Branches of the Willow

by April

Copyright © 2004

xenasis@yahoo.com

Rating: NC-17
Disclaimer: All characters are property of Joss Whedon and Mutant Enemy. I only took them out for a stroll.
Distribution: The Mystic Muse    http://mysticmuse.net
Sure, just let me know where and when.
Feedback: Please.
Author's Note: I want to take just a minute to thank all those who have read this piece and especially the ones who gave me such ego boosting feedback. I could not have done it without you. Lisa, you’ve been a great beta and I’m really glad we met at Dragon Con last year. It was your listening and encouragement that convinced me to begin this epic. The continued support of the BTVS community kept me going. Salute!
Spoilers: Doppelgangland.
Pairing: Willow/Vampire Willow/Faith

Part 6    Part 7    Part 8    Part 9    Part 10

Part 6
Nurturing

As her Sire promised, Willow's training was fast and intensive. But it was not a problem for the newly vamped redhead. Like any other challenge that had popped up in her life, she concentrated all her energy on being a 'straight A student'. And too, as when she was younger and wanted to make her parents proud, she craved the approval of her Sire.

She learned the rules and customs of Vampire society, surprised that it was even considered a society, and tutored in her fighting skills. She was taught how to censor her thoughts from others and her Sire had even sought out a trusted mystic to help with her magic training.

After a lengthy discussion the two women agreed her magical skill should remain confidential, not wanting to arm the Master with any more power than he had. She wouldn't be able to shield all of her thoughts from the Master but by thinking of music and math formulas she could confuse him.

The first meeting they had with the Master after her training had begun went better than they had expected. He gave them permission to continue the training but expected reports and constant progress.

From dusk till dawn each day, she followed her Sire's guidance and even taught the teacher a few things. Her confidence grew as her body became stronger, senses heightened and strength rising from deep within she never knew existed. There had been flashes, like when she told Angel and Giles off when Buffy had lied and gone to the frat party.

Days became weeks then months and although she was changing she never stopped being Willow Rosenberg. There were times when she had to bury it under her new persona but she vowed to hold onto her humanity.

Though the twins had different personalities and styles they were often confused for one another. Her Sire, with the Master's permission had begun going by their middle name, Danielle or Dani to Willow.

Pieces of her Sire's past slowly emerged and Willow grasped each straw, trying to understand her more. She garnered that the Master had made Dani's time of captivity a living hell of torture and mental torments and she was rightfully fearful of him. That probably explained her mood swings and quick temper. A temper that once unleashed could be uncontrollable and destructive. Willow had witnessed it first hand when they had found a cadre of wandering vampires on their grounds one night. Her Sire needed no help in tearing the head off one and impaling another with a wooden handled rake.

During an argument or discussion there were times however when Willow knew not to push her Sire. She had also learned to never voice her thoughts or comments unless asked by her Sire or the Master.

As her name implied, gentle Willow could calm the fury of her Sire's storm. She had even helped Dani recapture some of her human qualities. Her Sire could be affectionate and enjoyed cuddling with her. There were times when her mind would wander or fog up a bit but Dani was still as brilliant and inventive as her child was.

Dani even made an effort to appease her child by trying to focus her kills on criminals or volunteers instead of the innocent, an effort that touched Willow. Their mutual masturbation had continued and Willow had become very skilled and knowledgeable in that aspect.

All those things had helped Willow see her Sire through different eyes now. Dani was her parent, friend, teacher, sister and mentor all rolled into one. The attention she craved and never received from her parents was now lavished on her. Even the Master had permitted her to call him Grandsire and seemed to enjoy their talks of her world. As a sign of his confidence in her, the Master put Willow in charge of acquisitions at the factory.

Thrilled with the praise and responsibility, Willow tackled it with gusto and like any other project she set her mind on, gave it her best effort, the Willow way.

It was easier than she expected to find employees she could rely on and shuffle them where they could help her plan. Under Willow's supervision the factory's blood production continued and even rose but the body count had fallen. Impressed and curious, the Master asked them to join him for dinner to discuss her future.

Explosions of pink, purple and orange coated the sky as the sun breathed its last for the day. At the same time, Willow was experiencing her own explosion.

Lying on her stomach in the large king sized bed, nude and spread eagle; her Sire rested between her legs, plunging a strap on into the tight anus of her child. The sounds Willow made signaled the approaching tide and Dani drove two fingers into her other starved cavern. Still relatively new to the anal exercise her Sire knew to be gentle until Willow asked her not to be.

Dani had chosen the dildo carefully. It was double headed so that as she pressed into Willow, the other head pressed into her as well. She felt her own orgasm roaring in her ears with each push. Willow thrust her rear-end against the invader, hard and fast driving both ends deeper until the Sire screamed her release. Not stopping her momentum, she delivered two more strokes to Willow who then screamed from beneath her.

In unison, they rode the dildo and orgasm slower, shuddering with after shocks until her Sire collapsed on top of her. Their breath was ragged and in sync, not needed but more out of habit, bodies glimmering with sweat.

Recovering first, Dani kissed the freckled shoulders beneath her, savoring the salty, honey flavor of her child's skin. "Did I hurt you?"

Willow shivered and sighed. "Yes, but in a toe curling, do the hokey pokey kinda way."

Chuckling, Dani eased her fingers and the dildo from her twin and slid out of the harness herself. Tossing it to the foot of the bed, she pulled the sheet up over them and pulled her waiting child close.

Willow snuggled against the familiar breast, kissing between them. Dani, stroked her shoulder and asked. "Were you this happy in your world?"

She snuggled even closer, savoring the floaty feelings of her body and the touch of her Sire. "Different kind of happy for a different world. And a different person."

There was silence for a few minutes before Dani spoke again. "Do I make you happy? Is there anything I can do to make it better for you?"

Pulling away slightly, Willow looked up at the frowning face with a frown of her own. "What's up Dani? We've talked about this before. You've shown me a whole new world. Sure it's different, but I wouldn't change anything."

"I worry that you'll go away and I'll be alone again. I'm afraid the Master may hurt you or take you away from me."

Propping up on her elbow, Willow eyed her twin. "One day I may decide to move on but you will never be alone as long as there's life….well you know….in my body. As for the Master, we don't give him an excuse and watch out for each other. You worry too much." A trait that they both still shared.

"You miss your world. Your friends." It was an observation not a question.

It would serve no purpose to lie so Willow sighed. "Yes. My friends. But this is my home and I have you. I made the decision."

"I'm not enough. You need more, others. Maybe it's time to move out from under my wing and make your life here."

Willow sat up, clutching the cover under her arms, hurt pouring from her eyes. "If you want me to leave, I'll pack and be gone by…"

Her Sire rose quickly, placing a finger across her lips to silence her. "Of course I don't want you to leave." Then she pulled her into an embrace. "I love you and want you to be happy. There's so much out there and I don't want you to feel obligated to stay or to feel sorry for me, or you might be getting lonely in other ways and I can't seem to get this to come out right."

'So that's what Willow babble sounds like.' She thought to herself as she saw how flustered her Sire was becoming. She offered a smile and relaxed into the embrace. "I will make other friends as time goes by but no one will ever take your place, got that? Right now I'm enjoying being with you and learning but I don't want you to feel like you have to take care of me."

"But I do." The tone became serious. "I turned you, you are my child and my responsibility and will always be but it is something that gives me much pleasure."

Blushing, Willow kissed her neck. "Thank you. You know it wouldn't do you any harm to get out and meet a few new people too. We don't want fruit punch mouth to have any excuses to interfere with us."

Dani placed a kiss on her child's forehead. "I babbled and I'm sorry I scared you." Then she cocked an eyebrow. "Fruit punch mouth?"

Giggling, Willow pulled away from her twin. "A nickname Buffy gave….never mind."

Both women felt the power of the darkness swelling. "We should get ready. He hates to be kept waiting." Dani replied as they left the safety and comfort of bed.

"Welcome children." The Master greeted as they were escorted into his lair.

"Forgive our being late my Master." Willow returned, stepping forward and nodding in respect. In her hands she held a large glass bottle. "I wanted to bring you a fresh bottle from the plant."

"Mmmm. Still warm." He observed and took the gift from her hands. "I can forgive a few moments of lateness for such a token." He motioned for a minion, then welcomed the two women to join him sitting on the pillows.

In only a few moments, the women were situated, one on each side of him with snifters of Willow's gift. He sniffed it then took a subtle sip of the red nectar. "Very good choice."

"Something we just acquired." Willow smiled at his approval. "Virgin and young." Of course she neglected to tell him that the donor was still alive and well on her way out of town as they spoke.

The Sire was hugging his leather-clad leg, her arm over his thigh with her cheek on his lap. "I've missed you Daddy." She pouted.

He ran his clawed hand through her red tresses, stopping to stroke her back. "And I you child. Training a new child is time consuming but you and yours seem to be doing well."

"She's my good girl." Dani bragged. "Works hard, learns quickly and asks for nothing."

Setting his empty glass on the arm of his chair, he now used his free hand to repeat the motions of affection on the other twin. "I have been receiving good reports on your work at the factory."

Human or Vampire, Willow thrived on doing a good job. She turned slightly, looking up at him with wide green eyes. "You're pleased?"

Tenderly, he grasped her chin. "Yes."

Willow smiled until his grip tightened. Seeing her twin's distress Dani moved to help but was pushed back in place. It was something she and Dani had discussed before and were expecting to come up. "But, I've also gotten some disturbing reports."

Rising to her knees, Willow turned so she could fully face him. "You mean the lack of dead bodies or the increase in production or the new variety that's been coming in? I assure you they all have the same answer."

Fangs glistening, he pulled her closer. "I'm listening."

When Willow had been given the responsibility at the factory she had explained to her Sire her ideas. They had led to some disagreements and loud discussions but Willow held her ground and would accept any consequences that would result.

"At the rate we were going," She started. "we would have been out of humans before the year was out. Not to mention also cleaning out our own town. No humans and a town that only lives at night would arouse more attention than I thought we would want. By bleeding our people and not draining them, we can continue to use them, and more than once. I've also made some contacts and have worked out a work release program with an area prison. They send the inmates here for services around town and to donate blood and we reap the rewards. It could also work with two other neighboring towns if we sought to expand."

The Master remained silent for a moment, then gripped her chin tightly and pulled her up, leaning over until they were almost face to face. "We are hunters. The factory itself was a concession but to give up the hunt completely…."

"Nmmp srrr." Willow got out through pinched cheeks.

"What?"

He released her ands she flexed her jaw. "No Sire, we don't give up the hunt. I only wanted to try out other alternatives to protect us. There are still hunters and a slayer out there. Not to mention enemies of our family and the occasional escaped prisoner. I was trying to protect us, Sire."

"The other Slayer. Tell me her name."

There was no way she wanted to alert him to Kendra and Faith so she told the truth, in a round about way. "Buffy Summers was the Slayer when I left."

"I saw her my Sire." Dani piped in. "She was different from the slayer you killed at the factory but it was the same person."

Finishing off his drink, he studied his child and grandchild. What the girl said made sense and her work spoke for itself. Although set in his ways he had conceded to the factory to protect them so he needed to hear out other possibilities and this one was promising. This child had the smarts without the mental quirks and he decided to allow her leeway. "You have my permission to continue with you plans but I expect regular reports."

Willow took the hand that had almost broke her jaw and kissed it. The action made her want to retch but she had to maintain her apparent subservience to him.

They were interrupted when another minion brought in two young men and chained them to the dais in the center of the room.

"In truth." He continued, ignoring the interruption. "I'm glad you're catching on so rapidly. I need my number one girl back by my side."

The two women exchanged looks, unsure of his meaning. Willow spoke first. "Does this mean my training is over?"

The sound of fear instead of confidence in her voice cheered him. "No Willow. It means that I feel you are able to do as you're told without being watched all the time." Stroking Dani's face, he seemed to have actual affection for her. "You make my girl happy. She has placed her life in your hands. You remember that."

Her next words were filled with heartfelt sincerity. "I won't forget. I love her."

His mood lightened and he clapped his hands. "Dinner's ready."

Dinner was leisurely per the Master's desire. It took all of Willow's will power to convincingly participate. Once finished, the minions carried the empty husks away, leaving the room clear but with the heady smell of copper.

All three stretched out on the pillow area next to the thrown. The twins lay together, The Sire holding her child close while Willow feigned the bliss that followed feeding.

"I'll need you both tomorrow night."

Dani sat up, careful not to disturb the girl resting against her. "Trouble?" She tried to keep the excitement from her voice but it had been too long.

Seeing her excited, pleased him. He had worried that some of the grandchild's soul had begun to rub off on his favorite. "Possibly." He cooed. "Would you like that?"

