Buffy the Vampire Slayer - The Fireman Series

Part 5: Loved and Loth'd

By: Paradox (paradox166@Hotmail.com)

Date started: 27th September 2001 Finished: October 2nd 2001

Rating: PG-13

Notes/Spoilers: One part left. Hope you’ll enjoy this part, it’s a little break from the angst with more laughs and some singing. It’s also twice as long as other parts. Enjoy the premiere of Season 6 Tonight on UPN!

1 Week later

Xander stepped back and admired his handiwork. It had taken him about an hour to set the whole thing in place. Buffy had picked the spot and Xander had obliged immediately. Everyday he saw the hurt in her eyes, the anguish in her voice. He had stopped his snide remarks and childish insults ever since that day. The situation was too tense. Their enemy was still out there and one of their own was down.

Xander stared at Spike’s statue and shook his head. With a sigh he cut the last piece of rope he used to pull the statue up on top of the crypt. With that, he locked the crypt door with a new lock he had installed, and pocketed the key.

With a slight nod as a farewell, he turned around and began walking back home. It was very dark. Buffy would surely be out slaying tonight. She had insisted on continuing her patrols barely a day after she had been brought back to life.

Xander rubbed his tired eyes just then, thinking hard. It just wasn’t right. He was getting married next month while Buffy barely made it through the day; Willow’s guilt was at an all-time high upsetting Tara. Spike was a useless stone slab and Anya was getting upset thinking he was using every disaster in Sunnydale as an excuse to delay their wedding.

Xander sighed, the pressure too high. Then he recoiled in horror.

Had he actually considered Spike as one of their own? He shuddered at the thought and moved forward faster…

*****

Buffy twirled the stake in her hand as she walked through the darkness of the cemetery. She felt at peace with the night. The air so cold, the grass so dark, it was how a Slayer’s workplace should be. No one around to get hurt as she would use every single inch of empty space to her advantage.

Up ahead, her eyes caught the sight of a hand shooting out of the grave. The image made her shudder, reminding her of her own rebirth. She put the thought away and crept closer. She was going to enjoy this kill.

She waited patiently as the vampire extended his entire arm, followed by his other arm and eventually his head, growling as he shot out seeing his new world for the first time.

Buffy got tired of waiting.

She grabbed the vampire by his hair, and with one strong swipe, pulled him out. The vampire barely had time to react as Buffy turned around with a roundhouse kick sending the vampire flying in to the air, landing face first on to a stone plaque.

“Ouch, that musta hurt, huh?” Buffy smirked as she ran straight at him. She jumped and wrapped her legs around his neck. With a backward somersault, she lifted the vampire of his feet and plunged the top of his head about 10 centimeters into the soft ground.

A wide gleeful smile spread on Buffy’s face as she took out her stake. The vampire turned around facing her, fear on his face. He started moving back, using his hands and feet to crawl away.

Buffy raised the stake up, cart wheeled forward to catch up to him, and plunged the stake deep into his heart.

“Gotcha.” Buffy replied to the vampire’s shocked look. The last thing he saw was her grin as he exploded into a cloud of dust.

That had been about the 10th vampire she had dusted that night. That was quite a lot for one night. Which meant something was up. There had been no sign of the First Evil for the past week. He was either recovering or planning something huge. The thought suddenly made Buffy anxious.

She crossed the street, finally out of the cemetery. Up ahead, she saw a couple sitting on a bench, snuggling and kissing passionately. Buffy looked at them longingly as she walked on the opposite side of the street.

She had enough tonight, she wanted to go home…

*****

Giles took off the boiling hot kettle and poured it into his mug. The steam rose, fogging up his glasses as it did. He put the kettle away and began to clean the lenses with the bottom of his shirt. Putting them back on, he picked up the hot mug and headed back to the living room, making sure not to drop any tea on the carpet.

Dawn was sitting on the sofa watching some cartoons as he handed her the mug.

“Here you go.” He smiled pleasantly as Dawn took it.

“Thanks, Giles.” She said, earnestly. “Aren’t you going to have some?”

Giles sat down and shook his head.

“I think I’ve drank enough tea these past few days to last me a lifetime.” Dawn smiled as she took a sip from the mug. Ouch! It was hot. She started to fan her mouth quickly cooling down her lips.

Giles shook his head playfully at the little girl.

“It’s hot!” Dawn whimpered.

“Well it is tea, Dawnie. Not ice-tea.”

Just then they heard the front door open. They both looked down the hall to see who it was.

It was Buffy. She abruptly hung her coat on the coat hanger and slumped her shoulders as she headed to the living room.

Dawn quickly put away her mug and ran to her sister giving her a big hug.

“I’m never going to get tired of doing this.” Dawn said, squeezing her tighter. Buffy’s face brightened up and she smiled.

“I love you too, Dawnie.” Buffy said twirling Dawn’s long hair.

They parted and Giles got up spreading a pleasant smile on his face.

“Buffy, how was the patrol?” He asked gingerly.

Buffy sighed and went to sat down. Dawn stuck right next to her and snuggled up with her on the sofa to keep her company.

“10 vamps dustings.” She told them.

Giles sat down quickly, cleaning his already crystal clear lenses.

“Hmm, I think it’s fair to say something’s up?” He offered.

Buffy nodded, dreading to hear that said from someone else. It had been a whole week, and she was tired. She wanted a break.

“You ok, Buffy?” Dawn asked, witnessing her dazed expression.

When Buffy didn’t reply, Dawn motioned with her eyes for Giles to leave them. He nodded understandingly and left back to the kitchen.

“I wish he was here, Dawn.” Buffy finally let it out. “I didn’t know I’d miss him this much.”

Dawn nodded. She put an arm around her sister.

“Shh, it’s ok, Buffy. We’ll find a way to get Spike back.”

“Yeah well not according to Willow. According to her we may never get him back. That was one powerful spell, Dawnie. I can’t imagine how much pain he was—“

Dawn kept silent, waiting for Buffy to tell her more. Let her release her anger and frustration.

“There’s something else that’s bothering you though.” Dawn said, eyeing her keenly.

She waited patiently for a reply.

“I…” Buffy managed to say. She didn’t continue.

“What?” Dawn asked, anxiously.

“I didn’t tell him I love him.”

That took Dawn by surprise. She slumped deep into the couch.

“Wow.” Dawn said, stunned. “Do you?” Dawn asked her trying to be the responsible one.

“What?” Buffy asked, not understanding the question.

“Love him.”

Buffy was taken aback by the question. She looked down at her open palms and thought deeply about it.

“I don’t know…it’s pretty darn ridiculous to be in love with a statue.” Buffy chuckled attempting to hide her pain—but failing miserably. She choked and all of a sudden she felt her eyes welling up angry for making fun of Spike’s condition.

