching.

 

Sirrus begins pacing back and forth waiting to hear back from Arkillius & Bedlam.

 

******

 

Downtown, Sunnydale, California

 

Bedlam & Arkillius teleport into the street looking around, it turns out Salazar & Solomon expected this though, as multiple black SUVs came screeching round the corner.

 

“Bollocks! Time for some of our own wheels!” Arkillius takes a key out of his pocket and presses a button, a portal opens and an armoured D.U.S.T. 4×4 comes out.

 

“Bedlam! Drive!” He throws the keys to him then jumps up grabs the top of the 4×4 then slides feet first through the back seat window.

 

Bedlam after grabbing the keys copies Arkillius’s actions but into the drivers seat, he puts the key into the ignition, with a twist and a foot slammed onto the gas pedal they take off with a squeal of the tires.

 

They accelerate through the streets of Sunnydale, the black SUVs on their tail. Arkillius looks out the rear view window to see Salazar’s minions leaning out the windows with M-16s.

 

“Shit they’ve brought out the fire power!” Arkillius informs Bedlam.

 

The bullets ricocheting off the vehicle made Bedlam roll his eyes, “I see that! Do something!”

 

“With pleasure!”

 

******

 

The commotion on the screen brought the safehouse occupants attention to it, it shows an overhead view of the action.

 

“Holy Hell!” Xander exclaims. “It’s like a car chase scene out of an action movie!”

 

Everyone else was watching wide eyed, Buffy spoke up, “Do you think they need help?” Her voice was full of shock.

 

Hornet huffs, “No, those two are probably having a sodding field day, and I missed it.”

 

Sirrus rolls his eyes.

 

******

 

Arkillius presses a button and the roof opens and a Minigun rises up, he takes control of the gun.

 

They turn a corner at some speed, the 4×4 tilted onto two wheels, as it slams back down on all four they’re off again.

 

The black SUVs skidded around the corner, “Let’s have ya.” Arkillius proceeds to open fire at them.

 

He headshots one of the drivers making the SUV skid uncontrollably and flip, with the speed they were going they rolled multiple times, another SUV crashed into that one.

 

“Two for the price of one!” he exclaims with pride.

 

******

 

“Told you.” Hornet grumbled.

 

Sirrus sighs.

 

******

 

“Good shot! How’s about the rest?!” He says sarcastically.

 

“Oh stop bitching you tart! I’ll deal with them!”

 

Bedlam drifts around the next corner, “Like to see them do that!”

 

Multiple SUVs managed to drift as well, “You’re aware some of them are criminals?!” Arkillius asked.

 

“What’s that got to do with anything?!”

 

“How many do you reckon were street racers?! Of course they can drift!”

 

“Oh Balls! I didn’t think of that alright?!”

 

“Whatever I’m busy!” He open fires again, an apache helicopter appears overhead, “Where the fucks he got an apache from?!”

 

“He did raid a military base shit for brains!” He accelerates as the apache opens fire.

 

“In Sunnydale! Why the fuck would Sunnydale have an apache?!”

 

“Fuck knows this is America! You can buy guns from supermarkets! So you can probably get apaches from cereal boxes! And you’ve missed the biggest question!”

 

“What’s that?!”

 

"Where did they find some cunt who can fly one in Sunnydale?!”

 

“They have criminals from L.A. as well remember?!”

 

“Oh and I’m sure apache pilot was on their application!” He replied sarcastically.

 

They continued down the road at high speed. The apache and SUVs behind them.

 

******

 

They were all watching the screen in shock, “Where the hell did they find an apache in Sunnydale?” Cordelia asked

 

“You heard what Bedlam said.” Hornet shrugs.

 

“He obviously didn’t find it in a cereal box!” Xander snapped angrily.

 

Hornet sighs, “I know you moron that was a joke, but like he said this is America your military are pretty paranoid, the initiative should have taught you that. And try not to forget, Salazar can travel anywhere, just because the apache’s here doesn’t mean they got it from here.”

 

They’re eyes widened at that, wondering what else he might have.

 

“I’m more baffled by the fact the rest of the town seems to be empty.” Wesley states.

 

Sirrus shrugs, “Just because people in town love denial doesn’t make them stupid, after the phones stopped calling out and Military vehicles started appearing round town, they either got the hell out of town, or they’re staying in their homes.”

 

******

 

“Are you going to take that bloody apache down?!”

 

“Yeah you might have to swerve first!"

 

“Why the hell....” He trails off as the warning alarm went off, “He’s about to shoot rockets at us isn’t he?!"

 

“Yep! Swerve!”

 

He swerves out the way as multiple rockets hit the ground. "Here use this!” he slides something into the backseat.

 

Arkillius ducks back into the 4×4 then re-emerges with a Heat-seeking rocket launcher.

 

*******

 

"Why do you have heat-seekers?” Xander asked shocked.

 

Hornet raises an eyebrow, “You forgot we’re the supernatural government? Of course we have our own military weapons and vehicles.”

 

“Why haven’t you used them yet?”

 

He shrugs, “We usually wait for someone to piss us off first, or we use them in retaliation.”

 

“Meaning you don’t use them unless they’re needed?” Lawson asked.

 

“Yeah exactly.”

 

******

 

He aims the Heat-seeker after the beeps became continuous he fires. The rocket fly’s out of the launcher and heads towards the apache, it tries to fly out the way but its a little too late as the rocket hits the back propeller, which causes the apache to spin out of control.

 

“Bedlam! Floor it I don’t fancy that landing on us!”

 

He does just that and they soon reach top speed, the apache’s still spinning out of control, until it collides with the ground in an explosion, some of the SUVs are caught in the explosion, but some swerve round the wreckage and continue on after them.

 

“These guys are really starting to piss me off!!!” He grabs the Minigun again and opens fire.

 

“Hold on tight!” He commands as they drift around another corner the speed has them nearly collide with several parked cars.

 

“Where we going?!” Arkillius asked as they passed the now leaving Sunnydale sign.

 

“Nowhere just thought it was time for some off-roading!” he turns off the road and onto the desert.

 

******

 

“Why don’t they just come back here?” Fred asked confused.

 

“Because they’ll have to bring the 4×4 and they can’t risk opening a portal big enough to bring it here, not with Salazar’s minions on their tail.” Sirrus responds.

 

Hornet speaks up, “There’s only 5 SUVs left so it won’t take long.” He smirks, “Bet you a tenner Ark shows off with the last one.” He says to Sirrus.

 

“I might as well give it you now, because I know full well he will.” He says with a sigh.

 

******

 

He takes out another two SUVs, “3 left! Get close to the last one!”

 

He sighs, “Here we go. You’re about to pull off some stupid stunt aren’t you?!”

 

“No, I’m about to pull off some pure skill!”

 

He sighs again, “Typical.”

 

Arkillius takes out another one, which crashes into another leaving only one. “Let them get closer!”

 

“Fine!” He let’s the last SUV catch up.

 

Arkillius climbs on the roof, as soon as they were close enough he jumps off the roof heading at the SUV feet first, as he smashes through the windscreen he grabs the passenger’s head and smashes it onto the dashboard, he then kicks his door open and pushes him out, the drivers currently trying to keep the car from swerving, Arkillius then grabs the drivers head and slams it onto the steering wheel causing the horn to go off, he grabs the wheel as the force of the hit knocked the driver unconscious. He then slams his foot on the brakes, but it appears the brakes don’t work.

 

“Bollocks!” He then contacts Bedlam telepathically, “The brakes don’t work!”

 

Bedlam who had been watching laughed, “I Noticed, you might want to hold on, or get out.”

 

He frowns, “What for?” He looks to the left and his eyes widen, “Never mind.” He moves to the passenger’s seat and proceeds to roll out, just in time before Bedlam driving at full speed slams into the side of the SUV causing it to roll a couple of times before sliding to a complete stop.

 

Arkillius stands up and wipes his jacket down, he then walks over to the 4×4 and gets into the passenger’s seat. “You’re aware if I was human jumping out of a car at that speed would’ve killed me?”

 

“Good thing you’re not human then huh?”

 

“Oh yeah brilliant.” He replied sarcastically.

 

"Oh stop complaining you kill gods, they’re a lot more deadly than what you’ve just done.”

 

“You’re right, thanks for the ego boost pal.” He finishes his sentence by patting him on the shoulder.

 

He opens a portal and drives towards it, “You don’t need an ego boost, you’re big-headed enough as it is.”

 

He laughs at that, “I know.”

 

Bedlam rolls his eyes.

 

******

 

Hornet just holds out his hand.

 

Sirrus rolls his eyes and hands him ten dollars.

 

“Do they always show off like that?” Giles asked with a sigh.

 

“Yes, count yourselves lucky it wasn’t Hornet with Arkillius, those two are worse together, and thank god I didn’t bring the other two, they haven’t been called The Fatal Four for nothing. And that’s what our enemies dubbed them in case you’re wondering.”

 

Everyone looked at Hornet wide eyed, he shrugs, “it’s not my fault we’re good at what we do.”

 

Sirrus chuckles, “The four of them have known each other years, and I mean Years, they work together amazingly well, the problem is they act like children when together.”

 

They all nodded as Arkillius & Bedlam came through the front door.

 

“Now that was fun!” Arkillius said with a huge grin.

 

“Gotta admit it didn’t suck, and now Salazar’s down some minions.” Bedlam states. They high five each other.

 

Hornet now focuses back on the laptop, “Guys you better look at this.” His voice was serious.

 

That brought everyone’s attention to him they all walked over and looked at the screen, it seemed to show a big black mass covering all Sunnydale, and two big green snakes in the shape of an ‘S.S.’ on it.

 

“What on earth?” Giles exclaims.

 

Sirrus stares at the laptop, “That Bastard!”

 

“What?” Multiple people asked worriedly.

 

“He’s getting ready for an apocalypse, and he’s warning every other evil being he’s here.”

 

Everyone’s eyes widened in fear, “Why’s he letting them know he’s here?” Buffy asked worriedly.

 

“To keep them away, and it’s a big fuck you to the Senior Partners, look at where Wolfram & Hart should be.” They do and they see the same black mass with green snakes, only this time its smaller only covering the building.

 

“Why’s t-that symbol s-smaller?” Tara asked curiously.

 

“it’s Just to let the Senior Partners know who’s responsible for what happened at Wolfram & Hart.”

 

“Why’s Sunnydale’s so big?” Faith asked worriedly.

 

“So we can’t find him unless he wants us too, we don’t know where Riley’s being held, and unless Salazar shows us we won’t. I don’t want to give false hope, when Riley left here.....that’s probably the last time you’ll ever see him alive, I’m sorry.”

 

Everyone gasps at that, “Well we need to find him!” Xander states as he begins walking to the door. Hornet grabs him and drags him back.

 

“That’s just what Salazar wants fuck face! Do we need to remind you Riley let the fact you two wished him here slip?”

 

Xander looked scared, “I’m next aren’t I? Salazar wants me?”

 

He nods, “Yeah he does, we were hoping he wouldn’t find out about the wish but Finn couldn’t keep his mouth shut, it’s a good thing he never knew the truth about Dawn.” Everyone paled at the thought of what could have occurred if Riley knew about Dawn.

 

Xander sits in one of the chairs, “Are you so sure Riley would have told him if he knew?”

 

“I can guarantee it, he’ll think she’s not human, he would’ve turned her over to Salazar in a heartbeat if he thought he would’ve left us alone, and he’d have done it with a smile on his face thinking he was the hero.”

 

Xander nods, “You’re right he would have.”

 

“Is there any chance that Riley could survive? I know he’s an idiot but I don’t want him to die.” Buffy asked.

 

“If he gets out of wherever Salazar & Solomon are hold up alive its a trap, and like I said we can’t find him, Salazar’s made sure of that.” Sirrus responds apologetically.

 

“We’ll keep looking, but even though Sunnydale’s a town its not a small place.” Bedlam adds on.

 

They all nod their understanding.

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

It was 9pm as Salazar & Solomon look at an unconscious Riley.

 

“How hard did you hit this fucker? He’s still out cold the pussy.” Salazar huffs.

 

Solomon looks down at Riley, “Not that fucking hard, I can’t believe he was acting big when he can’t even handle a punch.”

 

“That’s it! Wake up you pansy!” He finishes with a backhand to Riley’s cheek.

 

Riley jolts awake at the force, he looks around and discovers he’s strapped to a table, he looks at Salazar & Solomon his eyes wide with terror.

 

“Let me go please! I’m sorry I offended you! Please! I’ll tell you anything!”

 

Salazar & Solomon just looked at him with unimpressed disgust, “I’m going to check on the other prisoner, he’s pathetic.” Salazar said as he walks away.

 

He continue towards the cells, he opens the one holding the man in the suit from yesterday, he enters and crouches down then takes the sack off his head.

 

“Just the man I wanted to see.” Salazar said with a smirk.

 

“Who are you? What do you want?” The man asks in fear.

 

“I need to send a message, and you’re perfect for that.”

 

“Why me?”

 

“Because it’s for your daughter, what do you think Hank? You up for it?”

 

Hank Summers eyes widen in horror.

Notes:

The Los Angeles branch of Wolfram & Hart is gone. More of Salazar’s history has been revealed, William has made his appearance, Salazar & Solomon have Riley, a lot more uncomfortable truths exposed, and Salazar & Solomon have Buffy’s farther.

The 'Action/Adventure' Genre will be added, due to the car chase scene. More action scenes will appear later in the story.

The 'Rape' Warning has been added for the scene in Wolfram & Hart, I didn’t make it too graphic, mainly because I didn’t want to. The 'Child Abuse' Warning has been added in regards to Salazar’s childhood.

Like all other chapters, this has all been done by me, let me know what you think.

Chapter 9: Chapter 9 - A Soldiers Downfall

Notes:

A large part of this chapter switches between two scenes, that's why some aren't marked.

Sirrus explains the difference between realities & universes, according to D.U.S.T.

Solomon says some disgusting stuff to Buffy at a certain point in this chapter, just a heads up.

Characters updated with this chapter.

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

Riley looked up at Solomon in fear, “What are you going to do to me?”

 

Solomon smirks down at him, “Damage you beyond belief boy.” He ties himself up much to Riley’s confusion.

 

Solomon makes sure he’s secured, then green smoke exits his mouth and enters Riley’s mouth.

 

******

 

Riley’s Mind

 

Solomon ends up in the psych class at UC Sunnydale, he still appears as Ben.

 

Riley in the same room sees him and begins to back away, they are in one of his memories, Maggie Walsh is leading the class and Buffy and Willow are watching the class.

 

“GET OUT OF MY HEAD!!!!” Riley screamed.

 

“But we’re about to have so much fun, you’ll love it.” He says with a smirk.

 

Riley watches as he approaches Mind Maggie and breaks her neck. “NOOOOOOO!” no one else in the room reacted, they were still writing like nothing happened.

 

“The bitches voice was getting annoying.” Riley starts backing away, “Why are you leaving? The party’s just beginning.”

 

“No Please Stop! Please!” Riley was sobbing his words.

 

“Would you perhaps like help? I’m going to win anyway so why not.” He clicks his fingers.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

They were all sitting in the room when Buffy & Willow collapsed unconscious.

 

******

 

Buffy & Willow seemed to jolt awake in psych class, and what they see makes them gasp, Professor Walsh was dead on the floor and Solomon was advancing on a sobbing Riley.

 

“Riley!” Buffy exclaims.

 

He looks at her, “Buffy help me please!”

 

Solomon smirks as he turns to face Willow & Buffy, “I see you two crazy kids got my invitation.”

 

Willow gasps, “You did this? where are we?”

 

“Inside Riley’s head where else?”

 

Buffy & Willow’s eyes widen in shock, then Buffy jumps over her desk and she and Solomon begin trading blows.

 

Willow ran over to Riley, “This is your mind Riley you have control here.”

 

Riley shakes his head, “This is a memory and he killed Walsh...he’s in control here.”

 

Willow’s eyes widened in horror at the news, “Oh Goddess!”

 

******

 

“What’s happening?” Spike says panicked as he’s cradling an unconscious Buffy.

 

Bedlam waves his hand over them and his eyes widen in horror, “Oh God!”

 

“What?” Faith asks terrified, she’s never seen Bedlam look like this.

 

“Solomon’s began mental warfare, he’s possessed Riley to torture him.....and pulled Buffy & Willow inside.”

 

Everyone’s eyes widened in horror including Sirrus’s, “What can we do?” Angel asks.

 

“There’s nothing we can do Solomon’s in full control, even I can’t get in...unless Solomon pulls you in too...all you can do is wait.” He says apologetically.

 

******

 

Solomon headbutts Buffy splitting her lip, “You slayers aren’t enough to handle The Serpent Family.”

 

“We’ll just see about that.” She snapped angrily.

 

They charge at each other again, but just like Salazar, Solomon has skill. Buffy’s fist connects with his nose making his head snap back, he backhands her in response then kicks her in the back knocking her into one of the desks, the other students were still writing like nothing was happening.

 

Riley with his arms wrapped around his legs is rocking back & forth sobbing.

 

Willow’s looking for something to help when Buffy comes sliding across the floor and hits the nearby wall with a thud.

 

“Willow! Get Riley, Solomon’s too strong, we have to go.”

 

Willow nods and they both grab Riley and run out the classroom, they can hear Solomon laughing behind them.

 

“You can run! But you can’t hide!”

 

They managed to get out of the building and onto the campus grounds.

 

“What the hells going on? How’s he in control of Riley’s mind?” Buffy asked as they ran.

 

“I don’t know, he killed Walsh and she was a memory, that should be impossible.” Willow responds in a panic.

 

The sound of the campus building doors crashing open made them look, only to see green smoke coming out of every doorway, and forming into a giant Solomon looking down at them.

 

He smirks, “I’m the master here, let me guess....Sirrus never told you that I’m a master of mind manipulation did he?”

 

Riley, Willow & Buffy’s eyes widened at that, they turned and began to run again.

 

******

 

Sirrus looks down, “There’s something you need to know....I didn’t say anything before because it was just Salazar, but now Solomon’s in the mix.”

 

“What?” Anne asked worried.

 

“Solomon’s a master of mind manipulation, and by that I mean....he can do literally anything you could imagine in there, and Buffy & Willow are trapped in his playground.”

 

They all gasp, “Oh my poor baby! We have to save her.” Joyce said panicked.

 

“The only hope we have...is if Buffy & Willow figure out how to pull people in themselves.”

 

******

 

“We have to find somewhere to hide!” Willow shouted.

 

“I know but where?!”

 

They run into a random house and ended up in the magic box. It’s another memory, Buffy runs over to the Spike sat on the counter.

 

“Spike Baby! Please! I need your help!” She finishes this plea by grabbing him by the duster.

 

******

 

Everyone gasps as Spike collapsed unconscious.

 

“Buffy’s pulled him in. With him being her soulmate it’s easier.” Bedlam explains at their confused looks.

 

******

 

Spike jolts and finds himself staring into Buffy’s panicked eyes, “Buffy sweetheart, I was so worried about you.” He pulls her into a hug.

 

“Spike! Oh God! I’m so glad to see you.” She proves this with a heated kiss.

 

Willow clears her throat, “Umm guys, glad you’re happy to see each other but we happen to be on the run.”

 

Buffy & Spike pull apart, “You’re right Wills, we have to find a way out.”

 

“Even if we do that won’t help soldier boy, he’ll still be with them.” Spike informs her.

 

Buffy’s eyes widened, “I completely forgot, what are we going to do?”

 

“I don’t know Bedlam can’t get in by himself, Solomon’s in charge in here.”

 

“Too Right.” The voice makes them all spin to see Solomon in the doorway.

 

Spike jumps off the counter, “Come on Solomon, let’s you and me have ago.” He charges him and they begin fighting.

 

“Spike!” Buffy exclaims In panic, “Be careful.”

 

“No worries kitten.” Buffy & Willow watch shocked as Spike manages to keep Solomon on his toes, Solomon even seems surprised at Spike’s skill.

 

“You’re good vampire.” He slams his palm against Spike’s chest making him fly back and land on the floor near Buffy’s feet. “But I’m bored now.”

 

Buffy pulls Spike up, then after grabbing Willow & Riley they run out the magic box into the back alley.

 

“We need to find a way to pull everyone else in. We’ll have a better chance with all of us.”

 

“OK, well head for Riley’s memory of Angel.”

 

They nod and take off down the alley.

 

******

 

“With the more people trying it should be easier to pull more people in.” Bedlam informs everyone gathered.

 

“OK we just have to wait till she finds us.” Angel said determined.

 

“Be warned the more people trying to stop him, the worse stuff he’s going to throw at you.”

 

They all nod their understanding.

 

******

 

Buffy, Spike, Willow & Riley were running through the streets of Sunnydale hoping to come across more memories.

 

They ended up back at UC Sunnydale, The Gentleman were floating around, meaning this was when they lost their voices. All of a sudden green smoke came out of nowhere and surrounded the Gentleman, when the smoke disappeared the Gentleman looked at the four of them with glowing green eyes.

 

Their eyes widened in terror as the Gentleman began to float towards them, they took off again.

 

“He’s turned memory monsters against us!” Willow said in a panic.

 

“I know we need help.” Buffy responds just as panicked.

 

“In all my years, I’ve never come across anything like this before.” Spike adds on.

 

“Hey look! It’s Angel!” Willow exclaims, they looked over and realised they were in the memory where Angel showed up at Buffy’s dorm room.

 

“Let’s follow him up!” Buffy ordered.

 

The rest nod and they’re off, they enter the building run straight up the stairs towards Buffy’s old room.

 

They get into the hall and see Angel leaving, they all stop in front of him Buffy, Willow & Spike grab him shouting.

 

******

 

Angel falls to the ground unconscious.

 

“I see they’ve found Angel.” Cordelia said matter-of-factly.

 

The others nod.

 

******

 

Angel jolts to find Buffy, Willow & Spike shaking him. “I’m here.” The building seems to disappear and they find themselves in Restfield Cemetery. Solomon’s sitting on a nearby headstone.

 

“Brought more help I see, it won’t make a difference.”

 

Riley starts backing away, “NOO!! LEAVE ME ALONE!!!”

 

“Now where’s the fun in that?” He said with a smirk.

 

Angel, Buffy & Spike approach him, “Let’s see if you can handle all 3 of us.” Angel growled.

 

He sighs, “If you insist.” He punches Angel in the jaw, followed with a kick to Buffy’s stomach & a headbutt to Spike.

 

Willow & Riley watch on her thoughts running amok, ‘I Promised not to use magic, unless there wasn’t any other choice. We need to find a memory holding Bedlam or Tara it might be the only chance.’

 

The 3 vs. 1 fight isn’t going the way they hoped, Solomon’s managing to fight all 3 at once. They seem to be getting some hits in, but he’s holding them off.

 

Willow sees the glowing green eyed Gentleman enter the graveyard, “We’ve got company!”

 

Buffy, Spike & Angel turn to see what Willow saw, “Great! We can’t take Solomon and them as well.” Buffy said worriedly.

 

Solomon smirks, “I can make it worse.” He clicks his fingers & The Gentleman disappear, then bodies start clawing out of the graves.

 

Buffy, Willow, Angel, Spike & Riley go wide eyed with fear, “Zombies!” Riley exclaims in terror.

 

They all turn and run, as every corpse in the cemetery eventually followed.

 

They manage to get out of the cemetery and on to the street, they take of running as multiple zombies seem to follow them out.

 

“What The Bloody Hell Are We Supposed To Do?!!” Spike shouts as he glances behind him.

 

Angel looked over his shoulder, “I don’t know I’ve never dealt with anything like this before.”

 

“I promised Bedlam I wouldn’t use magic unless there’s no other choice, and even If this was the time, Solomon’s in control here! We need to find a memory with either Bedlam or Tara.”

 

They all nod in agreement as they carry on down the road.

 

******

 

“Bedlam? Isn’t there anyway to see what’s happening in there?” Sirrus asks as he’s pacing.

 

“Probably.” He walks over to the screen and makes a mental link to Spike. The screen comes on showing them running through Sunnydale, with what appear to be Zombies after them.

 

“Holy Cow!” Xander exclaims, “They have Zombies chasing them!”

 

“Solomon’s raised the dead. All of it.” Bedlam says his voice serious.

 

Everyone was watching the screen with wide eyes, “That’s bad.” Dawn said scared.

 

“It’s worse than you think, he’s raised all the dead. Meaning they could see friends they’ve lost.”

 

“Oh God!” Her eyes widened further.

 

******

 

They’re running through the streets as they find a memory, this one has Graham Miller in it. Riley in his panic calls out. “Graham!!”

 

He seems to jolt, “Riley?” His eyes widened at the horde of Zombies that seem to be following them.

 

On the way past Riley grabs Graham’s arm and drags him along.

 

******

 

“Balls! He’s locked up, he doesn’t have a clue what’s happening.” Hornet huffed.

 

******

 

They seemed to lose the Zombies, “Riley! What the hells going on?” Graham asked.

 

“Long story mate, we’re trapped inside his head, and an evil wankers in here with us, he’s raised the dead.” Spike responds.

 

Graham’s eyes widen at Spike, “Hostile 17? Actually it doesn’t matter. We’re trapped inside Riley’s head? Who’s this evil guy? How did I get here?”

 

Buffy leans into Spike’s side in what everyone noticed as a protective way. “Yes, Yes, Solomon Serpent, and Riley pulled you in.”

 

He furrowed his brow, “Who’s Solomon Serpent? I’ve never heard of him before.”

 

Angel leans against a nearby wall, “Long story, he’s evil that’s all that matters. Where were you before Riley pulled you in?”

 

“Oh! I was in prison, get this Riley, apparently me working in the initiative broke supernatural laws, so I was being held for D.U.S.T. whoever they are.”

 

Spike snorts, “Only the supernatural government, it’s not like they matter at all.” He said sarcastically.

 

“Demons have a government? So why do they do evil things then?”

 

“Oh! It’s not like humans don’t rape and murder each other! Or kill people because their skins different is it?!” He snapped in response.

 

No one could reply to that because he was right, before the could respond dark laughter got their attention, they all span around to see Solomon watching with a smirk.

 

“Who’s the new boy? Not like it matters much, I’m just curious.”

 

Riley’s eyes widened in terror, “GO AWAY!!!” He screamed as he fisted both hands in his hair.

 

Buffy narrows her eyes at Solomon, “We’re going to find you & Salazar, and we’ll stop you.”

 

“My grandson hasn’t even begun, he’ll end you all, and even if you do win, you’ll be an enemy of The Serpent Family, and there’s a lot more than just us.”

 

She tried not to show how his words affected her, “It’s not like I haven’t had enemies in the past, we beat them just like we’ll beat you.”

 

“Big words for a little girl who keeps running away.”

 

“You can’t fight me yourself! You’ve made Zombies come after us!” She responds outraged.

 

“You can’t fight me yourself either, if you have help so should I. Count yourselves lucky, I could always pull Salazar in here.” He smirks as their eyes widened.

 

******

 

“He could as well, she needs to find memories of us and fast!” Hornet said while pacing.

 

******

 

The Zombie horde appeared at the alley entrance, “Buffy! We have to go!” Willow shouted.

 

They all took off running down the alley, “I’m not usually one for running away!” Buffy said angrily.

 

“I’m not either kitten, but we can’t deal with all them & Solomon without help.” Spike responds understandingly.

 

“I know, we need to find a way to stop him.”

 

They kept running until they found themselves at Giles’s flat. They barged through the front door to find Giles & Xander in there.

 

“Giles! Rupes! Giles!” multiple voices shouted, then they grab him and shake.

 

******

 

Giles who’s sitting in the chair falls unconscious.

 

******

 

Giles jolts to find Buffy, Willow, Angel & Spike shaking him, Riley & Graham are holding the door closed.

 

“Good Lord! We have to find Bedlam, I believe he’s the only one with the power to counteract Solomon.”

 

“First we have to get out of here!” Graham shouted.

 

“Yes of course, everyone run for the back, I have an idea.”

 

They did and they ran through Giles’s bedroom door and ended up in the initiative.

 

******

 

“Why didn’t they pull me in?” Xander asked offended.

 

“Because they were using their brains, Salazar & Solomon want you for revenge, dragging you to where one of them is isn’t the best plan.” Arkillius said as if he was stating the obvious.

 

“OK I get that, but what stopping Solomon pulling me in then?” He asked sacred.

 

“Umm...nothing.”

 

Xander’s eyes widen in horror.

 

******

 

They were walking through the hallways of the initiative, Willow looked thoughtful.

 

“I don’t get it.”

 

“Get what Willow?” Buffy asked curiously.

 

“How was Solomon able to possess Riley and pull us in anyway? We all have these protection charms.”

 

Buffy furrowed her brow, “I never actually thought about that.”

 

Giles began cleaning his glasses, “Because these were created to stop magic, possession may be mystical in origin, but it’s not classified as magic. Furthermore I’m led to believe that Solomon noticed the charm Riley was wearing, and because of this he worked out a way to pull you & Willow inside without magic.”

 

“How isn’t this magic Giles?” She asked in disbelief.

 

“He used mystical means to pull your consciousness into Riley’s mind, if you haven’t noticed Buffy you look like you did back when you first attended college. Your bodies are still out in the real world, with Solomon being a master of mind manipulation, he’s managed to drag you both inside without the use of magic. Mainly because here he’s the master, meaning he can do anything.”

 

“Oh God! What are we supposed to do?” She begins hyperventilating.

 

Spike grabs her biceps and soothingly rubs them, “Buffy? Baby? Kitten!” She looks directly into his eyes, “That’s it sweetheart, calm down, you can do anything I believe in you & I love you.”

 

She calmed down but kept staring into his eyes, “I love you too.” She leans forward and kisses him. The rest come to a stop and wait for them.

 

Graham looked confused, “Isn’t she supposed to be with Riley?”

 

Willow shook her head, “No, we found out it’s illegal for slayers to date normal humans, and she & Spike are supposed to be together.”

 

His eyes widened, “Seriously? How did you find this out?”

 

“We’ve met D.U.S.T. they’re helping us fight Salazar & Solomon.”

 

“The people who had me arrested? Why wait till now to tell you?”

 

Giles walks over to stand beside them, “Because of alternate realities, or universes I don’t know the difference, I’ll have to ask. Anyway due to alternate realities they didn’t find this Buffy until Salazar arrived, and I believe they’re making sure Buffy & Spike get together in every reality. They’re destined to be together to stop The First Evil...for good.”

 

Graham’s eyes widened at the news.

 

******

 

“What is the difference between realities & universes?” Anne asked curiously.

 

Sirrus explains, “Alternate realities mean your life’s different or been altered. Alternate universes mean the universe itself is different, be it having 2 moons, 3 earths, or humanity never existing and an alien race living here instead, that last one was just an example, we haven’t found a universe like that...yet. when you hear the term Parallel universes, Parallel realities or so on, that means there the ones next to yours, there are multiple different types, Parallel alternate realities, or Parallel alternate universes. Now there’s identical realities, or identical universes, this means that they’re the exact same, technically most realities are identical until something happens to alter them, even if you live somewhere else and never come to Sunnydale that would still be an alternate reality, because you exist, if you ever travelled to a reality where you were never born, to you that’s an alternate earth, but if you was born there and died it would still be an alternate reality because you existed. Then there’s mirrored realities, or mirrored universes, these ones are extremely rare to come across though, it’s like looking in a mirror, for example how the magic box till is on the right as you enter the shop, in a mirrored reality it will be on the left, but apart from that they’re pretty much the same. Dimensions to us at least, are totally different, they’re so far from reality that they’re different dimensions, like hell dimensions and stuff like that, an alternate dimension is used in regards to someone who travels from their dimension to another where their life’s been altered."

 

Everyone was looking at him wide eyed with amazement, except Anya, Arkillius, Bedlam & Hornet because they already knew. Wesley was writing it all down in his notebook, mainly to show Giles when he returns.

 

“So if dinosaurs never went extinct, that would be an alternate earth?” Anne asked confused.

 

“Technically that would be an alternate universe, because that would mean the meteor never hit earth, so it either hit another planet or would still be traveling through space. It would only be classed as an alternate earth if the meteor hit but the dinosaurs survived.”

 

Anne nodded, “I understand it better now.”

 

“It’s not really something you have to worry about anyway. If you ever travel to another reality you’ll understand.” Arkillius responds.

 

She nods.

 

******

 

After Buffy & Spike stopped kissing they carried on down the hallway, Graham sees something that makes him come to a complete stop.

 

“What the fucks this Finn?!” He snapped angrily.

 

That made everyone walk over to see what he saw, they look in the cell he’s looking in and instantly felt sick.

 

It was a memory, Riley was knelt above a female demons head pinning her arms to the floor, while Forrest Gates was forcing his way inside her. The demon looked human apart from the purple tint of her skin.

 

Graham glares at Riley, “How many of them have you and Forrest raped Riley?”

 

Riley looked like he hadn’t done anything wrong, “It’s not like it matters, she was just an animal. That’s why you were never invited, you would have complained.”

 

Buffy just punches him, “Of course it matters, you’re sick Riley. You did stuff like that then shared a bed with me? I feel disgusting just knowing about it.” She said angrily.

 

“Oh I don’t know, you had no problem sharing a bed with Angel.” They all span around to see Solomon leaning against the wall. “And think about how many little girls that paedophile raped, then stuck that same cock in you.” He smirks.

 

Buffy’s face turned green at his words.

 

******

 

“She needs to stop listening to him! He uses the truth as a weapon.” Hornet responds.

 

Anne looked sick at his words as well, William took her in his arms.

 

“I can’t believe Riley did stuff like that.” Xander said in disbelief.

 

Everyone in the room looked at him in disbelief, he put his head down. He knew exactly what they were thinking, he tried the same to Buffy and lied about remembering it.

 

******

 

Spike glared at Solomon, “Shut up you wanker.”

 

He shrugs, “It’s not like I’m lying is it?”

 

“No you aren’t, but the difference is Angel wasn’t doing it while I was with him.” Buffy said through clenched teeth.

 

He raises an eyebrow, “I’d say the amount of times he raped a wheelchair bound Spike says different.”

 

Spike & Angel flinched at that, letting Buffy know it was true, she looked at Spike distraught, knowing she was the reason he was in the wheelchair in the first place.

 

“Spike baby I’m so sorry, I didn’t know.” She was in tears at this point.

 

“It’s over and done with Buffy, I don’t blame you for it kitten.” He said with a smile.

 

******

 

Anne looked at William in tears, “I’m sorry baby. Please forgive me?”

 

“There’s nothing to forgive. Like Spike told Buffy, I don’t blame you at all sweetheart.”

 

She hugs herself closer to him.

 

******

 

Solomon rolls his eyes, “You used to have a thing for rapists, maybe that’s why it took you so long to date Spike? The fact he’s never forced his dick in someone, and you found it a turn off.” He laughs at the look on her face.

 

Buffy was looking more and more ill with each word, “No that’s not true! I wanted Spike from the beginning!”

 

“Then you should have dated him, I wonder if that’s why Xander tried to rape you? Thinking you might give him a shot.”

 

Buffy was now trembling due to his words, “Nononono! I don’t want rapists!”

 

******

 

Anne was also trembling at his words, “It’s not true William! Why’s he lying?” She said hysterical.

 

“Because he’s a wanker. He knows just what to say to push your buttons. Don’t listen to him baby I know it’s not true.”

 

She nods and pulls herself tightly against Spike, so tight they may as well share one body.

 

******

 

“Back off you sick fuck!” Spike growled.

 

“What? I only raped Lilah because I thought Buffy would give me a shot.” He said with mock sincerity, then shrugs, “Guess I was wrong.”

 

Buffy’s now clinging onto Spike’s arm, to stop herself trembling and to stop Spike attacking Solomon. The doors at the end of the hallway crashed open as the Zombie horde appeared.

 

Solomon rolls his eyes, “About time.”

 

They take off running down the hallway, as they went through some doors they found themselves at the magic box but only Arkillius & Hornet were there. Spike runs over, “Ark! Hornet!” he shouts then shakes them.

 

******

 

Arkillius & Hornet fall unconscious.

 

******

 

Arkillius & Hornet jolt with Spike shaking them. “Thank god, why are you two the only people here?” Spike asked confused.

 

“Two reasons, and I’m hoping its the first.” Hornet responds.

 

“What are they?” Giles asked concerned.

 

“One, Finn either chose to remember things differently, or Salazar’s slowly Killing him....and his minds collapsing with us inside it.”

 

Spike, Buffy, Graham, Riley, Giles, Willow & Angel’s eyes widened in terror at the thought.

 

“We need to get out of here!” Riley said panicked.

 

“No shit. It’s easier said than done.” Hornet responds sarcastically.

 

The doors crash open and the Zombies come pouring in.

 

“We need to move!” Arkillius commands as they move to the back of the shop, Riley & Graham gasp as they see Forrest & Maggie as Zombies.

 

They all get out of the building and end up in Xander’s basement.

 

Spike sighs, “Thought I’d seen the last of this shithole.”

 

“Oh I don’t know, I think its rather cosy.” They look to see Solomon sat on the couch next to memory Xander, memory Riley’s currently dead on the floor. And Xander’s parents are hanging from the ceiling, with their intestines hanging out.

 

They all look in horror at the scene.

 

“What? Thought I’d make it nice for Xander.” He clicks his fingers.

 

******

 

Xander falls unconscious.

 

******

 

Xander jolts and screams at the sight before him, “NOOOOO!”

 

“Do you have to sound like such a little bitch?” Solomon asked with a raised eyebrow.

 

Xander turns to the voice and recoiled in fear, “Please don’t hurt me!”

 

“Do you ever think that’s worked?”

 

Xander climbs over the couch arm, “First time for everything?”

 

Solomon stands up, but before he can respond Hornet attacks him.

 

Hornet’s fist connects with Solomon’s face, he throws more hits and every blow connects, everyone’s looking on amazed at Hornet’s skill, except Arkillius who just rolls his eyes.

 

Solomon blocks Hornet’s next attack, “Now that hurt.” He then punches him knocking him down.

 

Hornet rolls to his feet, “There’s more where that came from, Sirrus killed you once he can do it again.”

 

Solomon narrowed his eyes, “He can try! I won’t fall at his hand a second time.”

 

“Everyone eventually falls at Sirrus’s hand. And if not his, ours.” Arkillius said matter-of-factly.

 

“We’ll see.” Solomon smirks and walks to the door, he stopped just before exiting with his hand on the handle while still looking at the door. “3,2,1.” He finishes with opening it and walking out as multiple Zombies break through the upstairs door.

 

Spike sighs, “This is getting old! We have to find a sodding way to stop them.”

 

They take off running out the door Solomon left through, “This reminds me of Raccoon City, it was irritating back then, it’s pissing me off now.” Hornet said angrily.

 

“You’ve dealt with Zombies before?” Graham asked amazed.

 

“Too many times to keep count pal.”

 

They’re running down the street, “Look for a memory of Bedlam! He’s our only chance!” Arkillius calls out.

 

“Finn! Think of Bedlam and open a bloody door!” Hornet snapped angrily.

 

Riley does as he’s told he thinks hard about Bedlam and they run through a random door. They appear back in the safehouse, but only Bedlam is here.

 

“Why’s it only Bedlam?” Buffy asked worriedly.

 

Hornet snorts, “He randomly walks around when everyone else is asleep. Bedlam you great spastic!” He grabs Bedlam’s shoulder and shakes.

 

******

 

Bedlam falls unconscious.

 

******

 

Bedlam jolts to find Hornet shaking him. “Where’s Solomon?”

 

“Fuck Solomon, we have Zombies to deal with.”

 

“Fine, everyone hold on.” They do so and the room spins and they find themselves in the street outside the magic box, the horde of Zombies coming towards them.

 

“What are we supposed to do?” Xander asked panicked.

 

“This.” Bedlam clicks his fingers and swords appear in their hands.

 

“Yeah! We have our own master of mind manipulation.” Hornet shouts with glee, “Let’s drop some corpses.”

 

Hornet runs forward decapitating multiple Zombies, then back flips out the way as multiple others try an reach for him. Arkillius followed suit, taking multiple more of them out, but they were still coming.

 

“You two! Get back, I have a plan.” Bedlam informs them, as they move back they see he’s holding a fireball. He throws said fireball and as its shooting towards the Zombie horde he fires a bolt of lightning at it. As the fireball reached the front of the horde the bolt collides with it, a massive wave of electrified fire swarmed them. All the Zombies dropped to the ground.

 

Willow looks at him in amazement, “You combined two spells, that was incredible.”

 

Hornet chuckles, “That’s Bedlam for ya.”

 

Bedlam rolls his neck, “Now its time for Solomon.”

 

They nod and begin walking down the street, “Probably forget to mention it to you two, I told Anne about it, it’s about your false engagement.” Bedlam said to Buffy & Spike.

 

They both looked confused, “What about it mate?” Spike asked curiously.

 

“You were both acting up, neither of you were really disgusted. If anything you were both heartbroken that it ended.....but there was something the PTB told me that I didn’t divulge.”

 

“What’s that?” Buffy asked concerned.

 

“First the reason I never told you, was because I had to make sure the powers weren’t lying to save their own skin. It turns out they wasn’t....unbeknownst to Willow she cast the ‘my will be done’ spell on their orders.”

 

Everyone looked dumbfounded, including the people watching back at the safehouse.

 

“What? Why?” Willow asked shocked.

 

“Even the powers were getting sick of the way you were acting. All of you. They wanted Giles blind so he’d finally open his eyes, they wanted Xander a demon magnet because his demon hatred, and they wanted Buffy and Spike together to stop future events, they also hoped having no control would make Willow seek training. There’s a reason the spell never actually worked the way you wanted it. It was never supposed to.”

 

“What events did they want stopping?” Buffy asked scared.

 

“Joyce....she would have died. Not from the tumour, but from an aneurysm as a complication from surgery.”

 

Everyone gasped at that.

 

******

 

Joyce looked pale, “I could have died?” Her voice held a tremor.

 

“Mommy’s fine now right?” Dawn asked scared.

 

“Yes, Bedlam cured the tumour.” Sirrus said matter-of-factly.

 

“Did you know?” Anya asked curiously.

 

“Not really no, we’ve been to realities where she’d already died, but we didn’t actually know How she died. Also she survived in every reality we’ve been to, the ones where she was still alive that is. Meaning our involvement somehow stopped her death, but we don’t know how being this Joyce was the first we’ve been aware of that’s had a tumour.”

 

******

 

“Joyce could have died? But what’s Spike’s involvement change?” Xander asked gobsmacked.

 

“The Powers showed me multiple other realities, of what could have happened. Spike being there in most of them saved her. He could smell the blood from the aneurysm, this helped get her to the hospital in time. They only showed me one reality were that was different. In that one Spike confessed his love for Buffy....and she thanked him by disinviting him, as a result Joyce died. The Powers never specifically stated that having Spike there changed every outcome, but that’s what they were implying.”

 

Everyone looked pale at the words, Buffy looked upset that an alternate version of her disinvited Spike. Giles was understanding even more how important Spike was. Angel looked amazed & proud of Spike. Spike looked shocked. Willow looked thankful that Spike was there. Riley looked like he wanted to deny it. Graham looked surprised & impressed, but Xander had a fact to state. It seems he hasn’t figured it out yet.

 

“But you saved Joyce, Spike had nothing to do with it.”

 

Everyone looked at him in disbelief, Bedlam just raised his eyebrow, “You sure about that?”

 

“Yeah I was there.”

 

“Well you seem to have forgotten that we’re only here in the first place because Spike called us. So if you want to get technical, Spike did save Joyce, and Darla.”

 

Xander’s eyes widened with understanding, he couldn’t argue against that because it was true.

 

“What else happened mate? You said ‘events’ meaning more than one.” Spike asked worried.

 

“I did. The other much more dangerous events been stopped this time, Ironically by Salazar.”

 

Everyone looked at him in disbelief, “How?” Buffy asked incredulously.

 

“The other event.....is you dying. You would’ve won against Glory, but you would have died In the process, Salazar being here stopped that happening. In other realities Spike stopped it....but not all of them, doesn’t mean he didn’t try.”

 

Everyone turned pale again at the news, “I would have died?” Buffy asked with a shaky voice.

 

“It’s a possibility. I’m not saying it would have happened the same here, but it could have.”

 

Spike pulled Buffy tightly to his side at the news.

 

******

 

“My baby could have died as well?” Joyce asked panicked.

 

“Yes, that we know about. Willow brought her back from the dead, but she didn’t do it right. That’s what gave The First Evil a foothold in that reality, and it tried doing what Salazar did and ending the slayer line.”

 

Everyone looked shocked & scared at that. Sirrus continued on before anyone else can speak.

 

“That was the apocalypse the first Spike we met died in. He stopped The First only for Buffy to nearly end the world instead.”

 

Anne looked terrified by the news, “How? What happened?”

 

“She had the brilliant idea to turn all the potentials into slayers. The problem is the balance between good & evil was thrown out of whack. The word balance exists for a reason, if too much good exists more evils created to fix the balance. That’s why evil can never truly be eradicated, because if evil didn’t exist neither would good. With every evil being you defeat there’s always another one ready to take their place.”

 

Everyone let that sink in.

 

******

 

Turns out Bedlam was giving the others the same speech.

 

“So the other event was me dying and Willow bringing me back? Which wasn’t done correctly meaning it gave The First Evil a foothold there? And that led to that world’s Buffy activating every slayer to defeat The First? Only unknown to her she nearly ended the world in the process because the balance had shifted?” Buffy asked shocked.

 

“Yeah exactly.”

 

“Why didn’t that Willow just let her stay dead?”

 

“She wouldn’t have stayed dead regardless, The Powers would have brought her back. She and that world’s Spike could be in the running for the birth of the prophecised child. It wasn’t the fact that Willow brought her back that was the problem, it was because she didn’t do it right. By the time the problem fixed itself it was too late, The First already had a foothold.”

 

“Oh that makes sense, But the powers activated every slayer in Salazar’s world to stop him. So why didn’t it alter the balance there?”

 

“You never heard me say it didn’t. But regardless The Powers know how to keep the balance, The Serpent Family threw it out of whack there in the first place.”

 

“I would assume the opposite also occurs, that if the evil got too powerful the good would also gain more warriors. How come this didn’t occur with Salazar’s world?” Giles asked curiously.

 

“You’re right more good warriors get created if evil is too powerful. It happened in Salazar’s multiverse, his world’s pretty much a write-off so the good warriors got dispersed in multiple other worlds.”

 

“Ah, I see. That makes sense.”

 

“Is anyone else wondering where Solomon is? I mean he was showing up everywhere earlier and now there’s no sign of him.” Angel asked suspiciously.

 

“Aww, did you miss me?” Solomon said tauntingly from a nearby alley entrance.

 

They all turned to look, but Bedlam spoke, “No not really. I thought you were scared, not wanting to face someone who’s just as strong as you. Especially in here.”

 

“Regret to inform you, but it’s not true.” He charges Bedlam.

 

Bedlam charges back and they collide, punches & kicks are thrown, the fight takes them into the middle of the street, both still trading blows, Solomon eventually teleports onto the roof of a nearby building. He raises his arms then creatures appear out of nowhere, they look unfamiliar to some, but not others. The creatures appear human in body shape, two arms & legs, but their head is the head of a snake. They also have a tail and their scaly skin is black, and they have pure green eyes, they’re at least 7ft tall, wearing armour with swords, axes or spears.

 

“Prepare yourselves, these are extremely dangerous.”

 

“What the hell are they?!” Xander screeched.

 

“Warriors from The Order of The Serpent. The Serpent Family’s most trusted & loyal followers. Luckily with them not being the real thing they won’t be as strong, but I’d advise the normal humans to stay back.”

 

Angel, Spike, Buffy, Arkillius, Hornet & Bedlam raise their weapons. Giles pulls Willow, Xander, Riley & Graham to the side.

 

“There’s at least 30 of them, what’s our chances?” Angel asked worriedly.

 

“Extremely slim.” Hornet said with complete seriousness.

 

******

 

“Damn! This isn’t good.” Sirrus said while pacing.

 

“What’s their best chance?” Gunn asked worriedly.

 

“The rest of us getting in there. I can’t risk normal humans fighting them, they’re extremely powerful.”

 

Tara looks determined, “Bedlam believed in my powers, all the warriors sit down. I have an idea.”

 

Everyone looked shocked at the fact she didn’t stutter at all, but did as she asked. Tara put her hands against Bedlam’s temples, then closed her eyes.

 

******

 

Angel, Spike, Buffy, Arkillius, Hornet & Bedlam were about to attack when Faith, Lawson, Angelus, William, Anne, Sirrus, Oz, Ethan & Tara stepped up beside them.

 

Tara’s eyes were pure white and she appeared to be glowing. Ethan’s hands had electricity coming off them. Oz wolfed. Lawson, William & Angelus were in vamp face, to which Spike & Angel followed suit. All of them apart from Ethan, Oz & Tara had weapons.

 

Solomon’s eyes widened as he looked at Tara, “What are you? I’ve never felt anything like the power coming off of you before.” Hearing this Bedlam side glanced her thoughtfully.

 

Tara looked at him without any fear, “Let’s see what you can do.”

 

“With pleasure.” He teleports in front of the Serpent Warriors, “Let’s finish this.”

 

Both of the small armies ran towards each other weapons drawn, Oz lunged at one of the enemies throats, the weapons collided with tings and crashes. Ethan electrocuted two of them, Buffy, Faith & Anne stood in triangle formation back to back holding off the Serpent Warriors, Angel & Angelus were holding their own as well.

 

A scream from the side drew Lawson’s attention, just in time to see Graham get run through with a sword and fall to the ground dead. He charged at the Serpent Warrior responsible, jumped up and cut its head off from behind. It fell to the floor dead as well.

 

Bedlam was watching Tara in amazement, not only was she magically holding her own, but she also was fighting him with some amazing moves. He had no idea where she learnt it but it was incredible, he swears he sees a flash of fear in Solomon’s eyes.

 

Spike, William, Arkillius, Hornet & Sirrus took out multiple of the Serpent Warriors, there was only 11 of them left, Oz lunged at another one ripping it’s throat out, Ethan killed another two, and as the final one eventually dropped they all stood next to Bedlam and watched Tara take on Solomon.

 

Tara slams her palm against Solomon’s chest knocking him back, he tries a spin kick which she dodges, she then grabs his head in both hands and a glow appears from them, which makes Solomon scream then disappear.

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

Green smoke comes flying out of Riley’s mouth and re-enters Ben. Salazar was sat in a chair nearby watching.

 

Solomon’s panting when he looks round the room, “That little bitch exorcised me! I feel weird Salazar what’s she done?”

 

Salazar gets up from the chair, “Who exorcised you?” He asked dangerously.

 

“That blonde haired witch! Tara! I got her name from the soldier’s head. She’s stronger than she looks, she beat me Salazar. I don’t know what she really is but it’s more than some mere witch.”

 

Salazar’s eyes darken at the news, “Well I think it’s time to send them a message they’ll never forget.” He walks over to Riley who’s still strapped to the table. “Don’t you?” He smirks.

 

Riley’s eyes snap open, “Yes Master Salazar.” He replied with his own smirk, as well as pure glowing green eyes and glowing green veins.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

They all woke up from their unconscious states the clock showed it was 2.30am.

 

Joyce & Dawn hugged Buffy, Anne, Spike & William, Hornet took out his phone and left the room, he returned 10 minutes later with a serious look on his face.

 

“I’ve just called the place holding Graham Miller.....he was just found in his cell...braindead.”

 

Everyone gasps at that, but Lawson looks upset, “If I’d have been paying attention he’d still be alive.”

 

“Nothing to blame yourself for mate, none of us saw that Serpent Warrior slip past us.” He said sincerely.

 

He nods, “I know but with how big it was I can’t believe I missed it.”

 

“They can be extremely sneaky & fast. Even If you did see it, you still might have been too late. In situations like this it’s best to wait until after the threat is dealt with to mourn and feel sorry for yourselves. Trust me on this.” Sirrus responds.

 

Xander didn’t like what he just said, “How can you say that? Like he didn’t matter?”

 

“Because in times of war that’s the way you have to be, I’m not saying he didn’t matter, but what use are you going to be if you can’t keep your head on straight? Salazar & Solomon aren’t going to care if you’re mourning or not, if they see an opportunity to hurt you they will.”

 

“I get that. I do. But you all seem to sound harsh & heartless when talking about it.”

 

“What do you expect us to sound like! You all may have lost friends in the past, Do you want to take a wild guess how many friends & allies we’ve had to bury? Hundreds! We remember them as they were, and we do the one thing they died for, stopping evil. Do you have any idea how many friends & allies we’ve lost and couldn’t find their bodies to bury? Again hundreds! Do you know how many friends & allies were in such a mess there was nothing left to bury? Again hundreds! We mourn, we cry, we hate ourselves because we survived and they didn’t, but we do it after the battle is over. Anything else would be an insult to their memory.” After his rant everyone noticed he had tears in his eyes, he turns and leaves the room.

 

Hornet loses it, “You just can’t keep your mouth shut can you? Just because you’ve fought evil for 5 years you must be under some impression that no one’s done it for longer. Just because you’ve lost friends you’re under the impression no fucker else has. How many of you even remembered Graham existed before today? Or was it an out of sight out of mind situation? You can’t even apologise to your friend for having fantasies about wanting to rape her, but we’re in the wrong for not shedding a tear over Graham? Lawson knew him less than you lot and he’s more broken up about him dying. So answer me this. You lot knew him where’s your tears?”

 

Xander snaps his mouth shut at that, the ones who knew Graham felt ashamed & guilty because they had forgotten he existed before today. Buffy & Anne looked at Xander in disgust, because Hornet was right he hadn’t apologised about his fantasies about raping them, but expected D.U.S.T. to be upset over someone they don’t know dying.

 

Anne decided to voice a thought, “Xander? You’re just looking for something to pin on D.U.S.T. no matter how small aren’t you? Because you think if you point out something it will get the attention off of you? I never expected them to be upset about Graham being killed, that would be the same as the police breaking down in tears at a murder scene. I can’t imagine how much death they see, but you were trying to point out they don’t care, that’s not the truth at all, of course they do, they’ve just learnt not to show it until the fights over. Something we can all learn from.”

 

Xander didn’t answer her questions, which was answer enough.

 

Giles began cleaning his glasses, “I agree with Anne completely. Although I believe Xander’s attempts to be more dark than anything else.”

 

“I’m not doing anything like that at all!” Xander said offended.

 

Giles whips his glasses off, “YES YOU BLOODY WELL ARE!!!! You must think me stupid Xander, something I do not appreciate at all. You’re giving in to the darkness in your soul! It’s whispering all these nasty little ideas in your head and you’re listening! You think I haven’t been paying attention? That it wasn’t the darkness putting the thought in your head to get yourself turned? Or to attempt to dust Spike? Or god forbid attempting to bespell Buffy into loving you? You’re again listening to it! It’s telling you ways to get out of accepting responsibility for your own actions, and telling you to blame everyone else instead and that’s exactly what you’re doing.”

 

“What do you mean? I’m accepting responsibility.” He says hurt.

 

Giles looks at him in disbelief, “And I’m the sodding tooth fairy.” He states sarcastically, “You are not accepting responsibility at all! Hornet hit the nail on the head, you still haven’t apologised to Buffy & Anne for the rape fantasies or lying about remembering. I personally had no idea that took place or I would have never gone along with it in the first place. I heard what you said in your anger earlier Xander, that and I quote ‘She would’ve gotten over my rape attempt, if everyone let her believe I didn’t remember, she’d be mine by now.’ The key word there is ‘MY’ meaning you acknowledge on some level you’re at fault also. Furthermore if I knew you still held this obsession for her I would have put a stop to it long ago. I’m guessing you never took my advice and told her did you?”

 

Xander’s eyes widened at that, making multiple people in the room look suspicious.

 

Buffy narrowed her eyes at Xander, “Tell me what Xander?”

 

He was sweating but kept his mouth shut, Giles decided to inform her.

 

“One day as I was returning to the library, it was during one of Buffy’s training sessions. I caught Xander with a camera, ready to take pictures of Buffy in her state of undress. It was the day she changed in the library do to the girls restroom being out of order. I took the camera and advised him to come clean, he assured me he’d done so. Which obviously appears to be another lie.”

 

Everyone glared at Xander, “So something else you’ve lied about! When will it stop Xander? If you don’t come clean and accept you’re in the wrong your soul will turn dark!” Buffy angrily ranted.

 

“I don’t know how to stop listening to it!” He snapped angrily.

 

“Stop being a pussy and accept you're wrong. It’s not that sodding difficult Harris!” Hornet sneered, “But I forgot when have you ever accepted you’re in the wrong? I get your parents are dicks Harris but you can’t keep using that as an excuse. You may not actually blame them publicly but you do mentally, and you expect everyone to cut you some slack because your childhood was tough. Newsflash you weren’t the only one with questionable parents! Buffy & Anne’s sent them to a sodding mental institution when she tried to tell them the supernatural was real. The poor girl was 15 and she’d just lost her watcher, but you don’t see her using that as an excuse do you?”

 

Multiple gasps echo round the room at the news, Joyce looked extremely ashamed & guilty. Buffy & Anne looked upset at the memories. Everyone else looked shocked. Xander looked as though he’d been slapped.

