The Order of the Dark Oracle

Disclaimer: The Buffy Universe and all Characters are owned by Joss Whedon, Mutant Enemy, Fox etc. Marvel Universe, X men and other heroes are owned by Marvel, Spike Lee and other superior beings I have written this story exclusively but have referenced real time events from the Buffy series and Marvel comics. I am making no money from writing this, but just felt that the tale needed to be told.

Future work in progress: I have a number of story ideas but will be aiming to finish this first. I will be publishing a chapter a week wherever possible.

Distribution: adult-fanfiction.org amd TTH.com exclusively at present although I may post on additional forums at some point in the future. I may also edit work slightly to allow posing on more sensitive forums.

Feedback: Please leave feedback if you enjoy the story or have comments on its direction. Ultimately I am doing this for you as well as myself so am thankful for any input you wish to add.

Email: jason.thornton3@ntlworld.com

Spoilers: Historical references to all that has gone in history in the various universes.

Timing: October 1998 just after Buffy has slain Angel and sent him to hell and after his mysterious return to the mortal plane. Marvel universe 1998 although events sit outside of the marvel universe as most occur in alternate dimensions.

Author’s notes: This is a story concept adopted by Marvel in the first instance. The Watchers are an omnipotent race that observe above all else. In other fiction works there are watchers such as in Buffy, Highlander, Dr Who and even Star Trek (‘Q’). It is therefore an apt place to tie several series together in one multidimensional story thread. I hope you like it. I have put lots of warnings on this as I am uncertain even now of its direction as there will certainly be a lot happening that could rock the fabric of all that is and all that could be.


I am The Watcher. I am assigned to see all that occurs on Earth. I have recorded its history, and observed its inhabitants for millennia. As per my duties, I have also watched, heard, and read change in the culture of earth’s inhabitants. I am from a race of beings that spreads across the cosmos and throughout infinite dimensions. Everything that has, is and could happen is recorded by us. Of course the infinite threads of probability beyond your mortal comprehension but believe my word when I tell you that anything really is possible.

I am pledged though only to observe and to never interfere, it is a sacred oath that I uphold beyond all else. An oath which I will carry to the end of all that is if necessary!

The reason is simple for a world and its society can be changed by even the slight shift in the wind. Should I have but an ounce of contact with its people the cultural influence would spread like a virus across the globe and the cosmos. Though I may seek to do good it would in the end cause more harm than good.

Has this always been the case you ask? For me, yes but many in eons gone by others like me have strayed from the path with intentions they believed to be noble and just. Their foolishness however has caused irrevocably damage to countless dimensions that now dwell in darkness.

What I share with you now is one such tale that I hope will serve as a warning for those who would think to follow in their footsteps.

I have named this tale:

‘The order of the Dark Oracle’

Our tale begins with a young man by the name of Xander, an interesting name formed from the ancient name ‘Alexander’ which you may or not know means the protector of mankind. Such a child was never more aptly named as this young man is going to find out sooner that he may think:

Xander woke with a start!

“Where are you going bitch” Echoed the damning rant of his drunk father across the empty rooms of their house. ‘Slap’ - ‘Thud’ a smack and a door slammed closed and Xander’s heart sank. He tucked his head under his pillow for comfort but it could not drown out the language or chorus of grunting and moaning noises coming from their bedroom as his submissive mother pampered to the thugs drunken whims.

He needed to get out of there, get a place of his own. If only he had the strength to stand up to his father who was a bully of the worst kind. One with the attitude and cruelty but also who had the strength and muscle seasoned from years of bar room brawling. The chilling twist was at times that he dictated he had the smoothest tongue and the most charming misdemeanour which covered his brutality with the neighbours, child welfare and police whenever he had been reported in the past. His mother sadly fell for it every time which made him feel sick.

He lay there for a few moments more until he could stand it no more and threw on some clothes and quietly snuck out of the house. It was late but he knew that it was likely Giles would be at the magic box still awaiting a night report from Buffy or she may even be training. Either way he would welcome better company than was on offer in his house.

Surprisingly though the Magic Box was all locked up and dark when he got there and his heart sank. Looking about the streets were deserted, good job really as in Sunnydale the only things to walk the night were demoness, vampires or the odd slayer or two (if you count the wayward Faith in those numbers).

‘Hmm what to do could he really go home now? Not really. Perhaps Giles was at his home. It was worth a shot.’ He thought and turned and headed there.

