Genesis

A/N: Well here ya go folks, I hope there's still interest in this story, sorry it's been so long but with the problems on the site and stuff there wasn't much I could do.

Dedication: My Inspiration, My Guiding Light, My Princess...this ones for you.

F/B: Please, please, please let me know if y'all still interested in this one. I love hearing your thoughts, comments and ideas.

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Chapter 34
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Opening her eyes cautiously at the sun glaring through the curtains she focused on the soft glow of numbers in front of her, seven thirty, it was way to early to be awake. Feeling her lovers’ body pressed against her and an arm wrapped over her side she smiled to herself, at least there was a benefit to waking early she got to spend even more precious time with her.

Carefully as not to wake her lover she turned to face her, settling back she looked at her lovers’ perfect face. Raising her hand she gently moved a stray lock that had been obstructing her view, she was still having a hard time believing that they were together. After everything they had been through, after everything they put each other through, she silently sent thanks to whoever it may be for bringing them together, for allowing them the honour of being able to love the other.

Leaning in gently she began to place feather like kisses at each corner of her lovers’ mouth, moving inward with each kiss. They had woken each other like this since their first night together as a couple. It was something small that seemed to strengthen their love for each other, bringing each other out of slumber into the warmth of the others emotions being conveyed through the simple gesture.

Feeling her lover respond she started to deepen the kiss and soon tongues were beginning their morning ritual, each striving to make up for the hours spent sleeping, each re-introducing themselves.

“Mmmm morning baby.” A slightly sleep laden voice drifted to her ears.

“Morning sexy.” She husked back.

Pulling back slightly she looked into her girlfriends eyes. She would never tire of staring into their depths, she could spend hours mesmerised by them.

“I love you.” She stated, the words didn’t seem to hold enough meaning behind how she felt but there was no other way of saying it.

“I love you to.” Her lover leaned in and placed a soft kiss on her nose before pulling back and giggling.

“Urgh I hate it when you do that B.” The brunette pouted.

“I know, but I just love the way you pout.” Buffy giggled at her pouting lover.

“I do not pout.” Faith huffed.

“Oh yeah ya do, if you didn’t I wouldn’t be able to do this.” She stated and leaned in capturing Faith pouting bottom lip.

Sucking on her lovers’ lip she heard a soft moan emanate from her, pulling back she grazed her teeth over the now swollen lip.

“Hmmm, remind me to pout more often.” The brunette stated dreamily.

“I will, what time is it?”

“Just before eight.”

“Oh good plenty of time.” Buffy wiggled her eyebrows.

“Plenty of time for what? What you planning Blondie?”

“I just though a little breakfast in bed.” With that said Buffy pushed Faith over onto her back.

“Yeah, what you planning to eat B?”

“You.” The blonde stated and quickly lowered herself down her lovers’ body.

Faith automatically spread her legs wider granting easier access for her girlfriend. Buffy amazed her sometimes the usually shy blonde could become quite the aggressor.

Settling herself between her lovers’ legs Buffy was faced with her feast, her breath caught a little as she could see the signs of arousal glistening in front of her. Taking a deep breath she inhaled the scent, it was intoxicating.

Faith flung her arms back and grabbed the headboard as she felt her lovers’ tongue for the second time that morning. Her hips rose involuntary as the perfect mouth was devouring her clit. Crying out in to the room her approval at what her lover was doing to her.

Buffy could feel as well as hear what her ministrations were doing to her lover, she loved the way the brunette tasted, and she couldn’t get enough. Lowering her mouth she teased at the entrance granting her senses the sweet musk direct from the source. Thrusting her tongue in deeply she groaned as she felt the walls begin to contract around her trying to pull her in deeper.

Faith had her head flung back, her feet planted firmly on her lovers’ back, her own back arching off the bed, her breathing was ragged at best. Squeezing her eyes closed she thought she was going to pass out with the heat of arousal coursing through her body. Every inch of her felt as if she was on fire, no one had ever been able to make her feel this way.

Holding on to the brunettes’ hips with a strength that would surely bruise any mere human Buffy continued her oral assault. Removing her tongue to whimpers from her lover she pulled back slightly, moving her hands under her girlfriends’ hips she lifted her a little off the bed.

Faith was ready to protest at the removal of the tongue that was oh so close to taking her over the edge, when she felt herself lifted of the bed. Her curiosity was answered when she felt that expert tongue begin to rim her puckered hole.

Hearing the approving gasp drove Buffy on, she licked on and around her lover tasting the arousal that was running between her girlfriends cheeks. She felt as Faith pushed against her tongue craving more, feeling bolder she pushed against the puckered flesh and was delighted when access was granted easily. Beginning a slow rhythm she began to tongue fuck Faith’s ass.