The front door opened just then. Just when Dawn thought she was making a breakthrough, their conversation had been interrupted. Dawn saw how Buffy immediately began wiping at her eyes and cheeks, hiding her pain and plastering on a smile for her guests.

In walked Willow followed by Anya and Xander.

Buffy and Dawn got up to greet them.

“Hey, Buffy. How you holding up?” Willow was first to ask.

Buffy nodded in reply.

“As well as can be expected.”

“I don’t see why we had to come here, Xander.” Anya whispered, a bit too loudly.

Xander sighed as their argument sparked to life again.

“Honey, we have to check on our friends and see if there’s anything going on they need help with…”

“Don’t talk down to me, Xander. I know why! We’ve been doing it almost everyday. You’re just using it as an excuse not to help me with the wedding preparations! You haven’t even helped me with anything yet!”

Xander bit his lip, guiltily. Almost everything Anya had said was true. Was he really trying to avoid the subject of their wedding?

This was turning into a huge argument. They all decided to head to the dining room as Anya and Xander continued bickering.

“Ahn, look can we talk about this when we get back home?” Anya slapped him hard on his arm.

“No! We’re going to talk about this now, or the wedding is off!” There a serious look on her face.

Xander looked at her shocked. But it quickly turned to anger.

“Fine! Let’s not talk about it, then.”

“Fine!” Anya shouted pushing past him.

“Fine!” Xander shouted back.

Anya grabbed the door handle and stormed out of the house angrily. Xander felt a tear well up in his eyes.

“Anya, wait!” He cried after her. She didn’t even turn around. Maybe she didn’t hear him. “Damnit!” Xander slapped himself on his forehead and kicked the doorframe finding someone to blame.

He turned back into the living room where all his friends had sat down silently.

“Sorry about that guys. She’ll cool down.” Xander said looking down at the floor sheepishly. Was he trying to convince them, or himself?

“Buffy I need to tell you something.” Willow broke the silence. Buffy looked up at her, hopeful.

“You found a cure?” She asked. Willow squinted, not wanting to dash Buffy’s hopes.

“Maybe…it’s kind of a long shot, Buffy.” Willow told her slowly keeping full eye contact.

Willow saw the corner of Buffy’s mouth twitch.

“Praecor Loth.” Willow said. Buffy continued to look at her confused. “It’s a horn. It was used in medieval clashes as a weapon. Whoever was worthy enough to blow the horn could shatter castles—stone castles.”

Buffy laughed without mirth.

“That’s just great, Will. Let’s turn Spike into a pile of rubble.”

Willow grew impatient.

“Look, that’s not what I’m saying.”

“Uh-huh.”

“Look I’ve been working on it night and day, Buffy. I didn’t stone Spike. But I feel really guilty about it, so could you please cut me some slack!?” Willow cried.

Silence fell upon the room.

Buffy rubbed her tired eyes and tried to focus. She shouldn’t have been so sarcastic about Willow’s idea. It was true. It wasn’t really her fault she had been possessed by the First Evil.

“Sorry.” Buffy said, breaking the silence. “Rough patrol.” She offered.

Willow nodded understandingly.

“I understand, Buffy. We’ve all been on edge this past week.”

“So,” Dawn spoke up, “tell us more about this horn, Will.” All eyes went to the witch.

“We can use the horn to weaken the stone. I can then cast a Flesh Rejuvenation spell, a kind of healing spell if you will, as Buffy blows the horn.” Everyone’s face registered hopelessness. Willow sighed. “I told you it was kind of a long shot.”

“Will, it’s better than leaving Spike like that forever. We’ll have to try it.” She nodded. “You said only someone worthy could blow the horn?” Buffy asked.

Willow nodded, excited. “Yeah, it was usually brave knights and warriors that used it.”

“Let’s hope it works for Slayers too.” Giles filled in.

“Ok, now the big question.” Buffy felt new energy coursing through her. “Where is it?” Willow looked down. Disappointment crossed Buffy’s face.

“I’m still working on that…” Willow muttered.

*****

The next few days passed so slowly sometimes Buffy felt she just wanted to go to sleep and wake up at sunset to start patrolling.

Her hopes had been renewed when Willow had told her about that horn. But as the days passed, her hopes went down and down.

Dawn continued to go to school, Giles would occasionally stop by and help Buffy with the chores around the house. She was very grateful to him for that. What was worse was the money left in her account which Joyce had passed on to her. Every day it seemed to shrink. She knew eventually she’d have to find a way to make more money.

But she didn’t want to think about it now.

Today she and Willow were supposed to go wedding-dress shopping with Anya.

Buffy stopped in front of the shop and gazed at the sign.

“Weddings, Weddings, Weddings.” Buffy said to herself then shook her head, “How original.”

The bell rang as she entered the shop. She immediately noticed the beautiful white dresses. They mesmerized her for a few seconds. She was lost in thought with a vision of walking down an aisle with her mom, dad and sister sitting at the front.

She knew it would never happen.

“May I help you?” A kind voice offered next to her. Buffy snapped out of her trance and gazed at the handsome employee.

“Uh, I’m waiting for my friends.” Buffy cleared her voice. The man gave her a smile and offered his hand.

“Well in the meantime why don’t I show you around? I’m Andrew.” Buffy shook his hand and smiled pleasantly.

“Buffy.” Buffy thought she saw him nod for a second there. “This is a very nice shop. Have you been open long?” Buffy asked, making idle chit-chat as she waited for Willow and Anya.

“Um you could say that. We’re still pretty new. There aren’t that many bridal shops around Sunnydale.”

Buffy shook her head.

“Nope.” They walked further into the store with Andrew showing her some of their finest and most expensive dresses.

“Wow!” Buffy said, astounded at one dress.

“I knew you’d like that one.” Andrew said, pleased with himself.

“No, no.” She shook her head, “look at the price!” She exclaimed, pointing at the tag. “Is that the serial number or the price?” Buffy flirted with him.

Andrew blushed and moved his hand to bend the tag so he could see the price. He accidentally brushed Buffy’s hand as he did.

Buffy withdrew her hand maybe a little too abruptly.

“I’m sorry.”

“No.” She smiled back at him, “Don’t be.”

Andrew visibly relaxed.

Just then the store bell rang. They both turned around to see a red head briskly walk into the store.

“Hey, Will!” Buffy waved at her and moved to greet her friend.

“Wow these dresses are, wow!” Willow was immediately awed by the dresses on show.

“Yeah, aren’t they beautiful?” Buffy admired them with her.

“Good afternoon, ma’am. I’m Andrew. Are you the bride?” Andrew asked.

Willow giggled.

“I wish.” She said, jokingly. “Where’s Anya?” She asked then.

Buffy shrugged her shoulders.

“She’s late.”

The store bell rang then and in walked a young brunette, huffing and puffing.

