The Stray

PART 14

Spike’s crystal blue eyes brightened at the comment – though it was still really directed at Xander. He took his time and casually sat up straight to his full height, his furred ears just brushing the roof of the cabin of Xander’s CUV.

The expression was almost a grin before the act of putting his head on the armrest between the two humans, garnering a familiar scratch and ruffle between the ears from Xander, was confirmation for Willow that there was something very different about the magnificent animal.

As soon as Spike settled back, Xander headed for home on the rather overcast Saturday afternoon, not worrying about the scenic route, there would be time enough for that. The polite chat soon became a more relaxed exchange. Xander’s project was going well, yes he was enjoying life, no he didn’t have a partner (the witch apparently well informed regards the orientation of the former Scoobie).

Willow was happy with her lot as most powerful individual witch on the planet but it brought with it constant demands of the covens worldwide that did prove a little tedious at times. Particularly irksome were the long periods of time away from the UK and her now partner of four years, Riana, a fellow ex-pat Californian who had also found her way to the Oxfordshire coven. Yes, she kept touch with Giles – who had revived his status as tutor of aspiring witches, including a few watchers and slayers, though his relationship with the new Watchers’ Council was still strained at times. Buffy had a new squeeze (which brought Spike some satisfaction – he never did really like the idea of her being with the ageless Casanova ‘The Immortal’) and had stayed in Italy, while Dawn had moved back to LA to continue her language studies at a Masters level and revitalize the UCLA based wiccan groups. Andrew was alive and well, reveling in his role as History master for initiate Slayers at the Watchers’ Academy.

They were soon in front of Xander’s modest home, Willow not failing to notice the carefully tended garden and lawn despite the chill in the air as she was helped down from the truck and her luggage was retrieved. Spike alighted with ease and padded quietly beside Xander’s side then sat patiently while the door was unlocked and the two humans entered.

The warm inside was welcoming and Willow was led to her room before being given ‘the tour’. This included the lit back yard - thankfully Xander had let the dog out to ‘do his thing’ prior to Willow and he stepping out onto the wide patio so lovingly constructed the summer prior. Finally a cup of tea was offered and Willow adjourned to do some preliminary unpacking.

Xander busied himself putting out ‘gourmet’ chocolate chip cookies, plus a small platter of fruit and nuts – not sure to what level of vegetarianism Willow currently practiced. He fussed about what type of tea, ultimately letting a rather bemused Spike choose, the classic Twinings collection purpose purchased failing to hold any clues. “Orange Pekoe? English Breakfast… that can’t be right… Geez Spike, you’re English – what would *you* choose!?”

Xander held the polished wooden box down so Spike could see, waited while Green Tea with Jasmine was selected and almost threw the box in the air as Willow’s giggle from the door was registered.

“Um er… just… ah forget it… is this OK?”

Willow gave Xander a wide smile, “Perfect, nothing less than I would have expected.” She gave Spike a conspiratorial wink as the teabags were added to two cups and Spike’s bowl. Milk and sugar were added to the bowl and Xander’s cup and two chocolate chip cookies placed beside the bowl for Spike, before all three enjoyed their mid afternoon snack.

Willow kept looking down at Spike and shaking her head in wonder, “I still can’t believe… You know, on some level… it’s just so… He’s beautiful, and seems so happy… Xan have you considered… you know… all the possibilities? What if nothing can be done?”

“Then he lives on as my friend and pampered canine companion, with all the advantages his current state entails – like the sledding and… fatherhood…”

“Fatherhood? What?! Puppies”

“Umm… yeah, Spike’s going to be a father – soon. He wanted it Wills. Regardless you know…”

Spike looked up lovingly at Xander for a moment whilst licking away the remnants of both milky tea and crumbs of cookies crunched sideways.

Willow caught the adoring look and buried her next question in another sip of her tea. “You look fit Xan, all this rugged outdoors work I guess.”

“All Spike’s forced speed training on our morning runs more like it. If I knew he would turn out to be the one breed built for long distance runs more than once a day I would have thought twice about rescuing him! Thank goodness for Gracie and her daily sled team workouts. He’s really good at it – a natural leader of the pack, so Gracie tells me.”

Willow giggled a little and leaned down to stroke Spike’s soft coat for the first time. “He’s so soft… I’m sure the puppies will be gorgeous too.”

“Should be, they’re out of Chloe, her first litter. She is Gracie’s prize female, can’t get much better than that, and Spike and she get on really well.”

There was a pause in the conversation and the three finished their tea in comfortable silence, broken only by Willow’s yawn. “Sorry Xan, just a bit jet lagged after the trip. Think I might check my Emails if you don’t mind, then shower and bed… Tomorrow morning seems a better place to start with the reason I am really here. You both don’t mind do you?”

