Branches of the Willow by April

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.

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.

"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?"

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."

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…."

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."

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."

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.

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."

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."

"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."

"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."

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.

"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?"

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.

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.

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."

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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."

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."

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."

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?"

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.

"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.

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."

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.

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.

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.

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."

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."

"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."

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?"

"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.

"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."

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.

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."

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."

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."

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."

"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."

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

"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."

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

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.

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."

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.

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?"

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."

"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."

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."

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.

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.

"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."

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?"

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."

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."

"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."

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

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 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?"

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?"

"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?"

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?"

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."

"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."

"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."

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?"

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.

"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…"

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.

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.

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.

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.

"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."

"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."

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.

"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.

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.

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."

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."

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?

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."

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

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

"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

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

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."

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."

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."

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."

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.

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.

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

Seeing the well-acquainted face made Willow want to run across the room and receive a fatherly hug from the man. But this wasn't her Giles. Even his appearance was different. "Giles?" He looked worn, tired and almost ten years older than he was. His hair was graying and a bit ruffled. Something's never changed as he took off his glasses and cleaned them with a handkerchief.

Kendra and Faith were still facing off. "You are human and you defend a vampire? Why?"

The British accent was like music to her ears as he moved up beside the glowering Jamaican. "Actually we do, Ms. Spencer. That you've found your way to us is miraculous. That a vampire is the one who helped you is impressive and highly suspicious."

"I told you she wasn't the typical vampire." Ronnie stated as she stood up from behind the counter.

Now this did surprise Willow and she stared at Jacob's daughter. Not just seeing the girl here but what she said next. "She's gone to great lengths to keep the girl safe and to you Giles."

Willow sighed. If you've got a few minutes and a mocha, I'll be happy to explain."

Motioning to one of the side tables, they warily took a seat and Willow began her tale.

When she finished, there was no question in their mind that this vampire was on their side.

The redhead received another pleasant surprise when, during their meeting, Gile's wife joined them. Jenny Calendar had come to town to keep a watch on the souled Angel. In this reality there was no Slayer for him love and in turn loose his soul for. Instead, the Master and Dani, her Sire had captured him. Those events led to the computer teacher joining the resistance where she met and fell for its leader. Both were aware of supposed vampires with souls and were a bit more willing to give benefit of the doubt.

For Willow, to see that Jenny was still alive and the two had ended up together gave her a sense of peace and closure. In this world they had made a life together and that beat her memories of Jenny's death and Giles' grief.

Giles also pointed out the fact that besides her being a Vampire, she ran the local blood plant. It was easy for her to explain and prove the changes she had made to ensure less killing.

Kendra insisted a vampire should be slain but Faith made it abundantly clear that they would have to go through her first. Her look and the way she said it left them certain of her threat.

Next up was Faith's reappearance. The council had alerted Giles of Faith's disappearance and they concluded that with her watcher slain she had either been killed or turned.

With difficulty, she began relaying what had happened after her capture and imprisonment. When words seemed to hang, she looked beside her, seeing her lover giving her the strength to forge ahead.

Jenny listened and watched closely. There was no way she could miss the way the redheaded vampire watched over the brunette or that they appeared to maintain contact under the table.

By the time Faith finished, Giles, Jenny, Ronnie and Kendra were left in stunned silence. The future slayer didn't like being the center of attention and sat back in the chair, leaning towards her lover.

Giles realized how rude they were behaving and broke the silence. "So because of the Faith in your world, you made the assumption she would be a potential here as well?"

She felt Faith tense but squeezed her arm. "Who else would know about Mr. Pointy?" Willow countered.

That much was a puzzle. Even her watcher had not known that she named her stake because it was the only friend she was allowed as a child.

He couldn't dispute that either. He had been sent to meet and train his slayer charge and she had never appeared. The council looked upon him as a failure and outcast but he decided to stay in town and fight against the rising evil. They were losing and badly and he was ready to pack it in until Cordelia showed up claiming to be from another now. In the short time they had together, she convinced him that things should be different and it was up to him to do it.

After contacting Buffy Summers, he began researching alternate realities. When the Slayer died, his guilt for even calling her was consuming him until the council decided he would be useful to Kendra. The coming battle would be on the Hellmouth and that was where the Slayer was needed.

"So you're willing to allow Faith to continue her training? Learn to be a vampire Slayer?" Jenny asked.

Willow looked at the brunette with affection. Turning back to Jenny, she smiled. "It's who she is."

Willow and Faith blushed and fidgeted in their seats. "Uhm…" Willow sputtered. "I…we…well…"

Kendra's nose crinkled up. "'Tis not natural. Vampires are barely above animals and to let one touch…"

Faith rose to her feet and leaned against the table in front of Kendra. "I know animals and she is nowhere near them. I think unless you're ready to give up that Slayer title, you won't talk to her like that again."

Giles took a deep breath. "There's no need for that. We're all on the same side. Of course she can continue her training with me. The problem will be to not arouse suspicion."

Ronnie scooted closer to the woman. "It would just be during the day. With my dad working there and my recent frequent visits, no one will think anything about you spending time with me. At night you go back to the mansion."

Faith turned her brown eyes on Willow. The redhead couldn't mistake the uncertainty and fear of being left alone again. She reached up and cupped the girl's face. "Tell you what. We try it for a few days. If you don't like it, we'll find another way. I don't want you to leave anymore than you want too."

Willow looked back at Giles and for the first time he saw how strong she really was. "The Rupert Giles in my reality was my friend, mentor and a father figure to me. He was a good, honest, fair man. I'm trusting this reality's is the same because I'll be entrusting you with someone I care about very much."

Kendra opened her mouth to speak but Giles silenced her with a look. He remembered meeting the Willow of this reality before she had been turned and he could still see some of that girl before him. He could also see the vampire that would hunt him until the end of his days if he hurt Faith. His gut told him he could trust the redhead and a nod from his wife settled it. "When do you want to start?"

The two women exchanged glances. And they all saw the trust between the two. "Today?" Willow asked.

Faith was comfortable with Ronnie and the doctor promised to stay with her and take her back to the mansion when training was over.

The dark Slayer was surprised by how much and how quickly Paula's teachings emerged from her memories. Giles and Jenny were impressed with Faith's physical condition and skill, Kendra even offered grudging compliments, so they spent more time talking than on physical training.

All agreed that the Slayer in training would come into town twice a week for formal training and her time at the mansion would be spent on exercise and book studies. Faith was excited about her new regime but she also felt guilty because of the wedge it could drive between she and Willow. She promised herself that she wouldn't let that happen.

The day went much smoother than any of them could have expected but it was easy to tell when Faith became anxious to return to her lover. Giving her a few books to study, Giles praised her and a few hours before sunset, Ronnie took her home.

Jacob had the night off so when Ronnie came by he hopped a ride with her to visit with his family and allow the two women some alone time. Faith had offered a quick hello and goodbye, fixed Willow a drink and rushed upstairs.

Her lover still slept, peaceful and quiet. Willow lay sprawled across the bed, nude, with a sheet bunched up beside her. Faith moved and took a stance at the foot of the bed, admiring the view.

Thin but shapely body, with curves in all the right places, long legs that crested with reddish brown curls. Firm, well-defined abs toped by small breasts with nipples jutting out invitingly. How could she fall for someone, a vampire no less, after only two weeks?

Watching the woman sleep, the answer was apparent. She had never met someone with as pure a heart, which only wanted the best for her and asked for nothing in return. There was still a voice in back of her head that scolded her for trusting so completely. Yet the goddess before her had captured her heart while freeing her from slavery.

Willow looked so delicious that Faith set the drink down and undressed quickly. Stealthily she settled at the foot of the bed, then began placing kisses on the top of Willow's feet.

She licked and tasted the cool skin and inhaled the cinnamon that always lingered around the redhead. The Slayer continued working her way up. An ankle, calves, knees and as she continued her upward drive, Willow stirred slightly, a hungry sigh passing through pink lips.

The sigh became a groan when Faith's full lips reached her thighs. Green eyes snapping open; Willow craned her head up and looked between her legs into the glittering eyes of the young Slayer.

Raising an eyebrow, Faith smiled broadly. "Breakfast." She returned to her meal, her tongue dipping between Willow's outer lips and stroking her clit.

"Oh Goddess." Willow's head fell back in place and her legs were spread wider to accommodate her lover.

Resting her head on Willow's shoulder, Faith draped her arm over her hips and their legs remained entwined.

After 'breakfast', Willow had asked about the Slayer's training and if she wanted to continue. Their next topic was the long put off return to work for the vampire. Trying to distract her, Faith traced patterns around firm buttocks.

The phone interrupted their afterglow and pre-glow. Willow hesitated answering it but then thought it could be Dani and picked it up.

From the way Willow's face hardened, she could tell it wasn't Dani. After a few moments of silence, Willow graciously thanked the caller and assured them they would be there post haste.

Willow nodded and cupped her lover's face. "Yes. Don't worry it's just probably some business and he knows how attached to you I am."

"Let's take a quick shower, get dressed and get it over with. On the way back home we can stop for that chocolate ice cream you like so well."

"You mean you like so well, but I will never let you eat alone." Faith corrected and turned to exit the bed.

The Slayer knew what the problem was and saved her from saying it out loud. "I know Willow. I have to slip back into slave and subservient mode."

Faith leaned across the bed and silenced her with a kiss. "I understand that it's just for appearances, right?"

"I can do the obedient slave thing, but don't be afraid to get rough if you have too. I can take it and we have to make this look real. Okay?"

As soon as they arrived, they were led back to the Master's private lair. Passing through the Bronze, they witnessed the usual debauchery of vampires feeding and 'playing' with humans.

Faith was able to ignore it more so than Willow because at one time it had been a daily occurrence for her. The cries and screams of the dying echoed in Willow's head and Faith could detect a slight shiver course through her when they reached the lair door.

Upon seeing them, the Master smiled, fangs glistening. Both women were dressed in black leather. Faith's outfit was a bit more revealing and highlighted her toned body. Around her neck rested a leather collar with steel D-ring in front and on her wrists were the matching cuffs. She kept her eyes down and shoulders slumped to show her subservience.

Willow bowed in respect, wondering why she was here. "Good evening Grand Sire. Is Dani all right?"

He nodded and clapped his hands together. "Oh yes, she's fine. She's my right hand and I know she can take care of the business I sent her on."

Noticing two other servants were seated across the room, Willow motioned for Faith to join them. "There. And be a good girl or the chains go back on."

Obediently, the dark Slayer took her place, kneeling and awaiting further instructions.

The Master gave his grandchild's girl a head to toe look. "She cleaned up nicely."

"Any problems with training? I can assign you one of my more experienced people if need be. I would guess she knows the rules but will test you."

Willow's spidey sense started kicking in. He seemed to focus on Faith and she would protect her lover from his horrors at all costs. "My Master, I mean no disrespect, I was told you needed to see me right away. If Dani is okay and you are safe, is something else wrong?"

He stood and moved beside her. "Such a perceptive child. Yes dear there is and I need your help." Without warning, he backhanded her with enough power to throw her several feet.

Faith leapt to her feet but got no further when the two servants beside her pinned her back against the brick wall. Two more minions appeared and in a matter of seconds Faith found one of her arms chained to the wall.

Willow lay on her side, lip split and bleeding as the Master approached. Scrambling to her knees, Willow wasn't fast enough to avoid the heavy leather boot that landed against her ribs.

"Mistress!" Faith called out, trying to wrench free of her chains. She managed to pull her left hand loose and using her wrist brace broke the nose of one of the men. She swung and connected with another, before the remaining two tackled her against the wall. Punches were directed at her until they could get her other hand secure.

Two more servants appeared near the Master and each taking an arm, pulled the red head to her feet. Willow's head was spinning. In only a minute everything around her had exploded. Her ears were still ringing from his initial hit but she could hear Faith scrambling and turned her head toward the girl. "Faith, stop fighting."

Slayer instinct urged her to go on but she trusted the owner of that voice. The Master was another story. "Enough." He told the ones around her and certain she was secure, they backed away.

Still being restrained, he again slapped his grandchild. "Did you think I wouldn't find out?!" He growled and got in her face, his spittle burning her. "You think I'm stupid?"

She tasted her own blood and tried to conceal her fear. "Grandsire, I don't understand."

It took three of the Master's servants to chain Faith to the wall and they showed the battle scars. Had Faith not read Willow's thoughts it would have been double that number and she would still be fighting. Willow's voice had all but screamed, "Don't show your true strength."

The directive was hard to obey, even after they had run a chain through the bolt on the wall and locked her wrist cuffs to it. Once they had left her, she tugged at her restraints testing their strength only to discover they were more than secure.

Faith watched in terror as Willow was stripped to her underwear, then manacled to a steel suspension bar. The Master watched his minions' treatment of his grandchild with lecherous glee. When they were finished, she hung from the bar, her toes barely scraping the concrete floor.

Willow's arms were stretched to their limits and without her clothes she felt open and vulnerable. Her only movement was the ability to turn her head slightly and see Faith from the side of her eye. An explosion of stars replaced the brunette when Willow received the kidney punch.

"If you have to beat someone, let it be me." Faith challenged, baring her teeth in defiance.

The Master grinned, incisors prominent and turned to look at the little girl. "So you're willing to take her punishment? Such loyalty in such a short time?"

"Be quite Faith." Willow ordered sounding more confident than she felt. "If I've earned a punishment, then I will take it." She focused a glare on Faith. "Just as you will for your disrespect to my Grandfather."

Her statement recalled his attention and that had been her plan. "Ah," he said before leaving Faith. "Seems you've earned your own punishment."

Instinctively, Faith bowed her head and fell silent. Willow hated using the harsh tone and threats with her lover but it had to be done.

The Master took a stance in front of the redhead. "Such bravery from one so fragile. Are you willing to scar her more than she already is?"

To back down was death and Willow was well aware of how close she was now. "I am not that fragile and it wouldn't be the first time I've had to correct her. She is only doing her job, which is to protect me. But I meant what I said, if I've earned a punishment I will take it. All I ask is tell me what I did."

He trailed a claw from the top of her panties up her stomach. "So you're telling me…" moving up to her lacy bra. "…You have…" dragging his nails over the swell of her breast. "…No idea…" up her arm. "…why you're here?"

She swallowed the rising bile his touch was triggering and used all her reserves to maintain the cool exterior.