Fortunately this idea favoured him better as Giles lights were on so it looked good. He walked up to the door and was about to knock when he heard some weird chanting going on out back.
Cautiously he crept around the back, careful to ensure the back gate didn’t creak. He picked up a large stone and clasped it in his hand above his shoulder in case he needed to strike at something. With no super strength in his muscles he had learned to prepare any edge that he could. He noticed the flickering of lights like a bonfire dancing with the shadows coming from the back yard and quickened his steps. As he emerged his eyes were drawn to a bright circle of light glowing on the floor spiralling inwards and seemingly pulling an entranced Buffy within it. He had no time to take in the surroundings as instinctively he ran forwards and jumped to grab her and pull her back. Too late he heard the shocked protests of Willow and Giles from the shadows protesting ‘Xander …No’ in tandem.

He grasped Buffy and without any anchorage they were both dragged inside almost immediately.

Flashes of wind, light and thunder whipped past his senses in a ferocious tunnel of energy and his stomach stated to retch. Then suddenly it was over as fast as it began as he landed hard on the back of a bewildered Buffy.

“What …What are you doing here?” She gasped clambering from under Xander who she realised was with her for the first time.

Xander looked flushed as he looked about at the raggedy landscape buried beneath a thick reddish sky. “Guess … we are not in Kansas any more” He frowned.

“Sorry Buff … but it looked as if you … were being sucked in here … wherever here is?” He panted trying to catch his breath and his stomach.

They looked at each other, Buffy trying to be mad, Xander trying to feign innocence when suddenly a shock pillar of flame erupted skyward nearby and they both fell away from the wash of heat and hit the ground with a thump.

“Hell!” Buffy snapped.

“Yer,” that was pretty close a few more of them and I am betting we won’t be needing a sun bed anytime soon!”

Buffy nodded hen shook her head. “No I meant we are in hell!” She explained.

“Oh …Err…that’s a relief, Erm….HELL!” Xander snapped realising the truth.
“What the? … Why”

“Err Giles … Why else!” Buffy stood up resolutely brushing off the ash like sand and shrugged. “He got word late from the watchers council that a big bad demony thing had been opening portals to our world using something called the ‘Soul sword’ so my mission was to step across and try and recover it before it allowed the residents from this plane to plan a field trip to Sunnydale.” She looked up at where the portal that had transported them to this plane had been but it was gone. “Damn, your interruption must have cut off the thread that Willow and Giles had attached to me. Now we could be stranded here.”

“Oh, great, sorry, but why all the cloak and daggers. I mean I know I am not super slayer material and all but usually I can play the part of a good side kick with all the witty lines and the occasional ‘great scott Buffy you kicked his ass’ line.” Xander regained his feet shaking his jacket off and rejoined her. “You know remember team ‘Scooby’ and all.”

“Sorry, didn’t mean to hurt your feelings but there wasn’t time. Willow determined that the next portal was likely to come from this spot so it was the best place to…..”

She never got to finish as a bright circle of light formed across the floor and a dark shadow emerged from it.

The shadow was broken by the reddish light of the plane as she fully materialised and stood before them was a young demonic female brandishing a bright silver long sword that appeared as much a part of her arm as of itself.
Her legs and feet were goat-like, furry and cloven. Her bodice was buckled in taught spiky metal plating and her reddish face bore dark glistening lipstick and blackened eyes that emanated shadow. From her brow grew tall horns twisting through thick blonde hair which seemed to contrast and cool the otherwise evil visage of this hell spawn. A pointed devil like tail wrapped itself around her leg and she hissed at the intrusion of two mortal invaders to what surely must be her home plane.

Buffy stepped in front of Xander defensively and he didn’t quibble. He was used to making up the rear guard and weapon less he was he felt quite useless.

“So you going to stand there purring all day or are we going to get it on?” Buffy quipped.

She removed her jacket revealing a harness which housed two curved knives that seemed to glow with the presence of the demoness and Buffy drew these in earnest.

The beast moved towards her sword outstretched and Buffy circled looking for an inlet to strike. Xander moved back his eyes scouring the landscape for any further threats and also any weapons of sort. He retrieved the stone he had carried over from the other side but it seemed so lame here and so he resolved to watching the two combatants and for any opportunity to offer support.

Buffy lunged forward but her blade was parried away, swiftly she twisted with the parry and brought the other blade down on the demoness’s flank. The blade bit armour though which seemed to form on impact and prevented it from penetrating the demoness's flesh but impact was good enough as a flicker of light bounced from the blade and seemed to burn where it touched the armour.
The demoness lurched and let out a shrill scream then snarled and lurched again at Buffy.