Her game face appearing answered his question. "Kakistos is bringing his games to town for a few days. We'll need to keep an eye on things and a show of force."

Willow sat up at the sound of the familiar name. "Kakistos?"

"What do you know of Kakistos?" He asked with raised ridges.

She gave him the censored version. "Oldest vampire, has cloven feet and hands. Came to Sunnydale to party and kill the slayer. Slayer dusted him."

"It's hard to believe the girl was so successful in your world and yet I snapped her neck like a twig."

The memory of Buffy's death in this world still haunted her and she pushed it to the back of her thoughts, where they didn't stay very long. She thought of Buffy, wondering if she and the other Scoobies were all right. She had missed her own high school graduation and by now Xander was probably on his cross-country trek. Buffy should be getting ready to start college, leaving the slaying to Faith for a while.

"He's hardly the oldest vampire." The Master interrupted her thoughts. "He likes to make himself older and more important than he is. Upsetting a wizard earned him the feet and hands not age."

"What kind of games?" Willow questioned.

"Gladiatorial." Dani supplied. "He has a stable of mortals, some demons and travels around in vampire circles. It's like a big fair with the fights being the main draw."

"As in fight to the death?"

Their combined silence was her confirmation.

"You have people that fight…"

"No." The Master stopped her. "Although entertaining it's a waste of food in my opinion. But there are those who find it quiet sporting and it's very lucrative so it's allowed."

The two women stayed a bit longer before asking his permission to leave for the evening. He granted it and they all three got up from the comfort of the pillows. "What time tomorrow and any special instructions?" Dani asked.

"Before sundown. Use the basement entrance. I want to be there as soon as it gets started." The women headed for the door but stopped when he called. "Girls? Be prepared for anything."

"You did well tonight." Her Sire complimented on the drive home. "But you continue to tempt his temper and wrath."

Willow was in an odd mood at the moment. "I'll deal with him, as long as it doesn't carry over to you. I am who I am."

Draping her arm over her child's shoulders, she smiled. "And you make me very proud."

"Do you think there will be trouble?"

The Sire shrugged. "I don't know. I don't trust Kakistos and he doesn't like the Master or me very much. Don't worry we'll be prepared."

Nothing could have prepared Willow for the spectacle of Kakistos' circus. The two Willows were dressed head to toe in black leather. Willow's bodice was trimmed with purple leather while her Sire's was red. They flanked the Master as they were led to the reserved seating for special guests.

What had once been the Sunnydale stadium was now a giant festival. Vendors of leather, weapons, people and other items of interest dotted the area that had once been a parking lot. Blood beer was on tap and very popular with the crowds. A section of the field was fenced off, the designated space for the gladiators. Fences at least eight feet high with razor wire along the top, two gates on opposite sides of the cage and various weapons placed along the walls.

'Somebody had seen Thunderdome a few too many times.' Willow thought to herself. The bleachers had been expanded and their seats were on the second level only a few feet from the ring. The view was clear and promised to be gory.

The gathering spectators were a mixture of vampires, demons and even a few humans. They were local or from nearby towns and clans. No disputes were allowed outside of the pen and if a fight was started among the spectators, it was finished in the pen.

There were several such traveling shows but Kakistos ran the most popular and well known. He had a sterling reputation and his stable of fighters consisted of the best humans and demons he could acquire. There were rare occasions when vampires broke the rules to the extent that they would be sold or donated to the Gladiatorial games. Kakistos happily accepted such misfortunates.

Looking over his stable of fighters, he smiled at being back in Sunnydale. He always made a lot of money and scored a few good fighters here. The down side was that it was The Master's chosen residence for now and he would be watched closely.

Theirs was a hate/hate relationship. They had known each other too long, Kakistos even knew the Master's true name, and he resented all the power the Master had. To the Master, Kakistos was merely a joke, to be humored and tolerated.

That would change one day because of the success of his games. Once he had the money to buy the force to back him, they'd see who should rule.

"Lord Kakistos?" One of his trusted inner circle called entering the stables.

"William, how is it looking?"

"A good crowd sir. The Master has arrived and is being seated, but there's something I think you're going to want to see."

He looked at the tall meaty man beside him. There was something about the youngster's demeanor that told him this was something important. "Lead the way."

They left the stables and stopped at one of the tent flaps that allowed full view of the seats. From behind the curtain, he saw what had upset the boy.

The Master was seated in the place of honor and normally the psychotic redhead and her quiet dark haired partner flanked him. That wasn't the case tonight. "Mmm. Two psychos for the price of one. Wonder how that happened?"

"I can start asking around."

Kakistos waved his clawed hand. "No. Extend an invitation to he and his party to view the fighters, prefight. Tell them to please excuse my absence and that I would like to make it up to them over dinner after the games."

The aide nodded and left to do as told. In the meantime Kaksitos planned to do some checking ahead of time.

Willow focused on protecting her Sire and the Master as they strolled down the tunnels of the stadium. It gave her something to focus on besides their tour.

Her mind could barley comprehend all that she was seeing. The area below the stadium had been converted to little more than a dungeon. 7 X 7 foot cells were currently full of fighters for the games. There were several different species but ninety percent were human.

Male, female, young and old, the games made no distinction. Many wore bruises and scars from previous fights or training but the newcomers could be spotted by their wide-eyed fear.

Some of the fighters were almost animalistic, chained and collared, their handlers using cattle prods to get them hungry for the fight. Several even growled or bared their teeth as their tour group walked by.

Kakistos' assistant was nervous and jumpy but seemed proud of all their fighters and the opportunity to show them off. He led them down a quieter hallway and they came out in no doubt what had been a locker room long ago. The equipment cage had been modified to be stronger and the area was larger and cleaner than all the others.

Inside the cage, a short, lean woman had wrapped her fingers around the top of the cage and was doing chin-ups, her muscular back to them. Even chained, her exercises never faltered or slowed. Broad, pale and taunt shoulders gleamed with sweat and rippled with exertion. The strong upper body narrowed to a slender waist and tight legs that left Willow feeling fascinated and then repulsed at herself for thinking such things about the poor soul.

Their tour guide informed them that the woman before them was the pride of the stable, Kakistos' champion fighter. He went on to regale them with some stories of her victories but the only thing Willow saw was a very attractive prisoner that she wished she could help somehow.

Seeing her child's reaction, Dani leaned over and whispered, "You like that beauty? I can see the attraction."

"There's something about her…" Willow stopped when the woman finished her exercise, dropped to the floor and turned to face them. A slim, tired face surrounded by dark brown, sweat dampened hair in a ponytail. Eyes so dark they were almost black and lips that begged to be tasted, now bearing a tiny scar above them that had never been there before.

She had last seen that face in a different world. A world where that face wore confidence and a smirk like a badge. The one she was currently looking at, was dressed in a mask of nothingness but in the eyes there was pain and hopelessness. To live or die no longer mattered, she merely existed.

Without any acknowledgement to them or their guide, she took a few steps back and crouched down, bouncing slight and kept her eyes downcast.

A horn sounded and the guide informed them that the show would be starting soon and they should return to their seats so as not to miss anything.

Willow couldn't move and held her place as the others started back up the hall. She stared at the future slayer frowning.

Dani focused her thoughts on her twin. 'What is it, Willow?'

'I want her.' She answered silently.

The Sire smiled, pleased that her child had seen someone she was interested in. 'She would be a wild one for your first but she is attractive. You could have a lot of fun with her.'

Willow hadn't meant it that way but then a part of her, deep inside had. This was a future slayer and needed to be gotten to Giles as soon as possible. She had to free the girl.

"We really should be going." The guide urged, even more jumpy than before.

The Master had turned to his girls and caught their looks and bits of their silent conversation. Rule number 14, when not among family, all thoughts were to remain silent.

Dani nudged Willow and they were led back to their seats. Once resettled and alone, He turned to his favorite and smiled. "Now what was that about? Has our little girl spotted a tasty treat she craves?"

Kakistos' aide watched as his Master paced, cloven hooves clicking on the concrete. He stopped and started for his special viewing box, William right behind him. "Parallel worlds." The old vampire muttered. "The same person but from a different reality."

Once seated the aide handed him a mug of bloodwine. "Sir, how is she able to do that?"

"The psycho red head has made a deal with a demon that can cross into alternate realities. Just think of it Willy boy. A stable full of the best fighters, never running out of your champions. Able to replace them with a simple leap. I could form an army, clear my enemies out of my way."

Smiling, he clapped his hands as the games began.

After three hours of bloody carnage and death, Willow was numb. She was anxious to see Faith again, but her Sire explained that she would be the main event and final fight. When she was in school, she had studied the lessons on war and fighting and of course there was Xander's love of military movies but none of it could ever reflect the brutality she had witnessed.

They fought to survive, even it was just to return to a cage and their vampire masters, it was life. How long had Faith been a prisoner? When Kakistos came after her, Buffy hadn't been in this world to help her so at some point he had caught her.

She remembered the last time she had seen Faith in her world. Not long after she had accidentally killed the deputy Mayor. The watchers council had come after her but with Buffy, Giles and the Scoobies' help, the council had been convinced to put her on probation that allowed continued training in Sunnydale.

There had been a lot of jealousy in the beginning. Faith of Buffy and she herself of Faith's closeness to her best friend. There were times when she felt like Buffy pushed her aside to spend more time with Faith and had only returned when there was trouble.

Buffy had moments when she showed the stereotypical selfishness of an only child. But Buffy was also very loving and didn't hesitate to save her friends when they needed her. Stereotypes weren't reliable anyway. She was an only child and for all the affection and attention she got she was thought of more like a non-only child.

Scolding herself for letting her mind roam, she glanced past the Master and saw Dani intently watching the fights, conferring with the Master on fighting skills. Seeing her child watching, Dani gave her a wink and went back to her conversation.

She didn't doubt that Dani loved her and that was why she felt guilty for her attraction to the caged slayer. Her past rivalry with Faith had begun easing and the two women were even cordial at times. Being around Faith usually triggered her babble mode and gave her butterflies in her stomach. The thoughts of being with a woman had never crossed her mind but now she realized she'd had a crush on the dark slayer.

Faith had been making an effort to be friendlier as well and on the night they had chased a wolf Oz, she showed how much she had changed.

Buffy had gone after one bad guy and she and Faith had chased down Oz. He had attacked Faith, who could have easily broken his neck but instead she held him off, trusting Willow to use the tranquilizer gun.

Unable to use the gun, Willow had grabbed Oz by the tail, yanking him backward and drawing his attention from the slayer. Faith had gotten the gun and put him to sleep. They had worked together and it was the first time Willow could remember Faith being that openly trusting.

There had been times after that when Faith would let down the tough act with the redhead.

Dani again interrupted her thoughts. "It's your girls' turn."

The smell of blood on the field finally gripped her and she motioned for a drink. The Master and Dani had answered their thirst during the matches but she had tried to resist. Swallowing the warm fluid down quickly, she handed the mug back and leaned forward in her seat.

Her face twitched and body sang as she absorbed the nourishment. The euphoria faded when the stadium speakers blared to life.

"Now for the event you've been waiting for. Presenting the undefeated champion for a year running. Pain cannot touch her, she does not know surrender. Will her match appear tonight? Will you witness another glorious victory or will she finally be defeated and bled?"

The roar of the crowd was becoming deafening and everyone rose to their feet. Willow scanned the field, searching for the participants.

"Honored Guests. Brothers and Sister….Kakistos' Faith!"

Movement from the far corner caught Willow's eye and she saw the lithe woman being led into the cage, a chain and collar adorning her neck, by a bulky vampire. He jerked the chain, forcing her to stumble and the crowd cheered more.

She was dressed in a pair of dark brown leather shorts and matching halter top, feet bare. Gauntlets were covering her wrists and knees, a leather and metal shoulder shield was placed over her left shoulder and a leather headband finished the ensemble. The outfit was more for looks than protection and left vital areas open for attack.

The trainer played to the crowd, marching Faith around and jerking the collar when she didn't move fast enough. He finally brought her to the center of the field and said something to her as he released the collar.

Willow's jaw was clenched as she watched the treatment. It was a struggle to prevent her face from appearing.

Seeing the reaction, the Master asked, "Why her, child?"

Dani started to speak but he held up his hand for silence. "All you have to do is look at her." Willow began. "Beautiful, strong, a challenge to be won and claimed."

He looked at the dark warrior, who was crouched and holding her place. He turned to his grandchild, the introduction of the challenger being ignored. "I think you may be too late to claim her."

Willow smiled, her eyes never leaving the woman. "She's controlled not broken, not tamed. That's different. Can you not feel it? It's like a volcano."

The Sire watched her child. The girls' instincts were on target and although she might need help, she had no doubt Willow could harness her. Feeling the Masters' pride in her child made her smile.