"So lovely. I miss this body." He sighed. "Since your arrival my girl just hasn't been as blood thirsty, as violent, such a beautiful killing machine." His soft touch disappeared and he harshly grabbed her throat. "I welcomed you despite the fact you stink of a soul and you betray me."

Not needing air was proving beneficial at the moment but the pain was intense, as was his fetid breath. "How?" She screeched.

As his grip tightened it was now a struggle to form words. "How did…I…betray…you?"

He released her throat and got in her face. "You deny conspiring with the humans. Earning their trust and loyalty so you could survive their coupe to destroy me and Sunnydale?"

Moving around her, he settled behind her and moved in against her ear. "With your kindness towards the humans. I hear how they talk about you."

"Let's check that out." He interrupted and buried his fangs in her throat. Drinking deeply, he could taste the same thing Dani had observed earlier. Her blood sickened him and he released her, spitting the remnants of the blood on her. "When was your last kill?"

Willow was still reeling from his sudden bite and reaction. Things were out of control and she didn't know how to put the brakes on.

"You haven't even marked your pet." He stomped around her. "You taste foul. I know you only drink donor blood in order to appease the humans."

Two of his minions approached her, one from the front and one from the back. "I'm sitting right here when you're ready to talk." The Master replied steepling his fingers and leaning forward.

The man in front of her delivered a right cross at the same time the one in back delivered another kidney shot.

The beating seemed to last forever and time ceased to exist in the little corner of hell. Willow was one massive bruise and ached everywhere.

The Master rose to his feet and returned to stand in front of his grandchild. He reached out to stroke her face and she pulled away, expecting another slap.

"I believe you when you say you are not in collaboration to destroy me." He soothed and caressed her cheek. "But your gentle handling of the humans must stop. I'm afraid I'm going to have to make an example of you. Hopefully in the process you will learn your lesson and we won't have to repeat this. Despite the trouble you've been, I am very fond of you and my Willow adores you."

"Please." Willow begged. So far she had appeased him with her innocent answers but that was no longer an option. Internally she was shaking with the pain and fear he had instilled in her. It had been no wonder her twin had broken and that thought frightened her even more.

Sighing deeply, the Master turned and returned to his seat. Two new minions appeared and took the same positions as her previous tormentors. In their hands were leather thong whips with spiked silver tails.

Panic seized her anew and Willow looked at the Master pleading, "Please Master. I have done nothing wrong. Please don't…" A startled yelp replaced the words as the first strike landed on her back.

Another strike played across her stomach and ribs. It seemed at first surreal but with each lash her body burned hotter.

The blows continued raining down on her and she heard someone screaming. When the beating had first begun, she had heard Faith's yells and protests but she had since fallen silent. Yet this voice was different but familiar. It was when one of the spikes bit through her skin that she realized the screams were her own.

Exhausted, Faith refused to give up on reaching her lover. Even after the Master had her gagged for silence, she continued to make any sort of noise so Willow would know she was not alone. Willow's screams drowned her out and then silenced her.

She couldn't watch as the beating took its toll on the redhead. Looking down at the ground, her cheeks were soaked with sweat and tears. Suddenly someone grabbed her hair and yanked her head back up. "No, no." The Master scolded. "You will watch this. The punishment you volunteered to take." He pulled her gag free.

"She is yours and has done nothing wrong. How can you do this?" Faith knew she was out of place but she wanted an answer.

"Some lessons are painful." He released her hair. "You should know that, dear girl."

He and Faith looked up and saw Willow's limp form, head hanging down. Her body was covered with welts, tears and blood. Her unconscious body swung from the flurry of the blows and her toe dragged red patterns from the pooling blood that was gathering underneath her.

"Begin bringing some of the Bronze guests in. Just a few to get the word out of what happens to those I suspect of betrayal. Even my own blood is not immune."

The male minion went to obey his orders and the Master motioned for the female to come to him. "Now girl." He refocused on Faith. "Time to deal with your behavior."

Jacob had returned to the house early the next morning and wasn't surprised to find no one home. But as the day progressed and no one came home or called he began to grow uneasy.

He searched the house twice for a note or some clue as to the occupants' whereabouts but found nothing. It was not uncommon for them to leave but he was always notified. With no way of reaching Dani and her return still more than 24 hours away, he had no options.

If he called and tried to track them down, the Master would find out and he didn't want to interrupt or endanger Willow if she was with him. As day became night, Jacob was beginning to panic. He tried to stay busy, cleaning, baking, anything to keep his mind from wondering. Pacing the wax off the floor he finally decided to call Ronnie a few hours before dawn.

He explained his concern and although she thought he might be overreacting, agreed to check around and keep in touch. As he returned the phone to the cradle he heard the front door slam and an anguished call for him.

Rushing through the house to the entrance hall, he skidded to a stop. The sight before him made his blood run cold. Faith stood next to the door, disheveled and bruised. In her arms was the limp, motionless and bloodied body of Willow.

Shaking away his fog, he rushed over to help Faith. Once he was close, he noticed that the girl was running on sheer willpower alone. He reached to take her burden but she refused to give the redhead up. "We need Ronnie, now."

In her years as a doctor she had seen every kind of injury and cruelty since the vampires took over. But as Ronnie examined Willow she had not seen anything this intentionally brutal.

Only the soles of the vampire's feet remained unmarked. Faith and Jacob helped in trying to clean her up to make Ronnie's job of accessing the injured easier but there was no end to the wounds.

Ronnie knew enough about vampire physiology that with accelerated healing her wounds would heal quickly. The problem was that the healing hadn't begun yet and that had her puzzled.

"Her wounds should have already begun healing but I can't find any evidence of it." Ronnie frowned.

Faith and Ronnie stared at him. Faith knew Willow had been consuming nutrition but the Master's words came back to her. "The Master said she tasted foul. He asked when her last kill was."

"That she's only been drinking donor blood. Nothing fresh. She hasn't fed on a living being in over a month and even then she never took more than enough to survive unless the Master was present." Jacob supplied.

Ronnie looked back at the jagged tears covering Willow's pale skin. Bruises, broken bones, gashes of flesh missing, injuries that would have killed a mortal. No one had been more surprised than Ronnie that she had developed a grudging respect for the vampire mainly for Faith's sake. Now as she looked down at the shadow in front of her, her heart ached for the woman that had denied her nature and was suffering for it.

Two months ago she would have thought it was justice and not wasted another thought on it. Willow had changed that. "Okay Pop, what do we do to help her?"

Faith stood up and began yanking at her collar. "We give her what she needs." Jacob reached over and stopped her.

She flinched at his touch, something father and daughter both caught. "Did you reinjure…" Ronnie started and pulled up the bottom of Faith's shirt.

Faith tried to pull back but Ronnie scolded her and held on. "Stay still Faith." She lifted the shirt and found identical wounds to Willow's on the girls' back.

Jacob looked at the injury. Even though it was not as severe as Willow's it sickened him and made him angrier than he ever thought possible.

"This needs to be taken care of." Ronnie pushed. Faith pulled away from her. The Slayer's brown eyes burned with intensity. "Take care of Willow first. Mine is not that bad and it's not the first beating I've ever had."

Faith leaned down next to Willow. "Stay with me." Tenderly she touched her hand, careful to avoid the ugly scrapes around her pale wrists.

"Miss Willow." Jacob said as he leaned down over her. "You're home and safe. Ronnie's here and she'll take care of you. We all will."

"No." Faith didn't want to argue but she wasn't about to lose her Willow. Then she felt a weak squeeze on her hand.

Reluctantly Faith turned around and after Jacob moved away, took her shirt off revealing a mangled back.

Slayer healing had already kicked in and after Ronnie cleaned the wounds and started her on antibiotics, she refocused on Willow. Again Faith insisted on letting Willow feed from her but Jacob and Ronnie refused.

"Faith." Jacob reasoned. "You're the Slayer in training. That means you have the super healing and power. Willow is out of commission and needs protection. Your protection. If you give blood, you'll be weak and she needs you strong."

It was an argument she wanted to challenge but the logic was there. If the Master or

any of his whipping boys showed up, she planned on covering the garden with ash. "You win." She gave in reluctantly.

"I got it Pop." Ronnie smiled and retrieved a scalpel from her bag. "I will need your help though. If you'll hold her up in a sitting position and help me make sure she doesn't take too much."

Before either could protest, Ronnie had made a two-inch incision in the bend of her arm. Each taking a limp arm, Faith and Jacob eased Willow into a sitting position. Ronnie held her arm up and out just under Willow's nose.

Willow's face twitched and Ronnie moved her arm closer. Willow struggled to consciousness.. She licked her lips and then shook her head no. Ronnie moved closer, but Willow backed away.

"Drink Willow. I give it freely and willingly." Ronnie reassured her and placed the red flow at her lips.

Dry, soft lips encircled the cut, a probing tongue gauging the wound. Expecting a piercing bite, Ronnie was surprised to feel a gentle suction. The sensation was sensual and relaxing. Ronnie was amazed that even in her current condition, Willow's instinct had been to refuse and when she did take it was gentle and kind. After several minutes, she pulled her lips away, quickly licking the red drops from her mouth.

"Willow you need more than that. It's okay to take more." Ronnie said, offering her arm up again.

They all knew it wasn't but it was something. Ronnie signaled her helpers to ease the woman back down.

Faith lay down with her, wanting to stay close but not wanting to cause any more pain to her lover. Sensing her Slayer close, Willow reached out and placed her hand on Faith's arm. The one simple action caused Faith to sigh with some relief and she allowed herself to give into her own exhaustion.

Jacob and Ronnie spoke in soft tones for a moment and then settled in to watch over their patients and friends.

Slowly Willow's wounds began to heal. When the redhead was semi-conscious, Ronnie was able to convince her to feed from her once more to speed along her healing powers.

As night fell she was able to sit up in bed, but still need to lean against Faith for support after a few minutes. Within forty-eight hours, the Slayer's injuries would be healed but if Willow continued to resist feeding off fresh donors, her healing would take much longer.

Faith stayed close to the vampire, almost to the point of hovering. Faith had already decided to be ready if more trouble showed and in truth Willow felt more secure with her own Slayer.

The opening and slamming of the front door caused all of them to tense up. Jacob was on his feet and out the bedroom door in an instant. Ronnie grabbed her bag and followed him, setting up just outside the bedroom. In a special hidden compartment of her bag lay a couple of stakes, holy water and pistol.

At the foot of the bed, Faith held her ground, a wall of fury and strength. Willow disliked having three human shields and she could sense who the intruder was. "Faith. It's safe. You can relax."

Faith also detected who was approaching. An instant later Dani appeared. Her eyes were wide and face reflected the fear and concern coursing through her. Upon seeing her child sitting up, Dani audibly sighed.

Ignoring the dark haired protector, Dani ran to the bed, crawled over to Willow but stopped short of touching her. Dani's hands hovered in the air and her eyes teared up.

She knew why her Sire hesitated and offered her a soft smile. "It's okay Dani. I won't break."

Her Sire slid in next to her gently and wrapped her arms around Willow's body. "My poor baby." Dani cooed.

Turning, Faith looked at the two redheads. The Sire was obviously shaken but relieved. Willow clung to her small, pale and childlike.

"We'll discuss it later." Dani responded, her eyes not leaving her weakened child.

"Later?" Faith repeated. There was no way she was going to let this lie. She was about to launch into the Sire when a soft voice soaked into her mind. "Please love."

Picking up on the rising tension, Jacob appeared at the bedroom door. "Faith, dinner is ready and you need to keep your strength up."

She didn't like it but the Slayer picked up the hint. "I'll be back." She smiled to Willow. "Soon."

Reaching out, Jacob snagged her arm and gave the brunette a tug, nodded to the two redheads and left the room.

"You know I had nothing to do with this, don't you? I would never do anything to help him hurt you." Dani was almost hysterical. "I wouldn't have left had I known what he was going to do. I love you my Willow and I wouldn't let him…"

Willow put her finger over Dani's lips. Her Sire fell silent, pain radiating from her eyes. "I know Dani. I'm hurt, scared and call me crazy but also very angry with him but I know you would have intervened. I know that's why he sent you away. I'm not upset with you."

Dani held her tightly and Willow could feel the shudder that gripped her Sire. "Dani…"

"Mummy's poor baby. I wish I could take the hurt away. Daddy can be so harsh when he's angry. I tried to warn you not to push Daddy."

She realized that Dani was comforting herself now as well. Memories of her own abuse at the hands of the Master were sweeping over her. "It's all right Dani." Willow soothed. "It's over now."

Her twin shook her head. "No. It's not. He told me what happened when I returned this evening. He wanted me to understand that he's watching you and that the next time it won't be so easy on you or your pet."

'Easy on her pet?' Willow thought. Had the Master hurt her beyond the punches and scrapes? She remembered Ronnie and Faith arguing over who would be treated first but had been so in and out of it. Thoughts of Faith enduring any cruelty or pain at the Master's hands caused a growl to erupt before she could stop it.

Assuming the sound meant she had hurt her child, Dani pulled away. "You need rest and to feed. Fresh blood will heal you. I know you've had some, I can smell it but you need more."

Willow nodded as her Sire sat up, preparing to leave her. "Dani." Willow called as the woman rose to her feet. "I love you, just please give me some time. I don't understand why he's angry with me and I'm scared."

The Sire's face softened. "I know my child. Mummy is here to help now." With that she blew her a kiss and left the room.

Faith was waiting in the hallway and caught her near the staircase. "You have a plan Mistress?" The Slayer questioned.

"The Master." Faith frowned. "For what he did to Ms. Willow. Surely you're not going to ignore it."

"Did you see her wounds? She's your child. She is you. How can you ignore that?"

The Slayer was completely caught off guard when Dani gripped her throat and slammed her into the wall. Glowing red eyes and fangs signaled Faith she had pushed too hard. "Forgive my Mistress." She croaked.

"I know you mean well girl but if you care about your Mistress you'll help her get well and keep a lower profile. She has to do as she's told. He won't hesitate to hurt her again." Dani released Faith. Her face had returned to normal and she took a step back.

Faith lowered her head in respect. "I will do anything you ask. I failed to protect her and I am sorry."

Barely touching Faith's sleeve. Dani sighed. "No one can be protected from him." With a shiver, she shook off the mood and inhaled deeply. "Go to her and we won't speak of this again."

Dismissed, Faith rushed back into the bedroom. Willow was still sitting up and frowning. Realizing that she had probably overheard the argument and was upset, Faith spoke up. "I'm sorry you had to hear that."