Buffy narrowly avoided the assault and kicked out to force distance between them. They broke apart and circled each other again.

“It hurt?” Buffy taunted. “Drop your sword and I will think about not doing it again.”

“Hiissss, Rowwwlll.” Came a snarling retort.

Buffy thrust downwards towards the demoness’s exposed legs but this time she was quicker and leaped over Buffy’s head, Buffy spun and dragged a blade up catching the beast on the back of her thigh and the demoness fell awkwardly reeling in a cloud of ash.

Xander fell back to keep himself clear but hit something hard and unexpected. He almost fell but was held aloft by what appeared to be an arm that was hot to touch. He looked about struggling to be free but was held tight.
Beside him slowly phasing in was a humanoid dressed in bright red robes and he saw that its arm was holding him in a vice like grip.
Out of the corner of his eye he could see Buffy and the demoness reengaging but his attention was drawn to the devilish looking face of the creature that held him. It was humanoid but even his skin was bright red and glowing and flaming red hair with a pointed beard and slender moustache which his other claw like hands were toying with.

“They do make great viewing don’t they my boy?” He smiled cunningly at Xander.

Xander was still a bit agape. “Err yeah….” He stuttered….. “Who are you?”

“Oh, where are my manners…I am Mephisto.” He grinned “and you are Xander, that’s Buffy and … Darkchilde….Now we are all introduced… Happy?” He mocked.

“Yeah..but how did you…” Xander started.

“Know? Why my dear boy, it wouldn’t be any good being master of this realm without knowing who is messing about in it. Ordinarily I would let the ‘lessers’ deal with it but I sensed something here that sparked my interest. Two kindred souls locked in mortal combat each trying to destroy the other and yet neither knowing that the other could be their very saviour.” He glanced towards the two and snapped his fingers. Both froze in time where they stood. Xander gasped. “Come let’s look a little closer at these two!”

He let go of Xander and walked slowly to the statuette forms and circled both stopping just the other side. Xander followed rubbing his shoulder which felt bruised and a little singed.

“Now here we have a situation don’t we. On one hand you have your Buffy. Strong, vibrant and beautiful and lets not forget,” He clicked his fingers again and suddenly she was dressed in a red silky baby doll night gown. “, so soft sensual and well curved I have to admit!” Mephisto reached out and glided his hands across the surface of her body outlining the shape.

“Don’t touch her!” Xander scolded. Then stopped himself….’yeah he’s going to listen to you.’ He thought.

“Oooh I do believe I have struck a nerve with the man inside the boy.” He taunted. “You want her don’t you…come on you can confide in me…after all I can see inside your soul and I can feel your yearning. She would never know you know, just frozen in time as she is she couldn’t even resist!” He smiled a twisted smile as one hand grasped Buffy’s buttock and the other toyed with his beard.”

“ No…I…I…just couldn’t, I would know and I couldn’t live with that.” Xander shook his head. “Is this is why you have left me free so you can taunt me into selling my soul…well I am not buying.”

Mephisto looked wounded. “Why me. No that was never my intention I just wanted you to have more confidence to reach out and take what has been denied you for so long before this demoness runs her through.” He raised an eyebrow and frowned. “She will you know. Then poor little Buffy will be dead and you will be wishing you had grasped the opportunity with both hands.” He reached out and grabbed Buffys breasts and seemed to take pleasure as he fondled them and flicked out his tongue letchfully towards Xander.

Xander flushed angrily but held himself knowing he was out of his league here.

He stared at Xander baiting a reaction and smiled for a few moments to see if tell tale signs of doubt were creeping in but when there was no movement retrieved his hands and clicked his fingers and Buffy returned to normal then he pursued. “Or of course you could always save Buffy by taking one of her knives and plunging it into the demoness’s heart. That would only be doing what your girl would want you to do but is incapable at this moment. You know be a man…be a hero…win her heart. You never know she may even offer herself freely as a reward?” Eyebrows raised. “Oh Xander my knight in shining armour you saved me. Take me I am yours, take my body, its yours.” He mimicked Buffys voice to a tee and he ran his hands up and down his body groping wantonly.

Xander didn’t rise to this although it seemed very weird instead he paused thinking of this latest proposition. What was there to lose? I mean Buffy was going to kill her, why not he? He slowly stepped forwards and removed a knife from Buffy’s hand and stared at it.