Faith almost screamed out in ecstasy as she felt the intrusion, never had she let anyone else take her this way, but this was amazing she could feel the tension rolling in her stomach, her breathing was becoming short sharp bursts of breath, moans were emanating around the room, sweat glistening off every part of her.

Buffy could feel how close Faith was, in one swift movement she had removed her tongue from it’s current location and thrust it deeply back inside her lovers’ sex. Pulling the brunette closer she clamped her mouth down while continuing to drive her tongue in and out of the forcefully contracting hole.

“Fuck, shit B, I’m gonna come all over your face baby.” Faith announced.

Hearing her lover only urged Buffy on, picking up the pace she thrust her tongue forward and up slightly hitting her lovers’ most sensitive spot.

Faith tensed as soon as Buffy’s tongue hit it’s target, lights flashed behind her closed eyes and her body began to pulse in time with the force of the orgasm currently forcing it’s way out of her body straight into her lovers’ mouth.

Buffy froze with her lover waiting for the inevitable, and she wasn’t disappointed as her lovers’ cum ran down her throat. This was definitely the best kind of breakfast, loving the taste of her girlfriend Buffy began to lap at every drop she could find.

“Hey stop, B, come on stop, or I ain't functioning today.” Faith pushed at her girlfriends head to try to get her to stop, if they carried on like this Faith was likely to want to ‘call a sicky’ for the day and stay in bed with this incorrigible blonde.

“Dwmpha.” Was the muffled reply.

“Huh? Didn’t anyone ever tell you not to talk with you mouth full?” Faith chuckled.

“Ha ha miss funny. I said I don’t wanna stop, you taste too good.” Buffy relented and started to crawl back up her girlfriend’s sleek body.

“Lemme see.” The brunette replied pulling her girlfriend in to a searing kiss.

Faith could taste herself on and in the blondes’ mouth it turned her on just thinking of how that taste had gotten there.

“Hmm not bad. Not as good as you though.”

“Oh I think we’re on a par.” Buffy smiled.

“Perhaps we better test your theory.” Faith stated quickly flipping the blonde over.

Laughing at her lovers’ surprised expression she started to move down towards the source of discussion. Just as she was about to dive in there was a knock at the apartment door.

“Ignore em.” She stated running her tongue along the length of her lovers’ folds.

‘Buffy, Faith are you awake, you’re gonna be late.’ Dawn’s voice was heard from outside.

“Urgh.” Faith let out a disgruntled noise.

“Fuck, I hate my life.” Buffy dropped her head on her pillow in defeat.

“Can’t we say we got the flue or somethin’?” Faith pleaded from her position under the comforter.

“Yeah right they’re gonna believe that.”

“Ok so tell em we wanna stay in bed screwing each others’ brains out.”

“Hmm that might work, at least it would give us a few hours while Giles stopped blushing from embarrassment.” Buffy giggled.

‘Buffy, are you in there?’ Came the witch’s voice.

“Fuck it’s like a conspiracy.” Faith stated incredulously.

“I better go tell em we’re up.”

“But we ain’t up yet, that was my next move.” Faith began to pout again.

“Aww poor baby, come ‘ere.” Buffy opened her arms out to her lover.

Faith pulled herself up into the waiting arms of her lover, swearing that after they take down the ‘big bad’ they were having a vacation, just the two of them with no interruptions.

On hearing the raised voices outside begin to discuss the merits of kicking down their door, Buffy decided that now would be a good time to get up. Leaving the brunette sprawled across the bed she donned her robe and went to calm her sister and friend down.

Faith pulled the comforter over her head and sighed deeply, sure she loved the fact that she had people who cared for her and worried about her but boy their timing could be way off sometimes. With another sigh she flung the comforter off her naked body deciding she might as well get up, there was no way they’d be able to ‘get back to things’ once everyone had left.

Making her way through to the bathroom she decided to take a shower, turning it on to the desired temperature she stepped under the pulsing spray. Placing her hands out in front of her on the cold tile she relaxed under the hot stream letting the pressure ease her tense muscles.

Tipping her head back the stream of water hit her face with force cleansing her, reviving her. She lost herself within the water, her mind blank her body relaxed.

Feeling warm tingles begin to run through her, she grinned Buffy must have managed to get rid of their intruders. Since the beginning she had felt this connection with the blonde, in the past she always put it down to the ‘Slayer bond’ but now she knew it was more than that, much more because whenever Buffy was around it filled her with a sense of belonging.

Finally having to convince her sister and her best friend that her and Faith would be down soon Buffy returned to the bedroom. She was a little disappointed at first to see that her lover had vacated the ruffled bed, hearing the shower running she smiled mischievously to herself.