“Anya!” Willow called out to her, waving.

Anya walked to them, her face red, clearly annoyed at something…or someone.

“You, Mrs. Harris, are late.” Buffy told her, mockingly. Anya didn’t reply, she just shrugged her shoulders.

“Xander and I had another fight.” She whispered to them.

“Ah, you must be the bride?” Andrew asked from the back.

Anya looked up at him and sized him up.

“Yeah, do you work here?” She asked bossily. Andrew nodded, his hands clasped together waiting patiently. “Well get me the most expensive dress in this place. My fiancé’ is paying for it.”

Willow and Buffy exchanged a look.

“Right away, ma’am.” Andrew said and walked back to his computer terminal to access the database.

“Anya maybe you should think more clearly about this.” Willow said, trying to calm her down.

Anya would have none of it.

“That jerk doesn’t have time for anything. He won’t see the caterer and he doesn’t even want us to get a wedding coordinator. We might as well call the whole thing off!” She was beginning to talk too quickly.

“Relax, he’s just as pressured as you are.” Willow offered.

“Besides he’s been working over time, you have to give him some credit.” Buffy tried.

Andrew came back with a slip of paper. He handed it to Anya, smiling pleasantly at her.

Her eyes went wild at the price. Then relaxed.

“I’ll take it!” She exclaimed and handed the slip back. He took it cautiously.

“Right then, if you’d just follow me so I can take your measurements?” Anya followed him into the back room.

“Buffy, how’s the research on Praecor Loth going?” Willow asked.

“Squat. He might as well have called himself Praecor You-can’t-find-me Loth.” Buffy muttered sarcastically.

“From what I’ve turned up, he might not have been a knight at all. Or even, um, Human.” Buffy’s eyes widened.

“I may have to kill a huge demon to get the horn?”

Willow nodded slowly in reply.

“Just another day on the job.” Buffy forced a smile. “No big.” She added. “So what’s new with you and Tara?” Buffy asked, changing the subject.

“Not a whole bunch of stuff. We took Business in Europe this term as well as Creative Writing and some other electives. She’s been really supportive these past few days. I still feel guilty for what the First Evil did with my body.” She shook her head, remembering everything he had done.

“It’s not your fault, Will—“

“I know that Buffy, but I can still see their faces when I got to sleep. Those people I, um, he killed at the coffee shop, that baby I almost killed.” Willow looked down. “It’s so sad.”

“Don’t worry.” Buffy said determinedly. “We’re gonna get him. I promise.”

Willow nodded weakly.

Anya strolled back with Andrew, bouncing happily.

“We’re done. Let’s go.” She told them as she passed them.

As Buffy turned to follow them out the door, she felt someone pat her on the shoulder.

“I’m sorry to be so blunt,” Andrew said as she turned to face him, “but you’re a very attractive young lady, surely you have a boyfriend? Husband?” He slickly tried to sway the conversation his way.

“Um, not exactly.” She said, unsure of where the conversation was headed. Willow and Anya had paused at the door spying at them. Buffy thought she saw them giggling.

“Could I ask you out on a date? Say Friday night?” His voice was hopeful.

“Um—“ Buffy stuttered. She turned her head to look at her friends. Willow nodded at her smilingly while Anya held up a thumbs up. She made her mind up. It wouldn’t hurt to go out on one date. Hey it’d be her first date actually since she had come back.

“Buffy?” He asked. Buffy felt so stupid, she had probably been day dreaming for a few minutes.

“I've got to go.” She walked away quickly.

At the exit, Willow and Anya had surprised looks on their faces.

“No way!” Willow exclaimed.

“You turned him down?” Anya asked.

Buffy suddenly felt guilty. Why? It’s not like she had a boyfriend. She just didn’t feel right about dating. It just seemed odd with Spike frozen in time for her to continue living her life.

In the future she’d probably wish she’d never walked in to that store at all…

*****

“Found him!” Giles yelled into his phone. He paced his room quickly holding a red torn book, clearly old.

“You what?” Buffy asked.

“I know where Praecor Loth is!” He repeated. He underlined the words with his finger and read out loud. “Herein lies the story of Praecor Loth, the most cunning and vile mediaeval knight…”

“Ok, Giles, will you cut the history lesson and tell me where he is!” Buffy shouted in to the phone, clearly excited.

Giles sighed, unhappy she didn’t want to hear about brave adventures and dark battles. Great stuff!

“The last account details him living as a hermit at Mt. Magnor.” He told her.

“Mt. Magnor?” Buffy asked. “Isn’t that on the outskirts of Sunnydale?”

“It is, yes if I remember correctly.”

Buffy hummed to herself, deciding on the best course of action.

“Buffy?” Giles asked to see if she was still there.

“Yeah, Giles I’m here. I guess I’m gonna have to go hiking. Pack your bags, we’re going on a picnic…”

*****

Buffy rode in the car with Giles. They had been driving almost an hour. She finally saw the huge mountain.

“That’s it?” Buffy asked him, pointing at it.

Giles nodded as he swerved to the right and stepped harder on the accelerator.

They found a spot in the desert hidden from the harsh sun thanks to a huge palm tree.

They didn’t waste any time. Buffy strapped on her safety harnesses, picked up a pickaxe and started the climb.

“Be careful.” Giles told her as she started her ascent. She looked back at him and nodded. “Have you done this before?”

“No, but how hard can it be?”

The mountain wasn’t that high. Buffy guessed it would only take her about 15-20

minutes to reach the top.

Halfway up, Buffy started panting exhausted from the trek. She paused and looked behind her to the far horizon. It was amazing. Everything looked so small from there. She barely made out Giles’ car. Taking in a deep breath, she continued her journey.

Ten minutes later, Buffy felt her arms beginning to ache. She had stopped looking up trying to calculate how much was left. She just continued up and up and up. She thought of the movies then and how they always said: ‘don’t look down.’ She smiled. ‘Don’t look up’ was a better phrase. Because every time she looked up, she felt she’d never reach the top.

Finally her hand clutched a flat sandy surface. Yes, finally!

Buffy put up her other arm and pulled herself up on the ledge, breathing hard and wiping the sweat from her forehead.

She looked around. The ledge she was on wasn’t very big. Ahead was a dead end she could use to climb up the mountain even more. Sigh, more climbing Buffy thought.

She walked forward to the wall and hooked her hands into two gaps in the rocks and pulled herself up. There was a loud grating noise then as the wall started moving. Buffy immediately jumped back as the wall began to sink into the ground, opening up a secret entrance.

She grinned to herself, quickly getting up and heading into the new entrance.

It was dark inside, at first the light from the outside had guided her, but now she walked forward slowly, her arms outstretched in case she bumped into a wall. A few times she even blinked to make sure her eyes were actually open. But the torture ended a few minutes later when she finally got to a huge room lit by fire-torches on the walls. It was curved at the top almost like a huge spherical room. She quickly hid in the dark when she saw a huge creature lying in the center of the room.

