Genesis

A/N: Well I got another one done *happy dance* hope you're all still interested in this.

Reviews: Thanks to everyone for all the reviews and emails, they've been inspirational. Keep 'em coming I really do need the back-up.

I wont keep you any more.

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Chapter 33
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Willow and Kennedy had made their way back to their apartment in relative silence, when they entered Kennedy had suggested a nice relaxing bath and had run off to prepare it before Willow could object.

“Will, it’s ready.” She called from the bathroom.

As Willow entered her senses were invaded by the sweet smell of scented candles that were placed all around the bathroom, closing her eyes and inhaling deeply she let the aroma spread over her.

Kennedy watched as her lovers’ face took on an ethereal beauty as she relaxed in the intoxicating atmosphere. Walking toward her she softly placed her arms around the slender body and pulled her into a warm embrace. She smiled as she felt Willows arms encircle her and then giggled a little as she felt hands gently caressing her butt.

“Hey baby.”

“Hey.” Kennedy replied leaning back a little to look in her girlfriend’s eyes.

Smiling softly she brought her arms up and over her lovers shoulders, she traced her fingers gently over the slightly exposed collarbone. She let her fingers follow the ‘V’ of Willows top until she reached the top button, looking into the expressive eyes in front of her she saw no objection so began to undo each button. When she reached the last one she travelled upwards again this time she hooked her fingers under the fabric and began to peal it away, slowly but surely she started to expose the pale skin of her lover.

Once she reached the shoulders she began to move it lower until it finally dropped to the floor. Willow still in the semi embrace lifted her hand and tucked a piece of stray hair behind her girlfriends’ ear, moving her hand slightly she cupped the face in front of her.

Kennedy relaxed into the soft touch and leaned in and planted a delicate kiss on her lovers’ mouth. Her hands began to move again around her lovers back and in one swift movement had released the clasp and removed her lover’s bra.

Once again her hands were not still for long, this time to they moved down to the waistband of the black pants that adorned her lovers hips. Reaching for the clasp she undid it with ease, she began to slide her fingers downwards taking the zipper with her.

Willow gasped feeling the gentle caress of her lovers hands on her body, she closed her eyes as she felt soft lips against her skin and shivered slightly at the feel of a talented tongue tasting her.

Kennedy began to kiss lower over pert breasts stopping to lavish some much needed attention on the already hard nipples. Travelling southwards again she dropped to her knees, looking up she saw the desire she was creating, Willow was stood with her eyes half closed looking down at her, her mouth slightly open. The brunette smiled at the affect she was having and continued on.

Placing her hands on the waistband she began to remove the offending pants, as she lowered the material she kissed each exposed area of skin, she allowed her tongue to dart out every now and again to taste the sweetness of her lover.

Once the pants were at her ankles Willow placed her hands on her lover’s shoulders and lifted her feet to allow the pants to be completely removed. She felt as strong hands ran back up her shapely legs and caught her panties, she giggled as she felt them dragged down in one quick motion. Her breath caught in her throat as she felt the warm breath of her lover tickle her sex.

Kennedy was looking directly at her prize, her mouth slightly agape, her tongue darting out almost snake like trying in desperation to taste he lovers sweet arousal. Placing a gentle kiss on her lovers curls she began to raise once again, when she was stood she began to kiss on and around Willow’s parched lips, her tongue coming into play every now and again eliciting soft moans from the red head.

Feeling her lovers’ arms around her Willow smiled as she felt herself lifted from the ground, she wrapped her arms around the amazingly strong shoulders and allowed herself to be carried to the edge of the bath. She lifted her legs over the edge at felt the heat of the water envelope her body, looking up at her lover she smiled softly.

Once Willow was in the bath Kennedy stepped back a little and began to remove her clothes under the ever watchful gaze of the red head. As she removed the last piece she looked directly into the lust filled eyes of her girlfriend, she felt an air of confidence as she stood completely open with nothing to hide, Willow always made her feel beautiful.

Moving closer to the bath she leaned down and kissed Willow forcefully on the lips, their tongues beginning to battle for dominance yet both willing to be dominated. Placing her hands on either side of the bath she lifted herself in without breaking the kiss, lowering further she positioned herself between her lovers legs. Even with the heat of the water she groaned into the kiss as she felt the heat of her lovers sex pressing into her own.

Willow wrapped her legs around the slender hips of the young woman on top of her bringing her arms around the deceptively strong body she brought her lover down. The both gasped as they felt their bodies' meld together, breast against breast, stomach against stomach, sex against sex.

Grinding her hips in a circular motion Kennedy smiled at the moan that escaped her lover. She placed her one hand on the bath for support while she ran the other down the length of the perfect form currently writhing under her. Stopping her movement once she reached her lovers butt, grabbing hold she lifted the witch to her, keeping the rhythm of her own thrusts.