Mephisto instantly joined him at his side and whispered in his ear. “Good, that’s it, slay the beast without remorse; I mean what is the consequence. She is evil. Dig deep. Enjoy it” He made the action of stabbing his other hand repeatedly.

Xander stared at the demoness a hand firm in the borrowed blade. He body seemed to twist and distort making her look twisted and more beastly. He poised to strike but then his eyes met hers and from the shadowed hollows he noticed a tear emerge and run down her cheek so he stopped himself. He paused and thought then a moment later he swung lunging forward with the blade but at the last instance twisting to miss the demoness and strike this would be devil straight in the chest.

It sunk in and he found himself pushing, digging deeper with the blade. Mephisto fell on the floor in shock. He stretched out fighting back the pain and caught Xander's shirt.
“Why?...We could have been friends.” He winced then fell back eyes closed and mouth agape.

Xander left the blade where it was and went back to Buffy and the demoness. “Well if you ladies can just sit and talk this one out now it would be great.”

He moved around the demoness and grabbed her sword trying to remove it but as he first observed it seemed welded to her hand.

Suddenly the two combatants resumed and Xander was thrown back. He thought he had been cut as the blade slices right next to his hands but he checked and they were untouched ‘Phew that was close’ he thought. The demoness went to strike and Buffy to parry with an ‘empty hand’, she looked shocked as the sword slid by and caught her straight through her heart. Then at that instant they froze again.

“Tsk, tsk, tsk… You see there are now consequences to your actions or inactions. You chose not to play and your friend dies. Did I not say it would be so?” Came a familial voice from behind Xander.

He turned to see Mephisto on his feet smiling. The knife still imbedded in his chest.
“What…but you were….”

“Dead, hmm, mortals are all the same. You have such limited concept of life and death that it amuses me to play once in a while.” He grinned a twisted knowing grin. “Now how can I put this … oh yes…I am immortal, master of all you survey and guess what? That means …..I cannot die here!”

Xander froze as if the words cut right through him. Then mustered a bit of strength to ask “What do you want from me?”

“Now then there’s a question. Do you know I really don’t want anything from you. Your alive, so don’t belong here. I don’t sense any mystical qualities about you so you’re no use as a servant. However you do have links to this one,” He indicated at Buffy. “Now that makes you of some use. She is special…Gifted…She could also serve me well with the right motivation but what to use?”

He pondered for a moment playing with his beard. Xander looked back at the agonising look on Buffys face with the blade imbedded and felt emotions of regret and loss stir within him.

“I know.” The devil finally snapped. “I save her life and let the sword pass through her without harm but in return you must have her perform a small favour for me…just a little thing…hardly noticeable in the grand scheme of things…treat it more as a comfort factor for me for having done something as grand as saving her life.” He smiled as soft and innocent a smile his face was capable of.

“What.” Xander asked.

Mephisto leaned over and whispered in his ear. “I want the fresh life blood passed from her next mensal cycle and I want it freely given by her to you…you know all women experience it and just throw it away … but I would like it as ….a keepsake.”

Xander pulled away feeling sick. “Why? What use is that to you?” He protested.

“I have my reasons and lets not forget without me she dies and if she dies here her souls mine regardless so I think the pair of you are getting off light don’t you think?” Mephisto pressed

“But … How…and how will I get it to you?” Xander puzzled.

“Oh don’t worry about that my boy we will work something out. You just get it and store it here.” He opened his hand and a small crystal vial appeared. “Now take care not to open it until you have what I asked. Place it inside and seal the top and our contract is completed.”

“So you save her life I get you her…the stuff and we are finished.” Xander summarised.

“Absolutely. So we are in agreement?” He pushed the vial towards Xander.

Xander reluctantly took it and nodded. At that very instant Mephisto was gone and behind him he heard Buffy scream and the sound of her fall to the ground.

The demoness pressed the blade in and then pulled it out and all three of them looked on to find there was no wound where the blade had struck. Xander was relieved and just caught a tear from falling. Mephisto had honoured his pledge it seemed not he was committed to his own.

Buffy sprung to her feet and moved towards the demoness again but she was disengaged with her sword lowered and faded into nothingness. Buffy did not strike for as they watched the redness in the skin seemed to lighten and the demonic visage wavered softening to the smother curves of a slender woman. Her hooves changed to feet, horns untwisted but became nothing more than small points on her forehead and the shadows in her eyes melted to radiant blue.

All stood facing each other for an instant then the demoness spoke in a soft unbecoming voice. “Forgive me. I thought you enemies. I see now that you are not.”

“Who are you?” Buffy asked not lowering her knife.