Observing it, she gathered it was some sort of red-skinned reptilian with its huge tail. The sounds of snoring could be heard where Buffy stood. It was asleep.

“Perfect opportunity.” Buffy whispered as she crept into the room. Behind the creature, she saw a big rock pedestal and something precious was on top of it. She squinted her eyes, trying to make it out. At first she thought it was a bone-leftovers from this creature’s food-but on second inspection she knew immediately what it was. The Horn.

Buffy began sneaking forward, walking around the creature using the circumference of the room as her ruler. She finally got to the pedestal and got a clearer view of the horn. It was magnificent its workmanship. No scratches or dirt or grime. It was flawless. Looking back at the sleeping creature one more time, Buffy crept forward and picked up the horn using the palms of both her hands. She closed her eyes, bracing for some alarm or something bad to happen.

She opened them again. Nothing had happened.

Smiling, she quickly turned around. She wasn’t prepared for the extra weight of the horn though. As she stepped down from the pedestal, her right foot slipped on some loose gravel. In a microsecond, she lost her balance and stumbled forward landed right on the creature’s head.

Needless to say, the creature woke up and immediately raised its head, throwing Buffy off of her. The creature got up on all four legs, expanding its huge wings and raising its huge head. Smoke rose from its nostrils as it protruded its large sharp teeth. Now Buffy knew what this monster was-a Dragon.

“Um, sorry?” Buffy choked.

The Dragon roared loudly, as Buffy heard fire whooshing through the Dragon’s nose. She immediately examined her surrounds, but she was cornered, the dragon was covering her entire path to the exit.

“Who dares touch the Horn of Praecor Loth?!” Buffy was surprised to see the Dragon’s mouth open and close as it talked to her. Its male voice was loud and growled with every syllable.

“Buffy Summers.” Buffy said, her voice low. When the Dragon didn’t react, she added, “The Slayer.” She shouted standing up proudly.

The Dragon registered a confused face.

“Slayer?” It asked.

Uh-oh. A dumb dragon, just what I need, Buffy thought.

“Slay-er. The Chosen One? She who—“

“Silence!” Buffy immediately stopped blabbering. “I know what a Slayer is.” The Dragon got closer to her and sniffed her. A look of recognition went on its face. “Indeed you are the Slayer.”

Buffy felt a pang of relief hit her then that she knew she wasn’t going to end up as a barbeque kebab for a Dragon.

“So, if it’s ok with you, I’ll just be on my way—“ Buffy said, motioning forward. The Dragon blocked her path with his huge wings.

“Only those worthy can leave with my Horn.”

Buffy did a double take.

“Wait a minute. Your horn?” Buffy asked. The Dragon nodded. “You’re Praecor Loth? Aren’t you supposed to be, um, human?” What Buffy said clearly angered the Dragon as smoke rose from his nostrils and he opened his mouth ready to fire. Buffy closed her eyes and braced for the worst.

“Sorceresses did this to me.” He had, well, sort of cooled off. But he got angry again. “Now answer my question or I shall have you for dinner.” Buffy gulped. “Why do you take the horn?”

Buffy paused a second to think.

“I need it to save a friend.” The Dragon stared at her. Buffy thought she felt herself getting mesmerized by his eyes as he looked deep into her soul and her heart. Prying at her hidden thoughts and emotions. Her wounds and sorrows. Her loves and losses.

“Do you love this friend?” He asked.

Buffy looked down, shyly, trying to avoid the question.

“Um…err.” Was all she managed to mutter.

The Dragon then laughed at her. It was a quieter laugh, almost a chuckle.

“Indeed.” He growled. Buffy looked back up at him. There was a grin on his face. Did he already know the answer? “Take it.” He blinked a few times as he walked backwards, giving her some space.

Buffy looked at him inquisitively.

“So I’m worthy?” She asked.

“Stop asking questions before I change my mind.” He growled, his nostrils literally flaring.

Buffy immediately headed to the exit. Once there she paused and looked back at him. She saw a sad look on his face as he slumped back on the floor for his slumber.

“How long have you been here?” She asked. The Dragon faced her, about to shout at her. Instead he replied.

“Feels like forever.”

Buffy nodded and inspected the room. She knocked on the stone and rubbed the loose gravel with her fingers. It should do, right?

“I’m getting you out of here.” Buffy told him, walking back to him.

The Dragon had a confused look on his face.

“Why would you do such a thing?”

“I am The Worthy One, remember?” She grinned. The Dragon grinned as well.

“You’re a strange Slayer. Much different than the last one.” He nodded, recalling long memories.

“Tell me about them once we’re out of here.” She reminded him. The Dragon extended his wing. Buffy climbed on to him.

“Almost like riding a horse.” Buffy said to herself.

“I’ll take that as an insult.” The Dragon growled.

“Hold on tight.” Buffy told him as she raised the horn to her mouth. “And kiss this place goodbye.”

She blew the horn. The sound it made was LOUD. She used her free hand to cover her left ear as she continued to blow. The whole room started to shake and rocks began to fall from the ceiling.

“Here we go!” Loth shouted as he jumped up and they began to fly avoiding falling rocks. They ascended all the way to the roof, where a gap had formed. Buffy blew the horn again, making a huge enough gap in the ceiling for them to fly out of it. At the same time, the mountain began to collapse.

They flew out of the whole and into the brightness of the day.

That’s it. They were free!

Buffy screamed with joy as they flew above the mountain.

“Get me down at the bottom, I have someone waiting there.” She had to shout for him to hear her as she pointed downwards. Loth went for a vertical dive; they made it to the ground in just 5 seconds.

The whole mountain was shaking by then and a second later the whole thing had collapsed sending rubble and sand everywhere.

Buffy immediately got off the dragon and searched for Giles.

“Giles!? Giles!?” She shouted looking around.

She saw his car a few feet away. He was in the driver’s seat, waving at her. Immediately she sprinted to his car, panting heavily but excited as well.

“I did it, Giles! I got the horn.” She showed it to him proudly.

Giles face was as white as a ghost.

“Well done, but please next time you decide to slay a mountain, tell me beforehand?”

Buffy chuckled.

“It’s good you backed away in time!” She offered.

“If I had waited another second, I’d probably be buried a few feet under the ground.” Buffy bit her lip innocently. He sighed, “Go on, get in the car—Oh GOD!”

Loth had approached them.

“Back away vile beast!” He shouted, as he grabbed Buffy’s arm. “Get in the car, quick!”

Buffy shrugged him off.

“Giles! Relax, that’s Praecor Loth.”

The Dragon cleared his throat.

“It’s actually Sir Praecor Loth.”

Giles shook his head.

