Buffy: Innocent Blood Chapter 7

8/6/2019 Buffy: Innocent Blood Chapter 7

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Chapter Seven

August 4th, 1998

Los Angeles

The blood had already soaked into the wood as it had slowly dribbled its way toward theground. Dimly Tola wondered if it actually puddled on the asphalt at the base of the pole, orwhether his thick blood dried before it could reach the ground.

He was exhausted, and in terrible pain. He had tried for the better part of an hour to pullthe wooden stake out of his hand, but the bitch Slayer had nailed his left hand to the pole. Justmy luck Im a southpaw. His right arm lacked the strength to remove it, though the splintersunder his fingernails attested to the fact that he had, indeed, tried very hard to loosen the stake.But it wouldnt budge.

He could almost feel daylight approaching. He knew that the gang of hunters had started

patrolling later in the evening, with just this purpose in mind; several of his friends had beenroasted alive by the sun, and though they left little trace, he could tell the difference between avampire who had been staked, and one that had been burned. Tola had been a doctor before hehad been turned, and he retained those skills and memories. Well, Ill retain them for anothertwenty minutes or so, he thought as he saw the faintest strip of pink start to appear on the easternhorizon. This is a really terrible way to die.

He wrenched at the stake again with the last of his strength, but it didnt move at all. Hehung his head and let his body sag. Though his hand gave him excruciating pain, whichincreased as he slowly took the weight off his feet, he could barely stand any more. With anyluck he would pass out from the aching and wouldnt notice when the sunlight touched his body,incinerating his flesh and consuming him utterly. Yeah, Ill sleep through that. I doubt it.

He heard feet approaching and tried to look up; but all he could see were pairs of bootsand shoes, five or six of them, all wearing long coats despite the mugginess of the early morning.Come to finish me off? he croaked, his parched throat and mouth making his voice sound likeit came from a frog.

He received no reply.This the one, pet? Spike asked, wrinkling his nose at the wretched sight of the vampire

on his knees in front of him. The area smelt of blood; Spike wondered that some other roguevampire hadnt happened upon this fellow first.He might wish one had, at that.

Thats him, Druscilla said, bending over to lift his head up. Hes the one I saw. Heknows.

Spike bent down on his haunches and gazed into the dull yellow eyes of a vampire morethan half dead. I dont know you, Spike said. So I dont care if you die. But I bet you do.

Tola nodded, his head barely moving.So heres the deal. We get you off this bloody-- no pun intended-- telephone pole and

take you someplace safe, and you tell us everything that happened. Then you answer all of Drusquestions, and you join my little band of merry men. Sound good?

Tola tried to speak, but no words issued from his parched throat.Its a one time offer, Spike told him. And you have about a minute before well be

forced to leave you. I really wouldnt dally with this one, mate.Tola managed to lift his head and look into Spikes dark eyes. Yes, he croaked.

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Spike patted him on the head. Good for you! He stood. Boys, get him down and intothe car. And make it quick. Spike gestured to the reddening sky. Ive been outside in sunlightbefore. I dont recommend it.

The men with Spike converged on Tola, wrenching the stake out of the telephone poleand hoisting the wounded vampires body up. They carried him toward the car.

Spike shook his head as he watched them. Youre sure this lot will lead us to thesekillers?

Positive, Druscilla assured him. Everybody knows its a bad idea to hide things fromme. She looked up at Spike and smiled.

Dru, honey, dont I know it, he said, kissing her, and sliding his arm around hershoulders as they headed for the car themselves.

*Shelley waved good-bye and opened the door of the van, setting the last jug down next to

the others on the floor. Rachel peered around her and squinted as the tall brown haired manturned away and entered the church.

Thats Reverend Camden? Rachel asked.Yep, Shelley said, sliding the jug against the wall of the van and opening the drivers

side door. Rachel clambered up into the passengers seat as Shelley started the van.I wonder what he thinks of you, Rachel said.Shelley pulled out of the parking space. I think hes still doing this on a sympathy kick.

My family went to his church, and Im sure hes still waiting for me to flip out over whathappened. She slid on her sunglasses. If he only knew how I really work through it...

Rachel smiled. Yeah, well... if anybody knew, really.Shelley nodded as she drove out onto the street. If Buffy can keep this up, though, we

wont have to worry about that too much longer. She glanced at Rachel. Were close, Rachel. Ican feel it.Thats not what Pike thinks, Rachel murmured.Shelley stopped at the light and turned to look at Rachel. How do you know what Pike

thinks?Rachel sank down in her seat. I heard you guys last night in the kitchen. She glanced

over at Shelley. You forgot I was unloadin the van when you bared your souls.Shelley shook her head. You werent supposed to hear that conversation.Newsflash, Rachel said. Supposed to dont mean squat in the face of did.You havent said anything to Buffy yet, have you?Rachel frowned. Yeah, right. Hey Buff, Pike thinks youre goin psycho on the

vampires. From now on were gonna send out invitations when we go hunting. The Slayer

requests the pleasure of your company, so she can stick a stake in your goddamned chest.Shelley hit the gas as the light changed. So you agree with me, that this is the right thing

to do?Rachel shrugged. I agree I dont want Buffy to leave. Whatever reasons you wanna pin

on it that keeps her here, fine.Rachel, Shelley said.Hey-- you have Pike. I dont have anybody. Im tired of bein alone. She held up a

hand. I know, Im not alone with you two. I got family, I know, I know. But it aint the same,



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Shell. You go to bed, and you have Pike right there to put his arms around you or whatever. Me,all I got is Buffy. I like havin a sister, or a best friend, or whatever the hell we are. So color meimmature, but thats where I stand.

Shelley considered Rachels words as she accelerated through the intersection. I thinkPike wants her to take a break from slaying.

Wasnt Pike the one who talked her back into slaying in the first place?Shelley chuckled. No, Rachel, that was you.Oh, the younger woman said.But we all had a hand in it. And we all have a stake in keeping her here, though Pike

doesnt see it that way.So whats he gonna do?Shelley came to a red light and stopped. She took off her sunglasses and rubbed her eyes.

I dont know, Rachel, she said softly. He slept in the den last night.What? Rachel asked. No shit.Shelley put her sunglasses back on. No shit. We were discussing it up in bed, and he got

mad and he grabbed a sheet and some pillows and left. She stared out the window. Hes neverdone that before.

Shell? Rachel asked.Hmm?Lights green. You can go now.Shelley nodded and drove off. Ive never seen him this upset with anything. She paused

and then she added, barely more than a whisper, With me.So whatta we do?Shelley sighed. I dont know, Rachel-- what if hes right? I dont think he is, but what if

Buffy is going too far? We got her into this. How the hell can we ask her to stop?Rachel spoke, Whattaya mean we, chief? I aint tellin Buffy anything like that. Im on

her side.Shelley sighed. So am I. I think shes right. But Pike is so determined with this. She

shook her head. It almost scares me how strongly he feels about this. I was shocked that he wentto sleep in the den last night.

Then it worked, Rachel said.What? Shelley asked.That was supposed to bother you. That was Pikes way of saying, Im so sure of this

that I cant be with you if youre not. That was his way of tellin you that hes balls to the wallserious.

I already knew that, Shelley told her.Yeah, Rachel agreed, but you havent been doubtin yourself before this, have you?No, Shelley replied. Not really.Rachel nodded. Like I said, it worked. He got you to think-- even if for just a sec-- that

he might not be wrong. Rachel lowered her sunglasses. Now he just plays the waiting game

and holes up in the den until you come to him to talk about it. Then hes gotcha.Shelley frowned. Pike wouldnt do that.Rachel laughed. Any guy will do that, Shell. Please.Pikes not like other guys, Shelley maintained. You know that.I know that, Rachel said, and you know that. But you think Pike remembers that

lately?You dont understand, Shelley said.I understand better than you do. Been there and done that, Shell.



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No, Shelley said. You dont understand, Rachel. Shelley stopped at another light andsaid, I mean more to him than anything in the world. I know that. Hes told me that. But moreimportantly, hes shown me that, many times. I dont even question it. And hes the mostimportant thing in my life.

And? Rachel prompted.And this is coming between us, Shelley sighed. And it hurts.Rachel looked out her window. Then you gotta decide where you stand, Shelley. You

wanna stand with the Slayer, or you wanna stand by your man?They made the rest of the trip home in silence.

*Given the number of appearances in this area, Buffy said, tracing a square on a section

of the large city map marked with the pins, Id say its a good bet that vampire central issituated somewhere within this eight block radius. She looked up at Shelley. What do you guysthink?

Its certainly possible, Rachel said, staring at the tight cluster of pins in the area Buffyhad traced.

Shelley? Buffy asked.It could be a trap, Shelley offered. We already know they know about us. The fact that

theyve tried to ambush us several times is proof of that. This might simply be a more elaborateset-up.