The water began to move in the same rhythm being set by the two women, almost crashing over the sides with the force of movement. Willow held onto her lover, arms and legs wrapped possessively around the strong body trying to pull her impossibly close while continuing to thrust upwards feeling that wonderful friction.

“I need to taste you baby, shit you feel so good.” Kennedy panted into her lover’s ear.

“Mmm.” Was the only response Willow could offer, she was about to protest as she felt the delicious rhythm slow to a stop.

Kennedy slowed her movements and could sense the disappointment from her lover, smiling to herself she brought her hands to either side of the red heads hips and lifted her out of the water and placed her down on the edge of the bath. Sliding forward she wrapped her arms around her lovers back, leaning down she inhaled the arousal of the woman who sat so wantonly above her.

Willow’s breath caught as she felt the talented tongue run along her length, stopping only to tease at her already swollen and pulsing nub. Grabbing hold of the edge of the bath with one hand she tangled the other in the raven locks between her thighs.

Kennedy felt Willows hand in her hair forcing her on, pulling her closer. She sucked the swollen nub into her mouth and across her teeth, she heard Willow hiss as she began to flick a fast rhythm while continuing to suck.

Willow bucked her hips into the talented mouth, she could feel the burning start to erupt inside her she was close and there was no way she could hold back for much longer.

Sensing how close her lover was Kennedy let go of the pulsing nub she moved lower and began to draw circles around her lovers dripping sex. Tasting the arousal direct from the source Kennedy wondered if this was truly the ambrosia of the Gods. Not being able to resist any longer she plunged her tongue is as deep as she could, feeling the soft walls pulsing around her trying to draw her in deeper.

Willow was moaning and panting heavily at the feel of her lovers’ tongue pushing into her, she began to rock her hips in the same rhythm thrusting against her girlfriends face. She could feel herself getting closer and closer with each thrust, she almost cried out as she felt Kennedy’s tongue curl upwards searching for her sweet spot.

Kennedy curled her tongue, it seemed to have a mind of it’s own as it went in search of it’s prize. Finally finding the sensitive area she began to flick her tongue while continuing the rhythmic thrusts. Feeling the walls pulse even quicker she grabbed hold of Willows hips and brought her forcefully to her waiting mouth.

Willow cried out in ecstasy as she felt herself go over the edge into the wonderful abyss of her orgasm, she felt her body tense and then relax as if all the power in her body had been expelled with the force of the orgasm.

Kennedy helped gently lower her lover back into the now cooling water of the bath, holding her tightly as she began to come down from her high.

“Oh Goddess, I love it when you do that.” Willow spoke between breaths.

“I love it when I do that too.” Kennedy smirked while licking her lips, tasting the remainder of her lover.

“I love you.” Willow stated, she had only said it a couple of times to Kennedy, she was still coming to terms with the fact that she had fallen in love with someone. She felt less guilty about it now though, she knew that Tara would be happy for her.

“I love you too baby.” Kennedy leaned in and placed a chaste kiss on her lover’s mouth. “Now what you say to getting out of this water, it’s starting to get cold.”

“Oh I can think of ways of warming you back up.” Willow grinned as she traced her hand lower and grabbed Kennedy’s butt.

“Oh you can, can you?” Kennedy raised her eyebrow a little as if offering a challenge.

“Well, get your ass out of here and get dry, so I can make you all wet again.” Willow whispered.

Within seconds Kennedy was out of the bath and skidding around the bathroom looking for a towel, she turned at the sound of laughing and began to laugh herself. The mere thought of how Willow could make her wet, was enough to make her brain go to mush while the rest of her began to heat up.

“You’re so cute when you’re horny.” The red head spoke as she stepped out of the bath.

Kennedy looked at her lover for a moment watching as her skin glistened in the light of the candles, she swore she had never seen anything so beautiful. Shaking her head to clear it she hurriedly dried herself.

When they were done Willow took Kennedy’s hand and led them through to the bedroom. They were going to need another bath by the time Willow was done, she smiled at the visions flashing through her mind, things she was sure they were going to achieve tonight.

******

As Buffy and Faith were approaching the door to their apartment Cordelia called from behind them.

“Oh, hey Cor.” Buffy said turning to greet the tall brunette.

“Hey, I just wanted to know if there’s anything you need, I gotta check in with Gun and Fred and there’s a couple of books that Wesley wants so I was wondering if you needed anything.”

“I can’t think of anything yet, when are they gonna send the books for Wesley?” Buffy asked.

“Probably first thing in the morning.” Cordelia surmised.

“Well, I’ll think about it and let you know.” The blonde replied.

“Ok, well I guess I see you guys in the morning, ‘night.” The brunette turned and walked to the opposite door, opening it she stepped through offering a small wave at the two Slayers.

“Was that really Cordelia Chase?” Buffy smirked amused at how different Cordelia was now compared to her old teen rival.