“I am Magik. Sorceress queen of Limbo and this is not our fight but if you will permit me I would take us away from this hell hole and try to make some sense of it.”

Buffy looked at Xander who seemed as lost in all this as she was and then turned back to the woman and nodded.
Instantly three white circles appeared around the floor beneath Buffy, Xander and Magik and all three vanished.

As they did a faceless grin appeared in the air nearby and an evil cackle echoed across the barren landscape “So the games begin!”

…………………………………………………………………………………………….

The trio emerged in what at first appeared to be a grand hall decorated in spender but on closer inspection revealed the ornamentation and décor was all twisted and warped like some insane nightmare.

Magik waved her hands and a darkened fireplace sprang to life with a purple fire that toyed with the shadows and made the place feel creepier still. She turned to sit on an imaginary chair and one sprang into life beneath her rising from the very floor to form a golden throne which bore facial images bearing tortured expressions.

“Please make yourself at home.” She said indicating to two other similar chairs that began to form behind Buffy and Xander.

Buffy shrugged and sat down.

Xander looked down at the images, he was sure one of them moved, and he gulped and turned back to Magik. “No, its Ok I’m good.” He said shifting awkwardly on his feet.

“So where are we now…care to explain why you got that demony thing going on then suddenly after striking me down you go all sweet and innocent?” Buffy raised an eyebrow.

“Hmm, where to begin?” She mused playing with her hair. “OK, well it all started a few days back when holes started to appear in my realm not of my creation. Ordinarily I have complete control over entrances too and from my realm but these were of an origin I could not trace. They have been progressively getting worse and it’s been sapping all my energy to keep them in check. A few moments ago a portal opened in my very mansion. This time I didn’t wait I just jumped through and emerged where I found you and assumed you were the ones intruding.”

“So why the ‘Big, Bad, hairy and ugly’ routine.” Xander frowned.

“Oh that, sorry, it happens when I leave this realm. Ever since I died I have struggled to retain my true form. The dark childe in me springs forwards and takes over, it’s a real effort of will to suppress it.” Magik rambled her voice a little shaken. “Sometimes I feel it might absorb me and in doing so I might lose all that I am.” She caught herself and turned back to her guests. “Anyway why were you in hell anyway?”

Buffy paused and looked at Xander then back at Magik “We were sent to retrieve something to stop portals appearing on our world also. I was told that an object called the ‘Soul Sword’ was causing it? However I take it that that’s the weapon you were brandishing so maybe we have our wires crossed. However we seem to have a mutual problem so perhaps we can work on solving it. Do you have any ideas?”

Magik raised her hand and the sword materialised out of thin air casting a brighter glow across the room. “The ‘Soul Sword’ is an extension of my eldritch power and not to be removed on a whim. It certainly has nothing to do with the portals.”

“Then how did you transport us here?” Buffy pressed.

“Oh my teleportation discs? They are and extension of my mutant ability, nothing to do with the sword.” She explained.

“Oh so you’re a mutant…and that would explain the demon thing you got going on too eh?” Xander asked twirling his finger outlining imaginary horns on his head.

“Nah that’s just an inheritance.” She dismissed.

“Wait, back up one step. Did you say you had died?” Xander recalled. “If that’s the case how come you’re walking and talking because in my book that’s a bad thing unless you know otherwise?”

“Depends on your perspective. You see on the mortal world I died of a crippling virus that was destroying my kind and on my last dying breath I was transported here and have been here since, banished eternally from the mortal realm.” She sighed. “So here I am alive and the power absolute over my realm but if I could I would give it all up to have my brother Piotr hold me in his arms once more.” A tear trickled down her face but as it dripped it turned to ice and she caught it in an invisible grip. “His little ‘Snowflake’ he used to call me and the name warmed me inside each time he called. Now we are forever separated by the supreme powers.”
She stood and the snowflake vanished as did her sword. “Anyway all this fluff is not moving things along. I don’t even know why I am telling you this anyway, I mean we only just met…and yet you seem familiar in some way… hmm.”

“Right then, what now then?” Buffy got to her feet also. “Any idea’s who might be behind this?”

“No, not a clue.” Magik declared. “The portals are a mystery to me but if they continue to open and grow I am afraid I may not be able to hold this realm together and with it gone I may forever lose myself with it.”

“Hey...hey, hey. Time out!” Xander called. “Are we forgetting ‘Mr Tall Hot and Hades’ surely he may have had something to do with it?”

Both women stared blankly at him.