Opening the door and entering as quietly as possible she focused her eyes on the silhouette behind the misted glass. Stealing herself from her thoughts she began to move towards the shower undoing her robe and slipping it off her shoulders letting it drop to the floor just before she stepped in to join her lover.

Faith was standing with he hands against the tiled wall, head thrown back her raven locks clung to her neck and shoulders. Buffy stood watching as the water cascaded through the thickness of the dark tresses out over strong shoulders down following every curve over the perfect butt to continue it’s journey down the brunettes muscular legs finally becoming one with the rest of the honoured droplets around the dark slayers feet.

Her mouth was dry in anticipation of following that exact same path with her tongue. Closing the remaining distance between them she reached out her hands, using her fingertips lightly she ran her hands from the brunettes’ shoulders and in a similar path to the droplet she traced her lovers back, reaching the curve of her lovers’ ass she brought her hands around and cupped it, squeezing softly, feeling the firmness.

Faith gasped as she felt Buffy begin to play with her butt, flashbacks of what Buffy had already done in that area this morning flew through her mind. She felt the heat of arousal begin to build once again. Turning abruptly she caught the petite slayers’ mouth with her own in a forceful kiss.

Spinning them around she pushed the blonde back against the tiles, she heard a small gasp of air leave her lovers’ mouth as she made contact with the cold surface. Leaning herself into the wet body in front of her she pushed her thigh between the blondes’ legs rocking her hips causes a delicious friction between them.

Buffy began to rock her hips against the dark slayer’s thigh coating her with her arousal, the shower doing nothing to hide how turned on she was right now. Attacking her lovers’ mouth she teased and probed with her tongue, duelling with her lover in the sexiest way possible.

Breaking from the kiss for some much needed air the blonde didn’t let up she trailed her mouth along the solid jaw down the strong column of neck, finding the beating of her lovers pulse. She licked and nibbled at her lovers’ pulse while continuing to hump her leg, the heat of the shower adding to their already burning flesh.

Faith almost cried out as she felt Buffy sink her blunt teeth into her jugular, it was an amazing sensation, lights flashed before her eyes her breath caught in her throat, god she had never felt anything so erotic.

Grabbing hold of her lover’s hips she stopped all movement, looking at her lover waiting for her to open her eyes. She was almost thrown back with the force of lust in those hazel eyes when they were finally revealed to her.

“Fuck you’re beautiful.” She whispered hoarsely not recognising her own voice it was laced so thick with the intensity of the situation.

“Show me.” The blonde stated leaning in placing a soft kiss on her lovers’ mouth.

Faith’s body soared as she heard her girlfriends’ response. Kissing the blonde just as gently she moved her mouth down over her chin, over the sensitive skin of her throat nipping lightly causing gasps and moans to escape her lover. She kissed across her collar over to one shoulder then back across to the other, her tongue coming out every now and again to lick at the water that had rested there.

Finding her lovers’ hands with her own she lifted them over their heads placing them on the wall. Letting go with one hand she trailed her fingers down lightly over the delicate skin of the blondes’ arm. Slipping lower she traced the curve of breast using her thumb she skipped over the already hard nipple, travelling lower again her fingers never stopping their exploration, tracing the tiny waist finding the curve of her hips.

Buffy was on overload, it awed her how gentle her dark lover could be. Every cell in her body screamed to be touched in some way, her skin was on fire, trails blazing behind those delicate touches that were so soft they were hardly there. The ball of energy currently building in her heating her from within, it, no, she needed release.

“Fai…Faith…..please.” She gasped, she was desperate she needed to be touched or she was sure she’d explode.

“Patience B.” Faith wiggled her eyebrows.

She loved this, she was hardly touching her lover but she was writhing and squirming all over the place trying to get the right kind of friction required. Her senses were also flowing, everywhere her body came into contact with her lover sent electrical pulses through her. She was sure that if she looked there would be sparks coming from her fingers as they danced along the silken skin.

Not willing to keep her lover waiting too long she began to kiss down to her breasts. She stopped and watched as a few droplets of water seemed to race each other, which would be first, which would be able to pass over the firm bud, grinning she thought ‘none of ‘em’ and darted her tongue out catching the droplets and the nipple into her mouth.

Buffy groaned as she felt her lovers’ mouth surround her breast, feeling her tongue flicking over it Buffy pressed against the wall trying to get as much of herself in that delicious cavern.

Lowering her other hand Faith traced a similar path to the other until she reached her lovers’ hips. Letting go of the blonde’s nipple she began to kiss lower, over firm abs that rippled under her touch and down to the small patch of curls covering her lover’s sex. Settling herself on her knees she raised one of Buffy’s legs to rest over her shoulder.