For a few moments it appeared to be a standoff. Giving in, Faith pulled her shirt over her head and tossed it to the side.

The sight left Willow speechless. She could understand why the girl was braless and wearing a baggy shirt instead of her usual tight tank. With the angry red welts, purple and black bruises and tears covering her torso, she was surprised Faith could even wear a shirt. "Come here." She called, patting the bed beside her.

Ever obedient, Faith moved and crawled into the large bed. Willow pulled back the covers, revealing her nude body and it made Faith ache to see the mottled wounds on her lover's pale skin.

Turning, Willow's hands tenderly touched Faith's wounded body, her eyes filling with tears. "When?"

Willow's already pale skin became translucent as her eyes widened. "He didn't…"

"No." The Slayer spoke up, understanding the question. "He only wanted to make a point."

"No, Willow, stop." Faith curled against her vampire. "I'm okay. Ronnie says my Slayer healing has kicked in. We just need to get you back on your feet. That's all that matters."

Sighing deeply, Willow lay her head on the broad olive shoulder next to her. Faith liked the sensation and for several minutes both just enjoyed their closeness.

"You mustn't blame Dani." Willow started again. "She endured months of what happened to us and worse and she was mortal at the time."

"Yes. She was captured and kept as a pet by the Master for months before she was turned. She would have died, if Xander, her best friend, hadn't stepped in. Dani knows first hand how cruel and sadistic the Master is. She's afraid."

"Like I was." Faith said understanding. "When Kakistos…let's just say I know that fear well."

Another comfortable silence fell between them before Willow started stroking Faith's back. "When were you going to tell me about this?"

Faith snuggled closer, conscious of her lover's injuries. "I didn't want you to worry or blame yourself. Believe me, I've had much worse."

"Willow, it wasn't your fault. Watching him have you beaten and not being able to stop them, that hurt me more than a few strikes with a whip."

"No." Faith interrupted. "You want to know what's hurting me now? Starving yourself and not allowing your body to heal."

"Faith, I can never forgive myself for feeding from Ronnie. It's like stealing a part of her and it's not right."

"It's not stealing. We offer it willingly. There's nothing to forgive yourself for."

"Dani says it's because I have a soul that I can't kill but I really don't think I could live off another human being, even without my soul."

"Dammit Willow." Faith snarled in frustration. "If he comes back, you can't fight him. Do you want to be destroyed? I do all I can and he won't get to you without killing me first but…"

Willow reached out, grasped Faith's muscular shoulders and pulled the girl into her arms. "Please, I don't want you hurt again. Why are you so adamant about this?"

Trying to maintain a firm hold without hurting the redhead, Faith soaked in the feel of the woman. "How do you…do you…care about me?"

There was no hesitation for Willow. "Of course I do. How can you ask me that? I feel things for you I've never felt for anyone before. That's why the last thing I want to do is hurt you."

Dumbstruck, Willow pulled away from their embrace and her green eyes bored into the Slayers. "What?"

"If you feed from me, my Slayer blood will help you heal much faster but you refuse it. You would rather starve."

A cool palm cupped her face. "That is so not true. I don't want to use you like that. The way others have."

Faith covered Willow's hand with her own. "I have been beaten, whipped, raped and yes even fed upon, all at the whim of others. I had no choice and was nothing more than an object, something to be used and tossed away. I want to matter to someone Willow. Have someone want me, not just what they want to take from me."

"Oh Goddess Faith, you do matter to me." Willow admitted. "I guess I thought if I drank from you, you would think I didn't care and was like the others."

Willow could hear the strong beating heart of her Slayer; the blood charging through the body and the warmth it brought. She could smell the arousal and submission of her lover and her mouth watered thinking of tasting the coppery fluid her body begged for.

Like magnets, the women came together, lips brushing softly against one another, the intensity increasing with their hunger. They tasted each other, hands stroking the reminders of their time with the Master.

Usually when her urge to feed arose, Willow would deny it and push it away. Going against that, she allowed the hunger to flourish. She felt the change in her face and knew this was the last chance to stop before the wave overtook her. "Faith," she whispered against the Slayers ear. "Are you sure?"

Such desperation in one word and her body came to life. Her fangs appeared and instinct took over. Faith's skin seemed transparent as she located her target and honed in.

Even through the haze of desire Faith tensed as Willow began kissing her neck. She quickly relaxed as the lips and tongue of he lover caressed her olive skin.

Resisting the urge to clamp down, Willow strove to get Faith more relaxed. Faith's blood became more heated and Willow's mouth began to water. Automatically, the brunette tilted her head to the left, inviting Willow in.

Needle sharp fangs penetrated her neck, and to Faith's surprise the experience was a mixture of pleasure and pain. She groaned when Willow began suckling the wound, her entire body igniting.

Lava coursed through Willow and she drank deeply, feeling more alive than she had since she was human. Endorphins fogged her thoughts but she managed to keep control.

Faith held on tightly, signaling that she was a willing victim. The sensations of Willows hand touching and stroking her body relayed love and affection. Those same sensations carried her to a soul shattering orgasm.

In return Willow felt the Slayer's intoxicating essence flowing into her and she knew it was time to stop. Her body screamed for more, but her mind kept control and reluctantly she withdrew her fangs. Quickly she returned to the wound and licked and suckled until it began to close and heal.

Cradling her lover, Willow could feel her injuries healing and strength returning. Heavy lidded eyes looked up at her. "You can take more. I'm okay."

Willow brushed dark strands of hair from her face. "No, love. You've given enough and you're mine now. You rest and I'll have Jacob bring you something to help build up your strength."

Faith closed her eyes and Willow lay her down, pulling the covers over the girl. She watched over her for a long while until she slipped into a deep sleep. Then she got out of bed, dressed and went downstairs.

She felt better than she had in days but the fact that Faith's blood was the cause, gnawed at her. Yet there was also the warmth that was the Slayer. By consuming Faith's essence, they were connected now. Willow could feel her lover's emotions, thoughts and life within her. Such trust and love inside the hardened Slayer. It broke her heart to come to the decision she had.

Feeding from Ronnie had also formed a connection and although not as intimate and deep, it did allow her to track her down in the large house.

Father and daughter were in the servants' quarters, talking softly and were overjoyed when they saw the redhead up and around.

"We need to have a serious talk." She informed them and shut the door behind her. There was a mixture of curiosity and worry in the room as she sat down across from them.

Willow ignored his question. "I wasn't thinking. I did as she asked. What we both wanted and I've put her in danger."

"She is a one day Slayer and that blood runs through her. Now it's a part of me. The Master will sense it; he'll probably smell it when I get within 20 yards of him. How could I have been so stupid?" She finished the statement by driving her fist through the table.

"Besides the fact that he's Dani's Sire and she's mine. We're connected. He's the Master, Jacob and he knows that connection. It's the same way I feel them. I can feel certain things about the people I've…fed on."

"Not thoughts." Willow reassured. "When I came downstairs, I could feel you. My instincts just led me here. It's like following the smell of fresh cookies or bread." She realized it was a bad analogy the minute it left her mouth. "Sorry. Faith and I already have a link; a bond and I took a lot more from her than I did you. I think I can hide it for a while but he will pickup on it and soon."

Ronnie was still trying to grasp the concept of someone tracking her and then comparing her to a snack. After a second or two she managed to refocus. "We have to protect her, but how?"

"Giles was getting ready to leave Sunnydale when I started looking for him. Is that still feasible?"

Willow clenched her jaw. "No, I don't. But unless someone else has a better idea, I just want her safe and alive."

Willow rubbed her temple. "One day, yes, but that day is not coming anytime soon."

Jacob and Ronnie caught what and how she said that. It was an odd statement and one they planned to following up on but that was for another time.

"You know she won't leave you willingly." Jacob stated the obvious to get it out of the way.

"And the Master will think you were involved when she turns up missing and he does sense your connection. He'll hunt her down."

She had sensed the Slayer stirring a couple of hours earlier as she lay out her plan to Jacob and Ronnie. The sound of her lover's steady and excited heartbeat touched Willow as she climbed the steps.

Opening the door to their bedroom, Willow's habitual but not necessary breath caught in her throat.

The room was aglow with candlelight but still dim enough so that normal human eyes would have been unable to see more than a foot or so in front of them. The bathroom was lighter and Willow could see the nude curvy figure outlined in the doorway.

The tone of the voice sent chills through the vampire and she felt her body respond. "You should be resting." She said with little conviction and took a few steps closer.

With fluid motion, the redhead shed her clothes and seemed to levitate across the room to her lover.

Even in this dim light she could see Willow's almost healed body and it brought a smile to the dark slayers lips.

"Look what power you have over me." Willow grinned, referring to her fading injuries and hardened nipples. She swept Faith into her arms and carried her to the large, bubble filled tub.

Smoothly, Willow stepped over the rim and into the steaming hot water. Their eyes never left one another as the vampire eased them into the tub. Faith reclined against the wall of the bathtub, sliding down so Willow could settle on top between her legs. As the red head slid down, the rubbing sensation between their mons brought a sigh from both.

Willow brought her hand out of the water and brushed dark strands of hair from the Slayers glistening face. "How do you really feel?"

"Fine. I'm glad I could help you." Faith brushed wet fingers down Willow's back, sending goosebumps over the woman. "But you need more."

"I'll be fine, love." Trailing her hand down the Slayer's shoulder, she continued down her arm, over her ribs and submerged to stroke a firm leg before delving into the heat she craved. She found the cavern slick and wanting and smiled. "Seems you need more too."

Her hunger for the Slayer was worse than anything Willow had ever known and she devoured her. With her hands she explored and pleasured every inch of her lover, then began with her mouth. She consumed the brunette physically, sexually, spiritually and with some reluctance fed for a second time.

Faith tried to return the affection and attention but when Willow bit her breast and began to suckle, she simply gave in.

Lying in bed later in the night, Willow replayed the memories of their lovemaking. Both women were nude and her slayer's head rested on her stomach. The feelings this woman was able to draw from her scared and excited her and now she was going to have to live without her. Now was the time to broach the subject.

Faith took her hand and brought it to her chest. "I like it when you call me that. What's up."

"I'm glad. I also hope you know that I love you. But I have to ask you something and I don't think you're going to like it."

"You gave of yourself and healed me. You saved my life and for that I have put you in danger."

"You're the Slayer, or will be one day and that blood now runs through me, is a part of me. It's blood the Master will know. I am so sorry. I never meant to…"

"So we fight him." Faith interjected. "Or we can go away. There's a whole world out there."

"You need to continue your training. Giles was getting ready to leave town when we found him. I want you to go with him, away from Sunnydale and become the Slayer I know you can be."

"Because you're in danger and that's my fault. There will be a time when your full Slayer skills will be needed. You have to be ready."

"You're in danger too. What about your majick? You can come with me and we can both learn."

Sadly, Willow shook her head. "I wish I could but I have my own job to do here. I swear if there was any other way…"

Faith's head tilted. "Wait. Your job? You're not talking about the factory are you?"

The redhead's silence was confirmation enough. "Then I should be here to help you. Please Willow."

A cool hand lightly stroked a warm cheek. "You can help me but only as the Slayer. Yes I do have a plan but I have to know you're safe for me to work on it."

"Because I love you and I wouldn't do that. Please let's talk about it later. I just want to be with you."

Faith watched her vampire a few more seconds before she curled back into her and they lay back down. "You love me?" She repeated.

Willow smiled. It had taken this long and saying it twice for her lover to catch that. "Yes, I do."

"Well, it's only because I love you too that I'm willing to listen, but I am not agreeing to anything."

Only a few days out from her 'lesson' Willow decided to return to work but to start from home first. Faith had gone into town for training and shopping while Dani slept upstairs.

Things had quieted down and their argument was at least civilized now but fear still tugged at Willow. She had to get things moving along and fast. She was so intent on her work that when the phone rang, she emitted a slight startled squeak. The sun was down and shadows had begun dancing in her office as she picked up the phone. She froze when she heard the deep voice on the other end. "The Master is pleased you are healing well."

"Nothing a few meals couldn't take care of." She answered, battling to keep her voice calm and even. When Dani showed up the last two nights, she had brought dinner and Willow had taken advantage of it. Dani respected her views on killing innocents and brought criminals or so she assured Willow. Refusing to feed from her friends or lover anymore, she did feed until her hunger was satiated and she felt strong as an elephant.

"The Master requires your presence as well as your pet's tomorrow night at the Bronze."

Willow held the phone for a moment longer before hanging it up. She knew it was coming but had hoped for more time. This was his way of keeping her unsteady and it ticked her off as well as scared her.

"Time's up." Willow growled the next afternoon as she and Faith argued. "What about that do you not understand?"

"He wants to see us tonight. I might be able to hide your identity but I can't be sure. There is no more time for discussion. You're leaving."

"Only when I'm good and damn ready. You think you're going to tie me up and drag me outta here cause that's what you're in for."

Willow took a deep breath and lowered her voice. "Faith, don't you understand that the thought of him hurting you makes me want to die. When he finds out you're the Slayer, you'll think your time with Kakistos was pleasurable.

"Well how do you think I feel? I won't leave and risk him hurting you again. You are in as much danger as I am. So I guess this going to be a standoff."

Willow pulled her into an embrace and held her tightly. "I love you so much, Faith. And I do have a plan."

As Faith was about to speak, she felt a needle stick in her waist. Struggling to pull away from her lover she turned and saw Ronnie backing away with a now empty syringe. "What the hell…" She turned back and faced Willow.

The hurt and betrayal in Faith's eyes made Willow cringe with shame. "Why?" Faith asked as the room began to spin.

Like the warrior she was she tried to fight the effects of the drugs but the warmth and darkness held a strong pull. "Willow?" She mumbled before her lover's face was replaced by nothingness.

Holding the brunette close, Willow began rocking with her, tears running down her face. Ronnie knelt beside her. "We had to do it this way. It's the only way to protect both of you."

"I will." Ronnie smiled and stood up. "You have about twenty minutes before we have to get things moving." She grabbed her bag and one Willow had packed for her Slayer.

With that, the blond took her leave, making sure she wasn't observed leaving the house or estate.

Shouting and the sounds of a struggle awakened Dani. Sensing her child's turmoil, she leapt out of bed and charged through the bathroom door and slammed into the locked door that led to Willow's room. Hearing another crash, she burst through the door calling, "Willow."

Broken furniture, glass and other signs of a fight greeted her. Across the room she saw her twin deliver a fierce blow, seemingly knocking out her pet.