Her answer came with a lick from Spike and Xander quickly clearing away the afternoon tea. There would be time for more discussion later, and Willow’s pallid skin and tired eyes spoke of a weariness that screamed extreme fatigue and not just from the trip. Xander quietly hoped that her stay of all but nine days might allow her some rest as well as working on Spike’s ‘problem’.

Spike headed outside as soon as Willow left the room. The last of the afternoon sun was falling on his blankets outside and he really didn’t want to think for a while. Xander knew the behaviour and chose to fuss about towels for his female guest and check her room one more time. Dog and owner would talk later.

Spike watched as two wrens chirped around in the branches of the lemon tree, listened as a lone crow made itself known some streets away, and smiled at the sibling squabble going on next door over who had and had not been on the swing more times than the other. The clouds were beginning to clear, cirrus streaking across the sky rather than the rain laden cumulous of previous days. He idly watched an ant attempt the dangerous climb over the third nail on his large paw, finally licking it off and swallowing the hapless adventurer.

He thought about Chloe. She was still training with the team but it was a lighter run for her as her belly increased in size, and Gracie had indicated that it would only be a week or two before she would need a far more gentle exercise regime in anticipation on her brood. He was to be a father, but suppressed any thoughts of his own childhood or the fathers of other humans he had seen through the years. He had decided as soon as their pairing was confirmed, it would be instinct and love that would rule his part in the pups’ lives.

It was an easy call really there was nothing to be but husky around Chloe and Gracie, but like any other expectant canine dad, there were still occasional twinges of doubt, particularly if the near impossible were to happen and he was miraculously returned to human/vampire form.

Eventually Xander came outside as the sun slid away, leaving only pink streaks and the first few stars blinking their welcome to the oncoming night. The silence between the two was comfortable, permeated only by the occasional sound of families beginning their evening meal and a car or two returning home. Xander sat and leaned back on the wall of the house letting his hand slide into his friend’s fur to begin a gentle, familiar tug and stroke, finding a knot here and there only to continue the caress until the tangle was gone. Both lost track of time as they contemplated their lot in life and the possible futures the witch’s arrival had made all too real.

Spike was nearly asleep when the growl of Xander’s stomach roused them both. “C’mon buddy, think my stomach has said it for both of us… I figure Willow will be incommunicado until morning, let’s get some food. Simple steak and vege sound alright to you?”

Dinner was prepared swiftly and eaten in front of the television. Neither was in the mood for their nightly ‘talk’ but the company was comfortable and the movie on Channel four forgettable so Spike’s subtle signal to go to bed was followed with ease.

Willow heard the front door open, the “Paw’s Spike!!! Geez… at least you could*try* to wipe them off a bit before you come onto the carpet!” and caught herself giggling into her pillow a) for the new house proud, grown up Xander, and b) the feigned hurt innocent look she imagined Spike might give in his new form.

She rose surprisingly unaffected by the jetlag that had permeated everything the previous afternoon. Hearing the shower in Xander’s ensuite starting, she braided her hair, slipped on a comfortable pair of sweat pants and white shirt then made her way to join her two friends in time for breakfast.

She heard the hairdryer going as she wandered into the kitchen now flooded with sunlight and idly calculated that she had slept for over fourteen hours. She really had been tired. She unraveled the plastic covering the Sunday paper and began flicking through the Calgary Herald.

The layout was familiar enough though articles on Canadian politics and some of the local concerns were foreign and caught her attention. Still engrossed in a story about the concerns of the organizers of the regular Calgary Stampede and the rising cost of running the event, she just about leapt out of her skin as a muzzle poked her in the backside.

She let out a yelp of protest and turned to see a very fluffy, newly dried Spike and a grinning Xander. “Yeah he does that.”

“I’d say bad dog but it really sounds a bit silly.”

“Oh I think Spike would be happy with that – Mr Big Bad though and through aren’t you…” He wandered over ruffled Spike’s ears and leaned over Willow to glance at the article she was reading. “Anything of interest?”

“Not really, but it’s always fun to see what’s up locally I guess, gives me a bit of a feel of the place my old friend is living in.” She smiled up at Xander then turned to give and receive a warm hug. Spike left them to it, choosing to ‘use the facilities’ outside instead.

Though Willow was keen to have a ‘chat’ to Spike, Xander had other ideas given the beautiful sunny Sunday Calgary had ‘put on for her. Spike knew the signs and as soon as his harness and lead was produced he moved to the front door and sat patiently. They drove past the building site, Xander proudly pointing out the three near complete structures and the last that was on the way. They then headed past the University and on to the city centre and the Calgary Tower.

As they parked the car, Willow was surprised to see Xander pull out a telescopic cane from the glove box, remove his eye patch and put on some dark glasses. Willow’s curious look was answered with a wink and, “Cane was a joke from the guys at work last Christmas, harness is Spike’s idea – gets us into places for a discount.”