“Yep, I think so, she had C’s butt.” Faith replied.

“Ouch.” She yelped as Buffy clipped here on shoulder. “What was that for?” She asked rubbing the sore spot.

“You were looking at Cordelia’s butt, you shouldn’t be looking at Cordelia’s butt.” Buffy replied as if it was obvious.

“You jealous?” Faith teasedglingling her eyebrows.

“Yeah.” Buffy pouted. “You should be looking at my butt.”

“Oh baby I do, every chance I get.” Faith leered.

Moving closer Buffy pulled Faith into a searing kiss. Faith almost lost her balance with the force Buffy slammed their mouths together, this was a carnal kiss, one showing ownership, Buffy’s mouth began to devour her own and it was all Faith could do not to collapse in a heap there and then.

No sooner had the kiss started but it ended, Buffy stepped back and giggled at Faith who was still stood there, eyes closed mouth open. It took Faith a second to realise that she wasn’t being kissed any more and opened her eyes to find her lover giggling at her.

“Hey shut up you, what d’you expect with what you do to me, it’s a wonder I can stand half the time.” She mumbled slightly embarrassed at her total lack of control.

“It’s ok baby, you do the same to me.”

Faith looked up shocked by the words of her lover, she never thought she could make Buffy feel that way.

“Really?” She asked shyly.

“Yes really, now come on, lets get some drinks and go spar on the roof.”

“You’re on.” Faith replied darting to the door of the apartment and rushing inside.

They hadn’t been on patrol for a few days, and with everything going on they hadn’t been able to spar together either. There was a lot of pent up aggression lying just under the surface of each of them, their ‘slayer’ wanted to be free, to hunt, to kill, to do what she is meant to do. They hated having to suppress the slayer she was part of who they were, so denying the slayer any kind of battle was also denying themselves.

Making their way through the apartmen the the balcony they ascended the steps. Once on the roof they made their way over to the small sparing area they had created. Both stopped and faced each other.

“Think you can take me B?” Faith challenged dropping into her fighting stance.

“Anytime F.” Buffy played along.

“Give us a kiss.”

Facing off against each other they began to circle, each eyeing the other cautiously waiting for any sign of an opening. Buffy was caught for a moment in the beauty radiating from the dark slayer, looking over her with unashamed appreciation she didn’t notice as he dark lover dropped to the floor and swiped her feet from under her.

Faith watching the distraction wash over her lovers’ face made her move, dropping and quickly kicking out her one she she spun taking her blonde lovers feet in one smooth motion. Continuing her movement she shifted her centre of gravity lunging forward and landed on top of her lover.

Before Buffy could process what had happened she was staring up into the deep dark pools of her girlfriends’ eyes. Again she was caught in the beauty of them, they showed so much emotion. If you looked hard enough you could tell exactly how the brunette was feeling.

“Bit distracted there B?”

“Well, can you honestly blame me?” Buffy replied. Hoping the discussion was enough of a distraction Buffy raised her legs and bucked Faith off her, rolling over she got to her feet.

“Looks like I’m not the only one who’s a little off her game.” The blonde teased.

“Oh that’s it Blondie, you’re going down.” The brunette spoke as she began to rise.

“That’s presumptuous of you baby.” Buffy leered.

Chuckling at her girlfriends’ obvious attempt to get her to let her guard down, Faith began to circle Buffy again.

Moving in graceful silence the slayers matched each other step for step, Buffy tried first this time lunging out to punch Faith in the stomach, but was stopped by a forceful block. This was the opening they had been waiting for and before they could say anymore they had begun attacking and defending.

Each punch or kick thrown was expertly blocked neither of them had managed to get a solid strike on the other. They continued on in their graceful dance arms and legs flowing in their purposeful moves. The heat sing ing to radiate between them was immense, their moves became faster and faster, neither holding back yet still unable to connect solidly with the other.

The moon shone brightly above them, their silhouettes dancing off the turrets surrounding them, the scene was breathtaking. Dark against light, two great forces coming together gracing the night with their ethereal displays. There was silence all around, nothing could be heard, even the wind seemed to have stopped as if standing still watching the scene play out and feeling honoured being a witness to this primal dance.

The sky was clear stars illuminating the darkness, as the fight between the slayers increased in speed they seemed to shine even brighter as if wanting to cast their light on the two.

Faith had stopped watching for Buffy’s next move a while back, she let her senses open and began to feel them. She blocked and countered each move with grace and ease, the force that was being used was far and away beyond what they would normally use while sparring. But there was something about them tonight they were letting go completely, trusting in each other.

Buffy was watching her lover intently while defending herself from another of Faith’s attacks, she was awed at the way her lover moved, graceful almost feline in appearance, slender limbs moving with hidden power. Her raven locks dancing wildly around her shoulders casting moving shadows across her skin.