Buffy nodded. Pike?Pikes brown eyes gazed up at Buffy. It could be either. If its a ploy, its a really good

one. Better than theyve shown the ability to set up before this.Thats what I was thinking, Buffy said. Thats why Im pretty sure thats where home

is.So what do we do? Go knocking on the door and say, Excuse me, Mr. Vampire, but

wed like to wipe you out? Rachel asked.During the day tomorrow, Buffy said. Yeah.Excuse me? Pike asked.Come again? Shelley repeated for him.What? Buffy asked. Anyone here feel like charging into the vampires den during the

night? She stared at each one of them. Ive done it, and believe me, this sunlight stuff is a bighelp. Even if they do wake up, theyll be dizzy, disoriented, and easy pickins.

No one said anything.Come on, you guys, this is the big hoe-down, right? This is the big deal that this has all

been leading up to. All the raids, all the hunting, all the leaving them to die-- this is where it washeaded. We get them pissed, we get them to gather together, and then we break down the doors

and kick the shit out of them. Buffy looked at each one of them. No more vampires in L.A.None.

Sounds like a plan, Shelley said.What about tonight? Pike asked, his voice soft.Buffy looked at him. What about tonight?Whats the plan, Buff? he asked. Do we hang loose and sharpen spikes all evening, or

do we go hunting once it gets dark? Maybe leave a few more markers to make sure the vampiresknow where to go?



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Buffy frowned at Pike. You want vampires here?You know I dont, he replied.So what is this? Buffy asked him. Is this cold feet?No, Pike said.Then what is your problem? Buffy asked. You talked me into being the Slayer again.

And Ive done a damn good job slaying here. And now-- what, Pike, its no fun any more?Buffy, he started, but she cut him off.You think this is fun for me? You think what they did to Rachel was fun? You think

what they did to Shelley was fun?Pike stood. Buffy, now--She interrupted again. Theyre animals, Pike. Demons. They dont give a shit about you,

or Shelley, or Rachel, or anyone else, except maybe-- once in a while-- each other. They dontfeel like we feel. They dont care like we care. Theyre just here to hunt us down until they runout of food.

Pike stared at Buffy.Now maybe youre content to sit around and wait for that to happen. But Im not. Im

not gonna give them the chance to catch their breath. If that means pissing them off, then you

know what, Pike? Theyre gonna be pissed. It that means making some of them suffer, thatsfine. She clenched her fists. What about the suffering we had to go through? What about thepain we had to survive?

Shelley said, Buffy, were all on the same side here.Buffy turned on her. Then help me! Help me massacre these bastards! Then well all be

free of them. No more vampires, no more staying up all night, no more sharpening stakes. Sheturned to Rachel. No more sleeping on the floor.

Rachel reached over and took Buffys hand. Im in.Buffy looked at Shelley. The older girl looked at Pike, who stared at Buffy. She glanced

over at Buffy, then back at Pike.Pike? Shelley asked. Honey?Pikes eyes never left Buffys. No more leaving them out to roast, period. You wanna go

stake a dozen vampires tonight, fine, Im in. But you go out there tryin to get revenge onsomething, forget it. Im not gonna help you torture these things. Hell, Buffy, I know theyprobably deserve it. But if you do that, youre no better than they are.

Shelley closed her eyes.How dare you defend them, Buffy hissed.In fact, Pike said, youre worse than they are. What you said before is right, Buffy--

theyre animals. Demons. They dont know any better. You do. He glanced at Shelley, thenback at Buffy. You have a choice.

And my choice is make their last moments on earth as painful as possible, and put thefear of the Slayer in them.

Pike nodded. Then you do it without me. He turned and left the room.

Shelley? Buffy murmured.Shelleys dark eyes watched Pike leave, and a tear slid down her cheek. She inhaled

sharply and whispered, Im in.

*



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Spike leaned over the semi-conscious vampire and shook his head. Did he really losethat much blood? the vampire king asked.

Its hard to say, Curtis replied. He lost a lot, but I didnt think hed be this bad.Dru? Spike wondered aloud.Love? she replied. Spike turned away from the wounded vampire to gaze at Druscilla,

who hunched over on all fours.Dru, honey, what are you doing?When no response came, Spike strolled over to Druscilla. She sat on the floor on her

hands and knees, and her brown eyes sparkled with delight. Look, she said, extending a slimfinger at a tiny circle of sunlight the size of a quarter on the floor.

Very nice, Spike indulged her.Watch, she said, and she slid the tip of a finger into the sunlight. At once the skin on

her fingertip sizzled and a thin wisp of smoke rose up. Druscilla removed her finger and stuck itin her mouth.

Are you sure thats wise, darling? he asked, bending over.Finger still in her mouth, she shook her head. But its fun, she said, and she slid her

moist finger into the little patch of light on the floor, with much the same result. This time she

giggled for a moment before inserting her finger in her mouth.Pet, Spike said tenderly, I do hate to interrupt, but we need your help with Leftie over

there.Druscilla frowned. Why didnt you say so? she asked.Spike stroked her hair. You were having such fun. I didnt want to bother you.Druscilla smiled at him, and Spike felt his heart speed up just a bit. Youre so sweet,

she said. Always thinking of me.Spike smiled at her. I never think of anything but.So, Druscilla said, sliding her fingertip back into the light, what do you need my help

with?Spike watched her, shaking his head. Im afraid hes not coming around, and Curtis

thinks we might lose him. Hes the only one whos seen these hunters, and we need to knowwhat he knows.

Dru pulled her hand back again, sticking her finger in her mouth once more. She lookedup at Spike.

Doesnt that hurt? he asked her.Still sucking on her finger, Druscilla nodded yes.Will you be ready soon, dear?Druscilla blinked, withdrawing her hand from her mouth. You need my help now?If you can manage it, Spike told her.Spike, she said, smiling. Anything for you.He took her hand-- her good hand-- and said, Thats my Dru.They walked over to Tola, who still appeared mostly incoherent. Druscilla leaned over

him and slid his eyes open. The yellow color had almost completely faded to white, and hispupils had grown huge. Druscilla peered into his eyes, trying to see behind them into his brain,but darkness shrouded him from her.

He needs to eat, she said. Soon, or hell waste away.Spike swore rather colorfully under his breath. Nice bloody timing. He checked his

watch. Two-thirty in the afternoon. Only six hours until bloody sunset. Great. He took a seaton the edge of a table.

Curtis cleared his throat.



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Spike turned his gaze on the Dutchmans former henchman. Curtis has an idea, he said.Curtis nodded. Actually, Spike, I do.Spike raised his eyebrow. Well, dont be bashful, Curtis. Share it with us.Curtis said, Call for a pizza.Spike shrugged, pulling out a cigarette and lighting it. And?Ask for delivery.Spike looked up, surprised. I cant believe I never thought of that.Curtis cautioned, You cant use it too often-- and they do tend to check the address

when a delivery guy disappears-- but if were thinking of relocating anyway, thats not a bigproblem.

I like it, Spike said. Whos got a phone?A tall vampire stepped forward and handed Pike a cell phone.Anybody have a preference? Spike asked.Dominos, Druscilla said. They all turned to look at her.They deliver in half an hour. Or itsfree.Spike threw his head back and laughed so hard he almost fell off the table.

*Is that enough? Spike asked, pulling the delivery boy away. The bottom half of Tolas

face dripped with blood from the wounds on the boys neck; the vampire had drunk long anddeep, and gluttonously. Spike didnt care for vampires who got messy when they ate. Cut him abreak, old chap, he told himself.He did almost die last night.

Tola nodded, his voice still hoarse. I think so, he rasped.Pike shook the limp body. Christ, it should be. Hes almost empty. Hardly anything left

for the rest of us. Spike let the dead boy fall to the ground.Sorry, Tola managed.Spike waved a finger. Ah ah ah, he said. Youre our guest. We would be remiss if we

didnt feed you, wouldnt we pet?Druscilla sat in a lounge chair not far away, braiding the long blonde hair of a doll.

Wed be terrible hosts.Spike gestured to Druscilla. You see? Even Dru agrees.He leaned over closer to Tola. So, start talking, old chum.Tola swallowed and said, It was her.Her who? Spike asked.The Slayer, Tola spoke. It was the Slayer!Spike sighed. Thats bloody impossible.Tola glanced at Curtis, who stood several feet away, and briefly at Druscilla, who seemed

to be in another world. Then he looked back at Spike and said, I swear to you it was the Slayer.

She even said she was.Spike felt his anger start to rise. The bloody Slayer is bloody dead, he said. I saw

Angelus kill her with my own eyes.Tola looked at him nervously. She said she was the Slayer, he told Spike again.Dru! Spike called. Druscilla put the doll down gently on the floor and stood up, her

blood-red velvet dress swirling about her as she rose.Yes?



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Spike formed a v with his index and middle fingers and put them in front of his eyes;then he traced a line from his eyes to Tolas. Take a look, would you?

Of course, Druscilla said, walking over to Tola and standing in front of him.This wont hurt a bit, Druscilla said as she cupped his chin and stared into his eyes.Druscilla saw only darkness at first; she could tell Tola had not completely recovered

from the blood loss, despite his recent gorging. But his mind seemed alert enough, and Druscillafocused past his mild objections and let her mind brush his, sensing his thoughts in a vague way.She saw an old cargo boat, and a lot of boxes filled with straw.