He wasn’t kidding. Xander stood with his cane in hand and Spike sat quietly as Willow bought tickets for them to go up the Calgary Tower. There wasn’t even a question from the issuer who immediately charged them for one adult and one concession. Willow smiled sweetly as she sorted through the Canadian notes and coins Xander had given her for the purpose, quipping “Sorry, I’m used to British money. It’s OK for his dog, otherwise…?”

The cashier simply shrugged, looked at the short lead and harness, and said, “Not really, but in this case, eyyy, we make exceptions… Unusual for it to be a husky…”

Willow smiled again, took the change and put her hand on Xander’s arm, “Thank you. It means a lot.”

It wasn’t Xander’s first time up the tower but it certainly was Spike’s. The lift was swift and the view breathtaking. Fortunately there was a guide with a tour group explaining all the sights from the top so Xander did not have to ‘blow his cover’. Spike was tall enough to see through the windows and pleased when Xander squatted down to give him a fond petting and see the view from the dog’s height.

Willow noted the soft touches and smiled ruefully at Xander as he stood back up. She proceeded to describe some of the scenes, knowing full well Xander could see but still kept up the ruse until they were back at the car, Spike walking perfectly calmly occasionally touching his ‘blind’ companion’s legs.

There was coffee and a light snack taken at one of the many cafés somewhere in the maze of arcades that ran through the city centre and again Spike lay down by Xander’s chair, occasionally accepting another pat or a tidbit of sweet Danish.

Willow and Xander kept up a light banter as they returned home just after one in the afternoon. Spike had run in the morning but really felt he needed to let loose again as the topic of conversation turned to the questioning of Spike via computer. Still might as well get it over with.

Willow watched with interest as writing equipment was fitted. “OK Wills, want me to… you know… go?”

“Of course not! This is about you too…”

Xander sat beside Spike as Willow began, her notepad in hand. They would save the file but she wanted more than just the words. Spike had a magical signature as did the connection between dog and owner something she felt immediately when in their company. It had implications, though of what she was unsure and intended to note any changes as the questioning proceeded.

“Spike, I want to start more from way back when you arrived in LA… Do you mind? I mean Fred filled me in a little on the whole ghost to corporeal thing – well as much as they knew… And then of course there was the arms and Andrew was in on that – even though I was…”

Spike typed “Just bloody get on with it, doggy years remember. I’ll expire ‘fore you get to the point.”

And so they began three hours of question and answer covering everything Spike could remember of his time in LA. Along with the vampire/dog’s answers came distress, Xander found himself on the floor beside Spike lending quiet support, particularly as the death of Fred and the events that followed were detailed.

Spike’s typing faltered and came to a stop as the desperation of the last few hours before the final Black Thorn confrontation hit him as though the event had occurred days not months before. He whimpered, and pawed at the writing tool on his right leg, finally holding it out and growled as he buried his head in his Xander shaped friend’s lap and waited for the item to be removed.

“Think it’s time for a break for all of us Wills… Coffee?”

Willow stood and stretched, rubbing the small of her back then closing the note book. “Tea if you don’t mind Xan…”

“Tea it is.” Xander had removed the writing aids and moved to open the back door for Spike, “Come back when you’re ready OK?”

Spike gave Xander a lick on the hand, Xander knowing full well the dog would jump the fence and take the back way to Gracie’s. Xander had given up on trying to keep him in, the musher and Xander had agreed that they would ring each other whenever the dog visited or arrived home safely.

A rather pale Willow was pouring over her notes as Xander came back into the kitchen.

“I didn’t mean to push him so hard Xan. But we have to get as much as we can before we can even start to work out what happened, you know what magicks exactly are involved. There is so much pain there too… thanks for staying with us. It helped. Where’s he…” Willow worried, the magic had changed around Spike as soon as he made for the door.

“Gone for a run to see the mother of his soon to be children. Gracie will give me a call when he gets there.” And she did. Just a few minutes after they had finished their afternoon tea the phone rang.

Willow caught the end of the conversation. “… that would be great thanks. Yeah well we’ve got a visitor in the house. Figure he needs to let off a bit of steam… An hour? OK.”

Xander returned to his guest. “It’s all OK, Gracie’s going to take Chloe and Spike for a run. It’ll give him a chance to let off steam. You want to go for a walk too? Just a nip around the block… show you the park, that sort of thing.”

“Sounds nice… I’ll just get my sweater and walking shoes.” She stood and gave Xander an easy hug, mumbling into his chest, “Mmmm missed your hugs… and walks, walks are good.”
…………………….

Part 15

Spike’s run to Gracie’s was a welcome relief. He ran hard enough to forget the human/vampire part of himself again but easily enough that he could still enjoy the familiar sights and smells.

By the time he arrived at the old style, white wooden house and slowed to walk around the back to the kennels he was centered again, pure dog and ready to see his pregnant Chloe. Her excitement at his arrival was obvious and they touched noses through the wire of the high gate securing the back yard. Spike noted the burgeoning belly and her scent which reinforced that she was indeed carrying his children.