 

Hornet glances at Joyce, “Yes we know Joyce. We don’t actually blame you, we know Hank and his manipulations played a huge part in you agreeing.”

 

Joyce looked at the floor, “That maybe true, but I still agreed. If I knew the supernatural existed It would have been different. I fought to keep Buffy out of there, but Hank wasn’t having none of it.”

 

“We know. What makes it worse is an alternate version of Hank we met....knew. He knew the supernatural existed and sent Buffy to the institution anyway. He even knew we existed. The main reason that one sent that Buffy to the institution....was because he didn’t want a daughter who was a slayer. He didn’t want the trouble it would bring. We haven’t met this realities Hank, but it’s extremely likely he’s the same.”

 

Joyce, Buffy, Anne & Dawn’s eyes widened with betrayal at the news.

 

“Dad knew?” Buffy’s voice was full of betrayal.

 

Arkillius responds, “More than likely yes, as Sirrus mentioned earlier to Anne, most realities start out the same. In nearly everyone we went to you were chosen at 15 in L.A., then you came to Sunnydale. In nearly everyone we went to everyone else was pretty much the same, so even though we’ve only ever met one Hank, we have reason to believe they all knew.”

 

“I can’t believe it!” She exclaims, “How weird he acted when I told them I was the slayer makes sense now. Mom at least tried to question me about it, but dad instantly shut it down and said I needed help.” She was fumingly pacing.

 

“Knowing Hank he knew. That also explains why he was so adamant on sending Buffy to the institution.” Joyce said angrily.

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

Hank was pacing his cell angrily ranting to himself, “I knew her being the slayer would bring trouble to my door, and apparently D.U.S.T.’s here as well! They should have kept her in that institution like I told them to. Just because she kept pretending she wasn’t the slayer anymore they let her go!”

 

Salazar & Solomon were watching the security camera and they were fuming.

 

“That Bastard! We’re evil what’s his excuse?” Salazar snapped while pacing.

 

“I don’t know, but I think the slayer needs to see this. Don’t you?”

 

“Yes I bloody well do! What a wanker!”

 

A nearby demon couldn’t keep his mouth shut, “What’s the big deal Masters? She’s our enemy isn’t she?”

 

They both span around to glare at him, “Yes! She’s our enemy, but if there is one thing The Serpent Family hold above all else, it’s loyalty to family! We don’t stand for betrayal from the bloodline!” Solomon said venomously.

 

The demon nodded and backed off in fear. Evil Riley was watching the screen, “What’s the plan Masters? It will definitely hurt sending Buffy this, so it’s a win win situation. We hurt her and expose her father’s betrayal.” He finishes with a smirk.

 

“We send her the tape. It will have some of Solomon’s truths on their as well.” Salazar finishes with a smirk.

 

At that moment Hanson ran in the room, “Masters! We have all the ingredients for the first ritual. We’re very close on the final ingredients for the second one.”

 

Salazar & Solomon had dark grins at hearing that, “Excellent! We’ll wait till daylight. The ritual with have the most obvious effect then.” Salazar explained ecstatic.

 

Hanson nods and walks out.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

They’d all calmed down when Dawn spoke, “Hornet? Who did Sirrus lose? It was someone close to him wasn’t it?”

 

He looks down at the floor, “It was. For you to understand, you need to hear his history. Sirrus was born in 2017.” Multiple people gasped at the news, “I know, that’s 17 years in the future. Verrocarth’s followers went after him as a baby, hoping to kill him before he got old enough to kill Verrocarth. He was saved and sent back in time to the planet Wrostalix. The Wrostallyons raised him as one of their own, his best friend & brother, by adoption, was called Diion. Diion was one of the first to join D.U.S.T. when Sirrus created it, he was with him millions of years fighting evil. Until he was killed in battle. We was there when it happened, Sirrus obviously didn’t take it well. He broke down in the middle of the battlefield, due to this other soldiers fell, and Sirrus was severely wounded. Sirrus blamed himself for their deaths, still does, he made a promise to himself and Diion’s memory. He promised he’d never breakdown during a battle again.”

 

Everyone was looking at him wide eyed, “I don’t know what I’d do if I lost someone I knew for millions of years. The same person I knew as a kid at that, I don’t think I could handle it.” Buffy said shocked.

 

“I know. It took him years to properly recover.”

 

They were all silent after that, until Bedlam spoke to Tara, “Tara? How did you manage to take on Solomon like that?”

 

She furrowed her brow, “I’m not r-really sure. I just f-f-felt this amazing source of p-power flow through me, and I knew I c-c-could do it.”

 

“You didn’t even stutter earlier, you were so confident. I’ve never seen you that confident before.” Anne said honestly.

 

Bedlam looks at her thoughtfully, “We’ll have to figure it out another time. Solomon was scared of you. He doesn’t scare easy.”

 

Giles looks at the time it was 3.30am, “I suggest we all sleep on it. It’s late and we need to be well rested. I don’t imagine Salazar & Solomon will let this defeat stand without comeuppance.”

 

They all nod and get ready to sleep.

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

It was 11am and they were getting ready for the ritual, “It’s time to begin.” Salazar said with a smirk.

 

Solomon chuckles, “They won’t know what hit them.”

 

Some of the minions stood in a circle holding candles, Salazar began to chant in an unknown language.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

They were all up and gathered in the kitchen at 11.30am, the alarms sounded making them all run towards the living room. The screen came on and they all gasped.

 

“The eclipse from my slayer dream.” Buffy said terrified.

 

They all looked at the screen as shadows began to engulf the sun, “What do we do?” Andrew asked with a tremor in his voice.

 

“We prepare. Salazar’s began the first stage of the apocalypse.” Sirrus said in complete seriousness.

 

They all watched on in fear as the last of the light from the sun disappeared.

Notes:

Riley’s been corrupted. Graham entered & died. Salazar’s began the apocalypse. New information for our heroes. Hank knew the supernatural existed. More of Sirrus’s history is revealed, and Tara defeated Solomon, but what is she? How come she could scare him?

Like the other chapters, this is all done by me. Let me know what you think.

Chapter 10: Chapter 10 - Ghost Town

Notes:

More information revealed in this chapter, as well as more uncomfortable truths.

Another confrontation takes place between Salazar, Solomon & our heroes.

The reason for Tara’s power surge comes to light, making her question everything she's ever known.

Xander gets a wake up call at the end of this chapter, but the reason leaves humanity damaged, with this extremely dark event, the world will never be the same again.

Characters updated with this chapter.

Downtown, Sunnydale, California

 

The panic seemed to have finally set in, people were fleeing the Hellmouth left right & centre. It was 12pm, but due to the eclipse it was dark.

 

Cars honking at each other, people hanging out the windows telling the people in front to ‘Hurry The Hell Up!’ even some of the harmless demons were running.

 

Salazar & Solomon were watching from a nearby roof, “Well they aren’t stupid after all, but running won’t help. I’m going to burn this sodding earth.” Salazar said with complete seriousness.

 

“Yes, they really have no idea what they’re in for.”

 

“The other ritual should be ready by later tonight. Then the damage will be set in stone.”

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

Sirrus was pacing the main room of the safehouse, everyone else was sitting in silence. Hornet comes back in the room as he hangs up the phone.

 

“Antinin's just called. They’ve nearly tracked down the denial demon.”

 

Sirrus stopped pacing, “Good, we can’t remove Salazar without killing that demon. Solomon’s also a problem, but we can’t kill him while he’s possessing Ben.” He addresses the rest of the rooms occupants, “The rest of you be warned though, if we have too we’ll kill Ben to stop Solomon. One life doesn’t outweigh the lives of thousands.”

 

Xander looks shocked at that, “What? You’re telling me you could kill an innocent?”

 

“If we have to yes. you tell me, if you had no other choice, would you kill Ben to save thousands? Or kill thousands to save Ben? And there’s only one right answer to that.”

 

“But we aren’t in that situation!”

 

Hornet’s rage boiled, “YES WE FUCKING ARE!!! You’re still living in a fantasy! We have to make hard decisions like that! We don’t have the luxury of picking what evil to kill like you fuckers do! Salazar & Solomon won’t wait for you to catch up. You have to understand if you ever remotely hesitate, they’ve got you. They’ll use your hesitation to their advantage. I guarantee you they’re already starting on the next stage of the apocalypse. If you hesitate you WILL die. You’re still struggling to comprehend how evil they actually are. The Angelus you dealt with? He’s a puppy dog compared to the evil shit they’ll do. You want to know something we haven’t told you yet? An evil Angelus ended up in Salazar’s world, we don’t know how, but Salazar tortured him enough to turn him insane.”

 

Everyone’s eyes widened at that, “He turned an Angelus insane?” Darla asked terrified.

 

“Yeah that’s what we’re dealing with, someone who can turn someone like Angelus insane. What Xander’s problem is he’s still in denial, he knows they’re dangerous & evil, but because they’re human he won’t accept how dangerous & evil they really are. He really has no idea how much danger he’s in.”

 

“What’s that supposed to mean? I already know they’re after me. What other danger am I in?” Xander asked confused.

 

“They know about you lying about remembering trying to rape Buffy you moron. She used to see you as a brother, Giles and Willow aren’t safe either. You all spent your time lying to her and trying to control her. She sees you 3 as family, there’s one thing The Serpent Family won’t stand for, and that’s betrayal of family. I hope to god they don’t find out about Joyce & Hank sending her to the institution, With them two being actually related by blood they’ll see that as the ultimate betrayal.”

 

Xander, Willow, Giles & Joyce’s eyes widened in fear.

 

Clem looked confused, “With what you’ve told us about their history how can they be mad?”

 

“The stuff The Serpent Family did to their youngers growing up was out of love and protection. I know it was fucked up but that family’s had enemies since the dawn of humanity, most of their enemies wouldn’t think twice about taking one of the Serpent children. The one thing they’ve never done is betrayed each other.”

 

Xander looked at him accusingly, “You told us people with dark souls can’t love, and The Serpent Family have them.”

 

Bedlam interrupts, “Shows you weren’t paying attention. We told you it’s impossible to love with dark souls, and that’s true, but if you were paying attention we told you they’ve figured out a way to keep ALL of their emotions. You’re doing it again, trying to find something we’ve done wrong or lied about. Ever wonder why no one else called us on that? Because they were listening.”

 

Xander gaped for a second then just stayed silent.

 

Buffy raised her hand, “Back to your earlier question. I’d kill Ben to save thousands, I wouldn’t have done it before but you’re right, one life doesn’t outweigh the lives of thousands.”

 

Everyone else except Xander nodded along, Sirrus spoke up again, “That’s the right answer. As we said sometimes you don’t have a choice, it doesn’t make you evil for killing one to save the many. It makes you a hero, because you made the hard decision, and because of that decision thousands of people get to go home to their families, being a real hero is knowing when you have to do the right thing, and then doing it. The mistake a lot of people make is the right thing, doesn’t always mean the nice thing.”

 

Xander shakes his head in denial, “That doesn’t sound like a hero to me.”

 

Hornet scoffs, “You don’t know what a real hero is Harris. Let’s put it in a way you can understand, let’s say Ben’s married, how do you think his wife would feel if you told her you let thousands die to save her husband? How do you think Ben would feel if thousands had to die so he could survive? Say you were in Ben’s position and you’re the one possessed, how would you feel if thousands had to die for you to live?” He pins him with a venomous glare, “And you best answer that correctly, we’ve lost friends who sacrificed themselves so others could live.”

 

Xander’s eyes widened in understanding, “You’re right, I get it. I’ve been expecting everyone to come out of this alive, and that’s not going to happen is it? Some people in this room will die won’t they?”

 

“There’s an extremely high probability of that happening. I know it’s not what you want to hear, but If you go into battle thinking you’re going to survive then you won’t be fighting at your best. Although if you go into it knowing there’s a chance you’ll die, you will be fighting at your best.” Sirrus responds.

 

They all nodded their understanding, then Wesley had a question.

 

“You said those Serpent Warriors in Riley’s mind weren’t as powerful as the real thing. How much more dangerous are they? Because I’m under no pretences that we won’t eventually see the real thing.”

 

“Extremely dangerous, for one thing they won’t be nowhere near as easy to kill. They’re The Serpent Family’s most trusted followers for a reason, yes you heard correctly followers not minions.” Arkillius informs them.

 

Buffy’s eyes widen, “They look at The Serpent Family as gods don’t they?”

 

“Pretty much. The Order of The Serpent have multiple species & races in their numbers, They’ve followed The Serpent Family since the dawn of humanity.”

 

“How far does it’s influence reach?” Giles asked curiously.

 

Arkillius, Hornet, Bedlam & Sirrus glance at each other, Bedlam steps forward.

 

“Put it this way, we wouldn’t be surprised if this multiverse had members of The Order of The Serpent already here.”

 

Giles looked dumbfounded, “You mean The Serpent Family’s followers could have been here long before Salazar arrived?”

 

“Yes, we’ve been to other multiverse’s where that’s the case. They believed that The Serpent Family would arrive there and cause unspeakable damage. That’s happening here.”

 

“That’s bad. What do you think phase 2 of the apocalypse is? Could it be the Hellmouth?” Anne asked scared.

 

“We don’t know. I don’t think it will be the Hellmouth...yet.”

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

It’s 1pm and most of the minions are gathered in the main room.

 

Salazar’s looking at the parchment in his hand, “We’re only missing two ingredients, once we have them the second phase begins.”

 

Solomon’s sat at the table with his feet up, “Good, the minions seem shocked how quickly we’re moving.” He chuckles, “It’s pretty obvious that the bad guys from this multiverse take too long.” A minion looks at him questioningly, he sighs and addresses the minion, “The quicker you throw the stages out there the longer it takes for the good guys to catch up.”

 

The minion nods his understanding.

 

Riley walks in, “Masters, what do you require of me?”

 

“That box on the table, take it and put it somewhere the goody goods can find it.” Salazar responds and points at the box without even looking at Riley.

 

Riley nods, “Understood Masters.” He picks up the box and leaves the building.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

Wesley was in the middle of showing Giles his notes, Giles looked ecstatic to learn about the differences between realities & universes.

 

Anne decides to ask a question that’s been on her mind, “Sirrus? You said mom didn’t die in the realities you’ve been to. If she was still alive there that is, so what happened to change it?”

 

Sirrus shrugs, “We don’t know. All we know for certain is that Joyce never ended up with a tumour in the realities we visited.”

 

Jonathan looked thoughtful, “I have a theory why that could be.”

 

“Tell us your theory, you were spot on with William’s location.”

 

“Well, the realities you went to were before the monks sent the key correct?” They nod, “OK my theory revolves around the possibility that all the Glory’s know who you are. In this reality I think the monks may have rushed the spell, let’s say Glory was closing in on them. The difference in the other realities may have been the fact you was there or had been there, so Glory didn’t attack the monks because she feared you returning. Meaning the monks had time to do the spell properly, without Glory’s interference, and as a result there was no side affect to the spell, meaning there was no tumour.”

 

Everyone looked at him amazed, Anya spoke up, “It’s more than a possibility that all the Glory’s know D.U.S.T., they do know them. All the D’Hoffryn’s know them.”

 

Giles was writing it all down, “Fascinating theory Jonathan. I’m going to agree with Anya, Arkillius himself has faced a Glory in the past. So it’s not hard to believe they all know them.”

 

Sirrus nods impressed, “That’s the most likely scenario, well done Jonathan, I’m impressed.”

 

“Thank you. I’m glad I could help.”

 

The alarm sounding drew their attention to the screen, where they all gasped at what they saw. It was Riley but he had glowing green eyes & veins, he was also carrying a box.

 

After he placed the box in the magic box he left, “What’s wrong with Riley?” Xander asked shocked.

 

“That’s no longer the Riley you knew. Salazar’s corrupted him. I’m so sorry but there’s no way to reverse it. The next time you cross Riley, you will have to kill him.”

 

Everyone’s eyes widened at that, “There’s no way? At all? I don’t want to have to kill him.” Buffy asked worriedly.

 

“No, I’m sorry there’s no way. We had to kill people corrupted by him before. You remember what The Serpent Warriors look like?”

 

“Yeah how could I forget?”

 

“That’s eventually what Riley’s going to turn into. Only ten times worse, and about 12ft tall.”

 

Her eyes widened, “So he has to die?” she asked in defeat.

 

Hornet snaps, “You struggling with the basic concept of YES? How many times do you have to be told he needs to die? If there was a way to fix it some of our friends would still be here! YES, YES, AND FUCKING YES he has to die. You all need to fucking listen! It’s Finn & Harris’s fault Salazar’s here to begin with. You weren’t much help, being the perfect girlfriend and letting him continue to be a dick. If I was acting like him I’d expect my wife to kick my arse not put up with it. We kept telling you the more you underestimate them the more offended they get, and the more they step up the evil shit they do.” He stormed out the room after his rant.

 

Buffy had a hurt expression at his words, “I didn’t mean to offend him. I just don’t like the thought of having to kill Riley.”

 

“You should have thought about that before dating him and involving him in this life then shouldn’t you?” Arkillius responds heatedly then follows Hornet.

 

Buffy had tears in her eyes, “What have I said? Something I’ve said upset them.”

 

Sirrus sighs, “Salazar did the same thing to a 7 year old boy, we searched high & low for a cure, or a way to fix it. There wasn’t one. Hornet eventually had no choice but to put a bullet in the boy’s head. He was sick afterwards then went catatonic, Bedlam entered his mind to bring him back. It turns out Salazar did it knowing we’d have no other choice but to kill the boy, he took great pleasure in Hornet’s emotional & mental pain. Hornet got offended when you kept asking, because to him you were making it sound like we didn’t look hard enough. Believe me we did, Hornet didn’t sleep for 2 weeks hoping to find a cure. I’ve never seen him as destroyed as the day he had to put a pistol against the boys head and pull the trigger. He was sobbing, it was the first time I’d ever seen him cry.”

 

Everyone was pale and wide eyed at the news, they all looked the direction hornet went with understanding in their eyes.

 

“I’m so so sorry. I didn’t mean it, I hope I haven’t ruined a possible future friendship.”

 

“No you haven’t, Hornet knows you weren’t being offensive, but with the Hornet DNA he’s more prone to lose his cool and lash out.”

 

She nods her understanding, Giles speaks up, “Salazar’s getting worse the more I hear of him, if what Wesley says is true and something is indeed keeping him alive. Well I can’t think of a good enough reason, so the entity responsible must have it’s own evil plans in place, and Salazar must play an integral part in said plans.”

 

Sirrus nods, “Well D.U.S.T. have to investigate that possibility, we’ll wait until Salazar & Solomon’s dealt with.” He turns to Bedlam, “Bedlam? Go and see what Finn’s left behind.”

 

Bedlam nods and teleports out of the room. Hornet & Arkillius re-enter the room and Buffy apologises.

 

“Hornet? I’m so sorry, I didn’t know what you had to do. I wasn’t trying to offend you, in the future when you say there’s no way to do something I’m going to listen the first time.” She said apologetically.

 

He nods, “Thank you. I don’t really blame you because you didn’t know, but that’s just a taste of how evil Salazar is.”

 

“We need to stop him, before it’s too late. Who knows what else he’ll do.”

 

“Usually we do, but he’s testing you specifically. He’s seeing what it takes to affect you.” Arkillius responds.

 

Bedlam teleports back in the room with the box, “It’s got a video tape, fingers & a tongue inside it.”

 

“Fingers & a tongue? Who’s are they?” Faith asked worried.

 

“Hopefully this tape will tell us.”

 

He walks over and puts it in the video player.

 

******

 

Video Footage – Start

 

Hank’s tied to a chair, “What do you want with me? I always knew Buffy being the slayer would come back to bite me!”

 

Salazar looks at him in disgust, “You betrayed your own bloodline? That’s disgusting.”

 

“I don’t care! She’s the reason I’m here in the first place!”

 

Solomon walks into shot, “That is true, but last time we checked she didn’t choose to be a slayer. Maybe having a father like you is the reason she allowed a perverted old vampire to take her virginity.”

 

“What do you mean?”

 

He shrugs, “She has daddy issues. She likes getting fucked by paedophiles because off them. How’s it feel Hank? Knowing your daughter essentially got raped by a paedophile, because of you?”

 

“You’re lying. Buffy’s done a lot of things but Joyce wouldn’t allow that to happen.”

 

Riley walks into the room, “Sorry to burst your bubble old man, but I was Buffy’s TA in college. She practically opened her legs for me, must have been because I was like an adult. Joyce allowed it, the stuff she’s letting your daughter do is disgusting. Buffy’s got a new vampires dick to ride.”

 

“No! I know slayers are drawn to vampires. I thought sending her to the institution would stop that happening.”

 

Salazar looks at him in disbelief, “You really despise your daughter don’t you Hank? You didn’t defend her once.”

 

“What’s that matter to you? She’s nothing but a trouble causer.”

 

Solomon looks at him intently, then begins laughing, “Oh! That’s rich! That’s the reason you’re such a dick, hahaha.”

 

Salazar raises an eyebrow, “Care to share the joke with the rest of the class Granddad?”

 

“His souls turned dark.” He bursts out laughing again.

 

Salazar smirks at Hank, “Well that explains a lot.” He walks over and stands directly in front of him. “What do you reckon your daughter would say if she knew?”

 

Hank scoffs, “I doubt she even knows dark souls exist. Probably taking everything The Watchers Council says as gospel.”

 

“I blew The Council up.”

 

He shrugs, “And? It’s not like I care, she might actually be able to think for herself for once.”

 

“You really are a piece of work. We have dark souls too, but we care about family.”

 

“Yeah well you’re just a bunch of freaks.”

 

Salazar’s eyes turn black, and he proceeds to cut Hank’s fingers off one by one, then he cuts his tongue out.

 

“I’ll like to see you chat shit now! Just for that I’m keeping you alive. We’re going to have such fun with you.”

 

Video Footage – End

 

******

 

Buffy, Anne, Joyce & Dawn had tears running down their cheeks when the tape ended.

 

“Those fingers and that tongue belong to dad.” Buffy said distraught.

 

“I can’t believe his soul turned dark. No wonder he eventually started turning nasty.” Dawn added on just as distraught.

 

“I don’t won’t to make it worse, but you need to know. When someone’s soul turns dark they usually tell you what they think.” Sirrus said apologetically.

 

Buffy & Anne began sobbing at that, “So that’s what dad actually believed?” Anne asked sobbing.

 

William & Spike took them in their arms. Hornet responds.

 

“Pretty much yeah, the only reason Angel didn’t say what he actually thought because he was manipulating you all, and he probably thought it was his demon.”

 

“I can’t believe I never realised. Dad was amazing when I was younger, but he started changing, and I never thought of what Angel was doing as manipulation.” Buffy says from the safety of Spike’s arms.

 

Bedlam took pity on them, “Salazar & Solomon are keeping him alive, meaning there’s a chance we can save him, but be warned, even if we do we can’t cure his dark soul, like Angel he has to do it himself.”

 

Buffy, Anne, Dawn & Joyce nodded and thanked him.

 

Hornet looked thoughtful, “There was always something some of the other Buffy’s did that rubbed me the wrong way. I could never figure out why they did it, but I’m guessing you & Anne did the same thing, so maybe you can explain it?”

 

“What?” Buffy & Anne asked simultaneously.

 

“You used to treat Spike by human standards, but you treated Angel by vampire ones, Angel has a human soul so why was he never treated by human standards?”

 

Buffy & Anne’s eyes widened at that, “I don’t know. Maybe it was because Spike acted more human than Angel did.” Anne responded thoughtfully.

 

Hornet looked thoughtful again, but Xander looked confused, “What do you mean? We never treated Spike by human standards.”

 

Hornet scoffs, “Of course you bloody well did. You kept telling him it’s wrong to kill people, like he was doing it for the fun of it. Newsflash Harris, he was doing it for food, the same reason you kill pigs, fish, cows, chickens, sheep shall I continue? At least he was only killing one species for food.”

 

Everyone’s eyes widened at that, “But it is wrong to kill people!” Xander exclaims.

 

He raises an eyebrow, “It’s wrong in human law Harris, he’s not human as you keep pointing out, so why should he follow human laws? He’s following our laws, Nowhere in D.U.S.T. does it state it’s illegal for vampires to feed. It’s common knowledge that if we see them killing someone we’ll get involved.”

 

“Why haven’t you made it illegal?” Xander asked outraged.

 

“Why haven’t your government made killing animals for food illegal? We caught an alternate Buffy pulling a disgusted face at the fact her Spike had to drink blood, you have no clue how much that irritated us. Unlike you lot Spike doesn’t have a vegetarian option, it’s still blood human or animal. You looking disgusted at his food source is technically a hate crime. Tell me something, If you were enjoying a nice bacon cob and a vegan or vegetarian told you it was disgusting or wrong what would your response be?”

 

Everyone was speechless at that, Buffy eventually spoke, “I never thought of it like that before. Spike has to drink blood, but we don’t need to kill animals to eat. Before you just pointed out the hypocrisy I would have told them to leave me alone.”

 

Xander found his voice, “But bacons nicer than the vegetarian option.”

 

Hornet snorts, “Now you know why most vampires go for human blood and not animal, because it’s nicer.”

 

“But...But..”

 

“No buts Harris, if you got told by a vegan your food choice was wrong and disgusting, you could walk away. Spike on the other hand, that poor bastard was your lots prisoner. He had to hear off you all how disgusting his food source was, and he had to put up with it, because he couldn’t leave.”

 

Buffy, Anne, Giles, Willow and even Xander had the decency to look ashamed. Bedlam decides to blow their minds.

 

“Do you know how many vampires from this multiverse joined D.U.S.T.? Thousands.”

 

“What?” Buffy asked shocked.

 

“Yeah, there’s actually quite a lot of vampires here who are good, and if you dare ask why you haven’t met them I’m going to knock your teeth down your throat. You lot made it clear in the past vampires weren’t welcome, so obviously they didn’t go to you. Did you know there’s a lot of vampires here who order blood off us? Did you know there’s a mini dimension close by that holds a city full of mostly vampires? Spike’s brothers founded it.”

 

Everyone gasped at that, “My brothers founded a city just for vampires?” Spike’s voice was full of amazement.

 

“Well kind of, it’s a sanctuary but it mostly has vampires there.”

 

“But you told us Spike’s brothers killed slayers, so how are they good?” Xander asked angrily.

 

Hornet interrupts, “You tried to rape one but you think you’re good! And yes Spike’s brothers killed slayers, out of defence, the slayers attacked them first.”

 

Xander ignored the jab, “But you never said that! You just told us they killed slayers.” He snapped outraged.

 

“And you’re the ones who automatically thought it was something evil, I was proving a point. Tell you a human killed someone, or you did due to your ignorance, you have an excuse. Yet we tell you a vampires killed someone and you’re already on the evil demon train before we’ve finished the sodding sentence.”

 

Xander’s anger took a nosedive at that, but he couldn’t stay silent, “But I can’t seem to accept demons can be good.”

 

Arkillius interrupts, “That’s because you’re looking for a perfect scapegoat, and if you want to get technical vampires aren’t demons.”

 

“What?” Xander asked gobsmacked.

 

“What’s it mean to be a demon? Anyone?”

 

Joyce looks thoughtful, “Well if you go by religion they’re from hell.”

 

“Yes that’s correct.” He turns to the vampires, “Spike, William, Lawson, Angelus, Angel? do any of you remember hell?”

 

They all shook their heads no.

 

“Meaning they’re not from hell Meaning they’re not demons. Vampires weren’t demons to begin with, just because they have demon DNA in them doesn’t make them demons. If it did Buffy, Anne & Faith would be demons too.”

 

Buffy, Anne & Faith’s eyes were as wide as saucers, everyone else looked shocked at the news, but obviously Xander didn’t want to believe it.

 

“Buffy’s not a demon!” Xander snapped angrily.

 

Hornet sighs, “Then vampires aren’t, or werewolves for that matter. You need to get over your Buffy obsession, because you sure as hell don’t love her, you just want the superhero girlfriend to show off so you become important, you’re still going to be a pussy Harris, doesn’t matter who you date.”

 

Xander looked shocked by his words.

 

He chuckles, “What? Didn’t think I knew why you wanted her did you? When I refer to you as a pussy it’s because you are one, real men own their shit. You won’t own yours you’re always looking for a way out. Do you know what’s Ironic? The fact if you came clean with Buffy to begin with she might have seen you as boyfriend material, if it wasn’t illegal of course.” He opens a bottle of water and begins drinking it.

 

Anne looked put off by the idea, “No thanks. I never found him even remotely attractive, and like hell I’d pick him over William. I mean have you seen this?” She points at William, “Complete hottie, I usually get hot just being in the same room as him.”

 

Hornet spat the water out laughing, the rest of the room nearly laughed because of Hornet’s reaction, Buffy looked at Anne in amazement, but Xander looked hurt.

 

“Same here, only with Spike.” Buffy adds on.

 

Oz raises his hand, “Can we get back to the part where werewolves aren’t demons?”

 

Sirrus explains as Hornet’s still choking on the water, “Werewolves like vampires came from another multiverse, and like vampires they got infected with demon blood and evolved to be a Human, werewolf, demon hybrid, but just like slayers & vampires, even though you have demon DNA in you you’re not a demon.”

 

Oz just looked amazed at the news, but Faith had a question of her own.

 

“Our demon DNAs what gave us our powers isn’t it?”

 

He nods, “Yeah, if Buffy hadn’t been lying to herself for years she would’ve realised she has more in common with demons than humans.”

 

Xander looked angry at the thought, “She doesn’t have anything in common with demons!” He snapped.

 

“Yes she does, she likes killing things, she gets restless if she doesn’t kill things, she’s practically nocturnal as it is. The only reason you don’t want to accept that is because you don’t want to accept your attraction to demons, Buffy acts a lot like Hornet does. They’re so similar in fact that D.U.S.T. classes slayers as demonically enhanced mutants.”

 

Giles looks thoughtful, “Yes, I would say that classification on slayers fits rather well.”

 

Wesley nods, “As would I.”

 

Buffy leaned against Spike’s chest as he lent against the wall, “Yeah, I think that fits too. You’re also right I do enjoy killing things, I never would have admitted to that before this whole Salazar situation though.”

 

Anne nods, “I wouldn’t have either. I like the thought of being a type of mutant, it explains where the power comes from, and it explains why we’re pretty much human before being called.”

 

“You aren’t really human as a potential neither.” Bedlam informs her.

 

Buffy, Anne & Faith looked confused by this so he explains.

 

“Potentials have a defence mechanism, of sorts, when you’re in a life or death situation it kicks in. The knowledge of how to fight is ingrained in potentials too, but you don’t realise its there until you’re called.”

 

“Oh that actually makes sense.” Buffy says with a nod.

 

******

 

Brazil, South America

 

Drusilla’s stuff was gathered together ready for the trip.

 

“I need to help my Spike & the Angel beast. Those nasty Serpents will ruin everyone’s fun, Miss Edith won’t stand for it. Mummy’s coming to help my dark prince, just hold on.”

 

With one last look at the blacked out sun she began her journey.

 

******

 

Cleveland, Ohio

 

They were ready for the trip, the seer told them the eclipse originated in Sunnydale California.

 

“You up for this?”

 

He shrugs, “What’s another apocalypse with how many we’ve stopped?”

 

He shrugs in return, “Nothing much but apparently D.U.S.T. are involved.”

 

A woman in her twenties walks up to them, “The supernatural governments involved? That means whoever started this is extremely dangerous.”

 

“Yeah they are. Time to save the world again.”

 

Four occupants climbed in the car and began the journey to California.

 

******

 

Unknown Location, Nevada

 

He steps out of the bar looking up at the sky.

 

“It’s time. Evils afoot and needs to be stopped.”

 

He begins his journey to the Hellmouth.

 

******

The Senior Partners Dimension

 

“They destroyed the Los Angeles branch of Wolfram & Hart. This is not acceptable, they must pay. You’re our most trusted, don’t fail us.” The Wolf commanded.

 

He nods, “You have nothing to worry about Masters. I’ll deal with the Serpents & the slayers if they get in my way.” He turns and exits through a portal.

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

It was 5pm the minions were gathered around the main room.

 

Salazar walks in, “One more ingredient and phase two begins. I think it’s time to celebrate.”

 

He walks out and his minions follow.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

It was 5.30pm they were all sitting around when the alarm sounded.

 

They all looked towards the screen, Salazar, Solomon & Riley’s shell were stood outside the magic box with hundreds of minions, Buffy, Anne, Joyce & Dawn gasped as Solomon dragged Hank out of the crowd.

 

“Come on Buffy I know you’re watching. Daddy dearests insides are going to be all over the pavement if you don’t come out.” Salazar’s voice came through the screen.

 

“I’m not stupid I know it’s a trap, but he’s my dad.” Buffy said to the room.

 

Sirrus nods, “We need to be careful.”

 

She nods, “OK let’s go.”

 

Multiple people leave the safehouse.

 

“Did you fix her Willow?” Giles asks curiously.

 

She nods, “She’s ready.”

 

“Good.”

 

******

 

Downtown, Sunnydale, California

 

Sirrus, Arkillius, Hornet, Bedlam, Spike, Buffy, Anne, William, Lawson, Angelus, Angel, Faith, Ethan, Oz, Gunn, Doyle, Kate, Tara & April step out of the shop.

 

Salazar looks surprised, “You fix the robot. No matter, Let’s do this.”

 

They all charge, Sirrus & Bedlam take on Solomon, Hornet & Arkillius take on Salazar, Buffy & Anne take on Riley, while the rest take on their minions.

 

Kate pulls out her pistol and takes out 13 of the human minions, Doyle turned into his demon form, Oz wolfed, Ethan was throwing spells left right & centre, April was taking on some of the demons, But Tara was glowing again.

 

Tara casts a spell which disintegrates most of the minions, this brings Salazar & Solomon’s attention to her.

 

“What are you? You’re more than a witch.” Salazar practically growled out.

 

She turns and looks at them both, “Someone who will stop you.” There wasn’t a trace of fear in her voice.

 

Salazar & Solomon choose to attack her, they break off from their battles and charge her.

 

To everyone’s amazement she charges back, she takes them both on, and to make matters more incredible, she’s winning.

 

Tara backhands Solomon, then spin kicks Salazar causing him to stumble, after he rights himself Salazar throws a fireball at her, only she catches it like it was nothing, Salazar & Solomon back off a couple of feet at that.

 

They both attack her again, this time working in sync, they’re doing much better now but Tara’s still holding her own.

 

Buffy & Anne were still dealing with Riley, “Riley! You have to stop.” Buffy pleads.

 

He smirks, “Now where’s the fun in that, I haven’t felt this good in years Buffy. I don’t even need the enhancements anymore, but it’s too late to stop us, Master Salazar & Master Solomon will end you all.”

 

“Riley please! You have to see what’s happening!” Anne pleaded.

 

“Oh but I do, I’m free. They have freed me Anne, I think it’s time to show you what I can do.”

 

Riley charges them both punching Buffy with enough force to break her nose, he jumps and elbow drops Anne’s shoulder dislocating it.

 

Anne backs away holding her shoulder her thoughts out of control, ‘Hornet’s right, we have to kill him, there’s no other way.’

 

Buffy punches him and he just shrugs it off, “That the best you’ve got? Or are you still holding back? You know I had a lot more fun fucking those vamp whores. I wonder if you’ll be able to keep Spike interested. I sure as hell wasn’t.”

 

Buffy & Anne’s faces turned outraged at that, they both attacked with the force of their anger, Anne was avoiding using her left arm as to not cause herself more pain. Buffy was fighting with everything she had, she punched, kicked, headbutted and more, the constant barrage off hits was forcing Riley back.

 

Riley in his anger grabs a cowering Hank and goes to slit his throat.

 

“NOOOOOOO!!!” they both scream in unison, Buffy runs forward and grabs the knife, after a bit of a struggle she pushes the blade into Riley’s throat. He backs off choking on his own blood, then he eventually falls to the ground dead.

 

Buffy backs off wide eyed with her hand covering her mouth, Anne grabs Hank and moves him to safety.

 

Spike who was free of enemies to fight sees the commotion, he runs over and takes Buffy in his arms, she puts her face against his chest and starts sobbing.

 

All the minions were dealt with, all that was left was Salazar & Solomon, who were both still fighting Tara.

 

Tara used a shockwave that knocked them back and to the ground, Salazar & Solomon got to their feet.

 

“Enjoy this victory while it lasts, phase 2 begins tonight.” Salazar said as he backed away holding his chest.

 

“I don’t know what you are witch, but I’ll be seeing you. Hope you enjoyed killing your ex slayer.” Solomon added on at first to Tara & then Buffy.

 

Buffy breaks out of Spike’s embrace, “You bastards! I’ll show you!” She screams at them.

 

Spike grabs her in a hug again, “It’s OK baby, we’ll stop them. I promise.” Buffy crumbled at that and her legs gave way, Spike followed her down to the floor still holding her in his embrace rocking her back and forth as she sobbed.

 

Salazar & Solomon laugh at her pain, then Salazar turns to green smoke and fly’s away, and Solomon teleports out of the area.

 

Sirrus looks at Riley’s body, “Bedlam? Bury him. We’ll have time for a proper funeral when this is over. Hornet? Get Antinin on the phone, tell him to step up the search for the denial demon. Killing that’s now our only hope of sending Salazar home.”

 

Bedlam & Hornet nod. Bedlam picks up Riley’s body an teleports away, Hornet takes out his phone.

 

Sirrus turns to Spike, “Spike? Bring Buffy we need to get back to the safehouse.”

 

Spike nods and picks Buffy up cradling her in his arms as he walks.

 

Sirrus turns to Anne, “Anne? You and William bring Hank. It’s not safe out here.”

 

Anne & William grab Hank then everyone goes back to the safehouse.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

They all enter the safehouse, Joyce & Dawn approach Buffy & Spike.

 

“Buffy honey?” Joyce asked worriedly.

 

“I killed Riley Mommy, they made me kill him.” Buffy responds sobbing.

 

“Oh Buffy, I know sweetheart. We’ll deal with Salazar & Solomon.”

 

She nods into Spike’s shoulder, “They have to pay.”

 

“And they will.” Sirrus responds determined.

 

“What do you think phase 2 is?” Lawson asked worriedly.

 

“I don’t know, but it can’t be good.”

 

Xander was still staring at the screen, “Riley’s dead. Buffy killed Riley.”

 

His words make Buffy cry harder, Arkillius glares at him, “She didn’t have a choice, He was going to kill Hank.”

 

“And? Hank’s got a dark soul! What’s it matter?” Xander asked angrily.

 

Buffy breaks out of Spike’s hold and punches Xander twice before Spike can grab her, “Stop! Buffy baby! You’ll kill him with your strength.” She instantly stops struggling at that and let’s Spike take her in his arms again.

 

Xander looked Hurt by Buffy’s attack, “What was that for?”

 

Everyone looked at him in disgust, but Arkillius answered him, “You deserved that! He’s still her dad you moron! And while we’re on the subject your souls going to be turning dark If you carry on the way you are, so does that mean we should kill you?”

 

Xander was left speechless at that, Bedlam teleported back in the room.

 

He looks at the bruise appearing on Xander’s cheek, “Let me guess, Harris said something to piss everyone off?”

 

They all nod, but Xander looks offended.

 

He sighs, “Why am I not surprised? Hornet’s got the reputation for being the offensive one, he’s even giving him a run for his money.”

 

Hornet entered the room at that moment, “What’s Harris done now?”

 

Xander throws his hands up offended, “Why do you automatically think I did something wrong?”

 

Bedlam & Hornet raise their eyebrow simultaneously, “Because you’re a complete wanker.” They respond in unison.

 

Xander just huffs and stays silent, Bedlam walks over to Anne, “Let’s fix your shoulder.”

 

She nods and William holds her still while Bedlam puts her arm back in place.

 

“3,2...” He puts her arm back in its slot on two.

 

“Ow Fuck!” She glares at him, “You only counted to 2.”

 

He shrugs, “Whoops?”

 

She just huffs crosses her arms then begins pouting, much to Bedlam & William’s amusement.

 

Bedlam then walks over to Buffy and heals her nose, “Thanks.” Buffy said gratefully.

 

“You’re welcome.”

 

Sirrus glances over at Hank, “Bedlam? See what you can do for Hank.”

 

He nods and walks over to Hank.

 

Sirrus turns to Hornet, “You called Antinin?”

 

“Yeah, there closing in it could take a few days, at max he said about 5.”

 

He nods, “It’s better than nothing.”

 

Giles was looking thoughtful at Willow, “What’s the main reason you won’t allow Willow to use magic? I know there’s more to it.” He asked curiously.

 

Bedlam was still working on Hank when he answered, “Because some retards let her first spell be putting Angel’s soul back.”

 

Giles looked confused, “I don’t see why her putting his soul back was the problem.”

 

He scoffs, “No you wouldn’t would you? You’re just the one with magical know-how Ripper. Her first spell was a curse on a Hellmouth, because she hadn’t had training where do you sodding think she’s pulling her power from?”

 

Giles’s eyes widened with realisation, “The Hellmouth. Willow’s pulling her power from the Hellmouth.”

 

Willow’s eyes widened in terror, “I don’t want my power to come from a Hellmouth.” She said panicked.

 

Bedlam does a quick glance at her, “That’s what I’m doing. You not using your powers cleansing the Hellmouths hold on you.”

 

She sighs in relief, “Thank you.”

 

“No problem.” He finishes with Hank and turns to face Giles, “What I really want to know, is why you let her do the curse? When you have more magical knowledge than she does. Buffy didn’t care who got caught in the crossfire back then, she just wanted her boyfriend back. Xander was too busy telling Buffy to ‘Kick His Ass’ when what Willow actually said was ‘Stall Him’ because she was already working on the curse. But we all know Xander don’t we? He was more bothered about getting between Buffy’s legs than repeating the Actual message. So Ripper why?”

 

Multiple things happened as a result of his speech, Xander’s eyes were as wide as sauces, Willow & Buffy were both glaring at him, and Giles looked ashamed.

 

“Honestly I didn’t think to do it. I didn’t even attempt it due to my own dark past.”

 

Ethan chuckles, “That doesn’t sound like the Ripper I remember.”

 

Giles glares at him, “You haven’t known me for a while Ethan.”

 

Bedlam interrupts, “Regardless if he knows you or not, do you think if the boot was on Ethan’s foot he would have allowed an untrained witches first spell to be a curse? Let alone allow her to cast it on a Hellmouth?”

 

Giles sighs, “No he wouldn’t have. Ethan may have been evil in the past, but he’d never allow that.”

 

“That’s what I thought.”

 

Buffy interrupts, “What did you mean earlier? When you said I didn’t care who got caught in the crossfire?” She asked hurt.

 

He raises an eyebrow, “Well you didn’t care. Can you honestly tell me you thought of the consequences of that spell? Or was all that was going through your head was you’d have Angel back?”

 

Buffy’s eyes filled with shame, “All I thought about was having Angel back.”

 

“Exactly.”

 

Xander couldn’t keep quiet, “How did you know what I told Buffy?”

 

He sighs, “We’ve met alternate versions of you. Do you all keep forgetting this?

 

Before Xander can speak Hank interrupts, “At least my daughter had the brains not to date you. Thank god for small miracles.”

 

Xander looked offended, but everyone else looked shocked, “I thought he had his tongue cut out.” Lindsey said in disbelief.

 

Hornet glances at Bedlam, “How the fuck did you do that?” He asked incredulously.

 

He shrugs, “Sirrus told me to see what I could do for him, so I used magic to fix his tongue & fingers back in place.”

 

Hornet sighs, “Of course you did.”

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

It was 6.30pm Salazar & Solomon were sat in the main room going over what happened.

 

“You were right granddad, Tara’s more than a witch. It makes no difference phase 2 of the ritual begins tonight. We’ll be one step closer.”

 

“Yes. Then we’ll make this world burn.”

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

They’ve all been listening to Hank rant for an hour, he thought he’d tell Xander everything that’s wrong with him, and why his daughter wouldn’t touch him.

 

“You’re nothing but a disgusting parasite, my daughter wouldn’t touch you. I didn’t want her with a vampire but I prefer Spike to you.” Hank snarled in Xander’s face.

 

Buffy’s about to stop him but a raised hand from Hornet stopped her, she looked at him confused, he sighs and walks over.

 

“Just let Hank keep ripping into him. He needs to see what he’ll be like if his soul turns fully dark.”

 

They all nod their understanding then turn to watch the show.

 

“You’re worthless, Buffy’s done better than you, Spike’s a man worthy of my daughter.”

 

Buffy looks amazed, “He’s telling the truth, with his dark soul he’ll say what’s on his mind.” She whispered in awe.

 

“Yeah he will.” Sirrus’s voice is full of amazement.

 

“What’s happening? You wouldn’t be amazed over nothing?” Spike asked curiously.

 

“We need to let him keep ranting. If I’m not mistaken his soul might be starting the cleansing process.”

 

Buffy, Anne, Joyce & Dawn’s eyes fill with hope.

 

Giles cleans his glasses, “How is that possible? You said it’s extremely rare.”

 

“It is. Two souls beginning to cleanse this close together? It’s unheard of. I don’t know what’s causing it.”

 

Bedlam glances thoughtfully at Tara at that, something some of the occupants noticed but didn’t comment on.

 

They look back towards Hank, “I’m actually proud of her, she’s been able to hold those psychopaths off, of course you weren’t any help. I’ve had to listen to them saying they were going to enjoy making you suffer for bringing Salazar here. What the hell were you thinking?! Even I know not to make a wish that stupid!” He points at Angel, “And you! Sniff around my daughter again I’ll stake you, I wish....I’d have preferred her meeting Spike first. I made a lot of mistakes with my family something I’m going to regret for the rest of my life.” Hank’s chest begins to glow.

 

“It’s happening!” Anne says ecstatic.

 

After the glow dissipates he turns to Buffy, “Buffy sweetheart I’m so sorry.” He holds out his arms and she runs into his arms sobbing. He signals that Joyce & Dawn should go too, to which they do, he then beckons Anne over, “I don’t care how you got here. You’re still my daughter.” She then begins sobbing and goes over to them.

 

After the tears finally stopped Hank turned to Sirrus, “How do I get my soul back to normal?”

 

“Angel’s in the same boat as you. Like I told him you need to do stuff for the right reasons, and avoid doing anything dark.”

 

He nods, “I don’t even know how it happened in the first place. I started feeling different then eventually it was like I didn’t care, I researched what was happening and I figured out my soul was turning dark, but it said I had to give into the darkness, and I didn’t.”

 

Sirrus shakes his head, “That’s not the only way, it’s the most common way, but not the only one. There is creatures whose bite can do it as well, but they’re not from this multiverse, doesn’t mean one didn’t get here though.”

 

Hornet looks thoughtful, “When did you start feeling different?”

 

He looks thoughtful himself, “I’d say about 8 years ago, why?”

 

Hornet’s eyes widened, “I was in L.A. 8 years ago. Sirrus sent me with a squad to hunt down a Shinshaar that came from another multiverse. This world’s where the rift opened.”

 

Giles fetched his notebook, “What’s a Shinshaar?”

 

“They’re closely related to the Wendigo, and I mean the paled skin versions not the furry ones. Shinshaar like to eat children, they go one step further than just mimicking human speech though. They can take the form of the last child they eat, they’re easy to spot at first because they can’t talk straight away, they have to be in that form for at least a week before they can mimic the voice. The longer they’re in that form the more convincing they become. They usually have a taste for the children of warriors or kids that will become warriors in the future. If a Shinshaar bites a adult human though it has a chance of releasing a toxin that will start to turn your soul dark.”

 

Hank, Anne & Buffy’s eyes widened, “That’s why it happened.” He said his voice full of realisation.

 

******

 

Los Angeles, California – 8 years earlier

 

Hank & Buffy were walking through the park, they were on the way home.

 

Buffy sees an ice cream cart, “Daddy? Can I have an ice cream please?”

 

He smiles down at her, “Of course sweetheart, just wait here.”

 

Buffy watches Hank walk away, a rustling from behind her makes her turn to see where the noise is coming from.

 

She sees a small boy, he looks about 10, “Hey are you lost?”

 

The boy just stares at her and doesn’t respond.

 

She frowns, “Are you OK? Do you need help?”

 

The boy just tilts his head still staring at her.

 

She began to get uncomfortable with his continued staring, “I can get my dad if you want? Maybe he can help?” She backs off a couple of steps, the boy takes a couple of steps forward, but he stops when she does.

 

“What do you want?” She asked feeling scared now. He lunges forward and grabs her arm, “DADDY!!!” She screams out.

 

Hank comes running only to see a young boy trying to drag Buffy in the bushes, “Hey! Let go of my daughter.” He grabs the boy, the boy releases Buffy but bites Hank’s hand. “Ow! Why you little...” He trails off as the boy turns and runs back into the bushes, he crouches in front of Buffy, “How are you sweetheart? Are you hurt?”

 

She shakes her head, “No, but he scared me I kept asking if he wanted help and he just kept staring at me.”

 

Hank looks towards the bushes thoughtfully, ‘Some demon best not be after my little girl.’ “He’s gone now let’s get your ice cream and go home.”

 

She nods and takes hold of his hand.

 

******

 

After the explanation Hornet nods, “Yeah I found the little bastard in the woods near there.”

 

“So this demons bite turned his soul dark?” Xander asked confused.

 

“Shinshaars aren’t demons they’re creatures, but yes it’s bite slowly made his soul go dark.”

 

“How did it get to our multiverse?” Wesley asked curiously.

 

“A random rift opened, giving it access. It’s rare that it happens, but it does.”

 

Wesley nods as he rights it all down, Buffy looked thoughtful, “Dad? How did you know the supernatural existed?”

 

Hank looks at the floor, “I used to be a monster hunter when I was younger.”

 

Everyone in the room was beyond shocked at the news.

 

“You did?” Joyce asked in disbelief.

 

“Yeah, I had a brother. He was killed by demons. I spent 10 years hunting down the ones responsible, after I killed them I tried to have a normal life, but I failed at first. Once you know what’s out there, especially if you used to fight it, well its hard to let go, I couldn’t make friends because I’d have to lie about my life, friendship isn’t built on deceit. The looks I used to get when I’d hear a bang at night and I’d pull out a dagger, not to mention when people would be too scared to enter a haunted building and I’d just walk straight in without a care in the world. I eventually met you Joyce, I mostly gave up the hunting life after that.”

 

“What do you mean mostly?” Buffy asked curiously.

 

Hank glances at Sirrus, “You’ve met Sirrus before Buffy.”

 

Buffy looked confused, “When? I think I’d remember it.”

 

“You did, but you thought it was a dream. He stopped Mr Smiley.”

 

Buffy & Anne’s eyes widened as the memory flooded their minds.

 

******

 

Buffy & Anne’s Flashback – Los Angeles, California – 17 years ago

 

She could hear a noise coming from her closet she looks up to see a pale man with a huge grin staring at her.

 

He reaches out to her and she moves further up the bed away from him.

 

All of a sudden the pale man’s grabbed from behind by another man, “I don’t think so mate.” The man then throws the pale man through a portal. He then walks over to her, and crouches near her bed.

 

“Hey your safe now. I’m Sirrus, what’s your name?”

 

She looks at the man called Sirrus, “Buffy. Is Mr Smiley gone? He can’t hurt me now, can he?”

 

He chuckles, “No Buffy, Mr Smiley can’t hurt you now. He’s gone forever.”

 

“Are you an Angel?”

 

“Thank you for the compliment, but no. I’m just a man who stops the monsters.”

 

“I want to stop monsters too, I’ll be just like you.”

 

“You can do anything. As long as you believe, it’s time for bed now Buffy, no monsters can get you now.” He tucks her in bed then turns to leave.

 

She sits up, “Thank you for saving me Sirrus.”

 

He smiles, “Nothing to thank me for. I’m just doing my job, Sweet dreams Buffy.”

 

She lays down, “Night, I hope I see you again.”

 

“You could. Only the future knows for sure.” He leaves through another portal as Buffy falls asleep.

 

Flashback – End

 

******

 

They both look at him in awe, “You saved me. Mr Smiley was going to take me and you stopped him.” Anne says amazed.

 

“Yeah I did.”

 

Buffy had a huge smile on her face, “I hoped I’d see you again and I have.” She runs and hugs him, she let’s go and backs off with a blush of embarrassment. “I’m sorry. After I never seen you again I thought I must have dreamed it, I eventually forgot it happened at all.”

 

He chuckles, “Nothing to apologise for. I was just doing my job.”

 

“You said that the night you saved me.”

 

“I know. I spoke to Hank after I left your room, had to use a portal though. Couldn’t have Joyce seeing a strange man leaving your bedroom. That would have been awkward.”

 

Buffy & Anne laughed at that, Xander looked at him suspiciously, “Why didn’t you say anything when you first got here? Why not tell her you saved her as a little girl?”

 

“Because that had nothing to do with Salazar, I didn’t save her as something to brag about, I saved her because it was the right thing to do.”

 

“OK I get that, but Hornet said none of you met this realities Hank before.” He says suspiciously.

 

Hornet interrupts, “Correction, I said We hadn’t met this realities Hank before. I was referring to Me, Bedlam & Arkillius, because unless you’ve forgot Sirrus wasn’t in the room at the time, and even if he was, he doesn’t tell us where he’s going every single time he leaves Headquarters. He’s our boss, so unless he chooses to tell us something it’s none of our business.”

 

Xander closes his mouth at that, not being able to think of a response.

 

Giles raises his hand, “Umm, If you don’t mind me asking who was Mr Smiley?”

 

“He was a bogeyman, we’d never met him before then so we went with the name Buffy gave him.” Sirrus explained.

 

Buffy looked surprised, “You called him Mr Smiley?”

 

He shrugs, “Yeah it fit. A creepy pale bloke in a suit with a massive shit eating grin.”

 

“Where is he now?” Darla asked curiously.

 

“Couldn’t figure out how to kill him so we locked him up, somewhere he’s never escaping.”

 

They nod, Tara takes a journal out of her bag, “Sirrus? I don’t know where my surge in power comes from, but my mom left me this.” She passes him the journal, “It’s in a language I don’t understand, but she told me when she died it would be needed....when the ‘Allies From Across The Void’ arrived.”

 

Sirrus looked confused, he opened the journal and his eyes widened, “You couldn’t read it because it’s written in Wrostallyon. The official language of the planet I grew up on.”

 

Everyone gasps at that, “How did my mother know Wrostallyon?” She asked incredulously.

 

Sirrus begins to read, eventually he started crying, “Venessdruss. Tara’s mothers Venessdruss.”

 

“Holy shit!” Bedlam exclaims.

 

“No way!” Hornet responds in disbelief.

 

“You’re serious?! Damn.” Arkillius asked shocked.

 

“Yeah, it’s a note to me.”

 

Tara looked confused, “Why’s my mother left a note to you?”

 

“She was one of his best friends, but something happened and she vanished. We all spent years looking for her, but eventually the trail went cold.” Bedlam informs her.

 

“You knew my mom?” Tara asked shocked.

 

“Yeah I did, for a long time. She helped us lock away The Masters of Evil.”

 

“She did? Who was she, I mean apart from my mom?”

 

“A God. Tara your mother was a god.” Bedlam informs her.

 

Everyone was left speechless at that.

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

It was 7.30pm and Salazar & Solomon waited for the second part of the ritual to be set up.

 

“It’s time. Soon no one will have the power to stop us.” Salazar said with a smirk.

 

“After this phase 3 begins.” Solomon added on.

 

After 5 minutes Hanson approaches them, “It’s ready Masters.”

 

Salazar picks up a parchment off a nearby table, “Good. Light the candles and let’s begin.”

 

Hanson nods, “You heard Master Salazar! Light the candles!” He ordered the other minions.

 

They nod and begin lighting them, Salazar walks over and the minions form a circle round him.

 

“Let’s begin.” He says and begins to chant.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

Before Tara could question them more about her mother the alarm sounded.

 

They all turned to the screen and their eyes widened, it was Los Angeles and the sky above it was ripping open.

 

“What’s happening?” Buffy asked panicked.

 

Sirrus stared wide eyed at the screen, “Phase 2.” Was his only response.

 

After the sky finished opening the life force started being drained out of every resident human & demon.

 

“No.” Sirrus whispers in horror.

 

“What is it?” Kate asked scared.

 

Before Sirrus could respond the residents of Los Angeles started to disintegrate before their very eyes.

 

Everyone turned pale, “What’s happening?” Xander asked his voice full of horror.

 

The screen showed the empty streets of L.A., there was nothing left alive the people & the demons were gone, all that was left was the ash that used to be the residents of Los Angeles. The sky sealed itself as the last of the life force passed through it.

 

“A sacrifice. Salazar’s just sacrificed all of Los Angeles.”

 

Everyone’s eyes filled with horror, “What on earth for?” Giles whispers in horror.

 

“Stygian. Salazar’s looking for his father.”

 

Terror joined the horror in their wide eyes.

Notes:

Riley’s dead, The Los Angeles residents are gone, Buffy met Sirrus before, Tara’s mother was a god, Hank’s been saved, April’s been fixed, and Salazar’s looking for his father.

Drusilla’s on her way to help our heroes, but who are the other 5? And who's The Senior Partners sent to get revenge?