Buffy pushed her hands out against the sides of the shower in order to steady herself, glancing down she looked deep into the obsidian pools shining back at her with so much love and affection. She watched as Faith lowered herself the rest of the way, they kept eye contact as Faith’s tongue had its first taste.

Faith stared up at Buffy watching the emotions in her lovers’ eyes, as she let her tongue touch her for the first time she saw the normally hazel eyes turn almost gold.

Buffy watched as Faith began to suck on her clit, she loved the way her lover made her feel. Looking down she didn’t think she could be any more turned on, her lover on her knees with her mouth doing oh so good things.

Sucking on the swollen nub Faith flicked with her tongue making Buffy’s hips thrust forward granting her that little bit more room. Dipping her head lower she thrust her tongue inside her girlfriend feeling her silken walls contract around her. She began a steady rhythm, picking up speed and thrusting her tongue harder she could feel her lover was close. Grabbing onto the blondes’ thighs she pumped harder curling her tongue deep inside searching out its target.

“Faith..shit…yes..oh god yes.” Buffy screamed as she came into her girlfriend’s mouth.

Faith smiled as Buffy screamed out coating her with her reward, wiggling her tongue a little more she chuckled as she felt the feeble attempts of the blonde trying to push her away.

Buffy opened her eyes and tried to focus, there were white spots everywhere. Blinking a few times to clear her vision she finally rested upon the brunette currently smiling up at her from her kneeling position.

“Get up here you.” She ordered.

“Yes Ma’am.” The brunette replied almost slipping in the process of getting up so quick.

“Thank you.” Buffy whispered before softly kissing the brunette.

“What for?”

“Well, making me believe I’m beautiful.” Buffy stated shyly.

“Anytime B.” Faith wiggled her eyebrows.

Separating from their embrace they quickly finished showering, deferring to not washing each other or they may never leave the confines of the bathroom.

******

Gathered in the library the SIT’s who had been chosen for today’s mission were talking nervously together. The Scoob’s and the LA Crew huddled over plans of the neighbourhood they were going to, the plan was pretty basic, send out different groups at different times in different directions as decoys, by doing this Buffy was hoping that they would draw enough attention away from the house so they would be able to get James out.

“I still think he should just tell us where they are, I mean he’s still real weak.” Kennedy spoke her mind. She was all for them going in for the book and anything else they could find, she just didn’t see why they had to take James along in his weakened state.

“Ken, look from what James has said there’s more than one hiding place, it’s gonna be quicker and simpler if he comes with us, we’re not likely to leave any behind.” Faith tried to explain to her new friend.

Again Faith was impressed with Kennedy, sure she had a lot to learn but with the right teaching she would become a great Slayer. She had already had more years of training than the other SIT’s and of course with Willow’s help she had become an instant Scooby.

“I know, it’s just I don’t like it.” The younger girl shrugged.

“Alright everyone if we can all just settle down to go over the specifics one more time.” Gathering everyone together for a final briefing Giles began to go over the plans.

First to leave the house were three of the chosen SIT’s, Rhona, Vi and Lennie they were to make their way across town to ‘The Dome’. Rhona had the headset on and relayed anything suspicious back to Xander and Andrew who were heading the communications side of things.

Willow had managed to extend and tweak her protection spell on the house she could sense dark energy in different positions on the outskirts of the property. Next to leave were Buffy and Faith, they were taking the Harley in an attempt to draw out any vehicles the demons may have on call.

“So you ready to go play ‘kiss chase’ with these guys.”

“Eww, Faith there’s no way I’m lettn any demons kiss me.” Buffy stated horrified.

“And that’s good baby, but I had a different kinda game in mind.” Faith wiggled her eyebrows.

“Hmm, and may I ask your version?” The blonde walked seductively over to her girlfriend.

“Well, my version is more like, you kissing me, while they’re chasing us.” The brunette stated swinging her leg over the shining machine.

“Mmmhmm, now that game I like.” She replied joining her lover, swinging her leg over the seat and wrapping her arms around the slender waist she placed a few kisses on the bare shoulder.

“Yep see that’s what I’m talkin’bout.” Faith smiled gunning the throttle, releasing the clutch she roared the Harley along the drive to the opening gates, slowing slightly at the end she checked both ways and pulled out onto the street.

“Shit, we got one already.” Buffy called over her lovers’ shoulder. No sooner had they pulled out of the drive had a blacked out SUV began to follow them.

“Looks like we could be in for a long ride.” The brunette replied while taking the already planned route around town.