Willow straddled Faith's unconscious form and gently wrapped her hands around the Slayer's slim neck. "Wake up you bitch. I'm not done with you yet." She yelled.

Dani ran over, dodging the wreckage and stopped short of touching her child's shoulder. "Willow, what…"

Her child turned to look at her wearing her game face. "I'm going to tear her apart one piece at a time."

Confused, Dani asked, "Why?" Up until now her twin had adored her pet. What could have happened to change that in such a short time?

Willow turned her attention back to the Slayer, pulling the limp woman up as well as the sharp wooden stake. "I'm going to do to her what she planned on doing to me. Stake the bitch."

Watching her child raise the stake, ready to ram it into the pet's chest shocked her into action. Her hand shot out and intercepted Willow's downward arc. "What happened Willow?"

Glaring at her Sire, she sneered. "She's working with the underground. When she found out we were going to the Bronze she tried to convince me to help her kill the Master. She said after what he'd done to me I should want him dead. When I refused, she turned on me."

"Don't kill her." Dani instructed. Having a soul and killing the person she at one time cared for would tear her child up when she came to her senses. "Take her to the Master. This may be what he's looking for and it will clear you. The Master will get any information she has."

Willow calmed down and Dani released her hand. "Yeah." She agreed. "I'll turn her over to Grandfather. I just hope he's not still angry with me."

"Not with a gift like this. You've proved your loyalty. But are you sure you want to do this? You did care about her and …you know how he is."

Looking at her Sire oddly, she let her face return to normal. "I enjoyed her, cared about her may be pushing it. What matters is she was going to hurt us and it's her or me. I can't go through that again Dani."

Dani nodded. There seemed to be coldness in her child and it saddened her. Much worse damage had been done that just the beating. "We should go soon."

Willow picked up the Slayer. "I'm taking her downstairs, chain her and put her in the car."

"I'll be down shortly." Dani replied and watched the pet being half carried half dragged down the steps.

Jacob had already pulled the car around and wasted no time in fetching the manacles his Mistress demanded.

Dani passed by the window just as Willow was loading her gift to the Master. The human still had not come to and she wondered if her child's temper had caused serious injury.

Dusk was settling in over Sunnydale and as Willow got out of the car, she looked up and returned Dani's wave. Moving back into the house, Willow was blown through the front door and Dani backward across the floor as the car exploded.

Shaking off the debris and glass, Dani stood up and returned to the window. The car was engulfed in flames and she could see the boots of her child lying in the doorway. She screamed and flew down the steps.

Jacob was already in the entrance hall and pulling Willow's prone figure to safety and Dani slid to a stop next to her child.

Willow's hair was singed and her face burned. Her clothes were smoldering and even burning in some places and Jacob hurriedly patted them out, his own hands getting burnt.

There was another explosion and Jacob threw himself over his Mistress' to keep them from any further injury. As quickly as he could, he then grabbed them and retreated further into the house.

He disappeared and Dani cradled Willow. "Hang on sweetheart. Mummy will make it better and I will find out who did this."

Combined with her other injuries, Willow's wounds from the explosion returned her to bed for over a week.

Dani hovered nearby; making sure her child was safe, fed and healing properly. Her twin's face had been blistered badly as had her chest and arms but with each feeding the skin regenerated except for a patch on her right shoulder. That was her battle scar and Willow didn't care if it healed or not.

As soon as the nights happenings had been relayed to the Master, he was furious and then concerned. So concerned that he sent a few of his best guards to make sure his girls were safe. He also sent a cleanup crew to investigate the explosion.

The charred remains of the traitor had been pulled from the wreckage and taken to him at once. After examining them and gleaning little information, he spat, chewed and then snapped the bones until only dust remained.

After what his grandchild had endured, the thought that the real traitor had been in his grasp and slipped away infuriated him. Unable to unleash his anger on Faith, two of his minions joined the growing dust pile.

Sitting in his chair, The Master calmed himself by realizing that it was his efforts that had made the pet come forward and expose herself to Willow. To his surprise and pleasure, his grandchild had maintained her loyalty and was bringing the traitor to him as a gift.

How had the humans found out so quickly? That was answered when one of his own soldiers was found near Dani's estate with the makings for explosives. The vampire had tried to make excuses about protecting his Master but in his fury; The Master had ripped his minion's unbeating heart from his chest before even asking the first question.

The humans had managed to infect his ranks and he had taken it out on his own grandchild in error. Knowing that the revolt was brewing, The Master reinforced his Bronze hideaway and allowed only the most trusted inside his inner sanctum. Security around town also increased and anyone looking suspicious was brought in for questioning.

During her recovery, Willow was quiet and melancholy. There was a distance and sorrow reflected in her eyes and Dani wasn't sure if it was caused by her pet's death or betrayal.

Weeks passed and her child's mood only seemed to deepen. Willow worked at the factory, came home and slept. On occasion she allowed Dani into her bed to cuddle but any intimacy had disappeared. It made her heart hurt to see her child like this and she even discussed it with Anyanka. The vengeance demon had offered her services but there was no one to punish.

Growing more frustrated by the day, Dani finally appealed to the Master. She explained the situation and her girl's mood without making him think either of them was weak.

He suspected that there were too many reminders of her pet and his punishment and that a change of scenery might help. He decided it was time to open another blood factory and he would put her in charge of it.

Dani made little attempt to hide her disapproval and contempt for the idea. Her child needed to be close to her where she could look out for her and protect her. She tried to point out to the Master that it might not be a good idea to send her away so soon after her injury but he wouldn't hear of it. And so a little over a month after the explosion, Willow was dispatched across the country to oversee the startup of the Master's new project.

The little town in Virginia was civilized but also superstitous. The fact that new comers were moving in and opening a business was handled with kit gloves. Of course every disappearance or strange occurrence was blamed on the outsiders and 8 out of ten times they were responsible.

The new operation was much smaller and Willow kept to herself. There had already been a skeleton crew of vampires there to assist in the building and running of the facility but for the more sensitive projects, Willow was able to choose her own crew. Every now and then the Master would send her a new vamp to put to work and as with any workers, there were a few bad apples.

Her anger and frustration with Faith's absence grew daily and she directed it at her problem employees to enforce her authority.

Despite her best efforts to use the donor system, she frequently discovered bodies, new vampires or workers forcibly taking prisoners. After using threats and intimidation, she had been forced to destroy a wrong doer as an example.

The number of bodies and missing persons did reduce after that but some of her people were becoming more defiant and covert. Time that could have been spent working on her project was wasted on patrolling and keeping an eye on things.

Glancing out the window she saw and felt the coming darkness. But there was something else in the night air. A ripple that she couldn't identify.

Her first thought was that Faith had found her but she didn't sense her lover. As it grew stronger she realized it wasn't like she had felt before. It was power and not like anyone or anything she knew. Shutting down her computer and locking up the office, she pulled on her leather jacket and proceeded with her nightly patrol, letting the ripple of power guide her.

As she exited the office building, her mortal day shifts were quickly being replaced by the vampire night shift. At night she maintained a small group of mortals to work on her advanced project and they were safely locked away in another part of the grounds. Receiving a few grunts and greetings from the employees as she walked she nodded acknowledgement and continued to follow the disturbance she had been feeling.

It led her further from the main compound and back towards the vampires resting place. Her super hearing picked up voices and she knew instantly who they were.

More than likely her problem children had caught a human and were about to have dinner but who or what could cause the kind of ripple she was feeling. A small garage was located near the fence and she spotted a truck trailer parked in the shadows beside it.

A dim light seeped from the open door of the fiberglass structure and as she approached she heard a smack and a woman's muffled moan.

So intent were the three that they never noticed her leap up into the trailer or that she watched them for several minutes.

Paul was a tall, slender relatively young vampire. He had brown hair, green eyes and an ever present Cincinnati reds ball cap. He was the weak willed one of the group and was currently restraining their prisoner's arm. Holding her other arm was Tinker. Short, heavyset and middle aged, he instantly set to mind a dirty old man. He was a lot of talk and could be very sneaky but unless he had a lot of backup wasn't likely to start anything. He could however be counted on to jump in if need be.

The leader, J.D. stood in front of their prisoner, puffed up and showing the bully that he was. He still liked to wear his letterman jacket from by gone days of high school football. Blond hair with a bald spot forming in the back, she could see how he might have been attractive in his younger days but his demon simply made him ugly now.

Their prisoner drew Willow's attention almost instantly. The woman was maybe a few years older than herself, with long blond hair, blue eyes, pouty lips and a body with curves in all the right places. Currently, the woman was gagged and sported a few bruises and welts from the treatment by her captors.

The three of them seemed to be trying to keep the woman confused and unsteady. When J.D. spoke she understood why. "Gagging stopped her some but don't let her focus and use any of her spells."

'A witch'. Willow's thoughts exploded. That was what she had been sensing. Someone in tune to the mystical forces like herself and had been calling out for help.

The woman's eyes glanced at the approaching redhead, sensing her power. The movement attracted the attention of her attackers and the air suddenly became very heavy.

Willow said nothing but looked at each one of them, spending a few moments studying them.

J.D. turned to face her and bowed his head slightly. "Willow. Sorry we disturbed you."

"More likely sorry you got caught." Willow smiled. "Care to tell me what's going on? I know after my warnings and directives you boys aren't up to no good."

"Course not." Tinker spoke up. "We got her fair and square. A gift from a loyal mortal servant."

"A gift? And what did you do to deserve such a fine reward?" Willow's eyes locked on the blonde's and saw the tears and humiliation and it caused her anger to stir.

"Her brother gave her to us to leave him and his father alone." Tinker supplied.

J.D. was still watching the red head and getting more resentful with each word his friends said. "Boys, do you have to spill everything? We've done nothing wrong."

"I beg to differ." Willow replied and took a few more steps toward them. She knew that J.D. was a bit older than her but then he didn't have the Master's blood or the rage within him. "I told you there would be no more killing of innocents. It is not necessary and even the Master seems to see that. Are you questioning his wisdom?"

"Not at all. It's you I'm questioning. We hear the rumors about you having a soul and being a lover of humans. I can't stomach having to answer to someone that is a mockery of what we are."

Turning his back to her, he reached out and ripped the blonde's sweater open, revealing a pale, tight stomach and creamy white breast encased by a lacy bra. "We're going to have a little party with our gift. If she's tough she may last a day or two or until we get bored with her. Then we'll drain her dry."

His two comrades did not like where this was going and Paul started to back off before a growl from J.D. made him stop. Never turning to face her, he reached out to stroke the woman. "Yeah, I heard you leaned more toward that way but there are three of us and one of you. You're not going to do anything, but you are welcome to whatever is left over when we're done."

With unexpected speed, Willow moved and stood in front of J.D. Seizing his throat; she pulled a stake from her jacket pocket and aimed it at his chest. "I don't like sloppy seconds." She gave him long enough to realize he was about to die and then rammed the wood home. Dust crumpled from her hand to the floor.

She knew Tinker was the next threat and immediately turned on him, grabbing his arm. "And I really don't like people who disobey me or think they can get away with it." She yanked his arm and it left his shoulder with a wet snap. He looked at the stump with surprise and confusion and then back to her. Smiling, Willow handed him his own arm.

Paul had released the blond, who was now curled into the corner of the trailer, with her eyes closed, and he dropped to his knees. "Please forgive me, Mistress Willow."

"I will do anything you say and never show you anything but respect." He pledged.

She stroked his hair. "I'm glad you learned that lesson. Now take lefty here to the blood bank for a refill of Donor blood then get him to his coffin."

Not wasting another second, he grabbed his friend and the two scrambled out of the trailer and into the darkness.

Turning her attention to the shaking woman, Willow eased closer and took off her jacket. "I won't hurt you. I'm sorry you had to see that but it was the only way to keep you safe."

The girl hesitantly looked up, blond hair draping over her face. Willow kneeled in front of her and slowly offered the jacket. Looking at it and its owner, she finally accepted it and pulled it tightly around her.

The woman reached behind her and tried to remove the offending cloth but her hands were shaking so badly she couldn't loosen it. With wary, frightened eyes, she looked back to the redhead. Jerkily, she leaned forward. Willow offered her a soft grin and reached behind her to untie the knot.

Blond tresses cascaded over her hands and Willow was reminded of silk. Once the gag was free, she pulled away and handed it to the woman. "My name is Willow Rosenberg. You're safe now. I sensed you when you came to the compound and that's how I found you. You're a witch."

"A demon according to my family." Her voice was gentle and barely above a whisper. "But yes, I'm a witch."

"You're not a demon. If what those men said was true and your family …gave you to them…you don't have a safe place to stay. I'd like you to stay here. I need your help."

The blond gazed at her and Willow felt as if someone were trying to read her mind. "You have majick as well." The girl stated. "But what are you?"

It was a question Willow had been asking herself for sometime. "That's what I want you to help me find out. You're free to go if you want; I won't keep you as a prisoner."

She didn't have anywhere to go and the vibes she was sensing from the redhead had her fascinated and scared at the same time. She had heard of the vampire with a soul

and knew that this vampire meant her no harm. Were they one and the same? "Okay, Willow Rosenberg."

Extending her hand to the blond, Willow's hand was grasped in a surprising strong grip and she lifted the blond to her feet. "How do I know you won't bite me or try to turn me?"

Willow shrugged. "I can only give you my word and promise. Besides you can always use majick and turn me into a…" She cringed visibly, "…frog."

The blond smiled ever so lightly and Willow felt like she had seen a beam of sunshine on her face. "Can you walk Ms…?"

Soaking in the hot tub had relaxed her and made her realize how sore she was from the earlier manhandling. She found a pair of cotton pajamas waiting for her on the Queen sized bed in the bedroom. Hearing noises coming from the next room, she eased her head in and found a large office space.

Her hostess was currently making up a cot and deeply engrossed in her work. Tara cleared her throat, startling the redhead.

"Just some sleep and I'll be fine. You don't have to go to all the trouble." Tara said and motioned to the cot.

"I insist." Willow replied. "I'll be up most of the night and day and you need your rest. All I ask is that if you do go out, please do it during the daytime and make sure you wear my jacket."

"Well…" Willow hesitated. "Most of the workers here in the daytime are human and you'll be safe. Wearing my jacket will show anyone that may be a problem that…I've claimed you. Course, I really haven't and would never think to, it's just that, well, things here…"

The babbling seemed to suit the redhead and Tara nodded. "Okay. I understand. You're trying to keep me safe."