"Kakistos will be in no hurry to part with his champion."

Now Dani did speak up. "She's worked hard, Daddy and she's never asked for anything. Let her have this pet, please."

"Actually," Willow said embarrassed but with respect. "I was thinking more along the line of a servant and bodyguard, like Jacob is for you. We already know she's got great fighting skills and would be an asset to the family."

"Your tastes run as dangerous as your Sire's. But like her, you also have good taste."

A horn sounded and the two fighters started circling one another. Her opponent was a human male, bald, square, flat face and a body that could be mistaken for a semi truck. He towered over her but she matched him step for step as they each looked for an opening.

"She'll be expensive." The Master said.

Willow looked at him, eyes wide and begging. "Will you show me how to bargain Grandsire?"

The hulking challenger lunged at the dark slayer. Her movements were fluid as she side stepped, twisted and turned as he tumbled past her. Jumping into the air, she delivered a strong foot to her opponent's kidneys. The challenger landed with a thud, groaning in pain but trying to stand up.

Spotting one of Kaistos' staff, the Master motioned him over. "Tell your employer, I'd like to do business after the match."

The servant nodded and vanished. Willow refrained from hugging him but smiled brightly reflecting all her thanks. Turning their attention back to the match, Willow watched in nervous terror as with only minor injuries, Faith maintained her title.

"Absolutely not." Kakistos replied with disbelief.

The Master leaned back in his chair unfazed by the hostile reaction. "I do love negotiations."

Sitting on their respective sides of the Master, the two redheads watched as he displayed his talent.

"There are no negotiations. She is not for sale, at any price."

Clicking his tongue, the Master steepled his fingers. "Going back on your word? A serious violation of our code my friend. This could affect how welcome you are in other towns."

Kakistos stopped pacing. "You wouldn't. And what word am I going back on?"

Willow noted that the smile on the Master's face resembled a snarl. "Of course I would. You advertise that you buy, sell and trade with no exceptions. It's your claim and you must abide by it. I'm offering to negotiate a fair price for her."

"Do you have any idea how much I make on her. You can't compensate that. Be reasonable, Mastrovic."

The title surprised both women. Wondering if it was his true name and if that meant that Kakistos was as old as he was.

"I have twenty-five others available for sell. Pick one out and I'll give it to you."

"How kind. I'm touched that you're willing to give me your seconds and leftovers. What an honor you give me."

The tension meter went into the red zone and Kakistos began to realize he was on the losing side of the argument. "I would never insult you like that. I'm trying to explain what I'd be losing. She couldn't make it without me."

"She's been your champion for over a year. We both know that no matter how good they are, the average life of a Gladiator is about a year. Your girls' living on borrowed time. Retire her while she's still on top."

"Mastrovic…"

The Master held up his hand. "Enough of this, I'm getting bored. I want the girl. You name a fair price or I take her as tribute."

No longer was this about Willow's want of the girl. Both twins could read what was going on. The Master was going to acquire the girl no matter the cost, simply because Kakistos didn't want to part with her. If he could humiliate him in the bargain, all the better.

Kakistos stared at the old vampire. Tribute was an old law on the books, in which another vampire paid tribute to go through or reside in another vampire's land. The Master was the authority for now and to be on his bad side was never healthy. He had called up the old law leaving Kakistos no choice. Take his offer and lose future profit or lose the girl and his reputation. "May I at least use her for the fights tonight?"

As one, the Master and his girls stood up, ready to leave. "I think not. I worry something might happen to her. And rest assured if it does, there will be hell to pay. I expect her delivered to the mansion outside of town before the sun sets tonight. I'll send your payment by messenger."

They left the room and moved down the hall. The sound of breaking glass and wood floated like music on the air.

With Willow making such good progress, the Master had called Dani back to duty as his right-hand and soldier. She had already gone when Willow woke that evening.

Anxious to check on Faith's arrival, she rapidly dressed and went downstairs in search of Jacob. She found him in the kitchen preparing her breakfast tray. It was a daily mundane task but she sensed immediately that something was wrong.

"Evening Jacob." She said upon entering the kitchen. "I was expecting a delivery…"

"Yes miss." He said handing her the blood and brandy mixture. "They took her downstairs to the playroom about an hour ago."

She stopped short of finishing the drink. "Playroom? Why wasn't she brought upstairs?"

The man was frowning, afraid he was going to anger the Mistress. "They said they were following your instructions. They carried her…."

"Carried her?" Willow repeated. Needing nothing further, she left the kitchen heading for the metal and wooden door that led downstairs.

Upon descending the 15 steps, it opened into a full basement that had been converted to BDSM heaven. Cages, crosses, spanking benches and other implements of pain and pleasure filled the room. One could play or observe and off to the side were three more private rooms. One room was home to a sex swing and hammock. The other had an examination table and the third housed a king-sized bed complete with chains.

Dani had shown her the room after her first couple of months here and introduced her to some different forms of play. Some were enjoyable but Dani enjoyed it much more than she did.

She smelled the blood at once and made a beeline for the third room. The deliverymen had lit lamps and candles to illuminate the room but Willow didn't need them to see what was awaiting her.

On her stomach, nude and spread eagle, the dark champion was chained in place. Pale olive skin revealed muscles and sinew stretched to the limits. Bruises, cuts and drying blood punctuated her back, arms and thighs.

"No." She sighed under her breath and approached the figure. Only half of the woman's face was visible but the bruises she saw were not from her earlier fight. The fingers of her left hand were swollen and discolored signaling the fresh break

Snapping out of her stupor, Willow leapt over to the bed and eased down to stretch out beside the woman. Softly, she stroked the dark hair but even that caused the younger woman to flinch. "Faith?"

Struggling, she managed to open one brown eye, trying to focus and expecting more beatings.

"Oh Faith." The woman was shivering slightly and Willow got up, yanked the cover from the top of the bed and wrapped it around her. She was torn between wanting to cry and the desire to hunt down and destroy the cloven hoofed bastard.

Grasping the cold manacles, she tried to force them open but the locks held tight. "Jacob." She called, trying to keep from frightening the woman any more.

He appeared almost instantly. "I'm sorry Miss I didn't know what to do. It wasn't this bad when they brought her in."

"Where's the key?"

Looking down embarrassed, his voice sounded as if he were ready to cry as well. "They…they...said…they…put it...inside her."

Looking down she could see blood seeping through the cover where the woman's legs were. "Get a doctor here now Jacob. I'm taking her upstairs."

"Yes miss. Do you need my help…." He stopped when she turned to face him, her game face in place.

Willow turned back and grabbed the manacle snapping like a pencil. "No, I'm fine, but please hurry."

He could hear the other manacles being destroyed as he rushed upstairs and called the only doctor he trusted.

Faith flinched as the sound of each manacle being opened. Kneeling on the bed, Willow rolled Faith toward her and pulled the slim body into her arms. The dark slayer cried out once. "I'm sorry." Willow shushed and pulled the sheet over closer to cover Faith's front as well.

Turning she started up the steps, trying not to jostle her cargo. The grunt and stiffening was barely perceptible but Willow picked it up. "I'll try to be as gentle as possible but you shout if I hurt you, okay?"

"Yes Master." She muttered through chattering teeth.

She wanted to explain she wasn't a Master but the only thing that mattered now was getting the woman upstairs and the doctor here.

Moving slowly, Willow left the basement and started up the steps, Jacob on her heels with towels, sheets and bandages.

"The doctor is on the way." He informed as they entered the bedroom.

"Good. Would you start a hot bath. I want to clean her up and get her warm. Maybe some tea and soup as well."

He vanished into the bathroom that separated the two bedrooms. Within seconds, Willow heard water running. She sat on the side of the bed, holding the slayer close. "My name is Willow and no one will hurt you here. You're safe now. Kakistos is gone."

Faith's voice was faint and pained. "I am Kakistos' Faith. I am his to use as he wishes."

Willow firmly urged her chin to face her. "No. Not anymore. You're Faith, one day Vampire Slayer."

There was an increase in breathing and heartbeat. Then the girl struggled to become more aware. All were signs that Willow had scored a direct hit.

Part 7
Bloom

Faith managed to conceal any outward signs but her inner self was screaming in alarm. 'How?' She asked herself. Only Kakistos knew that she was a potential Slayer and even he didn't know all the details.

Jacob reentered the room. "I've started a bath Miss. I can bring up some soup and tea if you like?"

Willow stood up, still cradling Faith protectively, and walked to the bathroom door. "That would be good. And please bring up the doctor as soon as he arrives."

He nodded and exited the room.

The pain coursing through Faith's body was largely responsible for the confusion over her present situation. But there was no explanation for the vampire in whose arms she rested and was held firmly.

The demon seemed concerned about her and even to know something about her heritage. Faith knew about vampires and had seen the carnage left in their wake. In her mind the only good vampire was a pile of dust and as much as she hated to admit it, right now she wasn't able to fight.

Shivering, she was carried into the warm and steamy bathroom. In the center of the marble room, a tub big enough for three was filled with hot steamy water and soft scented bubbles.

Faith couldn't remember the last time she'd had a bath. During her time with Kakistos a warm shower was considered a luxury. Most of the time she got a hose and brush after her fights or before entertaining Kakistos and his guests. The hot tub seemed almost like a mirage or dream and it left her wondering what this bloodsucker was up to.

Willow gently set her on the tub and kneeled next to her. "Would you like some privacy for your bath or do you need some help?"

Now she knew something was up and Faith cocked her eyebrow. She hadn't been left alone since her capture, even during her sleep, she had been watched. Now she was faced with privacy, a hot bath and a way too human vampire. She decided that during her fight or the beating that followed it, she must have taken a blow to the head. If not, maybe Kakistos had finally managed to push her over the edge of sanity.

Sensing the churning emotions and the grim face, Willow voiced the slayer's thoughts. "You don't trust me and wonder what I'm up to. I hope to earn your trust and prove my sincerity. I've been a vampire less than a year and my Sire left my soul intact."

She received a frown of disbelief and slight snarl. "Okie dokie." She smiled and stood up. "It's a long story and if you're interested, I'll share it with you. Right now we need to take care of you and I want you to understand that you're safe here."

Turning to look at the alluring tub, Faith was seized by a wave of dizziness. Starting to sway, Willow was there to steady her before she tumbled in. Once she was reasonably secure, Willow helped her sit down in the water.

"You just soak for a bit. I'll be outside so if you need anything or my help just call. The doctor is coming to check you out and I know you need to rest. Slayer healing is good but you're very weak and I don't want to take any chances." Before she left, Willow made certain that soap, shampoo, sponges and towels were within reach of her guest.

Left alone, Faith was tense and wary. This morning she had been in a cage and later was receiving a vigorous beating from her trainer for some unknown offense. Now she was in a wonderfully relaxing tub, being tended to by a vampire.

Kakistos had thought that he had broken her, taken away who and what she really was. What he didn't know was that she had been exposed to monsters as she was growing up. Human monsters that taught you to be strong and tough because showing anything else resulted in pain, beatings or worse. She had learned to never show pain or fear because the monsters fed off of it. It had been necessary to hide that person far away from Kakistos' grasp.

There were times she doubted that person still existed and it might take a while to uncover her from the depth she had hidden. In the meantime if this crazy vamp wanted to nurse her back to health then so be it. "Vampire with a soul?" She chuckled. "Yeah, right." With that, she ducked her head under the water.

Willow had gotten the bed ready, spoken to Jacob and was now pacing. She wanted to allow Faith privacy but the more time that passed the more she worried she became.

The sounds of splashing water, a dull thud and soft groan decided it and she knocked on the door before easing in. Water and bubbles were puddled on the floor and dripping from the tub. Faith's body was twisted, her face etched in discomfort.

"Are you alright?"

Instantly she prepared for punishment. "I'm sorry Mistress. I was trying to reach my back and slipped. I'll clean it up."

Willow walked into the room and came to rest next to the bathtub. She looked down at the shaking girl and held out her hand.

Understanding, Faith quickly handed the sponge over to the small hand beside her. She tensed up, trying to prepare for whatever punishment was coming.

Grabbing a towel with her free hand, Willow dried the ledge of the tub then dropped the towel to the floor where it could begin to soak up the spill. Taking a seat, she dipped the sponge into the warm, soapy water and brought it out, squeezing its contents over broad stiff shoulders.

Faith remained in her tight posture, waiting for the slap; punch or dunking her punishment would entail. What came in its place was a gentle hand washing her back.

"You should have called." Willow scolded without any menace. "When the doctor has checked you out and you feel up to it, you can have as many baths as you like. Course then you'll be all pruney but that's up to you. That excuse for a life Kakistos gave you is over. I hope one day you'll consider this home."