Skin that was beginning to shine with the beads of perspiration adorning it, the light from the moon adding to the whole ensemble, Buffy could feel a strong desire take over her body as she continued to unconsciously block the attack. All her senses were now trained on her lover for a different reason her nostrils flared as she sensed another wave of arousal come off her dark lover.

Before she knew what was happening Faith felt Buffy’s mouth on hers she groaned as she felt her mouth forced open and a strong tongue invade her. Buffy for her part brought her hand up into the raven locks and held Faith not letting her back away from the force of this kiss.

It all happened so fast that Faith couldn’rk ork out how Buffy had gone from the one being attacked to the one who was attacking. She had somehow managed to get through Faith’s defences and was currently trying to devour her.

Faith grabbed Buffy’s hips roughly and lifted her so her legs were wrapped around her own hips. Turning she walked over and pushed them forcefully into one of the stone turrets. Still in the throws of the heated embrace Faith brought her hands to the front of Buffy’s top and without consideration sheped ped the article clean down the centre.

“I liked that top.” Buffy pouted.

“I’ll buy ya another.” Faith offered.

Not giving Buffy a chance to respond she forced their mouths together once more, this was nothing like they had experienced before, usually their lovemaking was soft and full of l car caresses, this was nothing like that, this purepure animalistic need.

Buffy began to push herself against the wall using it as leverage to thrust herself into her lover, she could feel the friction against her and it made her legs tighten around the brunette. She wanted to feel her lover, so she grabbed at Faith’s top and in one swift movement ripped it from her body.

Faith groaned into the kiss as she felt the chill of the night air against her bare breasts, her already hard nipples seemed to harden even more. She pushed against her lover thrusting her hips harder into the petite woman building a rhythm, she brought her hands to her lovers breasts and squeezed them roughly, if she had used this strength on anyone but a slayer they would be crying out in pain, but it only seemed to urge her lover on.

Buffy felt as her breasts were punished under the force of the lovers’ hands she felt amazing, this was something new to her, this carnal desire, this need to possess and be possessed was different from anything she had ever felt before, never once had she wanted to own someone and never had she wanted to give up ownership of herself.

“God Faith fuck me.” The blonde panted while placing rough kisses along the strong jaw of the brunette.

Hearing the need in the blondes voice Faith backed up a little allowing Buffy’s legs to drop to the floor. Wasting no time she ripped Buffy pants open and forced her hand into them, she moaned feeling her lovers’ wetness instantly.

Buffy bucked her hips against the invasion and felt another flood of arousal leave her body, she couldn’t ever remember feeling this turned on. She clasped her mouth over Faith’s pulse point and bit down hard, hearing her lovers’ scream of pleasure only urged her on more.

Faith thought her knees were about to give out as she felt the wave of arousal travel from her neck down her body and straight to her centre. She was close and she hadn’t even been touched yet. Giving into her lovers need she slipped two fingers inside the blonde, greeted by yet another forceful thrust she continued her assault.

Buffy couldn’t take much more but she wanted Faith with her on this, she wanted her lover to feel how she felt, to experience this together. Gathering some semblance of thoughe rhe roughly prized open Faith’s leather pants and forced her hand inside, not waiting she searched out her goal. As if on instinct her fingers found her lovers dripping sex and thrust inside.

“FUCK.” Faith screamed as she felt Buffy enter her.

“Ya think?” Buffy replied.

Looking into each other’s eyes they began to push into each other at a punishing rate, if they were not slayers they would be screaming in agony not ecstasy. Anyone privy to this display would have thought that they were wild animals claiming their mate, mouths biting every piece of exposed skin they could reach, hands squeezing and pinching everywhere, hips thrusting hard and fast against each other.

Buffy had a sudden thought and opened up their link, she watched as Faith’s pupils dilated and knew she was achieving her goal.

“Can you, can you feel that?” She asked.

“Fuck yes.” Faith replied. She wasn’t sure at first but looking into the hazel pools she knew that what she felt was exactly what Buffy was feeling. Somehow Buffy had managed to open herself to her, allow her to feel everything through their connection. It was amazing, she could feel Buffy inside her but she could also feel ghost like sensations of how she was making Buffy feel.

Looking once again into each other’s eyes they began to thrust harder almost grunting at the effort.

“Together.” Buffy said.

Faith nodded in response while curling her fingers inside the blonde, she almost screamed as she felt the ghost like movement inside herself but Buffy hadn’t moved her fingers, they were still pumping into her.

“Oh fuck, shit!!!” She exclaimed.

Seeing the response the brunette was having and feeling her sweet spot being massaged Buffy began to shake, her orgasm came from nowhere, then all of a sudden it was there, she was riding high, screaming each others names into the night they held on to each other as the last throws of pleasure ran through them.

Collapsing back against the wall Buffy wrapped her arms around the brunette in dire need of support, her legs were sure to give out she knew it. She had never come that hard in her life.

Faith leaned her weight into the petite blonde and tried to catch her breath.