An unintentional yawn escaped the blond. "I'm sorry; I guess I am really tired."

"No problem. You get some rest and we'll talk tomorrow. If you need anything, just yell."

Tara turned and started back to the bedroom. She stopped and turned back to her hostess. "Thank you Willow."

How did this stranger seem to be able to make her blush and feel like a mortal again? "Get some rest." She smiled and watched the blond disappear. She lay down and took a deep breath. Her thoughts drifted back to her slayer and for a few minutes she felt guilty about the blond. But there was nothing there except hopefully a beneficial friendship and teacher. Closing her eyes, she saw her Slayer's face and slept with a smile.

She knew by the way things had been at dinner she would have a visitor after she went to bed for the night.

She dozed on and off but knew the instant she was no longer alone in the room. A barely audible squeak came from the floorboard just inside her room and then there was the smell. Sweat and desire swirling into the room. Trying to feign sleep, the blond struggled to keep her breath steady and not move. A long time ago she had learned that sleeping on her stomach sometimes discouraged but that wasn't the case tonight.

Rough hands seized her shoulders and shoved her over onto her back. She raised her hands in an effort to ward the attacker off but the bedcovers hampered her movements. In a matter of seconds, she was pinned to the mattress and smelled the alcohol on his breath.

His words were slurred and soft when he spoke. "You can't hide from me little sister. When you gonna learn that?"

She continued to try and dislodge his heavy body from her. "Please, Donnie, don't."

He laughed and she felt his hand grasp her thigh with a grip tight enough to leave fresh bruises in the morning. "Not a sound or I'll break your jaw." He warned and reached to release his belt and pants.

Bile rose in her throat as he ventured under her gown, cruel hands and fingers, pinching and twisting first her mons then up to her breasts. A small whimper escaped from her and he grabbed her by the throat and slid her down in the bed, rising to his knees. "I guess I'll have to put something in your mouth to keep you quiet."

Her entire body began quaking. Once her brother had attempted to rape her while her mother was still alive and her mother for all her sweetness and love had tanned his hide within an inch of his life. But when her mother died, that had changed. He started coming to her a month after the funeral and as much as she fought, he was stronger and could hurt her badly.

After his first visit, a trip to the doctor had been necessary. Although she knew her father was angry, he never asked who or what had happened. With no protection, the nightly visits had continued. Fighting only caused her further injury and on several occasions her brother had tied her down so she couldn't fight back.

In a couple of months she was leaving this small town and disappearing to a college on the west coast. It had been hard to apply to the school and save the money without her father and brother becoming aware but she had done it. A new world was waiting and that her lowly brother was going to …not this time. With an unexpected burst of energy, she flung herself against him, knocking him off balance and off the bed.

The element of surprise gave her a few seconds to change positions but Donnie, rolled and crouched, teeth gritted and eyes wild. "So you wanna play huh?"

"Leave me alone or I'll scream. Dad will catch you in here and you'll be in trouble." She warned from her own crouching position on the bed.

He smiled. A smile that unnerved her and he lunged at her, using his weight to hold her down and delivering a fist to her jaw. She saw stars and tasted blood an instant later. His hands were at her throat and he was straddling her now. "Can't scream or talk with a broken jaw. Give me a little taste and I'll leave you alone."

His hands tightened and breathing was becoming difficult for her. She didn't want to think what would happen if she lost consciousness. Specks of black began floating in her line of vision and she knew she only had a minute or less to stop him. Promising her mother that she would never reveal her talents, she realized now that she had no choice.

Summoning the forces at her disposal, she flicked her hand and sent him reeling across the room. He crashed into her old chest and she prayed her father would hear the sound and put an end to this nightmare. Just in case she readied for the next attack.

The sounds of her guest tossing and turning in bed, alerted her to a problem. At first Willow thought some of her bad boys might have snuck in and were trying to attack the blond. Easing into the room, she found it empty save for her guest, who was in the throws of what appeared to be a very bad dream.

Turning to leave, she stopped when she heard the woman struggle for breath. Sensing the terror that consumed Tara, Willow moved over to the bed and leaned down, gently touching her shoulder.

Still the woman fought and tried to get air so Willow firmly grasped both shoulders. "Wake up. It's only a dream…" was all she got out before she found herself sailing across the room crashing into and landing in the rubble of what had at one time been her dresser.

"No." Tara shouted and sat up in bed. Her eyes darted wildly for a moment until she realized she was free of the dream. Taking a breath, it hitched in her throat when she saw the red head crumpled in the pile of wood and clothing.

Realizing what she'd done, she jumped out of bed and rushed over to the injured woman. "I'm sorry. Are you okay?"

Willow shook the cobwebs from her brain and went to stand up. A shredding pain coursed through her back and she went back down. "I don't think so."

Gently, Tara helped Willow to her feet and then over to the bed. Turning on the lamp, she saw the injury and gasped. A large section of the wood corner had broken off and pierced the Vampire's lower back. "Oh Goddess, I'm sorry. You need a doctor."

Jaws clenched, it was obvious that the vampire was in pain but she tried to mask it. "Are you okay? That must have been some dream." Feeling weak, Willow lay across the bed on her stomach and grunted as she settled. "It's better if no one knows I'm hurt. Do you think you can remove it? There aren't any good vampire doctors around here."

"There are bandages and a first aid kit in the bathroom. You'll have to get a good grip on it and pull it out. If there are any splinters, those will have to come out too. Are you sure you're up to this?" Willow questioned, the pain becoming almost overpowering.

"Yes." Tara answered more confident now. "But first something for the pain." She rubbed her hands together and then began whispering in a language that sounded like Greek to Willow.

Willow felt heat soaking into her wounded back and as it faded so did the pain. Her breathing eased some and she looked over her shoulder at the blond. "Good majick. I'm guessing that's what hit me while you were having that nightmare as well."

The blond stared at her for a moment, fearful that she had exposed her secret to this vampire. Yet there was something that told her she was in no danger of exposure from this woman. "Yes." She said simply. Moving rapidly, the blond went into the bathroom and after several minutes of what sounded like rummaging, she reappeared with an armload of medical supplies.

Laying them out, she then took a pair of scissors from the kit and cut Willows black shirt up the back. A steady stream of blood was oozing from the wound but what shocked the witch more were the scars zigzagged across the redhead's back.

Willow sensed the hesitation. "Punishment from the Master. I'll tell you the story later if you want. And you could tell me about your nightmare if you want."

"I'd like to hear that story but right now, let's get this bleeding stopped." Grabbing a towel, she tossed it over her shoulder and took a deep breath. Firmly, she took hold of the wood and readied herself. "Okay on the count of 3."

back. Dropping it to the floor, she used the towel to staunch the blood flow. Looking up, she saw that her host had passed out during the removal. Tenderly, she ran her hand over the woman's scared back and then returned to tending the wound.

The world was hazy but starting to become clear as Willow regained consciousness. Her back throbbed where the injury was but she could tell that all the wood had been removed and she was beginning to heal. Taking in her surroundings she found that she was still in bed and felt a patch of warmth on her back.

Turning her head to the other side, she saw the beautiful face of her caregiver. Tara's eyes were closed and her breathing was slow with sleep. The warmth came from her hand, lying on Willow protectively.

Sensing her patient was awake, Tara opened her eyes to find hazel green eyes watching her. The vampire's eyes were like pools of calm but Tara could also see the pain reflected there as well. It wasn't the physical pain of her wound but a deep soul penetrating ache and against her better judgment Tara found herself feeling sympathy for the woman.

Slowly Willow rolled just enough to keep from hurting her back but so that she could better see the blond. "It was an accident. Unless I was the one you were fighting in your nightmare."

Fragments of the dream slithered back to her memory and she pushed herself up and into a sitting position. Blond hair spilled over her face like a mask to hide her from the world. "No, it wasn't you. It was a different kind of monster."

Seeing that her guest was becoming uncomfortable, Willow stopped her. "It's okay Tara. You don't have to explain or say anything."

"After what I did to you I owe you an explanation. Plus you saved my life last night."

Willow shrugged, the action pulling her back and making her wince slightly. "You don't owe me anything. I'm sorry those idiots hurt you and I try to protect people from animals like that. As for the dream, you were defending yourself and I got in the way."

"Soul?" Willow supplied. "For all the good it does me, but yes I was turned and left with my soul."

Tara couldn't imagine needing to kill and feed and it going against everything you believed. The rumors were that this vampire tried to help humans and prevent death but it was an almost impossible task. "I'm sorry. It must be very hard for you."

"I try to only take donor blood or animals but there are times…" Now Willow dropped her head. "…times when I need living blood. Like when I get hurt." She saw the flash of concern on Tara's face. "Don't be afraid. I won't hurt you. When I need…more…I try to take someone evil, like a criminal or one of the Master's human servants. I'm sorry."

A vampire apologizing for her deeds was the last thing Tara expected. In fact she was surprised she was still alive. Her thoughts of her brother returned and she shivered. "We all do what we have to."

"That's how I got the marks on my back." Willow explained. "Trying to help humans and protect them. The Master thought I was too gentle on them so he had me punished and used as an example."

The sheet was pulled up, but scars were still visible on her upper back and shoulders. Tara looked over them and ran a gentle hand along her upper back. "You were also protecting someone."

Surprised at the perception, Willow pushed up, again sending pain through her body from her wound. "How…what…uh…you can tell that from a touch?"

Tara urged her to lie back down. "When it's someone you care about yes. You have a connection. Love."

The last word was said with such sadness, that Willow couldn't miss it. "I had to give her up to save her." She admitted, putting voice to it for the first time. She was about to put her face down into the pillows when Tara softly spoke.

"My brother." She said hesitantly. "The monster was my brother. After my Mom died, he would…come into my room…and…I tried to stop him…"

Ignoring her pain, Willow did sit up and turned to face the pale blond. Reaching out, she laid a hand of support on the young woman's upper arm. "It's okay. I understand. If you want to talk we can but don't put yourself through the memories."

When Tara looked up, her blue eyes were brimming with tears. "I was sorta relieved when Donnie gave me to the vampires. I knew he couldn't hurt me anymore and didn't really care what they did to me. All that mattered was that I was free."

Without thinking Willow pulled her into a hug. Not bothered by the fact that the woman holding her was a vampire, Tara clung to her, allowing herself to release all the fear and repulsion she had held in for so long.

Willow was also taking comfort in the embrace. Her life seemed just as meaningless without Faith but she had to keep going. Her plan had to succeed or her sacrifice would be for naught.

Time passed and eventually, the two women parted. Both were cried out and red-eyed. Sniffling, they were also embarrassed by the display and mumbled thanks to each other. Realizing Willow was sitting up, Tara quickly admonished her. "Lay back down. You need to take care of your back."

Willow shook her head. "I need to go out for a bit and get something to help me heal. Will you be okay until I get back?"

Tara thought about what the red head was saying and tried to ignore the implications. "Yes. I'll be fine. Is there anything I can do?"

Easing out of bed, Willow staggered over to the remnants of her dresser and plucked out a black shirt and pair of jeans. "No. I won't be long. But when you're ready I would like to talk to you about training me."

"Of course." The blond nodded but was puzzled. She knew the vampire had majick within her but feared what that focused power along with her vampire powers would be like. It could be devastating if used against mortals.

As if reading her mind, Willow offered a reassuring smile. "Don't worry. I don't use my powers for evil. I'll explain when I get back." Moving slowly but surely, Willow left the apartment.

At some point during Willow's absence, Tara had drifted off to sleep again. There were no dreams this time but she did awaken to a familiar smell. Climbing out of bed, she put on her robe and followed her nose.

Willow moved around the kitchen, trying to keep several things going at once. Bacon in one skillet, eggs in another, fresh juice on the counter and toast bursting from the toaster.

Tara half smiled. The red head was still moving slowly but seemed better now and the irony of a vampire fixing her breakfast was not lost on the blond. "Need some help?"

Startled, Willow turned. The move was made too fast and Tara caught the slight grimace flash across her face. "Good Morning. I'm sorry I woke you."

"I'm not." Tara said just as her stomach grumbled its need for food. "Let me help."

Within minutes they were sitting down before a small feast. Willow had even brought in fresh fruit and muffins and Tara was touched at her consideration. "You didn't have to do this. You're still healing."

Willow reddened. "I feel better and you needed nourishment. What kind of hostess would I be if I didn't at least offer you a good breakfast?"

To Tara's surprise the vampire ate as well although smaller portions and very slowly. A comfortable silence fell over them until the food had been nearly decimated. Stuffed, the women sat back and both tried to think of the best way to start a conversation.

To the point, Tara liked that. "Most of my life. My mother and grandmother were…very powerful. My father thought it was evil so I was taught in secret but learned a lot. You?"

"Only a few years. After I met Buffy, the Slayer, her watcher got me interested and I seemed to have a knack for it. I studied some after I was turned but my Sire thought it was better to keep my power hidden."

Tara watched her closely. "You have a lot more power than you think. Your 'Sire' was right to keep it quiet."

"I had planned to help Buffy fight the bad guys with it until I came to this world."

Willow gave her the short version of parallel worlds 101 and her life before she was a vampire. Tara listened intently, seeming to hang on every word. When Willow finished, she remained silent for a few moments digesting. "So you want me to teach you more majicks. You must know that I'm no fool and realize what a vampire could do with that kind of power."

"I don't blame you for not trusting me. If you're up to a walk, I'd like to show you something."

Tara looked out the window and saw the bright sunshine outside. Seeing her unasked question, Willow supplied the answer. "I have a tunnel that takes me anywhere in the compound."

'Curiosity killed the cat' her father used to say but the red head and her story were too intriguing to ignore. "Okay."

Willow nodded. "I'll clean up here while you get dressed and explain as we're walking."

The tunnels were clean and well lit as she followed Willow's lead. "You see, I've been working on this idea for the last few months." Willow stated, moving at a leisurely pace.

"The Master plans on eventually spreading our kind across the world and make them his servants to help him rule. There have been some others who tried to do the same thing but he always stays ahead of them. The Master likes my process of using donors but it's more to humor me so I'll get these factories up and working. He plans to make some modifications to them once they are completed and turn them into slaughter houses. I know they have to be stopped before they wipe out all the humans."

Willow ignored the action and continued. "So I found some humans who could help me on a project. Something to poison and wipe out the vampires. Something to stop the Master and prevent any others from following in his footsteps."

"You mean you're going to betray your own kind? Won't that make you just as dangerous with that kind of power?"