Faith remained silent but Willow felt a tiny bit of the tension melt away from the woman. Her vampire hearing picked up Jacob entering the bedroom. "If you're done, I think Jacob has brought you something to eat."

No way was she going to allow the vampire to see how truly weak she was. Grabbing the edges of the tub, Faith tried to lift herself out but slipped back down. On her second attempt, Willow saw the determination on her face. Her muscular arms quivered as she rose up but she was successful if wobbly at getting out of the tub.

Willow held a towel out and averted her eyes, keeping her face neutral. Faith was only skin and bones, covered with the bruises and scars but still the beauty was visible. Turning away, she let Faith finish drying herself then handed her a soft cotton nightgown. The dark slayer took a minute to smell the clean gown and touch her face with the softness. After she was dressed, she ran a brush through dark brown hair and reluctantly asked for Willow's help.

Faith could smell the soup before they even left the bathroom. Her mouth watered and stomach rumbled in agreement, a fact Willow didn't miss.

In a matter of minutes, Faith was tucked into a king sized bed and Jacob had placed a tray across her lap. A bowl of steaming vegetable soup and the supplies for tea topped the tray. Faith looked at the food, licking her lips, then up to Willow.

It took a moment for Willow to realize that she was awaiting permission to eat and knowing the girl would starve with food in front of her, unless given the okay flared her temper. "Dig in Faith. There's plenty more when you want it."

The doorbell sounded and before its chimes had stopped, the soup was gone. "Must be the doctor." Jacob stated and turned to fetch their visitor.

"Great. I think Faith might still be hungry. Perhaps something a little more solid."

The kindly older man offered her a warm smile and nodded. Faith watched him leave, wondering if he was friend or foe.

When the doctor arrived, Willow was put at ease to discover it was a woman and she bore a striking resemblance to Jacob and his wife. The woman was confident, headstrong and made no attempt to conceal her contempt for the red head.

Willow's main concern was Faith and that she was well cared for and felt comfortable with the doctor. After their initial meeting, she felt certain the doctor was competent and Faith was at ease with her. She allowed the newcomer to exile she and Jacob from the room while she examined her patient.

"Forgive her rudeness, Miss." Jacob apologized once they were alone.

Willow would never get used to the hatred and disgust some mortals held for her kind. It reminded her of the racism in her world and the assumption that all were alike and evil. Knowing what she did about vampires and now being on the other side of the fence gave her a whole new understanding. "We both know she's probably more than justified. Your daughter?"

His face lit up and there was no denying he was the proud Papa. "Yes. My oldest. She works at the hospital and sees a lot. Sometimes too much."

During the last six months she and Jacob had talked quite a bit and were to the point he was more relaxed and friendly with her. She had even invited he and his wife over for dinner to show her that not all were monsters. With some effort she had convinced her Sire to allow him more time to see his family. In his absence she utilized her magic and two well- trained Mastiffs to protect them.

Her memory latched onto something his wife had said the night she visited about one of their children working too much to cover the loss of a fiancé. Now she could pick up on what he was trying to keep from her.

"She has every right to feel the way she does, I'm sure." Willow said softly.

Her tone and statement made him feel uncomfortable. "I try to tell her that not all are evil, just like mortals."

Their conversation died away and after a few minutes of pacing, he suggested she go downstairs to work until the doctor was finished. Making her a promise to call her as soon as she could see the girl, he watched her rush downstairs to get as much done as she could.

Certain she was gone and out of earshot, he lightly knocked on the door. His daughter's response was cold. "We're not done yet."

"It's me." He identified.

The hard edge had vanished. "Okay." He opened the door and went in. Blonde hair, blue eyes with a larger body frame, his daughter sat on the bed beside her patient a complete contrast to the dark slayer.

"How's the patient, Doctor?" He moved up behind his daughter and again offered Faith a warm smile.

"Lucky to be alive. Not just from continual abuse but the newest injuries. Her ribs are cracked, she has contusions, internal damage and bleeding. Hell of a boss you got there Pop."

She was startled by the anger that appeared on her father's face. "You have no right to say that, young lady. The Miss didn't do this to the girl. She took her away from the people that hurt her."

"She hasn't hurt me." Faith added. "Yet."

His scolding look landed on her. "And she won't."

"Pop, I know you have to act like you like them and I hate that you do it just to keep us safe but you can't defend them after what they've done and if…"

"Ronnie." He called her down and stepped closer. "I do like Miss Willow. Since she came here things have changed and gotten better. She goes out of her way to prevent any harm to humans. She is not responsible for what happened to Jude and I expect you to show her the same respect you would want." He turned back to Faith. "And that goes for you too. I saw her face when she found you hurt."

With his piece said, warmth returned to his fatherly features. "Now, are you still hungry Faith?"

Seeing her hesitate Ronnie reassured her. "Don't worry Faith. His bark is much worse than his bite."

"Yes Sir and thirsty."

"Is it okay to tell Miss Willow she can come up now?"

With a scowl, Ronnie nodded. "If you must."

"Don't make me get your mother on you." He chided.

The doctor rolled her eyes. "Yeah, like mom would side with a fanger."

Jacob smiled broadly. "Actually she would. Your mother has met the Miss and they got along very well. Even more so because she reminds me of important dates." With that, he left the two women staring in his wake.

A soft rap came on the door and then it opened slowly and Willow entered when invited.

Faith was reclining in the bed, eyes heavy with exhaustion. The doctor was rummaging through her bag in search of something. "What can I do to help doctor?"

"Miss Rosenberg," Ronnie began, trying to sound more civil.

"Willow, please." The red head smiled shyly.

"Willow, Faith's injuries are multiple but none are life threatening. Whoever did this stopped short of that. The most serious injury was the internal bleeding from the penetration of a foreign object in the vaginal area. She will need some rest and antibiotics to cull any infection. No lifting or strenuous activity, especially sexual."

"That won't be a problem." Willow firmly informed her. She turned away from Faith when she felt her face begin to twitch. "Bastard." She mumbled and closed her eyes to control her temper.

The two women were watching her closely when she turned back to them, her voice tinged with obvious anger. "Was it …a…key?"

The dark Slayer clenched her jaw and looked downward, embarrassed. Willow pushed on. "Did they…was she…?"

Ronnie caught on to her question. "No. There was no sign of any other type of violation." She was surprised when Willow sighed in relief and said, "Thank goodness."

"She's also dehydrated and malnourished. Almost dangerously so." Ronnie finished.

Another knock at the door and Jacob entered carrying a tray. The smell of cookies filled the room and all three women sat up straighter. He showed them the cookie-laden platter. "Cookies and milk anyone?"

A large smile appeared on Willow's face. "I think we can get those problems taken care of rather quickly with Jacob around." They all partook of the treat but made certain Faith consumed as much as she wanted.

When she was full, she started sliding lower in the bed. It was like floating on a cloud after spending much of her sleeping time the last year on floors or hard cots. Fluffy pillows swallowed her and she slightly smiled.

"You sure you don't want anything for pain?" Ronnie asked one last time.

"I'm 5 x 5 Doc."

"I'll order your meds in town and have them delivered. The antibiotic booster shot I gave you will do until then." Ronnie glanced at her watch; surprised it was already ten o'clock. "If there are any problems or her fever spikes call me right away."

"I'm going into town doctor." Willow stated. "Can I offer you a ride and pick up her medicine?"

"I've got my car, but sure, you can pick them up. I would like to come back tomorrow and check on her, see how she's healing."

"Of course. You're welcome here anytime. I make certain the place is safe and people friendly."

'Maybe her father was right about this one', she thought to herself. "I'll see you tomorrow then."

Looking to her guest to see if she wanted anything from town, Willow found Faith drifting off to much needed sleep. "After we leave, make sure to release the dogs, Jacob."

Ronnie felt the familiar anger bubbling up at the vampire and herself for being to gullible. She could tell her father recognized it as well but it didn't stop her from stating her true feelings on the matter. "Wouldn't chaining her up be easier?"

Knowing Jacob was about to scold the girl, Willow held up her hand for silence. Her face remained calm and friendly as she spoke. "The dogs are not to keep her in but to keep intruders out. I want her to be safe and the dogs protect those that live here. Chains and slaves are not welcome in my home. Now, if you'll lead the way, I'll follow you to the pharmacy."

Embarrassed, the doctor nodded.

From the moment she entered the Bronze he could sense her rage. The fact that it was more intense and focused clued him in that his visitor was not his favorite but his grandchild.

Once he was finished with his current business, he had her escorted in. Watching her stalk in, vampire face on, eyes a brilliant gold, he sensed how far along she had come and it made him proud. Now to just harness that power and focus it to his benefit would allow him to begin expanding his rule.

"Forgive my intrusion, my Master."

He waved his hand. "Such formalities? You are the child of my favorite and my grandchild. What has happened? I didn't expect to see you for a few days while you played with your new pet. What has you so troubled?"

"My apologies grandsire. I seek to resolve an insult to our family. Kakistos. I want him."

The Master turned, his own anger sparked. To openly defy their deal would call for immediate reprisal and Willow's anxious behavior to be the one who dealt it pleased him. "The girl was not delivered?"

She knew she had to play this a certain way. On the drive over, she had worked out all the details of the conversation and was ready to begin. "She was delivered. Her condition was an insult to you and our family."

Taking her hand, he led her over to the settee and both sat down. "Tell me."

After a deep breath, Willow related the details of the evening, along with her own views and colorful phrases to describe their enemy and how he should be punished. She finished with, "Please my Master, my Grandsire. Let me teach this dog the lesson for those who disrespect you and yours. I'll make him an example to others."

"Are you angry because of the insult or because he hurt your new pet?"

"Both."

He admired her honesty and knew that Kakistos must be called to task for such a blatant insult but it would have to be handled delicately and within society rules. Perhaps his souled grandchild was the one for the job. "As long as he is in town we cannot touch him. He is a guest here and under my protection."

Her face fell, until he continued. "Once he leaves town though, anything could happen. Bandits, losing betters, why even some of his own people or stable might turn on him for revenge. Of course something like that would never happen near Sunnydale."

Willow caught on fast. "Of course not. I'm sure that he will have to travel through some rough places though."

"And if word got out that he had not dealt with some fairly or honestly…"

"He'd make enemies."

The Master reached out and patted her cheek. "He has one more night here before moving on. He'll be expecting trouble but we'll disappoint him for now. Be thinking of some ideas and come see me in a week."

She couldn't help it and hugged him. "Thank you Grandsire."

"Thank me by doing a good job."

"Done." As her face returned to normal, her fangs were still visible in her smile.

It was close to dawn before Willow returned to the mansion. Dani was anxiously awaiting her child as Jacob had informed her of the evening's events.

Her Sire greeted her with a tight hug as she came in and it dawned on Willow that she had really needed that comfort. "Come upstairs. We should talk and you need to get some rest."

Willow pulled away. "I should keep an eye on Faith. She might be scared when she wakes up or start running a fever."

"Or try to escape." Dani added.

Jacob approached carrying drinks for his Mistress'. "I'll keep an eye on the girl."

"Today's your day off. I can't ask you to…"

"You didn't ask Miss Willow." He said respectfully but with a glint in his eye. "I really don't mind and the Mistress is right, you do need to rest."

Willow sighed. "I'll make it up to you Jacob."

"No need. Just rest well Miss, Mistress."

Dani sipped her drink watching the servant leave. "He's getting down right cheeky."

Willow jumped to his defense. "It's my fault. I encourage him to speak up."

One more drink and Dani set the empty goblet down. Her child's sense of duty to those around her was another reason she so loved her. "I kinda like it." She smiled.

Winking, Willow returned her goblet to the table as well. "Thanks."

The women went upstairs and Willow insisted they check on the girl. Faith was tucked in tightly, softly snoring. Her face was peaceful and Willow couldn't remember ever seeing that look or how young she really was. She had just undertaken a huge responsibility but knew someone had to do it and it was what a good Scooby would do.

"What about locking the doors?" Dani suggested. "I know how you feel about restraints but I don't want to be dusted in my sleep."

"It's important that she learn not all of us are evil. I want to earn her trust and that won't happen with locked doors and chains."

"You knew her in your world, didn't you?"

Willow looked down. "I'm sorry, I should have told you."

Dani kissed her. "Come my girl. It's time to rest." Once in bed the two cuddled up tightly and fell into a deep sleep.

Faith only opened her eyes after she knew they were gone. She wasn't sure what she had just heard but things just seemed to keep getting more and more interesting. It might not be a bad idea to stick around for awhile and see where the ride went.

Faith's sleeping schedule matched the vampires so when Jacob brought their breakfast up, he brought enough for her as well. If her appetite was any indication she was feeling better.

Dani and Willow had discussed the meeting with the Master and Willow's plans for Faith. Dani agreed with allowing Jacob to begin the girl's training and then she had rushed off to work.