“That was, fucking amazing.” She was shocked at how rough her voice sounded, sure it was normally deeper than the average girl but this was new.

“Good.” Buffy replied, she had wanted to try something like that ever since she found out that Faith could feel her, she wanted to see if she could, well force is the wrong word but wanted to see if she could make Faith feel her.

Relaxing into each other they both jumped when the heard a couple of wolves howling in the distance.

“You think that’s Fang and Ellie?” Buffy asked.

“Well with the noise we made I would say their just offering a Woohoo in our direction.” Faith chuckled.

“Yeah, I think we need to learn how to be a little quieter, it’s a wonder everyone ain’t running up here to see which one of us is dead.” Buffy joked she was finding it easier to go back to the banter the two had when they first met.

It had been difficult at first because each time they would start with the banter it reminded her of the bad times. But now they laughed and joked a lot more freely, things that were said no longer cut so deep, sure some things did but they could see when the other was upset by a comment and quickly tried to rectify the situation.

Feeling Buffy shiver slightly at the chill of the night Faith suggested that they go back down and get into bed.

Curling up into each other both safe and warm they drifted off to sleep.

*****

Waking early Cordelia made her way down to the main kitchen, she set the coffee maker going and walked through the door at the rear. She stood on the back steps and looked out at the expanse of the property, the Scoobs had done well for themselves, the sun was just appearing over the horizon and she watched as the sky changed from purple-black to pink and then to wonderful blue.

She didn’t know how long she was there, she had been lost in her thoughts of Angel once again, the conversation she had had with Faith was still on her mind. What should she do, should she talk to him? Should she admit her feelings for him? If she did, what would that mean? Where would they go from here? Even if he felt the same way there was no guarantee that they would be together. So mauestuestions running through her mind and on top of all that her head was still hurting from the pain of the last vision. She really needed to get something done about it, with all the resources at Wolfram and Hart they should be able to find out why the pain is so bad.

Jumping a little at the sound of a door closing she turned to see Ami stood there.

“Sorry, I didn’t know anyone was out here.” Ami offered an apology at the stunned brunette.

“It’s ok, just a little jumpy.” Cordelia spoke softly to the new arrival. “Did you sleep well?”

“Not bad, but it’s never the same as your own bed.”

“True, you want some coffee?” Cordelia smiled.

“I’d love some.” Ami answered, she was normally an early riser but still couldn’t function properly without the correct amount of caffeine.

Following Cordelia back into the kitchen she sat at the breakfast bar, she watched intently as Cordelia poured the coffee.

“Your head still hurting?” She enquired seeing the slight frown on Cordelia’s face.

“It’s not so bad, I kinda get used to it.” The ex cheerleader stated.

Ami noticed that the response to the question seemed to be a little too rehearsed, but she decided not to call Cordy on it.

“So ah, you’re one of the LA crew then?”

“Yeah, I suppose I am, I use to be a Scooby back in the day, one of the original cast.” Cordelia answered with a smile, she was fond of the memories from high school, even if at the time she tried to portray nonchalance deep down she did care about the others.

“Original cast, you make it sound like a TV show or something.” Ami chuckled.

“Well, the amount of things that happened I’m convinced one of the networks would pick it up.” Cordy joked a little.

She had only met Ami last night but in that short space of time had begun to like her, she was intelligent and knew a fare amount about demon cultures he father had obviously schooled her well.

“So you ok with being here? I mean hiding and stuff.” She questioned.

“Yeah, I’m used to running, Dad tends to get himself tied up in all the wrong things.” Ami answered with a slight grin.

“What about your Mom?”

“She’s ok, I lived with her most of my life, Dad wasn’t around much but when I was old enough to take care of myself I decided to join him. It’s been fairly quiet over the last few years, I think this is the longest Dad has settled down.”

“He travelled a lot huh?” Cordy asked understanding a little about that, even though her father didn’t exactly travel far, he was never home, always at business meetings or entertaining some big client out of town. He thought her credit card was a suitable surrogate for his love.

“Yeah, he would always be running off on some secret mission or something, but I don’t hate him for it cos whenever he came home he always made me feel special, he always took the time to get to know me even though he missed out on a lot.” Ami smiled remembering some fun times with her father.

Kriss had never been able to stay for long but what he lacked in quantity he definitely made up for in quality. He wouldn’t exactly spoil her but he would make sure that she had whatever she wanted as long as she saw the true value in things. He taught he many things about humans and demons alike, and also showed her that sometimes the line dividing the two species smudged beyond recognition.

They were a perfect example of the smudged lines they were demons yet lived peacefully among humans. Ami was able to walk around in the image of a human, able to work as a human and have human friends. Yet there were many ‘humans’ who were so sadistically evil they should be banished to another plain.

“So how do you know James?” Cordelia enquired.