He hasnt been here long, she announced. No more than a few months.She continued searching, flitting from place to place. The injury had jumbled his

thoughts, however, and he could barely maintain coherence. The injury, Druscilla thought, andshe pictured his hand, still with the gory hole in it, though wrapped in cotton bandages now.Druscilla felt a flash of pain as the stake entered his hand, trapping him to the pole; then she saw,plain as day, a short blonde woman wearing a little black tank top. Druscilla followed his gazeup and saw the angry, determined face of Buffy Summers.

Aaaahhh! Druscilla screamed, jerking back from Tola and breaking contact. Spikeleapt up and caught her before she could fall, and Curtis held the now unconscious Tola in his

chair.Dru, baby, honey, talk to me, Spike said as he lowered her to the floor. What did you

see, baby?Druscilla wrapped her arms around herself and started to shiver. It was her, Spike. It was

the Slayer. Shes here for us. She told him so. Shes come here to kill everybody and shescoming here for us! Druscillas eyes were filled with fear. Spike! she cried, what are wegoing to do?

It cant be, he said softly. She cant be here, pet. I saw Angelus... He stopped.Spike? Druscilla asked.Spike closed his eyes. Bloody son of a bloody bitch, he hissed. She killed him.She killed Angelus? Druscilla whispered.Spike nodded unbelievingly. She must have, he murmured.No! Druscilla screamed. No! She cant! She cant have! Not my Angel!Spike grabbed Druscilla and held her close to him. Actually, he was herAngel, pet.Curtis said, I thought you said that Angelus killed the Slayer.Spike turned on Curtis, his hunting face revealed. Yellow eyes glared at the other

vampire with a terrible anger. I thought he did, Spike snarled. He had her on the floor,defenseless, with a sword to her chest. Even a bastard like him couldnt screw that one up.

Spike, Druscilla whimpered, and he turned to her.Pet, he said reassuringly.Spike, shes coming for us.He shook his head. No shes not, love. Not to worry.She is, Spike. She said so. She toldhim.

Dru, Spike said, his features sliding back to human, I made a deal with her. She is notcoming after us.

What? Druscilla asked.What? Curtis echoed. You made a deal with the Slayer?Spike stood up and turned to face Curtis. You got a problem with that?Curtis backed away a step. Its kind of unorthodox, he ventured.Spike shrugged. Desperate times, desperate measures, and all that.What...what kinda deal? Curtis asked.



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Do you really think you need to know? Spike challenged him.I think it could be important, Curtis answered him.Spike pounced on him in a second, his hunting face revealed. Listen, mate, you might

have pulled a fast one on the Dutchman, but dont make the mistake of thinking Im as stupid ashe was. Dont forget, old chum, Im the bloody bastard you sold him out to. So if you think for asecond I trust you -- or need you -- youre very sadly mistaken.

I just think we all should know--Spike lifted him up off the floor. And I dont.Spike started carrying Curtis toward the door when Druscilla called out, Spike!He turned, still holding Curtis up in the air.What was your deal with the Slayer?Spike looked up at Curtis and hissed, Youre a very, very lucky man. He dropped him

and turned to face Druscilla.I told her I would let her go one on one with Angel if she gave me what I wanted.Druscilla frowned at him. You betrayed Angel?Spike nodded. But only for a very good reason, pet.Druscilla sat up on her knees. It would have to be for the best reason, she growled,

frowning.Oh, it was, sweetheart, he said, coming over to her. It was so I could get you back.Druscilla looked stunned. You made a deal with the Slayer just for me?He took her hand and kissed it. What other reason could there possibly be?Druscillas face beamed; she stood and wrapped her arms around him. My Spike, she

said, kissing him. You do know how to make a girl feel special. They kissed for a long time,the other vampires watching.

When at last they broke off, Curtis asked, So what do we do?About what? Spike asked.Curtis gave him a look as if he were an idiot. The Slayer!Spike gave him a sly smile. Relax, Curtis. Ive got everything under control.He leaned over and kissed Druscilla again. Curtis just shook his head and frowned.

*Buffy sat in the garage, sharpening a stake. A stack of more than a dozen lay next to her

on the floor, where she sat cross-legged, using a hunting knife that she had appropriated from avampire she had killed the week before. A pile of wood shavings had accumulated on her otherside. Buffy remained utterly silent, her body bathed orange by the setting sun; the rasping of theknife as it slid across the wood made the only sound. Buffy held up the stake, examining it; her

hazel eyes almost glowed in the sunset as she put the stake down on the pile and grabbed anotherpiece of wood.

Want some company? Rachel asked, almost hesitantly.Sure, Buffy said, nodding, before she started on the next stake.Rachel moved over to Buffy, bare feet flapping on the concrete, and sat down in front of

her.Ya need any help? Rachel offered.Got it covered, Buffy told her, peeling off an outer layer of wood. But thanks.



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Rachel shrugged. No biggie.Buffy cut with short, practiced strokes, and all too soon the harmless block of wood

resembled the weapon of choice against the undead. So, she said after a little more whittling,you gonna tell me whats bothering you, or should I guess?

Rachel glanced up at Buffy. Its that obvious?Buffy nodded. Its that obvious to me.Rachel rubbed her nose. Ive never seen them fight before.Buffy looked up. Pike and Shelley?Rachel nodded.Buffy finished off the stake and put it with the others. Is that why you came out here?Rachel shrugged. To get away from them, yeah. After a moment she added, softly,

And to be with you.Buffy stopped and looked at Rachel, meeting her eyes. What?Rachel looked away. I just wanted to spend some time with you, she mumbled.Buffy frowned slightly. Okay, Rachel, I think we just went back to the point where I ask

you if I have to guess.Rachel rubbed her nose again. Its nothing. I just...

What? Buffy asked.Rachel shook her head. Nothing.Okay, Buffy said, reaching for another piece of wood.She had just started to carve when Rachel looked up, suddenly, her dark eyes troubled.Rachel, Buffy said, whats wrong?Rachel sighed. Dont go.Buffy blinked. What?Rachel reached a hand out and took Buffys wrist. I mean it. Dont go.Buffy shook her head. What makes you think Im going anywhere?Well, were planning this big raid against vampire central, right?Right, Buffy said.And then what? Rachel asked.Then we slay, Buffy said. Lots of baddies.No, when were done, Rachel said. Then what?Then we come home and get something to eat. Buffy frowned. What am I missing

here?Rachel took a deep breath. I mean, when youre done slaying, what do you do?Rachel, I...You said there would be no more vampires, Rachel said. But if theyre gone, theres

no reason for you to be here. If no more vampires means no more Buffy, then Ill take thevampires. She let go of Buffys wrist. I mean it.

Rachel, Buffy said, surprised by the girls words, and a little touched. I never said Iwas leaving after we finished.

Rachel looked up, hope in her eyes.Youll stay?Buffy smiled. Sure, Rachel. I dont want to do this the rest of my life either. Id like to

hang out and watch a movie once in a while too. Or hang with you guys, or...Buffy trailed off as Rachel looked down at the floor.Rachel?I dont wanna live with Pike and Shelley forever, she said. I was kinda hopin we

could get a place of our own.



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Buffy raised both eyebrows.Is she serious?I dunno, Rachel. Thats a ways off anyway.Rachel nodded, looking down at the floor again.Buffy reached over and lifted her head. You know, this would be easier if you would tell

me what youre thinking instead of staring at the floor. I may be the Slayer, but Im not a mindreader.

Rachel rubbed her hands together and met Buffys eyes; but she looked away quickly. Idont feel so alone with you, she admitted. I like not being alone. I like knowing yourearound. She shrugged her shoulders. Nobody in my life ever meant anything to me before Pikeand Shelley, and even they dont mean as much as you do. Youre like my sister, Buffy. I mean,Ive only known you like two months, but...

Buffy sighed. Rachel... She closed her eyes a moment. I dont know that Im ready forthis. Look, I was in bad shape when I came here. You guys took me in and made me feel goodabout myself again. You accepted me like family at a time when... She shook her head. Im notgonna leave you without a good reason. I promise.

Rachel nodded, her dark eyes full of doubt.Buffy took her hand. I promise, Rachel.

Their eyes met, holding each other for a spell. Buffy looked away after a long moment.How can I walk out on someone who needs me this much?

Rachel squeezed Buffys hand. We better get ready, huh?Buffy glanced at the sun; it was just kissing the palm tree tops. Yah.They released hands and stood up; Rachel went to get the holy water, and Buffy loaded

the spikes into the van.

*Shelley entered the bedroom quietly; Pike stood at the window, watching the sun sink

toward the ocean. Hed stuffed his hands in his pockets, and stood motionless, a dark silhouetteagainst the vermilion sky.

Pike, Shelley murmured.He didnt turn around.Pike, please, Shelley said. Can we please talk?He stayed silent, and still.I know how you feel about our hunting tonight. I know all the reservations you have.