Gracie was quickly on the scene harnesses her rollerblades in hand. There would be just the two of them pulling today, she would run the whole team minus Chloe, the following day. Spike let Gracie dictate the pace, loping along easily and loving when they occasionally bumped together. At a large park they stopped were unhooked and spent a little time sniffing around then playing ‘fetch’ with a stick Gracie had found.

The game was competitive, Chloe in a particularly playful mood, something which Spike found contagious. Soon they were both sprinting the short distance to grab the stick then run from their partner to ensure it was not stolen before one or other was able to drop it at Gracie’s feet and flop down in anticipation of another round. After the fourth throw a father with two small children came over to chat to Gracie and introduce his twin four year old girls to the “lovely big dogs”. The respite was appreciated, particularly by Chloe, and the two huskies sat by Gracie accepting tentative pats from the wide eyed, pigtailed little girls.

Spike was careful to put his head down and give his most innocent look to the second ‘patter’ squarely in the eyes, blue meeting blue. She gave another stroke over his ears causing them to twitch automatically and giggled with delight as she allowed him to lick her hand gently. “Daddy this one likes me best… can we have a dog like this one?”

What followed was a series of pleas from both girls, all but drowning out the more serious conversation occurring between Gracie and their father, Pete, regards due date of pups (only two weeks away) care and maintenance, and cost of owning such a dog. He seemed very keen and apparently had been part of the ‘Milk Run’ as a teenager so was familiar with the sledding culture and the need for the breed to run.

Spike felt a pang of anticipated loss as he realized that his children would realistically be sold to other families, though Gracie had promised to keep at least one of the females of the litter, and another would go to Xander if he wanted it. But this Pete seemed kind and the pup would certainly be treated as a loved pet if the girls had anything to do with it. Spike buried his worry, there would be plenty of time for that, today was for forgetting.

Spike again found that their run home allowed him to simply relish his role as canine. Chloe licked him after they had both been given a drink on their return to Gracie’s home, and he was allowed some quiet time with her. Gracie had learned in the past weeks that Spike’s presence was a calming influence on Chloe who was inclined to be overexcited after a run. He always pawed at her back door when he was ready to go and politely waited to be released.

On the way home, Spike again turned his attention to remembering that Willow was due to quiz him about the final night… He tried to put the thought away by taking more notice of the birds, very deliberately marking the lamp post at the end of his street and clearing the side fence without even touching his furry hind legs on the wood. And yet the pang of grief and anguish still hijacked his mind… Wooden weapons, pouring rain, demons, dragons, dusting and death, Illyria and Holden Manners.

Willow and Xander were sitting on the back porch when he returned. Panting a little he sat in front of Xander to receive a pat and wait while Xander reported his safe homecoming to Gracie on his mobile. He then leapt up easily, entered the back of the house and came back two beers in mouth followed by another and his bowl. Willow giggled a little as Xander opened the three then poured one into Spike’s bowl.

“OK buddy, a little lubrication probably will help.”

Spike drank slowly, he had learned by bitter experience that canine stomach processes were nowhere near as adapted to burping as human ones, the cool amber fluid still tasted wonderful however.

The chat was light but ultimately they all had to face the session that was perhaps the most important conversation of Willow’s visit. Spike initiated their move to the study by taking his bowl inside and waiting with the back door propped open.

“I think we’re being summoned Xan.”

“He was always the one to face his fears I guess…” Xander said as he stood and pulled Willow easily to her feet.

“Always” she concurred and they followed the dog inside. “By the way… Do you have a bike?”

“Only the stationary kind why?”

“Oh I just figured I might take him for a run tomorrow when you’re at work, or at least go with him to Gracie’s. It would nice to meet her.”

“I’ll see what I can do, I’m pretty sure Jerry’s wife has one that you could borrow, so long as you don’t mind if it doesn’t have ribbons coming out of the handles.” Willow giggled and remembered her bright pink bike with the orange ‘tassles’ she was so proud of way back when they were friends in primary school.

“Oh I think I’ll manage.”

By the time they entered the front room Spike had fitted one of the writing tools and hearing the conversation, typed one pawed, “No more sugary memory lanes you two or I’ll have to bite someone!”

Willow sigh and picked up her note pad as Xander bent to fit the other paw tool. “If only things were as innocent and simple now…”

The next hour was spent with Spike typing almost automaton like. It was his only defense.

He described his role in the Black Thorn downfall; their meeting in the pouring rain in the alleyway; Charles Gunn mortally wounded but still standing; Wesley’s reported death and the final charge of the demon hoards with Angel claiming the dragon was his for the kill. He paused when Willow quietly encouraged, “Go on.”