“It talks too.”

Buffy grinned at Loth and shrugged her shoulders.

“Don’t mind him, he’s British.” She put one hand next to her mouth as she spoke.

“I heard that.” Giles said, crossing his arms.

“Well, Buffy Summers,” Loth said, straightening up, “I must offer you my gratitude and respect and loyalty. For a thousand years, no one has been worthy enough to take the horn. You are twice as worthy as any other for freeing me as well when you could’ve left with just the horn.” Buffy blushed. “I am forever indebted to your service.”

“Well, you could start off by telling me about those other Slayers.”

Loth nodded.

“First, I must find a river to quench my thirst. I have not drunk for a millennia.”

“Well, you are a Dragon. You don’t need wat—“ Loth growled at Giles and silenced him.

“Farewell, Buffy Summers.” As he was about to leap forward, he paused, “One quick piece of advice, Slayer.” Buffy lifted her eyebrows, “don’t let your mind interfere with your heart.” There was a sly grin on his face. Then, with one giant leap, he flew away and out of sight.

They both watched him in silence as he flew away magnificently.

“Next time we go on a picnic, Buffy,” She turned to him, “let me do the planning?” Giles said.

Buffy smiled as she got into the passenger seat. She lay the horn on her lap, a serious look on her face.

“It’s time to save a friend.”

Giles shifted the car into drive, and they headed back home…

*****

They had headed back home in the same time it had taken to leave. Buffy immediately called Willow and told her to prepare the spell.

“Will, I got the horn. Can you meet me here to prepare for the spell before we go to the cemetery?” Buffy asked, speaking into the phone rapidly.

“Sure, I’ll be there in a few minutes.”

“Thanks, Will.” Buffy said and hung up the phone.

She was very excited. They were finally going to bring back Spike!

“I don’t think I’ve ever seen you more excited than you are now.” Dawn said from behind her. Buffy tried to hide her smile, to prove Dawn wrong. It didn’t work. “You can’t hide it from me, big sis!” Dawn tried scolding her.

“Hey are those new earrings?” Buffy asked, noticing Dawn’s sparkling earrings for the first time. Dawn immediately looked away, embarrassed. Buffy didn’t understand why.

“Um, sort of…er, yeah they are.” Dawn stumbled trying to explain why she had borrowed Anya’s earrings a while back.

“They look very pretty on you.”

“Thank you.”

There was a knock on the door just then.

“Is that Will?” Dawn asked.

Buffy shrugged and went to open the door.

“It’s horrible!” Anya cried as she went straight on in to the house.

“Why don’t you come in…” Buffy said under her breath.

Anya began pacing.

“I can’t take this anymore. I just can’t…” Anya burst into tears just then.

“Dawn why don’t you go upstairs.” Buffy told her. Dawn nodded and headed up. This was getting too much for Anya. Buffy usually dismissed it as idle wedding pressure. But this was beginning to get too much.

“Sit down.” Buffy told Anya. She nodded as they both sat on the couch. “What happened?” Buffy asked.

Anya shook her head trying to explain.

“Xander doesn’t want to have sex with me! And he said I should pull my weight more around the house, Buffy. What kind of man says such a thing.”

Buffy sighed. She really didn’t want to meddle with her personal life…

“Anya just be patient with Xander—“

“No!” Anya shouted, getting up. “I’ve had enough with, being patient with him or giving him the benefit of the doubt. I’m done with this!” Buffy saw the serious look on Anya’s face. Then she heard those dreaded words Buffy thought she’d never hear. “If only I had my powers I’d show him—“

Just as Buffy was about to scold her for even thinking such things, the door knocked.

“Just stay here for a minute, Anya.” Buffy said as she got up to open the door.

“Hey, Buff.” Willow greeted her.

“Come in.”

Willow came in with a grocery bag full of their required ingredients.

“I’m ready for the spell.” Willow asserted her.

“Good. I’ll be right back, just let me change my clothes.” Buffy told her, as she shot up the stairs.

Willow stood idly by. She noticed Anya.

“Hey, why so gloomy?” Willow asked her.

“Men suck.”

“Well, kay…”

Anya suddenly eyed Willow’s grocery bag.

“What’sha got in there?”

“Some herbs, candles and spell book.” Willow said, rummaging through it.

Anya got up and walked over to Willow.

“Can I have a look?” Anya asked, innocently.

Willow shrugged and handed it to her.

“Why the sudden interest in magic? Say, you wanna be a wicca?” Willow asked her getting interested.

“No.” Anya replied.

“M’kay.”

Willow folder her coat back, stretching. A reflection of some small talisman caught Anya’s eye. Willow turned around. Perfect opportunity, Anya thought.

Anya immediately dropped the candle in front of Willow

“Oops.” She said.

As Willow went down to pick it up for her, Anya snuck her hand into Willow’s coat and nicked the talisman.

“Here.” Willow said as she placed the candle back in the bag.

“I’m all set.” Buffy said as she ran down the stairs.

“Let’s go!” Willow replied. She opened the door and walked out, “see ya, Anya!”

“Bye!” Anya replied back.

“We hopefully won’t be gone long.” Buffy told Anya. “Don’t do anything funny.” She added whispering so only Anya could hear. She nodded and they left.

But they left without noticing the sly grin on Anya’s face, and the D’Hoffryn talisman hidden in the palm of her hand…

*****

It was dark now as Buffy and Willow trotted through the streets of Sunnydale. It was eerily quiet.

“What kind of evil plan do you think he’s hatching up?” Willow asked, breaking the silence.

Buffy knew exactly what she was talking about.

“I was about to ask you the same thing.”

A few more minutes passed in silence as they continued their walk.

“Will?” Willow turned her attention to her. “What if the spell doesn’t work?” Willow forced a smile.

“Do you have to always think negatively, Buffy?”

“That’s what keeps me alive…well most of the time.” There was hint of sarcasm in her voice.

They finally got to Spike’s crypt. There above it, stood his statue proudly. Buffy immediately saw her tear that was still visible on his cheek. She hated seeing him like this.

“You have the horn?” Willow asked as she plopped her bag down and began taking out the ingredients.

“Right here.” Buffy took it out of her backpack. It was still as flawless as before, and still as heavy.

“Just let me get ready, then blow it as I cast the spell.” Willow told her.

Buffy nodded.

“Just make sure to cover your ear if you can. This thing’s loud.”

Another minute later, Willow began humming some words. Buffy saw her eyes turn black as she then turned to face her.

“Now.” Willow said.

Without wasting another second, Buffy took a deep breath and blew the horn. She saw Willow almost stumble forward, unprepared for its loud noise. But she didn’t waste another second as she began her Flesh Rejuvenation spell. White electricity shot out of her hand towards the statue as the statue itself rumbled and shook.