And... She took a step toward him. Im not saying youre wrong.She moved up behind him and tentatively placed a hand on his back. But Ive never

done this without you. I dont want to start now. She shut her eyes, but a tear escaped one ofthem and slid down her cheek. I know how you feel about Buffy, but what about how you feelabout me?

Pike didnt say anything.Pike... Jesus... this is for us, dont you see that? We can have a normal life. No more

vampires. No more hunting. Just you and me and this house, and Rachel, and... I dont know. Wecould get jobs. Or have kids. Or travel. Or whatever you want to do. I dont care. She placed herhands on his shoulders. I dont want to do anything in the whole rest of my life without you.Shelley pressed against him, her forehead touching his neck. And that includes tonight.

Tears rolled down her cheeks, and she inhaled deeply; but still he didnt say a word, ormove a muscle.



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Please, she whispered to him. Please, Pike. For me. For us.She felt him take a deep breath, and he turned away from the window to face her. She

looked up at him and saw the tears on his face as well.Do you have any idea how much I love you? he asked her, his voice breaking. Do you

have any idea how hard this is for me too? He wrapped his arms around her. You think Imenjoying this? That I like seeing you in pain?

No, she told him. No...Shelley, he said quietly, what shes doing is wrong. Shes blurring lines here, Shell. I

know the end result is a good one. I know that. You think I havent thought about just shutting upand letting Buffy do this? You think I dont want this?

Then come with us, Shelley said.I cant, he whispered. I cant, Shelley. As much as I want all those same things you

want, I dont want to cross that line to get them. If I act toward the vampires the way they acttoward me, Im no better than they are. And I am better, Shell-- we all are. Theres no need fortorture. We could just stake them. Theres no need to make them suffer. He stroked her hair.You suffered at their hands. Would you really wish that on anyone, even the bastards who didthat to you?

Shelley began to cry, pressing her face in his chest. Please, Pike. Ill do anything youwant, I swear it. Just come hunting with us tonight. She looked up. You could keep an eye onBuffy, you know? Keep her from getting too far out of line.

Pike shook his head. I cant stop Buffy. I never could. The only one who can do that isBuffy.

Shelley took a deep, shuddering breath. Youre not coming, are you?I cant, Shelley. I cant go along with this. I cant change Buffys mind, I accept that.

But I sure dont have to send the message that I think shes right.Shelleys voice broke as she asked, Not even for me?Pike closed his eyes and rested his forehead against the top of her head. Would you stay

home for me? he asked.Shelley looked up at him, surprised. What?Would you stay here, with me... for me?Shelley blinked. Is that what you really want?Pike sighed. What I really want is for you to agree with me. Not because you want to

agree with me, but because you think its right too. He wiped away a tear of hers. But Im notgonna get that, because you dont think Im right. He smiled sadly. So Id settle for youstaying here with me tonight, yeah. Ill take you any way I can get you.

Shelley reached up and kissed him, passionately, sliding her arms beneath his and aroundhis back. They kissed for some time, their bodies locked together tightly, until at last they cameup for breath.

Wish us luck, she said, another tear sliding down her cheek.Dont, he murmured to her, kissing her again. Stay with me.

She shook her head. I cant. Any more than you can come with me.He bowed his head.Then watch yourself out there, okay?Shelley nodded, trying to smile. Its gonna be weird hunting without you.Shell, he said, holding her to him.After a space, she said, I gotta go. Its getting dark.Pike nodded mutely, and Shelley slowly disentangled herself from him. She looked at

him for a moment, wiping her tears away, and turned and walked out of the bedroom.



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Pike looked out the window for a space, watching the red turn to violet turn to black.When he heard the van pull away from the house he almost went running after them, but heforced himself to stay in the bedroom.

He waited five more minutes and moved to his side of the headboard; he opened up thelittle cabinet there and pulled out a book. He opened the cover and pulled out the small businesscard that Sam had given him, taking a deep breath to steady himself. He picked up the phone anddialed the hand-written number on the back.

It rang twice before the other end picked up. Hello?Rupert Giles? Pike asked.Yes?My name is Lucas Pike. You and I need to have a talk.

*Spike kicked open the door of the abandoned building and stepped out into the night. A

band of dull purple hovered along the horizon, days last effort not to be overtaken by the dark.

Spike took a breath and smiled; he threw his arms out and laughed. Curtis emerged next, gavehim a wide berth, and looked on nervously as the others exited. Spike had assembled all of thevampires he could get his hands on. Those who had tired of the Slayers rampages, those whoalready followed him, and any other creatures of the night who would heed his call. He knewthey formed a ragged force, but he also knew that he hadnt spent the time to forge them into acoherent unit. No sense blaming them that theyre inadequate, Spike chided himself. Someonehad to be.

There certainly are a lot of us, Curtis said.Spike dropped his arms to his side and looked at Curtis. Numbers are inconsequential,

mate. We could have an army with us tonight, but we only really need one person to find theSlayer.

Curtis frowned. Who?Spike smiled widely. Druscilla!She came out of the building last, almost as if they had planned it. Druscilla wore a long

black velvet dress and a dark chiffon wrap over her shoulders. She smiled at Spike and took hisoutstretched hand. Good evening, my love, she said.

Spike kissed her hand. Dru, my dear, you look ravishing, as ever.Druscilla smiled at him. You flatter me, she chided him.Its the truth, baby, he said. Spike glanced at Curtis. Have you ever seen anything

more radiant than she?Curtis looked as if hed swallowed his tongue. No, he eeked out.I really havent.Spike slapped him on the shoulder, laughing. Look at his face, Dru! Youve caught

another one in your web!

Druscilla flashed her wide smile at Curtis. Bad boy, she said. I know what yourethinking!

Curtis actually appeared to blush.Spike led Druscilla away from the others and said, Easy, pet, youre going to give poor

Curtis a heart attack.Druscilla giggled evilly. I really do know what hes thinking, she said, and it was very

naughty.Spike seemed amused. I didnt know Curtis had it in him.



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Druscilla looked into Spikes eyes. Id say you have another loyal follower.Spike chuckled. I do? I rather think you do, my Dru.The two of them laughed for a minute, and then Spike turned to the vampires, who milled

about.Okay, listen up, everyone. This one should be easy. If we all play along, no one has to

do any fighting or anything violent like that. Spike paused. Not that I am opposed to that sortof thing, but I doubt very much any of you want to take on the Slayer. And if you follow theplan, you wont have to. All youll have to do is look menacing. Druscilla here will take care ofthe rest.

She took a bow.So what do we do? a short dark-haired vampire asked.You lot, follow me. Dont hunt, dont touch anything, and dont get distracted. Spike

made eye contact with a few of them. You all know how talented these hunters are. This Slayerhas friends who arent bad themselves. So if you wander off, or straggle... Spike shrugged.You may not see another sunset.

But what do we do? the vampire asked again.Like I said, youre here for effect. We dont need forty vampires to faze the Slayer, but

Im betting the others with her will be suitably impressed when they see a platoon of us. All youhave to do is look menacing and growl a little-- you know, put on a show-- and that should throwthem off balance enough for me and Dru to take care of things.

There were murmurs of assent, but Curtis asked, And what exactly is your plan?Spike gave Curtis a long look. Dru can find the Slayer. Shell do the searching, Ill do

the talking, and you bunch just stay in line. Dont do anything stupid. I wont cover for you, andIm not responsible if you get creative. If anyone here gets it into their head to go after theSlayer, let me know first. So I can wave bye-bye to you.

Spike raised his voice. This ones a killer. Ive faced Slayers before, but this one ismean. Driven. He smiled slightly. She could almost be one of us. So nobody play hero tonight,understand, and well all come out alive.

Curtis said, You still havent told us what the plan is.Spike showed his hunting face. Should I take that as some kind of challenge, Curtis?Curtis took a step back. No. But you did hand Angel over to the Slayer. None of our

kind have ever dealt with a Slayer like that before.Spike smiled, baring his fangs, and shook his head. Tsk, tsk, Curtis. Youre forgetting

Angelus himself. He fell in love with the Slayer. Or wouldnt you call that dealing?Curtis face went pale. He...loved a Slayer?Spike nodded. So dont tell me no one else has gotten chummy with a Slayer before,

mate.Curtis nodded.How do we know you wont sell us out? another vampire asked. Spike started to reply

when Tola spoke.

Not this one.Spike raised an eyebrow.These two could have left me to die, he said, gesturing to Spike and Druscilla. They

saved me last night, and they didnt owe me anything. Id be a pile of ashes without them.He took a step toward Spike and Druscilla. If you want to survive this Slayer, these two

are your best bet, he said. Id listen to them.Spike smiled, concealing his hunting face.Thank you, Tola, he said.



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Druscilla patted his good hand. Well spoken, she told him.Tola bowed his head slightly.Well then, shall we? Pike asked the assembled. And remember, no getting creative.

This is one mean little bitch were talking about.He turned around and lead them away from the building, heading west, in the direction of

the beach.