Straightforward, Willow like that. "The poison can be controlled with a process that filters donated blood. If we can inject the human population with this serum it will make them poisonous to a vampire that feeds on them."

Tara stopped in the middle of the passageway. "So why do you need majicks for this program?"

Realizing that she was no longer being followed, Willow stopped and took several steps back to stand beside the blond. "Because the Master won't succumb to just poison. He's strong and powerful and I need any advantage I can get to destroy him."

"Someone has too. A vampire with majick as a backup may be strong enough to defeat him. If not, I can weaken him enough for the Slayer to finish the job."

The depth of pain she saw in Willow's hazel eyes shocked her almost as much as her answer.

"My world, the one I left, it wasn't perfect and there was a lot of evil to defeat but it was home. One person made a difference in my world; I guess I want to make a difference in this one. I've seen a world controlled by vampires and I can't let it spread. Soul or not, it's not in me to do nothing."

Trusting her instinct and what she had heard helped her come to a decision. "Show me what this project is and we will begin mapping out a training schedule."

She gave Tara a guided tour, allowing some of her associates to conduct parts and explain what their research entailed and how the serum would work. The witch could see that this was something the redhead had been focused on for some time. The human workers had nothing but positive things to say about the souled vampire and a few even expressed concerns that she might accidentally be poisoned by her own plan.

Several hours later she noticed Willow seemed to be running out of energy and she asked to return to the apartment. Her curiosity had been satiated and she was anxious to get to work. Walking down the tunnel, she noticed a bloody patch soaking through Willow's shirt and upon returning to the apartment, insisted on checking out the wound.

It looked much better than it had when it happened but it was still a far way from being healed. She changed the bandage and made the redhead lay down for awhile, agreeing to stay and keep her company.

"Are there special things we need for our training? Tools or herbs?" Willow asked.

Tara frowned. "Most things are pretty easy to find. I wish I had my spell books and crystals. I don't have a lot but most of my items have been passed down through the women of my family."

Willow sat up. "Then we go get them. I'll go with you and make sure your brother doesn't…"

Tara put her hand against Willow's shoulder. There was a spark that glowed between them but both women did their best to ignore it. "Thank you but I don't know if…"

The girl was terrified of returning and from just what little Willow knew she could understand why. "No problem. I'll contact some of my people for supplies. Let me know what we need and…."

"We need my books." Tara admitted. "I'm not really keen on going back there but I do need some other things as well."

Willow put her hand over Tara's. "I'll get you whatever you need. I'll send one of my people over to get your things if you want, you don't have to go back there."

She knew that wasn't the truth. "Yes I do. If I don't I'll always be looking over my shoulder. I have more than just my spell books. Parts of me are still in that house and I have to get those back."

"Okay. I'll go with you." Willow stated and tried to get out of bed only to be pushed back down.

"No. You need to rest. It's still daylight out and early enough that my father and brother won't be home. I can get in and get out before they even know I was there."

Tara put her finger over the redhead's pouty lips. "I'll be okay. I could use a car though."

Willow sank into the sensation of pale skin on her lips. Hesitantly she nodded. "Keys to the blue Camry are on the table by the door. If you're not back in an hour, I'm coming after you."

"Give me two." Tara replied. "I want to make sure it's okay before I go in and believe me once, I know its safe I'll be in and out like that." She finished by snapping her fingers.

"Be careful, Tara." Willow said seriously. She didn't like the young woman going alone at all but she knew arguing would be useless. "Please."

In return Tara could feel the genuine concern and she liked it. Hadn't felt anything like it since her mother had died. "I will. See you soon."

It seemed like it should be later than three when Tara arrived home. The last 24 hours had been an adventure and she was glad to have a minute to catch her breath. She parked the car down the dirt road and watched the house for a while.

The house was nothing fancy. A one story ranch that showed its age and wear. A small barn was located out back and to the side of the house was the garage, open and empty at the moment. The blue paint, once fresh and almost alive on the house, had faded and was starting to chip in places. The yard was surprisingly well kept as was the garden behind the garage.

When her mother was alive, this had been home. Now it was a constant reminder of the emptiness and grief that encompassed her since her mother's death.

Certain that the house was empty and would be for several more hours she exited the car and eased up to the house. Finding the door locked comforted her even more, and after fishing her key from her pocket, she opened the barrier to the house.

The kitchen was a mess where dinner and breakfast had been made, eaten and left. Almost by habit she started over to the sink to begin a cleanup but stopped herself. For the last 3 years she had been the cook, housecleaner, and maid to her father and brother. An opportunity presented itself to take her away from that and she planned on jumping on it.

Slowly, she began, moving through the house, collecting various items and trinkets. Her room was where she kept her most valuable items and she picked up speed as she neared it.

Pulling her battered suitcase from the closet she laid it on the bed and opened it. Returning back to her closet, she dug into the back and from underneath a pile of old sweaters, pulled out an oblong wooden box. Taking it over to the bed, she sat down and opened it with reverence.

The box was handcrafted and showed some signs of scorching and scratches. Her father had tried on several occasions to destroy the heirloom while her mother was alive. When she died Tara made sure it was hidden well and so far had been successful. Slender, delicate hands opened the lid revealing an interior lined with a deep blue fabric that was almost silky to the touch. Inside were several diary sized books that reflected their old age. Among those was a velvet pouch containing various colors and sizes of crystals and also some bags filled with herbs and roots. A sterling Anyk that had been passed down from her grandmother was wrapped in one of her mother's handkerchiefs. Holding it made her feel closer to her departed kin and gave her a sense of safety.

Allowing the feeling to surround her she finally replaced the medallion and checked the final items in the box, candles of various colors, a scroll with some archaic markings and a small crystal globe. Check completed she tucked the box into her suitcase. Sure it was safe; she gathered some clothes and covered it quickly.

Settling on what clothes to take, she loaded them in the bag and then added the other trinkets and items into the case. Giving her room another look she found yet a few more items she wanted to take.

Knowing her time was running low; she finished her packing and with some effort got the suitcase closed. Willow had trusted her with her plans to destroy the Master and her own life and she didn't want to cause the woman any unnecessary worry. "Goodbye Mama." She whispered as she picked up the suitcase.

When she turned to leave the room, her worst nightmare was there waiting for her. "There you are little sister. Now how did you manage to get away from those blood suckers?"

His hand shot out and grabbed her by the neck, pulling her in close. She tried to raise the suitcase and hit him with it, but he used his free hand to knock it away, sending it clattering to the floor.

Using her fists, she tried to push away from him, but his grip was strong and when his other hand snaked around her waist, she knew she was trapped.

"You don't look no worse for wear, little Tara." Donnie smiled, his eyes wild. "Did you give it up to them vamps? Did they let you live cause you whored yourself out?"

"G…get y…your hands o…off m…m…me." She stuttered and continued to struggle against him.

He yanked her hair back, stunning her momentarily. "I think this just proves how right Daddy was. You are a demon just like Mama."

Pulling one hand free of his grip, Tara slapped him as hard as she could. Now it was his turn to be stunned. His blue eyes gleamed with anger. "Oh that will cost you Tara." He closed his fist and delivered a right cross to her chin, releasing her and allowing the punch to carry her to the floor.

Wishing she had let Willow come with her, she scrambled to her feet. The Camry was close and if she could just get to it…The thought was snatched from her as Donnie, grasped her throat and pulled her to her feet. He shoved her against the wall and with his other hand began pulling at her clothes.

Drawing her nails across his cheek, she left four bloody trails which only incited him more. The next punch landed in her stomach and left her gulping for air. As hard as she tried to fight him, she knew he was going to win but she couldn't and wouldn't stop fighting.

Suddenly she noticed his face turn red and he released his grip on her throat. Coughing and gasping, she looked up to see him turning away from her. "Who the hell are you?" He asked to a shadow.

Willow stepped into the room, game faced with glowing red eyes. "The one who's going to teach you some manners." Taking a step, her hand shot out and connected with his chest, the power, sending him ass over heels and sliding to a stop against the wall next to Tara.

He was angry and ready to fight but even he knew there was no chance against a vampire. "Sorry. I didn't know she was spoken for. We are family you know."

The menace in Willow's step was unmistakable. "I have doubts that you're even human, much less her family."

Willow was on him in an instant. It was his throat in strong hands now and she shoved him into the wall with such force his outline was left in the sheetrock and several pieces of the wall came down. "You have no idea. How could you…she's your sister. You useless piece of …"

Willow stopped when she felt a hand on her shoulder. Turning her head, she found Tara, eyes full of tears standing behind her. "Don't. He's not worth it."

Growling, Willow pulled him forward and slammed him again into the wall, puffs of dust flying into the air. His struggles were calming and his face was becoming an interesting shade of grey.

Again Willow looked at the witch and her anger faded. The woman had a swollen bloody lip and torn clothes but held herself with such dignity and grace, she amazed the redhead.

Willow let go of the human garbage before her and felt her face return to normal in a matter of seconds. Tara didn't seem surprised or afraid of the quick transformation. She watched her brother slide to the floor, clutching his throat and gagging to catch some air into his lungs.

"Are you all right?" Willow asked, reaching out to touch Tara's bleeding mouth but stopping short.

"I just want to go." Then the blond fell into the vampires awaiting arms, sobbing.

Holding her close, Willow turned her attention back to the pile in the floor. "You live because she chooses it. If I see you ever again, not even the Master himself will stop me from tearing you into tiny little pieces." Certain he understood her words; she leaned over, picked up the suitcase and helped Tara outside to the awaiting car.

They both heard the aging floorboard on the porch groan as they walked down the steps. As one, the women turned to see Donnie, anger contorting his features, charging at them with a butcher knife.

With catlike grace, Willow sidestepped, pulling Tara with her and allowed the boy's anger to carry him down the steps and sprawling into the dirt path.

Uttering an almost inhuman sound, Donnie, rolled over and scrambled to his feet. Dust covered his face and clothing and he continued to hold the knife firmly. "Playtime's over, Bitch. Now I take you both and cut you into little chunks."

A bright light suddenly beamed in his face. "What the hell…" He snarled, using his free hand to shield his eyes from the new brightness.

"Boy, I think you better drop that weapon before I load you up with about 20 pounds of scatter."

A figure stepped into the headlights of the car. The outline of the shotgun was very identifiable as was the voice that carried it.

Donnie did as instructed and threw the knife to the ground. He slowly raised his hands and smiled. "Evening Sheriff. What brings you out this way?"

He was a tall older, man that reminded Willow of an old west cowboy. Xander had forced her to watch enough westerns in their younger years that she had the mental picture frozen forever in her mind. His features were rugged and gave a definite impression of strength, but his grey eyes, reflected a calm and peace not usually seen in lawmen. On her few occasions of dealing with the Sheriff, Willow had discovered he seemed to be a fair and just man.

"Got a tip, that some crazy was out here attacking two women and trying to kill them. Judging by what I saw and heard, I'd say it was a good tip."

Donnie shrugged trying to capture his good old boy demeanor. "There's been a misunderstanding, Sheriff Payton. This is just a little family business. My baby sister is trying to run away and I was trying to keep her here until Daddy got back."

Payton chewed his lip. "Doesn't sound like a baby to me? Do you want to leave voluntarily with this woman?"

Tara glanced at Willow, still surprised at the events of the last few minutes. "Yes, until I leave for college." The last part directed at the redhead.

"College?" Donnie laughed. "You think Daddy is going to let you leave home? Girl when he gets hold of you…"

"He won't do a damn thing." The sheriff finished. Taking a few steps closer, the sheriff kept the gun leveled with the boy's gut. "Neither one of you is going to touch this girl again. I've always suspected you were a sick pup and now that I've caught you with your true colors showing, you're going to jail and not just for drunk and disorderly or fighting this time." He looked at Willow and Tara. "You ladies want to press charges?"

Willow stepped forward. "Yes sir. Anyway we can help and keep this young woman safe."

A deputy came out of the car brandishing handcuffs. He moved behind Donnie and pushed him against the railing of the porch. "Donnie Maclay." Payton began as he was being frisked, "You're being charged with assault, attempted murder and just pissing me off."

Once he was secure, he was loaded into the back of the awaiting car, glaring at his sister in an effort to intimidate her, an effort that wasn't succeeding.

Payton came over to the two women. "Thank you for the tip Mam. Tara, I'll need to get your statement as well as your friends but right now you need to get some rest."

Willow nodded and put out her hand to thank him. He noted the chill in her hand when he took it but she had not given him any reason to question her motives so it was overlooked. "Thank you Sheriff Payton. Ms. Maclay will be working and living at my factory compound. Please feel free tomorrow to stop by and we'll be happy to help you as much as possible."

He tipped his hat to them and went to climb into the driver's side of the patrol car. It vanished leaving only red taillights fading in the darkness.

The return trip to the factory held little conversation. Tara whispered a heartfelt thanks and Willow simply blushed. Upon returning to the compound the two women moved around the apartment silently.

Calling it an early night, Tara withdrew to the bedroom and lay down. Her mind was swirling with the images of the last twenty-four hours. She could here her hostess moving around in the outer area of the apartment for a bit and then heard the door gently close. Waiting a few moments, she got up and checked the apartment to ensure she was alone.

Satisfied, she returned to the bedroom, locked the door and dragged her suitcase to the bed. Taking out her crystals, books and clear orb, she prepared to conduct a quick ceremony.

Placing the crystals by color in a certain position, she was encircled and gently opened one of the books, found the spell, lay the book before her and lightly held the orb in her palms. "To those who have gone but know my spell and soul, I seek your counsel at this moment when my heart is heavy and my mind confused. Forces have entered my world which should be dark yet I sense light. The force seeks my aid in a mission that could save or enslave hundreds. I ask those who contain the veil between our worlds to grant me the knowledge of my ancestors and of your wisdom. Please send me a guide so that I may follow the path of light and duty."

A cool breezed caressed her face and she closed her eyes, leaning into it. Even without seeing, she could sense her mother's presence; even smell the lilac on her mother's skin.

She had always thought her mother beautiful but surrounded by a glow of other worldly origin, she was almost breathless. Porcelain skin, Long, black, naturally curly hair and the most expressive eyes that glittered blue and hazel. "Mama?"

The image seemed so sad by the word. "Yes my sweet girl. I didn't want to leave you, you understand that?"

Reaching her misty hands over her daughter's she stopped short, knowing that there could be no physical contact. "I am so sorry to leave you in that. I should have sent you away somewhere safe years ago."