The Master had been generous and given Willow a few weeks off to spend with her new pet and after getting dressed she decided to check in on the girl.

Faith was working on seconds of breakfast when she heard a soft knock at the door. "Yes?" She called out.

Willow eased in, a large steaming cup of mocha in her hand. "Can we talk?"

Faith had already stopped eating and was looking down. "Yes Mistress."

The title was something she still wasn't used to or liked. She walked across the room and sat down in the chair beside the bed. "Eat, before it gets cold. And we really don't need the Mistress stuff here; I'm just Willow. When there are others around we can go with the Mistress thing but only then. Okay?"

"Yes Mi…Willow." She accepted and continued on her bacon and eggs.

The situation was awkward and Willow was unsure of how to proceed. "Is there anything special you want to eat or drink? Or maybe something else you'd like?"

Faith hesitated. Someone asking her what she wanted was unfamiliar but she could tell that the voice of the red head was sincere. "The cookies were good." She whispered between bites.

'Score one for me', Willow thought to herself. "He is a wonderful cook and I'll let him know his cookies are in demand." Ready to try the next step she said, "You can get up and start moving around anytime you feel up to it. The sooner the better."

The fork stopped before it reached the slayer's mouth, then returned to the plate. Faith's training kept her from raising her voice or her eyes to her new owner. "What are you going to do to me? I am yours to do with as you please, but I…."

"Whoa." Willow stopped her right there. "First of all, you don't belong to me. I simply want you to get better as soon as possible because when I go after Kakistos, I thought you might want to come along."

Her head craned to the side. "What?"

"Kakistos is going die for what he did, that I promise you. Then my plan is to have Jacob train you as my personal servant while I try to find a Watcher I know and hook you up with him."

Faith raised her head higher. "You what when with who where?"

Willow smiled, mentally adding another point to her score. "I thought that might get your attention. Please look at me Faith, you won't be punished."

She did as asked but still reluctant to meet the red heads eyes. "What you said about Master Kakistos? Are you really going to…"

"Kill him?" Willow stepped in. "I prefer to think of it as animal control." Seeing her humor wasn't appreciated she became serious. "He is no longer your master, owner, controller or has any kind of power over you. You no longer have a master or mistress. As for that big…booger, yes I intend to destroy him. Does that bother you? He won't be the first vamp I've dusted."

Her voice was softer than Willow ever could have imagined. "Why Mi…Willow? Why are you doing this?"

Taking a deep drink of her mocha, she was hesitant to say anything. In truth she had surprised herself with the burning need and desire to destroy the filthy creature. More so was the reason why she wanted him to suffer. "He hurt you."

Faith sat up a bit straighter. "He insulted you by delivering damaged goods. I know that I am nothing but a plaything or meal to you, to any of you."

"That's him talking."

Punishment or not, she couldn't hold it in any longer. The pent up power of a year's torture was about to erupt. Tossing the tray in the floor, she sat up to her knees, ignoring the pain that ran through her. "I don't know what you're up to but I'm tired of games. Drain me or fuck me but get it over with now!"

Willow was caught off guard by the intensity of the girl. This was the Faith that she knew and she wondered if it was due to Kakistos or from a lifetime of experience.

"Okay." She said, feeling her own frustration from the last six months emerging. "I have no intention of hurting you. I only wanted to help you, not use you the way others have. Maybe I haven't explained myself very well. I'll put it in terms even a lowly mortal can understand."

She stood up, tossed her mug on the floor and seized the chair she had been sitting in. Firmly grabbing one of the legs, she snapped it off like a twig and holding onto it, tossed the ruined chair across the room.

Snatching Faith's wrist, she slammed the chair leg in the woman's palm, jagged point out. With her other hand, she pulled open the top of her blouse, buttons flying everywhere, and positioned herself with the stake pressing against her heart.

"There." She snarled, her face changing and eyes glowing. "Dust me! You're a slayer in training, do your job. Come on Faith, what are you waiting for?"

The stunned slayer watched as the vampire pushed on the stake hard enough to break flesh, a few pearls of blood appearing against the porcelain skin. As the situation began to spin out of control, Faith tried to pull the makeshift stake away but Willow maintained a firm grip on her wrist.

Using her mending broken hand, she braced Willow from coming any closer. Bringing up strong legs, she used them to flip the red head over her and onto the bed, trying to get a better position. The maneuver worked somewhat as she found herself lying across Willow, wrestling for possession of the stake.

"Stop!" A man's voice rang out.

Misunderstanding what he was seeing, Jacob rushed across the room, aiming to tackle Faith off the struggling vampire. He skidded to a stop when her heard Willow say, "Leave her alone Jacob."

Willow locked her eyes with dark ones. "Go ahead Faith. I deserve it. I'm just as tired of this game as you are. I've had to kill to feed and keep up this charade but there's no excuse for what I did to him. I killed Oz because I couldn't control my hunger."

Faith was completely confused now but struggled to keep control of the stake. Jacob moved closer and saw tears running down Willow's ridged face. "Please don't hurt her." He begged the slayer.

"Pop?" Another voice joined in. Returning to check on her patient, Ronnie had stumbled onto the scene and was just as confused as everyone else.

"Do it Faith. Buffy's gone so if I'm to be dusted, I want you to do it." Willow sobbed. She turned her head to see Jacob. "Make sure she has anything she needs to get away and be free."

Feeling her body losing ground, Faith looked over her shoulder. "Some help here please?"

Father and daughter, realized at the same time that Faith was trying to stop the stake from hitting its mark not force it in. Ronnie snapped into action first. She set her bag on the floor, went through it and a minute later had a syringe ready.

Seeing it and knowing his daughter, Jacob panicked. "Ronnie, no!"

"Sedative, Pop." She reassured him. Moving to help, all three were able to hold Willow down while Ronnie injected her with the sodium pentathol.

As the drug took effect, her face returned to normal and Faith was able to pry the weapon from her hands. Jacob sat down and pulled his friend into his lap and tried to soothe her. "Everything will be fine, Willow."

Her face showed him her childlike sorrow. "I didn't mean to hurt him. I loved him. Do you think he knows that Jacob? That it was an accident and I loved him?"

He brushed the hair from her face. "Yes, Miss Willow. I'm sure he forgives you."

"I wanted to help Dani. She was so alone and I didn't want that for her. I wanted her to have the love and friendship I had." Her eyes were getting heavy now and her words were running together. "She should…have killed me."

The words and confession they had just heard shook all three mortals. Faith flopped back into the bed and Ronnie began checking her out for any reinjuries.

Jacob continued to hold the small woman, rocking her slightly. He wiped the tears from her face. "What the hell happened?"

Her Sire had known instantly something was wrong but it had been awhile before she could break free and return home. The slamming of the door signaled her return. Her voice was bordering on panic. "Jacob?"

Appearing from the den, Jacob saw her fear and quickly reassured her. "She's okay, Mistress."

His tone and body language told her that wasn't completely the truth. "Tell me."

When her talk with Jacob was finished, Dani leapt up the steps and to the bedroom. She opened the door and found Faith sitting on the side of the bed, watching over the redhead with concern.

Hearing someone enter, the dark slayer turned and for the first time saw the Sire. She did a double take, before looking back into the face of the sleeping woman. Seconds ticked away as she simply looked back and forth between them.

The Sire walked over to the bed and reclined next to the sleeping girl. "I'm Danielle, Willow's Sire." Introduction over, she lightly kissed the sleepers forehead and wrapped her arms around her. "Why didn't you come to me? I never wanted to hurt you."

Faith slid off the bed. "I'll leave you alone. The Doc gave her some stuff that will keep her out for awhile but she's okay."

Dani's hand shot out and stopped short of capturing Faith's casted wrist. "Jacob told me what happened." Faith felt her fear notch up. She was the reason for the vampire's breakdown and would have to answer for it. She wasn't expecting what came next. "You had the opportunity to kill her and instead you kept her from hurting herself. I'm in your…. debt. Thank you."

"She saved my life." Faith offered. "Can I get you anything?"

Dani's attention was focused on her child and she mumbled, "We're fine, thank you." Not bothering to get undressed, Dani curled around her twin, hugging her tightly, almost desperately.

She no longer existed to the vampire so Faith left the room, giving them the alone time they obviously needed. Sniffing the air, she smiled and ventured downstairs to help Jacob with his baking.

Dani stayed home the next night and no one saw either vampire. Jacob brought nourishment up but left it outside the bedroom door. To keep their minds off things, Jacob began teaching Faith what her duties would include as a personal bodyguard.

The girl put all her effort into it but seemed distant. He knew she felt responsible for Willow's attempted suicide and when she asked him questions about the two women he shared what he knew in hopes it would offer her some relief.

The next night Dani reluctantly returned to work, but made both servants swear to keep an eye on Willow and notify her if anything happened. The dark slayer's healing powers were in full force but she still dealt with the broken wrist and internal injuries. She eagerly volunteered to take Willow's breakfast and check on the woman.

The sun had been down for an hour so Faith expected to find the vampire up and around. Instead Willow was still in bed, eyes open and staring at the ceiling. "Mis…Willow?" She called upon entering. "I brought you something to drink."

"Thanks," she responded, keeping her eyes up. Faith set the glass on the bedside table and was about to leave when she heard, "Are you all right?"

"I was going to ask you the same thing."

Tired, red eyes turned down and looked at the visitor. "I'm sorry Faith. I kinda lost it the other night."

Returning to the table, Faith picked up the glass and held it out to her. "No harm done. I think we needed to let off some steam. Hopefully we both feel better now."

Sitting up in the bed, she took the glass and tried a week smile. "Thanks."

"Are you up for some company?"

The smile became a little more pronounced. "Sure."

Faith waited until she was invited to sit down and let Willow take a few drinks before she asked, "So tell me about the Faith in your world."

Willow choked on her drink and eyes widened. "What?"

"I met Mistress Danielle and I was confused. I thought you were twins but she said she was your Sire. I asked Jacob for some details. I hope you don't mind."

"Uh…No. I would have answered them myself but went kinda crazy for awhile. What else did he tell you?"

"That you're not sisters but the same person from a different reality. That she turned you and you agreed to come to this world with her. That despite the legends and myths, you are a vampire with a soul. I'm still fuzzy on a few things though."

"So you believe me now? You seem to be taking the idea of alternate realities calmly."

Willow could still see and hear the doubt in the dark slayer as she answered; "I'm getting there. Tell me about your Faith. Are we much alike?"

Willow took a deep breath and pulled up the memories. "Your, her, your name is Faith Spencer from Boston." She began. "I don't know a whole lot of really personal details. She liked leather and …well ...was kinda on the skanky side. I do remember hearing you, her talk about your mother and her drinking problem. That she had a lot of different boyfriends and some weren't very nice to you. She got really hostile if her father was mentioned so I don't really know anything about him. I guess growing up she learned not to trust and that you had to be tough to survive. There were very few people she trusted but I got the feeling she and her watcher were close."

Willow stopped there when she saw how pale the slayer was. The girl was shaking slightly.

Faith was stunned. How could a total stranger, a vampire know what she did? "My watcher was the first person I could trust, could depend on and I let her down."

'So this is what the Twilight Zone feels like' Willow thought to herself. Apparently Both Faiths' did share the same history but was her watcher's fate the same as her Faith's? "Kakistos killed her?"

"There's no word for what her did to her." The girls trembling became more noticeable. "And I'm supposed to be this Chosen One and I couldn't stop him from…"

"The Faith in my reality got away and came to Sunnydale. She hooked up with Buffy and poof we had two slayers."

The fact that there were two instead of one Slayer didn't seem important to her. "I didn't run." Faith whispered. "I tried to fight. Paula told me to run. Those were her last words. I couldn't leave her and if I'd been a better student I could have saved her."

Willow rested her hand on the Slayer's pale leg. "You know that's not true. Rule number one of slaying, don't die. Your watcher knew that and trained you with the skills to survive. And even after everything that's happened in the last year, you have. Nothing would have made her more proud. Don't you see that Faith? She's still alive in you."

"I close my eyes sometimes and see what he did…. I miss her so much." Faith admitted, clenching her jaws to ward off tears.

Instinctively, Willow started to reach and embrace the girl, but stopped in fear of being punched. "May I?"

Frowning, Faith was confused for a moment. When she realized she was being offered comfort, it was almost a foreign concept to her. "It's okay?"

Willow nodded and in a few seconds a hesitant head came to rest on her shoulder. Slowly she brought her hand up and started stroking the dark hair. "I'm a hugger and cuddler so I'm afraid you might have to get used to this kind of treatment."

A chuckle against her shoulder made her smile. "I'd like, if it's okay with you, to have Jacob try to help me locate the Watcher I know from my world. He's really smart and nice and you need to continue your training so you'll be ready when your calling comes."