“Charlie went down fighting, back to the wall, took out four before his throat was torn out. Illyria pounded anything who came for her to a pulp. Angel slew the dragon alright but stupid git didn’t figure on the fire breather letting him have it with a blast that blinded him as it expired, could defend my Sire then… just could get to him in time… bastards had him then, pinned him like a bug in a collection then…” He was beyond feeling the quiet stroking Xander had begun, “Then they ripped his head off, felt him go, Ghod Xan! I felt my Sire dust! There was just the two of us, Illyria and me and the rain. Figured I was all done then the lot of ‘em just melted away, literally.

“Then there was that bastard Manners, with all whitty quips an’ negotiations. Next minute I know there’s a big blast and she saying she wants me as ‘er pet and rule her own domain then a big flash of light, leavin’ me to pull Charlie to where he’d be found and...” Spike paused again, “’Cause it was just me like this and nothin’…”

Willow looked up and interjected at that point, “She wanted to rule her domain… That’s sure to be it. They’ve trapped her, Xan! That’s what they will have done, they’ve trapped her somewhere for their own use! The key to getting Spike out is the Deeper Well. The Guardian of the Well will know, even if she is not on this plane… the Battle Brand will know!”

“No such luck love, Drogan was killed by Angelus as part of his ‘test’ to infiltrate the inner circle of the Thorn.”

“Another was appointed the instant he passed.”

Spike looked up at her wide eyed, “Who?”

“Conner”

Spike looked up amazed for a moment, “*The* Conner… you mean *the* Angel’s and Darla’s Conner?? My half brother by vampire birth Conner”

“It was his status and his wish when offered. He came to us after he felt Angel pass… He was drawn to us. His role was always to restore balance and his essence so strong it was always to be.”

It was Spike’s turn to be shocked and looked at Willow with a mixture of incredulity and hurt, “Poor bastard. Was s’posed to be a normal life, least that what old Sire said… ‘e c’n tell no lies now, you know, hell uv a job.”

“Hey Spike… it’s OK… really it is. He just turned up at the Well, said it was his destiny and… took it on… Spike? Look at me. What do you know of the Well?”

“Only that there’s a non refundable on the Old Ones leaving it, so him too. And that the Battle Brand can only speak the truth.”

Willow sighed a little then added, “And that any skullduggery on the part of the Senior Partners, using Illyria as a weapon, or shift her inter-dimensionally will be impossible to do without the Brand’s knowledge. Besides he is on the side of the Powers. Spike this is *great*.”

She turned to Xander, “If we can get onside with the Battle Brand *and* use the global network there is a chance… just a small chance Spike can be restored! Leave it with me for the night… I have to do some research.”

Spike began to take off his implements again and gave Willow a rather resigned, sad look as he held up the second paw for a little assistance. Her heart melted once again. “Oh Spike! If I can, Spike, I will – but this might take time and Illyria’s disappearance most definitely seems to be a key factor in this equation. She made a fools deal. The balance has been deliberately tipped – Holland may have been the messenger, but it’s got to be The Wolf, the Ram and the Hart who are playing games. Mother Earth looks after her own as you are now, and there is the Powers and we will need all the wiccan groups, indeed all gatherings who can to tackle this.”

Spike nuzzled her hand then went outside into the still of the evening to try to regain his composure, his acceptance of his lot as it was. He had no doubt Willow would try, but at what cost? He chose not to think on it any longer, instead focused on the sounds coming from the kitchen as Xander made dinner, and the familiar smells around him. He stared up at the patches of clear sky and the rising moon peeping in and out of clouds that had permeated the heavens since his run that afternoon. He relieved himself once more, scratched a little to cover the patch, growled at a rather cheeky squirrel that chattered her annoyance at his presence, then padded back inside.

Willow worked late into the night Emailing and speaking to as many of her contacts as she could safely do. Conversations and messages were deliberately obscure even when placed through the encoding sequence as she did not want to alert any hostile parties looking on of her real intent.

Xander and Spike went for their morning run, Willow slept on, though did manage to rise for a communal breakfast this time. Xander left for work, Willow showered and Spike did as he had done for over a year human time – he did his morning ablutions then lay in the expanding triangle of sun near the corner of the house.

Today he would relate his story of his doggy existence up to today. Xander was now familiar enough with that to warrant Spike relating the same without his ‘owner’s’ presence. Spike really didn’t feel like running over this part, it was full of the bad and the good of his existing status, but Spike’s memory and intelligence was not so subsumed by his husky form and instincts that he could leave it there. His gut would not let him. He had children to consider, and if the witch had answers, or even some fandangle pop culture theories that would shed light on the status and fate of his offspring, regardless of the outcome of her musings, then he felt compelled to challenge and find out all options.

The experience of his run for freedom was related simply and with little upset midmorning, interrupted only by Xander dropping in home with Jerry’s wife’s bicycle and the amusement that ensued as Willow’s small stature caused several mishaps before the bike was adjusted to suit.