Buffy’s face changed to fear as she saw a crack run halfway through the statue. If it broke into half, it would be the end.

Buffy blew again, this time so long that she almost passed out.

She watched as the stone statue cracked into smaller pieces and gravel began falling off it.

“I think it’s working!” Buffy shouted.

Willow continued chanting and sending out her rays of light. She saw the toll it was taking on Willow as well.

Buffy stopped blowing it and waited. Her ears were still ringing from the echo of the noise. She even saw some gravestones begin to crack.

Come on, Spike.

Finally some hope came, as the parts that began to crumble turned pale-ish-brown. First his head became visible, then slowly the rest of his body.

Uh-oh, Buffy thought. If he can’t control himself, he’ll fall right off. She immediately sprinted forward and just in the nick of time, caught him as he fell. The feel of him in her arms, felt so good. He was back. But he was unusually cold and shivering beneath her.

“Spike?” She whispered into his ear. He looked up at her, his eyes a permanent fixture of fear. But then her tear on his face rolled down and he remembered her again.

“Are you an angel?” He asked. Buffy smiled at him feeling a tear come on.

“Oh, Spike.” She hugged him tighter surprised at herself for the emotions she was feeling and the relief of having him back.

In the back, Willow stumbled forward on to her knees, panting heavily. She felt a change in her body. Something was happening to her, she wasn’t sure what. Something primal, evil and dangerous. She suddenly felt very scared.

“Will?” Buffy asked as she finished embracing Spike.

Willow immediately hid her fear as she got up.

“You ok?” Buffy asked.

Willow nodded, still panting.

Spike walked in from behind Buffy, holding her hand.

“Thanks.” He told them.

Buffy looked deep in to his eyes and felt her mended heart begin to race.

“Let’s go home.” She told them as they skipped towards the exit.

None of them noticed Willow’s extreme hunger, growing every second that passed.

*****

“Anya!” Xander banged on Willow and Tara’s dorm room. He had been searching for her all over Sunnydale. “Anya!” He shouted again.

The door opened and Tara stood there in her pajamas. Xander suddenly felt embarrassed.

“Sorry, Tara.”

“It’s ok.”

“Look have you seen Anya?”

Tara shook her head.

“I haven’t.”

He sighed.

“Something’s up. I think she’s gone off the deep end.”

“Did you check Buffy’s house?” Tara offered.

“Nah, next stop.” He started to leave. “Thanks.” She nodded at him as she closed the door.

Xander hurried his pace. There was a nagging thought in the back of his mind.

That maybe he was already too late…

*****

“Blessed be the name of D’Hoffryn.” Anya chanted, holding the talisman in front of her.

Nothing happened.

“Grr, blessed be the name of D’Hoffryn…” Still nothing happened. “Stupid vengeance demons.” Anya muttered.

She started to rub the talisman subconsciously. She began to feel something tingle under her palm as she was then engulfed in a white light and found herself floating in a pitch-black room.

“Willow Rosen—“ A voice cut-off midway after noticing Anya. Ahead she made out the face of a vengeance demon-D’Hoffryn, the bastard. “Anyanka.” He muttered, displeased. “Leave us, you have no use to us anymore.” He waved with his arms attempting to cast her away.

“Wait a minute! Look I’ll do anything this time. Please!”

D’Hoffryn folded his arms, waiting. He always loved hearing pain the mortals felt.

“I’m getting married to a vile, cheating man. Me, Anyanka, the most wicked vengeance demon in the world, granted thousands of wishes to female victims has now become a victim. And she hates it! All of it.” She shouted getting hysterical. “Just give me my job back. Please?”

D’Hoffryn sighed and began to rub his chin, thoughtfully.

“You have learned your lesson, Anyanka. I can feel your pain. It has transcended dimensions. But I am unsure whether it is simply pain caused by love which can be healed. If it is that, then I will not let you have your powers again to disgrace our race once more.”

Anya thought hard. So many things crossed her mind. Xander’s face (and a few other private Xander bits), but also her past. It wasn’t easy to let go off. A thousand years was such a long time. So much had happened in those years. She felt like she was acting as this mortal these past 3 years. Like a puppet.

Suddenly immortality sounded so good. Falling back on something familiar would make things better. Wouldn’t it?

Then she felt the pain in her heart again. She would do anything to make it stop.

“It isn’t. Please, just do it.” She pleaded.

“Fine.”

Anya continued to stare at him for a few seconds.

“What, that’s it?” She asked.

“Find your power core and use it the same way you did your necklace.”

“How do I know what it is?” She asked as she felt the room getting smaller. He was teleporting her back to Earth.

“That is up to you.” His voice was so far away now.

The whole room finally folded in on itself and Anya opened her eyes, panting heavily. She was back in Buffy’s living room, on the floor, cross-legged.

“Anya? What’sha doing?” Dawn asked, standing at the foot of the stairs confused. Her earrings were sparkling from the light of the chandelier. Anya did a double take, noticing the earrings were eerily familiar.

“Um, just some meditation thing.” She quickly came up with an excuse. “Dawn, could you come here a sec?” Anya asked her.

Dawn looked at her confused, then remembered the earrings she was wearing. Oh no, she knows I took them!

Anya started to get up. Dawn wanted to run upstairs and lock herself in the bedroom, but her legs wouldn’t respond. Anya got closer.

“Um, I think I have some home-homework…to…do.” Dawn’s voice trembled as she saw for the first time, a threatening look on Anya’s face.

“Don’t worry, I won’t hurt you.” Dawn hardly believed her. Finally her legs responded and she began running up the stairs. She felt Anya scratch her bare arm as she tried to grab her.

Immediately Anya began running after her.

Dawn’s short legs were her undoing as Anya grabbed her a few steps up and held her still. She became hysterical trying to squirm her way out of Anya’s strong hold.

“Dawn, stop! Just give me the earrings!”

Dawn stopped wiggling and used her free hand to take them off.

“Take them!” She flung them at her. Anya immediately let her go as she bent down to pick them up. She quickly clung them to each ear.

She felt new power begin to course through her veins. She then felt her face and body begin to mutate into her demon form.

Anyanka was back.

“Oh my god.” Dawn gasped at the site before her.

Anyanka grinned at her as her voice rasped angrily.

“Thank you, Dawn. Now I shall give you the privilege of being the first one to be granted a wish.”

Dawn gulped.

“Just a wish? Is that all you want?” Anyanka grabbed her shoulders and smiled.

“What harm ever came from making a wish?”

“Um…” Dawn thought hard. She had everything she wanted. She wouldn’t dare ask to get her mom back. She didn’t want anything.

“Make a wish!” She demanded as she shook her.

“Ok, ok.” Dawn whimpered, “I wish Buffy could see how much she really loves Spike.”