“Aww come on, he was right with you all in the other place.” He snapped his fingers. “You know he just motioned and froze you in time and then with the baby doll thing and ….and I will just shut up now.” Xander flushed.

“Mephisto?” Magik snapped. “I should have known he was involved he has forever sought to extend his realm and if Limbo collapsed it would make a great tennis court and swimming pool for his mansion. It’s not like him though usually he doesn’t take the direct approach, preferring to work through others.”

Xander gulped and looked down sheepishly.

“Who is he?” Buffy asked.

“Mephisto is a powerful demon of the highest order and possesses supernatural powers beyond my capability. He is master of the Hell-like realm you passed through, Lord of lies and deceit and a master of playing on the weakness and fears of mortals.”

“So he played us?” Buffy assumed. “Xander, did he say anything about what he wanted?”

“Err no.” Xander replied carefully avoiding eye contact without trying to appear so.

“Then it’s not a good sign then, him being involved,” Buffy grinned. “So how do we kill him?”

“That’s the problem. You don’t…or mote, you can’t.” She shivered slightly. “But if he is somehow involved, I know who to ask.” She declared resolutely. Smiling she winked at Buffy. “Tell the good doctor I said hello. Call me when you’re done.” With that a portal opened beneath Buffy and in the next instant she was gone.

“What the…where have you sent her?” Xander gasped.

Magik moved towards him leaned in and smiled sweet and innocently. “Oh don’t worry about her she’s a big girl now but me. I’m just a little lost and alone. Feel like finding me?” She teased.

Xander backed off. “Err, nothing personal but you’re not really my type. I know you may be a little ‘horny’ but I mean that’s really not a big turn on for me.” He protested.

Magik looked a little insulted. “Just my luck the first boy to stray across my doorstep in any number of years and he’s frigid.” She snapped. “Oh well lets keep it purely business then. Why don’t you tell me more about you and Mephisto?” She sprawled out on her chair and it stretched to form a bed which she curled into. “You know the parts you wanted to keep from your friend.”

“You…you know?” Xander stuttered his cheeks going all flushed.

“Duh, yeah! I have a bit more going on upstairs that miss prim and proper there.” She pointed to the empty chair. “She doesn’t strike me as the most perceptive type. Besides I know Mephisto better and if he let you live he obviously wants something in return. So cough up, let’s hear it.”

“What the hell. Pardon the phrase.” Xander started. “He promised to save Buffys life and in return wanted…He wanted some of her blood.” Xander indicated towards his groin. “You know….blood.”

“Oooh..Yeuw….That’s sad, even for him.” Magik grimaced. “Whatever is he up to I wonder. You know the great thing about being a demon is you don’t get ‘periods’. Ooh I still get the mood swings, well wouldn’t anyone here alone, but I skip the monthly cycle and it’s definitely something I don’t miss.”

Xander produced the crystal vial Mephisto had given him. “He told me to use this.”

Magik went to take it but Xander held it away. “Sorry I need to keep it. Right now it’s a bargaining chip that without I feel kinda lost until I can sort something out.”

“Understandable given the circumstances I suppose, but heed this advice they don’t call Mephisto ‘Lord of Lies’ without due course. It’s his strength and can be his weakness all roped into one.” She explained.

Suddenly there was a huge crackling sound and a flaming portal of darkness ripped through the air cutting the mansion in half. Xander grabbed his chair as he fought to pull back from an invisible force that seemed to draw everything towards it.
He saw Magik instantly transform her bodice into the sparking eldritch armour and the Soul Sword materialized in her hand once again. She stood unmoving against the force as if it wasn’t there as she braced to face anything that might step through. He other hand spiralled contorting wildly in the air as she uttered some arcane incantation that Xander could only assume was to try and reseal the rift.

Two beams of white hot light shot through the portal 1 narrowly avoiding the demoness the second hit her head on. It crackled over an invisible shield that seemed to have encircled her body for an instant them broke through and sent her tumbling backwards hard against the far wall.

Magic let out an unrepeatable curse that seemed to burn for barely an instant in Xander’s mind as he tried desperately to fight the increasing gravity pull then his attention was drawn back to the portal where another volley of light appeared. And he could see from the widening rift an array of blackness and stars framing a large space craft that was fast approaching the rift.

“WE NEED TO GO NOW!” Screamed Magic and with this two white discs appeared beneath them and they were instantly transported outside.