*Rachel let the van idle for a moment as she parked it illegally in an alleyway close to the

boardwalk. She checked the dashboard clock-- 11:45 p.m.-- and killed the engine.Explain to me again why were at the beach? she asked.Because they havent shown up anywhere else they usually go, Buffy replied.Maybe well have an easy night, Shelley offered. Maybe theyre all staying in or

something.Buffy glanced at Shelley. You have got to be kidding.

You have been hitting them pretty hard, Buffy, Shelley told her. Maybe they finallycaught on.

Maybe, Buffy admitted. Maybe not. I still think a sweep here would be a good idea.Me too, Rachel agreed. You know, just to be sure.Buffy opened the door and slid out of the van. Rachel turned to Shelley and asked,

Coming?Doubt flitted over Shelleys face for a moment before she said, Okay.The three of them gathered in front of the van; each carried a backpack. They strolled out

onto the boardwalk casually; though almost midnight, the beach was still fairly well populated,and the girls had no trouble blending in with other tourists, shoppers, and those just hanging outon a warm summer night. Buffy peered around them, fully alert, but nothing seemed out of theordinary.I wish it was a little less crowded, but then, if it was empty, thered be no reason for thevampires to come here. And that wouldnt work.

Rachel looked about as well, checking out what she considered suspicious looking people. Buffy could spot a vampire on sight, and Shelley even seemed to have fairly goodhunches; but Rachel felt clueless when it came to spotting vampires at a distance. She gave themhell the second they were revealed, but all summer she had allowed Buffy to take the lead, oreven Shelley. God forbid I accidentally stake a human. That wouldsuck, big time. From whatshe could tell, everyone seemed on the level, and neither Buffy nor Shelley had said anything.

Shelley watched as a couple kissed by the edge of the boardwalk, their lips lockedpassionately. She looked away, closing her eyes for a moment. I hate this. I hate that hes nothere and I hate missing him and I hate doing this without him. She shook her head to clear herthoughts of Pike, but he wouldnt be banished so easily. He saved my life from these bastards.

Id be dead without him. Shelley glanced absently at a row of pinball machines as they passedby an arcade.I should have stayed home with him. I shouldnt be here. This feels wrong.

Shelley, Buffy said, and Shelley turned to face her. Hmm?Buffy gestured to a well-lit snack stand. Coffee is in order, I think. Would you mind

grabbing us a few?Sure, Shelley said. She pointed at Rachel. Black, she said, and then to Buffy, three

sugars, three creamers.Thatll do it, Buffy said.



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Shelley nodded. Be right back. She headed for the stand.Im worried about Shelley, Buffy said.Rachel watched as Shelley got in line. Maybe you should be.Buffy turned to face her. Huh?No offense, Buff, but Shelley without Pike is a bad idea. I dont think theyve ever been

apart longer than an hour since they met.Buffy frowned. I didnt stop Pike from coming, she said.And he was wrong not to show, I agree, Rachel said. But shes not all here.Buffy nodded. Shes not any here.Early night? Rachel asked. Tomorrow bein the big day, and all.Buffy glanced around. I dunno. Id like to check around here just a little bit. They seem

to...What? Rachel asked.Plain as day he stood by the merry-go-round, his hands in the pockets of his jacket. To

anyone else on the boardwalk he would have seemed a handsome, if sloppily dressed, youngman. But Buffy knew what he really was.

Bingo, she said, nodding her head toward him. Rachel followed the gesture and saw

him. Even she could tell by the vile look he gave them that he was a vampire.Lets get him, Rachel said.Buffy put a hand on her arm. Hes not alone.You see more? Rachel asked.No, Buffy admitted, but no vampire on earth is that brave. Hes a trap, or at best a

decoy.So... Rachel said.So, we wait until Shelley gets back with the coffee. Toothy over there knows we saw

him. Hes not going any--He was gone.Shit, Buffy thought. What the hell are they up to?Buff, Rachel said, tapping her on the shoulder.Hmm?Look!Rachel pointed. The vampire had moved behind Shelley in line.Easy, Buffy said, opening her backpack and drawing the super-soaker out. She

gestured for Rachel to do the same. Nice and easy, Rachel. We go over there and kick his sorryass.

Rachel fetched her soaker from her bag and stuffed a stake up the sleeve of her jacket forgood measure. Lets go.

Remember, easy. Until we can figure out what he wants.Shelley ordered the coffees, fishing out a few folder dollar bills and sliding them across

the counter. Behind her, the vampire appeared to study the menu.

Just give us a second, Buffy though.Just be Mr. Cool another few seconds and--Evening ladies, a voice said. Buffy looked up, surprised at being addressed, into the

face of a police officer.Um, hi, she said. Rachel stayed quiet.The officer gestured at the super-soakers. I dont have to ask if thats water inside there,

do I?No, Buffy said. Its water.



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The officer folded her arms across her chest. And I dont have to tell you not to botheranyone with those things, right?

We wont, Rachel supplied. Were just playin a game, thats all.The officer nodded, her dark eyes scanning Rachel.I dont care if you wanna play games, girls. Just keep them off the board walk and away

from the stands. Take it on the beach.We will, Rachel assured her. We just have to get our friend over there at the Snack

Palace.The officer turned around to see Shelley pouring milk into two of the coffees. Her? she

asked.Buffy nodded. Thats her.Okay, well, just--The sound of bicycle brakes interrupted the officer. To Buffys dismay, a second cop had

wheeled up next to the first one.Everything okay, Cory? he asked her.Fine, Victor, she assured him. I was just telling these two--Buffy saw the vampire reach for Shelley and she took off.

Hey! Cory called after her.Rachel said, Thanks for the warning, and chased after Buffy.Victor shook his head. Kids will play, he said, chuckling.Buffy zipped between two young men and leapt at the vampire; he had one hand on

Shelleys shoulder, but before Buffy could hit him, Shelley had backhanded him away. Buffymissed him but managed to land on her feet. She swiveled to face him.

You kill me here, he sneered, youll have a lot of explaining to do.Buffy glanced at the cops as Rachel came up behind the vampire.Ill take that chance, she said, pulling a stake out of her backpack.Hey! the officers called, dropping their bikes and running toward the girls. Drop that

stick!Buffy looked at Shelley. Run.What? Shelley asked.The vampire grinned evilly at Buffy.Run, Buffy said. Meet up back at the van.She drove the stake into the vampires chest.Freeze! Victor yelled.The vampire exploded into a shower of dust. Rachel took off in the opposite direction

from Shelley, and Buffy headed straight for the police.Stop right there! Cory said, drawing her gun and aiming it at Buffy.Buffy flipped head over heels directly into the two police officers, knocking them both

over. She somersaulted into a crouching position and leapt to her feet. She ran the remainingfifteen feet to the rail at the edge of the pier and neatly hopped over it, dropping to the sand. She

darted under the boardwalk and started heading back toward where they had parked the van.Behind her, Buffy could hear the two police officers drop down to the sand and give chase.

Sorry, guys, she said, sprinting over the sand toward the underside of a stairway thatled to pier above. Buffy squeezed between the stairs and the building, pleased to see that shedlanded only one alley away from where they had parked the van. She hopped back up on theboardwalk and dashed past the arcade and the cotton candy place, dodging an elderly couple asshe passed the closed souvenir store, and rounded the corner at full speed, ready to hop into thevan and lose the cops as quickly as possible.



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She stopped short as she saw Spike holding Shelley.Hello, Slayer, he said.Druscilla appeared next to him, and suddenly the rest of the entire alleyway filled with

vampires.Lets have a little talk, shall we? he asked Buffy.

*Let her go, Spike, Buffy said, her voice even.Spike stared at the Slayer. I dont think so. I think Ill hold on to little missy here until

you and I come to an understanding.We can talk as long as you want, Buffy said. But let her go or I swear Ill kill you and

everything else in this alley.Spike glanced around. What, youre going to kill all forty of us before I crush her

throat?Spike, I swear, if you hurt her in any way...

Spike laughed. Didnt I tell you lot about her? Feisty, isnt she?Buffy licked her lips and prepared to leap at Spike.I wouldnt, Druscilla said, coming out from behind Spike. You arent thatfast.Buffy swore vigorously under her breath.Druscilla smiled. Do you kiss your mummy with that mouth? she asked.Buffy ignored her. What do you want, Spike? she asked.Spike cocked his head to one side. What do you think I want? he asked.Buffy started to answer, but before she could, Rachel leapt from the boardwalk and

landed next to Druscilla. She dodged Curtis swipe at her and pointed the super soaker atDruscillas head.

Let Shelley go, Rachel snarled.Spikes hunting face came out at once. Dru, he said.Spike, she whined.Rachel pressed the nozzle against Druscillas temple. Not only will this kill her, but it

will really hurt.Spike withdrew his hands from Shelley; she stumbled forward and moved to Buffys

side.Call her off, he hissed at Buffy.Buffy brushed her hair out of her eyes and said, No.You bitch, Spike said. You call her off or Ill...Youll what, Spike? Buffy asked. Youre a real tough guy, but you have one

weakness. I learned that the second you came to me for help in Sunnydale. Buffy looked atRachel. You okay?