Not eager to leave the safety she had found, Faith sat up. "You were serious about that? A vampire helping the Slayer?"

"In my reality the Slayer, Buffy, is my best friend. Faith is my friend as well and we have a whole Scooby gang. When I met Buffy, I spent three years helping her fight the forces of darkness and big bads. I know how important the Slayer is and that some vamps or demons need to go down. I may be a vampire but I want to remain a part of the fight."

"It's so much to handle."

"Tell me about it. I've been trying to juggle two lives for six months now."

A comfortable silence seeped in for a few minutes. Then Faith hedged ahead. "May I ask you a favor? For when you're better?"

"Sure."

Faith chewed her lip. "Could…we…go…out for a walk? Outside? You can leash me if you want."

It struck Willow as such an odd request, especially the leash thing until she remembered that Faith had spent the last year in cages or chains. She was willing to be put on a leash for the illusion of a free walk outdoors. Willow wanted to embrace her again but got a better idea. "We have over fifteen acres here with a lake, pool and wildlife garden. Go get dressed. I think some fresh air will do both of us some good."

Faith's eyes lit up. "Are you sure? I mean if you don't feel like it…"

"I'm fine. Are you up to it?"

Faith bounced off the bed and vanished in search of her clothes. Between Willow and Ronnie she had a couple of pairs of pants and a few shirts but they were only to do her until Willow could take the girl shopping.

Getting out of bed, Willow slipped on a pair of black jeans and T- shirt. Faith appeared soon after, wearing dark blue sweat pants and a black tank top. Willow realized that even if Faith wore a muumuu she would still be attractive. "You sure you feel up to this?"

"Please." Faith said and stepped to her, kneeled and presented her with a leather collar and leash.

Almost shocked beyond words, Willow stared at the offering. She shuddered to think of Kakistos putting the offensive item on Faiths lovely neck and treating her like an animal.

Faith held her position, waiting. Her heart fell slightly when Willow took the collar and leash from her hands until the redhead kneeled in front of her. Taking her hand, Willow pulled her up to her feet. "You see this?" She asked Faith, holding it for the girl to see.

Faith nodded and watched as the items were tossed into the ever- burning fireplace. She looked at Willow, completely surprised.

"You are not a slave or an animal, plaything or meal. You're Faith. My friend. Got it?"

She nodded again, squeezing the woman's hand to make sure she was real. Willow smiled when she felt the increased pressure. "Good. Now first we have to get the girls used to you and then we can explore." With that, she led the way down the stairs.

Hearing voices, Jacob met them at the staircase, happy to see both women up and around. "Good evening Ladies. Feeling better?"

Willow walked up to Jacob, embraced him and placed a kiss on his cheek. "Yes, thank you. And for the other night as well. It meant a lot to me."

He blushed red enough to match his tie. "I'm glad you're feeling better and that I could help Miss." He felt the need to change subject quickly. "The dogs are out Miss. Should I put them up?"

"No thank you. But I do need to speak to you when we get back."

"I'll be waiting."

She turned to an almost bouncing Faith. "Let's go."

Down the hallway, they passed through the double glass doors into the darkness. The air was calm and warm and mixed with Faith's excitement it caused her skin to goosebump. Even Willow smiled as the sweet smells and brightness of night greeted her. Her skin could feel every puff of wind or disturbance in the air and it was when she had these sensations she appreciated being a vampire.

Senses on full, she sensed movement to her left before hearing a low rumble. Faith turned towards her but froze when Willow instructed her to "stand still."

Another vibrating rumble came from the right. Faith's building concern was tangible and Willow knew they could feel it as well. "Where are my girls?"

Shadows moved towards them and Faith spotted two very large Mastiffs stalking slowly towards them. Their coats were so shiny and black they almost looked blue. Subdued hues of brown colored their legs and faces. Muscle moved smoothly with each step they took and as they kept their black eyes on her, she could see the intelligence reflected there.

Willow kneeled. "There they are." The dogs were wary of Faith and veered away from her to settle in front of the redhead. She began scratching their heads and backs, mumbling baby words to them. The dogs reveled in the attention but didn't let down their guard against the Slayer. "Xena, Gabrielle, this is Faith. She's mommy's new friend. Faith, put your hand out."

Swallowing a ball of fear, she did as instructed and the dogs sniffed her hand. She had seen Kakistos and others use similar dogs to maim and kill fighters that had tried to run or committed other offenses. She knew how brutal they could be and summoned all her control to keep steady as the animals continued to sniff. She was startled when Willow took her hand and tugged so she would kneel next to her.

Almost eye to eye, the dogs came closer, giving her the once over and ready to defend their owner if necessary.

"Girls, this is Faith's home too. I need you to treat her and protect her like you do Dani, Jacob and I."

The dogs were watching and listening so intently, that Faith wondered if they could understand what the woman was saying to them. "Hello Ladies." She said softly.

Smelling their mistress on the newcomer and with a gentle nudge of her mental abilities, the dogs relaxed and accepted Faith as a member of the household. Smiling at them, she said, "Go ahead."

Faith didn't move when the dogs came closer and the next thing she new she was being licked and tasted by large pink tongues. With a sigh of contentment, Willow watched Faith pushed back onto her backside as the dogs welcomed her, acting like puppies instead of the warriors they were. She heard a soft giggle from Faith and it warmed her cold, unbeating heart.

Stepping away, she allowed them some play and bonding time before suggesting they continue their walk.

As they walked, the dogs vanished into the darkness but Willow knew they were nearby and keeping a protective eye on them.

Walking barefoot, a light sheen of dew soaked Faith's feet. She had been resistant to shoes and Willow figured it was something they could work on later. Right now she stayed quiet and let Faith take the lead.

As they progressed, Willow fell back, trying to allow Faith a sense of freedom but she would stop frequently and make sure Willow was close.

Faith's body language became more relaxed and signaled that she was feeling better and also ready for something else. "Faith?"

The Slayer stopped and turned to face the approaching redhead.

"You wanna race?"

Faith knew she couldn't have heard correctly. "What?"

"There's a lake through those trees." Willow pointed to a wooded patch of land. "First one to the lake, wins."

Excitement colored the girl's dark features and she struggled to conceal it. It was not a problem when doubt replaced it. "How do you know I won't run? Or that you won't set the dogs on me?"

"You're going to have to trust me Faith."

There was no way to explain it or any reason behind it, but after only three days she was beginning to feel safe. There had been no deceit on Willow's part and her concern was authentic. Kakistos had imprisoned her a year ago and now was the time to start breaking free of that bondage. "What does the winner get?"

"I don't know, a plate of cookies. We'll decide when we see who wins. Go!"

Faith burst into a run with Willow trailing only a few steps behind. Feeling the air rush past her and letting her muscles work like they hadn't in a long time made Faith feel like she was floating instead of running. She could hear the dogs keeping pace and poured everything into outrunning them.

It had been close but Willow's vampire speed and an injured Slayer had decided the winner. Again, Willow was pleased to hear the lilt of laughter in the girl's voice as they walked back to the mansion. She moved slower and occasionally clenched her jaw signaling she had overdone it but there was no way she was about to admit it.

Even knowing Faith was uncomfortable; she couldn't deny the girl the chance to play with the dogs again for a few more minutes before they went in.

Knowing Willow needed to speak with Jacob, Faith excused herself and went upstairs. "She's healing well." The older man observed.

"And becoming a little more trusting. I appreciate all your help and Ronnie's as well. Your daughter is a good doctor." Her voice dropped to a softer pitch and she leaned closer to Jacob. "I need your help in locating someone. It needs to be done quickly and quietly."

"Of course Miss." He frowned in answer.

"Do not put yourself in danger and if you aren't willing, just say so and I won't be angry. The man's name is Rupert Giles. Middle-aged British man and he used to be the librarian at the high school. I know he was in town seven months ago, but I don't know if he's still here or has moved on."

"What should I do if I find him? Set up a meeting, give him a message?"

"Tell him…you know where the next Slayer is and set up a meeting." Willow instructed as she fixed a tray for tea to take upstairs. "This has to be just between us Jacob. Not even Dani is to know. Faith's life depends on this and we have to find him."

He nodded. "I'll do my best and start right away."

Picking up the tray she rewarded him with a warm smile. "I know you will. Thanks."

Using her foot, Willow pushed the bedroom door open, keeping her eyes on the tray as she walked in. "How do you feel about shopping tomorrow? We need to get you some decent clothes and Jacob loves to shop…." She fell silent, the tray falling from her grasp and thunking to the floor.

Faith remained kneeling at the foot of the bed, completely nude, head down and hands behind her back in submission.

Willow's mouth hung open, unable to pull her eyes away from the vision before her. The Slayer's body was lean, lined with hard muscle and abs that were sculpted to perfection. Her breasts were not small or large but round, firm globes with dark succulent nipples that were beginning to peak. Scars dotted her entire body but it didn't diminish any of the natural beauty. A small amount of neatly trimmed curls were visible at the apex of her legs and led to things that made Willow blush just thinking about them.

Hearing the crash, Jacob started running up the stairs. "Miss Willow, are you alright? Is something wrong?"

"No, I'm fine." She called back even though she was anything but. "Just an accident. Goodnight Jacob."

She closed the door and licked her lips, trying to find her voice again. "Uh…Faith? What…you…lack of clothes…surprise…why?"

Faith kept her head bowed. "You won the race."

Willow shook her head. "Oh Faith." She walked over to the bed, trying to keep her eyes from returning to drink in more of Faith. "We need to talk." With that she grabbed a sheet and draped it around the girl. "But I need not so much skin showing."

Aiming to sit on the edge of the bed, Willow was so shaken, she missed, slid down and landed with a thud next to Faith.

The girl was quaking. "I displeased you?"

"No." Willow reassured her. "You just…surprised me. I didn't expect…don't expect anything like that from you. I just want your friendship."

The quaking was more pronounced now and she drew the sheet in tightly. "I'm sorry. It was expected…before with Kakistos."

Willow tried to focus on the conversation instead of the wonderful body hidden underneath the sheet. "I hope one day, you'll believe that I'm not like them."

Faith looked up, still hesitant to meet the glittering green eyes. "There were women as well as men. I thought...I'm sorry. You don't find me attractive."

'Not find her attractive!' Willow thought to herself. This dark beauty beside her that had been her first female crush, had made her insides tighten anytime the tough Slayer was around.

Willow turned to face the woman and put her finger under her chin, urging her eyes up. "You have no idea how beautiful you are." Faith's words repeated in her mind and she realized that the comment was directed to her and Faith was waiting for an answer. In her face was the disappointment she expected to receive.

The finger became a hand that caressed Faiths smooth cheek. "In my world I didn't realize I…liked girls. I did know that whenever my Faith was around, my palms sweated and words got jumbled. I know now that it was a crush but not then. Faith was my first crush on a woman. My first first crush was Xander but you, she was the first woman."

A glimmer of hope appeared in her dark eyes. That and the desire Willow saw caused a chill of want to course down her spine and into her nether regions. "For the last year, you've been a prisoner, a slave and taken forcibly and hurt. I need you to understand that you weren't brought here for that. As much as I'd like to…uh…get to know you better, I will not take you or have you thinking that's the only reason I'm nice to you. You're better than that. Do you understand?"

She sighed and nodded. Making sure the cover was wrapped tightly around her, she stood up. "May I sleep in here with you today. I'll sleep on the floor and not disturb you."

Did she not understand their conversation or was it something else. Willow suddenly became concerned. "Are you in pain? Lay down and I'll call Ronnie." She jumped to her feet, ready to find Jacob.

"No." Faith said firmly and tentatively touched Willows arm. "I'm okay, it's just that earlier…when we talked about my watcher, Paula. You made me feel safe. Paula used to stroke my hair like that too."

Contact. Faith had not received any gentle or sincere contact since her watcher's death. She only wanted comfort or physical contact without it being too physical. "Of course you can, but staying on the floor is…"

"What I want." Faith replied. "Please?"

Agreeing, they made a comfortable pallet next to the bed and after talking a bit more called it a night.

Several hours later, Willow felt movement in the bed. Her first thought was that Dani was home until a warm body curled into her back. Cutting her eyes down, she saw the pallet empty.

Lying still, she let the girl get comfortable and within minutes she could hear Faith's soft snores. So much like her Faith yet so different. She couldn't imagine the things she had endured, couldn't imagine not having any affection from anyone. Easily, she let her arm drift back and drape over the Slayer's hip. Soon her snores joined the Slayer's.

When Willow awoke the next morning, she was alone and Faith had returned to her pallet. Later Jacob took Faith shopping and Willow accompanied Dani to the Master's lair for a meeting. It was time to deal with Kakistos.