In just the nick of time it seemed as the dark mansion they must have just occupied exploded in a massive ball of fire erupting fiery debris in every direction.
Magik raised her hands and twisted franticly some incantation to make the very ground rise up and swallow them in a vast cocoon shielding them from the shockwaves. Then a second greater explosion followed shortly after the first but this was much greater and it made the very earth shake around them. The impact of this cracked the earthly shield disintegrating it around them but Magik refused to give in her hands flayed wildly and she spoke words faster that Xander could follow as light and fire burned all around them. Xander raised his hands to shield his eyes as the lights seem to fry his mind. His ears though took the full brunt of the assault. It was too much for a sane mind to handle though and he collapsed as the darkness washed over him.

………………………………………………………………………………………………

When the light cleared Buffy found herself outside a long row of houses on a lightly damp evening. Streetlights had only just started to come on but the streets were in the main deserted apart from the occasional passing car on the road.
She looked about for any sign or indication of where she was and on a street sign up the road she could just make out ‘Bleecker Street’ Greenwich Village, New York.

‘Phew what a way to travel she thought. Sunnydale to New York with just a little stop off in Hell to warm the toes…Hmm, wouldn’t get many paying customers that’s for sure’ She thought.

Then she suddenly realised she was alone. Neither Magik nor Xander had followed. She froze slightly in panic, what was she to do now and why would the demoness sent her to New York, she knew no one there that could help.
She strained trying to remember what she had said before she left ‘Tell the good doctor I said hello. Call me when you’re done.’ That was it. But what doctor?
She looked about the street looked like any other, nothing untoward. Perhaps this doctor lived in one of these houses.

‘Oh well it couldn’t hurt to try.’ She stood outside number 12. ‘Got to start somewhere’ she thought. She rang the bell twice but got no response.

No 14 was had music playing, better she thought. Door bell made no sound so she knocked.
A few mumbles could be heard and a jingle of keys then the inner door was opened by a man in his late 50’s. “What you want?” He snapped.

“Err sorry to disturb you but I am looking for a doctor and…”

“Greenwich Village Hospital, Park Avenue, go get your fix and get out of my hair!” He cut her off then turned and slammed the door without looking back.

“But…” Buffy began but gave up.

No 16 looked derelict but she thought she would give it a go. The doorbell also didn’t work so she knocked again. There was a scuffling noise inside and sound of broken glass from the rear. ‘Bloody Squatters’ she thought.

No 18 was separated somewhat from the other buildings but looked a little better maintained on the outside. There was a pull cord door ringer which she pulled twice without a sound. She paused for a minute then knocked. After a while of waiting though without response she turned to leave but as she did she heard the tugging of latches to indicate someone was responding.

As she turned she saw the door open only slightly and a bald oriental man poked this head out. “Can I help you with something?” He said politely.

Buffy smiled, it was a relief to see a friendly face. “Yes. I am trying to find a doctor and I understand one lives in this street. Do you know of any?”

The man thought for a minute then shook his head. “Sorry I am not aware of any other doctors in the street.” He replied smiling. “The Greenwich Village Hospital is just down the road though, perhaps you will have some luck there.” He indicated down the road.

“Oh, I know, so I have been told. The thing is I am looking for a very special Doctor.” She huffed.

“Yes, see they have very many specialist doctors at the hospital….You try there. Good luck!” He nodded again.

Buffys smile faded. “Look I am sorry but you don’t understand I don’t want an ordinary doctor. I was told to look for …”

“WONG!” Came a loud voice from deeper inside the house cutting her off.

The man seemed to shudder and slipped back inside the door careful to keep it secure. “Yes Master!” He called back sheepishly.

“Show the girl in will you.” The voice responded softer this time.

The door flew open and the man indicated for Buffy to step inside. She responded promptly without hesitating and he closed the door behind her.

Inside the house was much more lavishly decorated with fine carpets and furnishings from many continents she noted. The Man identified as Wong wore a pair of green silk pyjamas and bare feet.
He bowed and smiled again at her. “You must forgive me madam. I did not realise you were seeking ‘the master’. Please follow me.

“That’s OK.” Buffy smiled back, relieved to be getting somewhere. “Is your master a doctor?” She asked as she followed him up the stairs.

“Oh he is the greatest doctor on earth.” Wong replied merrily.

He led her up two flights to a set of large oak double doors. Buffy could have sword the voice was nearer when it called and found it strange that there appeared to be a growing mystery shrouding this visit.

Wong went to knock lightly on the door but as he did so the same voice inside she had heard earlier said ‘Come in.’ He therefore pushed both doors open and bowed indicating for Buffy to enter.