Anyanka paused a minute, and sighed. She wished it could’ve been something much more dangerous and exciting. But whenever the words ‘I wish’ were uttered, she had to comply. But, oh yes, she would make the wish exciting and dangerous. Making people tell the truth in all sorts of colorful ways could be deliciously painful.

“Done.”

*****

Xander knocked on Buffy’s front door and waited. No answer.

“Hello!” He shouted and knocked again. “Buffy, it’s me Xander!”

He tried the doorknob, and surprisingly it opened. There he found Dawn sitting at the bottom of the stairs, sobbing.

“Dawn, what’s wrong?” He quickly put an arm around her to comfort her. She looked up at him, the tears smudging her view. “Oh, Xander. It was horrible…Anya..”

“What about Anya?” He cut her off, getting worried. She sniffled.

“She’s not Anya any more.” She whispered.

Xander continued to look at her confused.

Dawn sighed, and wiped away her tears.

“She’s Anyanka.”

Xander’s mouth gaped open in shock and he looked down at the floor feeling ashamed. It was his fault. He drove her to this. He had been an uncaring, selfish fiancé’. However way she’d done it, Xander would blame himself. He had actually, once braced for the day this would happen. But that had been a long time ago, before he fell in love with her. Now it all seemed so out-of-the-blue.

“No…” He whispered, rubbing his eyes.

“It’s true.” Dawn said.

It just hadn’t sunk in yet. He would have to see for himself.

“She said something about the Bronze.” Dawn added.

“Ok, let’s call Tara and tell her where we’re going.” Xander said, getting up.

Dawn complied, running to the phone.

Xander stood, praying everything would be alright.

*****

Buffy, Spike and Willow had completely detoured from going back home. Halfway there, Willow had insisted they go to the Bronze saying she was absolutely starved for food.

At first Buffy simply told her they’d cook something up at home. But her insistence became nagging, then turning – different. Her voice became forceful, ordering them to go there. Buffy thought she even heard Willow’s stomach growl a few times along the way.

“That’s basically how I got it.” Buffy finished telling Spike her adventures to get the horn.

“Sounds exciting. Wish I could’a been there with you, love.” He told her, eyeing her intensely. She softly held his hand in hers as they walked through the Bronze’s main entrance.

“You were.” She whispered to him. Suddenly she felt happy they had gone to the Bronze. A little R&R was everything she needed. And spending it with Spike? Well, that was just a bonus.

Willow ran ahead of them and went straight to the bar.

“Gimme your biggest steak.” She ordered.

“It’ll be a 15 minute wait.” The waiter told her. Willow grinded her teeth together, salivating with the thought of juicy red meat.

“Just hurry up.”

Buffy and Spike found an empty table and sat on the stools next to each other. None of them minded that their bodies touched. Buffy rested her hand on the table.

“It must have been painful for you.” He said softly.

“Staking you or hearing you calling me those names?” She asked sarcastically. Spike kept his straight face, deadly serious.

“That wasn’t me you know.” He told her.

She nodded.

“I know.”

Spike reached out and covered her hand. Buffy felt her hand tingle with electricity. He moved his hand further up her arm, sending pleasuring signals to her brain. She felt her breathing accelerate.

“Hey guys.” Willow plopped down next to them, spoiling their intimate moment. They both straightened up and cleared their throats. “I feel like I could eat a horse.” She shook her head, actually imagining eating one—yuck! What’s wrong with me? Willow thought.

Just then the band finished their song and everyone in the audience cheered and clapped.

Something strange happened to both Buffy and Spike then. They felt something go through their bodies and they both felt the urge to get up and…sing.

“May I?” Spike asked, getting up. He offered his hand to her. She clasped it with her own as she got up.

“You may.”

They got up on the stage, and the band magically began to play a song for them. Spike stepped up to the mike.

“Um, guys?” Willow said in the background. Everyone in the Bronze ignored her.

Spike began swaying left and right to the rhythm. When his cue came, he raised his voice.

“I could never commit / such a hateful crime,” He started, the trumpet playing loudly in the background. “For a man who scorns you should be staked on site.” He smiled loosening up. The audience began to clap. “There you stand / so vibrant so beautiful,” He paused, admiring Buffy’s glowing eyes, “/ so grand.”

Just then Xander and Dawn entered the Bronze. Their eyes immediately turned to the stage where everyone else had their attentions focused.

“Oh my god.” Dawn said before beginning to giggle.

“This is unreal.” Xander said to himself.

They continued to watch.

“But you were always the one who let me down,” A few guys in the audience cheered as Buffy approached Spike “/ The one I counted on, the one I missed,” She grabbed the second mike, “you were content to let me shine.”

The music got faster as the piano started to play.

“Buffy you make my heart beat / You make my demon sleep / Give me one chance / and I promise you this / I will love you till the end of time.”

Buffy shook her head at him as she started her come back.

“I’ve been scorned so many times / Loved and Lost so many times / I cannot let you in / You are a demon / I’m the Slayer.”

The audience continued to clap, their faces hopeful that their favorite couple could work this out.

“But I am not like any Demon / I will never go back / My Love has changed me for the better / I see that now / I will love you till the end of time.”

A few girls in the audience cheered loudly. “Go Spike!”

“I can’t do this / These are only words / But what I feel I can’t explain / You make me feel like I could love again / Even if it takes a lifetime / I will love again.”

Spike smiled, this was finally getting somewhere!

“If we do this / I promise you one thing…” Spike sang. They got closer, Buffy

eyeing him closely.

“What’s that?”

“I will love you till the end of time / For you are Buffy / And you have slain my heart.”

The sounds of saxophones grew louder as the audience grew quiet waiting for that magical moment.

“Kiss him!” Dawn screamed from the back waving and jumping up and down. “Kiss her!” A couple of guys shouted. Buffy and Spike inched closer.

“No.” Buffy pulled away.

There were several “nooo!” and “aaahs” in the audience.

Spike looked down, ashamed. There was only one thing left to do to make her see, to make her believe to make her…give in to the truth she kept burying deep in her heart.

“Buffy /” The audience grew quiet, attentive. A band member began banging a drum, in a slow rhythm. “Do you love me?”

Buffy froze, staring at him. This was it. This was the moment when everything would change, when she would stop lying to herself. She had been avoiding this question, these feelings for so many years. She couldn’t lie now even if she wanted to. And for a moment, she was glad this happened. She needed that extra push, to make her finally admit one thing she didn’t think was possible. Something beyond comprehension, beyond time beyond anything she ever felt before.

She loved Spike.

“No.” Came her reply. She was as stunned as everyone else in the audience. Spike registered a hurt look in his eyes. That’s when Spike decided that this was that--time to leave town. “I am desperately, hopelessly, in love with you.” Spike looked back up at her, smiling happily.

“And I love you.” He replied back.