*****

Back at the house Giles and Wesley were getting themselves ready, they were taking James in Xander’s Hummer. They were to leave last hopefully the remaining demons would be on foot and would not be able to follow them.

Willow and Kennedy had already left just after the second group of SIT’s, Dawn joined this group as a more experienced member. Each group had a different route across town, check in times had been set and they were to try to keep radio silence.

Xander and Andrew began to plot each group’s position on the map while Angel, Spike and Cordelia kept a check on the reported demon positions. Kriss and Ami sat watching the mixed bunch in front of them. Kriss was nervous he had wanted to go with James, but Giles had made him see that the demons knew of his existence and they would probably be able to sense him, therefore he could not go he would be putting the whole operation at risk.

Ami watching the small group of people huddled around the virtual map projected onto the wall, little flashing lights indicating the current positions of the groups. She had noticed her father become more agitated as the time went on, she could understand his worry, James felt like family to her but she also felt she could trust these people.

Angel and Spike were becoming more restless as time went on, they had both wanted to be part of the mission but as it was daylight and they didn’t have enough knowledge of the area they had to settle for HQ duties.

Cordelia announced that the first group had reached their destination, Rhona had informed them of two demons following them but there had been no interaction with them.

Willow and Kennedy pulled into the Mall parking lot, the car that had been following them still behind them.

“So how you wanna do this?” Kennedy asked the red head.

“We get out make it look like we’re off for a fun day at the shops, then we loose ‘em in the crowd and double back.” Willow stated.

“Good I like the simple plans.” Kennedy smiled.

Driving into a parking space they got out and locked the car, joining hands they casually walked through to the shops.

“Lucky it’s busy.” Willow spoke she was relieved seeing the amount of people around, making it more difficult for the demons to follow them freely.

Checking out the best route Kennedy pulled Willow in the direction of the escalators. Turning to nuzzle at Willow’s neck she surveyed their stalkers.

“Down girl, we’re on a job remember.” The brunette giggled at her lovers’ reaction.

“Well, stop with the nuzzling, how d’you expect me to concentrate with all the nuzzling?”

Kennedy was only half listening to Willow as she babbled on, she scanned the area behind them and noticed that there were two of the demons trying to make their way towards them. Looking around again she spotted the best direction for them to head in to try to shake off their stalkers.

Reaching the end of the escalator she held her girlfriends hand a little more tightly. She walked them through the swinging doors of one of the many shops. Willow trusting Kennedy followed her without question, she kept taking short glances over her shoulder watching for the demons, she had seen them follow them toward the escalator but had lost sight of them as the entered the store.

Kennedy pushed through the crowd of shoppers she had her destination in mind and wasn’t letting anybody get in her way. Moving through the different isles of products the two paid little attention to the displays carefully laid out for the consumers.

Turning another corner they reached the elevator pushing the button they waited nervously. Seconds later the bell rang alerting the elevators arrival, stepping in Kennedy pushed the button for the parking lot.

Watching as the doors slid closed Willow wrapped her arms around her lovers’ waist from behind. Kennedy leaned back into the embrace loving the feel of her girlfriends body flush against her own.

The red head nuzzled into the mass of brunette hair inhaling the unique scent of her younger lover. Feeling the shiver pass through the tense body currently pressed against her she tightened her embrace.

“You ok baby?”

“Yeah, just a little nervous, you don’t think they saw us get in here do you?” The younger girl questioned.

“Well I didn’t see them come in to the store behind us, so I doubt they saw us. Lets just hope we can get to the car ok from here.” The red head tried to assure her girlfriend.

Both stood watching the illuminated numbers change until their number appeared and the doors slid open. Cautiously stepping through the doors they checked around, they couldn’t see anything out of the ordinary so made their way over to the silver SUV parked on another floor.

Willow silently thanked Xander and Cordelia for bringing Buffy’s car here earlier today, it had been Xander’s suggestion that they swap cars in case they couldn’t shake off their demons. Climbing in they drove off to meet the others at James’ apartment.

Faith pulled the Harley over and switched off the engine, she allowed Buffy to step off the bike before setting it on it’s kick stand and swinging her leg elegantly over the shining machine. Grabbing Buffy’s hand they made their way to the nearest alley.

Locating the fire escape Buffy let go of Faith’s hand turned and jumped flipping over backwards she grabbed the fire escape ladder and held on until her feet touched the floor.

“Hmm, nice move Slayer.” Faith looked on appreciatively at her lovers’ agile form.

As she landed Buffy let go of the cold steel and bowed slightly at her girlfriend, smiling she raised her hand and motioned for the brunette to join her.

Faith not being one to turn down her lover walked over to the blonde ensuring that her hips swayed that little bit more than usual.