Like all other chapters, this was all done by me. Let me know what you think.

Chapter 11: Chapter 11 - Ashes of Los Angeles

Notes:

This chapters shorter not by much though, I'm happy with it as it is, and I don’t want to add more than was necessary.

The first part of this chapter switches between two scenes, that’s why some locations aren't marked.

Buffy has a dream in this chapter, make sure to read the end notes so it makes sense.

Genres updated with this chapter.

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

Xander starts panicking, “Oh God! Oh God! Oh God! Oh God! Mine & Riley’s wish killed everyone in L.A., I’m so sorry. I’m an idiot it’s my fault, all of it.” He sits on the floor and starts rocking back & forth repeating ‘I’m sorry’ over & over again.

 

Sirrus ignores him, “Bedlam take Hornet, both of you go to L.A., see if anyone survived.”

 

They both nod and Bedlam teleports them out. Buffy’s still staring at the screen her face pale.

 

“Everyone? They’re all gone?” She asked with a tremor.

 

“I hope not. That’s what I’ve sent Bedlam & Hornet to figure out.” He turns to Arkillius, “Ark? Call Antinin, inform him what’s happened, tell him I want that denial demon found by any means necessary.”

 

Arkillius nods takes out his phone and leaves the room.

 

Kate looks away from the screen, “All my friends & family gone. If I didn’t come to Sunnydale with you I’d be dead too.”

 

Angel’s looking at the screen with a devastated look on his face, “All those people, gone. Salazar & Solomon will pay for this.” He growled out the last bit.

 

“Yes they will.” Sirrus said through clenched teeth.

 

Gunn’s in tears, “My old crew, they’re all gone.”

 

Hank sits down on the chair, he’s shaking and pale, “If Salazar’s minions didn’t kidnap me I’d be dead.”

 

Lorne looked destroyed, “I can’t believe it. All those people.”

 

Willow, Tara, Clem, Andrew & Jonathan were still staring at the screen in horror.

 

Lindsey looks sick to his stomach, “Oh God.” He muttered.

 

Darla looked scared, “I’ve never seen anything like it.”

 

Lindsey pulls her into a hug, “I haven’t either.”

 

Fred’s crying, “My mom & dad was in L.A.”

 

Wesley walks over to her, “I’m sorry Fred, if there’s anything I can do, feel free to ask.” Fred just throws her arms around him and continues crying. Wesley looked embarrassed for a second but ignored his embarrassment and hugged her back.

 

Cordelia was crying in Doyle’s arms, Faith still looked pale but stayed silent, Joyce was sat silent with tears running down her cheeks.

 

Anne was crying in William’s arms, Buffy was now crying in Spike’s, Lawson walked over to Faith and hugged her, which caused her to start sobbing.

 

Angelus, Ethan, Giles & Oz couldn’t think of anything to say.

 

Dawn looks terrified, “All this because they want me? All those people dead, because of me.”

 

Spike looks startled at her words, “No, don’t think like that Nibblet. It’s not your fault.”

 

“Spike’s right pumpkin belly, don’t you ever think it’s your fault.” Joyce adds on after wiping her face free of tears.

 

“It’s not your fault Dawnie, don’t say that.” Buffy said as she tucks her hair behind her ear.

 

Hank looked confused, “Why’s Salazar & Solomon after Dawn?”

 

Everyone looked shocked, they forgot he didn’t know, well apart from Xander who was still rocking back & forth.

 

Buffy fills him in, “Dawn’s The Key. She was sent to us by some monks in the form of my sister, she’s made from me. A hell-god named Glory wanted to use her to get home....only Salazar defeated Glory and now he wants the key for the same reason. The monks planted the memories of her in our heads.”

 

Hank looked shocked at first but then shrugs, “It doesn’t matter how she came to be here, she’s still my daughter.”

 

Dawn’s eyes filled with tears, but Sirrus interrupts before she can speak.

 

“Umm...I take it you don’t know?” He addresses Buffy.

 

Buffy looked confused, “Don’t know what?”

 

“Dawn isn’t just made from you.”

 

“What?” Buffy, Anne & Dawn exclaim in shock, “Who else is she made from?” Buffy asked confused.

 

“Spike.” He states as If it was obvious.

 

Everyone looked dumbfounded at that, except Xander who wasn’t listening.

 

“She’s made from me & Spike?” Buffy asked incredulously.

 

“Yeah. I find it hard to believe none of you didn’t notice, I mean look at Dawn’s eyes then look at Spike’s eyes.”

 

Buffy frowns and does just that, her eyes widen in amazement, “Their eyes are the same piercing blue color.”

 

Arkillius walks back in the room with a tray of whisky glasses and multiple bottles of blended scotch whisky.

 

“Thought you all might need this. I sure as hell do.” He fills a glass with scotch then downs it like it was nothing.

 

Giles, Kate, Gunn, Fred, Hank, Joyce, Lindsey, Darla, Wesley, Willow, Tara, Cordelia, Buffy, Anne, Ethan, Oz, Jonathan, Andrew, Clem, Doyle, Lorne & Faith all pour themselves one. Spike goes to pour one but Arkillius stops him.

 

“Wait. With us being more than human.....and being used to drinking.” He added as Buffy, Anne & Faith glare at him, “We have this one.” He pulls out some different scotch whisky bottles, “These are strong enough to knock Hornet on his arse.”

 

Spike, Lawson, William & Angelus’s eyes widened at that, “You’re serious? Balls that has to be strong. I remember drinking with him in France, he couldn’t get pissed no matter how much he drank. The other people in the pub bet him they could get him drunk, he left that bar with about 2,000 dollars.”

 

“Yeah. That’s Hornet for you, speaking of, you have saved him a bottle haven’t you?” Sirrus said to Spike, then questioned Arkillius.

 

Arkillius waves his hand dismissively, “There’s loads left. Not that it matters, Hornet’s probably got some stashed somewhere.”

 

“Yeah more than likely.” He shrugs and grabs a bottle, “What did Antinin say?”

 

“He’s stepping up the search....he’s bringing Varkveion in.”

 

“Good, if anyone can find the demon, it’s him.”

 

Giles looked curious, “Who are Antinin & Varkveion? I’ve heard Antinin mentioned numerous times.”

 

“They’re both members of D.U.S.T., Antinin’s a rare species of werewolf that has silver fur, He also keeps full control when in wolf form, he can even talk while he’s wolfed, his species aren’t the only one that can do that though. Varkveion's one of the original vampires, only good not evil.”

 

Oz looked intrigued at the mention of Antinin being a werewolf. Angel, Spike, William, Lawson & Angelus looked intrigued about Varkveion.

 

Oz went and sat closer, “Did you say he can still talk in wolf form?” He asked hopeful.

 

“Yeah, his species evolved to adapt to their surroundings, they’re an evolution of the first werewolves ever created. When he’s in wolf form he’s about 13ft tall, when stood on his hind legs.”

 

“Wow, that’s amazing.”

 

“After this is over I’ll introduce you, he’ll be able to teach you somethings.”

 

“Yeah, I’d like that, thanks.”

 

“You’re welcome.”

 

******

 

Downtown, Los Angeles, California

 

Bedlam & Hornet teleport in on a street in Los Angeles. The wind blew past them scattering the ashes. The streets were eerily quiet, apart from the empty cars that were still running, some had the windows rolled down and the radio could be heard.

 

Bedlam looks around, “Nothing. I can’t sense anyone.”

 

Hornet glances at him, “We should look, just to be on the safe side. The magic left over from the tear in reality could be messing with your senses.”

 

He nods, “You could be right. Let’s have a look round, stay close though, we don’t know what a ritual of this magnitude could’ve done.”

 

Hornet nods then they both enter a nearby shop, the electronic bell chimes as they walk through the door.

 

Hornet looks over the counter top, “Owners ash too.”

 

Bedlam was walking across the top of the store looking down each aisle as he passed them. After he reaches the end he goes back to Hornet, “Multiple other piles of ash down some of the aisles.”

 

“Let’s check somewhere else.”

 

Bedlam nods and they both leave the store.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

Giles & Wesley were both taking sips of the whisky while writing down the information Sirrus gave them.

 

Xander seemed to snap out of his distress and poured himself a glass. After a couple of sips he speaks.

 

“I’m sorry, you were right I was still in denial. About a lot of things.” He turns to Buffy & Anne, “I’m sorry I lied about remembering, I’m sorry for having those sort of fantasies, and I’m sorry for being in a delusion that you’d ever date me. I’ve made a lot of mistakes, I regret all of them, but I mostly regret how it took all of L.A. being wiped out for me to own my mistakes & problems.”

 

“Good for you, want a cookie?” Spike asked sarcastically.

 

Buffy puts her hand on his arm, “Spike baby..” She trails off as he pulls his arm away.

 

“No, he bitched about the people I killed for food Buffy. He’s responsible for a Los Angeles extinction event and now he wakes up with the ‘woe is sodding me’ attitude. expecting everyone to feel sorry for him because he’s a wanker. How’s about he apologises to everyone else? Everyone here had people they knew from L.A., friends & family, all gone thanks to him, I’d blame Finn, but he’s dead, it’s not good to speak ill of the dead. I knew people from L.A., people I’ll never see again.” He had tears running down his cheeks at the end of his rant.

 

Buffy looks upset herself, “I know baby, I know. I’m not forgiving Xander, no one is. We didn’t forgive him before when he came out of his denial about how dangerous Salazar was.” She then adds on sadly, “Like anyone can argue that fact now.” She walks over and pulls him into a hug.

 

Anne glances at William to discover he was also crying, she pulls him into a hug too.

 

Everyone else was glaring at Xander, he looked ashamed, “I know there’s nothing I can do, but I am truly sorry to all of you. Spike’s right, I’m responsible for your loved ones being killed, but I don’t expect forgiveness, because I know I’m never going to get it. I can’t even earn it back, and I wouldn’t want to if I could. I’m never going to be able to forget this, forgiveness is just the easy way out, something I don’t deserve.”

 

Sirrus looks at him inwardly surprised at his words, “You’re right, there is nothing you can do, and no one here’s about to give you a easy way out. Your easy way outs got us in this situation in the first place. Buffy, Giles & Willow aren’t exactly blameless in the situation neither, if they called you on your bullshit in the past and not let you get away with the questionable shit you did and the lies you told, that a toddler could pick up on, you probably wouldn’t have been this bad. That doesn’t excuse what you’ve caused to happen, most people use their brains Harris, not forget they exist.”

 

Buffy, Anne, Giles & Willow looked deeply ashamed at his words.

 

Xander shakes his head, “It shouldn’t be their place to tell me I’m wrong, I should’ve been able to figure it out on my own.”

 

Arkillius snorts, “That’s pretty obvious Harris. Sirrus was just telling you like you tell a toddler, which is the way you’ve been acting. Like a child you don’t know somethings wrong until it’s repeated to you several times not to do it.”

 

“I know, I understand that now.”

 

“I would’ve said better late than never, but I’m sure the residents of Los Angeles would disagree.” Sirrus responds.

 

******

 

Downtown, Los Angeles, California

 

They both approached a restaurant, “Let’s see if anyone’s in here.” Hornet said as he pushed the doors open.

 

“Couldn’t hurt.” Bedlam replied with a nod.

 

As they enter the restaurant they see multiple more piles of ash scattered about. Some on chairs where it was obvious they were enjoying a nice meal before it happened.

 

Hornet looks sadly at something on the floor next to one of the chairs, he bends down to pick it up.

 

He looks at the stuffed teddy in his hand, “A kid was here.” By the emotion in his voice Bedlam could tell he was crying.

 

He walks over and puts a comforting hand on his shoulder, “We’ll stop them.”

 

Hornet wipes his eyes, “Yeah we will.” His voice was full of determination.

A noise from the kitchen makes them spin around, Hornet pulls a pistol out of a holster strapped to the top of his leg.

 

He approaches the kitchen door slowly, “Hello?” no response came, “Are you hurt?” again no response, “By order of D.U.S.T. we command you to show yourself.”

 

That seems to have done the trick as a creature popped up in the viewing window. It was pure black at least 10ft tall and extremely thin, with extremely thin long legs & arms, as well as a giant mouth with rows of sharp white teeth & pure white eyes.

 

Hornet backs up, “Shit! It’s a Voidian Husk. Bedlam! outside now!” They both left the restaurant, only to find multiple other Voidian Husks out on the street and coming out of the nearby buildings.

 

“It’s time to rumble.” Bedlam said determined, with a nod they both split off, Hornet left & Bedlam right.

 

Hornet takes on 3 of the Husks at once, he kicks one in the leg as it falls to one knee he punches it in the jaw. Another one swings its long arm at him which he ducks under, he jumps onto the roof of a nearby car and punches another one, he back flips off the car as a Husk tries to grab him.

 

Bedlam’s on a fire escape at the side of a building fighting 5 at once, he hits one and throws it over the railings, he blocks an attack from another one by grabbing its long bony wrists, his hands light up with fire setting the Husk alight.

 

******

 

The alarm sounding Brought their attention to the screen.

 

“Bollocks!” Sirrus exclaims.

 

“Fuck!” Arkillius adds on.

 

“What are they?” Buffy asked at the sight of the tall thin creatures.

 

“Voidian Husks, they’re drawn to massive death tolls. When Salazar opened the multiverse for the ritual they slipped in from the void.” Sirrus responds while pacing.

 

“There’s hundreds of them!” Andrew exclaims in panic.

 

Giles cleans his glasses, “Hornet & Bedlam appear to be holding them off, but who knows for how much longer?”

 

“We need to help.” Angel said determined.

 

Arkillius shakes his head, “No me & Sirrus do, you’ve never been to the void so their touch will be toxic to you.”

 

Spike huffs, “So all we can do is watch?”

 

“I’m afraid so.” Arkillius says apologetically.

 

Sirrus throws Arkillius something, “The rest of you sit tight, we’ll be back.”

 

They both teleport out the room.

 

******

 

Bedlam & Hornet were still fighting for their lives, “We won’t be able to last much longer!” Hornet shouts out.

 

“I know there’s too many.”

 

Just then Sirrus & Arkillius teleport in, “Special delivery! Anyone order an arse-kicking?” Arkillius asked the Husks.

 

Multiple of them turn around and grin at them, “Come on you ugly bastards, bring it.” Sirrus practically growled out.

 

Some of the Husks charge them, Sirrus jumps and headbutts one of them, Arkillius pulls out a pistol and shoots another.

 

“There’s still too many!” Hornet yells out to them.

 

“I can see that!” Arkillius yells back.

 

“Not for much longer.” Sirrus says cryptically.

 

A portal opens and three D.U.S.T. void ship’s come out.

 

******

 

“Those ships are bigger than the one in London.” Buffy says confused.

 

Spike smirks, “That’s because they’re void carrier ships, prepare yourselves you’re about to see how good D.U.S.T. actually are.”

 

******

 

The back of the void ships open and hundreds of D.U.S.T. soldiers repel out, they’re wearing armour and full head helmets that even cover their faces, the helmet & armour has D.U.S.T. branded on them.

 

“Yeah! Let’s do this!” Hornet shouts with glee.

 

The soldiers pull out futuristic assault rifles and begin opening fire. Lasers come out some of the rifles and disintegrate the Husks, bullets come out of the others and shred through the enemy.

 

Bedlam materialises two long chains, he holds the ends in each hand, the chains set on fire and he spins them above his head, the speed causes the fiery chains to cut through the Husks surrounding him.

 

Arkillius has a tattoo of a sword on his right arm, he holds out the arm and the tattoo moves down his arm making the actual sword appear in his hand, as he cuts through the Husks they appear to burn, similar to how vampires burn with holy water.

 

Sirrus turns into his demon form, his skins pure black with blue marks up his chest, arms, legs & back, his eyes are a glowing blue colour, and he has sharp teeth & claws. He moves faster than the eye can see slashing through the Husks.

 

Hornet’s eyes turn yellow with black irises, he punches one of the Husks causing it to fly back and smash into a car, the car is left with an imprint of where the Husk connected with it. The cars alarm starts blaring at the impact, Hornet’s speed is greatly increased, every time a punch connects the Husks react as if they’ve been stung.

 

More Husks come out of the nearby buildings, The soldiers are holding their own against them.

 

*****

 

“Whoa!” Buffy exclaims, “I didn’t know they could do that.” She was obviously impressed.

 

“Is that what an Unsintebus looks like Lorne?” Fred asked in regards to Sirrus’s demon form.

 

“Yeah, from what I’ve heard that is. I’ve never actually seen one before.” Lorne’s voice was full of amazement.

 

“What do the evil versions look like? Because I gotta say, that’s some scary looking demon.” Gunn asked curiously.

 

“If the rumours are true they’re the same, only instead of blue marks and blue eyes they have red ones.”

He nods still looking at the screen.

 

Faith’s pacing back & forth, “I hate not being able to help.”

 

Lawson nods, “I do too, but you heard what Arkillius said, none of us have been to the void so their touch will be toxic to us. It’s even toxic to vampires & demons, if it wasn’t they could have took Me, Spike, William, Angelus &...Angel.” He said Angel's name like it physically pained him to do so.

 

She sighs, “I know, I just hate being stuck here watching.”

 

“I know the feeling.” Anne said annoyed.

 

William pulls her to his chest, “It’s OK baby, we’ll find lots of things to kill when this is over.” He finishes with a kiss on the top of her head.

 

She sighs happily, “I’d like that. I can’t wait till this thing with Salazar & Solomon’s over.” Her mood turns sad, “But even when that happens, the people of L.A. will still be gone.”

 

“I know sweetheart I know.”

 

“Speaking of, what are we supposed to do if the ritual was a success? What if they find Stygian?” Kate asked worried.

 

Cordelia’s voice was full of dread, “Then we have 3 to deal with.”

 

“Twos bad enough. I’m not looking forward to a third.” Darla adds on.

 

Lindsey looks at the floor, “It gets worse.”

 

“How?” Buffy asked incredulously.

 

“I know for a fact The Senior Partners won’t let what happened to the L.A. branch of Wolfram & Hart go unpunished. They’re going to send someone to get revenge.”

 

Buffy’s eyes widened, “Great! Can it get worse?”

 

Spike looked thoughtful, “Hang on. That could help us.”

 

Lindsey looks at him In disbelief, “Are you insane? The Senior Partners want me & Darla dead. How could that possibly help us?”

 

“Because I’m betting The Senior Partners will send their best to get revenge. It’ll be like Glory again, Salazar & Solomon’s attention will be on the new enemy and off of us. This gives Antinin & Varkveion time to find the denial demon.”

 

Giles jumps to his feet, “Of course! Salazar went after Glory first because he considered her the threat, not us. So it stands to reason like Spike pointed out, that The Senior Partners will send their best operative to get revenge. Which in turn will get Salazar & Solomon’s attention off of us and on to them.”

 

“But why?” Buffy asked confused.

 

“Because Salazar & Solomon don’t just want us to know how dangerous their family is, they want to prove it. They want to be the most dangerous & evil beings in Sunnydale, That’s why Salazar went after Glory, that and she could have posed a challenge against him. Something he couldn’t allow, that’s why he removed her as quick as he did.”

 

She nods her understanding, then frowns in confusion, “But Why’s he acting differently? Sirrus said if his plan was obvious it means it’s the opposite, my slayer dream showed L.A., And his new minions are from there. Which made it obvious, he was moving anyone who could be useful to Sunnydale.”

 

“That was Salazar showing us how intelligent he is. I believe he purposely made his plan obvious, he already knew D.U.S.T. are here, and he knows they’re aware of his pattern, so he decided to do the exact opposite and made the obvious his target. Arkillius said something before, and it got me thinking. He said D.U.S.T. usually know what Salazar will do, which leads me to believe he’s not doing the evil he is for a reaction out of them, but out of us. Salazar knows D.U.S.T. you see, but he doesn’t know us, so he’s doing random evil things to see how far he can go before we retaliate. He likes to know his enemies, and from what I’ve gathered Salazar & Solomon can’t enter the D.U.S.T. safehouses, so it stands to reason they’re trying to draw us out. I have never come across an enemy this intelligent, and if I was being honest, it’s bloody terrifying.”

 

“If we didn’t get dad back, Salazar would have killed him wouldn’t he?” Dawn asked quietly.

 

“I have no doubt, and I believe he would have done it in the most evilest way possible.”

 

“Who the hell can want to keep this psychopath alive?” Cordelia asked in disbelief.

 

“I pray to god we never find out.”

 

The commotion on the screen brought their attention back to it.

 

******

 

Bedlam levitates off the ground and fires a wall of lightning at the Husks, multiple of them fry to a crisp.

 

Arkillius was still using his sword, but he brought out a pistol as well, he’d slash some and shoot others, he’s taken out a lot of Husks and he’s still going.

 

Sirrus was still in demon form and moving too fast for the Husks to keep up, their numbers are diminishing at a rapid rate, but there’s still quite a few of them left.

 

Hornet was obviously enjoying himself, he’s currently using the heads of the Husks as stepping stones to pass over them as they’re blocking the path, as he lands on the other side one of the nearby soldiers throws him a rifle, which he catches and begins taking out the Husks.

 

The fight was going well, another bigger ship comes through a portal, it remains still in the sky above Los Angeles, the ships the size of the city. A noise emits from the ship before a huge force field seems to come from it and cover all of Los Angeles.

 

******

 

“What’s that for?” Andrew asked amazed.

 

Spike chuckles, “It’s a force field, D.U.S.T. are making sure none of the Husks get to anymore nearby towns or cities. It also stops anyone from entering the city, Los Angeles is officially under D.U.S.T. control.”

 

“That ships the size of L.A.” Buffy’s eyes are wide with amazement.

 

“They have bigger ships than that.” Anya said matter-of-factly.

 

“Why aren’t all those soldiers helping with Salazar & Solomon?” Dawn asked confused.

 

“Because Sirrus, Hornet & Bedlam are pretty much impossible to kill, Arkillius actually is Impossible to kill, those soldiers aren’t. Sirrus won’t allow them to put their lives in danger over Riley & Xander’s stupidity. They’re other members in D.U.S.T. as strong as those four, but as you can see The Serpent Family isn’t their only enemies, and D.U.S.T.’s numbers aren’t unlimited no matter how many people think they are.”

 

Dawn nods, “Yeah I get that. I was just wondering.”

 

They all turn back to the screen.

 

******

 

There wasn’t many Husks left now, Sirrus has turned back to his human form, and he kills 2 Husks near him.

 

“Keep it together! There’s not many left.” He commands the soldiers.

 

Multiple shouts of ‘Yes Sir!’ Was his response.

 

Bedlam’s forearms & hands turned into molten rock, “Let’s dance.” He said to the Husks nearby, he charges them his molten fist connecting with ones face, “Have that you lanky bastard.” He turns to another one as it swings its long arm at him, “You lot are really starting to piss me off.” He said through clenched teeth.

 

Hornet was in the process of being grinned at by a Husk, “Stop Fucking Grinning At Me!” He snapped angrily at it, it just continues to grin at him, “That’s it! Like to see you grin with no sodding teeth left!” He charges the Husk and punches it directly on the mouth, the Husk recoiled at the punch then it grins again, “What the fuck are your teeth made of?! You know what? Fuck it!” He pulls out a pistol and head shots it, as it falls to the floor he shrugs and walks away.

 

Arkillius was fighting some of the leftover Husks, “Will you just die already?!” He cuts ones head off, “You two! You’re next.” He uses his sword and impales them both at once, after removing the sword he looks around, there was only about 25 Husks left.

 

The last Husk eventually falls, Sirrus approaches one of the soldiers, “Search L.A., see if anyone survived Salazar’s ritual, I highly doubt they did but we need to be sure. Keep aware we don’t know if any Voidian Husks are still roaming around. Also keep L.A. locked down no one in or out apart from D.U.S.T., we can’t take the chance any Husks didn’t survive.”

 

The soldier nods, “Understood sir, we’ll get right on it.”

 

“Good. That’ll be all.”

 

He salutes Sirrus then walks away, Hornet walks over, “Do you think Salazar knew? That his ritual would attract the Husks?”

 

“I wouldn’t put it past him.” He walks over and sits down on a low wall, Bedlam & Arkillius walk over to them both.

 

“I can’t believe it.” Arkillius said as he sits down beside Sirrus, “All of the Los Angeles population gone.”

 

Sirrus is looking at the floor when he speaks, “Salazar played us, he knew we arrived and that we know his pattern. He used that to his advantage, making the obvious target the actual one, knowing full well we’d expect it to be a red herring.”

 

Hornet nods, “Do you think the ritual was successful? If it was we need to prepare for Stygian’s arrival.”

 

He shrugs, “No way to know for sure, until he turns up that is.”

 

Bedlam looked thoughtful, “Even if it was, Salazar & Solomon still have to get him here.”

 

Sirrus stands up, “Let’s get back to the safehouse we can discuss it in detail with everyone else.”

 

They nod and teleport out of Los Angeles.

 

******

 

They teleported back in the room, “Hornet set up a second screen that monitors Los Angeles. If the soldiers run into any trouble we’ll know then.”

 

He nods and twists the head of a nearby statue, a wall opens revealing an entire room full of different monitors.

 

“Wow, this Is amazing.” Fred said at the sight of the extremely technological room.

 

“Thanks, it comes in handy in situations like this.” Sirrus said thankful.

 

Hornet goes into the monitor room and begins typing at one of the computers.

 

Sirrus turns to everyone else, “Let’s go and sit down we have to discuss the possibility of Stygian arriving.”

 

They nod and go to the chairs & couches, after sitting down Giles is the first to speak.

 

“Why on earth would it take an entire city’s population to be sacrificed in order to find Stygian?”

 

“We now believe that Stygian’s locked up somewhere. Possibly a hell dimension or something like that, we’re not sure, but it’s the only explanation for that type of sacrifice to take place. The problem is, wherever Stygian’s locked up...he’s not alone.”

 

“How can you be sure?”

 

“Because Stygian’s extremely powerful, stronger than Salazar & Solomon combined, but even though it would take a huge sacrifice to free him, it wouldn’t have taken all of the residents of Los Angeles.”

 

Everyone’s eyes widened at the stronger than Salazar & Solomon combined part, then they felt dread at whatever else he could show up with.

 

Bedlam decides to sooth their fears, as best he can in this situation, “We have time. Even though the ritual may have shown them where Stygian is, they still have to figure out how to get him here.”

 

Buffy seems to calm a bit at the news, “That’s a little comforting I suppose. I’m more scared about the fact he’s stronger than both Salazar & Solomon, and what could possibly be coming with him.”

 

Spike pulls her in his lap, “I know sweetheart me too.” He turns to Sirrus, “How is Stygian stronger than Solomon? I can understand him being stronger than Salazar, but Solomon’s Stygian’s dad.”

 

“Solomon is stronger than Stygian, In normal circumstances anyway. Don’t forget Solomon’s not in his own body, if he was the stuff he could do would be disastrous.”

 

Spike nods his understanding, Hank looks thoughtful, “How low are our chances whatever’s locked up with Stygian’s his enemy?”

 

“Literally impossible. If they were his enemies he’d have killed them by now.”

 

“So he won’t be coming alone?” Giles asked deeply concerned.

 

“No he won’t. He’s the only Serpent Family member who’s disappeared to our knowledge, so I believe it’s Serpent Warriors he has with him. I’m not a hundred percent sure though, we didn’t even know he got locked up.”

 

“Meaning it was possibly one of his enemies? Do you think they would offer assistance to us in the upcoming battle?”

 

Hornet bursts out laughing, “I’m sorry.” He calms himself, “There’s no chance of that happening. Put it this way Salazar & Solomon are more trust worthy then them.”

 

Buffy snorts, “Why am I not surprised? They’re evil after all.”

 

“Don’t think because people are evil they always lie, we’ve had enemies In the past who didn’t. Take The Masters of Evil for example, they’ve never lied once, to them lying’s a disgusting habit, and the truth hurts more.” He gets a far away look in his eyes, “Especially when they tell it.” He shakes his head, “Anyway, all I’m saying is not every evil being lies. Spike prides himself on being honest, even when you were enemies.”

 

She looks thoughtful, “You’re right, Spike’s never lied to me, even when we were enemies.” She leans over and kisses him, “You’re the best, I love you Spike.”

 

He looks at her with pure love in his eyes, “I love you too Buffy.”

 

Xander looked thoughtful, ‘Now I’m not living in a fantasy I can see they belong together. I was a fool for trying to get between them.’ “I’m sorry, I was an idiot. Now I’m actually looking, you two definitely belong together it’s obvious.”

 

She looks at him her expression blank, “Yeah you’re seeing what everyone else has already seen. Angel even saw it before you Xander.”

 

“Yeah I know, I was an idiot.”

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

It was 11pm Salazar & Solomon were looking at another parchment.

 

“So we’ve found dad’s location. Now we just need to figure out how to get him here.” Salazar said thoughtfully.

 

“I wonder who locked my boy up in the first place? Stygian isn’t easily defeated.”

 

“Probably one of those bastards back home. I can guarantee it wasn’t D.U.S.T., even they looked for him when he disappeared.”

 

“We’ll deal with those fuckers when we get home. No one messes with The Serpent Family!”

 

Cactus walks in the room, “Masters we have the sacrifices for the Hellmouth. It turns out not everyone fled town.”

 

Salazar turns to acknowledge him, “Good, Keep them secured. We won’t be opening the Hellmouth until my father’s here.”

 

He nods, “As you command Master Salazar.” He turns and walks out the room.

 

“Those Voidian Husks were a let down. I expected better from them.” Solomon commented after Cactus left the room.

 

Salazar snorts, “Then you were looking forward to disappointment. Any kind of Husks annoying enough, never mind those lanky fuckers. Just because they’re from the void doesn’t change that.”

 

Solomon rolls his eyes, “Yes, I’m well aware how irritating Husks can be. I was hoping they would at the very least keep D.U.S.T. busy.”

 

“Are you sure you’re feeling alright granddad? With the shit we know they’ve faced and defeated the Husks didn’t stand a chance.”

 

“Oh please, I knew the Husks stand a chance against them. I just wasn’t expecting D.U.S.T. to take them out that fast, but who am I kidding? Husks aren’t even challenging to us.”

 

Salazar chuckles, “No they’re not. They can be extremely problematic in large numbers, but not really a challenge.”

 

“Yes I agree. Anyway, soon we can begin phase 3, which entails bringing Stygian here. Then we start the actual apocalypse.” He finishes with a smirk.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

It was midnight, “I suggest we all get some sleep, there isn’t anything more we can do, especially tonight.” Giles said as he saw the time.

 

They all nod and go to their rooms, Buffy led Spike by the hand into their room, Anne did the same to William.

 

As Buffy closed their room door she turned to Spike, “Do you think it can get worse? Salazar’s just wiped out all of L.A., what can he do next?”

 

Spike started taking off his duster, “I don’t know. I can’t think of anything worse than what he’s already done. I could be wrong though.”

 

She opens a drawer and takes out her pyjamas, “I’m not looking forward to our final battle against them, I’m not ready for anyone else to die, but I know that’s gonna happen.” She turns to him, “Promise me you’ll be careful? I don’t think I could take it if you died.” She begins crying, “Promise Me! Spike baby please! Please Promise me.”

 

He spins around and wrapped her up in his arms, “Don’t cry kitten, I hate seeing you cry. I promise I won’t die, baby I promise.”

 

She hugs him tightly, “Good, see that you don’t, or I’ll bring you back to kick your ass.” Her voice is muffled against his bare chest.

 

He chuckles, “I’ll hold you to that. Come on kitten let’s get some sleep.”

 

She nods & begins changing into her pyjamas, she sees Spike pull out a pair of silk pyjama bottoms. She watches transfixed as he takes off his jeans, but with his back to her she couldn’t see much, apart from the fact he doesn’t wear underwear.

 

After Spike’s put the bottoms on he turns to a wide eyed Buffy who was staring at him.

 

“You OK kitten?” He asked concerned.

 

“You don’t wear underwear.” She blurted out. She then blushes deeply as he grins at her.

 

“No I don’t, but you’ll have more time to explore that when this is over.”

 

She blushes even more, but nods In agreement anyway and they both climb in bed and cuddle each other. They eventually fall asleep.

 

Xander enters his room and sits on the bed. He proceeds to stare at the wall in thought, ‘I don’t know what to do. I’m a complete idiot, I let my demon hatred get us in this situation, an entire city of people...gone.’ He lays down on the bed and stares at the ceiling.

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

At 12.30am Salazar & Solomon were watching a magical screen showing them L.A., multiple minions were with them as well.

 

“What do you think Xander’s reaction was to the extinction of Los Angeles?” Solomon asked with amusement clear in his voice.

 

“Fuck knows. It doesn’t matter anyway, I’ll have my revenge on him for bringing me here.”

 

“That’s my bloodthirsty grandson.” He said with a smirk.

 

Salazar shrugs, “I learnt from the best.”

 

“Yes you did. Wait until your father sees what’s become of you, he’ll be extremely proud.”

 

“He’s only been gone 5 years, you make it sound like it’s been longer.”

 

“For him it might have been.”

 

Salazar nods, “That’s a possibility.”

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

Buffy was in a deep sleep, a frown appears on her face as she begins to shift uncomfortably, she appears to be dreaming.

 

******

 

Buffy’s Dream – Start

 

She was in Restfield Cemetery, looking at herself & Spike, they were both looking at a headstone, the name made her gasp ‘Buffy Anne Summers. Beloved Sister, Devoted Friend. She Saved The World A Lot.’ the other Buffy & Spike turned and walked away.

 

She walks over to the grave, “I didn’t die. Is this the future? Or is it an alternate reality?”

 

The scene changes, she’s in her bedroom looking down at a sleeping version of herself. She gasps as a glowing green snake symbol appears on her sleeping counterparts forearm just above her wrist.

 

She leans in closer, “What the hell is that?”

 

The scene changes again, she finds herself on a random street in Sunnydale, a green portal opens and she stares wide eyed as Salazar walks out of it.

 

“What the hells going on?” She exclaims.

 

Dream Salazar lights up a cigarette and takes a drag, “Round 2.” He exhales the smoke with a smirk.

 

The scene changed, Buffy was looking at herself & Spike meeting Salazar.

 

“Who the hell are you?” Dream Buffy asks Salazar.

 

“Your worst nightmare girl. The names Salazar Serpent, don’t forget it.” Dream Salazar responded.

 

“What the bloody hell do you want?” Dream Spike asked angrily.

 

“Revenge. The other Buffy & Spike with their cronies may have beaten me, but you won’t be so lucky.” Dream Salazar said.

 

Dream Buffy & Spike’s eyes widened at hearing that, but so do our Buffy’s eyes.

 

The scene changed and two D.U.S.T. members turn up, but it’s not Sirrus, Hornet or Arkillius, but Bedlam was there only he had blonde hair and he wasn’t wearing the Dark Squad jacket.

 

Buffy’s Dream - End

 

******

 

She awakens with a gasp, which jolts Spike out of his sleep, “What’s wrong kitten?”

 

“I just had a really weird dream. Spike? We’re gonna win.”

 

He sat up at that, “What? How?”

 

“I don’t know, but we are.”

 

He looks confused, “What happened in your dream? Obviously something that told you we win.”

 

She looks at the time, it was 3am, “It did.” She climbs out of bed, “This can’t wait until tomorrow. Come on we have to tell Sirrus.”

 

She walks out of her & Spike’s room with Spike hot on her heels.

 

She walks down to Sirrus’s room and knocks heavily on his door.

 

After a couple of minutes he answers, “Buffy? Spike?” he asked confused.

 

“I had a dream. We’re going to win.”

 

Sirrus’s eyes widened, “Hang on.” He walks over to Bedlam, Arkillius & Hornet’s rooms knocking as he past.

 

A sleepy Hornet, Bedlam & Arkillius emerged from their rooms, “Come on we have news.” Sirrus ordered.

 

The 3 of them groaned in unison but did as they were told, the commotion seems to have woken up Anne, William, Angelus, Angel, Faith, Lawson, Oz & Giles.

 

“What’s all the noise about.” Anne whined.

 

“I must ask the same. It’s 3am.” Giles said annoyed.

 

Sirrus raises his eyebrow, “Technically I only fetched Hornet, Arkillius & Bedlam. The rest of you invited yourselves, but since you’re awake you might as well come too.”

 

Giles sighs and follows along with everyone else.

 

They’re all In the main room now, “Shouldn’t we get everyone else? This sounds important.” Faith asked curiously.

 

Sirrus shake his head, “We weren’t going to involve anyone till in the morning. We’re used to waking up at times like this.”

 

“OK what’s the sitch?”

 

“I had a dream. We’re gonna win, but I don’t know how.” Buffy informs them.

 

Everyone there except Spike, Buffy & Sirrus’s eyes widened at that.

 

“What happened in the dream?” Bedlam asked curiously.

 

“That’s why I got Sirrus in the first place. In the dream I was looking at another Buffy & Spike. They were looking at her grave, the scene changed to the other Buffy’s bedroom at Revello drive, she was sleeping and a glowing green snake symbol appeared on her forearm here.” She points at her inner forearm just above her wrist, “It looked like it was moving as well. After that the scene changed again and I was on a random street in Sunnydale, a green portal opened and Salazar stepped out. The dream was of an alternate reality, that Buffy & Spike didn’t know who Salazar was, and he said he wanted revenge, that and I quote ‘the other Buffy & Spike with their cronies may have beaten me, but you won’t be so lucky’ meaning we obviously win against him. Then the scene changed once more and two D.U.S.T. members turned up, but it wasn’t Sirrus, Arkillius or Hornet, but Bedlam showed up only he had blonde hair.”

 

“That’s good for us, but not so much for this other Buffy.” Oz said concerned.

 

“That wasn’t Bedlam. It was his brother.” Hornet informed her.

 

Buffy looked shocked, “Really? They looked exactly the same.”

 

“Him, his older brother, and older sister are triplets so they will.”

 

“Wow, I didn’t know they were triplets.”

 

Bedlam interrupts, “Yeah we are, quite irritating if you ask me. I can’t even count the amount of times people have mixed me & my brother up. Anyway back to the matter at hand.” He frowns, “What I don’t understand, is why would Salazar go after another Buffy? If he wanted revenge he’s usually the type of guy to go after the specific person who wronged him. Unless we do something to stop him returning here.”

 

“The problem is we don’t know what reality that one actually is. From what you’ve told us it’s one where you died and got resurrected, but that still doesn’t help. What did the other member of D.U.S.T. look like?”

 

“Oh, he was brunette with short hair with lines shaved in the side, he wore a jacket the same as yours, and he had brown eyes.” Buffy informs him.

 

Arkillius chuckles, “That’s Benny.” He frowns, “Something else must be happening in the future, because we’d be there if it wasn’t.”

 

Giles was writing it all down, “Was there any clues Buffy? Anything to hint at the possible victory we achieved?”

 

She shakes her head, “No nothing, he just wanted revenge because we beat him. He didn’t say how we did it though.”

 

“What about the glowing green snake symbol? Surely that has to mean something?” Angel asked curiously.

 

Sirrus sighs, “It does, but that only makes the location of that reality even harder to pinpoint. The symbol means a Buffy is going to be effected by The Serpent Curse, the problem with that is it’s so powerful that it doesn’t matter which Buffy is cursed, it effects every single one of them. From what your dream signifies it means that Salazar gets pulled to which ever Buffy fits the criteria for the curse, but we don’t know what that criteria is.”

 

“A curse??!!” Buffy & Anne exclaim in fear.

 

“Yeah a curse.”

 

“What’s the main reason he usually curses people? With you knowing what it is that means you’ve dealt with it before.” Lawson asked curiously.

 

Hornet snorts, “Usually someone pissing him off. The only problem is the reason you pissed him off could be random.”

 

“Random in what way?” Giles asked concerned.

 

“Random like making a cup of tea by putting the milk in first.”

 

Giles, William & Spike looked offended by the idea, “What kind of pillock does that?” Giles asked incredulously.

 

“No one normal, but that’s besides the point. The reason could be random but with Salazar I highly doubt it, the easiest way to explain the curse is like having a line drawn in the sand. The closer you get to the line the more visible the symbol becomes, the further away you get the more it disappears until it’s practically invisible. Let’s say you cross that line, that’s what will bring the repercussions, in Buffy’s Dreams case that repercussion is Salazar himself. The main reason the symbol does this is because of some mental torture cooked up by Salazar, to make you subconsciously believe it’s your fault, that you saw the symbol and didn’t listen. The problem is the sneaky bastard usually does it so the people cursed don’t have a clue what they’ve done wrong.”

 

Buffy looks thoughtful, “So basically if the other Buffy does something I did, or let’s something happen that I did, that could activate the curse?”

 

He looks impressed, “Spot on. The only problem is we don’t know what that could be. I mean you’ve done questionable things in the past that’s pissed us off, so I can guarantee you’ve done or will do something to piss him off.”

 

She nods, “Most probably. Is there a way to stop the curse?”

 

“Kind of. It’s a bastard of a curse, We can’t stop it being cast because the blocker spell has to be specific, and with us not knowing when he’s going to cast it...well being specific goes out the window. That means we have to do a spell to break it, that won’t be easy, and we can’t break it while it’s active.”

 

Giles looked thoughtful, “And there in lies the problem. With not knowing the reason for the curse in the first place, there’s no telling how many times it will be activated.”

 

“Yeah that’s correct.” He looks at the clock, it was 4am, “it’s late we’ll inform everyone else tomorrow morning. Buffy? Anne? Think of anything he could curse you with that any other versions of you are likely to do.”

 

They both nod and get ready to go back to sleep.

 

Sirrus stops Spike & William, “I want you two to do the same thing Hornet just told Buffy & Anne to do. You know them better than anyone, so anything you can think of let us know.”

 

They both nod and walk over to Buffy & Anne who were waiting for them at the bottom of the stairs.

 

They all head back to bed.

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

Salazar & Solomon went to bed an hour ago. Some of the minions were still awake though.

 

“I’m bored let’s go out.” One of the minions complained.

 

The other shrugs, “Why not? It’s not like anyone’s left in Sunnydale anyway.”

 

A handful of the minions get up and leave the Stronghold.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

Xander jolts awake in a sweat, “These nightmares are killing me. I need to go and get some air.” He grabs a pen & paper and writes a note, after he’s finished he gets dressed and leaves his room. As he passed the front door he grabs his coat.

 

******

 

Magic Box, Sunnydale, California

 

Xander walks into the magic box lost in thought, ‘Maybe getting some stuff from my apartment could help me sleep? Yeah I’ll try that.’

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

Anne & William were laying cuddled in bed lost in thought.

 

“What do you think could be the reason the curse would affect me?” Anne asked as she was drawing circles with her forefinger on William’s bare chest.

 

William furrowed his brow, “I don’t know. It has to be something you do that offends him, but that could be anything.”

 

She sighs and lays her forehead against his chest, “I know that’s the problem. You don’t think it’s in regards to you do you?”

 

He looked offended, “Meaning what exactly?”

 

“Nothing bad baby. It’s just from the sounds of it the other Buffy’s let the rest control them like I used to. My weakness to stand up for myself could be what activates the curse. The main place I didn’t stand up for myself was in regards to my feelings for you, I didn’t want the others constantly asking questions, or constantly complaining.”

 

He looks thoughtful, “I don’t know it’s possible I suppose, but me and you being together is meant to happen so I can’t see Salazar doing something that gets us together.”

 

She nods, “Yeah you’re probably right.” She leans down and kisses him, “Good night William.”

 

“Good night Anne.”

 

******

 

Downtown, Sunnydale, California

 

Salazar’s minions were currently looking through abandoned stores to see what they could find.

 

“Do you think that electronic store still has some good TVs?”

 

“Of course, who else is going to take them? We’re the only ones left in Sunnydale.”

 

“Yeah you’re right. Let’s see which ones the best. They might even have one of those fancy ones with cable already built in.”

 

“Yeah that sounds good.”

 

Another minion interrupts, “Wait. Isn’t that the guy the Masters want?” He points.

 

They look where he’s pointing and see an oblivious Xander walking down the street.

 

“Yeah, let’s get him.”

 

The others nod and approach him, “Well well well, look what we have here? You lot boy?”

 

Xander spins round and his eyes widened, “What do you want?” He asked with a tremor as he slowly backed up.

 

“You. Master Salazar’s dying to meet you.”

 

Xander’s eyes widened even further, before he was hit on the head and the world went black.

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

As the minions returned with Xander in tow, one of them decided it was time to wake up Salazar & Solomon.

 

He walks towards both their rooms, as he passes Solomon’s he knocks, he came to a stop outside Salazar’s room and did the same.

 

A naked Salazar opened his room door, it was wide enough that the minion could see two of the female vampires, also naked and asleep in his bed.

 

“This better be important.” He said dangerously.

 

Solomon opened his bedroom door, “I strongly agree. What is the meaning of this?”

 

The minion rushed to explain, “I’m sorry for waking you Masters, but we have a gift. I think you’re definitely going to want to see this.”

 

Salazar & Solomon looked intrigued, “Well then show us.” Salazar commanded as clothes materialise on his body.

 

The minion nodded and led them towards the cells. Other minions look to be celebrating in the main room as they passed.

 

“Well don’t they seem chipper? What did you lot get up to?”

 

“We went to loot some of the stores Masters. The electronics store and the weapons store mostly, with everyone fleeing Sunnydale they were all empty and ready to be looted. That’s when we saw the biggest prize of them all just wondering the streets.”

 

“Well the suspense is killing me. What’s important enough for you to wake us?” Solomon asked intrigued.

 

“You’re about to find out Masters.” He said cryptically as they reach the cells.

 

They walked over to the cell holding the newest addition to the prisoners. The minion opened the cell and gestured to Salazar & Solomon to enter.

 

They both shrug and proceed to do just that, they both enter the cell and what they see causes both of them to smirk.

 

Xander’s cowering in the corner of the room, his eyes widen as they enter, “Oh God! Please let me go!”

 

“Let me list the ways that’s not happening. One because it’s not, the end.” Salazar said with a smirk.

 

“I saw what you did to L.A., you’ve proven your point, you’re dangerous. I’m stupid for not seeing it sooner, but please let me go.”

 

“Flattery will get you nowhere boy.” Solomon says tauntingly.

 

Salazar smirks again, “We’re going to have lots of fun.”

 

Xander’s eyes widened in terror.

Notes:

Xander came out of denial only to be kidnapped, Voidian Husks were drawn to the death toll of Los Angeles, Dawn’s made from Buffy & Spike, D.U.S.T. have permanently locked down L.A., and Buffy had a dream hinting at a possible victory.

The 'Tragedy' Genre will be added as a result of Los Angeles, as it will continue to be abandoned long after this story is over.

'The Serpent Curse' is a spin off series & sequel to this story, it will follow Salazar through alternate realities as he messes up other Buffy’s lives. The first story in the series will take place in season 6, where a newly resurrected & depressed Buffy with have to deal with Salazar. The stories in this series will be smaller, about 15 chapters each, they will also be smaller in the word count, but not by too much. What other season do you want Salazar to appear in? Pre-series & Post-series count as well.

Anyway, like all the other chapters this is all done by me. Let me know what you think.

Chapter 12: Chapter 12 - Kidnapped Carpenter

Notes:

This chapters extremely dark in places.

A lot of stuff happens in this chapter 

More Information revealed, and a confrontation takes place.

A new enemy arrives in Sunnydale, only he isn't allied to either Salazar or Buffy.

Characters updated with this chapter.

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

It was 10 am and they were gathered in the main room. Buffy filled them all in on the dream, and Sirrus filled them in on The Serpent Curse.

 

Dawn looked shocked, “So you’re telling me we win, only you don’t know how? And you do something to anger Salazar enough that he curses you? Which doesn’t effect you but every other Buffy in every other reality?”

 

Buffy nods, “Pretty much.”

 

Jonathan looked thoughtful, “I don’t think the curse will affect you specifically.”

 

Giles looks at him intrigued, “What’s your theory Jonathan?”

 

“Well, I believe that because this Buffy has already faced Salazar she’s already faced the criteria of the curse. Because if she hadn’t then the first one the curse would affect is this Buffy, with her being the one to anger him enough to cast it, but as Buffy saw in her dream it’s a totally different Buffy that’s affected. I don’t think the curse works the way you originally thought it did, not this specific one anyway. I think it might be activated by something the other Buffy’s won’t do that this Buffy did, not the other way round.”

 

Hornet looked impressed, “That could be spot on. The question is now what won’t the other Buffy’s do? I mean there’s plenty of possibilities, she won’t stand up to her friends, she...”He trails off as his eyes widened with realisation, “She thought all humans were good! If anything’s going to offend Salazar it’ll be that. The other Buffy’s will be in that belief still because they haven’t faced Salazar, of course!”

 

“That means every single Buffy living in that delusion is a possible target.” Sirrus said with a sigh.

 

“Wait. I just noticed that Xander isn’t here.” Gunn said as he looked around the room.

 

That made everyone else look around as well, only to discover Xander wasn’t there.

 

Sirrus frowns, “Hornet go and wake him up. He’s responsible for this mess so he needs to be here.”

 

Hornet nods and takes off upstairs towards Xander’s room, as he reaches the door he knocks.

 

“Come on Harris! Rise & Shine!” He frowns when he gets no response, not even a noise. He opens the door to discover the rooms empty apart from a note on the bed, he picks it up and begins to read.

 

‘I couldn’t sleep because of the nightmares, I needed some fresh air and to take a walk.

I should be back before any of you notice I’m gone.

Xander.’

 

“Balls!” He leaves the room with the note in hand. He enters the living room and passed the note directly to Sirrus.

 

Sirrus reads the note, “Fuck Sake!”

 

Sirrus passed the note for everyone else to read it as well, shouted words and exclaims followed one by one as people read the note.

 

“Bedlam check the monitors. We need to know where he is.” Sirrus ordered once everyone read the note.

 

He nods and walks over to the main monitor and after pressing some buttons he found what he was looking for.

 

Everyone watched shocked as Xander walked down the street only to be approached by some demons & humans, after that they watched all the event take place right up to his kidnapping.

 

Hornet breaks the silence, “Salazar has him.”

 

Everyone’s eyes widened, Willow began to panic, “We have to get him back! I know Xander did some stupid stuff, but he’s been my best friend since kindergarten.”

 

“We’ll try. Launching a full scale assault on Salazar’s base of operations isn’t wise, especially since we can’t stop him until the denial demons been found.” Sirrus says matter-of-factly.

 

“We have to do something.” Spike’s voice was full of dread, “The Whelp knows who the key is.”

 

Everyone paled at that like they’d forgotten, “Oh God! What are we going to do?” Buffy asked panicked.

 

“We keep the Nibblet in the safehouse at all times, Salazar & Solomon can’t enter. It’ll be okay kitten. I won’t let anything happen to her.”

 

Buffy nods, “I know you won’t, and thank you.”

 

“Nothing to thank me for sweetheart.”

 

She hugs him tightly, Sirrus speaks up, “Spike’s right. Not under any means does Dawn leave this safehouse.”

 

Dawn nods, “Okay.” Everyone heard the fear in her response.

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

Xander was currently strapped to a surgical table naked, “Please stop!” He sobbed due to the pain.

 

Salazar & Solomon were stood nearby watching as their minions tortured him, one of them went dark and was currently using fire and acid to make his entire body unrecognisable.

 

“I could make it worse. If you want?” Salazar said with a smirk as he walks over.

 

“Nononono! Stop please!” He screamed as a demon dipped his hand in acid.

 

Salazar leans down to whisper to him, “Do you know what I’ve heard about? Hmm? I’ve heard about your little rape attempt on the slayer. You apparently didn’t realise how serious something like that is, especially to someone who sees you as family. I reckon it’s time you learn.” He finishes with a smirk as Xander’s eyes widened in horrified terror.

 

“Oh God! Don’t please!” Xander screeched do to the panic & terror.

 

Salazar looks at him in disgust, “Wonder if that’s what Buffy said?” He stands up and addresses a nearby spikey demon, “Show him what pain really is.”

 

The demon nods and unzips his pants, with Xander’s legs being held apart by the straps there wasn’t much he could do. After untucking himself the demon forces himself into Xander.

 

Xander screamed at the pain and force the demon used as his anal tissue was ripped apart.

 

Salazar smirks at his look of pain, then he gets a mock innocent look, “Oh, and did I forget to mention this specific demons sperms like acid to humans? I did? How silly of me.”

 

Xander screamed at the force the demon was using, after he registered Salazar’s words however, he began to panic tenfold.

 

“Nononono! Please just kill me!” He sobbed out.

 

“No fun until we’ve finished breaking you boy.” Solomon responds matter-of-factly.

 

Xander screamed in agony as the demon ejaculated inside him, “KILL ME PLEASE!!!!” the demon pulled out and tucked himself away.

 

“Already told you no.” Solomon said with an irritated sigh.

 

The other demon with the acid walks back over and begins burning Xander’s body again.

 

“NOOOOOO STOO...” His scream trailed off as he went catatonic due to the pain and because they weren’t letting him pass out.

 

Solomon smirks, “Well. I believe it’s time for round 2, don’t you?”

 

Salazar smirks in response, “Yeah I do.”

 

One of the minions grab Solomon as green smoke exits Ben & enters Xander.

 

******

 

Xander’s Mind

 

Solomon landed in the magic box, as Xander saw him he panicked.

 

“Nononono! This is my head! Leave me alone!” He begins backing away, he doesn’t have any of the wounds that he does in the real world.

 

“I’m going to enjoy this.” He said with a smirk.

 

Xander turned and ran out of the magic box, Solomon materialises in front of him.

 

“Leaving so soon? I’ve not even started. It’s rude to leave before the shows even begun.” He smirks, “Let’s take this up a notch shall we?” He clicks his fingers.

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

Salazar who was sitting in a nearby chair fell unconscious.

 

Some of the minions looked panicked, “Nothing to worry about. Master Solomon’s just pulled him in the boys mind.” Hanson reassured them.

 

They all calm at that.

 

******

 

Xander’s Mind

 

A green portal opens and Salazar walks out of it, Xander’s eyes widened in panic.

 

“NO PLEASE!!” He screamed.

 

They both laughed darkly at him, “Yes boy.” Solomon said with a smirk.

 

He backs away, “It’s not fair! I don’t have help against you!”

 

They both look thoughtful, “You’re right you don’t.” Salazar laughs.

 

Solomon shrugs, “Well I’m up for round 2, and with Salazar here as well....I can pull anyone I want in here. They don’t even have to be memories, so why not?” He clicks his fingers.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

Spike & Angel fall unconscious.

 

******

 

Spike & Angel appear in the street as Salazar & Solomon are approaching a terrified Xander.

 

“Harris!” They both exclaim in unison.

 

He turns to them, “Spike! Angel! Help me please!” He pleaded.

 

Solomon turns to them, “Are you ready for round 2?” He says with a smirk.

 

Spike & Angel’s eyes widened as they realised exactly what that meant.

 

******

 

Buffy’s cradling an unconscious Spike, “What’s happening? Spike! Spike! Spike!” She was panicking hysterically.

 

Bedlam looks thoughtful and waves his hand over Spike, “Bastard! Solomon’s gone for round 2.”

 

“What?” Buffy asked panicked.

 

“He’s gone into Xander’s Mind like he did Riley, and he’s pulled Spike & Angel inside.”

 

“We have to do something! I can’t lose him!” She shouts and clings to Spike rocking him back and forth.

 

“Bedlam? Do the same thing as last time. We need to see what’s happening.” Sirrus commands.

 

Bedlam nods and makes a mind link for the screen & to Spike, what they see causes Buffy’s panic to rise tenfold.

 

“Salazar! They’re both in there!” She now has tears running down her face as she starts babbling incoherently to Spike. Words like ‘Don’t leave me’ and ‘I love you’ were the only words the rest of them could make out.

 

Hornet’s staring at the screen, “He brought Salazar in to make his mind manipulation power stronger. That means he can pull in anyone or anything, and he doesn’t need a memory to do it.”

 

Giles looked deeply concerned, “Anyone or anything? Dear Lord!”

 

“We have to hope they can still pull us in.” Arkillius said determined.

 

“Why would they pull Spike & Angel in out of everyone here? It doesn’t make sense.” Dawn asked confused.

 

“Oh but it does, they know about Xander’s demon hatred and pulled the vampires he hated the most in to save him. It’s genius level manipulation.” Sirrus said matter-of-factly.

 

******

 

Spike & Angel approached Salazar & Solomon, the fight began Spike vs. Salazar and Angel vs. Solomon.

 

Spike was keeping Salazar on his toes, but they seemed evenly matched in fighting skill.

 

Angel however, wasn’t doing nearly as well as Spike was, he was getting some hits in but they were only making Solomon laugh, which in turn pissed Angel off.

 

Xander was watching the fight with his fingers crossed, hoping beyond hope that Spike & Angel win.

 

Solomon grew bored with Angel and knocks him into Spike, they both stumbled then righted themselves as Salazar & Solomon stand looking at them with raised eyebrows.

 

Spike & Angel back off and grab Xander on the way past, “Come on Whelp, we need to find memories of everyone else.” Spike said while still backing away, it appears they have nothing to worry about though as Salazar & Solomon were letting them walk away.