Part 8
Flowering

For the next week, Willow worked with Faith, helping the woman get back into shape. As each day passed, the bond of trust grew more and a friendship was nurtured.

One of the Master's minions kept a close eye on Kakistos and his traveling band and when they reached enough distance, he sent word that they should come.

The raiding party was small. Dani and Willow led the way, with Faith and a cadre of fifteen vampires, some of the Master's best soldiers. The plan was to get in fast, hit hard and be gone before the dust settled.

Moving east, they located Kakistos camp in between towns. Because they were moving onto the next town the following day most of the camp remained packed up. The gladiators were left in their cages, with a minimal number of guards and all three facts only made their plan that much easier.

The raiders split off into branch groups, each making their way to assigned points. One group would release the Gladiators while the other soldiers mixed in with the escaping prisoners and took care of Kakistos people.

The evil leader himself belonged to the trio of women. He was easy to locate from the plush tent and sounds of struggle from within. Kakistos didn't seem worried about attacks and had only his trusted aid with him inside the huge cavernous tent as well as a young blond girl.

Kakistos laughed as he stripped the young girl and dangled her by her wrist manacles. "You may not last long, but you're going to be fun." He gloated with bared fangs.

The girl struggled against him but only succeeded in amusing him more. Growing eager to play, he pinned the girl beneath him and dragged his claw down her bare chest.

"You displeased Daddy."

Kakistos swung his head around, no longer focusing his attention on the squirming girl beneath him. One of the redheads stood a few feet away, hand on her hip and foot tapping against the cloth draped ground. Near the door, the other redhead held his aid by the throat, her eyes never wavering from him.

But his biggest surprise was seeing his former champion with the red headed demons and armed with a crossbow no less.

"How dare you." He growled at them. Rising to his full height, he was an imposing figure and he moved toward them, leaving the cowering girl. At the opening, she skittered away from him and crouched near the back of the tent.

"You showed our Master the utmost lack of respect." Dani scolded, her foot patting faster. "You're a bad vampire."

Suddenly, the aid threw his head back, catching Willow unaware. He was able to break free of her hold and ran towards the tent flap to escape. Calmly, Dani retrieved a silver dagger from her boot and easily impaled him. There was an explosion of dust and one less person in the room.

"That was only silver, you Bitch."

Dani chewed her long nail and smiled. "Guess it soaked too long in that holy water."

Kakistos took a step off the platform. Willow moved up, a small trickle of blood oozing from her nose, and took her place beside her Sire.

"Daddy made you a fair offer and you spat in his face." Dani continued.

"Aww." He smiled and directed his gaze at Faith. "Because the little whore he bought was roughed up. She tried to run and we had no choice but to punish her."

"Liar." Faith mumbled softly.

"Besides, she looks fine now. Did he get all bent out of shape because he couldn't have her right away? You know, she's been in worse shape and taken before."

Willow's face had changed, as had her demeanor. "You twisted, sadistic bastard."

Now he looked at her, reading her body language and mood. "So she was yours. Well, now that's interesting. I guess you're the one I should give instructions to then." Kakisitos began a slow methodical stroll, rubbing his chin as he went. "She like's it rough, even painful. More than one at a time is good too, why I remember a time when she entertained five…"

"Gggrahhh." And Willow launched at him. Tucking low, she slammed into him with enough force to knock him backwards but not off his feet. He grabbed her by the waist and raised her in the air upside down.

Dani rushed in behind her twin and was there to catch her as she was tossed through the air. The two women rolled to the ground, coming to a stop on the other side of the tent.

Kakistos was on the move and headed for Faith. With slayer speed she dodged him and continued to dance around him. "Did you tell her about the electricity, girl. All the places it went and your screams like a symphony to my ears."

Faith fired the crossbow. An arrow sailed into his shoulder and as fast as she could reload, sent another plunging into his stomach.

He reached out for her and shoved her to the ground, ready to deliver a cloven hoof to her head.

Willow leapt onto his back, digging her nails into his throat and pulling upwards. He gurgled as his own blood began to flow and stumbled backwards before falling and crushing Willow beneath him.

The Slayer could not believe what she had seen. Her new friend, a vampire, had attacked her former Master and just saved her life as well. A new swell of anger at the cloven hoofed monster erupted.

"No!" Faith and Dani yelled in unison as Kakistos ground the small redhead beneath him.

Closer, Faith spotted the knife lying in the pile of ashes, grabbed it and charged to her friend's defense. "Bastard!" She sneered and brought the knife down across his face with all the power she had.

The blade easily sliced down the right side of his face. Howling, he rolled off Willow, one hand trying to staunch the blood and the other reaching out to locate one of his assailants.

Dani tackled him and raised the stake above his heart. She was on the downward swing, when the fight outside, crashed into the tent. She continued the arc and connected with him before she was tackled by one of the escaping gladiators.

Kakistos' minions were embroiled in a battle with the gladiators and the Master's raiders. The three women were reluctantly pulled into the fray and seeing his chance Kakistos disappeared.

The battle was settled rapidly with Kakisitos former slaves released, most of his crew dust and the camp itself in flames. Before the sun rose, they scoured the remains, making certain that no signs of their presence existed.

Then they began the three-day journey back to Sunnydale and to report to the Master their success.

Dani and Willow stood under the hot water of the shower, the dust from their trip vanishing down the drain. The meeting with the Master had been short and sweet, ending with him expressing great pleasure at their accomplishment. After dismissing them, they rushed home, anxious to wash the grime away.

Since returning to her normal work schedule for the Master, the Sire had not been able to spend hardly any time with her child and now there was Faith. There was no hiding the jealously there, but she also saw the joy that the slave brought her child and that was the most important thing to her.

Even though they weren't together as often, Dani could tell that something was troubling Willow. She moved up behind her child and snaked her arms around the thin waist, pulling her close. "What's bothering you, love? Did Kakistos hurt you and you're not telling mummy?"

Willow leaned back into the embrace, closing her eyes and putting her hands over her Sire's. "I'm just tired. He didn't hurt me but I was off when we moved and someone could have been hurt. I'm sorry."

Dani kissed her neck gently, tonguing away a droplet of water. "Your emotions got the better of you but you did fine. It was your first real fight and you risked yourself to protect your own. I'm angry about that but proud of you."

Sliding around in the arms that held her, Willow faced her Sire. She leaned in and firmly kissed her on the mouth then draped her arms around her Sire's waist.

Even with the hot water, Dani could feel the cold within Willow. Her color was also more pasty than pale and although strong, she was nowhere near what her vampire strength should be. "When was the last time you fed? And I mean from a living being, not some bottled, donated stuff."

"Not long." Willow lied and rested her head on her Sire's shoulder.

Normally when the girl used the needy child act, Dani would cave in but not this time. The Sire pulled back and met the same green eyes. "I'll forget that you just lied to me, love. Even a newborn could see that you're in need of fresh blood and contact. I had plans for today but I'm going to cancel and we…"

"No." Willow stated in a tone that was stronger than she felt. "I'll be okay and I'll eat, soon. I promise."

A sudden flash filled the bathroom with bright light and was followed by a sultry giggle. The door to the shower opened and Anyanka peered in. Letting her eyes roam over both women, she licked her lips. "You two really are the same. You know if Willow wants to join us…" The demon stopped offering a smile and raised eyebrow.

"You, go to the bedroom and get undressed." Dani directed to the demon.

"Go Dani." Willow blushed, noticing the extra sway, Anyanka added to her walk as she glided to the door leading to the bedroom. "I'll be fine and we'll talk tonight, before you leave."

Dani looked at her child and back to where the demon had disappeared. She was torn and wanted to be with both but Willow nudged her. "She's waiting."

Already, Willow could feel the building tension in her Sire. "Alright. But we talk tonight." With that Dani exited the shower and walked to the awaiting demon that held a towel in welcome.

She couldn't help but chuckle and closed the shower door to prevent anymore warmth from escaping. Stepping back into the stream of hot water, Willow closed her eyes and rested her hands against the warm tile.

Dani was right. She couldn't ignore the way she was feeling but the thoughts of drinking from another being repulsed her to her very core. The donor blood had been fine for awhile, but now she was getting shaky, not sleeping well and having weak spells. Even her magic had been of no use but was instead suffering as well.

Her mind and soul warred with itself and she lost all track of time but the water was finally releasing her tension.

Even more so when she felt hands stroking her back.

"Dani, you didn't have to leave Anya. I'm fine." She sighed and turned around.

It wasn't Dani that joined her in the shower. Faith stood before her, the water splattering against her olive skin. Rivulets ran down her body, catching the light from the rising sun, painting her body in gold.

"Uh…Faith…"

Like a cat, the Slayer moved closer to the redhead. "You're not taking. I'm giving, if you want."

Never had her body sang with such desire and need as it did now. Still she was hesitant. "I…don't have a lot of…experience." Willow admitted shyly. "I don't want to hurt you."

"You won't." Smiling, the brunette went to Willow.

The feel of Faith's warm skin against her sent a jolt of electricity through her. The first kiss was soft, gentle and welcoming. Willow let her hands slowly caress the slippery skin of Faith's back and arms.

Feeling more confident, Faith sought another kiss, this one more insistent. Now her own hands began an exploration, lingering on the silky smooth expanse that was Willow. Almost like feathers her hands moved around her back and swirled on her stomach.

Willow gasped when she felt strong yet tender hands on her breasts. Feeling the hot breath of Faith on her chest and the fingers dancing, toying with her nipples, the little nubbins became puckered and rock hard, making her shudder.

Wanting to reciprocate, Willow let her hands drop down and cup Faiths firm, tight buttocks. She squeezed lightly and pulled the dark warrior close, their mons briefly touching. Nibbling at the girl's ear, Willow whispered. "Faith, bedroom…please."

Reaching behind the redhead, she turned the water off and without warning, found herself picked up. Instinctively she wrapped strong, short legs around the slim freckled waist.

Already wet, Faith's clit pressed against Willow's firm stomach, every step the redhead took, delivering delicious friction. Slumping forward, Faith groaned as the tension built and in an effort for more contact.

With her arms acting as a cradle for Faith's bottom, she pulled the Slayer in closer, increasing the pressure. Next she began trailing her tongue across her shoulders and chest, urged on by Faith's mewling.

Maintaining contact, Willow laid them down on the bed, Faith stubbornly holding her place by refusing to unlock her legs. Brushing dark hair from the beautiful face, Willow met the smoldering brown eyes. "You're sure?"

In answer, Faith leaned up and seized the pouty lips of her Mistress. They tasted one another with an agonizingly slow pace. When Faith opened her full lips, Willow accepted the invitation. Venturing in, she examined, tasted and met Faiths tongue for a slow dance.

With little effort, Willow rolled to the side, allowing her hand into the mix. She brought it up and stroked the curve of Faith's butt and hip with slow sensual movements. After a few minutes of this attention, she continued to the slope of the hip, strumming her fingers along the ribs.

Finally Faith unlocked her legs as Willow broke their kiss. Then she began paying respects to the Slayer's jawline, neck, shoulder and chest with her tongue and lips.

Faith's scent was intoxicating, a mixture of sandalwood and honey that left her almost heady with desire. Moving down the dark chest, she discovered Faith's large swollen nipples and her mouth watered. Nibbling downward, licking and kissing each scar she found along the way, she stopped when she spotted teeth and fang marks.

It infuriated her that this woman had known only pain and despair most of her life. She was going to do her best to give her something more pleasant to remember. Pulling her mouth away from the still damp skin, she whispered, "You are gorgeous."

Answering with only a moan, it grew louder when Willow's mouth circled her nipple before laving it with her tongue.

Looking down, she didn't see red hair and a kind face. She found the scared, ugly Kakisitos, laughing. "You'll always be mine, whore."

Willow knew something was wrong when Faith stiffened. Fear poured from her skin and Willow stopped her ministrations, looking at her lover with concern. "Faith? Sweetie?"

In the distance, over his laughter, Faith heard the voice and recognized it. It didn't belong to Kakistos. The touch she felt now was loving as opposed to harsh and cruel. Her voice quaked when she questioned, "Willow?"

The image of Kakistos was fading, his laughter silent. The glowing yellow eyes were now emerald green with flecks of gold. "I'm right here Faith. I won't leave you."

"Don't stop." She begged. "Make him go away. Please."

The image was so tangible to the Slayer that she projected it and Willow felt and saw all that she had. "No one here but the two of us, Sweetie." Brushing her hands along the shivering skin, Willow took the nipple back into her mouth. Her eyes never left the Dark Slayer, watching for any reaction that signaled danger.

Using the softest touch possible, Willow suckled, licked and grazed the very tip of the nipple with her teeth. Faith's skin prickled and she emitted a grunt. Willow saw the simple nuances of her relaxing body and continued.