“Well Dad worked with the Council on a few different missions, I gather that’s how Giles know him. Thomas was one of the few watchers that Dad was able to trust, when we were finally ready to try to settle down Dad contacted him, there wasn’t much in the way of demon activity around here even though it’s home to another Hellmouth. So we decided to move here, Dad opened the bar and Thomas and James became like a sort of extended family.” Ami explained her relationship with the boy and his father.

“So he’s like a little brother to you then?” Cordy surmised.

“Yeah you could say that, when Thomas had to run me and Dad were trying to look out for James yunno, but we didn’t know this was going to happen. When he first went missing we tried everything to locate him but came up empty. We had many of the regulars of the bar looking out for him but nothing. We had almost given up hope then he turns up all battered.” Ami dropped her head in defeat, she had tried everything to find James in the beginning but not knowing if he had run of his own accord due to he brutal death of his father or if he had been a lucky kill for some vamp.

“Hey, you couldn’t have stopped this. Trust me, these things happen, you can’t protect everyone all the time.” Cordelia offered a little support. “In any case it’ll all turn out good you got the best slayers on your side now remember.”

Ami smiled a little at that comment, Dawn had explained some of the things that Buffy had been through, the apocalypses she had stopped with the help of all her friends, she was awed at how this group of misfits who seemed to have nothing going for them had managed to save the world countless times.

“I guess you’re right.” She concurred.

“Of course I’m right I’m Queen ‘C’ girl and Queen ‘C’ is always right.” Cordy stated with a firm nod showing a little of the ‘tude she had back in the day.

*******

Soon enough the house was a hive of activity, Angel and Spike had the pleasure of training some of the SIT’s in the basement. Buffy wanted to know what they thought of their progress since fighting the First.

All of the SIT’s had been out on patrols but only Vi and Rhona had been able to go unaccompanied. She valued their opinion on whether the girls were ready or not, she was afraid that some of them wouldn’t be ready either mentally or physically. Even though they had fought the First and they had gone out on patrols there was almost a safety net under them. She knew herself that it was easier to fight in numbers the strong would help defend the weak.

Dawn had been doing a good job in trying to keep track of their individual strengths and weaknesses while training, but the true test only came when you faced your enemy. In the training room you had no reason to be afraid and your natural instinct to run wouldn’t be a factor.

She had asked the vampires to go easy at first just test them out, but once they felt that they had someone she told them to go all out. She had briefed the SIT’s first that this was a test but that Angel and Spike would not be holding back, they had to fight for real or they would get hurt.

It had been going well both Angel and Spike were impressed by the speed and agility of some of the girls, they were still not up to either Buffy or Faith’s standards but then they hadn’t seen as much action.

Deciding that it was time for a break Spike called a halt to the proceedings telling the girls to go get lunch and that they would reconvene later.

Joining the rest of the group in the library they joined in the tedious task of researching, this had to be one of the most difficult things that any of them had had to research. There was no texts containing anything, they couldn’t find any prophecies relating to it, they couldn’t find anything it was as if all information had been wiped out.

“This is useless.” Faith stated dropping her head into the large tome she was currently leafing through.

“Aw poor baby.” Buffy pouted a little while rubbing Faith’s back a little trying to comfort her.

“W..nv….go…fi.nth.” Faith mumbled into the pages not willing to lift her head, she hated research and this was just torture.

“Huh?” Buffy enquired not understanding anything that had just been said.

“I said, we’re never gonna find nothing.” Faith lifted her head and turned to pout at her lover.

“Hmmm look at that lip.” Buffy wiggled her eyebrows and quickly moved forward to catch the pouting lip with her own, sucking gently she giggled at the moan that escaped her girlfriend.

“No fair B, I forgot what I was complaining about now.” Faith mock scowled.

“Really? It’s good to know I can have that affect.”

“You have no idea.” Faith replied turning back to the heavy tome.

Before she could complain again the peace in the library was broken by Cordelia entering followed by Ami both were carrying trays of food and drinks.

“Hey guys, thought we could use a break, the kids are tucking into lunch so I thought we could do the same.” She smiled waving at the trays laden down with all sorts of food.

“Cor, have I told ya how much I love ya.” Faith dived out of her chair and towards the food before anyone could blink.

“Some things never change.” Buffy smiled at her girlfriend who was busy building a sandwich.

When she was finished building her sandwich Faith returned to her seat completely unaware of everyone in the room staring at her. As she lifted it to her m she she glanced up.

“What?” She exclaimed as she went to take a bite out of the food.

“Ah, you wanna leave some for the others?” Buffy asked raising her eyebrow indicating to the sandwich and then back over to the almost empty tray.

“Ooops, got carried away again.” Faith blushed a little.

Everyone erupted in laughter causing the brunette to blush even more but eventually she joined in.

“I’ll go get some more.” Ami offered lifting the tray and heading out of the library.

“I’ll give you a hand.” Spike offered.