Buffy watched her lover as she moved towards her with an almost feline grace, alluring shadows making the already striking features all the more amazing. Feeling her body start to react to the flirtatious movements Buffy chided herself, it was time to concentrate on the plan at hand they could take care of other things later.

Faith smirked at Buffy’s reaction, she could see the desire and lust pass across her girlfriends’ features, then she saw the Slayer take control and Buffy was ready for action. She loved the way that Buffy looked when she allowed the Slayer in her to take control, pure strength, purely primal, it was something that the Slayer in her recognised and soared to be granted such freedom.

By the time they were only inches apart both of the Slayers’ were in control, the mission began now, over was the time for light kisses and the accidental brush of hand across breast.

They reached the roof of the building in what seemed like seconds making their way over to the edge they surveyed the buildings surrounding them. Moving with stealth they began to traverse the rooftops, running across the flat roofs jumping with ease across the alleyways below.

Switching direction at the designated building they made their way down another fire escape to the ground below, both panting heavily after the excursion.

“Wow, man I’m juiced.” Faith exclaimed, loving the feel of the adrenaline pumping through her veins.

“Gotta say I did enjoy that.” Buffy smiled a little in agreement, it had been a while since they had had to use that much energy and power, they had to of covered at least fifteen different buildings in the hope of loosing their own demon stalkers.

Walking to the end of the alley they checked the area, they were relieved to see that they were in the clear. In silent agreement they made their way across the street and into one of the apartment buildings.

Quickly they located James’ apartment, using the hidden key they entered with caution, their senses were on full alert for anything. The sun cast an eerie glow through the closed curtains but the Slayers’ eyes were wide their heightened sight allowing them vision to the darkest of corners.

Happy that the apartment was secure Faith contacted Giles and Wesley confirming everything was ok, while Buffy went to greet Willow and Kennedy down in the lobby.

Giles and Wesley pulled up in the alley behind the apartment building and waited for a moment before stepping out. Giles rushed around the car to help Wesley with James, Willows’ spells had done wonders but he was still weak with malnutrition.

Moving as quickly as possible they entered the building to find Kennedy and Faith waiting for them. After hurried greetings Faith lifted James from between the two men and carried him toward the apartment with Giles, Wesley and Kennedy following behind staying alert for anything that may cause a problem.

Back at the house Xander had contacted the two other groups to tell them to start making their way back. Neither group had had any problems with the demons stalking them but were still being cautious.

Spike and Angel had begun to spar in the corner of the library in the vain hope of relieving some tension. Cordelia was currently in the kitchen preparing yet more refreshments for everyone. Kriss had managed to calm a little and was currently trying to research. Xander and Andrew were recording details of the operation in the computer.

Once again Ami sat watching the group, each tried to hide the emotion of the situation but they didn’t realise she could see through it. She had been working on the development of her gift, not only was she able to see through mystical barriers but she was learning to see through many of the different human faces. She was fascinated by the way humans would try to hide their true feelings from one another.

She had already worked out what Cordelia felt about Angel, and what he thought of her. Reading Angel had been more difficult as Vampires have no true reflection therefore the energy surrounding them is harder to read, it’s as if it’s a jumbled up puzzle of sorts.

But as Angel had a soul it seemed to allow some sort of organisation, she had been watching them as the different groups called in and confirmed their positions. She noticed that he seemed to tense each time the two Slayers’ had contacted them. She suspected some kind of history there, but wasn’t sure if it contained Buffy or Faith or even both of them.

Observing the two vampires in the throws of sparring she felt the need to join them, even though her demon race was normally placid they were all well trained fighters. Her mentor had taught her well in many different fighting skills, but he had also taught her that fighting was not the first option and to use her skills for defence not for attack.

Rising to her feet she walked over to where the vampires were currently holding each other by the arms as if in stalemate.

“So this a private party or can anyone join in?” She asked quirking an eyebrow at their position.

“Ah, no, not private luv, ‘nt that right Peaches.” Spike stuttered trying to dislodge himself from his Grand-sire.

“Would you please stop calling me Peaches.” Angel growled at the peroxide vampire.

“Ladies, ladies, I was only asking if I could spar with one of you for a bit, but I see I’ve interrupted something meaningful between you.” Ami smirked at the look on both vampires’ faces.

Both Angel and Spike jumped apart scowling at each other, their minds taking them to visual places neither of them wanted to go. With a horrified look on his face Angel turned to make his excuses to Ami.

“You go ahead and beat him to a pulp, I’m gonna go help Cordy.”

Chuckling slightly at the retreating form Ami turned her attention back to the remaining vampire.

“So we gonna spar or just stand here all day.”