 

“We’ll see you soon!” Salazar called after them and gave them a little wave like an excited child.

 

Angel, Spike & Xander turned around and ran.

 

******

 

“They need to be careful. Letting Solomon wonder around freely in Finn’s head was how he learnt half the stuff he did.” Bedlam said while pacing.

 

Giles eyes widened, “He watched Riley’s memories of course! I was wondering how he knew so much information about us.” His expression turns severe, “But what on earth could he learn about us from Xander’s memories? I fear actually finding out.”

 

Hornet snorts, “That’s the least of your worries. In case you’ve forgot Harris has been there for every Big bad you’ve faced.”

 

Giles & Wesley’s eyes widened in realisation.

 

******

 

They find themselves in the Sunnydale high library, before the school blew up a young Buffy’s sat at the table reading something.

 

Spike run over to her, “Buffy! Come on sweetheart!” He grabs her biceps and shakes.

 

******

 

Buffy falls unconscious on top of Spike.

 

“So they haven’t stopped them from pulling others in, that’s good.” Anne said with a sigh of relief.

 

Bedlam frowns, “It’s also bad.”

 

“What? Why?” she asked confused.

 

“Because as we’ve pointed out before, Salazar & Solomon aren’t stupid. I find it hard to believe that they forgot to block it. Meaning they have a plan and Buffy, Spike, Angel & Harris are walking straight into it.”

 

Everyone looked extremely concerned at the information.

 

******

 

Buffy jolts to herself in the old high school library, “Great I’m 17 again.” She muttered, then she realised who pulled her in, “Spike! She jumped out of the chair and jumped on him wrapping her arms around his neck and her legs around his waist. “Oh God! I was so worried!” she proceeds to kiss him all over his face.

 

He wrapped his arms around her waist, “I’m happy to see you too.”

 

She unhooks herself from him then climbs down, “We have to find a way to get everyone else in here.”

 

He nods, “Yeah with Salazar in here as well this time it’s going to be harder to beat them.”

 

Angel looks around the room, “We have to find another memory.”

 

They nod and leave the room, as they walk through the library doors they find themselves in the Crawford Street Mansion.

 

“Bollocks this definitely isn’t somewhere I wanted to be again.” Spike said agitated.

 

“Me neither.” Buffy said as she looks around the room.

 

They enter the main room and stop dead in their tracks. It was the memory of Acathla, Buffy & Angelus were fighting in the middle of the room.

 

All of a sudden the memory flickered like a glitch was occurring, after it stopped and went back to normal, Angelus turned and smirked at them.

 

“Well, isn’t this just lovely, Soul Boy, Willy, Harris & Buff.”

 

Their eyes widened at the fact he addressed them, “This can’t be happening.” Buffy said wide eyed.

 

“But it is Buff. Aren’t you glad to see me?” He asked with a mock puppy dog look.

 

“Hell No! I can’t stand you.”

 

Angelus gave her a mock hurt look, “That’s not nice.” His expression changed, “Let’s finish this.” He charges them.

 

******

 

“Dear Lord!” Giles exclaims, “What’s happening? The memory of Angelus just came to life and started attacking them.”

 

Bedlam looked thoughtful but stayed quiet, he couldn’t be sure if his theory was correct yet.

 

Tara looks determined, “Angelus?”

 

He turns to her, “Yeah?”

 

“I have an idea.”

 

He smirks, “I’m all ears.”

 

******

 

Good Angelus jolts into the room, “Well well well. If it isn’t the paedophile.” He addresses Evil Angelus with a smirk.

 

He turns and his eyes widened, “What Is this?” He demanded.

 

“You’re worst nightmare. A good version of you, and I don’t mean Soul Boy over there. I’m a hundred percent Angelus.”

 

“We’ll see about that.”

 

They charge at each other and collide in the centre of the room. Everyone watched on fascinated, it was Angelus vs. Angelus.

 

******

 

Bedlam looks at Tara amazed, “That was bloody brilliant. You could send our Angelus in because another one was there. Why didn’t I think of that?”

 

Hornet chuckles, “I wouldn’t expect anything less from the daughter of Venessdruss.”

 

******

 

Evil & Good Angelus’s fists connect with each others faces simultaneously causing each other to stumble.

 

They right themselves and charge at each other again. Punches, kicks & headbutts connected, Good Angelus grabs the Evil ones arm and kicks him in the ribs, after his foot connects he releases his arm making him fall to the floor.

 

“Is that the best you’ve got? I’m embarrassed to be a version of you.” He said tauntingly to the Evil Angelus.

 

“Shut Up! You’re not me you can’t be, I won’t be good.” He snapped back angrily.

 

“Yes we all get it. You’re Evil.” They all span to see Salazar & Solomon leant against the wall mocking them.

 

Evil Angelus takes the element of surprise and tries to attack the good one.

 

He seems to have known exactly what he was doing, as he turned while pulling something out of his pocket and staked Evil Angelus effectively dusting him.

 

Angel looks dumbfounded, “How did you know he’d do that?”

 

Angelus shrugs, “He’s me, and the evil versions a pussy he doesn’t fight fair.”

 

Salazar huffs, “I told you letting the kiddie fiddler roam free was a mistake. We should’ve dusted that jumped up paedophile.”

 

Solomon rolls his eyes, “So you did. I apologise your greatness, I’ll make sure to listen in the future.” He replied sarcastically.

 

Salazar rolls his eyes back at him, “Now isn’t the time for sarcasm granddad.” He turns to the others, “We’ll give you a breather, but we won’t be gone long.”

 

They both turn into smoke and fly out the mansion.

 

Angelus snorts after they left, “You can definitely tell they’re related.”

 

The others nod and they all leave the mansion as well, as they pass through the doors they find themselves back in the library and Faith was there.

 

They approach her, “Faith!” Buffy shouts and shakes her.

 

******

 

Faith falls unconscious.

 

******

 

Faith jolts to Buffy shaking her, “Yo B, how’s it hanging?”

 

“Just peachy.”

 

“Peaches? Buffy wants you.”

 

Angelus & Xander chuckled at that, Angel, Faith & Buffy roll their eyes, but Buffy was trying to smother a smile.

 

“I suppose we keep travelling around to find everyone else?” Angel asked curiously.

 

“Oh! That’s right Bedlam said he thinks Salazar & Solomon are letting you pull people in here. He thinks they’ve got a plan.” Faith informs them.

 

Angelus slaps his forehead, “I knew there was something I forgot to tell you.”

 

“Don’t sweat it I forgot till Angel asked that.” Faith said with a shrug.

 

“Great! What are those sneaky bastards up to now?” Spike growled out.

 

“We aren’t gonna know till it happens.” Buffy said worried.

 

He sighs, “You’re right. Let’s see if we can find anymore memories.”

 

The others nod and they all leave.

 

As they begin walking through the school Xander speaks up, “OK, anyone else find it weird that we’re still in the school? I mean every door we’ve been through took us somewhere different.”

 

“Yeah actually I do.” Buffy said as she looks around suspiciously.

 

“Wait. Look! It’s Wesley.” Xander points down the hallway.

 

The rest look where he’s pointing, and he’s correct Wesley is walking down the hallway. It looks as if he’s on his way to the library.

 

They run over to him, “Wesley! Wes! Oxford!” Multiple voices call out as they grab him and shake.

 

******

 

Wesley falls unconscious.

 

******

 

Wesley jolts in to find Buffy, Faith, Spike & Angel shaking him, “Well that was certainly quite the experience.” He said as he proceeds to clean his glasses.

 

“Glad your here, we need to find everyone else.” Angel said in way of greeting.

 

Wesley nods, “Yes, you’re quite right.”

 

They take off down the hallway and end up in the hospital, Buffy was instantly on alert as this was a memory of when Xander visited her, when she had the flu.

 

“We need to be careful. I know what this memory is. It’s from when I had the flu.”

 

Wesley frowns, “What’s the significance of you having the flu? What do we need to watch out for?”

 

Her eyes widen and she points down the hallway, “That!”

 

They all turn to see what she was pointing at, only for them all to freeze. The Der Kindestod was walking slowly towards them, only it had glowing green eyes.

 

“Bollocks!” Spike exclaims, “It’s a Der Kindestod.”

 

Xander backed off, “Holy Moly! That looks a lot worse than it’s picture.”

 

Buffy holds her hand up, “Wait. I killed it while ill with the flu last time, it’s not going to be a problem now.”

 

She takes on the Der Kindestod as it reaches them, only it seems stronger than the original, it jumps over her leg sweep and spin kicks her in mid air.

 

She stumbles and Spike grabs her, “OK it definitely wasn’t that strong last time.”

 

“Maybe it’s been given a power boost? It didn’t have green eyes last time either, from what you told us anyway.” Xander responded as he backed further away from it.

 

“Doesn’t matter.” Spike growled out, “Oxford? Keep Harris with you.” He turns to face the Der Kindestod, “Let’s do this.”

 

Buffy, Faith, Angel & Angelus line up beside him, the Der Kindestod smirks then charges. The fight begins, it seems to have amazing fighting skills, flips, kicks, punches, dodges, blocks, it even kicked itself off the wall to give it a boost forward and it’s foot connected with Faith.

 

******

 

“Why’s it that strong?” Anne asked shocked.

 

“Salazar & Solomon can share knowledge. Meaning the fighting skills you’re seeing are theirs.” Bedlam informs them.

 

“Great! Just what we need.” She huffed.

 

******

 

After being knocked about by the Der Kindestod, Angelus had enough. He sneak attacked it snapping it’s neck with ease.

 

Everyone looked at him & he shrugs, “It pissed me off.”

 

“Hey I’m not complaining. It’s dead now.” Buffy said with a shrug of her own.

 

“We should move on, no telling what else could arrive.” Wesley said while looking around.

 

The rest nod and walk towards the doors, as the enter them they end up back in the Sunnydale high hallways, as Xander looks around he bumps into a memory of Jesse causing it to jolt.

 

“Xander? What’s going on man?” Jesse asked confused.

 

Xander stares at him speechless.

 

******

 

“How the fucks he just done that?” Hornet asked incredulously.

 

Bedlam’s looking at the screen wide eyed, “I have no sodding idea.”

 

Giles looked shocked, “Jesse McNally's dead. How is this possible?”

 

“If that was Solomon I wouldn’t have questioned it, but the fact Harris did it. That’s left me baffled.” Bedlam said completely shocked.

 

Willow was just staring at the screen wide eyed, not being able to even speak.

 

“Could it be a side effect? I mean Solomon is technically possessing Xander.” Jonathan asked curiously.

 

Bedlam looks thoughtful, “It’s possible I suppose. That’s the best explanation we’ve got.”

 

******

 

“Jesse?” Buffy asked shocked.

 

He turns to her, “Buffy? What’s going on? Why’s the school empty?”

 

“Jesse? You’re dead. How could you be standing here?”

 

He looks shocked and confused, “I’m dead?”

 

“Not yet, but very soon child.” They all span around and gasped in shock as their eyes fell on The Master, full in all his bat faced glory.

 

“How? You’re dust.” Buffy said with a tremor in her voice.

 

“Not so much.” He replied with a shrug.

 

They all start slowly backing away.

 

He looks at Spike in disappointment, “Really William? Helping the slayer?” He turns to Angel & Angelus, “Angelus I’m just as disappointed in you.”

 

Angel shrugs, “Well you know me and Spike weren’t big on your praise to begin with, so it makes no difference to us.”

 

“Yes, I’m well aware how much you both disrespected me. I’m The Master for a reason, I think it’s time to remind you of that.”

 

“Well come on Bat Face, we don’t have all day.” Spike said tauntingly.

 

He sighs, “No I suppose we don’t.” He charges them.

 

******

 

“Heinrich Nest. It’s been a while since I last saw him.” Sirrus commented.

 

“What on earth’s happening? He doesn’t have green eyes like the Der Kindestod, meaning Salazar & Solomon aren’t responsible for this.” Giles asked incredulously.

 

“I don’t know, but I’m sure we’ll find out soon enough.”

 

******

 

The Master was holding his own, Buffy, Faith, Spike, Angel & Angelus were doing the best they could, but it wasn’t enough. Xander, Jesse & Wesley were just stood to the side watching.

 

“What’s happening?” Jesse asked in disbelief.

 

“We’re in my head. Jesse man you died, I don’t know how you’re here, but it’s good to see you again.”

 

“We’re in your head? How?” He ignored the part where he died, deciding he’d rather not know.

 

“Two bad guys that are called Salazar & Solomon kidnapped me & tortured me. They entered my head to mess with me.”

 

Before Jesse could respond Angel slid across the floor towards them, Angel stood up with a growl and jumped back in the fight.

 

They realised they couldn’t beat him, so they decided to retreat. They backed off grabbed the others and bolted.

 

As they got away from him Buffy turns to Spike, “What the hell? I mean I know he killed me but he wasn’t that tough, it was mostly his thrall that was the problem.”

 

“He wasn’t The Master of the Aurelius Order for nothing. He didn’t consider you a threat the first time around.” Spike said with a shrug.

 

“Great! That’s just great, I think you’re the only enemy I had who took me seriously.”

 

“Oh I don’t know about that.” They all turned to the voice to find Salazar & Solomon stood at the end of the hallway.

 

“What do you want?” Xander asked with a tremor.

 

“To introduce you to someone.” Solomon said cryptically, he clicks his fingers and a man steps out of a green portal.

 

******

 

“Holy Shit It’s Stygian!” Sirrus exclaims.

 

Everyone’s eyes widened.

 

******

 

Salazar smirks, “Thought I’d introduce you to my father.”

 

This causes Buffy, Spike, Faith, Angel, Angelus, Wesley & Xander’s eyes to widen. He’s dressed in black like Salazar & Solomon, his hair looks exactly like Salazar’s except the comb over hair at the tops black instead of blonde, and his sides are blonde instead of black. He’s wearing leather pants and a silk button up shirt, he’s also wearing steel toecap boots and a long coat similar to Salazar. He has green eyes the same as Salazar of course, and a tattoo of a snake on the back of his right hand.

 

“Salazar? My boy.” He hugs him, then he turns to Solomon, “Dad? Who the fuck are you wearing?” He asked confused.

 

“Story for another time Stygian.”

 

He shrugs, “Fine by me.” He turns to the good guys, as his eyes landed on Buffy they widened, “YOU!!” He bellowed in rage, “You’re not the one who locked me up, but you’re definitely a version of her.”

 

Buffy’s eyes widen, as Salazar turns to her with pure black eyes, “You! You’re the reason my mum’s dead!”

 

******

 

“Okay I definitely wasn’t expecting that.” Hornet said gobsmacked.

 

“I think we might have found out the reason he curses her.” Bedlam adds on shocked.

 

******

 

Stygian looks like his entire worlds just been shattered, “Elizabeth’s dead?”

 

“Yes, after you disappeared our enemies that feared you attacked us. Mum died in the battle.”

 

Stygian, Salazar & Solomon all looked at her with a murderous look.

 

They all slowly backed away, The Master reappeared, but Stygian in his anger dusted him with a click of his fingers.

 

“What the hells going on? Who are you people?” Jesse asked in disbelief.

 

Stygian didn’t even answer, without taking his eyes off Buffy he takes out a dagger and throws it, which impales in Jesse’s head making him fall to the floor dead.

 

“NOOOOO!!!” Xander screamed.

 

“Yes.” Stygian said as he looks at them emotionless.

 

They grab Xander and run, leaving Stygian, Salazar & Solomon watching them as they ran.

 

“You two need to find a way to get me out. I’m ending this.” Stygian said through clenched teeth.

 

“Don’t worry dad, we will.”

 

******

 

“This isn’t good. Buffy’s got The Serpent Family actually mad at her, that’s the worst thing anyone can do.” Sirrus said while pacing.

 

“I wonder what happened with this other Buffy?” Giles asked intrigued.

 

“I don’t know myself. Hornet? Call around find out any information you can.”

 

Hornet nods and takes out his phone.

 

******

 

They were running through the halls, after they passed through a door they ended up In the magic box.

 

Buffy sits at the table with a sigh, “So another Buffy locked away Stygian, which resulted in Salazar’s mom being killed. I think I know why he curses me now.”

 

“But it wasn’t you specifically.” Angel said confused.

 

“It doesn’t matter, the curse effects all the Buffy’s so he’ll get her as well.”

 

“Yes I must agree. However that leaves us with another problem, we know Why he’s casting the curse, we just don’t know When.” Wesley informed them.

 

“Meaning we still can’t stop it happening.” Faith said with a sigh.

 

“Exactly.” He replied with a nod.

 

“I reckon we should move. It’s not smart staying in one place too long.” Spike said matter-of-factly.

 

Buffy nods, “Yeah let’s move.” She gets up and they leave through a door, and they end up in Ethan’s costume shop from Halloween.

 

“Hey, is this Ethan’s store?” Xander asked curiously. It’s the first time he spoke since Jesse was killed...again.

 

“Yeah let’s try and find him.” Buffy replied as she walks to the back of the shop.

 

They find him in the back of the shop looking through the stock. “Ethan!” multiple voices shout as they grab and shake him.

 

******

 

Ethan falls unconscious.

 

******

 

Ethan jolts to find Buffy, Faith, Angel, Spike, Angelus & Wesley shaking him.

 

“Bloody hell, that was an experience.”

 

“Glad you could join us mate.” Spike said amused.

 

“Yes I’m terrific, thanks for asking.” He said sarcastically.

 

“Not a problem pal.” Spike says with a smirk.

 

He rolls his eyes, “Bloody brilliant, a comedian. That’s all we need.”

 

“Suck it up, we have to find a way to get the rest in here.” Faith said with a sigh.

 

“Yes let’s do that.” He said with a nod.

 

******

 

“How did you pull us all in last time Tara?” Bedlam asked curiously.

 

“I don’t k-know.” She furrowed her brow in concentration, “When I-It looked bad l-last time it was like a knowledge came to m-me, and I knew I could d-do it.”

 

He nods, “That makes sense. You haven’t tested or trained your demigod abilities yet.”

 

“So we have to wait until something happens to trigger her knowledge?” Anne asked curiously.

 

“Yeah exactly.”

 

******

 

They were walking down a street looking around for other memories.

 

The wind picked up all of a sudden and it was raining heavily, as they looked up at the roof of a nearby building Stygian, Salazar & Solomon were looking down at them.

 

Stygian smirks, “I think it’s time you see how dangerous I am.” With that he raises his hands in the air and a giant snake appeared out of nowhere. It was black & green with green eyes, only its face looked more demonic than a normal snake, with horns and sharp teeth.

 

“Oh God! It’s huge!” Buffy said in fear as they backed up.

 

******

 

“No.” Sirrus whispers.

 

“What is it?” William who heard his whisper asked.

 

“A Serpent Beast. They are extremely dangerous, much worse than The Serpent Warriors.”

 

“What are we going to do?” Anne asked panicked.

 

“I don’t know. The real thing is extremely deadly, the illusion could be weaker but with how strong it already is that won’t be by much.”

 

*****

 

They were all running through the streets, The Serpent Beast was hot on their heals. They run into a nearby building and find themselves back in the high school.

 

“That was way bigger than the mayor.” Buffy panted out as she caught her breath.

 

“How the hell are we supposed to beat that?” Xander asked shocked.

 

“I don’t know. But we need to.”

 

“Hey it’s Jonathan and the other one.” Spike said as he looked through a classroom door.

 

The rest look as well, and discover Andrew & Jonathan in the middle of a class.

 

******

 

Jonathan & Andrew fall unconscious.

 

“What the hells just happened? They didn’t even touch them.” Sirrus asked hastily.

 

Bedlam looks from Jonathan to Andrew then back to the screen, “Solomon’s just pulled them in, he’s watching from somewhere.”

 

Sirrus starts pacing, “Lovely. They won’t stand a chance against them.” He turns to Tara, “I need you to look inside yourself and find that ability. They need us in there.”

 

She nods and begins meditating.

 

******

 

Jonathan & Andrew jolt and look at the classroom door shocked.

 

“What’s just happened? That wasn’t us.” Buffy asked incredulously.

 

They both exit the classroom as Serpent Warriors crash through the main doors to the high school.

 

“Balls! Gotta move kitten.” Spike said as he grabs Buffy’s arm and runs with the others hot on their heals.

 

******

 

“Where did the Serpent Warriors come from?” Gunn asked befuddled.

 

“The Serpent Beast can’t fit in the school. So they brought it help.” Bedlam informs them.

 

“The only problem is which one made them? Stygian’s & Salazar’s are a lot stronger than Solomon’s with them being in their actual bodies.” Arkillius asked concerned.

 

******

 

“We need to keep moving!” Buffy shouts to the others.

 

“Well aware of that slayer!” Ethan responds.

 

They run through a door and they end up on a random street.

 

“Well if it isn’t the slayers.” The voice made Faith freeze in horror.

 

She slowly turns and her eyes widen in terror, “Nononono! You’re dust.”

 

“Not anymore Faith.” Kakistos responded with a smirk.

 

******

 

“This isn’t good.” Bedlam’s voice was grim.

 

“What’s happening?” Fred said concerned.

 

“With having all 3 of The Serpents in his mind it’s slowly shutting down, and effectively bringing everyone in their to life....and dragging everyone else’s memories in as well.”

 

“Oh God! What’s going to happen next?” Anne said panicked and clung to William’s side.

 

******

 

“Kakistos.” Faith said as she backed away.

 

The name makes Angel, Angelus & Spike’s eyes widen, and they back away.

 

“Not just him.” Evil Angelus, The Master & Kralik step up beside Kakistos.

 

Everyone’s eyes widened.

 

******

 

“I thought Stygian dusted The Master?” Anne said confused.

 

“He did. The one from Xander’s Mind, that one’s from Buffy’s that’s why Kralik's there too.” Bedlam explained.

 

“Oh they need our help.”

 

“Not really. Xander isn’t mentally strong enough to hold Stygian, Salazar & Solomon all at once. Meaning they’re bringing these memories to life by accident, so if they see them they’ll probably dust them themselves. The ones with glowing green eyes are memories they brought to life.”

 

“Meaning that first Angelus wasn’t theirs either. It makes sense how Salazar & Solomon mocked him now.” Lawson said with understanding.

 

******

 

They backed off as the four vampires approached them, “Do you really think you beat me last time girly?” Kralik asked as he approached Buffy.

 

“I’ve got my powers this time.” She replied through clenched teeth.

 

“Well that’s no fun.” He replied but struck her anyway.

 

The fight was on, Angel & Angelus took on The Evil Angelus, Buffy took on Kralik, Spike took on The Master, and Kakistos was approaching a terrified Faith.

 

******

 

Lawson looked at the screen in horror, “Send me in there! I don’t care what you have to do. Faith needs me.”

 

Tara’s eyes snap open and she grabs Lawson’s hand, he falls unconscious, Tara then let go and went back to meditating.

 

Everyone looked at her shocked, Arkillius shrugs and says, “Demigods.” Then turns back to the screen.

 

*******

 

Faith was still backing away as Lawson stepped up beside her, “You looked like you could use a little help.”

 

She looks at him eyes full of awe, “Lawson? Is that really you?”

 

“Yeah it’s me.” He smiles at her then vamps and turns to Kakistos, “Bring it.” He growled out.

 

Kakistos growled back, “Gladly.” They charged each other.

 

Faith started to gain confidence, knowing Lawson came because she was in trouble, ‘I think I love him. I’ve never been in love before I’ll have to ask Buffy if this is what it feels like.’ She then stepped up as Kakistos knocked Lawson to the floor. “Hey! Hooves off my guy.” She snapped angrily.

 

Before he could respond a dark voice calls out, “If anyone’s killing the goody goods it’ll be The Serpent Family.” They all turn around to see Stygian, Salazar & Solomon stood further up the street, with The Serpent Warriors behind them & The Serpent Beast towering above them.

 

Everyone’s eyes widened, including The Master, Angelus, Kralik & Kakistos’s as well.

 

Evil Angelus was about to taunt them, but before he can say a word he’s dusted by Salazar throwing a stake.

 

Stygian steps forward and addresses Kralik, Kakistos & The Master, “You heard what my son said. They only die in the name of The Serpent Family.”

 

“I’m The Master of Aurelius! I do as I please.” The Master responds outraged.

 

“Wrong answer.” He makes a fist with his hand and The Master bursts into flames.

 

Kralik seeing this realised how dangerous they were and kneels down on one knee.

 

“I pledge my servitude Masters.”

 

“Good. Come here.” Stygian ordered.

 

Kralik stands and does just that.

 

******

 

“Bollocks!” Hornet exclaims, “That’s definitely not good.” He came back into the room a while ago.

 

“Why? He’s just a memory isn’t he?” Dawn asked confused.

 

“At the moment yes. But that doesn’t mean the 3 of them can’t recreate his body. It’s only dust after all.”

 

“Oh God! That means any enemy we’ve ever faced could come back.” Anne’s voice was full of fear at the thought.

 

******

 

Kralik steps up in front of them and all three of them hold up one hand each palm forward and a tornado of dust begins spinning around Kralik, little did the good guys know the same thing was happening in Salazar’s Stronghold. After the tornado finished he looked up at them, then they put their hands to his chest and green electricity passed from them to him.

 

Kralik turns to Buffy & the others, “The Power!” He exclaims then begins laughing.

 

Buffy looked on in horror as Kralik now had glowing green eyes & veins like Riley did. She takes a step forward thinking she can stop Kralik now instead of later, only for a screamed “BUFFY!!!” to cut through her thoughts as she’s knocked to the floor by Andrew. She looks up to ask ‘What the hell are you playing at?’ only to scream herself “NOOOO!!!”

 

Jonathan’s scream can be heard louder than Buffy’s can, “ANDREW!!!”

 

It turns out Andrew pushed her out the way before The Serpent Beast could eat her....and got eaten himself instead.

 

******

 

Bedlam walks over to Andrew, “I’m sorry. He’s braindead.” He said sadly & apologetically.

 

Everyone gasps at that, “He died saving Buffy.” Anne said with tears in her eyes.

 

Sirrus looks at Andrew’s body sadly, “He did. He died a hero, and he’ll never be forgotten. Bedlam? Put him somewhere comfy. We can’t Bury him yet, we might be needed to help the others.”

 

Bedlam nodded sadly and picks up Andrew’s body, he takes him into a spare room and lays him on the bed.

 

When Bedlam walks back into the room they all watched the screen in silence, no one really knowing what else to say.

 

******

 

Spike grabs Buffy & Jonathan, “Come on we can’t stay here.”

 

They all take off running, Jonathan was sobbing, and Buffy felt guilty for not paying attention.

 

The last thing they saw before they escaped through a door was Kakistos dusted by Salazar. They ended up In the library again.

 

Jonathan looked pale, “Andrew’s gone. Oh God! My best friends gone.” He broke down more than before, everyone just let him cry it out.

 

“I’m sorry if I was paying attention that wouldn’t have happened.” Buffy said with tears running down her face.

 

“No, Andrew did what he had to. He knew you’re the one to stop Salazar. I don’t blame you Buffy. I blame him.” With that he pointed directly at Xander, “Your wish brought him here! All those people in L.A., Warren, Willy, Andrew, Graham, the police, Sunnydale’s military and God knows who else. They’re all gone because of you & Riley, except Riley’s dead as well.”

 

Xander looked deeply ashamed and guilty, “I know. I’m so sorry.”

 

“Sorry doesn’t cut it. Because you thought you knew more about the supernatural than actual supernatural beings. You’ve doomed us all. As well as all those other Buffy’s when the curse is cast, who knows who he’ll kill in those other worlds? He could kill that Xander, that Willow, that Dawn. The possibilities are endless and all because you couldn’t stand the fact a vampire knew more than you.”

 

“I was an idiot. I’m sorry again.”

 

“Your sorry won’t bring Andrew back! Or anyone else for that matter!” He shouts in a rage and punches him, which Xander let’s happen.

 

No one interrupted Jonathan in his rant because he was right. All this occurred because Xander & Riley didn’t like the fact Spike was right about something.

 

Spike puts a comforting hand on Jonathan’s shoulder, “We’ll stop them. You have my word mate.”

 

“And mine.” Ethan adds on.

 

“We’ll make Andrew proud.” Buffy said determined.

 

“They shall not get away with this, rest assured Jonathan.” Wesley said with a nod.

 

“We’re gonna kick their ass man.” Faith said with her own determination.

 

“After that denial demons been found we’re ending this.” Angel growled out.

 

“Yeah we are.” Angelus said as he patted Jonathan’s shoulder.

 

“You didn’t just lose a friend, we lost a teammate. Salazar will pay for this. They all will.” Lawson said dangerously.

 

Jonathan wipes the tears away, “You’re right. Thank you.”

 

They all nod then they decide to move on, as they exit the library they end up in the initiative.

 

“God! I hate this place.” Spike said agitated.

 

“Me too. Hopefully we’re not here long.” Buffy said as she took Spike’s hand and squeezed it.

 

He squeezes it back, “Come on kitten. We have to find everyone else.”

 

She nods and they begin walking down the hallway, only when they turn the corner they come face to face with Salazar, Stygian, Solomon & Kralik.

 

“This Is where you ran off to.” Stygian said tauntingly, “I’m not pleased, your friend got stuck In my Serpent Beasts teeth.” He said with a smirk.

 

“You Bastards!” Buffy snapped angrily.

 

“Temper Temper. It doesn’t do you well to mess with us.”

 

Spike grabs her and they all run, “We’re no match for them alone. We need the rest.” He said as they all pass through a door and end up in Revello drive.

 

“Well isn’t this place cosy?” Salazar said with a smirk.

 

“You followed us.” Buffy said through clenched teeth.

 

He rolls his eyes, “Obviously.”

 

Buffy looks around the room, then pales as she remembered what memory this was.

 

The memory played out, “Guys? Dawn’s the Key.” Memory Buffy said, it was the day she told them the truth.

 

Salazar’s eyes widened, “It’s your sister?” He smirks, “How informative.” He laughs then turns to smoke and leaves the house.

 

Everyone was pale, “No.” Buffy whispers terrified, “He knows Spike, he knows.”

 

“I know sweetheart I know.” Everyone could hear the dread in his voice.

 

******

 

Dawn’s shaking in terror, “Oh God! He knows I’m the key! What are we going to do?”

 

Joyce, Hank, William & Anne were panicking themselves.

 

“That’s why we told you to stay in the safehouse. He can’t get you here.” Sirrus said reassuringly.

 

She nods, “OK.” But they could still hear the fear in her voice.

 

Tara’s eyes snapped open, “It’s time.”

 

“Right on cue.” Hornet said as he was looking at the screen.

 

Everyone looked at the screen to see Buffy and the others on a street, with Salazar & the others stood at the other end.

 

“Right let’s do this.” Sirrus said with determination.

 

******

 

Buffy, Spike, Lawson, Faith, Ethan, Angel & Angelus were stood in a line, Anne, William, Oz, Sirrus, Arkillius, Hornet, Bedlam & Tara stepped up beside them. Xander, Wesley & Jonathan stayed back.

 

Stygian smirks, “Sirrus! Long time no see!” He shouts down the street at them.

 

“It’s time to finish this Stygian!” He shouts back.

 

“Yes it is!”

 

Bedlam opens a portal and a huge red Dragon fly’s out of it. “You’ve brought your pet! I thought I’d bring mine!”

 

The dragon exhales smoke through its nose as it stares down The Serpent Beast.

 

Buffy & the others are staring at the dragon wide eyed, “What do you say Stygian?! You ready to do this?!” Hornet said with a smirk.

 

“More than ready!”

 

They all charge each other, the dragon fly’s straight at The Serpent Beast dragging it to the ground. Sirrus & Bedlam take on Stygian, Arkillius & Hornet take on Salazar, William & Spike take on Solomon, and Buffy & Anne take on Kralik. That leaves the others to deal with The Serpent Warriors.

 

Ethan was doing amazing not only with the spells but also the fighting, the knowledge Bedlam implanted in his head was obviously helping.

 

Oz had wolfed and charged the Warriors, ripping out throat after throat.

 

Lawson, Angelus, Angel & Faith were cutting down the enemy with ease.

 

The Serpent Beast lunged at the dragons throat, it flew high then slams down on top of it, causing a mini earthquake.

 

Tara was devastating The Serpent Warriors, which in turn drew Stygian’s attention to her.

 

“I’ve heard about you witch. Let’s see what you’ve got.” He broke off from Sirrus & Bedlam then charges her.

 

Tara stood her ground, only when they collide it soon becomes clear Stygian’s more skilful than Salazar & Solomon. He manages to use some amazing skills and land multiple hits.

 

The others finish off the last of The Serpent Warriors, and the dragon struck a killing blow on The Serpent Beast. Everyone was now watching Stygian and Tara, even Salazar, Solomon & Kralik stopped to watch.

 

Tara was obviously getting annoyed, that’s when the unbelievable happened, Tara skills increased tenfold. She used a shock wave to knock him back then struck, her fist connects directly with his face making him stumble.

 

He rights himself, “You want to fight with magic do you? No problem.” He begins glowing green and attacks, what shocked everyone with each hit that connected lightning ripped across the sky. Tara grabs both of his arms and manages to hurl him over her head with some speed, he begins levitating in the sky, then he fires a lightning bolt at her, it collides with an explosion, everyone looked panicked until the smoke cleared and she was inside a magical shield.

 

“I grow bored. Time to go.” She glows so bright its blinding, then a huge shock wave erupted from her and shot out in all directions, the world went white.

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

Salazar jolts back to himself and green smoke exits Xander and re-enters Ben.

 

Turns out Kralik’s body did return in the real world as well, as he jolts to himself.

 

“No!” Salazar raged and throws something against a wall causing it to shatter. “We need to get dad back. I’m going to make every Buffy suffer, It’s her fault mum’s gone. I think it’s time for The Serpent Curse.”

 

Solomon puts a hand on his shoulder, “Not yet. They’ll be expecting that, wait until the last minute, then do it.”

 

He nods, “OK.” He looks at Xander who’s back awake and shaking in fear, “I know just what to do.” He smirks.

 

Xander’s eyes widened in horror, “Please don’t hurt me anymore.”

 

“Hurt you? No mate, you’re mistaken I’m sending you home.”

 

Xander looked hopeful but suspicious, “Really? Why?”

 

He shrugs, “I want them to see the masterpiece that your body’s become.” He turns to Kralik, “Take him and dump him at the magic box.”

 

“Yes Master Salazar.” Kralik unstrapped Xander and begins to drag him out the room.

 

Solomon steps beside Salazar, “What despicable idea you got now?” He asked amused.

 

“You’ll see.” As Xander’s about to leave the main room Salazar nods to a female demon with blue tinted skin, she smirks then strokes Xander’s face, Xander recoiled in fear thinking she was going to hurt him. What Xander didn’t notice is his face glowing from where she touched him.

 

Solomon chuckles after they left the building, “Brilliant plan. He won’t know what’s hit him.”

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

They all came back to themselves, Sirrus wasted no time, “Bedlam? Get Andrew’s body. It’s time to bury him.”

 

Bedlam nods and goes to fetch him, after a couple of minutes he comes back down carrying Andrew, Jonathan teared up at the sight.

 

Bedlam leaves through the front doors and everyone followed him out, he walks a short distance then stops.

 

Hornet & Arkillius pass him with shovels and begin digging.

 

Everyone else came to a stop where Bedlam is. Jonathan was still in tears at the sight of his best friends body in Bedlam’s arms.

 

“Sirrus?” Jonathan’s voice was full of emotion, “I want you to teach me. How to fight, all of it. I want to join D.U.S.T., to help others, and to stop them losing friends & family.”

 

Sirrus puts a hand on his shoulder, “That’s the right thing to say. You didn’t ask for power, or for selfish reasons. You asked to help others, that’s exactly what D.U.S.T. are looking for. After we’ve buried Andrew, Bedlam will do the same for you that he’s done for Ethan. Give you knowledge on our fighting styles, techniques, and more. We’ll talk about you officially joining when this situation with Salazar’s over.”

 

He nods, “Thank you.”

 

Sirrus nods back but Hornet & Arkillius had finished with the grave, Bedlam used magic to create a type of coffin. After putting Andrew inside it he levitates it and places it in the grave. Hornet & Arkillius begin filling it back in.

 

Everyone watched in silence as Andrew was buried. After they’d finished burying him Bedlam created a headstone, it said ‘Andrew Wells. Devoted Friend, Trusted Teammate, Brave & Heroic Ally. He Died Helping Save The World. He Will Be Missed.’ Jonathan nods at the headstone signalling his approval.

 

After a couple more minutes they all make their way back inside. After arriving back in the main room Giles looked curious.

 

“I couldn’t help but notice that only one grave is out there. I’m guessing you buried Riley elsewhere?”

 

Hornet snorts, “Of course he did. Finn died because of his own stupidity, Andrew died being a hero. Andrew deserves to be buried here. Finn doesn’t.”

 

Giles nods, “I agree, only heroes should get buried in a place as magical as this dimension.”

 

Sirrus gets the matter at hand back on Stygian, “Hornet? What did you find out about the Buffy that defeated Stygian?”

 

He looks at the floor, “A lot. Stygian came to this multiverse, specifically that Buffy’s reality, to find a weapon to help against his enemies. Turns out it was being protected by that Buffy. She was only young, it was around the time Spike first arrived in Sunnydale. He messed her up, killed everyone, that Xander, Willow, Giles, Joyce, Angel, Cordelia, Oz & Jenny. Spike helped her stop him after he dusted Drusilla. They both worked together and defeated him by locking him up, Buffy & Spike being the only two left, grew close and fell in love. When the monks sent the key to her they couldn’t send it in the form of her sister, because people would ask questions, like why Stygian didn’t kill her too. So there Dawn’s their daughter. Glory wasn’t much of a problem there either, she turned into Ben in front of Buffy & Spike, with that Buffy being mated with Spike she remembered, and killed Ben.”

 

Everyone looked pale at that, “He killed everyone? Even mom?” Buffy asked with a tremor.

 

“Yeah, she offended him with her belief that all humans were good. So he decided to prove her wrong. The way he killed them though, it even made me shiver when I heard.”

 

“What did he do?” Sirrus asked dreading the answer.

 

“Where do I begin? He ripped Xander’s intestines out and choked Willow with them, he set Angel on fire and made sure Buffy could hear his screams, he carved a smile on Giles’s face and threw his body through her window while she was sleeping, he hung Cordelia’s body in the library completely skinned, he cut Jenny up and left her on Buffy’s porch, he put Oz through a wood chipper, and he cut Joyce’s head off and left it on her bed which she found after waking up.”

 

Everyone paled further and was sick to their stomachs at what they’d just heard.

 

“Oh My God!” Buffy exclaims, “That’s sick! I’ve never met anyone who would’ve done anything like that.”

 

“That’s the problem, that Buffy not believing he was evil made him step up his game. That Spike even felt sick at the stuff he did, Buffy went catatonic and Spike did the spell to go into her mind and pull her out. She clung to Spike like a lifeline after that, when they finally beat him they left Sunnydale together, the memories were too much.”

 

“And this psychopaths on his way here?” Cordelia asked incredulously.

 

“When Salazar & Solomon figure out how to bring him here yes.”

 

They all went silent as dread began to consume them. The alarm sounding brought their attention to the screen, they all gasped at what they saw, Kralik dragging a horribly disfigured man into the magic box, the man’s face and body were unrecognisable due to burns & scars. Kralik dumped the man in the shop then left.

 

“Who’s that?” Buffy asked horrified.

 

“Bedlam? Fetch him. It’s Xander.” Sirrus said grimly.

 

Everyone’s eyes widened at that and Bedlam nodded and teleports out the room. 10 minutes later Bedlam walks down the stairs and entered the main room.

 

“I’ve put him in his room. He’s not good.” He said with complete seriousness.

 

“What’s been done to him?” Sirrus asked prepared for the worst.

 

He sighs, “Practically everything. He’s had most of his skin damaged by fire & acid, he’s obviously been raped by a demon. According to Xander that was done because Salazar found out about his rape attempt on Buffy, with her being like Xander’s family Salazar took offence. The worst part is....I can’t fix him. Salazar knew I’d try and he’s somehow blocked my healing abilities in regards to Xander. He’s going to have to live like that for the rest of his life.”

 

Everyone paled more at his words, “Why did he even send him back? This feels like a trap.” Buffy asked quietly.

 

“According to Xander he sent him back so we could see the mess he’d made of him, which I believe. But knowing Salazar there’s more to it than that, so to be safe keep your eyes open ears out and don’t let your guard down.”

 

They all nodded, “What are we going to do? He knows Dawn’s the key, he’s trying to bring his dad here, he’s going to open the Hellmouth, Andrew’s dead, Kralik’s back and stronger than before, and he’s damaged Xander beyond recognition. We’re heading for the final battle soon aren’t we?” Anne asked terrified.

 

“Yeah, but with Salazar it won’t be just a battle....it’ll be a war.” Sirrus says matter-of-factly.

 

******

 

Downtown, Sunnydale, California

 

He stepped out of a portal with multiple demons and other Wolfram & Hart personnel from all over the globe with him.

 

“We’re here for revenge. The Senior Partners want The Serpent Family to pay. Let’s put an end to this.”

 

They all nodded and set off.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

They were all sitting thinking of what to do next when the alarm sounded, “Not again!” Buffy huffed.

 

But when they turn to the screen, Lindsey pales, “Nononono. It can’t be.”

 

Darla looked concerned, “Who is that Lindsey?”

 

“Marcus Hamilton. The Senior Partners most trusted. Salazar & Solomon may be extremely powerful, but so is he.”

 

“We may have a 3 way war on our hands.” Sirrus said as he watched the Wolfram & Hart conglomerate set up base in the abandoned city hall.

 

“If we’re lucky that’ll get Salazar & Solomon’s attention off of us.” Spike said hopefully.

 

“Hopefully it will do. He’ll avoid us mainly because The Senior Partners don’t want us on their backs.”

 

“That’s good then.” Buffy said with a sigh of relief.

 

“That doesn’t mean if he finds you out in Sunnydale you’ll be safe. He won’t attack the safehouse, but that’s not stopping him attacking you if he sees you out there.”

 

They all nod their understanding.

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

One of the minions ran in, “Masters! The Senior Partners sent someone for revenge. Him and the ones with him have set up in city hall.”

 

“Well it turns out The Senior Partners aren’t spineless after all. Looks like the slayers get a bit of breathing room. Until this wankers dealt with of course.” Salazar said amused.

 

“If they think some reject can stop us they have another thing coming.” Solomon said irritated.

 

“That’s the thing Masters. It’s Marcus Hamilton, The Senior Partners most trusted. Everyone in the demon worlds heard of him, if they aren’t living under a rock that is.”

 

Salazar shrugs, “So he’ll be a challenge, it makes no difference, he’ll die & we’ll win.”

 

Another minion comes in, “I have good news Masters.”

 

“That’s what I like to hear! what is it?” Salazar asked excited.

 

“Thanks to Master Solomon’s efforts in the boys mind. We’ve found out where Master Stygian is....and how to get him here.”

 

Salazar & Solomon smirked, “Good let’s begin.” Salazar finishes the sentence with a dark laugh.

Notes:

Andrew’s dead, Marcus Hamilton has arrived, a Buffy locked up Stygian and that resulted in Salazar’s mother dying, Jonathan wants to join D.U.S.T., Kralik’s back and stronger than before, Salazar knows who the key is, and Salazar & Solomon know where Stygian is.

What's been done to Xander? Has Salazar set a trap?

With the new threat in Sunnydale our heroes have time for themselves again. But how long?

Like all the other chapters, this is all done by me. Let me know what you think.

Chapter 13: Chapter 13 - Escalated Threats

Notes:

Our heroes have a breather and a wake of sorts, questions are asked, information revealed, and a warning from the future that could devastate all creation comes to light.

A confrontation takes place between Hamilton & Salazar in this chapter.

A part of this chapter switches between two scenes, that’s why some locations aren't marked.

Another enemy arrives, and with him come more threats.

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

It was 5pm and they were all sat in the main room when Hornet came in carrying multiple bottles of alcohol.

 

“There’s more in the kitchen, I thought we could have a little wake for Andrew, let Salazar, Solomon & Wolfram & Hart battle it out for a bit. You could even ask us some questions, seeing as there’s no innocents left in Sunnydale, we can have a breather.”

 

Sirrus shrugs, “Why not? Get any questions off your chest.”

 

Angel was the first, “Now I’m actually listening, how did the law for slayers not being able to date humans come about?”

 

“That was mainly me.” Hornet said raising his hand, “I’m the one who made it a law. At first it wasn’t illegal, just frowned upon & advised against. Some slayers listened, others didn’t. The problem came when some slayers knew the reasons and continued to date humans. To us and me especially it was like they were manipulating the humans they dated.”

 

“Manipulating in what way?” Giles asked curiously.

 

“Well think about it. They were more prone to date supernatural beings, because they could love them. We’re talking about slayers who knew they couldn’t love their human partners, who knew they couldn’t get pregnant, who knew they wouldn’t age. All that and they still dated humans, humans who bear in mind can love them and did. How would you feel if you were dating someone and after 10 years when you’re completely in love, she randomly dumps you because she fell in love with someone else? Not only that but it comes to light she never loved you to begin with? Then you get told by the woman who let you fall hopelessly in love with her that she can’t get pregnant? Or age? How’s that not manipulation? Especially when the slayers never disclosed the information to the person they’re dating to begin with. Slayers maybe Heavens Chosen One but that doesn’t mean they’re gods gift, manipulating people left right and center.”

 

They were all speechless at that for a bit, until Giles broke the silence, “Yes I have to agree, that way it does sound like manipulation.”

 

“We’re the government, just like human laws ours are in place for a reason. I don’t care that slayers bitch they want a normal life. They’re not normal, they have to accept that. Human law doesn’t give the rest of you a pass for being in denial. We had a slayer once tell us that she ‘didn’t like the law.’ To which I obviously responded ‘The laws aren’t there for you to like, their there for you to follow.’ I mean there’s certain laws nobody likes, but they exist for a reason. We put that law in place to stop slayers who didn’t know wasting their life, and to stop slayers who did know from manipulating people.”

 

Gunn nodded, “I can see why that laws in place, and I agree with it.”

 

Hornet snorts, “It gets worse. Do you want to know what those slayers fucked up reason was? The one that made the rest of D.U.S.T. agree to the law in the first place? They said word for word mind you ‘Well we keep them safe! So we can do what we please, they owe us.’ You heard correctly. That was some slayers response to manipulating someone they’re actively sleeping with. Slayers like that were the reason we started policing them in the first place. The fact they said that and still referred to themselves as good guys was mind-boggling. I mean some of the shit we know slayers have done evil won’t even do, so that has to tell you something. The level of ego behind that statement pissed me off ‘They owe us.’ Like humans are to blame for them being slayers in the first place, like humans are to blame for evil existing. The blame for both of those things goes to The Masters of Evil, because if it wasn’t for them demons & monsters wouldn’t exist and slayers would never have been needed.”

 

Buffy looked shocked, “Other slayers actually said that?”

 

He raises an eyebrow, “You’re not exactly squeaky clean neither.”

 

She looks offended, “I never manipulated anyone!”

 

“You didn’t? You sure?” He asks rhetorically, “Let’s inform you shall we? One, You pretended to hate Spike when you actually loved him. Two, you dated Riley even though you weren’t interested & didn’t actually want to. Three, you’ve dated people in the past without disclosing you’re a slayer, therefore putting their lives in danger. Four, you made people believe you’re normal when you’re not. Five, you let everyone else believe you didn’t trust Spike & hated him when that was not the case. Six, you held back Angel’s return and kept it secret, therefore withholding vital and possible life threatening information. Seven, you knew Spike could love but let everyone else believe he couldn’t. Eight, you were living in your mums house without disclosing you’re the slayer therefore putting her life in danger. Nine, you let everyone believe you wanted normal when you’d be bored if you had it. Ten, you sometimes pretend to be a damsel in distress when fighting a vampire or demon, that’s manipulation no matter how you word it. There’s probably others I missed, but you get the point.”

 

Buffy & Anne looked at him wide eyed, “I didn’t know. You’re right they’re manipulating things I’ve done in the past.” Buffy said ashamed.

 

“You’ve broken many laws, technically you’re still breaking some.”

 

“What? How?” She asked scared.

 

“We’ve been here with you a couple of days now. What’s one thing we haven’t done that multiple of you are guilty of?”

 

Most of the occupants looked confused, but Lawson had a theory, “You didn’t take anyone in to a fight who can’t defend themselves.”

 

“Spot on. When Buffy took people like Xander into battle its actually illegal, because he was never taught how to fight, that law states ‘Any individual partaking or assisting in monster hunting has to be properly trained by the head hunter, or those responsible for training.’ Meaning that Xander legally had to be trained by Buffy or Giles before going out into the field, and that’s obviously not happened. I mean that’s the exact reason she doesn’t take Dawn or Joyce into battle. The hypocrisy in that’s actually painful.”

 

“But what about monster hunters? Some of them have no training when they start.” Buffy asked confused.

 

Sirrus interrupts, “The difference there is monster hunters learn as they go. They get better, more skilful, more deadly. Xander however has been working alongside you for 5 years, and he hasn’t improved at all. He still knows nothing about the supernatural, he still can’t fight properly, he still doesn’t know how to properly use a sword. Stuff Salazar & Solomon’s minions know. Take Gunn for example, he’s a monster hunter and he’s knowledgeable, skilful, and as you saw yesterday he stood toe to toe with Salazar’s minions and walked away.”

 

“Yeah come to think of it you’re right. Xander hasn’t improved in fighting since I first met him.”

 

“That’s because he was expecting you to always protect him.” Bedlam said as he poured himself a scotch, “The problem is if he wanted protection he wouldn’t be on the sodding front line.”

 

Giles looks thoughtful, “I never really considered training Xander. For the life of me I don’t know why, maybe he wouldn’t be as damaged as he is if I did.” Giles said sadly.

 

“No mate don’t think like that.” Hornet said as he poured him a scotch and passed it him, “I agree he should have been trained, but I can’t allow you to live in the false mind-set that the councils teachings would have done fuck all against The Serpent Family. You have to remember their bloodline reaches back way before The Council or The Shadowmen even existed.”

 

Giles nods, “Yes, I remember. Thank you, I’m rather glad I met you all.” He raises his glass in a salute then takes a drink.

 

Hornet copies his actions with his own glass, “Not a problem mate.”

 

Doyle raises his hand, “I have a question. Why’s Salazar’s mam called Elizabeth? The rest of them start with S.”

 

Arkillius chuckles, “That’s because she was only a Serpent by marriage. But not all the Serpent Family members names begin with S, quite a few do but there’s Bartholomew Serpent, Archibald Serpent, Crescent Serpent, Lazarus Serpent, Reginald Serpent, Esmerelda Serpent & Argent Serpent just to name a few, and they’re still alive.”

 

Everyone was looking at him wide eyed, “What about ones starting with S?” Anne asked incredulously.

 

“Well the ones that are still alive are Solomon Serpent, Stygian Serpent, Salazar Serpent, Siegfried Serpent, Seraphina Serpent, Silvia Serpent, Serena Serpent, Samuel Serpent, Sebastian Serpent & Salem Serpent if I kept going we’d be here all day.”

 

Everyone was speechless by that point and decided to pour themselves a drink. Which most of them spat out at Arkillius’s next words.

 

“But then you have Salazar’s kids.”

 

“WHAT?” Bellowed around the room from everyone except D.U.S.T. & April.

 

“What? The Serpent Family breed like sodding rabbits.” The word ‘rabbits’ made Anya recoil in fear.

 

“Oh My God! Why would you say that! Those furry little monsters are evil!”

 

Arkillius looked at her confused at first, but then he remembered, “Oh that’s right. You’re scared of them. Sorry I completely forgot.”

 

“Do you forget what everyone’s scared of?” She asked annoyed.

 

He shakes his head, “No. Spike’s scared of bears, Buffy’s scared of being abandoned, Bedlam’s scared of spiders, Angel’s scared of women and prefers children.” That caused almost everyone to begin laughing, but he ignored it and carried on, “Hornet’s usually scared of fuck all, and Sirrus is scared of Verrocarth.”

 

“How’d you know I’m scared of being abandoned?” Buffy asked as she clung to Spike.

 

“Met other versions of you, and it’s pretty obvious. That’s the reason you try to keep everyone else happy, so they don’t leave you.”

 

She nods with tears in her eyes and Spike hugs her to him.

 

Arkillius decides to reassure her, “One thing I want you to remember, is if they’re your real friends they won’t abandon you for doing something they don’t agree with, or even understand. Your a slayer, they’re not, they won’t ever understand what it feels like to be one. So don’t close parts of yourself off to make everyone else happy. Real friends would never make or even expect someone to do such a thing. The reason we police slayers is because we understand them, The Watchers Council and even your friends don’t really understand. They try, but until they accept what you are themselves, they never truly can. You’re not a normal girl, you’re never going to be. So it doesn’t matter what dreams and hopes your friends & family had for you, they’re never going to happen, and that’s nothing to be upset about. You get to be apart of this huge world that spreads further than you can possibly imagine. People are alive because of you, that’s amazing in itself, you’re extraordinary, Spike saw that, we know you can be, and soon so will everyone else.” At the end of his speech everyone was looking at him amazed. Buffy, Anne & even Faith were in tears.

 

“I don’t think anyone’s ever worded it like that before. Thank you.” Buffy said with a teary smile.

 

“I was only telling the truth. Nothing to thank me for, but you’re welcome.”

 

They all got back to drinking, then Ethan asked a question, “Why didn’t you implant us all with the fighting knowledge before?” He asked curiously.

 

Bedlam poured himself another glass, “Because it’s not something we do willy-nilly there has to be a reason. You have to understand that knowledge is literally D.U.S.T.’s fighting styles, techniques, everything. Until Salazar & Solomon started implanting their knowledge on their minions there wasn’t a reason, but now they’ve started doing just that, we decided to do the same.”

 

He nods, “That makes sense.”

 

******

 

City Hall, Sunnydale, California

 

Marcus was sitting at the mayor’s desk with his feet up. When one of the Wolfram & Hart special ops team walked in.

 

“Sir, The Serpent Family are the ones responsible for the eclipse, and wiping out the entire population of Los Angeles. According to our scouts they’re preparing another ritual.”

 

“We’ll see what the ritual is when it happens. Anything else to report?”

 

“Yes, apparently to what our scouts have reported they have multiple civilians locked up in cells, we’re not sure what they plan on doing with them but we believe it’ll be soon.”

 

“Have they got anything to do with the ritual?”

 

He shakes his head, “No sir, they’re for another purpose entirely. The scouts also reported The Serpent Family have well over a thousand minions.”

 

“Their numbers don’t matter. We have enough to deal with them.”

 

“Very good sir.” He nods and leaves the room.

 

Marcus looked thoughtful, ‘What are you planning Salazar?’

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

“They can’t seriously be that stupid? They need to teach their scouts stealth that’s for sure.” Salazar said amused.

 

“I know it was plainly obvious they were spying on us. Not that it matters much, once Stygian gets here it all ends.” Solomon responds matter-of-factly.

 

Kralik walks into the room, “They’re definitely set up in city hall Masters. More of them just turned up with some powerful looking weapons.”

 

“It’ll soon be time to fight them then, make sure our boys are ready.” Salazar responds while looking at a parchment.

 

“Right away Masters.” He said and left the room.

 

Another minion spoke up, “Why aren’t we doing the ritual now Masters?”

 

Salazar turns to acknowledge him, “Believe you me. I want my father here as soon as possible, but certain rituals have certain criteria’s to meet, we have to wait for the right time. Luckily this one’s at 9pm not midnight, certain dimensions line up making it the perfect time to do the ritual.”

 

He nods his understanding.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

They were all still drinking and enjoying themselves, Gunn had a question.

 

“I’m just curious. Where does Bedlam’s fear of spiders come from?”

 

Bedlam got a far away look on his face, “You remember when I told you about the witch that killed my parents?” He addressed Anne.

 

“Yeah you told me you couldn’t find her.”

 

“That’s right we couldn’t. I told you they were murdered, but I never told you how. For this story to make sense you need a bit of backstory. When me and my siblings were 3 we were meant to go to stay at Sirrus’s, he’s our godfather you see. Anyway, I did something wrong and wasn’t allowed to go, so my brother & sister went and I had to stay home. I was in my room when this huge spider, and I mean huge it was easily the size of the doorway. Well I saw it run past my bedroom door, so I went to investigate. When I got down stairs there was portals opening all over the house with other huge spiders falling out of them. I ran to get my mum & dad, only when I got in the living room they were both dead with spiders eating them. They then came after me, I ran back upstairs and into my bedroom, with that I hid. Little did I know I sent a mental distress signal to Sirrus who burst into the house with other D.U.S.T. members, they cleaned up the spiders and Sirrus found me under my bed sobbing. It later turned out the witch was the one who opened the portals and sent the spiders to kill us. Ever since then I freeze up when a spiders near me.”

 

Everyone was speechless at that for a moment, “Oh My God! No wonder you’re scared of spiders.” Dawn said when she got her voice back.

 

Giles nods, “That must have been bloody terrifying. I’m sorry for your loss.” Giles said sympathetically.

 

“It was and thank you.”