Buffy paused and looked about nervously. The room was strangely quite barren but the walls were awash with magic symbols that rose higher than she thought possible in a house this size. The only décor was the occasional occult idol or picture but her eyes were drawn to the centre of the room where a large globe of the earth hovered, seemingly suspended in thin air. But no sign of the ‘master’ could be seen.

“Err Hello?” She called.

“Sorry my dear.” Came from the shadows beyond the globe and a tall figure stood up and moved towards her. She was sure he hadn’t been there a moment ago. As he came into the light she could see he was a middle aged man with dark hair greying at the sides in banded streaks and he had a long distinguished moustache that was black & tipped in white. He wore a strange blue top with a large white symbol and gold medallion resting on it and below tight fitting pants that were all held together it seemed by a yellow sash around the waste. From his shoulders stretched a large red cloak which seemed to dance of its own accord. He really was a curious but interesting sight Buffy thought. Then she caught his eyes, they were deep and mysterious but also alive and radiant as they seemed to see right through her. Those eyes looked more alert than any she had ever seen and she felt they must have bared witness to things she couldn’t possibly dream.

“Thank you Wong. That will be all” He nodded to the man who had brought her up. Buffy saw him nod and leave closing the doors carefully behind him.

“I am Stephen Strange, but I am also known as ‘Doctor Strange’ and whom do I have the pleasure of entertaining?” He greeted.

“Buffy…Buffy Summers.” She replied. “Are you a doctor?”

“Yes of a sort.” He nodded. “So where do you come from Miss Summers?”

“Erm, Sunnydale, California. It’s a little town, you probably haven’t even heard of it but its kinda …..” She rambled then stopped herself.

“Oh I know of it.” He frowned. “But you are not from the Sunnydale on this Earth now are you? How did you get here?”

“Oh, err, sorry you lost me. Not from this ‘Earth’, just which ‘Earth’ am I on then?” She pressed puzzled by his statement.

“Forgive me my dear I assumed you had some knowledge of the cosmology given the nature of your arrival. I see however that you do not. Not to worry, suffice for you to know that there is more than one ‘Earth’ existing simultaneously in parallel universes. You and your Sunnydale do not belong in this one and as you have little knowledge of this am I to assume you had some help in finding me here?” He explained.

“Yes. A demoness, or young girl, whatever called Magik sent me here to look for you as she said you may be able to help.”

“Magik?” He looked bemused. “Illyana Rasputin I had heard had passed away a while ago now. You say she is alive and well?”

“Yes, well she mentioned that and a heap of other stuff around removing herself to hell dimension when she passed. Thing is we both seem to be having a mutual problem of portals appearing randomly on our worlds. I was told to seek the bearer of the ‘Souls Sword’ to stop it but when I found her I found she as much a loss about it all as I was. Xander, that’s my partner in crime, said a demon called ‘Mephisto’ was involved….”

“MEPHISTO!” Doctor Strange cut her off sharply. “That meddling fool. What’s he up to now?” He looked a little tortured. “Every time that wretched creature is involved it ends up spelling disaster.”

“So you know him then, Well that’s…good?” Buffy frowned.

“Know him? He’s the bane of my existence it seems. Magik was right to consult me if he is dabbling with ideas of pan-dimensional domination again. This is grave I must consult the Eye of Agamotto at once and see what wisdom it can bring. Excuse me … please have a seat.” He motioned and leaped into the air and hovered a few feet above her crossing his legs and arms in meditation.

“Erm yeh I will just sit…” She looked around and to her surprise a chair sat just behind her. She sat down. “Gotta learn how to do that.” She resolved.

She watched him muttering some strange incantation under his breath then the medallion he wore glowed and a glowing eye emerged that floated up and came to rest on his forehead. Then the strange eye seemed to open and the room became a wash with a radiant light so bright she needed to avert her eyes.

It seemed only an instant then the doctor was stood again before her his hand outstretched towards hers. “I have seen much Buffy Summers, too much to explain but I bid you to join me for there will be a need for you. But first we must go quickly in search of the one you call Xander and the sorceress Magik for I fear for their safety.”

Buffy clasped his hand and was on her feet in an instant. Her concern for her friend flushed across her face.

“Don’t worry Buffy.” Doctor Strange assured her. “Xander will be safe, but we must go now.” He motioned at the wall “By the Crimson Bands of Cythorak I command passage to Limbo”

Red bands formed out of thin air and weaved a kind of dark door way. He moved through it and Buffy eagerly followed.