Rachel nodded, obviously a little nervous. Im cool for now.Buffy turned to Spike. So what did you want to talk about?Spike glanced at Rachel and said, We had a deal. I helped you, you leave us alone.The deal was I help you get Dru, you help me get Angel. As far as Im concerned were

even.Spike took a step toward Buffy. Then maybe its time to talk a new deal.Buffy set her hands on her hips. Im listening.



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Faster than she would have imagined, Spike reached over and grabbed the gun out ofRachels hands; he threw it up on the boardwalk and pushed her to the ground. He reared his legback to kick her when Buffy growled, Dont.

He turned to see the Slayer standing ten feet from him, a sharp stake in her hand pointeddirectly at his heart.

Spike raised his hands and backed away from Rachel. Stay cool, he advised Buffy.Buffy helped Rachel up, and the two girls moved back to stand next to Shelley.That evens things out a bit, dont you think? Spike asked. He regarded Rachel. What

have you got in those things anyway? Holy water?She nodded.Clever girl, he said, flashing her a smile that had no humor in it at all. He looked at

Buffy. Now, lets talk.Buffy still brandished the stake. Im all ears, she said.New deal, pretty much the same terms, except this time you leave town.This is their home, Buffy said, gesturing to Rachel and Shelley. You leave town

tonight, and I let all of you walk.Spike chuckled. Take a look around you, Slayer. Ive got forty pissed-off vampires

behind me. Youve got two scared girls at your back. Spike folded his arms. Id wager yourposition is looking a little weak right now.

Buffy opened her mouth to reply, but was interrupted by a cry of, Hands up! Now!from the boardwalk. She looked up to see the two officers, Victor and Cory, who had givenchase earlier. Their guns were drawn and aimed at her.

I do notneed this, Buffy muttered.Break it up, Cory said, moving toward the stairs. All of you, come on. Move it along.Spike angled his head in their direction. Are they kidding? he asked.Spike, Buffy said, her voice threatening.Not this time, he said, wagging his finger at her. I saved you from John Law the last

time. Not again.Cory had taken two steps down the stairs, her gun still trained on Buffy. Are you people

deaf? she asked. I said move it along!Spike shook his head. Thats it. He turned to the vampires. Take her, he said.A vampire leapt up at Cory; she blasted him in the shoulder, but he continued coming at

her. Victor shot him twice, both times in the arm, but the vampire shrugged off the wounds andreached for Cory, grabbing her arm and making her next two shots fly wide.

You might wanna try this, a bystander said to Victor, showing him the water gun thatSpike had so casually discarded moments earlier.

Who the hell are you? Victor asked.Pike! Shelley called out, spotting him.He lifted the gun and fired at the vampire accosting Cory; some of the water hit the cop,

but most of it splashed the vampire along the side of the head. Smoke rose up where the water

singed him and he howled in pain. Cory looked on in shock as the flesh on the side of his facebegan to melt away.

For a moment no one moved, or uttered a sound, as the vampire twitched on the ground,close to death. He expired seconds later, the injury from the holy water too great for him tosustain; he turned to dust.

Buffy and Spike locked eyes.Dont do it, Buffy hissed.Spike showed his hunting face.



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Dont do it, Buffy warned him.Druscilla growled, her hunting face showing.Ohhhhhh shit, this is gonna be ugly, Buffy thought as she raised her stake.Two vampires threw themselves at Buffy. She dodged one and staked the other, turning

away as he burst into ashes. I told you, she said, whirling around and staking the other one inthe back, dont do it! The second one turned to dust as well.

Another vampire leapt at Shelley; Rachel yelled out her name, and tossed Shelley thestake she had concealed up her sleeve earlier. Shelley caught the stake and turned just in time toimpale the vampire as he landed on her.

Didnt you hear me? Buffy asked.Id listen to her, Pike said, aiming the super-soaker at Spike.Who the hell are you? Spike asked.Who the hell are all of you people? Victor asked.And what the hell just happened to those two guys? Cory asked. What the hell did you

do to them?Rachel leaned over toward her. Theyre vampires. Long version later.Vampires?? Cory asked.

Buffy took a step toward Spike. We can still prevent this from being a major stain, shesaid, her stake held high.

Ive got the numbers, Spike said. Convince me, little girl.Okay, Buffy said, youve got the numbers, but a minute ago it was forty to three. Now

its thirty-six to six. This keeps up, you wont have the advantage for long.Long enough, Spike boasted.Long enough to ensure Dru doesnt get hurt? Buffy said. Because shes my first

target.Spike glanced at her. Drus bagged a Slayer. Shes no pushover.Spike, Dru said.Not now, pet, he said. To Buffy, he spoke, Im still not convinced.Have you ever seen what one of these babies can do set to spray? Pike asked from the

boardwalk. And there are two more of them down there. Ever wonder what it would be like if itrained holy water?

Spike, Druscilla said again. He turned toward her, the anger and frustration on his faceplain.

Yes, love?Ask her what she wants, Druscilla told him.Spike turned back toward Buffy. Dru wants to know what you have in mind, he said.Just what I said before. All of you walk, tonight-- and keep on walking your undead

asses out of town-- and I dont have to get ugly with you. Otherwise, we do this the really hardway. Either choice you make, theres not gonna be any vampires in L.A. come morning. Its upto you how we do this.

Theyre not going anywhere, Victor said. Theyre witnesses to a murder.Spike glared at him. And you wonder why we see you lot as ignorant food, he said to

Buffy.Victor, shut up for a minute, Cory said.Buffy gave Spike a look.Okay, mostly ignorant food, he amended.Well? Buffy asked him.A moment, Spike said, and he turned to Druscilla.



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What do you think, pet? he asked her softly.I think she really wants to kill you, Druscilla replied.I know that, Spike said. But what about her offer? Walk away and live to feed, or get

her out of our lives for good?I dont trust these followers, Druscilla said. You promised them they wouldnt have to

fight. Dru glanced around. I dont think their hearts are in it. What a pity. Because yours is.Spike nodded. Good enough, pet, he said.He turned back to Buffy. Dru says we take your offer.Buffy raised an eyebrow. And what does Spike say?Spike replied, Spike says count yourself lucky Dru said yes. He turned to the

assembled vampires. Time to go, mates. No rough-housing tonight.Wait! Victor said, and Spike looked over at Buffy.Just let me kill him, Spike said.Go, Buffy told him, between clenched teeth.Youre one hell of a Slayer, Spike said, smiling, but you are no fun.He turned and put his arm around Druscilla and led her, and the other vampires, out of

the alleyway and up the street.

Pike ran down the stairs past Cory and grabbed Shelley and held her tight.Victor holstered his gun and asked, What just happened?Cory moved over to Buffy and Rachel. Vampires? she asked.Listen, Officer... Rachel began.Cory, she supplied.Listen, Officer Cory. Its best not to think about it too much.Yeah, Cory said, But--Buffy turned and looked her in the eyes. Any time you walk away from something like

that with no casualties, just count yourself lucky. The details you can fill in later.Cory nodded. Who are you, anyway?Buffy shrugged. Im the one who makes sure those guys dont get out of line. She

turned away from Cory. Pike? Shelley? Ready to go?They broke off their kiss. Yeah, Shelley said.Buffy thrust a thumb over her shoulder. Lets get movin.Victor approached Rachel. Were those really vampires? he asked her. I mean, like,

vampires are real?Rachel nodded. Very real.And you guys hunt them, he said.Pretty much, she answered.Wow, he muttered.Rachel grinned. It can be, yeah.She hopped in the drivers seat and gave the two officers a little wave. Then she started

the van.

Home, Jeeves, Buffy said, closing her eyes and sinking back in the passengers seat. Inthe back, Pike and Shelley had resumed their embrace.

Everything back to normal, Rachel murmured, smiling as she watched them in themirror.

As the van pulled away, Victor asked, How are we going to explain this to thelieutenant?

Were not, Cory answered.



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But Cory, he said, this is I mean... he gestured at the now empty alleyway. This isbig. This is major.

Cory nodded. Yeah, she said, but no one will even believe you, Victor. Hell, I saw itand I dont even believe it.

Victor shook his head. Yeah, he said.Cmon, Cory said. Lets get some coffee. My treat.Victor nodded. Sure.Vampires, he thought. And she hunts them...

*Shelley sat on the edge of the bed, trailing her hand up Pikes leg, smiling down at him as

he lay stretched out. I hoped you would follow us, she said.To be honest, I tried not to, Shell. But I was so goddamn worried about you. I just had

this terrible feeling that something would happen to you.

You didnt come to try and reign Buffy in? Shelley asked, taking his hand.I told you, hon, I cant do that. Even if I wanted to. Buffy pretty much does what she

wants.I guess she didnt want to kill that Spike guy, Shelley said, kissing Pikes hand.I bet she did, he replied. But she wanted to save you two more. And bottom line-- she

made the right call on that.How did you find us? Shelley asked him, guiding his hand over her cheek.I saw two cops moving toward the edge of the boardwalk. I figured you guys had to be

involved.Shelley laughed. Really, she said.Really? he asked, running his fingers through her long hair.