After a light lunch, all departed. Spike and Willow (still rather wobbly though valiantly attempting to keep up with the husky) and Xander back to work.

Gracie was pleased to meet them and happily agreed for Willow to ride on the wheeled training sled for a not so wild ride around their regular training run. The entire team minus Chloe was running and the pace though fast was controlled, something Willow appreciated as she held onto the rails at the side of the small sled. Afterwards she and Gracie chatted easily while Chloe and Spike communed. Chloe was only a ten days or so from delivering her litter and Willow couldn’t help but note the very attentive Spike licking over her ears tenderly before lying alongside her protectively.

The young outdoorsy Gracie with her wild dark blonde hair, determined brown eyes and wide smile was both curious and friendly, and Willow relished sharing tales of her own, rather interrupted university life. Gracie was studying exercise physiology and sports psychology, with an intention to work in the outdoor education or tourist adventure area.

Their common ground was friendship with Xander (and Spike), a love of the earth in all her glory, and of learning.

The cycle home was easy and Spike left to his own devices until Xander returned from work while Willow refocused on her research. Her notes were meticulous but the news from her various contacts still had not borne fruit. She consoled herself (and later Xander) by saying it was only early days.

PART 16

The following days followed much the same pattern, though the conversations between dog and witch became increasingly more philosophical, Willow wondering yet again at Spike’s intelligence and depth of thought; his tenacity and resilience regardless of circumstance; and above all his capacity for forgiveness and love. No more was it apparent than in the final afternoon of conversation prior to Willow’s return to England.

It began with a simple statement one rainy afternoon, Xander was late home and the dog had joined her as she poured over a text she had been sent by one of the African covens.

Spike indicated he needed help with his second paw fitting then wrote, “Taa Red. Just wonderin’, do you reckon I’ve got a human soul, you know given circumstances. ‘Cause even when I let go, let the husky take over… still feels like I’ve got a soul.”

“Spike, I… I would think that you have *your* soul. I… Everything is connected…”

“Connected, yeah got it… plenty of that… but what of the soul? Bloody well change its name if you want… the essence, the spark, I dunno… just… whatever I fought so hard for, the thing that had me in the basement, gave me strength to one up me ol’ Sire in a way… Is all of that just guilt an’ regret or is it more? Universal Collective Morality exclusive to humans? The Great Narrative written by someone else? Or just some random set of evolved genetically bound compulsions that somehow got subsumed when the demon took over? Ya know some deluded bastard even tried convincing everyone he could weigh the thing by measurin’ the dyin’ way back in the day.”

Willow was still considering her answer when Spike began furiously typing again, the computer correcting much of his spelling on the fly.

“And what if the demon compulsions were just playin’ off what was already there – just released ‘em for use. What if it’s not what keeps us all in line, by guilt ‘n such. What if all it did was acknowledge that humans are organisms like any other and so are fit for the kill… you know, food? Same as humans see all the edible around ‘em. An’ what if it’s more Red? What if it really is what ties me to the something after… Been around the turnstile so many times now with it I’m beginning to wonder if this is the last time, or is this all there is, this reality ‘n me in whatever guise – sure gives the religions opting for reincarnation a bit of a guernsey… in which case, what happens after this doggy life hmmm?

“I… Spike I really can only answer with my beliefs. I believe that Gaia exists because it is all I can conceive of to explain all that happens here on this plane – and the Higher Powers for that which is not. It is a name only I guess, but it makes sense of things. There is so much we don’t understand, even as humans with a deep connection to the magical fabric. I know we can tap into the energies of the earth and the energy of other beings, and that every system in the universe strives for equilibrium. And I do believe that is why the balance will be restored somehow. It’s what is wrong here… the equilibrium has been tampered with, the scales deliberately tipped by the Wolf, Ram and the Hart. Their capture of Illyria and ill intent regards her energy is wrong, though we have yet to see any symptoms of them using her. It is that we will try to redress, but we may need to wait for some sign before we can track her to their holding place… we just need to wait to trace the source.”

Willow tried to look her hopeful best, but all Spike saw was how much older, how wiser and how much more fatigued she appeared.

“’S OK Red… Used to rollin’ with the punches. Got another ten or so years ta do it in this round.” He paused for a moment then looked at her with the saddest of baby blue eyes.

“Just bin doin’ too much thinkin’, pups due an all. Can’t help wonderin’… Do they get my human essence? My vampire one? Or my husky??” Spike stopped mid thought then seemed to sigh but looked up with a glint of real love in his eyes, “Chloe’s got a soul ya know, ‘m sure of it… connection with her is real. She’s an innocent, sweet ‘n loving, ‘n loyal to a fault, can see that a mile off. Make a great mum. Still feel like I betrayed the boy though havin’ kids ‘n all, but they’ll be ours too in a way, least ways ‘til they’re… ‘s not fair… but ‘m sure they’ll… even if…”

Spike stopped suddenly, tore off his writing implements and raced for the back door. It was all too much. He made it to the lemon tree and threw up what little he had in his stomach unceremoniously. Still feeling ill, the husky instinctively found a mild thistle in the corner and chewed at its leaves, drank a little from the bucket that had been placed under a slow dripping tap nearby, then flopped onto his mat, wishing only to stop thinking.