Ami turned to look inquisitively at the vampire, she was used to normal vampires not used to this almost human side of them. Without objection she allowed Spike to follow her through the house and into the kitchen.

The others remained behind watching as Faith tucked in to her lunch. The research had not been going well at all, Cordelia had contacted Fred and Gun and they were busy trying to get as much information as possible about the impending rituals.

Gun was going to try to contact the ‘Senior Partners’ through the White Room, but they held little hope in his success. The ‘Partners’ had refused to help Angel with something else not so long ago just because he asked them for help, they deemed it as weakness and would not allow a CEO of theirs to have any weakness.

Fred and Lorne were going to contact some ally demon clans to see if they had any information that would be of interest. But that was all they had the books had revealed nothing.

Willow entered the library looking rather dazed she had gone to James earlier and offered to perform some healing spells. He had accepted and so she had spent the best part of the morning chanting different spells in order to heal his wounds.

“Hey baby, you look tired.” Kennedy stated walking over to greet her girlfriend.

“I am a little, I think I’m gonna take a nap after lunch.” The red head stated quietly.

“Is everything ok Willow, I mean a few healing spells shouldn’t take this much out of you.” Giles asked worried that the witch may be suffering.

“Yes it’s ok Giles, I think I’m just outta practise, I mean other than the protection spells on this place I haven’t done much magic and I suppose I’m just not used to it. Don’t worry I’ll contact the Coven and ask them for a little help, I’ll be fine.” Willow spoke confidently, she knew that the protection spell and the healing spells shouldn’t be that draining but she also knew that the Coven would help her get through this.

Ever since the ‘incident’ as she liked to refer to it, she has held back from using magic, she had practised a little but she still doesn’t feel ready for anything big. The spell she cast to help with the demise of the first was huge she had felt the magic pulsing through her body for days after. It felt different from before though this feeling was of warmth and of comfort.

Kennedy had done a lot to help her she had supported her from the start. Sure it had been a little strained on times, especially when Willow had drained her power back when they were still trying to fight the first. The young woman had been there for her without overcrowding her, offering her silent support and waiting for Willow to turn to her.

Willow smiled up at her lover and held her a little tighter. When Tara had been taken from her she never thought she would be able to love again, but this young brunette in her arms had not taken ‘no’ for an answer. She was funny, intelligent, beautiful and strong yet she could also be the softest person in the room and Willow loved that about her.

“Huh, sorry Buff, what did you say?” She asked being forced out of her musings by her best friend.

“I asked how James was doing?” The blonde repeated herself. “You sure you’re ok?” She finished a little concerned.

“Yes I’m fine, will everyone stop worrying about me.” The red head replied strain showing in her voice. “James will be fine, I’ve managed to heal his broken leg and his ribs, he’s still in a bit of pain but he should be fine with some more rest.”

“Is it ok if I go and see him, I mean see if he needs anything?” Dawn asked.

“Yeah sure Dawnie, just let him rest if that’s what he wants.” Willow answered the teen.

“Great, I’ll take him some food and stuff, he’s bound to be bored.” Dawn spoke as she rushed to leave the library.

*****

This was bad news, Klee was currently sat facing his mehey hey had come to report on the whereabouts of the boy, he had been moved and from what his men could work out he had been moved to a very powerful place. His men were going to try to gain access to the property but had bore witness when Kriss’ car was stopped as it entered.

Not knowing what else to do one of them had stayed behind just in case the boy was moved again while the others had returned to pass the news of the development.

“Who are these people?” Klee exclaimed.

“We do not know sir, they are very powerful we think these are the people responsible for demise in the demon populous in this area.”

“Find out all you can about them, this plan can not fail me.” Klee stood and walked around the men and left the room.

He could not believe that his plan could be in jeopardy, from what they knew of the boy before he did not know any powerful people, they had noted that new new of demons and such but that was understandable considering his fathers’ network of connections.

The next ritual was to take place in a couple of days, and the last one a few more days after that, he had to get the book. The final ritual was specified in it, the sacred words that are to be spoken are written on it’s pages, centuries have passed opportunities missed but this time, oh this time nothing was going to go wrong. Standing a little taller at this thought Klee continued on his way to update his Master.

*******

Knocking lightly on the door Dawn waited for a reply on hearing the rough voice call for her to enter she opened it and walked through trying not to drop anything.

“Hey, I thought I’d bring you some food and drinks, and well I got you a few magazines, sorry they’re mostly girlie but there’s not much choice around here, I did get Faith and Xander to lend you some of their comics though, so that should be ok for you, or of course you can watch some TV and I could get Xander to bring you a DVD player yunno so you can watch some movies and stuff……and I better take a breath before I pass out.” Dawn blushed a little at her outburst.

“Thanks, I think I’ll stick with the magazines and stuff for now.” James smiled over at the young woman he guessed she must have been around sixteen or seventeen, he though she looked kinda cute babbling away.