 

Jonathan looked sad, “I’m sorry that happened to you.” Everyone else followed his lead with their own sorry.

 

“Thank you. All of you.”

 

Anne looked thoughtful, “There’s one thing I don’t understand. If you and your siblings were the first Wicharei what were your parents?”

 

“Just monster hunters. How we became Wicharei is something that has to do with Sirrus. You see even though souls don’t really mean anything, an Unsintebus’s soul is extremely powerful and can be used for some dangerous things. So their souls have a defence mechanism of sorts, a vampire known as Karvanax tried ripping Sirrus’s soul out to use it in a ritual. The defence mechanism kicked in and it sent a blast wave out in every direction for a mile. Most evil beings in the area were disintegrated, but mum was nearby and pregnant with us when it happened. The blast wave hit her as well. An Unsintebus’s soul defence mechanism also has a chance at creating heroes too, and that’s exactly what it did. It turned me and my siblings into The First Wicharei.”

 

“Did this blast also kill Karvanax?” Giles asked fascinated as he wrote it all down.

 

“No he was to powerful. It badly burned him though and he retreated.” Sirrus informs them.

 

“Who is this Karvanax?” Wesley asked intrigued.

 

“One of the first vampires. Varron’s second in command.”

 

“You mean ‘Varron The First Vampire in all creation’ you told us about?”

 

“Yeah, he’s also the emperor of The Varrion Empire.”

 

“An entire empire of vampires?” Giles asked in disbelief.

 

“Yeah they’ve conquered five earth’s from their multiverse. We would usually get involved but the wanker was smart. He conquered them in a legal way.”

 

“How on earth could he do that?”

 

“Because he annoyed them enough so they attacked his soldiers. With the others attacking first, he was well within his right to retaliate. Therefore never actually breaking D.U.S.T. law. What makes his hold on these earth’s legitimate is the humans living there like him ruling.”

 

“So he declared war on other earth’s and that was legal? And how can the people like living under vampires?” Buffy asked incredulously.

 

Hornet chuckles, “Your problem is you’ve only met this multiverse’s species of vampire. This one has demon DNA mixed in, Varron’s species doesn’t, his species are actually very respected & feared by other empires, it doesn’t matter what species or race. But to answer your questions, yes it was legal to declare war on another earth for attacking his soldiers. Like it’s legal for your government to declare war on other countries, just because they’re vampires doesn’t mean they aren’t civilized. The only thing that would make it illegal is if innocents were killed on purpose, which they wasn’t. And the people like living under vampires because they’re safe, other creatures aren’t constantly attacking them now and Varron’s made it illegal to drink straight from his people, that also means the humans. The people also love him being in control because he’s cut taxes and rent in half, as long as they donate blood once a month. He’s also cured all their diseases. So him ruling those earth’s are actually keeping people alive.”

 

“Wow. I never thought I’d hear something like that, that’s actually amazing.” Buffy responds shocked.

 

******

 

City Hall, Sunnydale, California

 

One of the soldiers came into the office, “Sir, Salazar’s minions have been gathering weapons. We believe they’re going to strike soon.”

 

Marcus was stood with his arms crossed looking out the window, “Prepare the others. This is war.”

 

“Yes sir.” He salutes then exits the office.

 

“You want war Salazar? I’ll give it to you.” He says to the empty room.

 

*******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

“Everyone get ready. This is war.” Salazar said as he enters the main room where all the minions are gathered with weapons. “Hanson? Get the tanks ready.”

 

“Yes Master Salazar.” He turned and left the room.

 

“We’re waiting for them to make the first move. Then we strike.”

 

The room erupted with cheers from his minions.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

Hornet came back downstairs from talking to Xander, “He won’t come down. He doesn’t want anyone seeing him like that. I left him a bottle and a glass, he definitely needs it. But we need to keep an eye on him, he’s depressed it’s pretty obvious.”

 

Sirrus nods, “We will. But we can’t keep eyes on him 24/7. We have to hope he pulls through. The only problem is, I highly doubt he will.”

 

Arkillius nods, “Salazar’s well known for mentally damaging people beyond recovery.”

 

“What do you think he’s done to Xander?” Willow asked worried.

 

“I’m under no delusion that Salazar’s finished with him, you have to remember that Salazar is extremely sadistic & evil. Whatever the most evil thing you can imagine Is, double that by ten then you’ll get to how evil Salazar really is.”

 

“You said he has children? How’s someone like him managed to find a girlfriend?” Cordelia asked incredulously.

 

“He can be quite charming, the amount of women he’s pulled is outstanding. He’s not misogynistic or anything like that, The Serpent Family has females in it. He knows better than anyone that women are tough, Seraphina Serpent’s his sister after all. But yes he has kids, 3 of them. His two sons Sullivan Serpent & Salvador Serpent, then his daughter Samira Serpent.”

 

“I’m actually amazed he’s managed to have kids. With how psychotic he is.”

 

“That’s The Serpent Family for you, they originally did the evilest things possible so no one would question that they were evil. With having demons & all manner of creatures as enemies since the dawn of humanity, they had to make sure no one would mess with them. Then after years of doing the things they did, it basically became second nature to them, so they continued.”

 

Giles began cleaning his glasses, “Are you telling me they weren’t always as evil as they are?”

 

“They were evil even back then so don’t forget that. But yes, after years of constant attacks from their enemies they stepped up the evil to colossal proportions. Meaning if it wasn’t for their enemies....The Serpent Family wouldn’t be nearly as dangerous as they are now.”

 

“Great. Their enemies made them ten times worse.” Buffy said irritated.

 

Sirrus shrugs, “It’s the way it works. Most evil beings have a reason for being evil. Be it a loved one being killed or constantly being walked all over but they have a reason. Everything always escalates, for example some terrorists were just protesters who’s problems weren’t listened to. That’s not an excuse for their actions believe me, but most evil acts don’t just drop out of the sky. There are evil beings out there who are evil just for the sake of being evil, but they’re few and far between."

 

“I never actually thought of it like that.” Buffy said thoughtfully.

 

“How are protesters classed as terrorists?” Willow asked confused.

 

Hornet snorts, “Not all of them are, but you stand in the middle of a sodding road waving a sign about and cause a crash you’re technically a terrorist. Because you’re causing terror in the populous. Salazar’s a terrorist as well, Because he causes terror. You can protest and not be a dick about it. You causing terror isn’t the way to get the human governments to listen, if anything that’ll make them avoid your cause all together. That is if the government is a decent one and listens in the first place."

 

She looks thoughtful, “Yeah, you’re right. I never thought about it like that either.”

 

He shrugs, “It’s one of those things you don’t really notice until it’s pointed out to you.”

 

Giles poured himself another scotch, “What damage are we looking at? When the battle between Marcus Hamilton & Salazar begins.”

 

Sirrus downs the rest of his scotch then pours another, “The main reason we’re not going out there is because the damage will be massive. Don’t forget Salazar’s got military weapons & vehicles he hasn’t used yet.”

 

“I can guarantee I’m not going out there, especially if they have tanks.” Gunn said firmly.

 

“We wouldn’t put you in that situation, if we’re lucky Wolfram & Hart will destroy most of Salazar’s vehicles. That way when the inevitable war happens between us he won’t have them.”

 

Everyone was in agreement with that.

 

******

 

City Hall, Sunnydale, California

 

Marcus comes out of the office, “Let’s move. Once this is over I can get out of this despicable town.”

 

The soldiers & demons gathered their weapons and began to follow him.

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

One of the minions run in, “Masters! The Wolfram & Hart soldiers are on the move.”

 

“Good. Once they’re out the way we can finally begin the ritual. Boys let’s move out.” Salazar commanded.

 

He & Solomon exit the Stronghold with over 500 minions following them.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

They were all still drinking and chatting when the alarm sounded, they all turned to the screen.

 

“It’s about to start.” Sirrus said serious.

 

******

 

Downtown, Sunnydale, California

 

Salazar and his minions stopped in the middle of the street, while Marcus and his soldiers stopped about 100 yards away.

 

“Salazar! The Senior Partners want revenge for your actions at our offices!”

 

“Is that so?! Sorry to inform you mate! But I don’t happen to give a fuck!”

 

“Well, that’s where we have a problem!” Some Wolfram & Hart helicopters appear over head, “But not a problem I’m not willing to dispose of!”

 

“I was about to say the same!” Multiple tanks came rolling down the street, and apaches began to hover over head. “Let’s see what you’ve got!”

 

“Gladly!”

 

The tanks and apaches open fire as two waves of combatants clashed, other soldiers began shooting each other body after body was dropping.

 

Salazar & Solomon were both fighting Marcus, he was definitely stronger than both of them anticipated, but that just added more to the challenge.

 

One of Salazar’s helicopters collided with a Wolfram & Hart one, this made them both explode and crash down to the ground in a fiery wreckage. One of Salazar’s tanks takes out another Wolfram & Hart helicopter, which also landed in a fiery wreckage.

 

******

 

“This is insane! I’m glad I’m not out there.” Buffy said with her eyes fixed on the screen while slowly drinking her scotch, which Spike fetched some coke to mix with it.

 

“Salazar’s losing some soldiers & vehicles, but it’s his tanks that are the issue.” Giles commented as he watched along.

 

“I agree, hopefully Wolfram & Hart will destroy them.” Arkillius said while pouring himself another scotch.

 

******

 

Salazar turned to smoke and surrounded Marcus while Solomon threw multiple punches. The hits connected and Marcus was knocked back, Salazar turned back to normal and spin kicked him.

 

Marcus stumbled then righted himself, “Is that the best you’ve got? All you’ve managed to do is get my suit dirty. Which you’ll pay for.”

 

“Don’t worry. We’re just getting started.” Solomon said irritated.

 

“Well then, let’s do this.” Marcus said then he attacked them.

 

The fight was back on, Salazar punched Marcus in the nose, he responded by backhanding him. Solomon kicked him in the leg making him fall to one knee, he got back up and headbutted him. Salazar jumps and elbow drops him, he elbows Salazar back, Solomon jumps up does multiple knee strikes to his chest then lands again. Marcus in his anger grabs Solomon and breaks his neck killing Ben, green smoke exits Ben’s body and entered one of the Wolfram & Hart special ops team.

 

Solomon turns in his new meat suit to face Marcus, “Did you really think it would be that easy?” He said with a smirk.

 

“No. It being easy isn’t any fun. I like a challenge.”

 

******

 

“Ben’s dead!” Kate exclaims, “Marcus isn’t going to win if Solomon can just jump to a new body every time the last ones killed.”

 

Buffy’s looking at the screen wide eyed, “How can we beat Solomon if he can do that?”

 

“Solomon’s locked wherever Salazar is, meaning when we remove Salazar from this multiverse Solomon will automatically go with him.” Bedlam informs them.

 

“How’s that work?” Spike asked curiously.

 

“Salazar is Solomon’s only relative in this multiverse. He requires a bloodline bond to stay in this multiverse, if Salazar wasn’t here Solomon would get dragged to his nearest blood relative, and that’s Stygian. If Stygian wasn’t imprisoned in this multiverse Solomon would have been dragged back to his own.”

 

“Of course, Bloodline bond possession!” Giles exclaims, “It’s been heard of before, that’s how some ghosts can travel beyond the location they died. It doesn’t mean he can only possess people from his bloodline. It means his bloodline has to be in the location for it to happen to begin with.” He explains as some of those gathered looked at him in confusion. “I’m also assuming that Solomon’s stronger while possessing someone because Salazar’s so close?” He asked Bedlam curiously.

 

“In a way yes. Solomon’s still powerful on his own, but Salazar being close makes Solomon stronger than he normally would be, while possessing people that is.”

 

“Stopping Salazar will automatically stop Solomon? That’s good to know.” Anne said with a sigh of relief.

 

******

 

Bodies on both sides were still dropping, Wolfram & Hart brought out their own rocket launchers and began opening fire on the tanks.

 

Salazar fires a ball of electricity at Marcus, the force knocked him flying back.

 

“You’re really starting to get annoying.” Salazar said as he slowly approached him, “I have a slayer to deal with, a key to collect, a father to bring here, and you to annihilate. We’ll see which comes first won’t we?”

 

******

 

“So they’ve found Stygian.” Sirrus said grimly.

 

“I don’t understand. Isn’t that what the ritual was for? The one that sacrificed all of L.A.?” Fred asked confused.

 

“Yes, but that would’ve only showed them the area he’s trapped. They would have still had to check the dimensions in that specific area for his life force.”

 

“Which it appears they’ve done so.” Giles said with a sigh.

 

“Why isn’t Stygian already here?” Darla asked curiously.

 

“Because they have to wait until a certain time. Certain dimensions, universes & realities line up at a specific time. Depending on the time he does the ritual we can tell in what area he was trapped.”

 

******

 

Marcus stands up and begins fighting again, He managed to kill Solomon’s second host making him jump to someone else.

 

“I can do this all day.” He said with a smirk.

 

“Then I’ll just keep killing all your meat suits until no ones left.” Marcus said annoyed.

 

A rocket flies over their heads and hits one of Salazar’s tanks making it explode. Bullets fly past them as they circle each other.

 

Marcus pulls out a gun of his own and headshots Salazar as he was approaching, he falls to the ground.

 

Marcus turned to Solomon again, “Your grandson’s dead. Now it’s your turn.” After he finishes his sentence he sees Solomon smirking at him, which of course confuses him. “I’ve just killed your grandson and you’re smirking?” He asked with a raised eyebrow.

 

Solomon’s smirk widens, “That’s just it. You haven’t killed him. No one knows how to.”

 

Marcus spins around to look at Salazar’s body, and just in time as Salazar’s eyes snapped open and green electricity started coming off of him. He levitates until he’s stood up again, then looks at Marcus with pure black eyes as the bullet seems to be being pushed out of his head, after the bullet falls to the floor the hole heals itself like it was never there.

 

“You’re The Senior Partners best? What a disappointment.” His voice comes out deeper than usual.

 

“I’m just getting started. I wasn’t aware you couldn’t be killed.”

 

He shrugs, “I was just as surprised when I first found out.” He Smirks, “It certainly has its uses though.” He holds out his hand to Marcus making lightning shoot out and hit him.

 

******

 

“So Salazar didn’t make himself imperishable, Hmm. This definitely leans to the fact something else is keeping him alive.” Giles said thoughtfully.

 

“Yes I agree. The problem is what?” Wesley asked curiously.

 

“We don’t know. It’s obviously something D.U.S.T. will investigate after this problem with Salazar’s dealt with.” Sirrus informs them.

 

“So we’re just ignoring the fact he got shot in the head then just shrugged it off?” Anne asked incredulously.

 

Bedlam shrugs, “The shit we’ve seen him survive is more impressive than that. Anyway everyone seen Glory break his neck when he fought her.” He looks thoughtful, “Only I completely forgot you weren’t actually there for that. I went into Finn’s mind after it happened.”

 

“No I wasn’t there for that. I knew he was unkillable, but I don’t really think that hit home until just now.”

 

He nods, “I can definitely understand. When I first found out he couldn’t die I was terrified. But eventually it got less scary and more irritating, Salazar upped his dickhead meter when he realised he couldn’t die.”

 

******

 

Marcus took the bolt of lightning and was still standing.

 

Salazar raised an eyebrow, “You’re definitely tougher than I thought you would be. It makes no difference though, The Serpent Family won’t fail to the likes of you.”

 

“I’m going to end your ‘Family’ just like I am you.” He responds.

 

“Billions have tried, and Billions have failed. You’re going to be no different.”

 

Marcus looks around at the carnage, bodies as far as the eye can see, destroyed tanks & helicopters. He turns away, but then addresses them after with his back to them.

 

“I’ll be back. So don’t think you’ve won.” He said as he walked away.

 

Salazar & Solomon looked after him in disbelief, “He just walked away. What a wanker.” Salazar said shocked.

 

Solomon looks around, “I think I can see why.”

 

Salazar turns to look as well, “Well bollocks, that’s all our tanks and apaches gone.” He walks over to a pile of bodies, where he finds Cactus dead. “Those bastards killed Cactus! You!” He points to another demon, “Bring his body back, we’re burying him.”

 

The demon nods and does just that, Solomon walked over beside Salazar, “We left with well over 500 minions, and we’re returning with 70 at most. Wolfram & Hart lost a lot as well, but this left a dint in our forces Salazar.”

 

He sighs, “I know. Not that it’ll matter soon anyway, once dad’s here....we open The Hellmouth.”

 

Solomon nods and they start heading back to the safehouse with the surviving minions in tow.

 

******

 

“Why did Marcus just walk away?” Buffy asked confused.

 

“Because he saw that most of his soldiers had been killed.” Lindsey informed them, “He’ll get more and try again. Hamilton isn’t someone to give up easily.”

 

“Well at least Salazar’s tanks & helicopters have been destroyed.” William said relieved.

 

“Yeah that definitely works out in our favour.” Sirrus responds as he poured himself a drink.

 

“We must prepare for Stygian’s arrival.” Giles said while cleaning his glasses, “Mr Hamilton might be strong in his own right, but I doubt he can handle all 3 of them together.”

 

“I’m not looking forward to facing Stygian.” Buffy said in a small voice, “He killed everybody in that other Buffy’s reality.” She cuddles up to Spike’s side. “I can’t lose Spike! I’ll die without him!” She exclaims panicked.

 

Spike pulls her into his lap and holds her, “It’s OK kitten, I’m not going anywhere.”

 

“You better not mister. I love you too much.”

 

He smiles at her, “I love you too baby.”

 

She lays her head on his shoulder with a happy sigh.

 

Faith walks over to Anne, “You mind if I talk to you for a sec? I would ask Buffy but I think she’s drank too much.”

 

Anne shrugs, “Sure what’s the problem?”

 

“Follow me we’ll talk out here.” She leaves the room with Anne following her.

 

They go to the kitchen for privacy, “So what’s up?” Anne asked concerned.

 

“Nothing bad, it’s just...I think I might love Lawson. But I’ve never been in love before....I was kinda hoping you can tell me what it feels like?” She asked hopeful.

 

“Oh wow. Okay, well for starters you enjoy their presence around you. You’re constantly thinking about them, you’re happy to see them, you’re heart speeds up when they’re near you, and you feel like you can’t live without them or ever be happy with anyone else. That’s how it feels for me anyway, William’s my everything. It sometimes feels different for other people, they just make you happy. Which William could have done a long time ago If I didn’t let what everyone else thought make me scared to be with him.”

 

She nods, “Yeah to all that. So I guess I’m in love with him...but how do I tell him? What If he doesn’t feel the same?” She asked the questions panicked.

 

“Hey believe me that’s why I was scared of confessing to begin with. But you have nothing to worry about, with how much he was panicking when you were in danger from Kakistos, he obviously loves you too. He demanded we send him in to help you, you know?”

 

She shake her head, “No I didn’t know that. But I’m glad you’ve told me. Guess It’s time I tell Lawson, maybe some booze will help.” She finishes with a laugh.

 

Anne laughed herself, “Yeah it probably will. Come on let’s get back in there, we don’t want to miss anything.”

 

She nods and they both head back to the main room.

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

It was 7pm by the time they returned.

 

“We have 2 hours. Make sure everything’s ready, and for god sake keep an eye out, this is one ritual I won’t have being interrupted.” Salazar commanded as he enters the room.

 

The minions nod and rush to do as he asked.

 

Solomon strolls in behind him, “Does this new body make me look fat?”

 

Salazar looks at him amused, “No, but you can definitely tell he was military. Why do you ask?”

 

“Because with how much this cunts running his mouth he must be able to shovel the food in.” He huffs, then starts talking to himself, “Yes! I know! You’ve told me multiple times how I’m going to regret possessing you!” He pauses as if listening, “I already fucking hate you! I’m definitely going to enjoy breaking you!”

 

Salazar’s trying not to laugh, “Why are you talking to him out loud? You usually mentally chat with your hosts.” He asked amused.

 

“Because he’s running his mouth so much I can’t get a word in edgeways mentally!” He listens again, “What do I mean by that? That you have a fat fucking mouth that’s what!” He sighs, “You do realise even if I possess someone else I’m killing you don’t you?” He listened again, “Because you’re pissing me off!” He sits in a chair, “One minute Salazar I’ll be right back.” He then falls unconscious.

 

Salazar sits down waiting extremely amused.

 

******

 

Random Soldiers Mind

 

Solomon lands in the lobby of Wolfram & Hart, “Where are you? you little wanker!”

 

The soldier appears, “I’m here, and the names Daniel thank you very much.”

 

“I don’t give a fuck! You could be the sodding tooth fairy for all I care!” He approaches him, “I’m telling you now boy, if you don’t stay silent I’ll kick your teeth in and lock you up.”

 

“I want my body back! I’ll keep talking until I get it.”

 

Solomon raises an eyebrow, “Is that so?”

 

“Yes it is so!”

 

He sighs, “Very well.” He proceeds to beat Daniel within an inch of his life, then starts dragging him down the Wolfram & Hart hallways.

 

“I’m sure ego driven arseholes like you’re bosses have somewhere to lock up riff-raff like you.” He turns when Daniel doesn’t speak, only to discover he’s broken his jaw. “Not chatting shit anymore are you boy?” He gets a mock innocent look on his face, “Oops! I’m so sorry! I completely forgot you can’t chat shit anymore.”

 

Daniel's response was muffled, Solomon comes to a stop near a vault.

 

“I’m sure this place will hold you.” He opens the vault and drags Daniel inside. “Not to worry, you can’t starve to death. Unfortunately.” He then seals the vault.

 

******

 

Solomon jolts back to himself, “That’s took care of him.”

 

Salazar sat drinking a whisky, “What did you do granddad?” He then pointed to another whisky next to Solomon, who grabs it.

 

He takes a swig, “Nothing much. Just kicked the fuck out of him...and locked him in a vault. His mind had us in the Wolfram & Hart lobby.” He rolls his eyes, “That place gets worse the more you see. I’m glad we destroyed the place.”

 

“Me too.” He raises his glass, “Cheers.”

 

Solomon mirrors his actions, “Cheers.”

 

******

 

City Hall, Sunnydale, California

 

Marcus was sat in the office when one of the soldiers entered.

 

“Sir? What are we supposed to do about The Serpent Family?”

 

“We’ll deal. I wasn’t aware before that Salazar can’t be killed. I’ll just find a work around.”

 

“Understood sir. What about Daniel?”

 

“Who’s Daniel?”

 

“The soldier Solomon’s possessing sir.”

 

He raises an eyebrow, “Nothing. He knew the risks of this mission.”

 

“Understood. I’ll inform his family he was killed in action.”

 

“Good. I have to contact The Senior Partners, they have to know about Salazar’s setback. They aren’t going to be pleased.”

 

“Very well sir.” He nods and leaves the room.

 

Marcus stands and opens a portal in front of him, he sighs then steps through.

 

******

 

The Senior Partners Dimension

 

“We are not best pleased Marcus.” Hart’s voice came out strong.

 

“I know Masters. I wasn’t aware of Salazar being unkillable.”

 

“Well find a way around it. We will not be shown up by humans. It doesn’t matter how legendary they are.” Ram commands.

 

“Understood Masters, I’ll get right on it.”

 

“See that you do.” The Wolf said with authority.

 

He nods and leaves the dimension.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

They’re all still chatting away when Anne asks Bedlam a question.

 

“Bedlam? You mentioned in Riley’s head that they’re was a Buffy that disinvited Spike from her house after he confessed his love. Why did she do that?” this question intrigued everyone else and they turned to listen to his response.

 

“We’ve only been to one reality where that happened, it wasn’t the one The Powers showed me but still it happened. Glory wasn’t in this reality, we aren’t sure why but she never came to Sunnydale. Rumour has it Ben died in a crash also killing Glory, but it was never confirmed. Anyway Spike confesses his feelings and she disinvites him. We turn up literally a day later over something completely unrelated, she comes in the magic box and Hornet’s talking to that Spike. She didn’t like the fact he was there and voiced her dislike of the fact, only that’s what she wanted her friends to think. We saw through her play straight away, Hornet tells her he’s there to help us. She then crosses her arms and says ‘Oh and who are you? You don’t have the right to invite him here.’ To which Hornet responds ‘I think you’ll find we’re the supernatural government, so we have the right to come into a magic shop and invite whoever the hell we want.’ She looks shocked at that.”

 

Everyone was listening intently including Buffy who’s sobered up some. Bedlam continues on.

 

“That Anya explained everything to her and Buffy looked scared at the fact we could actually arrest her. With that we basically inform her about everything we have you, vampires aren’t soulless, human souls were created by The Masters of Evil to stop emotions, the fact Angel couldn’t love her, the fact she’s Spike’s soulmate, the fact Dawn was created from both of them, the prophecised child, slayers can’t date humans and the reasons for it, we told her everything. She proceeds to start sobbing and apologising to Spike for what she did, she then tells us the reason and Hornet decides to inform her that if she disinvited Spike and she wasn’t in danger from him it’s technically a hate crime. Anyway she then tells us the reason she did it in the first place, she was scared because all her relationships fail, and she did actually want him herself but didn’t want it to fail. We proceeded to tell her the main reason her relationships failed in the first place is because she’s supposed to be with Spike, and that her slayer doesn’t want anyone else.”

 

Everyone was still paying attention, Bedlam continues on.

 

“She actually looked like a weight had been lifted off her shoulders at that, well that Giles, Xander, Willow & eventually Angel voiced their dislike about Buffy being with Spike. Until I informed them that if they tried stopping them being together because of their species its illegal and they could be arrested. Especially when I explained the prophecy about The First, then told them that stopping them being together could get everyone killed and is also something we won’t allow. Anyway, it came out she loved Spike but didn’t want her friends disapproval of her dating another vampire.”

 

“That’s one of the reasons I didn’t tell Spike the truth.” Buffy said sadly.

 

“The funny thing was her reaction to what Hornet said next. Why don’t you repeat it for her Hornet?” He said amused.

 

He shrugs, “You don’t like people telling you what to do but you bend over backwards to do what your friends want, and can you honestly tell me that if Angel never told you to date humans you would have looked at Riley twice? You hate him controlling your life but the reason he even thinks he can is because you do exactly as everyone tells you.”

 

Buffy & Anne’s eyes widened, “Oh My God! You’re completely right!”

 

Bedlam chuckles, “That was exactly how the other Buffy responded.”

 

“I literally can’t believe I didn’t notice.” Anne said bewildered.

 

“Yeah well, you only took a psychology course, we finished ours.” Hornet said matter-of-factly.

 

“You took psychology? Why?” Buffy asked confused.

 

“For our job obviously. We have to take multiple courses, to be able to tell if someone’s lying and stuff like that.”

 

“Is that why you could tell the other Buffy was lying? When she said she didn’t want Spike there?”

 

“Yeah that, and we could also tell you loved him before you confessed it. The small glances you kept throwing his way were pretty obvious.”

 

“Really? I can’t believe anyone else didn’t notice.”

 

“Spike did, but he just thought it was wishful thinking.”

 

“Yeah. I didn’t actually believe you kept glancing at me. I thought I was imagining it.” Spike said honestly.

 

“No you weren’t imagining it.” She said with a blush and shy smile.

 

He smiles back, “I’m glad I wasn’t. I love you Buffy.”

 

“I love you too Spike.”

 

Tara smiles at the scene then asks Sirrus something.

 

“Sirrus? What can you tell me about mom?”

 

“She was amazing, one of the most generous and caring people I knew. I still don’t know what happened to her, the note didn’t go into details, she just told me It had to happen and one day I’ll understand. She said I was needed, but she didn’t specify for what. I love your mom like a sister, but she can sure as hell be cryptic when she wants to be. She hinted at something though, something that stuck with me.”

 

“What’s that?” Hornet asked concerned.

 

“She basically met my future self, and according to him...dark times are coming....and they threaten to swallow all creation. I didn’t read the rest, because Los Angeles fell.”

 

Tara looked concerned and passed him the journal again, “Finish it. Y-you can’t be p-prepared if you don’t know w-what’s coming.”

 

“You need to read it Sirrus. If your future self left you a message it’s something we have to read.” Arkillius adds on.

 

He nods and takes the journal, while he’s reading Giles was curious about something.

 

“You made it sound like Sirrus’s other self contacting him isn’t something of a regular occurrence. I would’ve thought travelling through realities and universes you’d have met lot’s, is that not the case?”

 

Arkillius sighs, “No. When we told you Sirrus & his brother are the last two Unsintebus’s in all creation, we literally mean all creation. He doesn’t have alternate versions of himself. The only way two Sirrus’s can be in one place is if it’s him & his future self.”

 

“I didn’t think you meant it wiped out even alternate versions of him.” Giles said shocked beyond belief.

 

“Technically it didn’t. He was the first one born. He doesn’t even know why, but he was born in 2017 when the others were supposed to be born in 2027. An entire 10 years later. We tried researching why but always came up empty. Rumours started circling that the gods knew what Verrocarth would do, so made sure Sirrus was born earlier. But of course it was never actually proven.”

 

“Fascinating!” Giles exclaims while writing the information down.

 

Sirrus’s voice brought their attention to him, “Apparently this Sirrus is from 500 years in the future, and you two were with him.” He pointed at Buffy & Spike, “And I mean you specific two. Your future self’s met Venessdruss as well.”

 

“We did?” Buffy asked amazed.

 

“Yeah. But obviously I don’t know why you’re there, future me isn’t stupid, he hasn’t told me what happens in my future, because there’s a chance it won’t happen if he does.” He turns to the next page and after reading the first couple of lines pales, “No.” He whispers in horror.

 

“What?” Arkillius asked seriously worried at Sirrus’s reaction.

 

“He hasn’t said specifically who it is, but it’s pretty obvious. It says word for word ‘The origin of pure evil shall walk again.’

 

Bedlam, Arkillius & Hornet pale at his words, “The Masters of Evil escape.” Hornet said with a tremor.

 

Everyone else pales as well, “Does it say how?” Angelus asked worried.

 

“No. But something obviously releases them. According to my future self it came out of nowhere, we stopped them but they left behind catastrophic damage across all creation. He either wants us to stop them escaping or prepare us for when it happens. But what I don’t understand is how Tara fits in.”

 

“M-me?” Tara asked incredulously.

 

“Yeah. She also explains why you’re the only Tara we’ve met who’s this powerful.”

 

“Why?” Bedlam asked curiously.

 

“Because with Tara’s birth mothers consent she possessed her to get pregnant, with only this specific Tara.”

 

Bedlam frowns, “She obviously knew something. Venessdruss helped us lock them away the first time, so maybe her daughter’s supposed to help the next time.”

 

“But why this specific Tara?” Wesley asked confused.

 

“I don’t know. But technically all the Tara’s will be Venessdruss’s daughters. Only this ones blood related not magically related.”

 

“What do you mean magically related?” Giles asked curiously.

 

“Technically because every reality tries to be the same at the start, when Venessdruss possessed Tara’s birth mother she magically connected to all the others as well. That’s why every Tara’s extremely advanced in magical abilities. But they won’t have this Tara’s strength.”

 

“Meaning they’re only magically Demigods?” Buffy asked confused.

 

Sirrus interrupts, “Spot on. I’ve just read a bit further on. Venessdruss borrowed her power to multiple Tara’s, so those ones are magically her daughters, but this Tara’s her actual daughter. Her possessing Tara’s birth mother explains why she looks nothing like Venessdruss.”

 

“So Venessdruss I-is my real m-mom?”

 

“Yeah she is.”

 

“I-is she still a-alive?”

 

“According to this yes. But it’s apparently not time for you to meet her yet.”

 

Tara looks fascinated by the prospect of meeting her mother.

 

“Well we apparently have at least 500 years before The Masters of Evil escape.” Hornet said with a sigh of relief.

 

“If we can figure out how it happened we can stop it.” Sirrus said determined.

 

Jonathan looked thoughtful, “Could it be the key? It apparently opens every dimension.”

 

“That’s a possibility. But it’s been used before in other realities.” His eyes widen, “But it’s also been stopped as well. With how far out the cage is it would take time to affect it.”

 

“No.” Bedlam says shocked, “The key could open the cage but with the wards placed on it, that would only be possible from literally right in front of it. But no ones stupid enough to release them.”

 

“Someone is or it wouldn’t have happened. That’s an easy fix then. We set up an observation post nearby and have them keep an eye out.”

 

“Yeah. That’s sounds good.”

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

The clock strikes 9pm.

 

“It’s time! Let’s do this.” Salazar ordered the minions.

 

They began to light the candles and Salazar begins to chant.

 

******

 

City Hall, Sunnydale, California

 

The sound of thunder made Marcus look out the window. The sky turned black and green lightning was striking the ground.

 

One of the soldiers came in, “What’s happening sir?”

 

“It seems like Salazar’s started his next ritual.”

 

“That can’t be good. What are we going to do?”

 

“Nothing as of yet. After we see what it does then we’ll see.”

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

The alarm sounding brought their attention to the screen, it showed a black sky & green lightning.

 

Buffy gasped, “That’s what happened when Salazar came here.”

 

“Meaning Stygian’s on his way.” Sirrus said grimly.

 

Everyone looked fearful at that.

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

“The rituals complete. Me & granddad are going to meet father.” Salazar said with a smirk then him and Solomon exited the Stronghold.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

They watched as Salazar & Solomon appeared downtown and just stood waiting. Then they all gasped as a green portal opened and Stygian stepped out, their eyes widened at what happened next.

 

******

 

Downtown, Sunnydale, California

 

Stygian stepped out of the portal, “Salazar!” He exclaims happily and hugs him, he then turns to Solomon and frowns, “Dad? Who the fuck are you wearing now?”

 

He sighs, “Long story. I’ll tell you about it later. Shall we go?”

 

“In a minute. I’ve brought help.” He said with a smirk, he turns back to the portal, “Let’s get a move on.”

 

The portal seemed to expand in size, and hundreds of Serpent Warriors came marching out.

 

Salazar & Solomon smirked, “Now that’s what I’m talking about.” Salazar said gleefully.

 

Stygian turns back to them, “Let’s have some fun.”

 

The 3 of them began walking down the street with The Serpent Warriors marching behind them.

 

******

 

City Hall, Sunnydale, California

 

They were all watching the CCTV cameras set up around Sunnydale, when they saw Stygian & The Serpent Warriors most of the occupants gasped at the sight.

 

“What are they?” One of the soldiers asked incredulously.

 

Marcus keeps staring at the screen, “I don’t know. It doesn’t make a difference, we’ll end The Serpent Family no matter how many show up.”

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension.

 

“What are we supposed to do against all of them?” Anne asked terrified.

 

“Hopefully Wolfram & Hart handle most of them. But we’ll deal.”

 

It was pretty obvious that Sirrus has a backup plan in place, but everyone’s wondering what.

 

They all watched in silence as Stygian, Salazar & Solomon made their way down the street with The Serpent Warriors in tow.

Notes:

Ben's dead, Solomon has a new host, Stygian’s arrived but not alone, a message from Sirrus’s future self is brought to light, and Xander’s depressed.

Is Xander’s depression what Salazar’s had done to him? Or has he done something much more sinister?

10 chapters left and this story's finished.

Like all the other chapters, this is all done by me. Let me know what you think.

Chapter 14: Chapter 14 - Irreparable Damages

Notes:

This chapters much shorter than the others, with Stygian’s arrival The Serpents have stepped up their game.

This chapter goes dark so just a heads up.

Salazar attacks our heroes and leaves them scarred.

More Information revealed.

Warnings updated with this chapter.

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

Salazar, Solomon & Stygian enter the Stronghold, “I’d like to introduce you all to my father, Stygian Serpent.”

 

The minions looked on in fear at the new arrival, “Welcome Master Stygian.” Hanson said as he approached.

 

“Well, at least some of you know manners.” He said in response.

 

This made the other minions rush to Welcome him as well.

 

“I’m glad to be here.” He turns to the doors, “Enter!”

 

The minions looked on in shock as The Serpent Warriors entered the Stronghold.

 

He turned back to the minions, “I’d like you to meet The Serpent Family’s most loyal followers. The Serpent Warriors.”

 

Kralik steps forward, “The slayer and Wolfram & Hart won’t be a problem now.”

 

Stygian turns to Salazar, “What’s this about Wolfram & Hart boy?”

 

“The Senior Partners have sent their best to get revenge after we destroyed the Los Angeles branch.”

 

He sighs, “I taught you better than that Salazar. You don’t just kill one insect, you take out their entire nest.” He finishes with a smirk.

 

“Yes. You did, and now you’re here all of Wolfram & Hart will burn.”

 

“You’re damn right it will.”

 

*******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

“What do you think Stygian will do now he’s here?” Darla asked worried.

 

“His first focus will be Wolfram & Hart, then The Senior Partners. Then us.” Sirrus said with complete seriousness.

 

“He’s going after The Senior Partners?” Lindsey asked in disbelief.

 

“I can guarantee it. They’ve made themselves enemies of The Serpent Family, and they think they can beat them. That’s something Stygian won’t allow them to get away with.”

 

“What’s stopping them coming after us again after we beat them?” Buffy asked scared.

 

“We’ll make sure they can’t return to this reality after they’re gone. We just have to hope they don’t put out a distress signal.”

 

“What happens if they do?” Giles asked concerned.

 

“Every Serpent Family member from all across creation will converge on this reality.” He replied grimly.

 

Everyone felt dread at the thought.

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

Salazar, Solomon & Stygian are sat drinking and catching up.

 

“So what’s been going on?” He asked curiously.

 

“I’ve found out the slayers sister Dawn is the key.” Salazar responds after taking a swig of his whisky.

 

“Well isn’t that interesting? How did you get here anyway?”

 

“The slayers ex boyfriend, a soldier named Riley Finn, and her friend who she looked at as a brother, called Xander Harris made a wish. To see what real human evil looked like.”

 

“Did you show them?” He asked with a smirk.

 

“Definitely. Finn’s dead & I had Harris tortured and sent back.”

 

“Why on earth did you send him back?”

 

“Because they’re hiding in a D.U.S.T. safehouse.”

 

“Ah I see, you have a plan.”

 

“Yeah, and it’s brilliant if I do say so myself.”

 

“What about you dad? Who was your first meat suit?”

 

“Someone called Ben. He was the host to a hell-god named Glory, who Salazar defeated.” He said with pride.

 

Stygian chuckles, “That’s my boy. Showing hell-gods & slayers alike who they’re messing with. How did Finn die?”

 

“Another genius play by Salazar. I was inside Finn’s head messing with him & everyone else, and Salazar corrupted him. To which his ex girlfriend had to kill him.”

 

Stygian bursts out laughing, “You my boy are literally amazing.” He addressed Salazar with overwhelming pride.

 

Salazar chuckles, “Just going off what I was taught.”

 

“Yes and you obviously listened well.”

 

He shrugs, “Of course I did. I’m a Serpent after all.”

 

Stygian chuckles, “Well, who’s this wanker The Senior Partners sent?”

 

“Some prick called Marcus Hamilton. He’s tougher than he looks I’ll give him that, but he’s nothing too special.”

 

“I’ll see what he’s made of, I like a good challenge.”

 

******

 

City Hall, Sunnydale, California

 

One of the soldiers entered the office.

 

“Sir, according to our scouts they’re sat around drinking and enjoying themselves.”

 

“Who's the new one?”

 

“Apparently his names Stygian, he’s Salazar’s father.”

 

“And the creatures?”

 

“They’re called Serpent Warriors sir. They’re The Serpent Family’s most loyal followers.”

 

He nods, “Anything else?”

 

“Yes sir. Our scouts seem to be growing more and more paranoid, they believe Salazar knows they’re there and is supposedly letting them listen in.”

 

“From what I’ve learnt recently regarding Salazar, it wouldn’t surprise me if he was.”

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

They were all sitting around slowly drinking, but extremely paranoid.

 

“Anyone else waiting for something to happen?” Spike asked curiously.

 

Everyone nodded, “Yeah but luckily I think Salazar, Solomon & Stygian are doing the same thing we are.” Sirrus said with a shrug.

 

“Sitting around drinking?” Faith asked confused.

 

Hornet interrupts, “Yeah definitely, don’t forget Salazar hasn’t seen Stygian in five years.”

 

“Yeah I completely forgot. So we’re safe?”

 

Sirrus pours himself another drink, “For the time being yes. If they get drunk though I’m not sure.”

 

“So why are we still drinking?” Anne asked confused.

 

“The safehouse has magical properties. None of you noticed how quickly Finn & Harris sobered up when Bedlam brought them back here that time?”

 

“Come to think of it yes, but I decided it wasn’t the best time to ask.” Giles said thoughtfully.

 

“The safehouse’s technically alive. You can’t get a hangover here and it sobers you up quickly in case you’re needed in the field.”

 

“That’s pretty cool.” Hank said impressed.

 

“Yes. It’s an amazing house.” Joyce commented with a nod.

 

“How many safehouses do you have?” Clem asked curiously.

 

“Thousands, in all different dimensions, universes, multiverse’s and even the void.” Arkillius responds.

 

“Wow. That’s amazing.” Buffy said in wonder.

 

Hornet chuckles, “This won’t even be the last time it’s used, others will use this safehouse after us.”

 

“Really? Other people could be sat here in the future?” Anne asks amazed.

 

Sirrus nods, “Yeah, that’s one of the reasons we buried Andrew here. So others can see how brave he was.”

 

“You did?” Jonathan asked his voice full of emotion.

 

“Yes we did.”

 

“Thank you.” He chuckles, “Andrew would love that, going down as a hero and other heroes seeing his gravestone.”

 

“Not a problem, he deserves the recognition for his heroic actions.”

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

They were all laughing as Salazar told them how Buffy reacted to killing Riley.

 

“With the face she pulled you’d have thought she’d never killed anything before. Quite disappointing really.” He said as he wiped the tears of his laughter away.

 

“She sounds like an irritating child, I’m going to look forward to breaking her spirit. Just like the last one, before she locked me up of course.” Stygian said then took a swig of his drink.

 

Solomon was pouring himself another glass, “Salazar wants to cast The Serpent Curse on her.”

 

“Not a bad idea, but only do it as a last resort.” He looks thoughtful, “What about Harris? They’ll be expecting us to deal with Hamilton first, so they won’t be expecting it.”

 

“I’ve thought about it. I’m doing it tomorrow, I know full well Bedlam will be watching any movement like a hawk.” Salazar said matter-of-factly.

 

“Yeah he’s not stupid. None of D.U.S.T. are that’s the problem.” He looks intrigued, “While we’re on the subject, how did you manage to wipe out Los Angeles without them figuring out your plan?”

 

He chuckles, “Because I made it obvious it had something to do with L.A.”

 

Stygian looks at him with pride, “You did the opposite of what you usually do, and they thought it was a red herring. I’m impressed Salazar.”

 

“Thanks dad.” He said and raised his glass.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

“How did the law about people needing to be trained come about?” Doyle asked curiously.

 

Hornet looks sad, “One of my best friends involved himself in monster hunting and got himself killed. He wasn’t in D.U.S.T., he had no knowledge of how to fight or anything. Sometimes our laws seem to get questioned by others, but we have reasons. I’m not wanting anyone to lose someone like me, and now how Jonathan has. If people are trained they have a much better chance at surviving. I’ve lost too many people in this line of work, and if people have to hate us for our laws so be it. At least we’re trying to keep people alive. We can’t be everywhere at once, so sometimes the laws are needed. Anyway when I said she was technically breaking the law, that’s because that law doesn’t really apply here. I still obviously think people need training, but it’s not an arrest worthy law. It’s just heavily advised against.”

 

“Why doesn’t it apply here?”

 

“In other multiverse’s creatures exist that hunt down people new to the monster hunting job. Those creatures don’t exist here. We’re not even sure how the creatures know, it’s like they’ve got a sixth sense or something. We’re good guys, we don’t like making laws like this, but sometimes we have no choice. We don’t take sadistic pleasure in making them. But the supernatural worlds a lot different to the human one, and some people don’t research it properly. stuff that seems harmless in the human world could be deadly in the real one. Think of it this way, if people actually paid attention and researched the world they were involving themselves in, our laws wouldn’t be needed to begin with.”

 

He nods, “Believe me I get it. I’m a demon so I know how deadly the supernatural world is, and yeah people should research more before getting involved.”

 

Giles nods but looked curious, “There’s also more to the slayers can’t date humans law isn’t there? something you haven’t told us yet? I’ve caught some of you subtly glance at each other whenever it’s mentioned.”

 

Sirrus sighs, “You’re right, there is. You’ve been handling the truths well. So I think you also need to know the classified reason slayers can’t date humans. Everything you heard is true, but we haven’t told you the main reason. Bear in mind the reason this is classified is to not panic slayers. We usually hope we can get around telling you this part.”

 

“What?” Faith asked scared.

 

“In our research into slayers we found the main classified reason to make it illegal.” He turns to Buffy, “Did you ever find yourself more angry & irritated while dating Riley?”

 

“Yeah come to think of it I did.”

 

Anya interrupts, “He just wasn’t pleasing you enough in bed Buffy.”

 

Sirrus shakes his head, “Believe me we would have preferred that to the real reason.” He looks back at Buffy, “The anger & irritation you felt was coming from your slayer. You also found yourself more angry with your friends & family didn’t you?” She nods with a scared look on her face, “You aren’t the first slayer to have friends & family, that was something The Watchers Council covered up....like you other slayers had friends & families, who wanted them to have a normal life....so the girls started dating humans. The problem is this angered their slayers, the girls started feeling angry all the time, shouting at their friends & Families. The longer they dated humans, the worse the problem became. Until one day one of the girls was completely took over by her slayer side, the girl was trapped inside.....and had to watch as the slayer murdered all her friends, family, and human boyfriend. The slayer then went on a rampage. Killing anyone & anything she come across. We had no choice but to take her out.”

 

“So if I carried on listening to my friends and dated humans my slayer would have snapped and killed them?” Buffy asked terrified.

 

“Yes. We couldn’t make the law official until we made sure it wasn’t a one time thing. But other slayers started getting angry dating humans. The same thing happened two more times, luckily we were ready. We made sure they didn’t kill anyone, and locked them up hoping to calm the slayer down and release the girl. We eventually succeeded. But only after promising to the slayer we’d make it illegal. After more research into slayers, we found out it was the entire line rebelling, meaning if multiple slayers were active at once...It could have been the start of an apocalypse.”

 

“Why didn’t you mention this before?” Wesley asked confused.

 

“The same reason Buffy waited years to tell her mum the truth and prove it. To not scare her or cause panic. Enough slayers listened without us telling them the real truth. We didn’t want to make that classified, but the reaction from some slayers when they were told wasn’t pretty. One of them even made sure she died when she went on patrol after we told her.”

 

“Yes, if that was their reaction I can see why you made it classified.” Giles said while cleaning his glasses, “Did Travers know?”

 

“Yeah, he did. We told him ourselves, hoping he would stop slayers dating humans, but he obviously didn’t listen.”

 

“Did any of the Buffies do that? Lose control and kill everyone?” Anne asked scared.

 

“No actually. Their relationships don’t last long enough for it to happen. Especially with Spike being so close.”

 

“Why did their slayers react that way?”

 

“Because the demon slayers are made from is an extremely proud species. It sees the slayers as daughters in a way, or sons where male slayers exist. Meaning it only wants the best for them, and humans aren’t something it sees as worthy. So when everyone round you is trying to force you to date humans it obviously lashes out. I mean even Giles & Wesley knew your powers originally from a demon, and they never told you.”

 

Giles & Wesley looked ashamed, “No, it was something The Watchers Council forbid us to do.” Giles said apologetically.

 

“We know. Travers is usually more of a snake than The Serpent Family, at least you know that they’re dicks though. The amount of Traverses we’ve arrested & the amount of councils we’ve shut downs unreal.”

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

“I still preferred when slayers could date humans, the carnage they caused when the slayer snapped was brilliant. Then D.U.S.T. had to go and make that sodding law and spoil our entertainment.” Stygian said annoyed.

 

Salazar huffs. “D.U.S.T. ruin everyone’s fun. I liked the destruction the slayers caused too. I got intrigued and looked into how many people that laws actually saved, do you know how many?” they shake their heads, “Billions! From our multiverse, God knows how many it saved here.”

 

Solomon snorts, “I can remember when that slayer complained, after D.U.S.T. told her the truth she got herself killed, it was fucking hilarious. I think it’s odd, we know all their laws and the real reason they exist. We don’t even follow them!”

 

Stygian chuckles, “I know. I remember the day the ‘People getting involved in monster hunting need training’ law came about. That’s not really a problem here. Those creatures that hunt down novices don’t exist in this multiverse.”

 

Salazar pours himself another drink, “Yeah those irritating little creatures. They’re entertaining but extremely annoying.”

 

“Yeah they are. Anyway what was responsible for the wish?”

 

“A denial demon apparently.”

 

“Bollocks. That means you can’t get home until it’s dead or the people responsible for it come out of denial, and with Finn being dead that’s not going to happen.”

 

“Yeah I figured that out, it explains why D.U.S.T. haven’t sent me home yet, they’re obviously looking for it so I’m letting them.”

 

“Tomorrow I think it’s time the world knows Stygian’s here.” Solomon said with a smirk.

 

“Oh they will. The damage I’ll cause will be Irreparable.” Stygian said with a chuckle.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

“Do The Serpent Family know your laws?” Darla asked curiously.

 

Arkillius snorts, “Yeah. They know all of them and the reasons they exist in the first place.”

 

“Meaning they knew slayers snapped when dating humans?” Buffy asked shocked.

 

“Yeah and they found that extremely entertaining. Until the law was put in place of course.”

 

Anne huffs, “They would find it entertaining, I can’t believe how sadistic they are.”

 

“They take great pleasure in peoples pain....Stygian’s one of the worst. We have to be extremely careful with him.”

 

Buffy looks scared, “What will he do?”

 

“Put it this way, Salazar’s tame in comparison. He only took out one Wolfram & Hart office, I can guarantee Stygian will take out the rest now he’s here.”

 

“How long before that happens?” Lindsey asked in disbelief.

 

“I’m actually shocked he hasn’t done it already. But like Sirrus & Hornet pointed out they’re probably drinking themselves, tomorrow will be another story though.”

 

Giles looked at the clock at that, “Well it’s 11pm, I suggest we turn in. We need to be ready.”

 

They all agreed and went to bed.

 

******

 

City Hall, Sunnydale, California

 

Marcus was sat at his desk, when a portal opened and some of The Senior Partners best demons walked through.

 

He smirks, “Looks like The Senior Partners found out about Stygian’s arrival. Good.”

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

It was 9am when they all made their way down stairs to the kitchen.

 

“Hornet? Check the monitors make sure nothing happened while we were asleep.”

 

He nods and leaves the room.

 

“Has anyone checked on Xander?” Willow asked worried.

 

Arkillius nods, “I did, he was still asleep.”

 

“OK what are we going to do about him?”

 

He looks at her sympathetically, “There’s nothing we can do. Salazar’s made sure Bedlam can’t heal him, and we have no clue what else happened to him. Until Xander himself chooses to tell us, we’re in the dark. He was extremely adamant on none of you looking in on him though.”

 

“Why?” She said hurt.

 

“You’re his friends. He doesn’t want you seeing him like that, I think he believes it will heal itself. The problem is it won’t, Salazar’s done a number on him.”

 

Bedlam leaned on the kitchen island, “I know full well Salazar’s done something else to him. But for the life of me I can’t figure out what.” He said annoyed.

 

“Can’t you look at people and see their essences or whatever you said?” Cordelia asked curiously.

 

“Yeah under normal circumstances I could, but Salazar’s extremely powerful. He’s even able to block my sight if he wanted to, and that’s exactly what I believe he’s done. I can’t sense or see anything wrong with Xander, but I have this gut feeling somethings off.”

 

“What could it possibly be?” Giles asked concerned.

 

“I don’t know. With the way Salazar’s mind works it could be anything, but until he plays his hand we won’t know. The main reason he hasn’t done it yet is because he’s waiting for us to let our guards down, and with Hamilton attacking now is the perfect opportunity.”

 

“Why?” Angel asked confused.

 

“Because Salazar knows we’ll expect him to focus on Hamilton and leave us alone, and for the most part he will. Which will lead us to let our guards down, and then he’ll strike. It’s what he usually does, but that brings up another problem.”

 

“What’s that?”

 

“Because we know that’s what he usually does will he do the exact opposite? This could be like Los Angeles and be a red herring. With Hamilton being here though I doubt it.”

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

It was 12pm when Stygian walks into the room, “Dad, Salazar follow me.” He said as he walked past and straight outside.

 

They both shrugged and followed along. Once outside Stygian was stood in a clearing of a nearby field, they both walked over to him.

 

“It’s time to rid ourselves of Wolfram & Hart.” He said with a smirk.

 

They both nodded with their own smirks and stood in a triangle shape facing each other, with that they all extended one hand out each then begin chanting. A green orb appeared in between their hands and started expanding in size. After a couple of minutes the orb shot skyward disappearing into the clouds, the entire blacked out sky flashed green for a second then went back dark. They then went back inside.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

The alarm made them all go to the main room to watch the screen. They saw Stygian, Salazar & Solomon in a field.

 

“What are they doing?” Buffy asked confused.

 

As if to answer her question the green orb appeared in their hands then shot skywards, after the sky flashed green the screen switched to Wolfram & Hart offices all over the world. They all watched on shocked as what appeared to be a black hole opened up behind each office and swallowed them, leaving behind nothing but a small crater where the building used to stand.

 

“They’ve just wiped out all the Wolfram & Hart offices.” Lindsey said shocked.

 

“How on earth did they do that?!” Wesley exclaims incredulously.

 

“With Stygian being here Solomon’s stronger, and when 3 extremely powerful evil warlocks combine their powers it’s usually catastrophic.” Sirrus said grimly.

 

******

 

City Hall, Sunnydale, California

 

One of the soldiers run into the office, “Sir! The Serpent Family have just wiped out the remaining offices of Wolfram & Hart all over the world.”

 

“How on earth has that happened?! They haven’t left Sunnydale!” He demanded in a rage.

 

“They used magic sir, a small black hole opened up where each office was and pulled them in.”

 

“I got told they were extremely powerful, but I never realised how powerful until now.” He said while pacing.

 

“What are we going to do sir?”

 

“I’ve been given a job and I intend to finish it. If I can’t kill Salazar, that doesn’t mean I can’t kill his father.”

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

It was 3pm and they were sitting around chatting.

 

“Hamilton’s going to strike again soon. Especially since we destroyed the rest of Wolfram & Hart.” Salazar said amused.

 

Stygian smirks, “I’m looking forward to it.”

 

Solomon chuckles, “The end is coming. After Hamilton’s dealt with it’s the slayers turn.”

 

“Yes it is. Speaking of which, Salazar it’s time.”

 

He smirks, “Good.” He waves over the blue demon that affected Xander. “You know what to do.”

 

She nods, “Yes Master Salazar.” She then touches his forehead.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

Xander was looking at himself in a mirror when his eyes flashed green, he smirks then makes his way down to the kitchen. After he enters he picks something up then makes his way to the main room.

 

Bedlam frowns as he enters, “Xander?” this made everyone turn to look.

 

“Sorry mate but not quite.” He smirks and his eyes flash green.

 

Bedlam’s eyes widened, “Salazar!” He exclaims shocked.

 

“Spot on old chap.” He withdraws a kitchen knife and lunges at Buffy, only for her to be pushed out the way by Spike, making the knife impale him instead.

 

“You little wanker!” He snapped angrily, Cordelia succeeded in getting Dawn out of the room only for Salazar to grab her and break her neck.

 

“NOOOOO!!!” Was screamed out by all of the occupants, then a flash happened and Salazar was gone leaving a distraught Xander in his place.

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

“Fuck! Their safety mechanism kicked in and banished me.” He said through clenched teeth. “I still killed that Cordelia bint though.”

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

Doyle was on the ground cradling Cordelia’s body sobbing, Gunn, Wesley, Fred, Angel & Lorne were the most upset. Everyone else was still crying themselves.

 

“Oh God! Oh God! What did he make me do?!” Xander screamed in despair.

 

“Bedlam what the hells just happened?!” Sirrus exclaims in disbelief.

 

“Salazar made it possible to link his mind with Xander’s so he could control him. The safehouse’s safety mechanism kicked in and banished him.” He said while staring at Cordelia’s body. “I knew he did something! I knew it!” He begins pacing as guilt began to consume him.

 

“Can you stop him doing it again?” Buffy asked through tears.

 

He shakes his head, “No Salazar’s made sure none of my magic affects Xander remember? But he won’t be able to do it again as long as he stays in the safehouse. It wasn’t prepared before, now it’s going to be looking for people being controlled.”

 

“Salazar’s gonna pay for this.” Doyle said through clenched teeth.

 

Sirrus nods, “I’m going to call Antinin. We can’t keep letting Salazar run amok. That demon needs to be found. Bedlam, bury Cordelia.” He then turned around and exited the room.

 

Doyle picked up Cordelia, “Can I carry her?”

 

Bedlam nods, “Of course. Follow me.”

 

Arkillius & Hornet walk past with shovels as they exit the safehouse.

 

They walked up to Andrew’s grave, then Hornet & Arkillius begin digging another one next to his.

 

Bedlam makes a similar coffin to the one Andrew was in, Doyle gently lays her inside and closes the lid. After a couple of minutes the hole was dug. Multiple people followed them out, all that’s missing is Willow & Xander.