Willow was standing staring at the screen, still visibly upset, as Xander came through the door.

Xander froze, “What’s happened?”

“I still don’t have the answers Xan… I really don’t know if there is a solution to all this, because it’s not that simple is it. I just wish I could do more… you know more to somehow fix all this now! But for all the research we are still waiting for the contact with Battle Brand… I have to go Xan… He won’t talk to anyone else at the moment for some reason. I mean that could be a good thing but what if it’s not, what if he’s just waiting to tell me bad news or worse, nothing…” She stood and flung herself into Xander’s arms, “I’m so sorry Xan! All this way and I’m… Oh Goddess.” Xander hugged his friend tight as hid her tears in his jacket.

Willow listened to the reply as a near rumble through his chest, “You’ll try I know that and… I don’t know Wills… all I know is that I love him as he is and kind of realize how much I really would love him as a man shaped Spike. I guess we just both hoped… I guess we hoped that regardless, the puppies might help in some way… you know either way. And however many times I wish…”

Willow pulled up a little and stared squarely at Xander’s one brown eye with her teary green, “I know you and he will be together no matter what, but if he’s like he is now then chances are you will have to say goodbye someday, and if the spell is somehow reversed then he’ll have to say goodbye to you… Unless…” Willow frowned hard for a moment.

“Unless what?”

“Oh I just have a… let’s work on one thing at a time. Just before I pack away all this stuff ready for tomorrow, can I just get some extra notes, you know from your perspective. I know we’ve talked, but there are a couple of things missing.”

“Sure just let me put away the work stuff and check on Spike. I’ve booked us a restaurant for tonight – you up for Calgary cuisine? Jerry and co. are coming so it’ll have to be a bit family friendly fare. We’re meeting them at seven. You wanna do it before?”

“If you don’t mind, kind of like to finish it off while today is still in my head.”

“OK back in ten.”

Xander went out the back and sat quietly beside Spike’s rug. The dog didn’t lift his head, merely angled sad blue eyes up and waited for the inevitable pat. It came without comment and the two sat in silence for a time.

Eventually Xander near whispered, “Love you friend… love you always.” Then went inside to converse with Willow for the last time on an ‘official basis’ before preparations needed to be made to go out.

Minor details were covered: where Spike slept; how they conversed normally; how the decision to ‘breed’ Spike came about; along with a strange request to try to recall any particular moments that had involved spells or wishes, of any kind, involving Spike and he.

“Not with the spell making… spells not of the good for the ol’ Xanman here… but… um… couple of times with the real wishes… well lots really but only a couple of times seriously. Selfish times… but not like anyone’s listening right?”

Willow said under her breath, “You’d be surprised…” then out loud, “You have a special connection Xan… very special and that should give hope… Somehow you have bound your essence to his, I can feel that. Every time you are together Xan… it’s so strong. I’ll do my best Xan, I really will. He deserves to have you and you him, but…”

“Don’t worry Willow we already do. Never had a better companion, a better friend. I can be quiet with Spike, can tell him anything, be myself around him… so if this is all it can be I will love him to the end.”

Willow simply nodded and replied, “We *will* try Xan… that’s all I can promise.”

“Yeah…” Xander stood and moved to the door. “So how’s about we go eat. Food all of the good – I’ll just set up the TV for Spike. Dogs a big no-no in restaurants still.”

The evening was a fun one with Jerry’s boys were in fine form and kept up a happy chatter during the meal, particularly excited when the table adjacent had a birthday cake was delivered by singing ‘mounties’ and the entire restaurant was encouraged to sing along.

Spike greeted them at the door at nearly midnight, and was rewarded with a quiet pat from both tired humans. The farewell at the doors of the departure lounge was similar. Hugs and quiet goodbyes but no tears from Willow as she looked back and waved then disappeared into the building. They had decided that it would be there not in the terminus as there was little point eking out the farewell.

There was hope for a restitution but still no guarantees, at least not until Willow had an opportunity to speak to the Battle Brand and sort out what the situation with Illyria was, so the ride home in the car lacked any commentary from Xander. Spike too was feeling rather flat, something not missed by Xander as he let the dog out of the car then waited patiently for him to enter the house first. Perhaps a run to Gracie’s might help.

They had returned the bike the previous night so Xander pulled out his old skate board and hooked up the running harness to Spike who lifted his chin dutifully to allow the soft leather straps might be fastened more easily.