“Ready when you are luv.”

Before he had even had time to process any other thought Spike found himself on his back with strong thighs squeezing his chest.

“I don’t think so.” Ami chuckled smugly.

She loved the fact that her size normally meant her opponents usually underestimated her. Standing around five three her curvaceous form was perfect camouflage for the strength that rippled just beneath the surface.

Spike was beyond shocked as he looked up into piercing eyes they were dark almost giving the illusion they were made from black pearls, her long dark hair falling around her face and shoulders. He was having trouble processing what had happened, everything was a blur.

“How’d you do that?” He asked stunned.

“The right training you can do anything.” Ami stated simply.

Spike smiled and nodded hoping in some way that she would teach him some of her moves, she was quick he would have to see how quick she was against the Slayers, he was sure that she could give both a run for their money.

“So, ah, I like the position an’ all but you think you could let me up?” Spike questioned even though he had no complaints about this intriguing woman sat astride him.

Blushing a little as their intimate position was revealed to her Ami stood quickly and offered her hand to Spike. Taking the offered hand he stood brushing himself down, watching for any sudden moves from his opponent.

“Come on I’ll take it easy on you this time.” Ami challenged.

Spike quirked an eyebrow but was grateful that he didn’t have to answer as he saw a foot passing just past his face. Dropping into his fighting stance they began to circle each other, Spikes’ pride currently screaming at him for revenge on this small opponent.

Angel had made his way through the house to the kitchen where he stood against the doorframe silently watching Cordelia move around. He was amazed at how graceful she was. He was reminded of a ballet dancer with grace and elegance pouring from them as the made their purposeful steps across a stage.

Noticing something out of the corner of her eye, Cordelia turned abruptly and shrieked as she focused on the dark figure standing in the doorway.

“Shit, would you not do that ‘Mr Creeps A lot’, you scared the living outta me then, I swear I’m gonna get you a bell and tie it ‘round your neck so ya can’t keep creeping up on people.” Cordelia spoke in a hurried tone adrenaline taking over her responses.

“Hey, sorry ok I didn’t mean to scare you.” Angel tried to calm her down as he closed the distance between them.

“Yeah, well ya did.” Cordelia tried to stay angry with the vampire but couldn’t, as soon as she looked into his eyes her anger seemed to dissipate.

“Sorry, again, really Cordy I didn’t mean to scare you I was just ah.” Angel stopped himself from continuing with his confession. What was he supposed to say, oh I was just stalking you, exactly.

“Angel, Cordy get in her quick, we’ve got a problem.” Xanders’ voice could be heard yelling for them.

Relieved for the intervention they both looked in the direction of the door, both unaware at how this was yet another missed opportunity for them to confess their feelings for each other.

Walking back into the library Cordelia noticed that Ami was wiping herself down with a towel while Spike was sat trying to catch un needed breath. Quirking an eyebrow in Ami’s direction, she silently asked for an explanation.

“We were sparring, I think he’s outta practise.” Ami stated trying to save the fallen vampire some of his dignity.

“Uh huh.” The ex cheerleader murmured not quite getting it, she was sure Spike was back at full strength he had been in quite a few fights for Angel and the rest of them. She shrugged off the feeling and made her way over to Xander and Andrew to find out exactly what had happened this time, nothing ever went smoothly.

They had been going through the apartment with ease, James was indicating the different hiding places and the Slayers and Witch were running around retrieving the books. Giles and Wesley were boxing them and with Kennedy’s help they were being moved to the Hummer.

James had just pointed Faith in the direction of the crawl space in the roof it wasn’t really an attic space more like a suspended ceiling. This was where he had hidden the Book of Zirex, carefully climbing into the limited space she began to navigate her way through the maze of cables and support struts.

Reaching the book she placed it in the front of her jacket and began to make her way back over to the opening. She stopped her movements when she heard deep muffled voices.

“Shit.” She whispered realising that the demons had managed to track them down.

She reached for her headset and called in to Xander trying to tell him what was going on but trying to stay as quiet as possible. She pushed the book further into her jacket and did the zipper all the way up, whatever happened she had to make sure the book got into the right hands.

Moving as quietly as she could she made her way back to the entrance of the crawl space, she looked through and could see Willow already chanting something. She couldn’t see where the demons were so she listened for the direction of the voices.

Buffy had been in the kitchen when she felt them, she came rushing out just as the demons were entering through the door. She quickly checked around, she could only see Willow and James, she hoped that Giles, Wesley and Kennedy were safe with the Hummer they had nearly all of the books.

Panic rose in her a little when she noticed that Faith wasn’t around, she expanded her senses and calmed a little when she felt that she was near, she couldn’t pinpoint exactly where but she was near and that’s all that mattered for now.