“KISS / KISS / KISS!” Came the cheers from the audience. Xander and Dawn joined in with the cheering. Neither Buffy nor Spike wanted to ever delay this any more. They came running towards each other. Buffy threw herself at him, laying fast and quick kisses to his lips. Spike did the same assaulting her with his hands, feeling ever crevice and soft skin.

“Woooo!” The audience clapped and cheered enjoying the show.

A few seconds later, Buffy withdrew, out of breath. Her face was flushed red and her lips were white. Spike pulled away, holding her hand softly.

Then they both bowed in front of the audience as the cheers and clapping got louder. A few girls screamed Spike’s name while a couple of guys whistled loudly. This was better than any Broadway show in the world. Even Willow found herself clapping and cheering.

Suddenly Buffy and Spike blinked, registering what had happened. The spell had finally broken, they both wanted to step down from the stage. They went back to their table, dazed and confused…but still completely in love with each other. They remembered every moment.

“That was great!” Willow squealed as they came back to the table. Spike didn’t take his eyes off of Buffy all the way there. She sat on his lap not wanting to stop touching him, feeling his every bicep.

“Don’t know where that came from.” Buffy said, nuzzling Spike with her nose.

“Where what came from? Your love for me or the singing?” Spike asked, teasingly.

She giggled.

“Who says I love you?”

“Come ‘ere.” She bit his lip as they savaged each other with hot and heavy kisses. Spike’s hand went under her shirt, almost reaching her right breast when…

“Guys, get a room!” Willow interrupted. Spike pulled back his hand, but the kiss lingered for a few more seconds. A waiter then came up with a plate of food. “Yummy.” Willow said.

“On the house.” The waiter told her.

“Thanks!” Willow immediately picked up the knife and fork and began to annihilate her steak. She put a huge piece in to her mouth and began to chew loudly. “Yuck.” She said. It tasted awful. But it looked so good and had been cooked well. What was wrong with her taste buds?

“Maybe you’re not hungry any more?” Buffy offered, not taking her eyes off Spike. He winked at her.

Willow put down the fork and pushed the plate away, disgusted. Her stomach growled.

“No I’m still hungry.”

“Guys, guys!” They heard Xander from the back, pushing his way through the crowds.

Buffy looked behind Spike and saw Dawn running towards them her arms open. She hugged them both squeezing them tight.

“I’m so happy for you guys!” She said, pulling back. Buffy and Spike looked at each other again, beaming proudly.

“We’re happy too.” Buffy whispered.

“Guys, Anya’s a demon again.” Buffy looked seriously at Xander.

“What do you mean?”

“I’m saying she’s back and she already granted Dawn a wish. Thankfully it wasn’t a dangerous one.” He did a double take, “Actually it was.” He grinned.

“What was the wish, pet?” Spike asked Dawn.

Dawn giggled trying to avoid the question.

Just then Tara came up.

“Tara!” Willow said as they embraced each other.

“Ouch!” Tara yelped and pulled back. “You bit me.” She whispered. Willow’s tongue moved left and right in her mouth. She nodded, a distant look in her eyes. “It hurt.”

Tara’s hand went to her neck, feeling her wound.

“I’m bleeding.” Her fingers were bloody. Tara looked at Willow, hurt.

“Sorry?” Willow offered, not meaning it very much.

No one noticed their interactions.

“Do you guys know where she is?” Buffy asked Xander. He shrugged observing the crowds.

“Dawn told her something about the Bronze.” They all sat around the table. Xander had his head down, ashamed. “It’s my fault. I shouldn’t have been ignoring her.” They all let him say what needed to be said. But he should have been saying it more to Anya than them. “I have to get her back. I miss her.” He began to rub his eyes. “It kills me to say this, but I envy you guys.” Xander said, looking at Buffy and Spike who had already restarted ravaging each other. Spike nibbled her earlobe as Buffy closed her eyes, absorbing every pleasurable touch completely oblivious to everyone around them. “Knock it off guys, you’re turning into me and Anya.”

Xander sighed, nostalgic.

At the entrance to the Bronze, Anyanka stood observing her former friends. She had heard every word Xander had said, and something inside her felt longing and love for him. But she was a demon again, they weren’t suppose to love, or feel. Just kill and cause chaos. But look at that Demon, Spike. If they could do it, why couldn’t she and Xander?

Xander. Somehow every memory she had with him had been subdued into the back of her mind. She tried to recall him, struggling hard. She remembered every moment, every kiss and every hug. For a few seconds she wished she could be standing right there next to him, feeling every part of his body.

Something told her to move her hands to her ears, to pull at the searing-hot earrings that controlled her. Her arms felt like they weighed a ton as she struggled to unclasp her earrings.

“Anya.” Came Xander’s voice. It was so low, so far away. But it came again. “Anya.” She closed her eyes, trying to relax her mind figuring it was just her brain playing tricks with her.. Then she felt a hand on each shoulder. She opened her eyes.

“Xander?” She immediately tried backing away, not wanting him to see her Demon form.

“Hey hold on a minute.” He said, trying not to be too forceful. She paused, staring at the floor hiding her hideous face.

“I don’t want you to see me like this.”

He shook his head and shushed her.

“You’re still as beautiful as the first day I saw you.”

She looked up at him, a tear streaming down her demon-cheek.

“Xander I’m so sorry.”

“Shhh.” He caressed her cheek. “I’m sorry too.” Then, looking deep into her eyes, “I want to make a wish.”

She paused,

“What do you mean?”

“A wish, Anya.”

“But I can’t grant wishes to men.” She said, shaking her head.

“Just try. Maybe you think you can’t, cause you never tried?”

She gulped.

“Say the words.” She told him.

It took him only a second to think.

“I wish my beloved Anya was human again.”

She continued to stare at him, unsure what to do. But as always, she had to comply.

“Done.”

*****

A few miles away underneath Sunnydale High School, the First Evil stirred in a cavern, resting and healing from the wounds the Slayer had inflicted. Around him, several demons stood, obedient to their ruler. His priests, who had escaped Willow’s wrath sat in the corner, chanting. They were the ones who had created the escape door for him when he had called on the First Slayer. They deserved a place on his right side.

The past 2 weeks had been perfect. He was now rested and had finished the plan for their final assault, not just on Sunnydale but on the whole world. See the problem with other Evil entities was they always concentrated on Sunnydale. Home of the Slayer. That’s why they failed. But the First Evil would succeed. He was too smart.

In walked a pink-colored Demon, taking large proud strides.

He bowed before the First Evil and then went down on one knee.

“You have something to tell me, Werdna?” The master asked.

Werdna morphed back into his human form.

“Yes, master.” Andrew said. “I have found the perfect opportunity.” There was an evil grin on his face. His master was pleased.

Soon, the world would bleed…

As they would open every Hellmouth from here to the edge of the world…

The Legacy of the Fireman