 

“There both inside. Willow’s trying to calm Xander down.” Fred explained with a sniffle as she clung to Wesley’s side.

 

April watched the proceedings in confusion not really understanding. But she stayed silent while the others mourned.

 

Bedlam levitates Cordelia’s coffin and lowers it into the ground. After that Hornet & Arkillius begin filling it back in.

 

“I can’t believe Cordy’s gone.” Doyle said as he watched them fill the grave in.

 

“Neither can I.” Angel said sadly.

 

“I’m sorry.” Bedlam said apologetically, “I knew there was something wrong, but I obviously didn’t pay enough attention.”

 

“No. Don’t blame yourself.” Wesley said reassuringly. “You told us all something was wrong. We should have all been paying attention, if we were this could have been avoided.”

 

Buffy who was fussing over Spike’s wound turns to Bedlam. “Wesley’s right. Salazar’s smart he made sure you couldn’t do spells on Xander for a reason. We all should’ve realised he’d try something.”

 

He sighs, “The problem is I knew he would. I just didn’t think he’d do it so soon. He used the fact we know him to his advantage again, we knew he’d strike but we were expecting it to be later.”

 

Giles put a comforting hand on his shoulder, “I know. With us preparing for it later, he surprised us by attacking earlier.”

 

Sirrus steps up beside them, “Everyone prepare yourselves. Antinin & Varkveion have the demon pinned down, they’ve made sure it can’t escape. It’ll be dead by tomorrow. Then we take on Salazar.”

 

They all got a determined look on their face and nodded.

 

After Cordelia was buried Bedlam created a headstone which read ‘Cordelia Chase. Devoted Friend. Beloved Daughter. Trusted Teammate. Loved In Life As She Will Be In Death. Gone But Never Forgotten.’ Everyone seemed to like what it said. It was 4pm by the time they were finished.

 

Willow’s scream of “XANDER NOOO!!” Had them all running back to the mansion. They burst through the door in time to see Xander slit his own throat with the kitchen knife.

 

“NOOOOO!!!” Multiple voices screamed out.

 

Bedlam runs over in a panic, he puts his hand on Xander but nothing happened.

 

“I can’t heal him! Fuck!” He looks down in time to see the life leave Xander’s eyes.

 

Willow’s sobbing as she explains what happened, “He said he couldn’t handle the guilt anymore....and he didn’t want Salazar taking control again.....I tried telling him it wasn’t his fault...but he wouldn’t listen....he’s gone...Buffy. Xander’s gone.” Tara pulls her into a hug.

 

Buffy was sobbing herself, “Oh God! Xander!” Spike pulls her into a hug, and William does the same with a sobbing Anne.

 

They all hear a laughing coming from the screen, Salazar, Stygian & Solomon were all sat in what appeared to be thrones.

 

“So hyena boy killed himself did he? About time!” Salazar said then the three of them burst out laughing again.

 

“YOU BASTARDS!!!!” Buffy screamed at the screen.

 

“Feisty one you are. You remind me of that other Buffy. You know the one who’s family & friends I killed?” Stygian said with a smirk.

 

Sirrus steps forward, “What did you do Salazar?” He asked through clenched teeth, “How did you know Xander would kill himself?”

 

“Oh because I let him think that was his only escape.” He looks at them with an ecstatic expression. “I told him I’d use his body to murder you all in your sleep. He obviously believed me. I was so sure he’d kill himself that I even took Bedlam’s safety spell off.”

 

Spike growled, “You sick fuck. That was your plan all along wasn’t it? To make him kill himself in front of us?”

 

“Spot on bleach boy. What can I say? I’m evil.” He finishes with a smirk.

 

Hornet steps up beside Spike, “The denial demon will be dead by tomorrow. Then we finish this.” He said dangerously.

 

“Looking forward to it.” He then addresses Buffy, “Your usual enemies let you drop your guard slayer. What did you think would happen involving pussies like Harris into monster hunting? He was bound to die, and now you have to live knowing it was your fault.”

 

Buffy looked stricken at his words.

 

Joyce was outraged, “Don’t you dare blame my daughter for this!”

 

His eyes turn black, “I’ll blame your bitch of a daughter for what I like! Her stupid beliefs let those retards make a wish that dragged me here and away from my own children! I’m gonna make this world burn! You fuckers will never forget what real evil is again!”

 

Spike snarled, “You leave my girl & Joyce alone you wanker!”

 

“That other Buffy didn’t leave my dad alone, and because of her my mum’s dead.” He responds dangerously.

 

“He killed her friends & family!” Anne shouts angrily.

 

Stygian chuckles, “Do you know what’s Ironic? I only killed them because she wouldn’t let me have the weapon I came for.....and I only wanted it to kill other evil beings. So all that Buffy’s friends and family died because she was protecting evil. She didn’t & still doesn’t know that of course, but it’s extremely funny.”

 

“You won’t win. We’ll see to that.” Giles said dangerously, everyone could hear a hint of Ripper in his voice.

 

Solomon snorts, “Neither will you. Even if you defeat us, your friends are dead, Los Angeles has fallen, the councils no more, Wolfram & Hart are gone, and soon Hamilton & The Senior Partners will be dealt with. All that leaves is you, and a damaged earth with irreparable damages.”

 

Doyle glares at them, “We’ll stop you. That’s all that matters now.”

 

The three of them begin laughing, “That’s the spirit! But we have one last trick up our sleeve.” Salazar said with a smirk.

 

“It doesn’t matter. The denial demon will be gone, then there’s nothing keeping you here.” Angelus growled out.

 

“Why do you think I haven’t made a play for the key yet?” He asked with a raised eyebrow, “Because I know I can’t leave.”

 

Everyone paled at that, even Hank & Dawn who were in the kitchen, she didn’t need to be in the room with Xander’s body.

 

Buffy looked scared, “You can just open a portal and leave once it’s dead. Why do you still need the key?”

 

“We don’t. But it’ll hurt you, so that’s a bonus. Your denial dragged me here. I’m making sure you never forget just how evil humans can be. Then maybe you’ll make sure your puppet masters keep their mouths shut. No one insults The Serpent Family.” With that the screen goes off.

 

Anne looked angry, “What did he mean by puppet masters?”

 

Arkillius was still staring at the blackened screen, “The fact you used to let your friends dictate your decisions and basically control you.”

 

Buffy & Anne’s eyes flashed with hurt as the insult was explained, but covered that up with anger & determination.

 

“How come they could do that? Communicate with us through the screen?” Lorne asked curiously.

 

Hornet leans down and closes Xander’s lifeless eyes, “Because the monitors also work as communication screens, but with us always pretty much being together we didn’t need to use it.”

 

“How come they could contact us? We can’t do it to them.” Faith asked annoyed.

 

“We can now. With The Serpent Warriors & Stygian here they’re no longer hiding the location of their base. It means they’re getting ready for the final fight.”

 

“What do you think he meant? About having one last trick up their sleeve?” Oz asked concerned.

 

“The Hellmouth.” Ethan said grimly. “It’s The Hellmouth isn’t it?”

 

Hornet nods, “Yeah, I’m afraid so.”

 

That left them all in a strong silence, one Sirrus interrupted, “Bedlam? Bury Xander. I hope we don’t lose anyone else. But we still have the final fight to go.”

 

Ethan raised his hand, “I apologise in advance for what I’m suggesting, but it will suit our purposes to bury him here.”

 

“What do you mean by suit our purposes?” Willow asked in disbelief.

 

He raises both hands in a pacifying manner, “I’ve been listening to what we’ve been told, D.U.S.T. made it pretty clear that quite a few Xanders act like this one did. When The Serpent Curse is cast I believe those other Buffies will use this safehouse, and she’ll obviously bring the others here. Seeing their own grave and having Salazar be responsible might just be the wake up call the other Xanders need. It could bring them out of denial and possibly save their lives.”

 

Buffy got a guilty look on her face and Willow looked at her incredulously.

 

“You can’t be agreeing with this Buffy?”

 

“It could help the other Buffies, the first one just came back from the dead Willow. She won’t want Xander on her case when she & that Spike end up together.” She said apologetically. Then tries reassuring her, “And Ethan’s right, it could save those other Xanders. Ours died but that doesn’t mean the others have to die too.”

 

She sighs, “I suppose you’re right. I can see the advantages it has, but it kinda feels wrong you know?”

 

“Yeah I do, but you saw how long it took our Xander to accept the truth, and now he’s dead. If the other Xanders see the damage Salazar’s capable of it will wake them up. It might even help wake the other Buffies & Willows up.”

 

She nods, “Yeah it took him too long, if it can save other Xanders then I’m in.”

 

Giles was cleaning his glasses, “As am I. But regarding the final fight with Salazar, we may need a miracle.”

 

Little did they know a miracle would happen in time for the final fight. But what it is will shock them all.

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

It was 7pm when Salazar addresses Hanson, “Bring the sacrifices. It’s time.”

 

“Yes Master Salazar.”

 

Salazar, Stygian & Solomon walked out of the Stronghold with the minions dragging multiple prisoners behind them.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

Willow, Buffy, Anne & Giles were stood looking at Xander’s headstone, “I can’t believe he’s gone.” Willow said mournfully.

 

“Nor can I.” Giles said sadly, “I always hoped he would eventually wake up from his delusions, he did but it was too late. I would have liked to know the Xander without any hatred or bigotry, but alas that’s not going to happen now.”

 

“I know.” Buffy said just as sadly, “Even meeting other versions of him won’t be the same. Our Xander’s gone....and he’s not coming back.”

 

“Salazar knew he’d kill himself. We didn’t even have time to grieve for Cordelia before it happened.” Anne said sorrowfully.

 

Giles nods, “I believe that may have been his plan. I also believe he’ll leave us be for now and concentrate on Hamilton.”

 

Spike & William walked over, Spike put his arm around Buffy, while William did the same to Anne.

 

“I think he’s opening the Hellmouth tonight.” Spike said grimly, “He wanted us occupied for something.”

 

Giles sighs, “I believe you’re right. Turok-Han are not something I want added to the already long list of enemies.”

 

With one last look at Xander’s headstone they head back inside, it read. ‘Alexander ‘Xander’ Harris. Made Mistakes Like All of Us. Some Bigger Than Others. Beloved Friend. He Will Be Missed.’

 

******

 

Sunnydale High, California

 

Salazar, Solomon & Stygian entered the old library and proceed to The Hellmouth. They stop at the seal and wait for the minions.

 

“Salazar block D.U.S.T.’s warning system until this is over.” Stygian ordered.

 

He nods and does just that. After the blockers in place the minions drag the prisoners over to them.

 

They begin slitting the prisoners throats allowing the blood to spill on the seal.

 

It opens and a clawed hand reaches out, after the Turok-Han climbs up it looks at Salazar, Solomon & Stygian with The Serpent Warriors behind them, after feeling the darkness and evil radiating off them it proceeds to kneel down on one knee in a sign of servitude.

 

Salazar smirks, “It’s time to begin.”

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

The alarm sounding brought their attention to the screen, what they saw made them all gasp. Multiple bodies were littered around the open seal as Turok-Han came out of The Hellmouth and knelt down in front of The Serpents.

 

“It’s soon going to be time.” Sirrus said grimly.

 

They all watched on in dread.

Notes:

Cordelia & Xander are dead, All the Wolfram & Hart offices are gone, The Hellmouths been opened, and the main reason for the slayers can’t date humans law came to light.

Most chapters from now on will be around this length, as we approach the end game.

Like all other chapters, this is all done by me. Let me know what you think.

Chapter 15: Chapter 15 - Rise of The Turok-Han

Notes:

Another short one.

More information revealed.

The Serpents & Hamilton prepare for the battle.

Characters updated with this chapter.

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

Stygian, Salazar & Solomon re-enter the Stronghold with at least 150 Turok-Han behind them as well as The Serpent Warriors.

 

Kralik steps forward, “I thought there would be more.” He said with a frown.

 

Stygian chuckles, “There is, but we don’t want to waste them all straight away. This many will suit our purposes for now, from what I’ve heard about them they’re extremely deadly.”

 

He nods his understanding, Salazar steps up beside Stygian, “The final battle will soon be upon us.” He addresses the minions.

 

They all approach to listen, he continues, “Hamilton, then the slayer, then the world. Prepare yourselves, we don’t have long, tomorrow it all ends.” He turns to the Turok-Han, “Make yourselves at home. War is upon us.”

 

The Turok-Han began to spread around the Stronghold and the minions decided to prepare themselves as well.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

“What are we going to do?” Buffy asked scared, “We can’t take on The Serpent Warriors, Ubervamps, Stygian, Solomon & Salazar all at once.”

 

“We’ll manage kitten.” Spike said reassuringly as he pulled her into an embrace, “It’s what the good guys do.”

 

She sighs and lays her head against his chest, “Thank you. I love you Spike.”

 

He kisses the top of her head, “I love you too kitten.”

 

Sirrus looks thoughtful, “Hornet? Check the monitors for anymore activity at the high school.”

 

Hornet nods and does just that, 10 minutes later he comes back in the main room.

 

“It’s quiet, too quiet. No movement whatsoever.”

 

Sirrus frowns, “What the hell are they playing at? They wouldn’t leave The Hellmouth unguarded. Especially when they have more Turok-Han in waiting.”

 

Wesley was cleaning his glasses, “Do you think it’s perhaps a trap?”

 

“That’s exactly what I think it is, only it’s not meant for us. Salazar knows we aren’t stupid enough to fall for such an obvious trap.”

 

Lindsey frowns, “It could be for Hamilton, he’ll think their ego made them stupid enough to leave The Hellmouth unguarded.”

 

Sirrus begins pacing, “Or Hamilton’s scouts, they’ve been following Salazar, and the problem with that is Salazar always knows when he’s being followed.”

 

******

 

City Hall, Sunnydale, California

 

One of the soldiers enter the office, “Sir they’ve opened The Hellmouth and now have Turok-Han working for them.”

 

Marcus was looking out of the window and sighed, “That could be a problem, I’ll talk to The Senior Partners.”

 

“Very well sir.” He salutes then leaves the room.

 

He turns straightens up his tie then opens a portal and steps through.

 

 ******

 

The Senior Partners Dimension

 

“What do you require Marcus?” The Wolf asked curiously.

 

“Masters The Serpents have opened The Hellmouth and the Turok-Han have gave them their servitude.”

 

“This is not acceptable Marcus. The Serpent Family are ruining everything. All our offices are gone, our plans for Angel destroyed, and now they’ve released the Turok-Han. I believe it’s time.”

 

With that a portal opens and hundreds of demons of all shapes and sizes appear.

 

“We know we already sent you help, but the arrival of the Turok-Han draws our hand. Make them pay for crossing us.” The Wolf commanded.

 

He nods, “Yes Masters.” He turns and leaves through a portal with the demons marching along behind.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

The sound of a different alarm drew their attention to the screen, most people frowned not really understanding why it sounded so different, that is until their eyes fell on the screen.

 

“Oh My God!” Buffy exclaims in panic, “What the hells happening?”

 

On the screen Hamilton stepped out of a portal with hundreds of demons behind him. The were all gathered around city hall.

 

“It’s the armies of The Senior Partners. They must know about The Hellmouth.“ Lindsey responds grimly.

 

“This battles going to be insane, do me a sodding favour and tell me we’re not going out in the middle when they start?” Spike asked incredulously.

 

Sirrus shakes his head, “No. We’ll let them fight first. Hopefully Hamilton and his forces will make a dint in Salazar’s army.” He frowns, “But that raises the question of why The Hellmouths abandoned? If the war between the Serpent Family and Wolfram & Hart is going to happen. Then who’s the trap for?”

 

Hornet looks thoughtful, “I don’t have a clue, we should set up a second monitor. One to watch the fight and one to watch the school. That way we could see his minions leave when it begins.”

 

He nods, “Yeah do that. If we see anyone leave then we’ll go in after. We need to place a barrier over The Hellmouth, it’ll stop them getting more Turok-Han.”

 

Hornet nods and fetches another monitor then sets it up next to the main one, after using it’s touchscreen capabilities a sky view of the old high school appeared on the screen.

 

Hornet steps back once he’s finished, “It’s up and running. We should see any activity that happens.”

 

Sirrus nods, “Good. We’ll set it up to record. I doubt the fight between Hamilton & The Serpents will start until tomorrow.”

 

“You’re probably right. After their fight it’s our turn.”

 

“Yeah it is.”

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

“Masters you might want to see this.” Kralik said as he enters the room, “We need to go to the roof.”

 

Salazar, Solomon & Stygian begin following him and they eventually reached the roof access door. Kralik opened it walks towards the edge of the building and pointed off into the distance.

 

They walk over to him and look what he’s pointing at. In the distance near Sunnydale’s city hall they can see huge demons that tower above the buildings.

 

“So it looks like Hamilton informed The Senior Partners about The Hellmouth.” Stygian said amused.

 

“It appears so.” Solomon said just as amused.

 

“What are we going to do Masters?” Kralik asked curiously.

 

Salazar smirks, “We don’t only have The Serpent Warriors and Turok-Han at our disposal. We’re legendary for a reason. If they want to bring in giants, we’ll bring our own.”

 

“Yes we will.” Stygian said determined as he looked in the direction of city hall.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

“You made it sound like The Serpents are going to win. But look at the size of some of those demons, how could they win?” Anne asked confused.

 

“You saw The Serpent Beast in Xander’s mind, they have more of them and other creatures similar to that.”

 

“Great! Just great. That’s all we need.”

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

They re-enter the main room, “Hanson! Fetch me the crystal.” Salazar ordered as he walks to the middle of the room.

 

“Yes Master Salazar.” He leaves the room.

 

Stygian grabs a nearby table and places it in the middle of the room. The 3 of them stand facing each other around the table as they wait for Hanson.

 

The minions looked on in confusion not understanding what they were doing.

 

Hanson enters again with a green crystal he placed it in the middle of the table between them.

 

They began chanting then their eyes turn black and green lightning begins coming off them, they each withdraw a knife and cut their hand letting the blood drip onto the crystal.

 

The crystal begins glowing and starts to levitate until it’s floating at eye level.

 

After a bit more chanting a blast wave comes off the crystal and shoots in every direction and out the Stronghold.

 

******

 

City Hall, Sunnydale, California

 

Marcus was sitting at the desk when he felt something weird pass through him. He automatically felt off and it appears everyone else felt it too, including the demons. As one of the soldiers entered the office.

 

“Did you feel that sir?” He asked confused.

 

“Yes. I’m not sure what it was but I don’t like it. I think I need to consult with The Senior Partners again.”

 

He stands and tries opening a portal, only nothing happened, “What on earth?” He asked with a frown. “Get our seers on this. Find out why I can’t go to The Senior Partners.”

 

“Right away sir.”

 

*****

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

Everyone in the Safehouse felt the exact same thing, “What was that?” Buffy asked confused.

 

Bedlam frowns, “I don’t know. But it felt powerful.”

 

Sirrus also frowns, “We need to know. I bet that was Salazar.”

 

Bedlam exits the room, then after a couple of minutes comes back in.

 

“I’ve just checked the magical sensors, if I’m not mistaken Salazar’s just locked The Senior Partners out of this reality. There’s no way for Hamilton to contact them now.”

 

Lindsey’s eyes widened, “The Senior Partners can’t get back?” He asked in disbelief.

 

“If he’s done the ritual I think he’s done, then no. At least not for a very long time.”

 

“What was that strange sensation we all felt just now?” Giles asked curiously.

 

“The ritual basically sent a shockwave out into the world, sealing all portal possibilities to The Senior Partners Dimension. Anyone & anything knowledgeable of the supernatural felt it.”

 

“So not only have they destroyed every Wolfram & Hart office, but they’ve also cut all contact to The Senior Partners? William asked with a frown, “They do realise doing that has actually helped us don’t they? I mean the bloody Senior Partners are gone. That’s one less enemy to face in the future.”

 

“I don’t really think they care. The Senior Partners were an enemy of them as well. That it’s helped you is one price they’re willing to pay.” Hornet responded.

 

“Yeah I reckon you’re right.”

 

******

 

City Hall, Sunnydale, California

 

The soldier from before came back to the office, “Sir, The seers informed me that The Serpents have cut The Senior Partners connection to this reality.”

 

“What?! Can it be undone?!” He demanded.

 

He shakes his head, “No sir, but they informed me it will eventually fade, only not for a very long time. Thousands of years according to them.”

 

“Damn it! Those Serpents are more trouble than I gave them credit for. It makes no difference, The Senior Partners last command of me is to make The Serpent Family pay, and I intend to do just that. Even if it kills me.”

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

It was 11pm when Giles decided it was best to get some sleep, “It’s late, we need to be prepared for tomorrow. The denial demon will be killed and the battle between our enemies will begin. We can see if there is a trap on the high school and hopefully stop The Serpents from gathering more Turok-Han.”

 

“Yeah that’s probably for the best.” Sirrus agreed with a nod.

 

The rest agreed and they went to bed.

 

******

 

Sirrus’s Dream – Start

 

He was in the middle of a desert, he knew exactly where he was, with a sigh he addressed the other presence.

 

“Hello Sineya.” He turns around and looks at the first slayer.

 

“They were never supposed to know!”

 

He shrugs, “They needed the real reason slayers can’t date humans. The suicides made us keep that law classified just like you wanted, but if they need a real reason we won’t hold back the truth. No matter how much of your wrath that brings.”

 

“Them knowing changes events! Things won’t happen now!”

 

“I know. Buffy knowing the real reason could help the prophecised child be born earlier Sineya. That way humanity isn’t wiped out by The First. I’m not risking lives because you wanted certain things to play out first. Do you want me to tell them the other truth? That If this reality played out how it was supposed to, humanity would have gone extinct? Because you took too long getting Buffy & Spike together?”

 

“Them knowing will have repercussions Sirrus.”

 

“I’m well aware of that Sineya. One’s D.U.S.T. will deal with.”

 

“It would have been safer them not knowing.”

 

“It would have been yes.” He sighs, “I’m old Sineya, I know how the real world works, some things have to happen, and some don’t. D.U.S.T. have been dealing with situations like this for Billions of years, and creations still here. We know people question our laws, but if they were in our shoes they’d understand. Buffy won’t kill herself do to the truth. The slayer line won’t nearly end this time.”

 

“I hope you’re right. You usually know what you’re doing, so I’ll let this play out. For now.”

 

“That’s all I ask.”

 

Sineya nods then disappears.

 

Sirrus’s Dream – End

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

It was 7am when Salazar, Solomon & Stygian entered the main room.

 

“Prepare yourselves! We go to war later today!” Salazar commanded.

 

The minions, Serpent Warriors & Turok-Han cheered.

 

******

 

City Hall, Sunnydale, California

 

Marcus exits City Hall and addresses all of those gathered.

 

“We end The Serpent Family today! Prepare yourselves!”

 

The soldiers & demons cheered.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

It was 10am when most of the occupants came downstairs, the only ones missing were Buffy, Spike, Faith & Lawson.

 

“Where are they?” Giles asked confused.

 

“I Think Buffy & Spike are talking about what might happen. From Buffy’s dream we only know for definite she & Spike survive. She told us what Salazar said, that she, Spike & their friends stopped him. The only two that were mentioned surviving are them. The ‘Friends’ part could be referring to two other survivors for all we know.” Hornet responds grimly.

 

Everyone let that sink in, then Angelus frowns, “Where are Faith & Lawson?”

 

“I think Faith wants to confess her feelings to him without an audience. She doesn’t want to wait until after, it could be too late by then.”

 

They all understood that, especially Doyle, who was currently thinking about Cordelia.

 

Hornet put a comforting hand on his shoulder, “She knew mate. I’m sorry you two never had the chance to get anywhere. She loved you too, it was pretty obvious. She was waiting for you to say it first though. But I want you to remember one thing, in the supernatural world, death isn’t always goodbye.”

 

“Thank you, I just wish I had the guts to tell her before it was too late.” He said with tears in his eyes.

 

“I get that fear believe me. I’m not usually scared of much, but telling my now wife I loved her was bloody terrifying.” He sits down next to him with a sigh, “There’s one thing I stick to in this line of work. That’s be with who you want to be with, anyone could die at anytime, and wasting your life being with someone you don’t actually want to be with never ends well.”

 

“That’s actually good advice. How come you chose to marry a slayer?”

 

“D.U.S.T. members don’t date humans. That’s the first person our enemies will go after if they can’t get us. So we date people who can take care of themselves, don’t get me wrong there are humans who can, but our usual enemies are a lot worse than just a random vampire or demon. For example one of The Masters of Evil known as Madexius makes humans go insane just by laying their eyes on him. We’ve found a way to stop that happening of course. But it’s not exactly easy counteracting their magical abilities.”

 

He nods, “I understand. The enemies you must have I couldn’t even comprehend. How did you meet your wife?”

 

“Allison, her names Allison.” He got a far away look on his face with a happy smile, he chuckles, “We hated each other at the start, eventually we fell in love, I took too long to tell her so she told me. We met when D.U.S.T. went to her reality on a mission. It was a long one, lasted for 4 years. We had to stop a cult of necromancers from raising an army of the dead. The problem is there was a lot more of them then we thought. They were using skeletons they reanimated as guards. Turns out Allison and her watcher Arthur were looking to stop the same thing. Me & her instantly clashed, mainly because we’re both hot-headed, and easy to piss off. After working in close quarters we eventually realised there was an attraction, that we both ignored, at least for awhile. I instantly recognised the similarities between us and Buffy & Spike. Anyway after about a year we basically loved each other, but were too scared to tell the other. Until she grew the balls and did it. We were together 3 years before I asked her to marry me. She said yes then one year later we were married. I don’t regret a second of it.”

 

“How’s she handle you being in D.U.S.T. and away all the time? If that was William, I wouldn’t be able to stand it.” Anne asked intrigued. It turns out they had an audience.

 

“Fine. Especially with her being In D.U.S.T. too. We obviously miss each other when apart for a long time. But usually if it’s a long mission she usually comes with me.”

 

They all carried on asking him questions.

 

Up in Buffy & Spike’s room they were doing just what Hornet thought they were.

 

“I’m scared Spike.” She whispers as she hugs him tightly.

 

“Of what sweetheart?” He asked concerned.

 

“The final fight. I know we win but the only ones I know survive are us, in my dream Salazar said me, you and our friends stopped him. But he never said who, for all I know most of them could die. Too many people have died already Spike. I’m not sure how many more deaths I can handle.”

 

He kisses the top of her head, “I know baby. I’m scared of the outcome too.”

 

“You are?” She looks up at him with wide eyes.

 

“Yeah I am. Bloody terrified actually. In all my years I’ve never dealt with anything like this before.”

 

“Me neither. I think we should take them up on their offer after this is over.”

 

He frowns, “What offer?”

 

“Don’t you remember? When Sirrus said I could be a D.U.S.T. free agent?”

 

“Yeah now you mention it. When we first came to the safehouse.”

 

“Yeah, we’ll get paid for keeping The Hellmouth safe, and bonus we could always call in help if we need it.”

 

“Yeah that’s a good idea. It also has other benefits, from what I’ve heard anyway.”

 

“like what?”

 

“They pay your bills & taxes for you, you get health insurance and special disinvites get put on the house. Nothing can enter without an invite, not even humans. Plus I won’t need an invite anymore, to anywhere.” He frowns, “There’s more but I can’t remember them off the top of my head.”

 

“Really? Why won’t you need an invite to anyone’s house anymore?”

 

“Well put it this way, say I’m walking past someone’s house and I hear them scream, I couldn’t really do anything being a vampire without an invite. So vampire members of D.U.S.T. don’t require them. It’s only used when the occupants in danger obviously.”

 

“Yeah that makes sense. Like how the police burst in when they hear screaming.”

 

“Yeah basically.”

 

“I would have asked Faith, but with her being a criminal they might not let her.”

 

He chuckles, “You’ve nothing to worry about with that. Don’t you remember when Bedlam said D.U.S.T. dark squad was made for dark & ex-evil members?”

 

“Oh yeah. So she could totally join too.”

 

“Yeah she could.”

 

“OK. We should get downstairs.” She looks him in the eyes, “I love you.” Then she kisses him.

 

After they break apart he smiles at her, “I love you too.”

 

They begin getting ready.

 

In Faith’s room she was pacing while Lawson was looking at her confused, he was wondering why she pulled him in here.

 

“Are you OK?” He asked concerned.

 

“Yeah fine just extremely nervous.”

 

“Over what?”

 

“Over your reaction.”

 

He looks at her cautiously, “Reaction to what?”

 

“When I tell you I love you!” She blurted out then blushes and looks down expecting him to laugh.

 

“Faith?” She looks through her lashes at him, he smiles at her, “I know it’s only been a few days, but I love you too. It feels like I’ve met the woman I was always supposed to be with.”

 

She looked at him hopeful, “Really? You do?”

 

“Yeah, and don’t forget Sirrus said we belong together. So it makes sense we can fall in love so fast.”

 

She has a beaming smile as she runs over and hugs him, “Thank God! I was so worried you would laugh at me.”

 

He hugs her back, “Me too. That’s why I never said anything.”

 

She pulls back with a serious look on her face, “You better survive this. I don’t want to lose you.”

 

“I’m not planning on dusting anytime soon.”

 

“Good.” She pulls him into a kiss, after the kiss she pulls back, “We should get downstairs, we don’t want to miss anything.”

 

He nods and they both make their way out of her room and head downstairs.

 

Everyone sees them holding hands when they enter the room, Sirrus smiles at their happy looks. ‘I need to make sure they survive this. They’ve just found each other.’ He looks down, ‘I don’t want them to lose each other like I lost my wife.’ He pushes away his thoughts, “Glad you could join us.” He said amused.

 

Lawson chuckles, “Glad to be here.”

 

“Good.” He pushes away from the wall, “We checked the footage from last night and found nothing. We know The Serpents & Hamilton are getting ready for battle, but other than that nothing new.”

 

Lawson frowns, “Not even at the high school?”

 

“No not there either. But Salazar wouldn’t leave The Hellmouth unguarded, so we’re in the dark until something happens.”

 

He nods then sits down on the couch and Faith sits next to him.

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

Salazar, Solomon & Stygian watched as the minions ran around getting everything ready.

 

Salazar chuckles, “I don’t know about you, but I’m looking forward to this fight.”

 

“Yes, so am I. It might even be a challenge.” Stygian said amused.

 

Solomon smirks, “Me too. It’ll be the end of Hamilton.”

 

******

 

City Hall, Sunnydale, California

 

Marcus watched as his army prepared themselves for battle.

 

“This is the end Salazar.” He said to himself with a smirk.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

They were all sitting around when Sirrus’s watch started to beep.

 

Sirrus, Arkillius, Hornet & Bedlam glanced at each other.

 

Sirrus sighs, “I’ll be back soon.”

 

Everyone watched as he opened a portal and stepped through.

 

******

 

The Headquarters of The Council of Creation

 

Sirrus steps out of a portal and looks at 5 beings sitting around a table.

 

“Sirrus. How do you explain yourself? The law on slayers was classified for a reason.” One of the beings said disapprovingly.

 

“With all due respect I never wanted to keep that classified to begin with. I was only following your orders. I understand why, believe me I do. The evil that could use that information against slayers reaches far and wide.”

 

“Obviously you don’t. You’re not the human government Sirrus. There’s an order to things, a reason they’re classified.” Another being said disappointed.

 

“With all due respect again, you’re not the ones out there dealing with it. You don’t meet them and get to know them. Buffy is needed to stop The First Evil, she deserves to know the truth. Sineya already gave me the riot act.”

 

One of the female beings spoke, “I trust in Sirrus’s judgement. He’s never let us down before.”

 

The first male being sighs, “I’m well aware of that. But there’s a first time for everything.”

 

Sirrus interrupts, “D.U.S.T. were created to stop evil, of any kind.”

 

“Is that meant to be a threat Sirrus?”

 

“Not yet. You even keep me in the dark on things. There’s certain members of this council I trust. Just remember, if you turn out to be corrupt. We’re coming for you too.”

 

“Yes you’ve told us this before. I’m well aware D.U.S.T. only answers to you, but we were the one’s that made it possible for them to exist in the first place.”

 

“You only made it possible in the first place because we had a common enemy. Once he was defeated you lost interest in the other evils out there. That made me suspicious of you specifically. The others actually still care about evil being fought, and let’s not forget, you’re not my bosses.”

 

The other four beings hid smiles at the look of rage on the first beings face.

 

“I’m trying to stop evil taking over completely! And I’m aware we aren’t your bosses.”

 

“If that was true you wouldn’t keep D.U.S.T. in the dark, and act like you control me.”

 

“I agree with Sirrus.” One of the other males stated, “You even keep the rest of us in the dark on certain things.”

 

“There’s reasons for that.”

 

Sirrus interrupts again, “Well I hope you eventually let everyone else in on them. I don’t appreciate my laws having to be classified and then being kept in the dark on why. If it wasn’t for Sineya I never would have found out.”

 

“I ordered you to make that part of the law classified so events that were meant to happen would.”

 

“I get that. But the only reason I went along with it was because of the suicides it caused.”

 

“Thank you Sirrus.” One of the female beings said sincerely, “You’ve gave the other members of the council something to think about. Head on back and stop Salazar.”

 

He nods then turns and exits through another portal.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

Sirrus exited the portal to everyone looking at him questioningly.

 

“What’s happening?” Buffy asked curiously.

 

“Nothing. The Council of Creation wanted a word.”

 

“You guys answer to them?” She asked in disbelief.

 

Hornet snorts, “No. The Council of Creation are Sirrus’s bosses not ours. We only answer to Sirrus.”

 

“Who are they?”

 

Sirrus sighs, “Like a much bigger version of The Powers That Be. Only I’m sure one of them Is corrupt, I just can’t prove it.”

 

Hornet raises an eyebrow, “So he’s being a wanker again.”

 

“Yeah, and it also turns out he’s keeping the other council members in the dark.”

 

Bedlam frowns, “That sounds suspicious.”

 

“I told him to his face I found him suspicious. It looks like the other members will be investigating him though.”

 

“How come you have a boss?” Spike asked curiously.

 

“A very very long time ago they helped me get D.U.S.T. up and running. We had a common enemy at the time. They're similar to seers and can tell when important events will happen. I trust the other four members, but not the other one. Anyway they're not really my bosses, they were just right a lot in the past and I eventually started running stuff by them. So I basically started listening to their advice. But I stopped trusting one of them awhile back.”

 

Everyone let that sink in.

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

“It’s time Let’s go!” Salazar commanded. Him, Solomon, Stygian & Kralik led the way with The Serpent Warriors, minions and about 50 of the Turok-Han.

 

******

 

City Hall, Sunnydale, California

 

Marcus exited city hall, “Let’s end this!”

 

He begins walking down the street with his soldiers & demons following behind.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

The alarm sounding brought their attention to the screen. They saw both armies stood facing each other.

 

“It’s about to start.” Hornet said after he took a seat.

 

******

 

Downtown, Sunnydale, California

 

“It’s time to end this Salazar!”

 

“Not just yet! You’ve brought giants! It’s only fair we do the same!”

 

Salazar, Solomon & Stygian combine their powers and open a huge portal, 5 Serpent Beasts slithered out and bigger versions of The Serpent Warriors.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

“What are they?” Anne asked shocked.

 

“Serpent Behemoths.” Sirrus said grimly. “I hope Hamilton’s forces take out them and The Serpent Beasts. We definitely don’t want to fight them.”

 

*******

 

Downtown, Sunnydale, California

 

“Let’s finish this!” Salazar shouted and both armies charged each other.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

They watched as both armies charged each other, all thinking one thing. ‘After this battle it’s our turn.’

 

They watched as they collide and the battle begins.

Notes:

The Senior Partners have been sealed out of this reality, Hamilton has an army of demons, Sirrus has a dream including the first slayer, The Council of Creation wanted words, Buffy & Spike are considering joining D.U.S.T. as free agents, and the battle began.

Like all the other chapters, this is all done by me. Let me know what you think.

Chapter 16: Chapter 16 - The Battle

Notes:

Another short one.

The battle between The Serpents & Hamilton finally ends.

This chapter switches between 3 different scenes, that’s why some locations aren't marked.

More allies side with Buffy to stop Salazar.

Characters updated with this chapter.

Downtown, Sunnydale, California

 

They clash and the battle begins, most of the giant demons are currently fighting The Serpent Beasts and The Serpent Behemoths. The Turok-Han & Serpent Warriors swarm the soldiers and demons, and in the middle of all that Stygian’s taking on Hamilton.

 

“So you’re the little reject that thinks he can stop us?” Stygian asked tauntingly.

 

“Stop you? Maybe not. But I’m sure as hell going to try.”

 

“That’s the spirit! Let’s end this Hamilton.”

 

“Looking forward to it.”

 

They attack each other, Hamilton soon learns that Stygian’s a lot stronger than Salazar & Solomon. Punches, kicks, headbutts connected, but Stygian was moving incredibly well. Marcus was handling himself pretty well though.

 

Salazar was in the process of fighting some demons, after flipping over one demons head he grabbed it from behind and broke it’s neck. He gets impaled from behind by a sword, much to his annoyance. His eyes turn black and green electricity started coming off of him, he reaches behind himself and pulls the sword out, then uses it to decapitate the demon. One of the giant demons used its sword, with a downward slash it aims directly for Salazar.

 

But to everyone’s amazement he catches the huge blade in one hand. Salazar raises an eyebrow at the giant, “Please tell me you can do better than that?” His voice got deeper the more he spoke as glowing green veins appeared on his hands and face. He proceeds to pull the sword making the demon fall towards him as it lost its grip. After it topples forward Salazar takes hold of the handle of the huge sword, with a spin he decapitates the giant on it’s way down, resulting in a huge headless body crashing to the street. Its head landed on a group of the demons instantly crushing them.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

“Holy crap!” Buffy exclaims, “He just caught a giants sword then used the same sword to kill it. He seems to get more dangerous the more I see.”

 

“That’s Salazar for you. He never let’s you know everything at once.” Arkillius said with a shrug.

 

******

 

Solomon was in the middle of fighting his own set of demons. He looks over his shoulder and sees The Turok-Han ripping out the soldiers throats. He laughs and gets back into the fight.

 

Stygian & Hamilton were still fighting in the middle. Hamilton punches him in the face making him stumble.

 

He rights himself then wipes his lip, “Well look at that.” He shows his hand, “You’ve made me bleed you overgrown judgement jockey. You’re better than I thought you were I’ll give you that. But it makes no difference.”

 

“You’re damn right it doesn’t. You locked out The Senior Partners. That’s something else I’ll end you for.”

 

“Well then, what are we waiting for?”

 

They charge at each other again, Stygian elbows Marcus in the face then followed it up with a tornado kick that connected with the side of his jaw. Marcus grabs him by the throat and slams him down on the hood of a nearby car, causing the alarm to go off. Stygian punches him in the side of the face which caused Marcus to release him, he then stands up on the hood of the car, he flips off making both his feet strike Marcus in the face on their downward descent, he lands after making Marcus stumble.

 

Marcus punches him in the chest knocking him back a couple of feet, then without waiting grabs him and knees him in the side of his ribs, he follows up with a backhand then headbutt making Stygian stumble.

 

He straightens up his tie, “You’re just as annoying as your son. I think it’s time I step this up some.” With that he withdraws a glowing red crystal and crushed it in his hand. Red energy starts enveloping Marcus, after it ends he looks at Stygian with red eyes. “Now it’s time to finish this.” His voice is much deeper than before.

 

Stygian’s eyes turn black, “Gladly.” His voice was just as deep.

 

******

 

“What the hell?” Anne exclaims shocked, “What’s Hamilton just done?”

 

Lindsey looks at the screen in disbelief, “It’s a power crystal, It can give you a huge boost in strength. For a price. They’re extremely dangerous and no one in their right minds would use one.”

 

“Hamilton knows he’s going to die. But he’s planning on causing some serious damage first.” Sirrus said with realisation.

 

Hornet interrupts, “Look. Movement at the school.”

 

They all looked at the other screen and sure enough there was movement, Serpent Warriors & Turok-Han left the high school grounds and headed towards the fight downtown.

 

“Bedlam take Hornet wit...” Angel interrupts Sirrus before he can finish the sentence.

 

“And me.” He walks over, “I’m going too, I’ve been here too long and need to get out for a bit.”

 

Sirrus nods, “OK, Bedlam take Hornet & Angel with you. Find a way to stop them getting more Turok-Han.”

 

Bedlam nods and takes hold of both Hornet & Angel, then teleports out the room.

 

******

 

Marcus punches Stygian sending him flying back.

 

Stygian stands up, “That crystal turned you into a strong son of a bitch. I think I’m going to need more strength myself.” With that glowing green veins appeared on his face and hands. “Let’s see what you’ve got now.” His voice now sounded demonic with how deep it was.

 

They ran at each other and each threw a punch, both fists collided with each other causing a huge shock wave, they both seem to have advanced in speed as some of the hits are thrown faster than the eye can see.

 

One of the Serpent Behemoths & demon giants were grappling each other. The Behemoth punches the giant making it topple onto a nearby building completely destroying it.

 

Salazar was currently looking around at the sea of demon bodies around him. “I’m extremely disappointed. I was expecting better.” He pulls out a cigarette and lights it. “Oh well, I’m sure your friends will be a better challenge.” He takes a drag and exhales, “Until they’re worm food like you.” He takes a couple more drags of the cigarette, then puts it out on the giant he’s currently sitting on, He jumps off. “Cheers for the seat.” Then heads off in the direction of more demons, “You! Bring it.” He said to another group of demons that consisted of at least 70.

 

The demons smirk and approach. He rolls his eyes, then the fights on again.

 

Solomon & Kralik were in the middle of fighting their own group of demons. Bodies from both sides were littering the streets, a Serpent Beast had wrapped itself around a giant and was currently squeezing it to death.

 

A Behemoth grabs a demons head and crushes it, then stomps its foot down on some smaller demons attacking its legs.

 

******

 

Sunnydale High, California

 

Bedlam, Hornet & Angel teleported in and found themselves in one of the hallways.

 

“The library’s this way.” Angel pointed and began walking down the hall. “We’ll find the Hellmouth underneath it.”

 

Bedlam & Hornet nod and begin following him.

 

As they begin walking however, some of Salazar’s minions popped out the shadows and began attacking them. They split off and began fighting.

 

Angel took on some vampires with ease, Hornet took on some polgara demons, and to Bedlam’s shock he had to fight some Glarghk Guhl Kashmas’niks.

 

******

 

They were looking back and forth between both screens.

 

“Bloody hell! He’s fighting Glarghk Guhl Kashmas’niks.” Spike said shocked.

 

“How in the world is Salazar able to control them?” Giles asked incredulously.

 

“He can get anything working for him. That’s the problem.” Arkillius said matter-of-factly.

 

“What are....they? I’m not even trying to pronounce whatever Spike’s just said.” Buffy asked confused.

 

Sirrus chuckles at what she said, “Glarghk Guhl Kashmas’niks are an extremely dangerous species of demon. They have a toxin in their skewers that affects the mind. It’s extremely rare to see one amongst humans and the toxin doesn’t actually work how people think it does.”

 

“How does it work? The Watchers Council were under the impression it makes people hallucinate. Is that not the case?” Giles asked intrigued.

 

“No its not. I can see why people think that though. However what the toxin actually does is lower the walls between realities to the person effected by it. What most people looking on see as hallucinations & insanity, is actually two of the same persons conscience switching places and obviously confusing them. You see it mostly jumps people between a reality where monsters exist and one where they don’t. They mainly do this to cause the victim to go insane. This multiverse has realities where no monsters exist, they’re just extremely low compared to the realities that do have them.”

 

“Fascinating.” Wesley said as he began to write it down.

 

******

 

Stygian headbutted Marcus with some force making his head snap back.

 

Marcus backhanded him in return, then kicks him in the side of the leg making Stygian fall to one knee, Marcus then uppercuts him hard enough for him to leave the ground.

 

Stygian lands on his feet and punches Marcus knocking him back, he follows up with a fireball which hit its target.

 

Salazar’s currently got some swords levitating and spinning around him like a shield, one of the demons tried to strike him only for one of the swords to block it and begin striking back as if it was alive. He turns to a giant heading towards him and holds out a hand, the swords straighten and shoot towards it, impaling it all over its body, the final sword impales its head killing it, its corpse topples onto some buildings causing them to crumble under its weight.

 

******

 

“Okay, that was cool.” Gunn admitted like it physically pained him to do so.

 

“Got to agree with you there.” Angelus said with a nod.

 

“This is crazy!” Buffy exclaims, “What are we supposed to do after this ends?” some of the buildings are destroyed.”

 

“D.U.S.T.’s got a type of clean-up crew. They go around fixing as much damage as they can after a situation is dealt with.” Arkillius informed them.

 

“Oh that’s good then.”

 

******

 

Angel had dealt with the vampires, Hornet finished off the polgara demons, and Bedlam just killed the last Glarghk Guhl Kashmas’nik.

 

“Come on before more show up.” Bedlam said and headed into the library.

 

They both nod and follow him, once inside they look down at the Hellmouth, the seal seemed to be being kept open by a magical force.

 

Angel frowns, “I don’t get it. If The Hellmouths open why aren’t the rest of the Turok-Han coming out?”

 

“Salazar’s more than likely ordered them to stay put until he says otherwise.” Hornet said while looking at the open seal.

 

Bedlam pulls out a glowing cube out of his pocket, he looks at it then back towards the Hellmouth.

 

“Get out, I’m ending this.”

 

Hornet looks at him incredulously, “Are you insane! That cube of light requires you to go into the Hellmouth! You might not come out.” The last bit was said like he was struggling not to cry.

 

“I know. But even If we close the Hellmouth, the Turok-Han are still down there. This cube of light will kill all of them.”

 

******

 

“No.” Arkillius whispers, “He can’t die.”

 

Everyone was watching the screen showing the school wide eyed.

 

“He’s going to sacrifice himself isn’t he?” Buffy asked with a tremor in her voice.

 

“That’s his plan.” Sirrus responded with pain in his voice.

 

“But he can’t!” Dawn exclaims upset, “We’ve lost enough people.”

 

******

 

“Believe me Hornet, It’s the only way to stop them.” Bedlam says reassuringly.

 

“I was never expecting you to die.”

 

“I know. But look on the bright side, there’s a chance I survive this.”

 

Angel watched the scene play out in front of him, then he got a determined look on his face and walked over.

 

“Give it to me. I’ll end this.”

 

Bedlam looks at him shocked, “No! You definitely won’t survive this. It’s sunlight Angel.”

 

He nods, “I know. I need to make up for all my past evil.”

 

“You’ve been doing that.” Hornet said trying to make him reconsider.

 

“Yeah I have. One last heroic action. I knew deep down when this whole thing started.”

 

“Knew what?” Bedlam asked confused.

 

“That this was my last mission. That I wouldn’t be leaving Sunnydale once I arrived. It’s like something kept telling me....this is where I die.”

 

******

 

“No.” Wesley was watching the screen completely pale at Angel’s words.

 

“Did he tell any of you? That he knew he was going to die?” Gunn asked incredulously

 

They all shook their heads no.

 

******

 

Bedlam looks at him intently, “Are you sure?”

 

He nods, “I have a feeling, even though I’m about to die, that this isn’t the end for me.”

 

Bedlam puts his hand on his shoulder and passes him the cube, “You need to smash it on the ground once inside. That will activate it. Goodbye Angel.”

 

Angel nods, “Goodbye. Tell the others the same for me won’t you?”

 

“Yeah, I promise.”

 

Hornet steps forward and shakes his hand, “It was a pleasure working with you. You’re not as bad as other versions we’ve met.”

 

“Thank you.” He walks over to the open Hellmouth and enters the seal.

 

******

 

The Hellmouth, Sunnydale, California

 

Angel steps towards the edge looking over the waves of Turok-Han gathered below. They spot him and start running towards him.

 

He smirks, “Come and get me!”

 

The Turok-Han start scaling the walls to get up to him, he raises his hand with the cube then throws it on the ground causing it to shatter.

 

Light fills the cavern dusting all the Turok-Han, the last thing anyone looking on would have seen of Angel would have been his smirk as he disintegrated.

 

******

 

“Angel’s gone.” Buffy said in disbelief.

 

They were all in shock, the second it ended though the tears came. Most of the occupants were crying.

 

Bedlam & Hornet teleported back into the room.

 

Spike felt the pain of his grandsire dusting, “Oh God! I know he was a wanker before being cursed and even after it to some degree. But I never thought he’d dust.”

 

“What did he mean? When he said he had a feeling it wasn’t the end?” Doyle asked hopeful.

 

Sirrus was still looking at the screen, “In the supernatural world it never really is. But I think he meant that at some point he could return. It could be years if it happens though.”

 

“So Angel could come back?” Fred asked hopeful.

 

“He could. With the amount of resurrections we’ve seen in the past I’m not ruling it out. But it could be a very long time before it happens, it’s possible most of you will be long gone by then.”

 

Bedlam grabs a bottle of scotch and pours himself a glass, “He wanted me to tell you all goodbye from him. I know you probably seen it happen on the screen, but I promised I would.” He then downs the filled glass.

 

They all nodded and thanked him. Then their attention was drawn back to the other screen.

 

******

 

Salazar, Solomon & Stygian watched as light emitted from the direction of the school.

 

They were in a rage, “You Wanker.” Stygian said through clenched teeth, “The slayer and her friends have just used a cube of light on the rest of the Turok-Han! You kept us distracted! I’m through playing!” with that the 3 Serpents raised one hand each to the sky and lightning came from the sky and hit all 3 of them. aside from the glowing green veins, black eyes and electricity coming off them, they now seem to have a black mist swirling around their feet & lower legs. “Time to die Hamilton.” His voice sounded fully demonic by this point.

 

Hamilton stepped forward ready to fight, but it appeared Stygian was through playing as he moved at unbelievable speeds and punched his hand through his chest, after he removed it he had Hamilton’s still beating heart in his grasp. Hamilton looked at it wide eyed then dropped to the ground dead as Stygian crushed it.

 

The 3 of them look around the damage and all the bodies, some of Hamilton’s demons were still alive, but with a twist of his hand Salazar magically broke all their necks at the same time. All the Serpent Beasts & Behemoths were dead too.

 

“We need time to recuperate. Then it’s the war with the slayer.” Salazar said matter-of-factly.

 

The others nod and make their way back to the Stronghold, with the last remaining Serpent Warriors, Turok-Han & Kralik following along.

 

******

 

“What the hell did I just see?!” Lindsey asked incredulously, “Stygian ripped Hamilton’s heart out!”

 

“That’s because he was pissed off. You might not think it but it takes a lot to make The Serpent Family actually angry with you.” Sirrus informed them.

 

“It’s the war. It’s our turn next.” Buffy said determined.

 

“Yeah it is.” Spike said just as determined.

 

******

 

Throne Room, Arashmaharr

 

D’Hoffryn was watching the battle between The Serpents & Hamilton, when it ended he got a determined look on his face.

 

“Gather weapons. We’re going to war.”

 

Halfrek stepped forward, “Are you sure? It’s not our fight.”

 

“Don’t question me Halfrek. I’ve seen what happens if the Serpents win. Then it will be everyone’s war.”

 

“I understand they’re dangerous, but working with the slayer?”

 

“Sometimes sacrifices like that are required. The Serpents cannot be allowed to win. We will help the slayer & D.U.S.T. stop them, and that’s final.”

 

The demons nodded and began getting ready for war.

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

They entered the Stronghold with the remaining Serpent Warriors & Turok-Han

.

“Everyone have a rest. Soon we fight the slayer.”

 

The minions, Serpent Warriors & Turok-Han that stayed behind cheered.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

They were all talking when D’Hoffryn teleported in the room.

 

“Greetings.”

 

Sirrus nods in acknowledgement, “D’Hoffryn. What is it?”

 

“Me & my demons will join you in defeating The Serpents.”

 

Everyone’s eyes widened at that, “What’s in it for you? I know you’re not doing this out of the goodness of your heart.” Sirrus asked curiously.

 

“No I can’t say that I am. I’ve seen what happens if they win Sirrus, and it’s not good. Salazar kills me.”

 

“So, you want a truce?”

 

“Yes. I’ve seen all manner of outcomes to this war. The only good one Is where you win.”

 

Anya looks scared at that, “Only one good outcome? What happens in the others?"

 

“Believe me Anyanka you’d rather not know.”

 

“Thank you in advance for your assistance D’Hoffryn.” Sirrus said sincerely.

 

“You’re welcome Sirrus.” He’s about to teleport away but stops, “Oh and one more thing, other heroes are coming to aid you in the war.” With that he teleports out of the room.

 

Before anyone could wonder what he meant by that Sirrus’s phone rang.

 

He takes it out and answers it, “Yeah?” He listens, “Good job. I’ll need a clean up crew once this is over.” He listens again, “OK thanks.” He hangs up the phone.

 

He turns to address everyone, “That was Antinin. The denial demons dead.”

 

“That’s good. It means we can get rid of Salazar and the others now.” Anne said with determination.

 

“Yeah we can, but I think we need to make a grave for Angel first.” Sirrus responded.

 

“How he’s dust?” Buffy asked sadly.

 

“We could fill a coffin full of rocks. That way there’s something there.” Ethan suggests.

 

“It’s the best option we have.” Sirrus said with a nod.

 

They nod then Hornet & Arkillius grab some shovels and head outside.

 

The rest follow on behind them, when Hornet & Arkillius reached the other graves they begin digging another one.

 

Bedlam makes a coffin and everyone else start collecting rocks from the nearby landscape.

 

After ten minutes the coffin was full, they were just waiting on Arkillius & Hornet to finish digging.

 

“That’s 5 of us gone.” Buffy said dejected.

 

“I know. Honestly I’d have been more surprised if we all went against Salazar and no one died.” Bedlam said while waiting for the grave to be dug.

 

Wesley sighs sadly, “I honestly thought Angel would out live me. I hope we don’t lose anyone else.”

 

“Me too.” Anne said mournfully.

 

“We need to end this.” Doyle said determined.

 

“We will. The demons gone now.” Gunn said with his own determination.

 

“Salazar’s going to let his forces rest up before our fight. We have time before it’s our turn.” Sirrus informs them.

 

They all nod as Arkillius & Hornet come to stand beside them, Bedlam noticing they’re finished levitates the coffin and lowers it into the hole.

 

Once that was done Arkillius & Hornet began filling it back in.

 

“What are we supposed to do after? L.A.’s got no one there anymore.” Fred asked sorrowfully.

 

“You could stay in Sunnydale. You could help us.” Buffy offered them.

 

“That’s fine with me.” Gunn said with a shrug, “A Hellmouths bound to attract more demons & vamps to deal with.”

 

“Yes I believe that would suffice. We’ll discuss it more once the threat is dealt with.” Wesley said thankful.

 

Buffy nods, “Yeah that’s fine.”

 

“It might be best.” Hornet said from where he was filling the grave in. “I was listening to radio chatter last night before I went to sleep, according to the CDC they’ve told everyone unstable & life threatening chemicals are leaking into Los Angeles from underground. They’ve called Los Angeles a uninhabitable dead zone. Its been abandoned.”

 

“So they’re just leaving it like that?” Kate asked incredulously.

 

“There’s not much they can do. If all the Voidian Husks haven’t been cleared out of Los Angeles it will be deadly to live there. Some D.U.S.T. soldiers are still searching but the problem is Husks breed incredibly fast. All it takes is two surviving and the city will be over run again, probably by the end of the week, 2 if you’re lucky.”

 

Giles started cleaning his glasses, “That’s extremely fast.”

 

He shrugs, “Time has no meaning in the void. So to them it’s normal.”

 

“How can you be sure they won’t leave the city if some have survived?”

 

“The soldiers will put special wards in the city before they leave. They’ll work the same as the force field and stop any remaining Husks leaving the confines of the city.”

 

He sighs relieved, “Thank goodness, I was worried there for a moment.”

 

Hornet nods then when the grave is filled they step back.

 

Bedlam makes a headstone that reads, ‘Liam ‘Angel’ O’Connor. Beloved Friend. He Died A Hero. He Will Be Missed.’

 

Buffy steps towards the grave, “Goodbye Angel...and thank you.”

 

Spike steps towards her and pulls her into a hug, “It’s OK sweetheart. We’ll never forget him, or his sacrifice.” His words cause Buffy to begin sobbing against him as she hugs him tightly.

 

Anne’s eyes begin tearing up, which makes William pull her into a hug as she begins sobbing too.

 

Faith had silent tears running down her cheeks as she clung to Lawson’s hand.

 

The A.I. crew were also in tears, everyone else just stood silently, not really knowing what to say.

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

They were watching a magical replay of what happened at the Hellmouth.

 

They watched as Hornet, Bedlam & Angel fought their minions, they watched as they approached the Hellmouth, they watched as Bedlam pulled out a cube of light, and they finally watched as Angel took it.

 

Then they watched the scene changed to inside the Hellmouth, Angel was stood in the cavern as the Turok-Han charged him. Then watched as Angel smashed the cube and smirked as he dusted along with the Turok-Han.

 

“So that’s how it happened.” Salazar said irritated, “At least they lost one of theirs as well.”