“Where is it?” Klee yelled at the petite blonde.

“Where’s what? And who the hell do you think you are waltzing in to someone’s apartment shouting at said someone?” Buffy was hoping her delay tactic of bantering with her enemy would buy her enough time to come up with a way of getting them all out safe.

“Don’t play games with me little girl, you know exactly what I mean, now hand it over.” Klee was beginning to lose his patience, too long had he waited for this opportunity, the book was close he could almost smell it.

Checking behind the demon that she thought to have terrible breath Buffy noted four more demons. She was relieved when she saw one of the demons pulled out of view behind the open door, she realised that Kennedy must have made her way back without any problems. That at least meant the rear of the building was safe.

Using the distraction to her advantage Buffy kicked out at ‘bad breath’ demon catching him in the ribs and sending him back into one of the other demons. Soon an all out brawl was in progress.

Faith jumped through the opening at the first sound of a fight, she quickly noted that Buffy and Kennedy had the demons under control, well of sorts anyway. She ran to Willow grabbing her she pulled the book from under her jacket and gave it to the red head.

“Make it invisible or somethin’” The dark slayer advised hastily.

Willow looked stunned for a moment then began to chant something in a language Faith didn’t even want to comprehend and the book began to fade from view.

“Right, tell Buffy to get James outta here, I’ll keep these bastards occupied.” Faith ordered.

Faith ran into the fray landing a flying kick to the head of one of the demons trying to sneak up on her girlfriend.

“Hey, thanks, what took you so long?” Buffy smirked while ducking a high swing from the demon she was currently fighting.

Willow followed Faith into the room going directly to James she began to help him from his seated position. She had manoeuvred him most of the way when one of the supposedly unconscious demons leapt to his feet stopping their escape.

“Ah Buffy a little help here.” Willow called pseudo calmly.

On hearing her friend plea Buffy kicked her opponent in the direction of the dark Slayer who was open. She turned and began to lay into the demon currently threatening to hurt her friend.

As soon as Buffy had the demon out of the way Willow and James began to move again. Buffy stayed close to Willow as she helped James out fighting off any advance the demons made on them. James faltered again and Willow could hardly support him on her own, the blonde noticed her friend struggling and although she wanted to continue with the fight at hand she knew that she had to get James to safety.

“Faith, Kennedy lets get outta here.” The blonde called back as she lifted the boy and began to run toward the exit at the rear.

Willow followed close behind hoping that her lover would not be far behind.

Wesley heard the doors being flung open and looked up to see Buffy carrying James and Willow running closely behind. Quickly putting the remaining boxes into the Hummer he ran to open the door for them.

“What happened? What’s going on? Where’s Faith and Kennedy?” Wesley questioned.

“Demons, fighting, and hopefully right behind us.” Buffy supplied the watcher with the barest of answers.

Turning her attention back to the apartment building she was fighting not to go back in, her lover was in there, she had to go help. But she knew it would be risky leaving everyone out here without a fighter.

Willow was in much the same position as Buffy she kept her eyes focused on the door, waiting anxiously for any sign of her girlfriend. Hearing the door clatter open both red and blonde seemed to stand a little taller, watching as a wave of brunette hair flowed to reveal its owner.

Buffy ran forward as she noticed Kennedy begin to back away from the building.

“Where is she? Where’s Faith?” Buffy asked worried.

“She’s still in there, I lost sight of her.” Kennedy replied hating herself for losing sight of her friend.

“Will, you lot get outta here, I’m going back in.”

“Buffy wait, she’ll be ok, just give her a minute or two you’ll see.” The Witch tried to placate her friend.

“Sorry Will, no waiting allowed, I’m going back in, now get out of here.” Buffy stated using her stubborn streak to good effect.

“Ok, but be careful.” Willow smiled and hugged her friend making her way back to the Hummer she told the others the news.

Buffy made her way to the door entering quietly she listened out for any signs of fighting. It was eerily quiet she couldn’t hear anything, beginning to worry she moved toward James’ apartment but stopped in her tracks when she noticed a trail of blood moving away from his door and towards the front of the building.

Fearing the worst Buffy began to follow the trail moving quicker with each step, tears beginning to fall from her eyes. Running out of the main doors she saw the demons huddle something into the back of the same SUV that had followed them earlier.

From the look of the form they were carrying Buffy knew that it was Faith, dropping to her knees as the SUV pulled away at speed she looked up at the sky.

“FAITH!!”

That was the cry that Willow and the rest of them heard from over the rooftops.

****
TBC
****

So please remember to spend a little time offering this poor unloved soul something to hang on to.....