Really.He said, I just did what you did. I hit the haunts where they usually are until I spottedthe van. Then I started combing the boardwalk for you. And then I saw the cops, and...

Shelley frowned slightly. You didnt take that dirt bike, did you?He nodded. I locked it up. We can go get it tomorrow, or whenever.Or we could leave it there, Shelley teased him. Hope someone steals it?Hey, that thing saved my life, he said. And Buffys.Shelley tilted her head. I dont think you told me that story.He smiled, Well...Shelley held up a hand, Im gonna go get something to drink first.Not dressed like that youre not, he told her.Shelley stood; slim bare legs stuck out from his half-buttoned flannel shirt. What?

Pike raised an eyebrow.Pike, she said, They know were up here having sex.

I know theyre up there having sex, Rachel said, rolling her dark eyes up at the ceiling.Rachel! Buffy said.What? Its true, and you know it.Buffy looked at Rachel. Why dont we talk about something else? she offered.Rachel grinned evilly. Im gonna go knock on their door.



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Rachel, Buffy said, dont.Rachel gave Buffy a look. Why not? Theyve been up there two hours.Two hours?? Buffy asked.Rachel nodded.Wow, Buffy remarked.Rachel folded her arms.Maybe you better go check on them, Buffy said.Rachel raised an eyebrow.A wide smile crept over Buffys face. Just give em a good, hard knock. Dont open the

door.Trust me, Rachel said, those two making the beast with two backs is not something

Im lining up to see.Rachel! Buffy scolded her.Going, Rachel said, giggling as she ran up the stairs.As she cleared the landing, the doorbell rang.Buffy turned around to face the door. Still light out. Cant be a vampire, she mused,

smiling.

The doorbell rang again.Ill get it, Buffy called out, getting up off the couch and moving to the door.She opened the door and looked outside.Hello, Buffy.Buffy took a step backward. Giles, she muttered.Behind her on stairs, Rachel had descended halfway down, and she frowned as she saw a

strange man in the doorway. Who the hell is that?Buff? she called out.Buffy seemed not to hear her. What are you doing here? she asked Giles.I came to see you, Giles responded.Buff? Rachel asked as she came up alongside her. Who is this guy?Rachel, Buffy said, this is Giles. My watcher.Oh shit, Rachel thought. Oh shit oh shit oh shit oh shit oh shit!May I come in? he asked.Buffy turned to Rachel. Go get Pike and Shelley.Rachel stared at her mutely.Buffy gave Rachel a gentle push on the shoulder. Go get Pike and Shelley, Buffy

repeated.Rachel looked at Buffy, pain in her eyes. You knew about this, she said.Buffy? Giles inquired.Rachel, I did not. She glanced at Giles. I didnt even know he knew where I was. Now

would you please just go get Pike and Shelley? Please?Rachel took a step back. You promised me, she mumbled.

Buffy closed her eyes. Rachel, just get them, she murmured.If this is a bad time, Giles ventured.Buffy glanced at him. There wouldnt be any such thing as a good time for this, she

snapped. She turned back to Rachel. Please?Rachel shook her head, the pain still in her eyes, and moved toward the stairs.Come on in, Giles, Buffy said, turning away from him and walking into the living

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Giles let himself in and stood in the foyer for a few minutes, inspecting the architectureof the house so he wouldnt appear rude or forward.

Might as well come in, Giles, Buffy said from the living room. They dont stand onceremony here.

Giles walked slowly into the living room and sat down across from Buffy. You lookwell, he said, settling into the chair. You look, er, rather tan.

He blinked as he met Buffys eyes and saw hostility there.Why are you here? Buffy asked him, folding her arms across her chest.I came to see you, Giles answered her, repeating what he had said before.Why? she asked.Giles took off his glasses. There are many reasons, Buffy. I wanted to see how you were

doing, I wanted to see if you were okay, I wanted to--Giles! Buffy cut him off. She glared at him. Im a big girl. I can take care of myself.Giles frowned. So I see.Rachel and Shelley came into the living room from the stairs. Im Shelley Vaughn, she

said, holding out a hand. I dont believe weve met.Im Rupert Giles, he said, standing up and taking her hand. Good Lord, what has Buffy

gotten herself into? A sorority?Youre Buffys watcher, Shelley said, glancing down at Buffy, who stared straight

ahead.Everyone here seems to know a fair bit about me, Giles said. But Im afraid you have

me at a disadvantage.Good, Rachel sneered.Shelley gave her a scolding look. Buffys told us a lot about you, Shelley replied.

How did you find us?That would be me, Pike said, coming down the stairs barefoot.Pike!! Rachel cried out. Shelley frowned at him.Giles put his hands in his pockets and nodded. I see. Apparently Mr. Pike didnt make

the plans for my visit general knowledge. Giles tried to smile. Charming.Pike held out his hand. Sorry about that, Giles. That is my fault. Giles gave him a quick

handshake. Pike gestured to the chairs. Why doesnt everyone sit down?Can I have a word with you? Rachel asked Pike.Not right now, Pike murmured.Rachel grabbed his shirt. Yes right now, she hissed.Ill be right back, Pike said as Shelley and Giles sat down. Rachel led him into the

kitchen.What are you doing? she asked him.Im taking care of Buffy, he said.Rachel frowned. What?Pike shook his head. Im sorry, Rachel. I know this is gonna be tough on you.

Rachel hit him, a solid punch to the shoulder. How could you?Pike stumbled back a step and grabbed his shoulder with his other hand. How could I

what?You know how I feel about her! Rachel spat at him. How could you just invite this

guy up here? Why, Pike?Pike sighed. Its whats best for Buffy, Rachel.How come you get to judge that? Rachel asked him, a tear sliding down her cheek.

Who died and made you Elvis?



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I dont get to decide, Pike said. Buffy does.Rachel wiped her tear. I dont get it.Pike moved over to her and put a hand on her shoulder. Buffy did so much for us we

could spend the rest of our lives trying to repay her, Rachel, and we couldnt do it. But we cantkeep her here just because we like her. We have to give her the choice to leave.

I dont wanther to go! Rachel said.I dont either! Pike answered her. But I want Buffy to do whats best for Buffy, not

whats best for us. She already didthat.I hate you, Pike, Rachel told him. If she leaves...Pike nodded his head. Im sorry, Rachel. Its the right thing to do.Rachel glared at him.I know you dont feel that way now, he admitted.Rachel grabbed a paper towel and dabbed at her eyes. I will never feel that way, she

spat, tossing the towel in the garbage and heading back into the living room.Pike whispered, Great, sighed, and followed her.What did I miss? Pike asked, trying to sound genial as he entered the living room.Mr. Giles was just telling us why he came to visit, Shelley said, giving Pike a dark

look.Giles said, Yes, well, you see, Mr. Pike called me, and--Pike interrupted. Just Pike, Giles. No Mister.Very well, Giles said, nodding. When Pike called me last night, he told me he was

afraid for Buffys life. He said that Buffy was, Giles looked at Pike, playing hardball with thevampires, and that he felt the vampires were ready to up the stakes and play hardball right back.

Buffy frowned at Pike. You didnt think I could handle it?Pike stuffed his hands in his pockets. I thought they were gonna kill you, Buff. You

crossed the line with them.You didnt trust me? she asked him. You went behind my back?You were out of control, Pike said. I didnt have a clue how to get you back in

control, either. Pike shrugged. I didnt know what else to do.Buffy was not out of control! Rachel snarled at Pike.Yes she was, Shelley said softly.What? Buffy and Rachel asked.Shelley looked at Buffy. Im sorry, Buffy, I really am, but you were going to war on

these guys. You were taking it too personally.Shelley, Buffy said, confused. What are trying to say?Youre just saying that because youre sleeping with Pike, Rachel growled. Buffy was

notout of line. She was stickin it to those bastards the way they deserved.Rachel, I am not saying that because Im... because of how I feel about Pike, Shelley

spoke. Im saying it because torture is wrong no matter who you do it to. I got caught up in themoment and I wasnt seeing things clearly. Shelley looked at Buffy. Neither were you.

Torture? Giles asked, concern in his voice.Buffy was staking vampires to poles, or trees, and letting the sun kill them, Pike

supplied.Giles nodded, staring at Buffy. I see. And Slayers wonder why they are assigned

Watchers.But Buffy saved us last night against that Spike guy, Rachel pointed out.Spike is here? Giles asked.Was, Pike said. Buffy made a deal with him and he left.



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Buffy? Giles asked.Buffy said, I told him I wouldnt kill Druscilla if all of the vampires left L.A.Giles blinked. All of them?Buffy nodded.And you trust him?Buffy nodded. Weve had dealings before. Hes good for his word where it concerns

Druscilla.Giles frowned. Dealings before. I see.Only Buffy could have done that, Rachel argued.Shelley ignored her comment and looked at Buffy. You didnt see him, did you?See who? Buffy asked.The vampire you staked to the telephone pole the night before. They had rescued him. I

recognized him in the crowd.Pike looked over at Shelley. He was there?Buffy swore, softly, but Giles heard her and blanched.Buffy looked up at him, her hazel eyes troubled. Thats how they found us.What? Rachel asked.