Chloe was in a strange mood when the two arrived. She didn’t seem able to settle and Gracie complained that the soon to be mother had growled at her when being fed the previous evening. Spike calmly licked over her ears as usual but it did not seem all that appreciated, Chloe merely flopping down on her side. Though she did allow him to stand over her on guard as it were, while Xander spoke to her owner.

Spike heard the conversation clearly, “I think she might produce a little sooner rather than later.”

“Is that good?”

“Well she’s only carrying four according to the vet, so it could be early. And she’s really healthy. The change in behaviour is kind of consistent with an approaching birth, so it shouldn’t be long now. I’ll give you a call when she starts.”

“Is it wise for Spike to be with her?”

“Normally I would say no, but I’m sure it would be fine, so long as he lets her have her space. I’ll give you a call when she starts.”

Their Sunday was taken lazily after that. A quiet walk to the park and bit of a romp around for Spike, then home for a baked dinner and evening of television while Xander read over the plans once again.

There was no call from Gracie the following day or the one after, though Spike was run as usual with the team and stayed for a little to fill in his day while Xander was at work. He was a little dismayed as Chloe became more and more solitary in her actions. Gracie reassured him with a pat each time. There was little to do but wait.

On the fourth night after Willow had left, an excited Gracie rang around nine pm announcing that Chloe had given birth to four perfect little pups. Mother and babies were well and Spike was nervous, he could hardly wait to see them though indicated he was prepared to wait until the next morning as Xander stroked over Spike’s ears.

“Do you want to go now.” The shake of the furry head indicated Spike’s answer. “We’ll wait until morning then?” The simple nod and begging eyes were all that Xander needed. “First thing it is.”

That night dog and ‘owner’ both slept under a single cover, Xander curled up around his friend, arm over the strong torso protectively. Tomorrow would be Spike’s day, Xander had to work but decided as he fell into slumber, that he would go in late so as not to miss the first meeting of Spike and the puppies.

It was barely light as Xander loaded his dog into the car and they took a quick trip to Gracie’s.

Spike could not sit down during the short journey, despite Xander’s repeated pleas, instead turning and giving out tiny whimpers of agitation and excitement. Xander barely had the door open before Spike leapt out, took a short run up and all but cleared Gracie’s side fence. In his rush for Chloe, he didn’t feel the harsh metal bar as it scraped his hind legs, nor register at first that Gracie was bending down to open the lock on the gate and that Chloe was nowhere in sight.

He checked the back yard swiftly, panic taking over from all rational thought. He could smell her in all the nooks and crannies, her kennel was empty, but the yard was devoid of movement. Spike howled to the heavens, to anyone who might listen. It could not be! Where were his children? His Chloe?

The bereft husky rechecked the yard before noticing both Xander and Gracie standing at the back door to Gracie’s home, apparently encouraging him to enter. He raced for the door then paused, frozen on the spot as he heard small whimpers from within. He could hear them…

Spike rushed past the humans, his Chloe had heard his howl and grunted a low acknowledgement. He had no time for niceties, instead flew past the two bipeds and to his family. Chloe, though still feeding the last of the litter, stood to greet him. After which she flopped back down exhausted and waited while he inspected his… and her… firstborn four.

He nudged each tiny furred bundle gently, then licked over them. Their taste was sweet with mother’s milk, and tiny tails and ears twitched as they were caressed with a tongue that smelt somehow familiar. Even as newborns they knew and instinctively and lay on their backs as he nuzzled.

Spike was utterly overcome by the moment. They were beautiful, and they were his, *really* his, and he adored Chloe even more. He noted her eyeing him carefully and knew she too needed his mark, his reassurance. He finished licking the last, a silver coloured little girl then looked at the mother of his children with adoration and wonder.

As a concerned Xander and Gracie watched on he moved to a full down position in front of the mother of the matching set - two girls and two boys and placed his own head under her chin. She licked him, then the position was reversed and he gave her a thorough caress with hot tongue over her muzzle eyes and ears, after which he stood behind her in sentinel pose while the four little ones again sought her teats.

Gracie looked on in wonder and said almost as an aside to Xander, “Our family has been breeding huskies since I can remember… I’ve never seen such a reaction from the father before. In wolves one expects it… Oh look!”

Her last expression of surprise was response to Spike moving to cradle the little ones on the other side of Gracie, their two prone forms making a perfect circle around the young ones. She then stood and in the process detached the four little mouths still suckling and moved toward her food bowl and the water that she so craved. The pups whimpered their protest with high pitched voices then found their way to the offered warmth of their father.

Spike looked up at Xander with his own devotional thanks to his human protector then retuned his attentions to pushing the last of his brood into the warmth of his body while Chloe had a break.

Xander left for work with the image of Spike, his father-husky Spike, curled up around four tiny sleeping furry forms. All had his blue eyes. Three had dark markings and one was ‘blonde’. A twinge of jealousy and sadness mixed with joy as he pulled out of the drive.