 

“That fucked up child virginity snatchers just fucked our army up. If he hadn’t dusted himself I would have.” Stygian said angrily while pacing.

 

“We’ll soon end them I can assure you of that.” Solomon said annoyed.

 

“Too bloody right we will.”

 

******

 

Downtown, Sunnydale, California

 

A car pulled up and the four occupants exited, “What the bloody hell happened here?” One of the males said incredulously.

 

They all looked at the demon bodies littering the streets.

 

“God knows. You don’t think we’re too late do you?” The other male asked curiously.

 

“That’s not a problem my pretties.” They all span around to see a woman dressed in a long white dress. “Those nasty Serpents are still here. We must go to the others.” She took of down the street.

 

He shrugs, “She may seem batshit but she obviously knows what’s going on.”

 

The other 3 nod and they begin following her.

 

They find her stood near the entrance to and alley, “You won’t find the Serpents there.” She said to the alley.

 

Another man steps out, “Evils afoot and needs to be stopped. Where may I find these Serpents you speak of?”

 

“Follow me. The other heroes don’t want to be kept waiting.” She begins humming as she sways side to side down the street.

 

The other four step up beside him, “Don’t ask. She apparently knows where we’re going.”

 

The newcomer just nods and follows along.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

It was 2pm when they all came back inside.

 

“Bloody hell. A lots happened to say it’s only 2pm.” Spike said shocked.

 

Sirrus nods, “I know. I honestly think the next time we sleep this fight with Salazar will be over.”

 

Anne’s eyes widened, “You seriously think it’ll all happen today?”

 

“Yeah I do. Knowing Salazar it’ll probably be about 11pm when he decides to finish this.”

 

Buffy looked thoughtful, “So if it’s happening tonight who are these other heroes that are supposedly coming?”

 

“I think that’s us.” They all turned to the doorway and their eyes widened at the 6 newcomers. Drusilla, The Groosalugg and two familiar looking men & two unknown women. When Spike spoke they remembered the men from the footage Bedlam showed them.

 

“Wallace? Winston?” He asked hopeful.

 

They both smirk, “Hello little brother.” They said in unison.

 

Everyone was left speechless.

Notes:

Hamilton’s dead, Angel sacrificed himself, and D’Hoffryn, Drusilla, The Groosalugg, Wallace, Winston & two females unknown as of yet arrived to help.

Like All the other chapters, this is all done by me. Let me know what you think.

Chapter 17: Chapter 17 - The Calm Before The Storm Pt.1

Notes:

Extremely short chapter, Pt. 2 will be the same.

More information revealed as the newcomers get brought up to speed.

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

Spike stands up and approaches them, “Oh God! I thought you were both dead.” He hugs them both.

 

Wallace & Winston hug him back, “Same here William.” Winston said relieved.

 

He steps back, “You’re best calling me Spike. Don’t want to get me mixed up with him.” He points to William who was still staring at them in complete shock.

 

Wallace & Winston's eyes widened, “What the bloody hells going on?” Wallace asked incredulously.

 

Spike explains how William came about leaving them nodding their understanding.

 

Spike went over and fetched Buffy, “Kitten. I’d like you to meet my brothers.” He turns to them, “This is Buffy my girlfriend, she’s a slayer.”

 

Winston & Wallace shake her hand, “It’s nice to meet you. I think we need to introduce our mates.” Winston said and turned to a blonde woman behind him, “This is Abbigail, my slayer & mate.”

 

Abbigail steps forward, she’s extremely beautiful with long blonde hair and blue eyes, she’s around the same height as Buffy, “Hi, you can call me Abby for short.” She hugs Buffy then turns to Spike, “So you’re the brother I’ve heard so much about? Glad to finally meet you.” She then hugs him too.

 

“I’m glad to meet you too.” He said as he hugged her back.

 

Wallace takes the hand of a beautiful looking redhead with hazel eyes similar to Buffy’s, she was also around the same height as her. “This is Maria, my slayer & mate.”

 

She does the same and hugs Buffy & Spike, “Finally meeting the brother they kept talking about.” She said with a smile.

 

“Yeah, it’s good to meet you.” Spike responds with his own smile, He introduces his brothers to everyone else.

 

They shake everyone’s hand as they’re introduced.

 

Drusilla comes forward, “Hello my Spike.”

 

Buffy felt jealousy skyrocket at her words, “Spike’s Mine!” She snapped angrily.

 

Drusilla smiles at her, “Of course he is sunshine. That’s what I made him for.”

 

Buffy’s eyes widened, “You turned him for me?”

 

“Yes. The pixies told me to.”

 

“Spike who’s She?” Winston asked with a raised eyebrow.

 

“My sire. Hello Dru.”

 

“We came to help stop those nasty Serpents. They’ll ruin everyone’s fun. The playground will be destroyed and miss Edith will be upset.”

 

“You’ve seen what’ll happen?”

 

“Yes, the world stays in endless darkness, they’ll make this world the same as theirs.”

 

Sirrus steps forward, “That’s definitely a bad thing.”

 

“Yes it is. You did the right thing by telling them the truth. They’ll be some repercussions, but nothing you can’t handle. You’ve paved the way for a new legion of heroes. Living up to the legend you are.”

 

Sirrus looks happy at her words, “That’s a good thing.”

 

Willow raises her hand, “Umm...I don’t mean to be offensive, but why does Drusilla seem a lot less insane than the last time?”

 

Sirrus answers her without turning around, “That’s because Angel’s dust. His demon no longer has power over her.”

 

Groo’s eyes widened, “Angel’s no longer with us?”

 

“No, he sacrificed himself to stop the remaining Turok-Han in the Hellmouth.”

 

Winston sighs, “There’s Turok-Han now? That’s all we sodding need.”

 

“Some are still alive, but a majority of them Angel took with him when he died.”

 

Groo looks around the room, “Where’s the princess?”

 

Wesley stands up and walks over to him, “She was killed by Salazar. I’m sorry.”

 

Groo looked like he had the wind knocked out of him. “The princess’s dead?” He gets angry, “Who is this man you call Salazar? I shall end him for taking her life.”

 

“Salazar Serpent. A human warlock who’s extremely evil.” Sirrus informs him.

 

“Well he shall fall at my blade.”

 

“The problem there is Salazar can’t be killed. We believe some unknown entity is keeping him alive, but we’re not sure why.”

 

Wallace crossed his arms, “This the same geezer responsible for the eclipse and why Los Angeles was abandoned?”

 

“Yes. He sacrificed all of Los Angeles to find his father Stygian, which he has.”

 

“Bollocks. So if we can’t kill this wanker what are we supposed to do?” Winston asked irritated.

 

“The denial demon keeping him here’s dead, meaning we can open a portal to pull him to his home multiverse.”

 

“Well that’s something I suppose.”

 

Abby raises her hand, “Not meaning to be nosey, but what did Drusilla mean when she said you did right by telling the truth?”

 

Sirrus turns to address her, “The law where slayers can’t date humans had a classified part.”

 

“And what was that?”

 

He tells them everything he told Buffy, about slayers getting angry dating humans and killing the girls family & friends.

 

Abby & Maria's eyes widened, ”Why was that classified?” Maria asked shocked.

 

“We don’t know the reason they wanted it classified but we only originally went along with it because slayers were committing suicide. The slayer line nearly ended do to it, they were dying quicker than they could be replaced.”

 

“Who are ‘they’?”

 

“The Council of Creation and Sineya.”

 

Giles & Wesley gasped at the name, “The First Slayer wanted it classified?” Wesley asked incredulously.

 

“Yeah she wanted certain events to play out.”

 

“You mean the slayer that tried killing us all in our dreams?” Buffy asked shocked.

 

“Yeah we know about that and why she did it too.”

 

“Because she was crazy?”

 

“No. You can’t honestly tell me you haven’t figured it out yet?”

 

Buffy furrowed her brow in confusion, “Figured what out?”

 

Sirrus sighs, “The main reason she tried killing you all off is because you let your friends control you. You were dating a human because your friends told you to. She was trying to stop you snapping and killing people, that’s what she meant by slayers don’t have friends.”

 

Buffy, Willow & Giles’s eyes widened, “Of course! She was only trying to protect people from our foolishness, and of course not knowing any better, thought the only way to do so was to kill us.” Giles said dumbfounded.

 

Drusilla smiles, “It’s extremely dangerous for slayers to date humans. Especially with The Enlightened Ones here.”

 

“Fuck!” Hornet exclaims, “I didn’t know The Enlightened ones existed here too.”

 

“Who are The Enlightened Ones?” Anne asked confused.

 

Sirrus turns to her, “A secret order, they know everything, they became famous in Salazar’s multiverse for hunting down slayers that dated humans.”

 

“So they’re evil?”

 

“Not really no, that’s the problem. They only hunted down the slayers that were close to snapping, they try to stop apocalypses happening. They’re main goal is to keep the supernatural world as it’s supposed to be, if they found you dating Riley they’d have come for you for definite. The one who created it survived a slayer who snapped and killed hundreds of people, his wife & daughter were killed as well.”

 

“Oh my god, no wonder he goes after slayers dating humans.”

 

“You have to remember this specifically, they aren’t the only ones out there who hunt slayers for dating humans.”

 

“Who else does?” Abby asked curiously.

 

“Other orders, cults, demons, creatures, other humans, other slayers the list goes on.”

 

Winston leans against the wall, “OK tell us more about that later. Who are we dealing with? And it’s good to see you again Sirrus.”

 

“Likewise Winston.” He begins telling them everything.

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

“Hanson. Put the ingredients together for this.” Salazar said as he passed him a piece of paper.

 

“Right away Master Salazar.”

 

“What trick you got up your sleeve now?” Solomon asked amused.

 

“We’re finishing this war tonight. I’m making sure no one can leave town.”

 

“Using your brain again I see, I’m proud to call you my son.” Stygian said with clear pride in his voice.

 

“Thank you dad. We should prepare ourselves, Tonight it ends.”

 

Solomon & Stygian smirk in response.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

By the time Sirrus finished filling them in, Groo, Abby, Maria, Winston & Wallace were all wide eyed. Drusilla looked like she already knew, probably due to her visions.

 

Wallace sighs, “This guy’s seriously evil. We might have our work cut out for us.”

 

“Nothing to fear my pretties. The blue demons army will come in time.” Drusilla informed them with a smile.

 

Winston, Wallace, Abby, Maria & Groo looked confused at her words.

 

“D’Hoffryn’s allied himself & his demons with us against Salazar.” Sirrus explained.

 

Understanding dawned on all but Groo’s face.

 

“Who Is this D’Hoffryn you speak of?” He asked confused.

 

“The King of the vengeance demons.”

 

“I see, well he shall certainly help in the upcoming war then.”

 

They all begin chatting away, Buffy who hasn’t left Spike’s side since Drusilla referred to him has ‘Her Spike’. (which still causes her to grit her teeth in anger) pulls Spike from the room.

 

Spike looks confused, “Where are we going kitten?”

 

“I have some stuff to ask you.” She responds still pulling him down the hallway.

 

Spike looked worried when she pulls him in the kitchen.

 

She turns to face him, “Okay what gives?”

 

Spike frowns, “Excuse me?” He asked genuinely confused.

 

“When Drusilla called you ‘Her Spike’ why didn’t you correct her?” She puts her hands on her hips and starts tapping her foot.

 

Spike chuckles, “You’re jealous kitten.”

 

She glares at him, “Damn right I am. Now answer the question.”

 

“You didn’t give me chance before you informed her I was yours.” Spike smiled happily at her.

 

“Oh.” She sighs, “I’m sorry for being all possessive earlier. It’s just, she made me sooo mad.”

 

“Nothing to apologise for kitten. I’m a vampire, I like you being possessive. It’s a turn on actually.” He said with a leer & grin.

 

She blushes with a little smile, “Good to know.” She then gets a thoughtful expression on her face. “What’s mating? I’ve seen it mentioned in Giles’s books but never researched it.”

 

“Mating is like marriage for vampires. It requires me to bite you, usually during sex and say ‘Mine’ which you respond with ‘Yours’. Then you do the same to me.” Spike explained, he caught the scent of Buffy’s arousal at the mention of biting her.

 

She sees a hopeful look in Spike’s eyes as he explains it. “Will it hurt? The bite?” She asked curiously.

 

“Not if I don’t want it to no.”

 

“Good. We’ll talk about it more once Salazar’s gone.”

 

Spike looked at her with awe, “You’re serious?”

 

She smiles softly at him, “Yeah I am.” She takes his hand, “Come on let’s get back to the others.”

 

He let’s her pull him along, “I love you so much.” He said the awed look still in place.

 

She looks over her shoulder with a happy smile, “I love you so much too.”

 

They were both laughing when they re-enter the main room.

 

******

 

Throne Room, Arashmaharr

 

D’Hoffryn was watching what Salazar was up to and frowns as he sees his minions gathering the supplies for a spell.

 

“I wonder what he’s up to now.” He said as he stroked his beard thoughtfully.

 

Halfrek was watching as well, “I’m not sure. The ingredients don’t look dangerous though.”

 

“The Serpent Family could make a feather dangerous Halfrek.”

 

“So what are we going to do?”

 

“I think I need to inform our allies of this just in case.” With that he stands up and teleports out the room.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

D’Hoffryn teleports into the room, “Greetings.”

 

Sirrus turns to him, “D’Hoffryn? What’s wrong.”

 

“I've been keeping an eye on Salazar, and I thought I’d inform you he’s having his minions gather the ingredients for a spell.”

 

Everyone was looking worried at that.

 

“Do you know what kind?” Buffy asked worried.

 

“I’m afraid not. The ingredients themselves aren’t of the dangerous variety, but with Salazar casting the spell it could be.”

 

Sirrus nods, “Yeah he can make anything dangerous. Thank you for informing us D’Hoffryn.” He said sincerely.

 

“You’re welcome. I must return to Arashmaharr, I’ll inform you if Salazar does anything else.”

 

“OK thank you again.”

 

D’Hoffryn nods and teleports out the room.

 

Drusilla makes her way over to Darla, “Hello grandmummy.”

 

“Drusilla it’s good to see you again.” Darla said sincerely. “How do you feel?”

 

“I feel free. Things became clear after Angel died.” She said then hugged her.

 

Darla hugs her back, when they break apart she turns to Lawson.

 

“Hello brother.” She said with a happy smile.

 

“Drusilla.” He said with a nod of acknowledgement.

 

“Your reward will be granted after the war.”

 

Everyone looked confused at that, except Bedlam & Sirrus who looked thoughtful.

 

“What reward?” Lawson asked confused.

 

“I can’t say silly. It’ll ruin the surprise.”

 

“Okay....thanks for letting me know, I think.”

 

“All we be answered after the war.” She said then makes her way over to Buffy & Spike.

 

Buffy seeing her make her way over makes Spike sit on the couch and sits in his lap.

 

Everyone noticed what Buffy did and hid their amusement, they also noticed Anne moving William around the room to avoid Drusilla.

 

Drusilla addressed Buffy, “Nothing you can do will stop The Serpent Curse. It will happen no matter what you try, and it must.”

 

“Why? What will it do?” She asked scared.

 

“Salazar’s appearance in the other sunshines worlds will have some bad outcomes, but the good ones outweigh them.”

 

Spike frowns, “What did you see Dru?”

 

“His appearance is the reason those sunshines get with their Spikes earlier than they would do.”

 

“You’re saying Salazar being there leads to the other Buffies & Spikes getting together?” Buffy asked incredulously.

 

She smiles, “Of course sunshine. That’s what happened here isn’t it?”

 

Everyone’s eyes widened, “Oh My God! You’re right! If Salazar never came here me and Spike wouldn’t be together yet.” Buffy said shocked.

 

Sirrus steps forward, “Drusilla?” she turns to him, “What else can you tell us about it?”

 

“Not much, I know that he doesn’t cause the level of damage there he has here. But he does still cause some.”

 

He nods with a thoughtful look, “Why aren’t we there?”

 

“You’re needed in Angelus’s world. A threat he knows all too well is coming for him.”

 

Angelus looks concerned, “Who’s coming for me Dru?”

 

“I cannot say. But you know him inside and out.”

 

Angelus looked thoughtful, ‘Who could it be? I suppose I won’t know until it happens.’ “OK thanks for the heads up.”

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

“The ingredients are gathered Masters.” Hanson said as he enters the room.

 

“Good let’s begin.” Salazar said as he downs the last of his whisky, he puts the glass down and follows Hanson with Stygian & Solomon following closely behind.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

They were in the middle of a conversation when the alarm sounded. They all turned to the screen.

 

Buffy gasped at what she saw, “The dome! It’s nearly time. My slayer dream showed the dome during the war.”

 

As they watched on they see a magical dome beginning it cover Sunnydale.

 

“Looks like we know what the spell was for.” Maria said while staring at the screen.

 

Everyone else nods without taking their eyes off the screen.

 

“Salazar’s making sure no one can escape. The War will soon be upon us.”

 

Everyone watched on as the dome finished inclosing Sunnydale.

Notes:

Who's this threat that Angelus knows inside & out? How does Salazar’s appearance in the other Buffies realities lead to her & Spike being together? All will be answered in the next two stories.

Like all the other chapters, this is all done by me. Let me know what you think.

Chapter 18: Chapter 18 - The Calm Before The Storm Pt.2

Notes:

Mostly relationships being built in this chapter.

More information revealed.

Salazar & our heroes meet on the battlefield, ready for war.

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

Tara looks confused, “W-why do the s-spell? We aren’t I-in Sunnydale.”

 

“He knows. But he also knows we won’t leave him causing damage.” Arkillius explained.

 

“He only did it so we can’t escape once the war starts didn’t he?” Hank asked curiously.

 

“Yeah.”

 

Sirrus turned around with a determined look on his face, “Bedlam you should be at full strength now. I want you to stop them opening any portals themselves, we don’t need anymore Serpent Beasts or Behemoths showing up. After that fill Gunn, Kate, Doyle & Hank with our fighting knowledge, and anyone else who wants to help.”

 

Bedlam nods & begins the spell.

 

Sirrus then turns to Gunn, Kate & Hank, “Here put these on.” He throws them each a ring, “They’ll give you enhanced strength to help against Salazar’s forces.”

 

“Good. That will definitely come in handy.” Gunn commented as he put the ring on.

 

Kate nods with a determine look on her face, “We end this tonight.”

 

“Yeah we do.” Hank said as he puts his own ring on.

 

A small feeling passed through them as Bedlam finished the spell and walked over.

 

“What was that?” Darla asked him confused.

 

“Similar to what Salazar did, you could feel it because you know of the supernatural.” He explains to her.

 

She nods her understanding.

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

Salazar, Solomon & Stygian felt the same feeling, “That little wanker.” Salazar said through clenched teeth, “Bedlam’s made sure we can’t open our own sodding portals here.”

 

“He’s made sure we can’t call for more help.” Solomon said angrily while pacing.

 

Stygian crosses his arms, “It doesn’t matter, we’re Serpents. We can deal with them together.”

 

Salazar smirks, “How right you are. We still have enough soldiers to deal with them.”

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

Darla pulls on Lindsey’s hand, “Come with me, I want to talk to you.”

 

Lindsey let’s her pull him from the room and into the kitchen.

 

“I’m planning on being involved in this war.” She told him softly.

 

“No! You could die!” Lindsey said panicked.

 

“I know. But I used to be a vampire Lindsey, I know how to fight. Plus they could give me knowledge & a ring like the others. I’ve been sitting around doing nothing, I need to help in someway, and this is it.”

 

“But you might die before I could tell you.” He sounded close to tears.

 

“I’m aware you’re in love with me Lindsey.” She told him with a small smile.

 

His eyes widened, “What? How?” He asked incredulously.

 

“It was pretty obvious. I’d like to be with you, to see where we could go. If you’d like that too?”

 

“You’re serious?” She nods and he grins hugely, “Yes definitely, it’s a yes.”

 

She sighs in relief, “Thank god. That would have been awkward if you didn’t want to.”

 

“Are you kidding? Of course I want to, you shouldn’t have even doubted that I would.” He said with a happy smile.

 

She smiles back, “Come on let’s get back. I need to tell Sirrus I’m helping in the war.”

 

Lindsey reluctantly nods then takes her hand and they both head back to the main room.

 

As they enter Darla walks over to Sirrus, “I want to help against Salazar.”

 

“OK Bedlam will give you our fighting knowledge as well. I know you more than likely remember fighting as a vampire. But, it’s better safe than sorry.” He passes her a ring, “It’ll give you strength like the others.”

 

She nods, “Thank you.” She said sincerely and put on the ring.

 

Drusilla walks over to William, “Hello William. It’s good to see you.”

 

William nods his acknowledgement, “Drusilla.”

 

Anne practically plastered herself to William’s side. “Drusilla.” She said in acknowledgement, though everyone else could here the threat in her voice.

 

“Not to worry sunshine. I won’t take William from you.”

 

She scoffs, “As if you could. He’s mine.”

 

She smiles, “I’m aware of that sunshine, there’s nothing to fear.”

 

“Good. Just as long as we understand each other.”

 

Drusilla giggles, “You’re funny sunshine. I need to talk to the dark haired one now.” With that she turns and makes her way over to Faith and Lawson.

 

Anne looked at her in disbelief, “Did she just laugh at me?” She asked incredulously.

 

William chuckles, “You are extremely cute when possessive love.”

 

She pouts, “Now you’re laughing at me.”

 

“Don’t do that love.” He sighs, “Your pouting won’t always work you know.”

 

She turns to him looking through her lashes and pouts more.

 

He narrows his eyes at her, “You’re doing it on purpose.” She just keeps looking at him, “Fine you win. I’m sorry for laughing.”

 

She smiles sweetly then begins giggling, “You’re so easy.” She leans forward and kisses him.

 

“Oi! It’s not nice to play a love sick vampire.” He said in mock offence.

 

She giggles again and runs out the room with William hot on her heels.

 

Everyone watched the scene in amusement, April broke the silence though.

 

“Why is she having fun? Aren’t we about to go to war?” She asked genuinely confused.

 

Sirrus chuckles, “Yeah, but they deserve a bit of joy before the war actually happens.”

 

“Oh that makes sense.” She said with a nod.

 

Faith turns back to Drusilla, “What were you talking about? Before the love birds went to play catch?”

 

“Buffy will ask something of you. You must agree, Lawson too. It will help in the future.”

 

Faith frowns, “Okay I will.”

 

Lawson nods his agreement, “Me too.”

 

“That’s good. Everything will turn out just fine now.”

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

It was 5pm when Salazar entered the main room, “Everyone make sure you’re ready. We aren’t waiting around for some of you when it’s time for war.”

 

Stygian & Solomon were playing poker when Salazar sat at the table.

 

“Don’t worry Salazar. We’ll end their miserable lives. Personally I think they should follow Harris's lead and slit their own throats.” He sighs disappointed, “But we can’t always get what we want I suppose.”

 

“I completely agree.” Solomon said without looking up from his cards.

 

Salazar sighs, “Yes. It would be a lot simpler if they’d just die.”

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

Anne & William come back in the main room with their clothes & hair dishevelled.

 

“You two enjoy yourselves.” Winston asked with a smirk.

 

Anne blushes deeply and hides her face against William.

 

“So you two shag?” Wallace asked amused. Maria & Abby roll their eyes at him.

 

“No. We didn’t get that far.” Came Anne’s muffled reply.

 

Winston raises an eyebrow at William, “You slacking in your old age mate?”

 

He gives him the two fingered salute in response, “Sod off. We decided to wait till after like Buffy & Spike have.”

 

Wallace & Winston looked at Spike incredulously, “You sure you’re our brother?” Wallace asked in disbelief.

 

Spike chuckles and follows William’s lead with a two fingered salute of his own. “Fuck off you wanker. I’m a gentleman.”

 

Wallace & Winston break down laughing at that, “Yeah we bet you are.”

 

Spike rolls his eyes, “You’re still as annoying as you were in the past. Good god what would mother say seeing you act this way?” Spike didn’t seem to notice he slipped into his William voice.

 

Winston waves his hand dismissively, “You were always the well behaved one.”

 

Spike noticed everyone except Angelus, Winston, William & Wallace were staring at him in disbelief.

 

He frowns, “What?”

 

“You slipped into posh speak mate.” Wallace informs him.

 

Spike’s eyes widened, “That’s your two’s fault!”

 

“How’d you figure that?” Winston asked amused.

 

“Because I feel comfortable and safe around you I slipped into being my old self.”

 

“I thought you were a ruffian? That’s what the council books said anyway.” Giles asked confused.

 

Wallace & Winston started laughing at that, “No mate. I was the ruffian. Right family, wrong member.” Winston said after he calmed down.

 

“You don’t feel comfortable & safe with me?” Buffy asked Spike, she sounded close to tears and looked devastated.

 

He turns to her, “Of course I do sweetheart. It’s just they new me from back then. When I was bullied as a young boy they protected me.”

 

“He changed his ways to act more like me as a defence mechanism. So people wouldn’t see the real him.” Winston informed her.

 

“How did you know that?” Spike asked shocked.

 

“You’re our brother. No one knows you better than we do.”

 

“So you’re happy with me?” Buffy asked in a small hopeful voice.

 

“Yes kitten. I’m ecstatic to be with you. You make me happy. I didn’t mean to upset you baby, William’s my past, and obviously my brothers are from that past. So I slipped into my past self without noticing.”

 

She sighs relieved, “Good, and I get it. I love you Spike.”

 

“I love you too sweetheart.”

 

Fred looks at Wesley and takes a deep breath, “Wesley? Can I talk to you in private please?”

 

“Of course dear.” He follows her to the kitchen.

 

“We need a conference room in here.” Hornet said with a sigh. “The kitchen isn’t a place for deep conversation.”

 

Everyone chuckles at his words.

 

In the kitchen Fred was pacing.

 

Wesley looked at her concerned, “Whatever’s a matter?”

 

“I think now’s the time to ask. I like you Wesley, like really like you. And I was wondering if maybe....you would like to be my boyfriend?” She blushes deeply as she asked.

 

Wesley blushes himself and begins cleaning his glasses, “I’d like that very much.”

 

“Really? You would?” She asked hopeful.

 

“Yes I really would.”

 

She smiles hugely, “That’s great!” She runs over and hugs him.

 

He hugs her back, “I suggest we head back to the others. We don’t want to miss anything.”

 

She pulls back, “You’re absolutely right let’s go.”

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

It was 7pm and the 3 Serpents were still deep in a poker game.

 

Salazar looks at his watch, “It’s 7pm. We should get ready soon.”

 

“Don’t fret Salazar, we’ll end them in time.” Stygian said with a smirk.

 

“I know. I’m looking forward to it.” He said with his own smirk.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

Ethan was reading something when Sirrus passed him a ring.

 

“I know you have magic but you don’t have the strength, this’ll help.” Sirrus told him.

 

“Thank you. This will come in handy.”

 

Sirrus nods then turns to address the room, “Prepare yourselves, it’s getting late. Salazar’s going to be ready for war soon.”

 

Everyone nodded with a determined look.

 

Buffy sighs, “It’s crazy. I know it’s only been 9 days since this whole thing started. But it feels like we’ve been fighting against them for months.”

 

Hornet sighs, “That’s the problem with The Serpent Family. They move extremely fast.”

 

“I can’t believe how evil they are though. Have they ever done anything good? Like ever?”

 

“Depends on your definition of good, they have done things in the past that have indirectly helped us. But that was really more for themselves than anything. I mean we’ve only ever had one truce with them and that was before even Solomon was born.”

 

“You had a truce with them? Why?” Oz asked shocked.

 

“They also helped us lock away The Masters of Evil. But like I said, it was a long time ago. The ones we had the truce with are long gone.”

 

“So they really only helped out of self-Interest? Why am I not surprised?” Anne asked sarcastically.

 

Hornet shrugs, “It’s human nature. Not everything humans do is in self-Interest mind you, but take Xander for example. Now I don’t mean any disrespect for the dead, but he only helped you hoping you’d date him. That’s self-interest right there, can you honestly tell me if he knew from the beginning he never stood a chance he’d have stuck around?”

 

“No I don’t think he would have. But Salazar’s self-Interest got people killed.”

 

He looks at her in disbelief, “So did Xander & Riley’s self-Interest. They made the wish in the first place.”

 

Anne’s eyes widened like she’d completely forgot that.

 

He continues, “I know being slayers you try to find the good in everyone, but I think it’s hypocritical you don’t do the same with demons. You used to think because someone wasn’t human that made them automatically evil, which is far from the truth.”

 

“I know I’m sorry.” She frowns, “But what’s that got to do with self-Interest?” She asked confused.

 

“Because you believed all humans were good and anything that wasn’t was evil, that would be self-Interest, because you were doing so to save your misguided beliefs from being destroyed, and to not accept the evil humanity is capable of.”

 

Multiple people’s eyes widened at that, “Oh God! You’re right. That was out of my own self-Interest. Why didn’t I notice that before?” She asked incredulously.

 

“Because self-Interest is something everyone goes through at a certain point in their lives. It doesn’t matter how big or small the situation is, it always happens. It’s that common, that like you, others didn’t know some of their actions were from it. Even I’ve done stuff in self-Interest in the past. Everyone has.”

 

Giles was cleaning his glasses, “Yes I agree, everyone has done something in self-Interest at some point in their lives.”

 

“Yeah it’s not a bad thing, in some cases. It’s a normal thing that everyone does.”

 

Drusilla smiles, “Yes. Like Angel taking the job at Wolfram & Hart if he survived.”

 

Everyone’s eyes widened at that, but Sirrus just sighs, “He still took the job? After everything he learnt?” He asked disappointed.

 

“Yes. He thought that we lead to his redemption.”

 

“Well it won’t. I can’t believe he’d still do it.”

 

“What’s this about Angel taking a job at Wolfram & Hart?” Wesley asked incredulously.

 

Sirrus sighs again, “Angel in his misguided belief to get his redemption takes over Wolfram & Hart when they offer him the job. He decides to take them down from the inside, and ends up starting one of the worst apocalypses this multiverse has seen.”

 

“But him trying to stop The Senior Partners was a good thing wasn’t it?”

 

“Sure.....if he didn’t attempt it with only 3 other people with him. That apocalypse will happen, but D.U.S.T. are the ones that are supposed to fight it. We have the numbers, and the connections to evacuate the entire city’s population first.”

 

“Are you really sure? That doesn’t sound like Angel?” Buffy asked confused.

 

Hornet snorts, “Don’t go back into your fantasy. He took your memories because he thought it was the right thing to do.”

 

“I’m not going back into my fantasy. And when you put it that way he probably would have.”

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

It was 9pm when Salazar looked at his watch.

 

“Everyone prepare yourselves, it’ll soon be time for war.” He finishes with a smirk.

 

The minions cheered.

 

******

 

Throne Room, Arashmaharr

 

D’Hoffryn was still watching Salazar he saw him ordering his minions around.

 

“Everyone prepare yourselves. Salazar’s preparing for war. We will soon end his reign of terror.”

 

The hundreds of demons gathered cheered.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

They were all talking and laughing when D’Hoffryn teleports into the room.

 

“Greetings.”

 

Sirrus nods, “D’Hoffryn.”

 

“Salazar’s on the move. The War is imminent.”

 

Sirrus stands up, “Thank you for informing me.”

 

He nods and teleports out the room.

 

Sirrus turns to everyone else, “Let’s get ready.”

 

The ones involved looked determined and began gathering weapons.

 

******

 

Salazar’s Stronghold, Sunnydale, California

 

Salazar looks at his watch, it was 9.30pm, “I was going to wait a bit more, but I’m bored. It’s time for War!!”

Salazar, Solomon & Stygian exited the Stronghold with Kralik, The Serpent Warriors, Turok-Han & minions following behind them.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

The alarm sounding brought their attention to the screen, they all watched as Salazar’s army marched through the streets of Sunnydale.

 

“It’s time.” Sirrus turns to them, “It was a pleasure working with you all.”

 

They agreed and left the Safehouse ready for war.

 

******

 

Downtown, Sunnydale, California

 

Salazar & his army stopped and stared down Sirrus & the others.

 

Sirrus, Arkillius, Hornet, Bedlam, Spike, Buffy, William, Anne, Wallace, Maria, Winston, Abby, Groo, Drusilla, Angelus, Faith, Lawson, April, Oz, Ethan, Gunn, Kate, Hank, Jonathan, Doyle, Darla & Tara all stood in a line.

 

Before Salazar can speak D’Hoffryn teleports in with an army of demons and stands beside Sirrus.

 

“So you’ve found help Sirrus. It’s not gonna change a sodding thing.”

 

“We’ll see about that. Let’s end this.”

 

“Gladly.”

 

Both armies charged each other, and the war begins.

Notes:

The war is coming, after it only one side will be left.

Like all the other chapters, this is all done by me. Let me know what you think.

Chapter 19: Chapter 19 - The War

Notes:

The final fight takes place in this chapter.

This chapter switches between two scenes, that’s why most locations aren't marked.

Downtown, Sunnydale, California

 

Both sides clash and the fight is on, Sirrus & Hornet take on Salazar, Arkillius & Bedlam take on Stygian, Spike & William take on Solomon, Buffy & Anne take on Kralik, and everyone else takes on the minions.

 

Gunn with the help of the enhanced strength the ring gave him was able to take on two Turok-Han with ease.

 

Salazar sees this and can’t help but comment, “I see you’ve gave them enhanced strength. It won’t matter, you still won’t win.”

 

“We always win eventually Salazar.” Sirrus responds matter-of-factly.

 

The fight was back on, Salazar punched Hornet then kicked Sirrus in the leg, Sirrus responded with a headbutt, which Hornet followed up with a spin kick making Salazar stumble backwards.

 

Wallace & Winston were taking on Turok-Han & Serpent Warriors with extreme skill. It was obvious they work well together, Winston pulled out a red stake that transformed into a double pointed staff.

 

“Bring it fuck face.” He said to a group of Turok-Han, and they did. He flipped over them then used the staff to sweep their legs out from under them, he stake multiple while they were on the ground.

 

Arkillius backhanded Stygian splitting his lip, Stygian kicked his legs out from under him then received a punch in the face from Bedlam.

 

Spike grabbed Solomon’s head and brought it down and kneed him in the face, he recovered from the blow and elbowed Spike, William punches him in his ribs, Solomon spins with a backhand and William’s head snaps back at the force.

 

Kralik had Anne by the throat, but a punch from Buffy caused him to let go.

 

He turns to her, “Do you really think two little girls can stop me now?”

 

“I guess we’ll find out.” She replied through clenched teeth.

 

“I guess we will.” He said with a smirk and attacks her again.

 

Buffy saw the attack coming and dodged it, “Is that the best you’ve got?” She asked tauntingly.

 

“I’ll dust your boyfriend you little bitch!” He snapped angrily.

 

Buffy’s eyes flashed with anger and her expression darkened, “I’ll rip your head off first!” She snapped angrily and attacked him in a rage. She was doing amazing Kralik couldn’t keep up with her.

 

Hank was handling himself pretty well, he’s already dusted some of Salazar’s normal vampire minions.

 

Drusilla, Darla & Angelus were handling themselves well, Angelus used a sword to decapitate a Turok-Han dusting it. Drusilla & Darla also managed to take out some Turok-Han themselves.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

Joyce was watching the screen worried, “Oh Buffy, be careful sweetheart.”

 

Lindsey, Giles, Willow, Wesley, Dawn, Fred, Anya, Lorne & Clem were watching worried as well.

 

Clem decides to reassure Joyce, “Spike won’t let anything happen to her. She’s safe with him there.”

 

Joyce breathes a sigh of relief, “You’re right, Spike will protect my baby.”

 

Lindsey was watching Darla like a hawk.

 

Wesley sees this, “Don’t worry Lindsey. She’ll be fine.”

 

He nods, “Yeah, yeah she will."

 

******

 

Some Turok-Han attack Sirrus & Hornet drawing their attention away from Salazar, Doyle attacked him from behind.

 

“You killed Cordy. It’s time to send you packing you gobshite.”

 

“Watch who you’re calling stupid you leprechaun looking motherfucker.”

 

“Oh Irish insults is it?”

 

“No. Mainly because you’re a little green demon.” Salazar said with a smirk.

 

He turns into his demon form, “Aye, I am at that. But enough chit-chat, let’s finish this.”

 

He shrugs, “If you insist.” He tornado kicks him knocking him back a couple of feet.

 

Doyle retaliates with a punch making Salazar stumble. Then they both began trading blows.

 

Kate takes out some Serpent Warriors and then turns to some Turok-Han, one of them tries to slash at her with its claws but she blocked the attempt. She uses her sword to decapitate it and kicks out at another one knocking it back.

 

April blocked one of the Serpent Warrior’s sword with her axe, she kicks out at it causing it to stumble, she followed up by decapitating it.

 

D’Hoffryn was cutting down enemies left & right, he flicks his wrist and sent some Serpent Warriors flying. He clicks his fingers and dusted about ten Turok-Han.

 

Buffy grabs Kralik’s head and snarled, “You dare threaten my future mate? I’ll end you for thinking you could do so.” With another snarl she ripped his head off dusting him.

 

Anne looked at her wide eyed, “What the hell was that?”

 

She looks at her expressionless, “He threatened my mate. He had to die.”

 

Abby who took out her enemies walked over, “Her slayer took over, it happened to me when someone threatened Winston. She’ll be back to normal soon.”

 

“Oh that’s good.”

 

******

 

Giles was watching wide eyed, “Her slayer took over. Fascinating. Spike being threatened brought the slayer forward.”

 

“Isn’t that dangerous?” Dawn asked worried, “Other slayers killed the girls loved ones.”

 

“No I don’t believe so. That only happened when people were forcing them to date humans, we’ve accepted her being with Spike.”

 

******

 

Spike & William were still dealing with Solomon and doing pretty well, Spike kicked him in the side and William followed up with an elbow.

 

Bedlam was in a magical battle with Stygian, they’re throwing fireballs, lightning, ice, and all manner of other elements. Arkillius was currently taking out some Turok-Han & Serpent Warriors that tried to intervene.

 

Buffy & Anne were now helping the others against the Turok-Han & Serpent Warriors.

 

Doyle stumbles as he’s struck by Salazar, “What’s a matter mate? Upset I broke your birds neck?” He asked amused.

 

“Don’t talk about Cordy!” He snapped angrily.

 

“Touched a nerve did I?” He said with a smirk.

 

“I’m going to make you regret ever coming here!”

 

“Already do, having retards like you a round’s making me lose braincells.”

 

“Just go home then!”

 

“Make me.” He said with another smirk.

 

He attacked him in a rage, his fist connects with Salazar’s face making his head snap back. Salazar kicks his legs out from under him then kicks him in the stomach causing him to slide a couple of feet across the ground.

 

April sees Salazar standing above a floored Doyle and runs over, she brings the axe down attempting to strike him in the back. Only for him to catch the axe in one hand without even turning around.

 

He addresses her without turning around, “You were close, but no cigar.” He pulls the axe out of her grip spins around and cuts her head off, “People keep fixing you. Let’s see what we can do about that.” He proceeds to rip her to pieces then sets her remains on fire. “Like to see someone put you back together now.”

 

Oz was in wolf form ripping out Serpent Warriors throats.

 

Faith & Lawson were fighting back to back against some Turok-Han. But after Faith sees what Salazar’s done she heads towards him.

 

“Hey!” He turns around, “It’s our turn to fight.”

 

He smirks, “Is it now? What’s one little slayer going to do?”

 

Abby, Maria, Buffy & Anne step up beside Faith, “Try five slayers on for size.” Buffy said angrily.

 

“Well then, let’s see what you can do.”

 

They all attack him at once, they’re getting some hits in but Salazar seems to be holding his own against them.

 

******

 

“He’s taking on 5 slayers at once.” Fred said shocked.

 

“I’m just as surprised as you. Although I’m not sure why, Sirrus told us he’s extremely dangerous and skilled in combat.” Wesley adds on.

 

“With D’Hoffryn lending a hand it’s working out in our favour. Salazar’s army’s dropping pretty quickly.” Lorne said relieved.

 

******

 

The slayers were attacking Salazar with everything they had. All they can think about is what Sirrus said before they got to the battlefield.

 

******

 

Flashback – Just After Leaving The Safehouse

 

“Right, before we get to the battlefield we need to talk tactics.” Sirrus said after he stopped walking.

 

“What’s the plan?” Buffy asked curiously.

 

“I need you to try and get Salazar to bleed. Bedlam will do the rest.”

 

“How will making him bleed help us?” Maria asked confused.

 

“We can open a portal that will pull him and the others home, but we need his blood to do it.”

 

“Well that’s should be simple. We’ll just attack him at full force.” Angelus said determined.

 

“No!” He exclaims, “Sorry, but if everyone constantly concentrates on him he’ll figure out what we’re up to. We can’t make it obvious what we’re doing.”

 

“How can we make it not obvious?” Anne asked curiously.

 

“We’ll keep switching. Me & Hornet will fight him first and then let something draw our attention away, as soon as that happens someone else attacks him.”

 

“I will.” Doyle said with a raised hand, “He’ll think my anger over him killing Cordy will be the only reason.”

 

“Yeah that’ll work.”

 

“After I’ll start a fight with him.” Faith said with a smirk, “He’ll probably say something about me taking him alone. Then at that point you four come over.” She points at Buffy, Anne, Maria & Abby. “Then he has to take all 5 of us at once.”

 

“Don’t let that drop your guard.” Sirrus warned them, “He’s fought 7 slayers at once before and won.”

 

They nod, “Thanks for the heads up.” Buffy said determined.

 

“If that settles it let’s send this wanker back where he came from.” Spike said obviously ready for a fight.

 

They all nodded and began walking again.

 

Flashback – End

 

******

 

Salazar backhands Buffy, punches Anne in the nose, sweeps Faith’s legs out from under her, headbutts Abby, and elbows Maria. He follows up with multiple other blows leaving all the slayers on the ground.

 

They begin pushing themselves up, he laughs at them, “Hornet’s wife’s a slayer. But she’s actually a challenge in a fight, you’re all just extremely disappointing. Watching you run around thinking you can take someone like me. It’s bloody pathetic.”

 

Buffy stands up, “We’ll stop you.” She said through clenched teeth.

 

“When you’re out of nappies maybe. Oh that’s right I forgot, you yanks call them diapers.” He said with a smirk.

 

Faith stands up, “We’re not babies!” She snapped angrily.

 

“Oh no? Aren’t you the one who killed innocent people because you felt left out?” He sees her flinch at his words, which causes him to smirk.

 

He turns to Buffy & Anne, “And you two. So quick to jump at anything your friends asked so they wouldn’t leave you.” They both flinched as well, “I know Harris had a thing for you. He should have just told you if you didn’t date him he’d leave. You’d jump at the chance to stop that happening.” Hurt flashed in both their eyes, quickly followed by anger. “But he left you anyway didn’t he? How’d it feel cleaning his blood up after he slit his own throat?”

 

Buffy & Anne were both shaking with rage now, “I’ll end you.” Buffy said face contorted with rage.

 

He sighs, “Many have tried, all have failed. What chance has a slayer got? Especially one that believed all humans were good and all demons were evil.” He looks at her in disappointment, “That’s racist. You’re group has a black guy in it. Ask him how he feels about that.”

 

Buffy & Anne flinch again at his words, “That’s enough!” Abby snapped angrily.

 

He gets a look of mock innocence, “I’m just proving a point. I’m evil I’m not racist.” He smirks, “Kinda hard when you hate all races equally. Also my family has Nigerian & Japanese descendants.”

 

“You like to hear yourself talk don’t you?” Maria asked annoyed.

 

“Rather hear myself talk than listen to whiney children like you. All your ‘I never asked for this, I wanted a normal life.’ And blah blah blah. I know something you don’t.” He said cryptically.

 

“Yeah? And what’s that?” Buffy asked irritated.

 

“The potential that acts like a bitch is usually the one that gets called, it’s The Powers way of making you accept responsibility.” All five of their eyes widened causing him to chuckle. “But you’re right. I’d rather be fighting.” He attacked them all again.

 

Bedlam crashes into the side of a building as he’s hit with a fireball from Stygian, he stands up and his forearms turn to steel, he goes to punch Stygian only for him to catch his fist with his hand, now steel itself.

 

The sounds of metal clashing together can be heard when they block each others punches.

 

Arkillius is still keeping anyone from intervening in their fight, he holds out his arm and the tattoo of the sword moves down it again like in L.A., he takes hold of the now real sword and begins cutting through the Turok-Han attacking him.

 

Groo & Gunn were standing back to back taking out Serpent Warriors. They look over as D’Hoffryn dusted the last Turok-Han.

 

******

 

“That’s the last of the Turok-Han.” Willow said excited, “We’re winning!”

 

“Yes it appears that way for now. But the main threats are Salazar, Solomon & Stygian.” Giles reminded her.

 

Willow’s excitement evaporates at that, “Yeah. They’re the real danger. I hope the guys don’t underestimate them.”

 

“I don’t believe they will. We’ve learnt our lesson about underestimating him in the past.”

 

“I hope Buffy doesn’t let the stuff Salazar said get to her.” Joyce said worried.

 

“As do I.”

 

******

 

Salazar knocks Buffy to the ground and with a kick sends her crashing into Faith. He flips over Anne’s head and kicks her in the back, he spins and backhands Abby, Maria tries attacking him only for him to turn to smoke and fly behind her, after reforming he sweeps her legs out from under her.

 

Stygian’s eyes turn black, “You’re starting to piss me off.”

 

Bedlam’s eyes turn black, “Good.” He replied with a smirk.

 

They attack each other again, Stygian grabs him by the throat and throws him in the air, then follows up with a punch sending him crashing into a nearby car.

 

Bedlam stands up and fires lightning at him knocking him back, he then teleports close to him and puts his hand on his chest slamming the still airborne Stygian to the ground. He follows up with a kick to his side the force lifts him off the ground, he then blasts him with a shock wave sending him through the window of a nearby shop. He follows him in and they start fighting around the abandoned property.

 

Stygian picks Bedlam up and slams him on the counter, holding his throat he begins dragging him across the counter top knocking everything off on the way. As he reaches the end he launches Bedlam into a nearby set of shelves.

 

Bedlam gets up and charges him, he picks Stygian up and slams his back into another set of shelves, Stygian repeatedly begins elbowing Bedlam in the head, which causes him to get released. Stygian throws a fireball which Bedlam dodges causing it to set some of the shop alight, they begin trading blows as the fire slowly spreads catching other things on fire as well.

 

Outside Salazar notices the blaze, “Dad!” He begins running towards the shop only to be cut off by the slayers, “Let me go you slags! My dad’s in there!”

 

Buffy shrugs, “That means nothing to me.”

 

“Oh? So you’re planning on letting Bedlam burn along with him?”

 

That caused their eyes to widen as they turned to the blazing building, only before they could do anything an explosion happened causing multiple people including Salazar & Solomon to scream out, “NOOOO!!!!” Buffy then remembered the explosion from the slayer dream. Before anyone could panic too much though they both come through another blown out window, it appears Bedlam speared Stygian bringing them both back out into the street. After a sigh of relief Buffy receives a punch in the side of her head from Salazar.

 

“False alarm.” He said with a smirk.

 

“I’m gonna kick your ass!” She snapped angrily. ‘I can’t believe he sneak attacked me like that.’

 

He shrugs, “You’re gonna try, bitch.”

 

That does it, she attacked him again landing multiple hits.

 

******

 

Dawn breathed a sigh of relief, “Bedlam’s fine. I thought he was dead.”

 

“Me too pumpkin belly. I’m glad he’s not.” Joyce said in agreement.

 

******

 

Jonathan had easily killed at least 30 Serpent Warriors. The skills Bedlam filled his head with were definitely coming in useful. He, Tara & Ethan looked around at the sea of bodies, some Serpent Warriors and some D’Hoffryn’s demons. More Serpent Warriors come towards them, the 3 of them get into a defensive stance just as they attack.

 

Jonathan blocked a strike from a sword then decapitates the Serpent Warrior responsible. Tara & Ethan use a spell to incinerate some of them.

 

Abby lands on the ground with a thud, Maria attacked Salazar making him jump over her leg sweep and land on the hood of a nearby car. From here he kicks her in the face, Anne grabs his legs and drags them out from under him, with this he slams onto the hood.

 

His eyes turn black and he kicks Anne away, he slides off the car as Buffy charges him. He grabs her by the throat and with a spin throws her through the windscreen of the same car he was just on. He then turns to Faith, with a leg sweep and followed up spin kick while she was still mid fall he sent her a couple of feet down the road.

 

Spike fell to the ground with a broken nose, “Wanker!”

 

Solomon smirks, “Stop being such a little bitch. I’m sure your girls gave you worse than that.”

 

Spike stands up, “Don’t talk about Buffy!” He snapped angrily.

 

Before Solomon can respond William attacks him from behind, “You should pay attention you wanker.”

 

He turns around and punches him in the nose breaking it like he did Spike’s, he then followed up by grabbing him by the throat and giving him a choke slam onto the ground.

 

******

 

“Salazar’s forces are dropping pretty quickly. But they don’t seem to be making a dint in Salazar, Solomon & Stygian’s defences.” Giles said worried.

 

“Why are the slayers focusing mainly on Salazar? He can’t be killed.” Clem asked confused.

 

Wesley frowns, “Good question. But I’m sure they have some kind of plan.”

 

“They must do.” Joyce said with full belief.

 

******

 

Buffy attacks Salazar again thinking back on the plan.

 

******

 

Flashback – On Route To The Battlefield

 

“I know full well Salazar’s going to beat me in our fight....and I’m planning on it.” Doyle said cryptically.

 

“What do you mean?” Faith asked confused.

 

“I have a plan to make him bleed. But for it to work he has to lose interest in me.”

 

“Okay....What’s that gonna achieve?” Buffy asked with a frown.

 

“With him losing interest in me he’ll concentrate on you. I can’t attack straight away after, if I do he’ll be ready. We have to make him drop his guard.”

 

“How?” Anne asked curiously.

 

“You have to lose.”

 

“WHAT??!!” All 5 slayers yelled outraged.

 

Winston leans forward, “You got a sodding death wish?” He hissed out, “Telling slayers to lose on purpose is the perfect way to lose your balls.”

 

“He’s not wrong.” Hornet adds on quietly.

 

“Thanks for the heads up.” He hissed back, “Better late than never.”

 

“Hey!” Abby snapped, “Focus. Now why don’t you explain why we should lose?” She asked in an extremely sweet voice.

 

The voice made Winston’s eyes widen and he backed away slowly, she turns to him, “Don’t think you’re out of the woods buster.”

 

Winston sighs, “Yes dear.”

 

“Good.” She said extremely happy then turned back to Doyle, “OK spill!” She snapped annoyed.

 

“If you begin losing to him he’ll get cocky and let his guard down. Then I can attack and make him bleed.”

 

They looked thoughtful, “Okay that’ll work.” Buffy said with a shrug no anger left in her at all.

 

Doyle watches them walk away in disbelief, “How the hell do you lot date slayers? How quickly their mood changes is unreal.”

 

Spike, William, Wallace, Winston, Lawson & Hornet chuckle at that.

 

Flashback – End

 

******

 

Buffy hits Salazar causing him to stumble, he smirks at her, “That the best you got?”

 

“Not even close.”

 

“Well then, bring it.”

 

They attack each other again.

 

The Serpent Warriors were low in numbers now, the others were gathering together to take out the rest.

 

Stygian & Bedlam were still in the middle of a fight, they were slamming each other into walls & nearby cars. Stygian slams Bedlam onto a car, then grabs his legs and with a spin sends him slamming into the side of a building.

 

Bedlam gets back to his feet, “Come on Stygian. We aren’t finished yet.”

 

“Always keep coming back for more don’t you?”

 

“It’s not really coming back for more though is it? We haven’t finished the first fight yet.” He said with a smirk.

 

“Well we’ll just see about that.” Stygian said angrily then followed up with a punch.

 

Bedlam’s head snaps back due to the speed and strength behind it. He grabs him and they begin teleporting all over the battlefield still fighting, roof tops, inside buildings and in the middle of other fights interrupting them.

 

Solomon was knocked to the floor by Spike, while on the ground Solomon kicks out at Spike’s legs, which causes him to fall on the ground.

 

Solomon pulls out a stake and attempts to dust him, Spike rolls out of the way.

 

******

 

“That was close.” Dawn said relieved.

 

“Yes it was.” Giles said while cleaning his glasses, “They’ve realised they can’t use magic on us because of the charms Bedlam created for us. So they’ve moved onto more physical means to kill us.”

 

“Solomon best hope Buffy didn’t see that.” Dawn said with a smirk.

 

******

 

The problem was Buffy did see it, her eyes flashed with anger.

 

Spike gets back up, “I’m fine kitten!” He reassures her.

 

She nods with a smile then turns back to Salazar, “You’ve caused enough damage.” She said angrily.

 

Salazar laughs, “Sorry, but no, nowhere near enough.” With that he attacked her again.

 

They begin trading blows then the other slayers got involved again. Salazar throws multiple hits knocking them all to the ground again.

 

Buffy casts a quick glance at Doyle, he was hiding behind a nearby car as he slowly sneaked up on Salazar.

 

She gets to her feet, “You think you’re winning?”

 

He shrugs, “Looks that way doesn’t it?”

 

Faith pushes herself to her feet then limps over to Buffy’s side. “We’ll stop you. Even if it kills us.”

 

“Yes, I imagine it will.”

 

Anne steps up beside them cradling her arm, “You won’t beat us.”

 

“You in the same fight I am? Because it looks like I’m kicking your arses.”

 

Abby & Maria step up as well, “Not for much longer.” Abby said irritated.

 

He laughs, “Dying with dignity. I’ve gotta respect that.”

 

It was obvious to the 5 of them Salazar had dropped his guard and completely forgot about Doyle’s existence. Doyle moves up to behind the last car, the one Salazar’s standing near.

 

******

 

Flashback – Just Before Reaching The Battlefield

 

“Ark? Stay close by during the battle. I’m taking on Stygian.” Bedlam informs him, “The second they make Salazar bleed we switch.”

 

“Yeah OK.” He said with a nod.

 

Flashback – End

 

******

 

Doyle runs over and headbutts Salazar, the spikes in his demon form cause Salazar to bleed.

 

Salazar stumbles holding his face, “You tosser!”

 

“Now!” Bedlam shouts, Arkillius switches places and starts attacking Stygian. Bedlam teleports over to Salazar and gets some blood.

 

“Nice knowing you.” Bedlam said as he throws a drop of the blood and begins chanting.

 

Shortly after a portal opens and begins pulling the remaining Serpent Warriors through it.

 

“You Wanker! You played us!” Salazar shouts outraged.

 

“Too right.” Sirrus said as he approached. “I’m sure we’ll meet again Salazar.

 

“Nooo!” Solomon shouts as he was dragged out of the body he was possessing and pulled into the portal.

 

Stygian’s the next to be pulled by the portal, “You fuckers will pay for this!”

 

Arkillius waves his hand dismissively, “Yeah, Yeah, I’ve heard it all before.”

 

Stygian’s then pulled through the portal.

 

Salazar feels it beginning to pull at him, he throws some sort of spell at Buffy causing her to stumble. “I’ll be seeing you.” He said with a smirk and lets the portal pull him in.

 

As the last of the Serpent Warriors & minions are pulled through the portal closed.

 

Everyone sighs in relief.

 

******

 

“We won!” Willow said ecstatic.

 

“Yes we did.” Giles said relieved.

 

******

 

Spike walks over to Buffy, “What did he do to you sweetheart?”

 

She frowns, “I don’t know. It just knocked me off balance a bit. Other than that I feel fine.”

 

“Good.” He pulls her into a heated kiss.

 

Sirrus smiles at the scene, “Bedlam? Make sure Salazar can’t return here.”

 

He nods, “You got it.”

 

Everyone makes their way back into a group.

 

D’Hoffryn approaches Sirrus, "I'm taking my army back to Arashmaharr. We have loved ones that require burying."

 

He nods, "That's fine. Thank you for your help D'Hoffryn."

 

He nods then he and his remaining army teleports away.

 

All of a sudden Lawson grabbed hold of Faith’s shoulder, “I feel weird.”

 

“Baby? What’s wrong?” Faith asked scared.

 

“I don’t know.”

 

Drusilla comes forward, “Not to worry brother. It’s your reward.” She grabs Faith’s hand and places it on his chest.

 

Faith gasps, “Your hearts beating.”

 

Lawson’s eyes widened, “How’s that possible?”

 

Sirrus steps forward, “The Shanshu. Congratulations you’ve been given life. You’re now a Living Vampire.”

 

Everyone gasps at the that.

 

“I think I need to sit down.” He said completely shocked at the news.

 

Faith walks him over to a bench, “Sit here Baby.”

 

He sits down still in complete shock, “I’m a living vampire now? What’s that mean exactly?”

 

“You still have your strength. But as a bonus sunlight can’t hurt you anymore, holy water does fuck all and crosses are pointless. You can live on blood or human food now. Stuff like that.”

 

Everyone congratulates him.

 

“We should head back to the safehouse.” Hornet said as he walked past.

 

They nodded and began following him.

 

******

 

“Lawson earned the Shanshu. I’m glad it went to someone deserving of it.” Wesley said honestly.