Willow felt the tension building within herself. Knowing that if she allowed it she would cum from just suckling Faith's breast, she tamed the need. Tonight was for Faith, who made it even more difficult to control when she dug her blunted nails into Willows shoulder.

Trailing her fingers up a hardened leg, then thigh, Willow sighed, when her hand came to rest on a neatly trimmed thatch of black curls. Two fingers traced patterns over the mons before moving to the apex and stroking her outer lips.

Reluctantly Willow released her pacifier and moved up so that the two women were face to face. Faith was flushed, sweat mixing with the water from the shower. Her eyes were glassy and dilated but focused on the red head above her. Leaning down, Willow kissed the slayer's swollen lips at the same time, she dipped her finger into the warm, wet channel between Faith's legs.

The girl squirmed as the finger explored and caressed her, but her eyes never left the emerald orbs of her lover. Pushing up, she captured Willow's bottom lip, sucking it into her mouth and gingerly examining it with her tongue.

Gently pulling away, Willow stilled her hand. Uncertainty flashed across dark features. Had she done something wrong or displeased the woman?

Willow's voice was strong and level. "Say my name."

The Slayer really looked at the face above her. It was full of passion and kindness unlike the other faces she had been haunted by for the last year. Her touch radiated her feelings and was attempting to help her forget all the pain the others gave her. At this moment, they were the only two people who existed and she might forget the others but she would never forget the redhead. "Willow. Willow, my sweet Willow."

Delighted, Willow kissed the Slayer and started kissing and licking her way down the tight, sweet skin before reaching the dark curls. Her finger had resumed its dance and she licked her lips in anticipation as the musky scent that was all Faith surrounded her.

Without hesitation, Faith spread her legs allowing her lover the unspoken access she craved. She let out a high pitched yelp, when a tentative tongue joined the exploring finger.

The girl's nectar was addictive and Willow took her time enjoying every drop. Adding another finger, she picked up speed as she entered and examined the velvety cavern.

Faith's constant moan and the tightening around Willow's fingers foretold of the coming swell. She tongued the swollen, hard clit, finding a rhythm that matched her hand.

Reaching down, Faith touched Willow's head, desperate for contact. With her free hand, Willow intercepted the hand and their fingers interlaced. The grip tightened when Willow sucked the clit into her mouth.

Strong muscles contracted around her fingers and Faith growled her release. A river of Faith erupted and Willow lapped up every drop. A shiver ran through Faith and swept over Willow as well. She stroked the g spot to help extend the orgasm and rested her check against a heated thigh.

For long minutes Faith floated; their hands still intertwined and Willow firmly holding her. Finally, she eased her hand away and scooted up the satiated body, still quivering from a random aftershock.

Seeing tears in Faith's eyes plunged the redhead into a panic. "Oh goddess, Faith. I'm sorry. I didn't mean to hurt you."

"You didn't."

"Huh?"

Faith's hand drifted up and brushed Willows flushed, damp cheek. "I felt…it's the first time anyone has made love to me. I'm kinda lost."

"Come here Baby." And with that, she wrapped her arms around the Slayer, holding her close.

Dozing off and on, Faith's breathing returned to normal and when she opened her eyes, seeing Willow's closed, she started placing, kisses on the redhead's chest.

Willow's eyes snapped open. She was already wound up and the feel of Faith's hot, lush lips on her skin sent bolts of lightening through her. "You don't have too." She whispered, praying that the girl wouldn't listen to her.

Almost black eyes told of a hunger that wouldn't be denied and Faith sat up, pulling Willow into her lap. They kissed for several long moments, before Faith started lavishing attention on freckled neck and shoulders. With better access now, the Slayer could tend to the breast before her.

Leisurely lovemaking could come later, now was for want, lust and need. Using her own legs, Faith spread Willow's legs and let her hand drop to soaked curls. She smiled, knowing that the dampness was just for her. Dragging her fingers through the folds, she watched Willow's eyes and head roll back.

She had serviced other vampires and demons. It had been part of Kakistos' 'special deal'. For a price you could attempt to tame the warrior yourself and for a larger price, it was done forcibly. They had all been cold, harsh and with only an old, musty scent.

Slayer senses allowed her to already pick up her Mistress' arousal and it made her mouth water.

Pressing her finger into the woman on her lap, she found warm satin. She explored, circled and stroked before bringing her thumb to the clit, touching softly around the glans but not the organ itself.

Willow groaned and tried to grind down on the finger or thumb. In response, Faith added a second finger and a slow, easy pumping motion. Then she took a hard pink nipple into her mouth, rolling her tongue over it to make it even harder.

The redhead pulled her closer, digging her nails into dark muscular shoulders. That sensation encouraged Faith and her hand picked up speed and her tongue started a similar speed.

With the passion increasing, Willow could tell that Faith was holding back and right now she wanted the Slayer. "More Faith." She breathed

Reluctantly the dark woman released the breast and looked up with hunger filled eyes. "Don't …hold…back." Willow instructed through clenched teeth.

Even with permission, Faith hesitated and unable to control it, Willow's game face

appeared but yellow eyes met brown. "Show me Faith. Take me."

Whether the words or tone, Faith felt a rush of power and returned to her ministrations

with renewed enthusiasm.

"Yessss" Willow hissed when Faith's teeth grazed and bit her nipples, breast and

chest. The thrill of being marked by her dark lover caused her to pull her short

nails across the muscular back and returning the favor.

Faith added a third finger, thrusting harder and faster, the velvety cavern beginning to

tighten and tremble.

They were merged, one person, one rhythm. Both women were covered with sheen of sweat, their bodies quivering and oblivious to everything around them.

Willow met every thrust, grinding down, needing the power and the contact. As the orgasm overtook her, she flung herself back, but Faith's braced hand kept its firm grip on the woman.

Trickles of blood traveled down Faith's back from the ruts Willows nails had dug and left behind.

The redhead's screams of pleasure fell silent as she rode out the sensations, continuing to thrust against the hand within her. Unable to resist, the bouncing baubles in front of her, Faith returned to lavishing attention on the pert breast.

They rocked together and some time later, Willow slumped forward and over Faith's shoulder. Gently she removed her hand, bringing it to her mouth and tasting the essence of the woman in her arms.

Like her, it was soft and sweet, making the dark Slayer crave more contact but at the moment both were exhausted. She stretched out, holding her lover in her arms and welcomed the daylight.

A gentle finger drawing patterns on her back greeted the Slayer that evening. Like a cat, she extended her body for a happy satisfied stretch before rolling to lay on her back.

Willow lay on her side watching. The couple had spent most of the day exploring and savoring one another's body. For those hours, Willow had forgotten the past seven months pains and disillusions. She had given all she had to the dark woman and received the same.

Faith found the warmest green eyes awaiting her and then the smile appeared. "Good morning or evening."

Her lover hypnotized the redhead. "Morning. Whether asleep or awake, you are the most beautiful woman I have every seen."

A rare blush flashed on Faith's cheeks and she rolled against the redhead, snuggling and draped her arm over her waist.

Willow hugged her close and rolled onto her back, pulling Faith to lay on top of her. She loved the way Faith's voice reverberated on her chest as she spoke. "I never knew that someone could be so tender and passionate. I feel alive again. Like a free woman."

Willow placed a kiss on her head. "You are free and alive. You did the same for me. I didn't hurt you did I?"

Faith looked up and met her lover's eyes. "Not at all. I'm a little sore but that was from the fight. What about you? I got kinda rough."

Her face was as red as her hair and she took a deep breath. "I'm great. Maybe a soak in a hot tub would take those aches away."

"If you'll do my back Miss."

Willow quirked an eyebrow. "Your back, front, side, anything you want."

Sliding up to meet Willow, she brushed her lips on the redhead's. Willow initiated the next kiss, her hands traveling down and grasping the firm butt cheeks. She pulled the dark woman closer, their mons grinding against one another. "You run the bath and I'll get some snacks."

There was a flash of fear and hesitancy on the face of her lover. "Faith what is it?"

"What if I'm dreaming? If I'm still in that cage and this was all a wonderful dream. I don't want to wake up."

"Ouch!" Faith yelped when Willow pinched her butt.

"Nope. Not dreaming."

The two women began a mock wrestling match before getting out of bed and starting the night.

After a long, active bath, they took a walk outside and played with the dogs before returning to the house. Dani had returned early from work and wanted to speak privately with her child.

Once alone, she informed her that the Master was sending her out of town for a few days to deal with some trouble. The announcement was not met with happiness from Willow. Her Sire had always been just a room or phone call away. Knowing Dani, she knew that her Sire wouldn't leave unless the Master had ordered it and he wasn't to be ignored.

Dani was just as reluctant to leave her girl alone. From the sounds she had heard last night, the dark warrior made her child happy and would keep her company though. She understood Willow's fear as well and did her best to assure the girl that the Master was very happy with their handling of the Kakistos affair and that she would be safe. Dani would only be gone for three days and it would pass quickly.

Willow could read Dani as well as her Sire read her and not wanting to distress her, she accepted the news and remained positive. It would give her a chance to have Jacob start training her pet.

They left the study and sat down to the dinner Jacob had prepared. She was becoming more comfortable with the fact that Dani would be out of contact for a bit and it helped that the dark woman was moving against her seductively at the table.

After dinner, the twins went upstairs to pack and spend a bit more time together.

Later in the evening, Faith and Willow lay holding one another, talking. The dark slayer spooned the redhead. "I'm being silly aren't I?"

Faith kissed her neck. "No. If you feel unsettled or worried there's as reason. I just wish I could help."

Before Willow could make her suggestion, there was a firm knock on the door. She pulled the covers up to conceal them before calling out. "Yes, Jacob?"

He eased in, keeping his eyes averted and down. "Forgive me Miss but I thought you would want to know. The project you gave me, I found what you were looking for."

Befuddled for a moment, she remembered the favor she had asked of him. Sitting up, Willow almost lost her cover but modesty was the last thing on her mind at the moment. "That fast? Where is he?"

"Still in town, but not for much longer. He's willing to meet with you and Faith."

"When?"

The older man sighed. "Two hours. At the library."

Like a child at Christmas her face lit up, then she realized what time it was and what the meeting would mean. "They want a day meeting." She stated.

"They were adamant about it. Said they would meet with just Faith if you didn't want to come."

Having a good idea of what they were talking about Faith decided. "We don't go."

Willow stroked her lover's arm. "You have to go. He won't hurt you." She looked back to Jacob. "The car had tempered glass, right?"

"Yes Miss," He frowned. "But I really don't think it's safe to go. Need I remind you that you are their sworn enemy."

"I appreciate your concern but I am going. Vampires are their enemy, not me personally." She turned and held Faith's eyes, taking her warm hand into a delicate cool one. "Please, love. It's important to resume your training. You're needed."

Faith wanted to resist and refuse but she couldn't do that to the woman. "Okay. I trust you. But not them."

Willow kissed her and smiled.

The town looked more active since she had asked for donors instead of outright killing. A few stores were open and people were moving about.

Sunnydale High School campus looked like a ghost town. There were a few students and adults here and there but only one wing of the school remained in use.

Wearing a heavy coat, gloves, hat and glasses, Willow wore enough protection to get from the car to the building before smoldering. Wanting to draw as little attention as possible, she led the way through the back stacks. As they neared the main library, she insisted Faith stay back as she ventured into the room.

The smell of old books greeted her like an old friend. So much time spent in this library with her friends, researching and fighting the bad guys. Her soul ached as she could almost see their ghostly images around the square table. Very little had changed about the library except it looked less used and ragged.

So little respect for great works, she thought as she made her way through the stacks and toward the front desk. The place seemed empty but her heightened senses told another story however she didn't want to alarm their hosts.

The library always caught the evening sun and the shadows now offered her safety. Enough safety that she removed the hat, glasses and gloves. Just as she finished unbuttoning her coat, she called out. "Giles?"

A blur from the left caught her attention and she was tackled to the floor. Someone delivered a punch to her jaw, sat astride her and raised a stake holding hand.

A beautiful coffee colored woman was atop her, strong muscular frame and no nonsense face looked down at her. "Ya vampires are not very smart."

Willow saw the flex of a muscle and realized the stake was about to descend. "Kendra! Wait!" She yelled out.

The familiarity caught her off guard and she stopped the downward arc. "How you know me?" The Jamaican accent was almost comforting.

"I know you and Mr. Pointy."

Kendra's wrist was seized and she was yanked off the pinned vampire. Her wrist was released and she found an intense brunette standing between her and the vampire.

"Back the hell off." Faith growled as Willow jumped to her feet.

"Kendra. Stop." A man's voice rang out.

"It's okay Faith." She tried to calm her lover down and rested a hand on he