Tara wanted nothing more that to look at her mother and imagine her delicate arms encircling her but she knew their time was limited and her strength was waning. "It's okay Mama. I…I d…did okay. I do need your help now and there are lives in my hands."

The specter nodded. "I've seen. What does your heart tell you? Not what you've heard or seen but what you know in your heart is true and right?"

It only took Tara a moment to reach her conclusion. "That something is coming. If I've followed you and Granny's teachings correctly, the signs show there will be a shift in balance and that I will play a part in it. That's why I'm scared. Is it to help or hinder and whom?"

Her mother smiled. "Sweet girl, we tried to prepare you for this and I'm afraid I let your father instill fear into both of us so that we question our own judgments. I can tell you that you shouldn't fear this woman. She is just as frightened of this undertaking as you are."

Her mother always had a knack for answering a question with another one and it made her smile. "No.. My heart tells me to help her. That it may be the only chance to keep them from taking over. My heart tells me to trust her."

The specter sat up more fully. "There will however come a time, when her sense of what's right will endanger her. She will need you then my sweet girl."

"It's more important you help her harness the power she already has within and use it well." The figure began to fade, her voice growing softer.

Blowing a kiss and mouthing 'I love you too' the mist was dispelled and Tara found herself alone again. Closing her eyes, she continued to inhale the lilac fragrance until it was but a memory. Then replacing all the items in her suitcase, she lay down and fell into a deep sleep.

The Sheriff had stopped by early the next morning to take the women's statement. Hearing almost the exact same story with subtle difference, he informed them of the court date and after making sure Tara was safe and content in her new 'home' he left the compound.

Exhaling with relief, Willow was pleasantly surprised and excited when Tara suggested they begin their training at once.

Seeing that Willow had indeed been tutored at some point sped things up and like molding clay, Tara helped the redhead focus and concentrate her energies. Within two weeks, Willow mastered every spell Tara had taught her and was showing the talent to easily bypass her teacher.

When they weren't studying, Tara had volunteered to help in the labs in preparing the toxin. The already overworked human staff were thrilled with the help and impressed with the blond's eagerness to learn and help.

Willow had reduced her sleep time to only a few hours in a 24 hour period but she insisted that Tara get plenty of rest. The women had become very good friends, and things flowed smoothly for over a month. One late evening as Tara took her turn preparing dinner; Willow paled and excused herself from the table.

The blond was more than a little surprised to hear retching sounds coming from the bathroom moments later. To the best of her knowledge, vampires didn't become that ill unless they had ingested something dangerous and her first thought was of the toxin.

Setting the frying pan off the eye of the oven, she rushed back to the bathroom, concerned and frantic. "Willow? Willow what's wrong? Let me help you."

There was a flush and the sound of water running, then the door opened slowly. Perspiration beaded her brow, and the redheads normally pale skin was almost yellow. She took Tara's offered arm and let herself be led into the living room.

Willow complied until the phone began ringing 20 minutes later. The red head snatched it off the table and pushed the talk button. Trying not to eavesdrop, she saw Willow's face fall as she answered the phone, sat up and took the cordless into her office.

Certain that she had privacy, Willow spoke up. "What is it Giles? What's happened?"

"She's fine." He assured her quickly. "There are some injuries but nothing serious and she will recover. There was a battle, a group of renegades. The girls fought so well and were winning until reinforcements showed up. Willow, Kendra is dead."

Her stomach lurched and the room threatened to spin. Kendra was dead. That meant Faith was now the active Slayer. Her lover and friend was now the Slayer and one with a big chip on her shoulder. "How long will she be down?"

She could almost here Giles shrug and take off his glasses. "A few days at most."

"She's angry period. At you, not so much. You realize she's going to head straight for Sunnydale and the one she blames for all this. She loves you and hopes by destroying him you can be together. I don't think I can stop her short of chaining her up."

"Damn, damn, damn." Things were coming along well and she had no doubt they were close to perfecting the toxin, but now she had to worry about a mightily pissed off slayer. "If I ask her to wait for a couple of weeks, do you think she would?"

She already knew the answer but had to ask. "A week maybe but then she'll know that I've known your whereabouts all this time and after kicking my ass up to my neck, will be on her merry way to Sunnydale."

She had to buy a few more days. "Tell her you have put out the word and may have located me. It will be a couple of days but your sources assure you I will call her as soon as I can and to please not move until she hears from me."

"Giles, I'm sorry about Kendra. She was a good Slayer and I know your training is what kept her alive longer in this time."

"Not long after she was called. She's made a difference here Giles and I'm sorry for your loss."

There was silence for a moment as he soaked in the new information. His voice sounded choked when he did speak. "Thank you Willow, for all that you're doing. I'll do my best to keep her safe until you're ready."

"I know and thanks Giles. Give Jenny a hug and I'll be in touch." The phone went dead and she hit the off button.

Taking a few minutes to gather her thoughts, she mentally ticked off things that needed to be done. First one was making a phone call. She dialed the number and waited until she heard a voice answer. "I need you to find someone for me."

Even before Willow reappeared, Tara could sense her turmoil. She busied herself in the kitchen and finished up on dinner. When the redhead came back into the kitchen, she was obviously distracted.

For the first time, she saw a deep frown on the pale face of her hostess. "I guess you won't be eating tonight." Tara stated softly.

"Something has come up and you won't be having dinner, I guess." Tara surprised herself how disappointed she was.

Willow offered her a weak smile. "No. We'll have dinner. I just need to spend the rest of the night and probably most of tomorrow in the labs."

Tara carried the dishes over to the table and quietly sat down. "Looks and smells good." Willow complimented but ended up just poking at her food more than eating.

Stuttering was her signal that Tara was nervous or upset and she focused on the blond. "I'm sorry Tara. The phone call was not good news. I have to get the toxin ready and dispersed. My time just ran out."

That the vampire had confided in her made Tara relax somewhat. "I'll help. Lisa says that we are very close."

Willow nodded and took a bite of her pasta. There was more than the obvious going on and Tara could feel the undercurrent of sadness. "Talk to me Willow. Is it your friend?"

Looking up, Tara could tell by the redhead's reaction that she was on the right trail.

As Tara nodded, Willow continued. "The Slayer died tonight and that means my friend has been called to take her place. I'm a little wigged out about it."

"You know you've really gotten good with the spells and majicks. Other than refining your skills, I think you're as ready as you can be. I'd rather you had a few more years to prepare and build but you're really good."

Willow reached across the table and placed her hand on the blond's. "You've done so much to help me. You're a good friend Tara. I know that sounds kinda weird considering the vampire human thing but I appreciate everything you've done to help me and your trust in me."

"They accepted me and gave me a full scholarship. Of course now I know that's because it right outside of Vampire U.S.A. but it's what I want to do."

Willow chuckled sadly. "After all this goes down it may be the safest place on earth. Or the most dangerous."

Tara stood up and began clearing off the table. Willow watched for a minute until Tara looked at her sternly. "Of course if you'd help, we could get to the lab even sooner."

Although she worked 24 hours straight, Willow insisted that her co-workers get rest. The toxin was ready to be administered but they weren't sure if the serum to protect the compliant vampires would work. Computer simulations would only do so much and as much as she hated what some of her kind did, she couldn't bring herself to test on them.

Her lab staff had already been inoculated and now blood samples were being drawn to try and complete the safety serum. So far the toxin was strong enough that it was resistant to all forms of the anti-toxin. Good news for mortals but not so good for Willow, Dani and any others that would volunteer.

Her cell phone rang just as she was ready to take a break and after a few brief words, she excused herself and left the lab and compound.

The small block of shops usually closed at sundown and now was no exception. Willow waited impatiently on a bench in front of the drugstore; her foot tapping a maddening tune.

Her senses had told her he was there even before he spoke and that had contributed to her restlessness. Turning, she saw the couple, even hidden by the darkness.

The woman was slender, almost frail looking, with long raven black hair and wide green eyes. She was dressed in a long, black evening gown with a dark red cloak over her shoulders. The man was taller and slender as well. A shock of white, spiked hair accentuated his chiseled, rugged looks. He too wore the basic black ensemble, including a long black leather jacket.

Willow held her place. She was a child of the Master as were these two but they were not in his favor at the moment and she would demand they show her the respect her station deserved. "I am the lady who seeks to employee you, yes."

"Huh, get a load of her Dru. A real lady we have here." The man laughed and moved closer, his eyes watching her closely.

"With pretty fire hair." The woman started to reach out but pulled her hand away. "This one will burn, Spike. She warrants safe handling."

Willow stood up and faced them, holding herself with confidence. "Yes. I need them fast and very discreet. I was told you could help me."

The blond pulled a pack if cigarettes from his jacket and took his time to light it. "Yeah, if the price is right and the situation promises fun."

"One of the Master's children, like us." Dru replied. "But not like us. You have a…" The brunette shivered with distaste. "…soul."

Spike exhaled a plume of smoke. "Kaksitos? I thought you and your doppelganger killed his cloven ass? You know he's the Master's most despised associate, right?"

"He's not dead and you know it." Willow tossed back. "In fact from what I understand, for a price, he was helped to relocate and keep a low profile while he healed."

"She wants to let them settle their grudge." Dru added. "She has some power and is willing to share."

"I can't run things alone. With those two out of the way, things will run much smoother but I will need someone to help me."

"So the soul isn't as squeaky as we'd heard." Spike grinned. "But I'm no fool love. Once their business is settled how do I know you won't double cross me?"

"This is not my world." Willow answered. "I want to destroy the Master, take my lover and leave this place. That's all I want. What happens afterwards is not my concern. The vampires can consume this world for all I care, I just want my revenge and what's mine and to go."

Dru glided over and stopped, her face only a few inches from Willow's. Cocking her head to the side, she looked into the redhead's eyes and with a cool soft hand, touched her cheek.

Spike tossed the cigarette down and ground it out with his boot heel. "What do you see baby?"

"Memories and haunted dreams. The ache to take that she loves somewhere safe and away from here. Miss Edith would invite her to a tea party."

Willow wasn't sure about the final part but this vampire was way too close for comfort. "Do you want the job or not?" She asked and pulled away.

Spike held out his hand and Dru delicately placed her hand in his. "We'll be in touch, Red." With that they backed into the shadows and disappeared.

Either she had just made the biggest mistake of her life, or they had taken the deal and she was on her way to the Master's destruction.

They contacted her within 4 hours of the meeting and told her Kaksitos was available for a meeting but after their last confrontation he was naturally hesitant. She agreed to meet him in a neutral place and to come alone in return he would only bring Spike and Dru.

"I think we've got it." An older black man called out as he held up a slide and smiled.

The other occupants of the lab gathered around, Willow and Tara in the lead. "Please tell me some good news John." The redhead sighed.

His smile broadened and he held the slide out to his boss. "So far this baby has able to squash every variant of the toxin we can throw at it. I think we have our anti-toxin."

Willow accepted the slide, holding it like a rare gem. "When will you be certain?"

The air was filled with excitement and hesitation. Willow handed it back to him and walked to the other side of the lab table. Her meeting with Kakistos had gone much better than she expected and now that piece of the puzzle was in place. But without the toxin, her entire plan would fail. There was only one choice. "I want you to begin shipping out the toxin. Make sure the underground gets it distributed within the next 48 hours. I want everyone here immunized as well."

There was a grumble of voices. "We can't do that." Lisa spoke up. "I mean we can start dispersing it but without the anti-toxin we can't protect you or any others."

Willow removed one of the test tubes of tainted blood from the nearby rack. She held it up and looked it over. Without warning, she pulled the stopper out and swallowed the amber contents.

"NO!" Tara yelled and rushed over to her. The others stared at her in shock and disbelief. "Why?" Tara asked as she skidded to a stop beside the redhead.

"We needed a test subject." Willow smiled, feeling the tainted fluid rushing through her system. "John, Lisa. Please get the toxin out ASAP. There are too many lives at stake to worry about one."

A wall of cold crashed over her and she felt the ache of death throughout her body. The toxin was moving much faster than she had expected and only now did she question the wisdom of this course of action. It was the only way, the only way to save Faith. As her legs gave out, Tara caught her and gently lowered them to the ground. The others started over to help but Tara stopped them. "You heard the Lady. Send the toxin out."

Hesitantly, they started moving into various parts of the lab to carry out their instructions. Only John remained close by and once Willow slipped into unconsciousness, Tara looked at him with tear filled eyes. "John. Anti-toxin. Now."

"I'm on it." He acknowledged and then turned back to his station and prepared a hypodermic, silently praying he had gotten it right.

The one constant was the touch of Tara stroking her hair and the murmuring of soft words.

As the heat melted the ice coating her joints she realized that her senses were beginning to respond to the outside world again.

Without opening her eyes, she could sense the bright light, and sighed when it became darker. Instead of the cold hard floor she expected, she felt her own soft mattress beneath her. Tara's voice was unmistakable and was becoming easier to understand.

'Coming to?' Yes, she had passed out. She had taken the toxin to test the anti-toxin and apparently she wasn't dead. That meant success, and with that thought, she struggled up through the darkness, cold and heat.

Tara looked down at the pale red-head, her breath hitching in her chest as the vampire fought to come back. "That's it Willow. Come back to me."

Opening her green eyes, she found the fuzzy images of Tara and Lisa hovering over her. Lisa was standing by her bedside and smiled broadly. "Welcome back boss."

Willow still had not regained full control of her body but she managed a weak smile. Lisa leaned over and whispered to Tara, who sat on the bed beside her patient, then exited the room.

Making sure the vampire was tucked in; Tara gave her a hard stare. "I should stake you myself for that stunt."

"Sorry? Sorry?" Tara shot back. "W…what if the anti-toxin hadn't worked? T…this plan c…can't succeed without you."

Now Willow knew it was serious. She summoned all her strength to answer. "Had to be done."

She felt a warm drop of fluid on her skin and looked up to see tears running down Tara's face. She held out an arm. "Come here."

Tara took the invitation and stretched out, laying her head on Willow's shoulder and curling her body around the vampire's prone form.

Willow draped her arm over Tara's shoulders and inhaled her fresh flower scent. She closed her eyes, feeling her body tense at the closeness, and couldn't resist pulling her closer.

"It was stupid." Willow admitted as their faces unconsciously moved closer together.

They came together like two magnets, lips softly meeting, and then opening to allow more contact. The attraction that had been there from the start could no longer be contained or denied.