 

“I agree. He definitely deserves it. I wonder if he’ll let me run some tests.” Giles said thoughtfully.

 

“It’s a possibility. But I believe they’ll want some sleep after a battle like that.” Wesley comments with a nod.

 

“What do you think Salazar did to Buffy?” Dawn asked worried.

 

“I’m not sure.” Giles said with a frown, “I believe we’ll find out soon enough though.”

 

After a bit more talking the others re-enter the safehouse.

 

Lindsey walks straight over to Darla and kisses her.

 

Everyone smiles at the scene.

 

Joyce walks over and hugs Buffy then Anne, William, Spike & Hank. Dawn follows her lead.

 

“Don’t know about the rest of you but I’m shattered.” Bedlam said then yawns.

 

“Yeah. We’ll all sleep then celebrate tomorrow.” Sirrus said with a chuckle.

 

They all nod and make their way upstairs.

 

Darla pulls Lindsey into her room. Anne pulls William in hers. Faith does the same with Lawson. Maria pulls Wallace into the room that’s theirs. Abby does the same with Winston. Fred follows their lead with Wesley. Buffy pulls Spike into their room. Everyone else was amused by the spectacle and went into their own rooms.

 

Buffy & Spike start getting ready for bed. “I can’t believe it’s over.” She said relieved.

 

“Me neither. But it is.” He said with a smile.

 

She smiles back, “Yeah it is.”

 

They both slip into bed and cuddle each other, soon they’re asleep. As they sleep a glowing green snake symbol appears on Buffy’s inner forearm just above her wrist. After a couple of seconds it disappears like it was never there.

Notes:

The Serpents are gone, but not before cursing Buffy. April was destroyed beyond repair, and Lawson was rewarded with The Shanshu.

There's 4 chapters left, we'll see how our heroes try to move on from the damage caused.

Like all the other chapters, this is all done by me. Let me know what you think.

Chapter 20: Chapter 20 - Celebrations

Notes:

Back to short chapters, the last 3 will be around the same in word count.

Our heroes celebrate defeating The Serpent Family.

More information revealed.

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

Buffy panicked as she woke up alone, “Spike?! Where are you?!”

 

He came running into the room, “I’m here kitten.”

 

“Where’d you go?” She asked after she calmed down.

 

“Come see.” He said with a smile and holding his hand out for her to take.

 

“Okay.” She smiled, “Let me just get into some actual clothes.”

 

“OK sweetheart.”

 

After a couple of minutes she was out of her pyjamas and in normal clothes. She took Spike’s hand and he led her to the kitchen.

 

“What’s all this?” She asked amazed as they entered the kitchen.

 

He smiles sheepishly, “I thought we could all celebrate. So I made us all a little party.”

 

She looked around at the food, drinks & alcohol set up in the kitchen, “You’re the best boyfriend ever!” She exclaims happily.

 

He looks at her in awe, “Thank you. You’re the best girlfriend ever.”

 

She blushes and smiled shyly, “I love you Spike.”

 

“I love you too kitten.”

 

After a couple more minutes everyone else entered the kitchen, “Look what Spike did!” Buffy exclaims excitedly as the others looked at the food & drink.

 

“Cool!” Dawn exclaims happily.

 

“Thanks stud.” Faith said with a smirk on the way past.

 

Hornet pats him on the back, “Cheers mate. You’ve saved me a job.”

 

Arkillius, Bedlam & Sirrus snort at that.

 

“What?” He asked confused.

 

Arkillius raises an eyebrow, “We know you well enough. You’ll start making the food then after 10 minutes you’ll find an excuse for someone else to take over. I think the only person you cook for without bitching is Allison.”

 

He waves his hand dismissively, “She’s my wife. Plus she’s scary when pissed off.”

 

Everyone else thanked Spike then found a seat and began eating and talking.

 

Bedlam was watching Buffy intently.

 

Something she noticed, “What?”

 

“You feel any different from yesterday?”

 

She frowns, “No why?”

 

“Your auras different. Only a little, but still different.”

 

Tara looks at her then frowns, “He’s right.”

 

“Does it have something to do with what Salazar did?” Spike asked panicked.

 

“Not sure. But I’ve got a theory. Buffy please show me your inner forearms.”

 

She frowns and does just that.

 

He looks at both of her forearms, “Bollocks!” He exclaims and starts pacing.

 

“What?” Buffy asked scared.

 

“You’ve been cursed. I should’ve figured it out when the spell didn’t hurt you.”

 

“What’s it going to do to me?” She asked panicked.

 

“Nothing. You’ve dealt with him already. The curse is for the other Buffies.”

 

“It’s good that I’m fine. But bad for the other Buffies.”

 

“Nothing to be scared of sunshine. Him turning up will help the other sunshines. It will wake them up from their nasty beliefs.” Drusilla reassures her.

 

“But the damage he caused. How can that be a good thing?” Anne asked incredulously.

 

“Sometimes damage is required to wake up those who believe stubbornly.”

 

“You’re saying he’s the only person who can show the other Buffies the truth?” Clem asked shocked.

 

“Yes.” Hornet said with understanding, “If Buffy never faced Salazar she wouldn’t have believed that humans could be evil. She had to face someone who couldn’t be beat easily. The longer he stays around the more it’ll force the others out of that belief.”

 

“You’re right.” Buffy said honestly, “If it wasn’t for Salazar I’d still be in that belief.”

 

“Let’s celebrate winning. We’re supposed to be having a good time.” Sirrus suggested.

 

They all nod and get back to celebrating.

 

After a couple of minutes Buffy turned to Faith, “Sirrus offered me a place as a D.U.S.T. free agent. I’m wanting Spike to do it as well. I thought you and Lawson would be interested too?”

 

“What’s it mean being a free agent?” Faith asked curiously.

 

Sirrus explains, “It means you get paid for protecting the Hellmouth, and you don’t have to travel all the time like a full agent has to.”

 

“Yeah, I’d like that.” She said with a nod.

 

“Me too.” Lawson agreed.

 

“Good.” Buffy said happily.

 

Arkillius walks out the room and returns with some papers.

 

“You need to fill these in.” He said as he passed them to Buffy, Spike, Faith & Lawson.

 

“Paper work?” Buffy pouted.

 

He chuckles, “Not really. You need to fill out your names, species, date of birth and any allergies you have. We’ll be giving you bank accounts and badges.”

 

“Oh that makes sense.”

 

They read the papers and began filling them in, if there was something Buffy didn’t understand Spike would explain it. Once they were finished they passed them back.

 

Sirrus gave them a quick read and passed them to Arkillius, who exited the room and came back with D.U.S.T. badges. He passed one to Buffy, Spike, Faith & Lawson. They thanked him and looked at the badges in amusement. They looked like police ones except they said D.U.S.T. across them.

 

After a couple of minutes Anne asked a question, “What’s going to happen to me & William? We’ve finished with Salazar.”

 

Sirrus turns to them, “We’ve been looking for the perfect place for you. We’ve found a reality where you & Spike never existed. We could take you there.”

 

“But no one will know us.” Anne said sadly.

 

Sirrus smiles reassuringly, “Nothing to worry about. That world has a Giles, Willow, Xander, Joyce, Tara, Anya and everyone else of its own. If everyone here agrees we can copy their memories to give the other ones.”

 

“So everyone will know us?” She asked excited.

 

“Yeah everyone will know you. And as a bonus they’ll remember what happened with Salazar.”

 

Giles frowns, “That’s all well and good, but Xander’s dead here. How’s this other Xander meant to get his memories?”

 

“We wouldn’t give that Xander this one’s memories anyway. We don’t want him having the same obsession this Xander had. We’ll give him altered memories. They’ll be his memories but with only friendship in mind.”

 

“Ah, I agree with that. It’s all sorted then, I’ll be happy to share my memories. Anything to help Anne & William fit in.”

 

Anne runs over and hugs him, “Thank you, thank you, thank you.”

 

He hugs her back, “You’re welcome dear girl.”

 

William walks over, “Thank you Rupert.” He holds out his hand.

 

Giles seemed shocked at first to have a Spike not refer to him with a nickname. But smiles and shakes his hand.

 

“You’re welcome William. Please look after her?”

 

“Goes without saying.” He replied with a nod.

 

They all get back to celebrating.

 

An hour later Angelus randomly stumbles, “What the hell was that?”

 

“What happened?” Sirrus asked with a frown.

 

“I don’t know. I felt this power pass through me. I feel stronger than before.”

 

Bedlam looks at him, “Your auras definitely showing a boost in strength.” He frowns, “But I’ve never seen anything like it.”

 

“What could it mean?” Wesley asked intrigued.

 

“I don’t know. But we’ll look into it.” Sirrus responds thoughtfully.

 

After a couple of minutes without it happening again they got back to celebrating. Bedlam silently left the room.

 

Buffy looks around the room, “You know. I’m going to miss this place when we leave.”

 

Gunn nodded, “Yeah me too. We need to find somewhere to live. We’re staying in Sunnydale after all.”

 

“We’ve got that covered.” Sirrus said with a smile, he leaves the room and comes back with some paper work and a bag.

 

“Here.” He passed them a deed each. “These deeds are for the houses on Buffy’s street. You’ll all live close to each other now.” They took them, “Feel free to swap if you prefer someone else’s house.”

 

They nod, Lindsey & Darla chose one. Fred & Wesley did the same. Faith & Lawson followed suit.

 

Sirrus passed one to Buffy & Spike.

 

Buffy frowned, “What’s this for?”

 

“A house for you and Spike. You’re next door to Joyce.”

 

Her eyes widen, “Seriously? You mean it?”

 

“Yeah I do. All these properties have been purchased by D.U.S.T., and not to worry, the people who survived have been contacted and they’ve agreed to sell.”

 

“Oh my god! Thank you.”

 

“You’re one of us now.” He said with a smile.

 

“I don’t think I need a house all to my self.” Gunn said with a shrug.

 

“That’s what this is for.” He passes them the papers to an apartment complex. “They’re decent apartments.”

 

They nod thankfully and take them.

 

“Here.” Sirrus throws Spike, William, Wallace, Winston & Angelus a ring. “They aren’t as strong as The Gem of Amara, but they’ll protect you from the sun, holy water & crosses. But you can still be staked so watch yourselves.”

 

They all thanked him and took them.

 

“Spike can come out in the sunlight?” Buffy asked excited.

 

“Yeah he can. As long as he wears that.”

 

Dawn & Buffy squealed happily making the vampires cover their ears.

 

Buffy turns to Sirrus, “Thank you.”

 

“Nothing to thank me for. They deserve a reward themselves for helping.”

 

Jonathan turns to Sirrus, “Can I come with you when you leave? I want actual training. Then I’ll be a free agent like Buffy when I come back.” Jonathan asked hopeful.

 

“Yeah that’s fine.” Sirrus responds with a nod, he turns to Willow, “You can come too. We’ll take you to a special coven. Don’t worry you’ll be able to stay in contact with everyone here.”

 

Willow looked relieved that she can still talk to everyone, “Yeah I’d like that.”

 

“OK it’s settled.”

 

They go back to celebrating. They were laughing, talking, drinking, it was a good celebration.

 

******

 

Throne Room, Arashmaharr

 

D’Hoffryn and his demons were having a little celebration themselves.

 

“We’ve stopped Salazar.” Halfrek said happily.

 

D’Hoffryn shakes his head, “No. We’ve stopped him here. But he’s cursed the slayer. He’ll travel to different realities messing with other versions of her.”

 

“Can’t we stop him for good?”

 

“We can’t. But someone can. He’ll cross paths with her eventually.” He responded cryptically.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

“What ever happened to The Gem of Amara anyway? I remember sending it to Angel but that’s the last I saw of it.” Buffy asked curiously.

 

“He destroyed it kitten.” Spike responds as he takes a drink of his beer.

 

“WHAT??!!” Buffy exclaims incredulously.

 

“Yeah he smashed it with a brick.” Doyle responds then turns to Spike, “How’d you know?” He asked confused.

 

He shrugs, “Saw it happen didn’t I. I was across the street on the roof of another building.”

 

“What the hell did you send Angel the Gem for?” Hornet asked Buffy incredulously.

 

“I wanted to get it away from Spike. It made him dangerous.”

 

“So you sent it to Angel? Who could have turned into Angelus at any moment?” He asked with a raised eyebrow.

 

Her eyes widen, “I didn’t think of that at the time.”

 

He snorts, “Course you didn’t. You had Spike to pin Angelus’s crimes on. Angel got a free pass because he told you he was someone else and you believed him.”

 

She looked ashamed, “I’m sorry. I realise how stupid I was to believe that.”

 

“You were a little girl at the time. But Giles wasn’t and he believed it.”

 

“I was going off what the council taught me. I apologise.”

 

“It’s been dealt with now. But in the future, if you can’t prove something, don’t talk about it like it’s gospel.” He noticed a couple of people looking confused, so he explained, “What I mean by that Is you kept saying soulless people couldn’t love. But where was your proof? You just expected everyone else to believe it because you did. And before you try to explain Angel turning psychotic as you’re reasoning. Let’s not forget he had two human souls, something vampires aren’t supposed to have. Because it turns the demon insane.”

 

“The soul turned Angel’s demon insane?” Buffy asked shocked.

 

“Yeah. That’s where his split personality came from. He wasn’t two different people, he just believed he was. Before you ask, I’m rehashing old info because you’re a D.U.S.T. agent now. Now you can actually call in and ask If somethings true instead of just believing it is.”

 

“Yeah I understand.” She said with a nod.

 

“We’ll fill your head with D.U.S.T. knowledge the next time we see you.” Sirrus informs her.

 

“Cool.” Buffy said happily.

 

Everyone eventually noticed that Bedlam was missing, “Where’s Bedlam?” Anne asked with a frown.

 

Before anyone can answer Bedlam teleports back into the room.

 

“I’ve been to fetch April’s remains. She needs to be buried. We have robots in D.U.S.T.”

 

They nod their understanding.

 

“Let’s go and bury her now. She deserves recognition.” Jonathan said as he stood up.

 

They all nodded and Arkillius & Hornet fetched the shovels. Everyone else begins to make their way outside.

 

As their walking Willow asked a question, “Can we come back sometime to visit the graves?”

 

Sirrus nods, “Yes. With Buffy, Spike, Faith & Lawson being members of D.U.S.T. now they can return anytime they want. You could always come with them.”

 

She nods and thanked him.

 

“Nothing to thank me for. We aren’t going to stop you visiting your loved ones graves.”

 

They eventually reached the other graves, Arkillius & Hornet begin digging another one.

 

“I’m worried about the other Buffy. From my dream she’d just been brought back from the dead. Having to deal with Salazar on top of it won’t help.” Buffy said as she watched the grave being dug.

 

“Benny & Atlas will help her.” Sirrus told her honestly.

 

“Who’s Atlas?”

 

“My brother.” Bedlam responds from her right side.

 

“Why’s he called that? Isn’t that a book of maps?”

 

“Like me it’s a nickname. He’s never gotten lost, not even once. So everyone started calling him Atlas. Let’s just say if you ever end up somewhere unknown, he’s the one you want with you.”

 

“Have you gotten lost before?”

 

“Yeah, I have. Me & my siblings have special skills. Some of them are skills the others don’t possess. We never figured out how he always knows where he is, or always knows the way back. It’s one of those mysteries I doubt we’ll ever solve.”

 

“Do you have any they don’t?”

 

“Not as of yet. Atlas didn’t know he had that ability until he was in a situation where it became known to him.”

 

“That must be scary. Not knowing what you are or where your abilities come from.”

 

“Yeah, it can be. I’ve got siblings though. Arkillius is the only one like him we’ve ever come across. He has no one to share it with, no one who really understands anyway. We’ll always be there for him, but it’s not the same.”

 

“I get that.”

 

Arkillius & Hornet soon finished with the grave, Bedlam creates another coffin then places April’s remains inside it. After that he levitates the coffin and lowers it into the hole, Arkillius & Hornet begin filling it back in.

 

They all watched in silence until it was finished. Once it was Bedlam created a headstone, which read, ‘April. Trusted Teammate. She Will Be Remembered.’

 

After a couple of minutes they all make their way back inside. Ready to finish celebrating the defeat of The Serpent Family.

Notes:

Buffy, Spike, Faith & Lawson officially join D.U.S.T. as free agents, the remaining vampires get rings to walk in the sunlight, our heroes have new houses & apartments, and April was buried as a sign of recognition.

What happened to Angelus? And Who's this mysterious 'Her' D'Hoffryn reffered to?

Like all the other chapters, this is all done by me. Let me know what you think.

Chapter 21: Chapter 21 - Allies Departure

Notes:

Goodbyes are made in this chapter.

More information revealed.

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

They re-enter the house and carry on celebrating.

 

“We’ll be leaving later today. We'll obviously give Buffy, Spike, Faith & Lawson something to contact us with. You’ll also be able to contact Angelus, Anne & William in their home realities as well.” Sirrus informs them.

 

Buffy nods, “So We’ll see you again?”

 

“Yes. I can guarantee that. It could be months before that happens though. There are other threats out there.”

 

Hornet interrupts, “You could always call to chat if you feel so inclined to do so.”

 

“Cool. Thanks.”

 

Sirrus carried on, “We’ll be sending a clean up crew in. They’ll clean up the bodies and fix the buildings.”

 

“Good. I don’t like the idea of having to deal with all that.” Buffy said apologetically.

 

“Nothing to worry about. But remember you’re a D.U.S.T. member now. Sometimes you might have to get involved in stuff like that. Especially when you move up the ranks and have to lead soldiers at some point.”

 

“I understand.” She said with a smile, then looked thoughtful. “Can members of D.U.S.T. be mated?” She asked hopeful.

 

“Only if they’re mated to other members, or people we trust completely. Because we don’t want untrustworthy outsiders to have power over our members.”

 

“Yes, I agree. Claims have been used for controlling people in the past.” Giles said with a nod.

 

“Could we meet the other Buffies? Ethan said they’ll probably use this safehouse. If we’re here when they show up would we meet them?” Buffy asked curiously.

 

“Yeah it’s a possibility. Depends when they show up though, remember we only had to put up with Salazar as long as we did because of the denial demon. There won’t be anything keeping him in their world.”

 

“Well at least they won’t have to deal with him as long as we did.”

 

Hornet looks thoughtful, “No they won’t. But I don’t see it ending well for that first world’s Willow.”

 

“Why?” Willow asked shocked.

 

“Because we got to you in time. Your magic addiction hadn’t took root yet. That Willow from what we’ve seen visiting realities like that one, was full on addicted. She wouldn’t listen to anyone. She’s not going to believe people that Salazar’s dangerous, and it doesn’t even matter if we show her what’s happened here. She’ll still think she can take him.”

 

“So again, me & the other Buffies have put people in danger for letting them get away with everything. Haven’t we?” Buffy asked sadly.

 

“I’m not going to lie to you. It would have helped if you put your sodding foot down sooner. You’re a member of D.U.S.T. now. You’re going to have to put your foot down in the future. We can’t have people getting away with doing stupid & irresponsible things just because they’re your friends.”

 

“I understand. I’m feeling guilty about the other Willow. She’s not even my Willow. But I underestimated Salazar at the beginning. So I know they will.”

 

“We best hope that reality’s Xander wakes up quicker than this one did.”

 

“I reckon once he sees his grave he will.” Ethan said then took a swig of his beer.

 

“Are you still fixing the magic box?” Anya asked randomly.

 

Sirrus chuckles, “Yes. The clean up crew will fix it and replace all your stock.”

 

Anya’s eyes light up, “Oh thank you so much.”

 

“You’re welcome.”

 

They get back to celebrating.

 

******

 

Salazar’s Home World, Different Multiverse

 

Salazar was pacing, “I can’t believe those fuckers outsmarted us.”

 

“You’ll get revenge in the name of The Serpent Family brother. I believe in you.” Seraphina said reassuringly.

 

“Too bloody right I will.”

 

“Sie werden bezahlen, niemand kreuzt The Serpent Family.” Siwardus said angrily.

 

“Yes cousin, they will pay. You remember you can speak English yeah?” Salazar said amused.

 

Siwardus smirks, “Yes. I was seeing if you went rusty in foreign languages.”

 

Stygian enters the room, “You should know Salazar better than that Siwardus.”

 

“Of course I do Uncle Stygian. I was messing with him.”

 

Seraphina turns to Stygian, “I’m glad Salazar found you dad.”

 

“So am I. Salazar’s cursed Buffy Summers. So he’ll be visiting her again, a different version, but her all the same.”

 

Salazar chuckles, “Yeah, all I have to do is wait for the curse to activate.”

 

Seraphina looks amused, “What activates the curse?”

 

He smirks, “Denial. Rather fitting, wouldn’t you say?”

 

The four of them begin laughing.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

Angelus looked thoughtful, “Why did you lock The Masters of Evil away? Can’t you kill them?”

 

“We couldn’t, at least at first.” Sirrus said honestly, “Since then we’ve found a weapon that can kill them. Only we’re not stupid enough to use it.”

 

Buffy looked confused, “How’s killing The Masters of Evil a stupid idea?”

 

He sighs, “Have you ever wondered why there isn’t an apocalypse every day?”

 

“Yeah actually, why isn’t there?”

 

“Because every evil being fears The Masters of Evil. Other evils warned about them to not piss them off, their existence keeps other evil entities in check. If we killed them it would be catastrophic. Picture this, every evil thing in all creation fighting for a seat on the thrones the Masters will leave behind.”

 

Everyone felt dread at the thought, “I think I prefer them locked up.” Buffy said as she leaned into Spike’s side.

 

“Yeah so do we. We don’t want innocents caught in the crossfire, and we know they will be.”

 

They all agree with him and go back to celebrating.

 

*******

 

Throne Room, Arashmaharr

 

“I’d like to know how this curse Salazar’s cast is actually activated.” D’Hoffryn said irritated, “But with him being in another multiverse I can’t view him from here.” He was pacing back & forth while he spoke.

 

“From what that Jonathan boy said it’s something this Buffy did that the others won’t do that triggers it.” Halfrek said thoughtfully.

 

“That doesn’t narrow it down. The other Buffies are so far under their friends thumbs you need a crane to drag them out.”

 

“What if that’s it? The other Buffies won’t stand up to their friends.”

 

He shakes his head, “No. That’s what Buffy & the others thought it was. I doubt Salazar would make it so easy that they could figure it out without the curse actually being activated first.”

 

“But it’s definitely something they won’t do.” She frowns in concentration.

 

He sits in his throne, “Yes. I believe it is. I usually wouldn’t get involved. But Salazar will return to this multiverse. And when he does....we’re all in danger.”

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Safehouse, Different Dimension

 

They were all having a laugh when Sirrus looks at the time, “It’s 2pm. We best get ready to set off.”

 

“Already?” Buffy asked sadly.

 

“Believe me we’d like nothing more than to stay and party the day away. But we have to travel the void. That will take us at least 3 days, as long as no Voidian Leviathans block the route. We also have to drop Anne & William off in their new home reality. Plus Willow & Tara at the coven. That’s if you still want to go Tara?”

 

“Y-yes thank y-you.”

 

“OK it’s settled. Bedlam’s already got everyone’s memories to pass on. We just need Jonathan, Willow & Tara to gather anything they might need. They’ll be gone a couple of months. And remember you can keep in touch with each other. We’ll make it so William & Anne can even visit you.”

 

“Thank you.” Buffy said sincerely.

 

“You’re one of us now. Remember that. You’ll definitely see us again. In the future we’ll even let you come & see Headquarters.”

 

She smiles and nods.

 

“Bedlam take Jonathan, Tara & Willow to fetch their stuff.”

 

He nods and Jonathan, Willow & Tara hold on to him, “Prepare yourselves. It feels weird if you’re not used to it.” They nod and he teleports out.

 

“My duffle bags in my room, I’ll be back in a minute.” Angelus said as he left the room.

 

“We Don’t have anything.” Anne said referring to herself & William.

 

“We’ll make copies of Buffy & Spike’s things. That way you’ll have stuff to take.” He turns to Buffy & Spike, “If that’s OK with you two?”

 

“Yeah of course.” Buffy said with a smile.

 

“It’s fine with me too.” Spike said with a nod.

 

“Good.” He pulls out his phone, after dialling he puts it to his ear. “It’s Sirrus. I need transportation.” He listens, “Good. See you then.” He hangs up the phone then turns to address everyone. “Time to go. We’ll say our goodbyes downtown.”

 

They all nod and everyone gets up and gets ready to leave. After everyone’s stuffs together they leave the safehouse for the last time. That is until it’s needed again.

 

“Bedlam? I need you to copy some of Buffy & Spike’s stuff, William & Anne need clothes & Items.” Sirrus said telepathically.

 

“Understood, I’ll get right on it.”

 

******

 

Magic Box, Sunnydale, California

 

They leave the safehouse dimension and head towards the street.

 

“It feels like I’ve known you ages. It’s only been 10 days.” Buffy said as they stopped near the entrance to the shop.

 

“I know. Bad situations bring people together, usually anyway.” Sirrus said with a nod.

 

They all step out into the street.

 

******

 

Downtown, Sunnydale, California

 

They begin walking down the street to the pick up point.

 

“I’m glad you opened my eyes to how the world really works.” Buffy said as they walked.

 

“We didn’t really have much choice. We couldn’t let you go around treating anything that wasn’t human like dirt, all because of what some old men in suits told you. Word of advice for future confrontations, if a demon tells you something about it’s species, consider it true unless we say otherwise. Humans no nothing about how it feels to be a demon. I should know, I am one.”

 

“Yeah. I don’t know why I listened in the first place.” Buffy said honestly.

 

“Because you wanted it easy. Another word of advice. The easy way always has unseen repercussions. Sometimes they’re only miniscule, other times they could be huge.”

 

“You’re right. I’ve had some repercussions in the past for doing stuff the easy way.”

 

“We all have at some point in our lives.”

 

They carried on until they reached the pick up point. Eventually Bedlam, Jonathan, Willow & Tara joined them.

 

Bedlam already had bags for Anne & William, “Before you ask Sirrus telepathically told me to copy some of Buffy & Spike’s stuff for you.”

 

“Cool.” Anne said happily as she took the duffel bags, she looks in one, “Mr Gordo!” She looks at Bedlam, “How did you know I’d want Mr Gordo?” She asked amazed.

 

“Other Buffies have told me about him.” He said with a shrug and a smile.

 

“Who’s Mr Gordo?” Kate asked confused.

 

“Her stuffed pig.” Spike, William, Angelus, Bedlam, Hornet, Sirrus, Arkillius, Willow, Joyce, Hank & Dawn said in unison. They all looked at each other and chuckled.

 

Buffy looks at Spike, “I didn’t know you knew about Mr Gordo.”

 

He looks sheepish, “I’ve been in love with you for awhile and I listen when you speak.”

 

She looks at him with love in her eyes, “I love you Spike. You’re my everything.”

 

“I love you Buffy. You’re my everything too.”

 

Shortly after that a portal opened and A D.U.S.T. transport ship flew out.

 

“That’s us.” Sirrus said as he watched it beginning to land, “Everyone say you’re goodbyes.”

 

They did as they were told and begin saying tearful goodbyes.

 

Buffy hugs Willow, Tara, Anne, William, Jonathan, Angelus, Sirrus, Bedlam, Arkillius & Hornet.

 

Spike even hugs Willow, Tara, Anne & Hornet, then he shakes Jonathan, William, Sirrus, Arkillius, Bedlam & Angelus’s hand wishing them all the best.

 

Lawson shakes some people’s hand and hugs the others, Faith did the same.

 

Drusilla walks over to William, “Good luck William. Take care of sunshine. Until we meet again....and we will.”

 

“Thanks Dru.” He said sincerely.

 

She smiles and turns to Anne, “Take care of him. His feelings are easily hurt. There’s more of his past self left behind than he likes to admit.”

 

“I will. I promise.”

 

She nods and turns to Angelus, “The one you know inside & out is coming. Sirrus will arrive in time to help. But be careful.”

 

He nods, “I will. Thanks for the heads up.”

 

Everyone else carried on with their goodbyes.

 

“Spike? Buffy?” They both turn to Sirrus and he throws them another ring. “It’s for Drusilla. When you two think she’s earned it at least.” They both nod their understanding.

 

After Willow, Tara, Jonathan, Angelus, William & Anne finished with their goodbyes they walk up the ramp of the transport ship.

 

“Buffy, Spike, Faith, Lawson come here.” When they reach him he gives them a bank card each. Then touches the side of their heads, “Those are your pins for the cards. Don’t spend it all at once. And before you ask you get paid monthly.” He pulls out special phones, “Here. They don’t require a signal to call out. Unlimited calls and texts as well.”

 

They thank him for the cards & phones.

 

“Well, this is goodbye for now. We’ll send the clean up crew in tomorrow.” Sirrus said as Bedlam, Arkillius & Hornet entered the transport ship.

 

“OK. We’ll see you again?” Buffy asked hopeful.

 

“Yeah. Could be months from now though. But you will.”

 

She nods and everyone begins waving as Sirrus walked up the ramp to the transport ship. After the occupants waved back the ramp lifted and closed. Then the ship took off through the still open portal, which closed shortly after.

 

They all stood in silence for a couple of minutes, then turned and made their way to their new homes....and new lives.

Notes:

D.U.S.T. have left along with Jonathan, Willow, Tara, Angelus, William & Anne.

Salazar’s curse is triggered by denial. We all know how bad Buffy is with that.

Siwardus said, "They will pay, no one crosses The Serpent Family." In German. That’s what Google translate said anyway lol.

Like all the other chapters, this is all done by me. Let me know what you think.

Chapter 22: Chapter 22 - Those Left Behind

Notes:

The heroes remaining in Sunnydale check out their new homes.

Spike gets a surprise visitor.

Buffy and Spike take their relationship to the next level.

Downtown, Sunnydale, California

 

They were walking towards Revello drive and their new homes.

 

“It feels strange to be going back. I can’t believe how comfortable the safehouse made me feel.” Buffy said with a sigh.

 

“I feel the same.” Joyce said understandingly.

 

“Yeah. It feels weird.” Faith agreed.

 

“Well, our lives are back to normal, as normal as usual at any rate.” Spike said as he took Buffy’s hand, “Only we have jobs, new homes, and nifty new trinkets.” He said as he raised his other hand to look at the ring.

 

Buffy smiles at him and squeezes his hand, “Yeah. We have a lot of new things.”

 

He smiles back, “A lot of good new things.” He said without taking his eyes off her.

 

She blushes at his words, “You’re sweet.”

 

He scoffs, “I’m not sweet. I’m the big bad.”

 

She giggles, “The baddest.”

 

He grins, “And don’t you forget it.”

 

Everyone else was watching the scene with a smile. The ones who knew her well have never seen her this happy. And despite the recent events, she deserves it.

 

They all eventually reach Revello drive. The group that had apartments split off and went to the end of the block where their apartments waited.

 

Joyce, Hank, Dawn, Buffy & Spike entered 1630 Revello drive together.

 

******

 

1630 Revello drive, Sunnydale, California

 

The 5 of them entered the house together, “It feels like it’s been months since I last saw this place.” Joyce said with a sigh.

 

Buffy nods, “I know. Me & Spike will be checking out our house soon.”

 

“Hank will be able to use your old room now.”

 

“Thank you.” Hank said sincerely.

 

“It’s fine.” She replied with a smile.

 

“OK we’ll be back soon.” Buffy said as she took Spike’s hand again and pulled him out the house.

 

******

 

Buffy & Spike’s House, Sunnydale, California

 

They both entered through the front door. The keys were on a table near the front door along with a note. Buffy picked it up.

 

‘Buffy & Spike,

Hope you like your new house. The disinvites already in place, so no one can enter without an invite. Look after yourselves, you’re D.U.S.T. now. That will give you more enemies, on the plus side it’s given you a lot of new friends & allies.

Keep in touch. Sirrus.’

 

She passes the note to Spike who begins reading, “That explains why the keys were sitting on the table. No one except us could get to them.”

 

“Come on let’s look around.” Buffy said excitedly.

 

He smiles and they both do just that, the house turned out to be the same as her mom’s with the room placement. The only thing different was the items & their positions in the rooms.

 

“We’re having the master bedroom.” Buffy said firmly.

 

“That’s fine with me sweetheart.”

 

*******

 

Darla & Lindsey’s House, Sunnydale, California

 

They both entered the house and looked around, they found the keys on a table near the front door, along with a note. Darla picked it up.

 

‘Darla & Lindsey,

Hope you like your new home. The disinvites already in place, so no one can enter without an invite. Look after yourselves.

Good luck. Sirrus.’

 

She passes it to Lindsey who begins reading it, “I like that no one can enter without an invite. That stops any Wolfram & Hart employees that are left getting in.”

 

She nods, “I like it too. Let’s have a look around.”

 

They begin looking around, “It looks the same as Buffy’s old house.”

 

“I know in certain places in the UK the houses on the same street have the same interior. With Sirrus & the others being British it could be something to do with that. Some places in The States look similar inside as well. But I don’t know if these were altered to look similar to each other, or they already did.”

 

“I like it. The interiors familiar this way.”

 

“That could be why they did it. For familiarity. Either way I like it too.”

 

******

 

Faith & Lawson’s House, Sunnydale, California

 

They both enter and look around, after spotting the keys & a note on the table next to the door Lawson picks it up.

 

‘Faith & Lawson,

Hope you like your new home. The disinvites already in place, so no one can enter without an invite. I won’t rehash what I wrote in Buffy & Spike’s note, but watch yourselves. Joining us has made our enemies yours as well. We’ll always be a phone call away.

All the best. Sirrus.’

 

He passes the note to Faith, “So we have to invite everyone in? That’s tight.”

 

“Yeah, I like that we can’t be sneak attacked.”

 

They both begin looking around the house, “It’s the same as B’s mom’s house. I like it, It’s familiar.”

 

“I like it as well.” He said with a nod.

 

******

 

Fred & Wesley’s House, Sunnydale, California

 

They both walked in and looked around, after spotting the keys & a note on the side table Wesley picked it up.

 

‘Fred & Wesley,

Hope you like your new home. The disinvites already in place, so no one can enter without an invite. I’ve wrote that so many times already it’s unreal. Anyway we’ll see you again. Hopefully under better circumstances next time.

Best wishes. Sirrus.’

 

He passes it Fred, “It’s like our own little safehouse.” She said with a smile.

 

“Yes it is at that. I want to talk something through with you.”

 

Fred frowns, “Okay, what’s wrong?”

 

“Nothing dear. Let’s go and take a seat on the sofa.”

 

She nods and they enter the living room and take a seat, “What did you want to talk to me about?”

 

“Well the thing is...D.U.S.T. must have an incredible research team. They mentioned it in the past, D.U.R.T., I believe they called it. I wondered what you would possibly think about becoming free research agents? We’ll get paid like Buffy, Spike, Faith & Lawson only for research not fighting. I’m under no delusion we won’t be taught self-defence though.”

 

“That’s a brilliant idea.” She said excited at the thought.

 

He smiles, “Thank goodness. We’ll talk to Sirrus on the phone. I’m sure Buffy or one of the others will ring them for us.”

 

She nods with a smile.

 

******

 

Abbigail & Winston’s House, Sunnydale, California

 

They both walk into the house looking around, after seeing a note next to some keys she picks it up.

 

‘Abbigail & Winston,

I knew you wouldn’t be able to resist looking. The house is yours if you want it. A disinvites already in place, so no one can enter without an invite. Wallace & Maria’s house is the same. We’ll meet again down the road. Until then, take care.

All the best. Sirrus.’

 

She hands Winston the note, “Bloody hell.” He said with a sigh, “Sirrus knows me too well. Fuck it. With Spike being here we’re sticking around. I ain’t losing my brother again, it took us over a hundred years to find him.”

 

“Yeah I’d like to stick around too. We could have a family here Winston.”

 

“Yeah I suppose we can.” He said with a smile.

 

******

 

Apartment Complex, Sunnydale, California

 

The others walked up to an apartment complex, “I wonder if this is the right place?” Giles asked curiously.

 

“Hang on there’s a note.” Gunn said and takes it down from the door it was attached to.

 

‘Hey all,

The apartments all have disinvites already in place, no one can enter without your permission. The keys to your apartments are inside the rooms. The main reason I left the note here for you to find is because it’s up to you which one you choose. If your circumstances change in the future get Buffy, Spike, Faith, Lawson or Jonathan (After he’s returned) to inform us. We’ll sort it out from there. Giles, I can pretty much guarantee that once you see the apartments you’ll want to move in. So we took the liberty of moving all your belongings over. I hope that’s OK? You’ll be much safer here. Anyway we gave you this apartment complex because it’s in close proximity to the others homes. That could come in useful in the future.

Take care. Sirrus.’

 

He passes Giles the note, “Well I’m definitely intrigued. Let’s have a look then.” He passes the note to everyone else.

 

Once their finished reading they go into the apartment complex. Once inside they separated to check out the different apartments. Lorne, Doyle, Groo, Drusilla, Giles, Kate, Gunn, Clem, Ethan, Oz & Anya each entered an apartment.

 

After ten minutes they all met in the hall again, “I’m rather glad Sirrus already moved my stuff. It’s bloody brilliant.” Giles said approvingly.

 

Ethan chuckles, “Got to agree with you there Ripper.”

 

Oz nods, “I’m liking the feel of my place. It seems to calm my wolf.”

 

“I have a TV!” Clem exclaims happily, “I’ve never had one before. I had to go round to Spike’s whenever I wanted to watch something.”

 

“If it’s anything like my TV Sirrus didn’t bother with expenses. It’s amazing.” Gunn said with a nod.

 

“It’s definitely an expensive one.” Kate agreed, “I think I’m going to like it here.”

 

“You got that right sugarplum, even I’m in awe of my place. I think Sirrus saw my entertainer side.” Lorne said with a huge smile.

 

“I already prefer this to my old place.” Doyle said matter-of-factly.

 

“Mine has special glass that stops the sun from burning me.” Drusilla said happily.

 

“I must agree will all of you.” Groo said pleased, “My new abode serves me well.”

 

Anya nods, “I like it. I’m going to have to move in here. I shared my old place with Xander. It brings back bad memories.”

 

Everyone looked at her concerned, “Do you require help in moving Anya?” Giles asked helpfully.

 

“Yes. Thank you Rupert.” She said with a smile.

 

******

 

Buffy & Spike’s House, Sunnydale, California

 

Buffy & Spike are cuddling on the couch, “I don’t really want to move but we should collect our stuff.” She said with a sigh.

 

“Yeah you’re right. I’ll have to nip back to my crypt.”

 

“OK.” She pulls him into a kiss, “Don’t be gone too long.”

 

“I won’t.” He replied with a smile.

 

They both get up and leave the house.

 

******

 

Joyce’s House, Sunnydale, California

 

Buffy walks through the front door, “Mom? I’ve come to fetch my stuff.”

 

Joyce walks out of the kitchen, “OK honey.” She frowns, “Where’s Spike?”

 

“He’s gone to his crypt to fetch his stuff.”

 

“Oh OK. Well me, your Dad & Dawn will help carry your stuff over.”

 

“Cool.” She said happily.

 

******

 

Spike’s Crypt, Restfield Cemetery, Sunnydale, California

 

He enters the crypt and stops dead in his tracks. He can feel another presence there.

 

“I know you’re there. Come out and stop hiding.”

 

“Who said I was hiding?” A man...no Vampire walked out of the shadows. “You’ve definitely altered since the last time I saw you.”

 

He frowns, “Do I know you? You look familiar but I can’t place you.”

 

The stranger vamps and he gasps at the luminous purple eyes.

 

“You’re Vicstrum!” He exclaims in shock, “I’ve been told about you.”

 

“Yes that’s me.”

 

“What are you doing here?”

 

“Just came to see what the future legend is up to.” He said as he slowly walked around his crypt wiping dust off things. “You need a cleaner.”

 

“I don’t live here anymore. And I know you didn’t come here to discuss home cleanliness. What’s this about a legend?”

 

“I don’t really know myself. That’s what makes it fascinating. Figuring out the mystery.”

 

“But you know I become a legend?”

 

“Yes. You & Buffy. Only I don’t know how. It’s been known for a long time. Every Buffy & Spike get together eventually. Some faster than others. Other Buffies sometimes waste time being scared of what their friends think.” He stops his slow walk around the crypt and looks at Spike. “I mean no offence by this, but does Buffy understand what friends actually are? Because real friends give opinions, not orders. I met another version of you & her once. She told her friends she was dating you and they accused her of being under a spell. Because she thought differently to them.” He begins slowly walking again.

 

“They’re only trying to protect her. Sometimes.” Spike said weakly.

 

“They’re aware she’s a slayer correct? I mean my slayer would kick my arse for trying to protect her. Anyway I digress, I only came to see if you were still kicking. I bid you farewell.” By the time he bid him farewell he walked behind Spike....and seem to disappear. He span around to discover nothing. It was like he was never there.

 

“I need to learn that. I was facing the sodding door.” He muttered then sprang into action. He grabs a couple of duffel bags and starts packing them. Once he’s finished he leaves the crypt & heads home.

 

******

 

Buffy & Spike’s House, Sunnydale, California

 

Spike came back into the house to discover a worried looking Buffy waiting for him.

 

She sighs in relief, “Oh thank god.” She walks over and hugs him, “You had me worried.” She pulls back and makes eye contact. “Where were you?”

 

“Had a visitor.”

 

She looks concerned, “Who?”

 

“Victor Vicstrum.”

 

Her eyes widened, “That legendary vampire Giles told us about? The one you saw when you were human?”

 

“That’s the one."

 

“What did he want?”

 

He tells her everything, the fact both of them apparently become legends, the fact Vicstrum’s mated to a slayer, what he said about her and friends, all of it.

 

“So we’re supposed to become legends? And does everyone need to pick on me for being stupid enough to let my friends boss me around? I’ve realised that’s not what real friends do.”

 

“I think people are more shocked that a slayers letting humans who aren’t the council order her around.”

 

“Probably. Anyway we’ll tell the others tomorrow.” She smiles softly, “It’s late. I think we should go to bed. Don’t you?”

 

“Yeah you’re right.” He said then followed up with a kiss to her forehead.

 

As they both make their way upstairs Buffy decides to go to the bathroom.

 

She begins trembling with anticipation, ‘I’m ready. I want to take this relationship to the next level.’

 

In the bedroom Spike’s putting some of his stuff away when Buffy enters the room in just a towel.

 

“Showers free.” She said with a smile.

 

“OK I’ll be right back.” He said then left the room, ‘I’m sure she does it on purpose. That towel hardly covers anything. Time for a cold shower.’ He thought with a sigh.

 

By the time he showered then came back into the bedroom Buffy was laid naked waiting for him.

 

“I’m ready Spike. For the next step.” She said with a blush.

 

Spike just nodded speechless.

 

After a couple of minutes with no movement she grew impatient then stood up and pulled his towel off. Which caused her breath to hitch and her eyes to widen at his size.

 

That jolts Spike back into action, “What?” He asked with mock innocence.

 

“Will that thing even fit?” She asked shocked.

 

“My cock?” He asked amused.

 

“Yes.” She replied with a blush.

 

“Yeah, I’m sure it will. We’ll go slow OK?”

 

She nods and they begin with slowly kissing each other and backing up to the bed.

 

Buffy laid down with Spike above her, “I was going to show you an extremely good time but with how long I’ve waited for this. If I don’t make love to you now I’m going to go crazy.”

 

She nods, “Make love to me Spike. Show me the other stuff later. Okay?”

 

He nods and slowly pushes his way inside her. She let’s out a long moan.

 

Once he’s fully sheathed he begins slowly pumping into her, “God Buffy! You’re so tight.”

 

She blushes again, “Is that a good thing?”

 

“Yeah baby it is.” He picks up his pace making Buffy wrap her legs around him.

 

“Spike...that feels so good. Don’t stop.” She pulls him down for a heated kiss. Spike begins picking up speed. She breaks away from the kiss with a moan, “That’s it baby....just like that.”

 

“I don’t think I’m going to last much longer. I’ve waited for this for too long.” He said in warning.

 

“I’m not either...make me come Spike.” Buffy said with a moan, which causes him to speed up. “Faster baby...I’m so close...That’s it...Spike!” She screamed as she orgasmed. Her muscles clenched making Spike follow suit as he came with a roar.

 

He rolls off of her and pulls her to his side, “That was...”

 

“Incredible.” She finishes for him with a happy smile.

 

“Yeah, it was. I was hoping to last longer, but I’ve wanted you for so long that I couldn’t help myself.” He said sheepishly.

 

“I couldn’t last either. I’ve gotta say though. That was a lot better than masturbating over you.” Her eyes widened and she blushes over the fact she told him.

 

He chuckles, “I agree.”

 

She felt herself getting turned on again at the thought of him masturbating over her.

 

Spike’s cock begins to harden again at the scent of her renewed arousal.

 

“Already?” She asked amazed.

 

“Vampire stamina baby.” He said with a smirk, “I’m planning on making this the best night of your life.” With that he rolled on top of her making her giggle...and proceeded to do just that.

Notes:

One more chapter remaining. That one won't be uploaded until the 17th as it's my birthday.

Like all the other chapters, this is all done by me. Let me know what you think.

Chapter 23: Chapter 23 - Days Gone By

Notes:

This it the final chapter. Thanks to everyone who read it. I hope you enjoyed this story.

Sunnydale, California – 6 Months Later

 

Everyone’s life got back to normal. As normal as it could on The Hellmouth. Those that died during Salazar’s time here are still missed, but the ache when thinking about them seems to have lessened. Over the months people began to return to Sunnydale. Now it was as if the entire thing with Salazar never happened. They knew they’d never be able to fully forget the damage Salazar caused, as they were constantly reminded by the graves of their loved ones and Los Angeles still to this day...being abandoned.

 

Buffy & Spike were living happily in their home given to them by D.U.S.T., they filled everyone in on Vicstrum’s visit to Spike. They even called and informed Sirrus of it.

 

Faith & Lawson were pretty much the same as Buffy & Spike. They had a happy life and grew as close & as in love as the aforementioned two.

 

Darla & Lindsey’s relationship turned out to be a good idea. They grew even closer than before. Lindsey opened his own law firm in Sunnydale. He still helps out with the bad guys now & then. Darla was allowed to keep the strength enhancement ring as long as she helped protect The Hellmouth. Something she was more than happy to do. Darla was even thinking about becoming a free agent herself. But she was still undecided.

 

Wesley, Fred & Giles became D.U.R.T. free research agents. Informing D.U.S.T. on their findings. They even had a research lab built for them. As well as sent badges to prove they were with D.U.R.T., bank accounts, and phones similar to what Buffy, Spike, Faith & Lawson possess. Wesley was correct about the self-defence. They had to learn how to use multiple weapons in case they were ever cornered. Sirrus also advised them to make sure, Buffy, Spike, Faith or Lawson was with them when they were researching out in the field. Which they of course agreed to.

 

Joyce & Hank eventually got back together, much to Dawn & Buffy’s delight. They plan on remarrying at some point In the future.

 

Gunn & Kate didn’t stay single for long as they began dating. After 4 months they decided to move into one of the nearby houses that were still empty. They both got to keep the rings the same as Darla. With the same conditions in place, which they were both fine with.

 

Giles & Anya began getting closer when he helped her move into her new apartment. Two months later the two of them were dating, as of now though they still live in their own apartments as they decided to wait to move in together. They both still worked at the magic box, as true to his word Sirrus sent D.U.S.T. in to clean up the town.

 

Winston & Abby helped protect The Hellmouth along with Buffy, Spike, Faith, Lawson, Wallace, Maria, Gunn, Kate, Darla & Groo. They got to know everyone and became close friends with all of them.

 

Lorne bought what was left of Willie’s bar and turned it into his new one called The Sanctuary. Doyle, Oz, Ethan & Clem all had jobs there. He still did his thing and read people when they sang for him. Life was good for all of them.

 

Drusilla became an asset to our heroes, as she used her visions for good. She’s saved multiple people herself as well. But with her & Doyle’s visions the evil of Sunnydale can’t do anything without them knowing about it. Spike & Buffy were so impressed that they gave her the ring Sirrus left for her.

 

Willow & Tara returned 5 months after they left. They had new knowledge in the magical field and were fully trained. The two of them moved into one of the houses on Buffy’s street. Tara’s confidence grew in her time away and she’s lost her stutter completely.

 

Jonathan still had yet to return, but from what Willow told them his training will take longer as he’s training to be a free agent.

 

They still talk to Anne & William. The two of them had fit in rather nicely in their new reality. The memories everyone gave the other versions of themselves worked out wonders. Once the memories were implanted they were both greeted with open arms. The two of them went by Buffy & Spike to the people from their reality though.

 

They also still keep in contact with Angelus. He still isn’t sure what Drusilla’s warning meant because nothing has happened as of yet. Either way he still informed the ones in his reality about the upcoming danger.

 

They still visit the safehouse now and again to see the graves of those they lost. The safehouse has yet to be used by anyone else.

 

From what D.U.S.T. informed them The Serpent Curse hasn’t been activated as of yet. But Benny & Atlas have been keeping Salazar under surveillance waiting for the day it happens to activate. Because they all know it will.

 

It’s been quiet for far too long. They all know somethings coming. But they’re still not sure what.

 

*****

 

The Bronze, Sunnydale, California

 

Some of them decided to go to The Bronze and enjoy themselves. They were currently talking at one of the tables.

 

“When Sirrus said we got paid monthly he never said anything about how much. 5000 dollars a month. Each.” Buffy said shocked.

 

Spike nodded, “I knew they got paid a lot, but I didn’t know how much.”

 

“That’s nothing compared to the 500,000 dollar bonus we got.” Faith adds on in disbelief.

 

“Yeah, turns out you get a bonus for stopping apocalypses.” Lawson said with a shake of his head.

 

Anya nods, “That sounds about right.”

 

“How do they pay everyone if they pay all their soldiers & agents? There’s millions of members isn’t there?” Willow asked shocked.

 

“Depends. For example the ones who do research don’t get paid as much because they’re not out fighting things. Buffy, Spike, Faith & Lawson don’t get paid as much as say Hornet does, because he has to travel and they don’t.”

 

“Yeah that makes sense actually.” Buffy said with a thoughtful expression, “We can come & go as we please being free agents. The full agents can’t do that."

 

“Exactly.”

 

They looked over at the dance floor to see Winston & Abby, Wallace & Maria and Gunn & Kate dancing. Abby & Maria were getting annoyed at the appreciative looks Winston & Wallace kept getting from other club goers. Buffy understood the annoyance, she had to sit in Spike’s lap to stop other girls asking him to dance.

 

“The other girls here have no shame.” Buffy muttered angrily.

 

“Why’s that kitten?” Spike asked amused.

 

“You know why. Those hussies were asking you to dance like I never existed.” She said with a pout.

 

“Look at that lip.” He said with his eyes fixed on the lip in question.

 

She smiles, “You gonna get it?” She asked cheekily.

 

“You know it.” He said then leans in and kisses her.

 

They eventually broke away from each others lips, but their foreheads were resting against each other, “I love you Spike.” She said with a happy smile.

 

“I love you too Buffy.” He said with his own happy smile.

 

******

 

Salazar’s Home World, Different Multiverse

 

Salazar’s attention was drawn to the sound of a portal opening. “It’s Showtime.” He said with a smirk and stepped through.

 

He was going to ruin another Buffy’s life.

 

******

 

D.U.S.T. Headquarters, Different Multiverse

 

“Benny! Salazar’s on the move!” Atlas shouted.

 

“Right. Let’s do this.” Benny said determined.

 

They both got their stuff together and followed Salazar through a portal of their own.

 

******

 

The Bronze, Sunnydale, California

 

Spike’s phone begins to ring, he takes it out and answers it. Buffy gets out of Spike’s lap and they both head outside. Which drew their friends attention and they followed.

 

“Hello?”

 

“Spike It’s Hornet.”

 

He looked concerned, “What is it?” that made everyone pay close attention.

 

“Salazar’s on the move. We think the curse was activated, But we’re not sure.”

 

“Right. Thanks for the heads up.”

 

“Don’t mention it mate. I’ve gotta go, take care.”

 

“Same to you mate.” With that he hung up the phone and turned to the others, “That was Hornet. Salazar’s on the move. They think the curse activated, but they’re not sure.”

 

They all look concerned, “That other Buffy activated the curse then.” Buffy said sadly, “It’s scary Y’know? The fact Salazar knows me well enough that he knew the curse would activate. He was only here 10 days.”

 

Spike sighs, “Salazar’s really observant. You could eat a bowl of sodding cereal a certain way and he’d notice something no one else did.”

 

“Well I’m glad he’s gone. It’s good for us, but not so good for the other Buffies he’ll come across.” She said with a sigh of her own.

 

Gunn leans against the wall, “But you heard what Drusilla said. There’s no way of stopping it. Plus it’s supposed to help the other Buffies & Spikes in the long run.”

 

“I know. I just hope he doesn’t cause too much damage.”

 

They all nod in agreement with that.

 

*****

 

Buffy & Spike’s House, Sunnydale, California – 3 Hours Later

 

Buffy & Spike entered their house and Buffy sat on the couch and took her shoes off.

 

“My feet are killing me.” She whined.

 

Spike got down on the floor and proceeded to massage them.

 

She sighs happily, “You’re the bestest boyfriend a girl could ask for.”

 

He chuckles, “Thank you kitten. You’re the bestest girlfriend a guy could ask for.” She giggles at him.

 

Spike sees something out the corner of his eye, “What’s that?” He nods towards a box on a nearby table.

 

She frowns, “I don’t know.”

 

He gets up and walks over, “It’s from D.U.S.T. Headquarters. There’s a note.” He picks it up.

 

‘Dear Buffy,

My soldiers came across this while fixing up Sunnydale. It was underneath an old vineyard. The soldiers brought it back for testing and because we didn’t want it falling into the wrong hands. We discovered it was made for a slayer to wield and decided to send it to you. Hope you can make good use of it.

Until we meet again, stay safe. Sirrus.’

 

Spike passes the note to Buffy, after she read it she got up and walked over to the box. She opened the lid and gasped at what she saw. A red & silver scythe with a stake on the end. She picks it up and it feels like it belongs to her.

 

“Spike baby look at this.” She shows him the scythe. “Look what Sirrus sent me.” She said excited.

 

He eyes it carefully, “That’s a brilliant weapon but careful where you swing that pointed end.”

 

She rolls her eyes and smiles, “Take it you didn’t read the bottom of the note?”

 

He frowns, “What’s that?”

 

She hands him the note back, “Read the bottom of it.”

 

He takes it again.

 

‘P.S. tell Spike Hornet made me put a special charm on it. It can’t dust anyone unless the wielder wants it too. He said and I quote “Spike will keep bitching about it accidentally dusting him so put a charm on it.” Hope that removes his fears some.’

 

“Hornet knows me too well.” He muttered, “OK that’s good, it’s suits you kitten.” He said to her with a smile.

 

“Thanks.” She said with a beaming smile. She then puts it back in the box. “We don’t need it yet. I’m keeping it in our room.”

 

“That’s fine.”

 

They both head upstairs and into their bedroom. Buffy puts the box under the bed. Once that was done they both got ready to go to sleep. They climb into bed and cuddle each other.

 

Buffy rests her head on Spike’s bare chest, “I think it’s happening soon.”

 

He frowns, “What is?”

 

“Whatever Drusilla warned Angelus about. Call it slayers intuition, but I have a feeling it’s going to happen soon.”

 

“Well Angelus came here to help us with Salazar. So we can go and help him.”

 

“Yeah, but we can’t take everyone. His world already has a Giles, Willow, Tara and everyone else of its own. It’ll be way too many people.”

 

“I know. Some people will have to stay and protect The Hellmouth in our absence anyway.”

 

She nods against his chest, “You’re right.” She looks thoughtful, “I wonder who the threat is.”

 

“Don’t know myself. But we’ll find out eventually I suppose.”

 

They both eventually drift off to sleep.

 

*****

 

D.U.S.T. Headquarter, Different Multiverse

 

“Sir!” One of the soldiers shouted as he entered the room.

 

Sirrus looks up from his paperwork, “What is it?”

 

“I think you need to see this.”

 

Sirrus got up, “Show me.”

 

The soldier nods and leads him into a huge room full of monitors. Arkillius, Bedlam, Hornet & Jonathan are already here.

 

The soldier points at one of the screens.

 

The 5 of them look at it, “What is that?” Jonathan asked confused. On the screen was a red dot moving through different realities.

 

“We don’t know. But whatever it is, it’s moving. It’s jumping from reality to reality heading directly towards the one where the Angelus that helped you lives. We consider it hostile.”

 

Jonathan steps back from the screen. He looks different from when he left Sunnydale. He now has a scar over his right eye, a tattoo on his outer forearm and appears to have muscles.

 

Sirrus doesn’t take his eyes off the screen, “Jonathan, Bedlam, Arkillius, Hornet. Suit up. It’s time to go to work."

Notes:

This is the end. The story continues in book 2 of this series & book 1 of The Serpent Curse.

Thank you again to everyone for all your comments and for sticking around. Hope to see you for the next stories.

Like all the other chapters, this is all done by me. Let me know what you think.

Series this work belongs to:

• Part 1 of Allies From Across The Void