“Sorry. I should of asked, how are you feeling?”

“Much better, whatever it is that Willow did, man it feels good. I can actually take a deep breath now.” James answered, he was impressed with what Willow had done.

He had been sceptical at first but Kriss had explained that everything would be ok and just to trust in the magic. Willow had been great, she had really made him feel at ease, he was a little scared at first thinking that maybe she would turn him into a frog or something, or maybe stand there png rng rabbits outta hats. He chuckled a little at how ridiculous he had been.

“What’s so funny?” Dawn asked noticing the amused look on James’ face.

“Well, when Willow offered to do some magic to make me feel better, I had visions of her pulling rabbits outta hats and stuff.” James explained laughing a little.

Dawn looked at him strangely for a moment then came the visuals of Willow dressed in some shabby sequined dress waving her arms around while frantically trying to get her props to stand up. The thought made Dawn start to giggle she could picture it so easily.

“Now that would be entertaining.” Dawn laughed again.

The ice had been broken the pair began to chat about some light things, you know what kind of music they were into, what’s their favourite food, what’s the best-flavoured ice cream. It had been good for the two of them, James found it easy to relax around Dawn he thought she was funny and the faces she would make were just so cute, he found himself blushing a couple of times as he caught himself lingering a little to long while looking at her.

Dawn was enjoying talking to James they had been telling different kinds of stories ranging from boring high school to Dawn relaying some of the slayer battles. They had been getting on really well and neither of them had noticed how much time had actually passed.

That was of course until Kriss had come back up to request their presence at a meeting about to take place before dinner. They both looked shocked as they realised that they had been talking for about four hours, it had only felt like an hour tops.

With Kriss’ help James got ready while Dawn waited patiently outside, when he was ready they made their way to the library, each hoping for some good news.

Entering the library Dawn knew straight away that there wasn’t any good news. Her sister was currently sat on Faith’s lap snuggled into her looking off at an unseen point in front of her. The others were much the same all of them quiet waiting for the meeting to start.

“Oh hello James, how are you feeling?” Wesley asked noting the new arrivals.

“I’m feeling good thanks.” James smiled he looked around the room quickly, his eyes finally falling on the green pools of the red head. “And thank you Willow, I don’t know how you did it, but thanks.”

“No problem.” Willow blushed.

Everyone moved to take their place at the large table, Buffy and Faith sat together not willing to stray too far from the other. Willow and Kennedy were much the same the red head had not let go of her lover’s hand since they had arrived. The others placed themselves at various points readying themselves for whatever was to come.

“Right then, I suppose we can start.” Giles looked at everyone, when he saw he had their attention he continued. “We’ve heard from Gun and as expected the Senior Partners have declined to help. Fred and Lorne have also been unsuccessful but we do have a possible lead on who has the diamond. We’re waiting for some more information on them.”

“Well it’s not all bad.” Faith offered.

“No, not all, but we still do not have any clues as to how these rituals are performed and we do not know if they can be stopped. We really must make the decision on retrieving the Book of Zirex I think it is our only option.” Giles spoke an air of worry adorning his features.

“Yeah, I think you’re right Giles.” Buffy agreed turning to face up the table she looked directly at James. “Time to cough up the goodies.”

James swallowed hard at the look of strength in the petite slayers eyes it was time for him to reveal the books location. It seemed ironic that he had spent the best part of a month being beaten and terrorised by a bunch of demons and now he was going to give up it’s location to a bunch of strangers.

“Ok, I suppose if we have no other choice.” He stated, still not liking the fact he was going to tell them, but somehow he trusted them, they had taken them in without a word, they had offered comfort and understanding.

Seeing no other reason not to, James began to explain exactly where the location was. Everyone was shocked to discover that it was actually hidden in his apartment, the apartment he had shared with his father. He ashamedly admitted to not caring about the books that his father had left him when his father had been run out of town.

There was a sense of understanding as James tried to relay how he had felt when his father had run. It had been difficult for him, he had begged his father to let him go with him but he had been convinced to stay behind. He had tried to relay how he felt when he heard that his father haen ken killed another of the watcher’s who was also on the run had witnessed his brutal murder.

Willow pulled up schematics of James apartment building enabling James to point out exactly where the books where hidden. It had been decided that they would retrieve all the books, James didn’t know exactly what books where contained in the collection altogether but he did know of some watcher diaries and other rare books that had peaked Giles and Wesley’s curiosity.

Deciding that they would plan the extraction after dinner they all left the library to join the SIT’s in the now well over crowded dining room. It seemed to have been yet another long day and they were all sure there were many more to come.

*****

TBC
*****

A/N: I'll try to update as quick as I can, but I gotta paper-cut in work today *pouts* so I may have to have stitches and stuff ^_^.

Let me know what you think as always, I really do appreciate all the comments good and bad.