Druscilla, Buffy said. Thats how they knew where to set up that ambush. Dammit,dammit, I screwed up.

I dont get it, Rachel said.Druscilla is a very powerful seer, Giles explained. If Buffy had prolonged contact

with the stake in question-- say, if she had whittled it-- there would be enough of her aura on itso that Druscilla could trace her. At least I believe so.

Are you shittin me? Rachel asked.Giles shook his head. I am not. Shes demonstrated the ability before.If I had just wasted that guy, they could never have found us, Buffy said. Jesus, I

could have gotten us all killed. She closed her eyes and shook her head.But if youd killed him, we wouldnta had that showdown, Rachel told her, and you

wouldnta chased Spike, and...Rachel looked up at Shelley. Help me here.Please.Shelley shook her head. I cant, Rachel. We were lucky last night. We could have been

killed. We almost were. She frowned. The fact that we got lucky does not balance out the factthat we were sloppy.

I almost got you killed, Buffy said. All that you did for me, and I almost ended yourlives.

But you didnt, Rachel said.No, you didnt, Pike agreed. You did get us out of there in one piece.Buffy looked up at him sheepishly. I kinda remember somebody with a super soaker on

the boardwalk having a large part to play in last nights heroics.Pike nodded. Group effort, then.

How many vampires were there last night? Giles asked.Forty, Shelley replied. Give or take a few.Giles asked, You four took on forty vampires?There were two cops on our side too, Pike added.And we won, Rachel said.We were lucky, Buffy muttered. Lucky Spike has this big weak spot named

Druscilla. She bowed her head, covering her eyes with one hand. God, I screwed up.Buffy, Rachel said, putting a hand on her shoulder. Dont...



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Rachel, Buffy said, looking up at her, I got so caught up in the hunt that I didnt seethe risks I was taking. Sure, Im the Slayer, all around jock superhero. But Im not invincible,and I walked right the hell into a trap last night. She shook her head. If that had been any othervampire king, wed all be dead right now.

But it wasnt, Rachel told her. And we won. We beat him. Doesnt that count foranything?

Most of the time, Giles said. Not always.So stop beating yourself up, Rachel said to Buffy. Everything worked out okay. You

did it.Yeah, Buffy agreed. But next time--Theres not gonna be a next time, Rachel said. No more vampires. Theyre gone.From here, Shelley said.What does that mean? Rachel asked.Rachel, Pike said softly. Dont do this to yourself.Rachel looked at Buffy. Buff? Oh God, no, Rachel thought, catching on to what the

others hinted at.Buffy closed her eyes. This isnt going to be easy. Im the Slayer, Rachel. I dont get

vacations. I dont get to quit. Sometimes I win a battle, like this one. But the wars never over.No, Rachel said, her eyes screwing shut. No.Im sorry, Buffy said, taking her hand. The last thing in the world I want to do is hurt

you, after all youve been through. You sure as hell dont deserve this. But you promised me, Rachel said, sniffling. You told me!Buffy stood up and moved around behind the couch to stand next to Rachel. Rachel, part

of me would love to stay here with you guys. You know that. You have to know that.Rachel nodded. So stay, she managed in a tiny voice.I cant, Buffy sighed. As much as part of me wants to, Rachel, I cant. Other people

need my help. Just like you guys did. Buffy met her eyes. What could be a better reason forleaving than slaying more vampires? Saving more people?

Rachel began to cry.Rachel, Buffy said gently, you were the one who told me that I couldnt just sit and

watch forever. You were the one who told me I had powers that no one else had, and that I had touse them. Buffy put her hands on Rachels shoulders. I know you didnt mean I should usethem just for you.

No, Rachel squeaked.Im needed elsewhere, Rachel. Thats the only reason Giles would be here. Believe me,

hes the most selfless guy in the world. She glanced over at him. There are times that I dontlove that about him, but his hearts in the right place.

Giles was speechless.But, Rachel said, turning to face Buffy, Ineed you.Rachel, Buffy said, embracing her. I hate this, Buffy thought as she held Rachel.I hate

it that it has to be like this.Rachel clung to Buffy. You made me believe in myself again, Rachel said, sniffling.

You gave me backme. Those damn things took it away, but you gave it back.Buffy shook her head. It was inside you all along, Rachel.No, Rachel murmured. You gave it back to me. And I dont know whatll happen

when you go. She wiped her nose. I dont wantto know.Buffy broke the embrace. Youll still have Pike and Shelley. They love you.Shelley came over behind Rachel and put her hands on the girls shoulders.



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Its not the same, Rachel said. You can only have one best friend.You have two, Buffy said. You have Pike andShelley.Rachel hung her head. Its not the same, Rachel murmured. I dont want to be alone

again.You wont be alone, Shelley said softly. Well be here.Rachel, Buffy said, taking her hand. So long as I am alive in this world, you will

never be alone. You can count on that. She squeezed Rachels hand. And as long as Shelleyand Pike are in this world, youll never be alone either. Buffy smiled. Thats three more peoplewho care deeply about you than you had six months ago. Keep this up and soon youll have somany friends you wont even remember me.

Rachel shook her head. Fat chance of that.Besides, Buffy told her. If I stay, vampires will just come here looking for me, sooner

or later. But if I go, you get to have a chance at a normal life. She looked at Shelley, and thenPike. All of you. And thats something Ill never have.

You dont know that, for sure, Pike said.Buffy pursed her lips. Sure I do, Pike. Thats my life and welcome to it.Buffy, Shelley said, and the Slayer looked at her.

There arent even words to thank you for what youve given us. She removed her handsfrom Rachels shoulders. You gave us our lives back, she said, moving toward Buffy. Wecould never repay you that. She gave Buffy a hug, holding her close. I owe you for that.

They broke the hug. Pay me back by having the kind of life I never will. And taking careof Rachel.

Shelley smiled. Count on it.Pike, Buffy said, and he came over to her and held her.Youre the man, Buffy. The chosen guy. Dont let all this other stuff cloud your head.She hugged him. I wont. Not again. She pulled back from him. Did you take

correspondence courses from Giles on how to be a watcher?He laughed. No, I just wing it, like you do.She smiled. Thats my motto: When in doubt, fake it.Take care of yourself, Buffy.She nodded. Take care of them. Youre a lucky man, Pike.He looked at Shelley and Rachel. Dont I know it. He looked down at Buffy. But

thanks for making me luckier.Buffy turned to Giles. I have to go pack.Rachel blurted out, Youre leaving now?Buffy smiled sadly. Its still gonna hurt just as much later, Rachel.Rachel nodded, and Buffy made her way up the stairs.This sucks, Rachel whispered to herself, tears in her eyes.

*The sun had nearly set before Buffy said her final farewells and walked with Giles to hisrental car. Pike stood on the front doorstep with his arm around Shelley, waving good-bye as theSlayer and her watcher got in the car and headed out of the driveway and out of their lives.

Rachel watched from the window of her bedroom, tears rolling down her face as she sawthe car fade into the distance, turning the corner and disappearing. She sat there for some time,



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silent except for her crying, watching the street as the sun waned and died and the streetlightscame on.

Almost an hour later Shelley came into her room; the older girl stood in the doorway andwatched Rachel for a while before she entered. Rachel remained facing the window, her backturned to Shelley. She held herself tightly, her shoulders shaking slightly with her sobs.

Shelley came up to her and held her from behind, sliding her arms around Rachel andholding her close. She felt something soft as she wrapped her arms around Rachel, and shelooked down to see the girl clutching the grey bear Buffy had won for her. Shelley pulled herclose.

You gonna be okay? she murmured to Rachel.Rachel shook her head. No, she croaked.Sure you will, Shelley told her. Maybe not today, and maybe not tomorrow, but you

will be.Rachel shook her head again. I dont think so.Shelley nodded and let her go. Well be downstairs when you wanna come down.She turned to go when Rachel whispered, Do you think she misses us?Shelley closed her eyes; she could almost feel the pain Rachel was in. I think she misses

us a lot, Rachel.Rachel nodded. I hope she doesnt forget us.Rachel, Shelley said softly. Buffy wont forget us. She may have saved our lives, but

we saved her soul. A little, anyway. You dont forget someone who does that for you. Ever.Rachel turned to look at Shelley; her dark eyes were rimmed red from all the crying.

Ever? she asked.Shelley came to her and hugged her. Ever.Rachel broke off the embrace after a spell and reached up to her neck with one hand, the

other still clutching the bear. I guess I dont need this any more, she said, removing her collarand tossing it on the floor.

Shelley smiled. Lets go downstairs.Rachel nodded, and Shelley put her arm around the younger girls shoulders as they made

their way down the stairs.

* * *

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Buffy: Innocent Blood Chapter 7

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