Willow felt her energy soar and she pulled Tara closer, trembling at the feel of the woman's lush body against her own. Tara also held tight, wanting to devour the redhead like she had never wanted anything before.

Tara's tears continued. She went to free herself from Willow's hold but the redhead held tight. "It's not you. It's me. It's Faith."

"I know you love another." Tara replied looking down at the covers before meeting Willow's eyes. "I'm sorry. I should go. Please let me go."

"No." Willow argued. "You have to understand. I care about you too. I want to be with you but I feel like a rat because I love Faith. I don't know what's wrong with me. Maybe I should have died."

A resounding slap snapped Willow out of her self pity. She watched Tara, waiting for another blow. "How dare you." Words instead of blows. "I'm just as confused as you are. Do you think I planned on feeling like this about a vampire? You sweep into my life and I find someone that makes me want to live again. How can…"

She was silenced when Willow pulled her close and kissed her passionately. She only offered slight resistance before she gave into the vampire's want and her own desire.

Even in her weakened state, Willow couldn't stop the craving she had for the blond. She did love Faith. Always and forever, yet she also felt something very strong for Tara and could no longer deny it.

Tara's soft hand touched her lips and Willow slowed her attentions. "I only want what you are willing to give. I understand you have another."

"I wonder how the two of you are going to get along?" Willow grinned and kissed the hand over her mouth.

They undressed one another slowly, enjoying every inch of newly revealed skin. Willow's eyes glazed over when she saw the full, round breasts of the blond. Her hips were wide and curvy and her skin was clear and felt like satin.

Allowing her to take the lead, Willow lay on her stomach and squealed when she felt Tara's tongue and mouth on her scarred back, tracing the patterns and touching her as if she might break. The blond's skills were amazing and wonderful and brought every inch of her alive. Once she had recovered, she took point and, laying Tara out on the bed, began kissing and tasting every part of her.

As the red-head paid particular attention to the blond thatched area between her legs, Tara was overwhelmed by the sensations, and as she rode the wave up, was met and carried away by a wave of colors.

Two of her vampire employees were already dead within 24 hours of the toxin distribution. Slowly more reports of mysterious vampire deaths began trickling in. Willow wasn't surprised when her sister called with the Master's orders that she return home during the crisis.

"I understand Dani, but it will take me a few days to make sure the plant is safe." Willow said into the phone.

She was stretched out in bed, a nude Tara beside her and resting her head on the freckled chest of her lover. The silky touch of Tara's hair against her skin almost made her lose her words. With her free hand she stroked the blond's hair and back making lazy, swirling patterns.

"Yes Dani, I understand. I'll try to be on my way home by tomorrow night. You just be careful until we figure out what's going on." Willow pushed the end button and tossed the phone to the floor.

Willow sighed. "Yes. The first few deaths that drifted to the Master's attention were dismissed but now the numbers are increasing and fast." One thing that eased her mind was the knowledge that Jacob had managed to inject some of the anti-toxin into her twin rendering her safe for now.

Pulling Tara closer, she again sighed. "Yes. The Master wants all of us in one location to try and figure out what's going on. I have to make sure all the pieces of the puzzle are in place."

"And you know you need my help." Tara argued. "You've got half a dozen things going at once and you need some help so you don't get burned."

"Lisa can do that. Don't try to shield me from the world Willow. It's too late for that."

Willow tried to turn away, but long slender hands clasped her face. "You don't have to worry about me. I'm your friend and want to help you and Faith, not intrude"

Willow sat up in bed and reclined against the headboard. It took her a few minutes to piece together her thoughts. "I do need help but you would have to go back as my slave or pet. I don't think you understand what that entails. Not to mention that my last 'pet' turned out to be the slayer and so any new ones will be regarded with suspicion. To say you'd be in danger is an understatement."

Tara sat up and kneeled beside Willow, taking her hands. "I am very much aware of the danger. I also understand that when we met a few months ago, you saved my life and trusted me with your plan. I've never been involved in something this important before and I want the opportunity to fight for something I believe in."

Tara smiled. "It's you I believe in and you need my help. Someone that can cover your back until all these people are in their places. Please let me be that person, from what you tell me you'll have your hands full with Faith."

That was putting it mildly. She had already come up with a way to keep Dani occupied and therein lies the other problem. "There's some details I need to tell you before we do this and after you hear them you may not be interested."

Dani was bubbling over with excitement as she saw the car and truck pull into the driveway. Her sister had been gone too long and with the strange rash of vampire deaths, she was almost hysterical with worry. It would be good to have her home again. Even Jacob hadn't been able to hide his joy at her return.

Pulling to a stop, Jacob leapt out of the car and rushed around to open the door. Willow had changed little except for the more pronounced muscles she now showed off under her leathers.

Seeing a chain in Willow's hand confused her until she saw a tall blond woman attached to the other end. The woman's hands were chained and her head was down and subservient. 'Another pet' she thought to herself. It worried her that Willow had taken another pet, but then it also pleased her that the young woman had moved on after her previous traitorous pet.

Enough of the worrying, she scolded herself and ran to the front door, throwing it open and rushing out to greet her sister.

"You're home!" Dani squealed and embraced her child. Willow returned the tight hug, just as happy as her Sire to be side by side again.

She had dropped the leash handle and on cue, Tara kneeled down, waiting for her mistress to command her. Jacob had been briefed on the ride over, so he simply ignored the girl and went to give the drivers of the truck their instructions.

"I've missed you." Willow admitted before pulling out of the embrace. "You look great."

"Yes." Willow looked down at the kneeling blond. "Stand up." The woman immediately rose but kept her head bowed, blond hair falling to cover her face.

"I'd like you to meet my new pet, Tara." Willow grabbed the back of the blond's head and pulled her face up, sweeping the loose hair back to reveal her face.

Knowing there was a twin and seeing the twin were two different things. Tara managed to keep her face unreadable, a skill learned long ago when dealing with her brother.

Dani was struck by the innocent and earthen beauty before her. It was apparent that this pet was much calmer and less likely to be a problem. She stepped up and grasped Tara's chin. Instantly blue eyes dropped to the floor and she cringed as if ready to be beaten.

"Very different from your last pet sister." Dani made no attempt to hide her attraction to the blond.

Willow watched the scene carefully. "I learned my lesson after the last one. Tara has just enough spirit to be entertaining but knows enough to do as told." Willow picked up the leash handle and tugged it firmly. "Right?"

She handed the leash to him. "Would you please make sure my things are taken upstairs. I want to show Dani the gift I brought her."

Willow leaned in and kissed her Sire's cheek. "Of course, and I think you're really going to enjoy it."

Taking her sister's hand, Willow led her down to the playroom in the basement. The truck drivers had just brought a huge object in and were exiting as the women appeared.

"And it's all yours." Willow motioned for her to move forward and look at her present.

Dani took a few steps closer and peeked around the box wall to see bars. Next she moved to stand in front of the cage. The interior was dark but she could see something moving within, and suddenly a scruffy looking blond man appeared at the bars. "What the hell's going on here? What are you staring at bitch? You best let me out of this cage or you'll be sorry."

Dani cocked her head to the side and watched him in his tirade. He fell silent when Willow came up beside her and he saw double.

"They're brother and sister. I thought you might like him. He's very…spirited." Willow whispered to her Sire.

She said nothing for a moment and then turned to face Willow; her eyes alight like a child on Christmas morning. "You brought me a new puppy!" She tightly squeezed her child, joy radiating from her.

"I ain't no damn puppy you blind bitch. Now open this thing up or you'll be sorry." He finished the statement by shaking the bars of his pet carrier.

"Bad puppy." Dani said and slapped at the bars. Willow held out the key to the lock. "You like?"

"I love." The Sire stated and accepted the key. "You really thought of me when you got him?"

"I knew you'd appreciate him." She nodded. "I want to lie down and rest before dinner tonight, if that's okay?"

Dani's attention was focused on her new plaything. "Of course. You've had a long day. I'll just play with my puppy for awhile."

Willow gave the young blond man a final glare and saw the defiance in his eyes. "Enjoy Dani." And she climbed the steps to the first floor.

After settling their things, Tara ventured to the kitchen to help Joseph. He was in the process of preparing some of Willow's favorite snack as well as making a dinner tray for the caged visitor in the basement.

Tara volunteered to take it to her brother but Joseph was hesitant. Willow had told him a little about Tara's history and he had assumed a protective attitude towards the blond. After her assurances that she wouldn't get too close and only wanted to check on him, he relented.

Tara eased down the steps with a loaded tray. The basement was not dark and dank as she expected but it was no penthouse. The cage was against the far wall and she could see several candles lit but out of reach of the cage occupant.

Even behind bars and a lock, just the sound of his voice shook her and she stopped in her tracks. The dishes on the tray clanked as she fought to regain her composure. Taking a deep breath, she continued on until she could see him glowering from the front bars.

"I bbb…brought you s…s…some d…dinner." She said and set the tray on the floor, scooting it to him with her foot.

His smile sent a shiver down her spine. "I ain't no animal, girl. Open this door and let me eat like a man."

He rattled the cage door and snatched at the tray. Once he had it, he pulled it closer and began tossing items at the blond. "I cain't." He mocked. "You cain't do nothing but whore yourself. If you know what's good for you, you better open this door and let me out."

Tara had tried to dodge the food he'd thrown but her thin sundress was smattered with potatoes, grease and drops of water. "No, Donnie."

His face burned red and he held the bars until his knuckles were white. "You let me out of here girl, or I will beat you down to the ground."

He laughed and again rattled the bars. "It can be much worse, I promise you that." He finished by flipping up the remainder of the tray at her.

Stepping aside easily, Tara took a step closer as the tray skittered across the stone floor.

"The key's on that hook over there." He tossed his head at the post just a few feet from her.

Tara didn't move. "How does it feel?' She asked. "To have no control and be afraid all the time? To know that someone who's supposed to love you and look out for you instead likes to hurt you or let others hurt you. You have no where to go, no place to hide. How does it feel, Donnie?"

"We're family Tara. You cain't let them do this to me. Open the door and I'll go away and you'll never see me again. You and these demons can do all that sick sex stuff you want too."

For the first time in nineteen years, she felt secure enough that she could stand up to him. "If I let you out, you would run, but not before you strangled me and hurt someone else in this house. Since Mom died, you've terrorized me. Used, abused and hurt me. I think a little time in this cage might help you understand how that feels."

With renewed anger, he shook the door again. "You bitch, will know what real pain is when I get out of here. If you don't open this door right now, one night while you're sleeping with those devils, I'll be there. After a stake them, I'll take you until there's nothing left but an empty husk."

Tara looked at the key that was hanging from the hook and then back at him. "I won't let you hurt them. And thanks to Willow, you'll never hurt me or anyone again."

Turning, Tara saw the leather clad redhead almost floating down the steps and over to join her.

The woman was truly stunning and even more so in the leather that accentuated every curve and line. She had only seen Willow in jeans, skirts or something casual. This was an eye opener and she quickly looked down to show her respect and hide her approval of the outfit.

Dani was no slouch and caught the look. Smiling, she took on a demure look. "How do I look pet?"

Dani blushed but turned sour when a comment from the cage was spoken. "Yea, if you're a streetwalker maybe. At least the other one tries to cover herself up and I told you I ain't no damn puppy."

Satisfied, Dani walked to the cage, stepping around and over the debris that was once the boy's dinner. "No appetite? Maybe I should get you some bones or puppy food instead of the fine cuisine."

He watched her approach and although he tried to appear brave, Tara saw him moving away from the bars. There was also no mistaking the growling of Dani as she eyed him. "Puppy also has a very foul mouth. Mummy may have to gag it or perhaps remove your tongue."

"You wou…" He started to fire back but could tell by her look that she would indeed if he pushed.

Clenching his teeth hard enough to break them, he sat back in the cage, choosing to keep his tongue for awhile longer.

Dani's face brightened and she clapped her hands together. "Good. Now let's go upstairs and get you cleaned up."

Tara had stooped down and was beginning to clean the floor and gather the dirty dishes but stopped when a pair of long black leather boots took up residence in front of her. "Come pet, I won't have my child's pet messy for her."

Leaning over, Dani clasped Tara's upper arms and nudged her up. Dropping all that she had gathered on the tray, she stood up but kept her head down. Dani, tugged at her chin and once her face was up, she gently brushed the strands of hair from her face. "Such beauty." She admired. "My child has excellent taste."

Blushing, Tara, flicked her blue eyes down. Her skin was burning from where Dani held her and the whole situation seemed to be surreal. "I'm soiled Mistress. You'll get your beautiful outfit dirty."

"He wasn't very nice to you was he?" Dani asked, hearing the compliment but not addressing it.

That question made the blond wonder how long the vampire been listening or watching the scene unfold. Instinct made her replay the conversation in her mind to check if she had revealed something she shouldn't have, but it revealed nothing. "Most siblings fight."

"True." Dani conceded, "But I get the impression it went a lot deeper than that. He hurt you?"

Dani cupped the angular face of the blond in her hands and lifted until she was forced to look up and meet her eyes. "Very well," The vampire conceded but the words and _expression had given her the answer. "Does seeing him in a cage bother you?"

Tara looked into the green eyes that were familiar but so different from her friends. There was a sincerity and concern reflected there and she knew to be honest. "Some. I don't like for anything to be in a cage Mistress."

"You're an honest girl. I like that." Dani patted her cheek. "My sister's last pet…betrayed her. She hurt her very much and almost killed her. I love Willow and won't let that happen again. Do you understand?"

Tara met her eyes, and Dani could see the honesty in the blue orbs. "I would never do that to Mistress Willow. I swear."

Dani let go of her face. Slowly she let her hands gently slide down the blonde's neck to her shoulders, over her arms and settled on her hips. "I hope you mean that. My girl is very important to me and I want her to be happy. You seem to make her happy."

It was a struggle to keep from leaning into the touch and wanting to touch the leather form in front of her. She had been attracted to Willow and enjoyed her time and friendship with her but there was something so alluring about Dani that she felt her body coming alive. It almost felt as if she was being unfaithful to Willow and she could understand how her friend felt about Faith now.

Beginning to brush off the specks of food on her dress, Dani made sure that each touch lingered and more than once, she could feel the blond leaning into her touch. This creature was someone that Dani would very much like to know more intimately. She unconsciously licked her lips just thinking about the pale skin beneath the dowdy clothes. But she would never intrude on her sister's property.

"I need to leave now. Get yourself cleaned up." Dani said, reigning in her desire and trying to cool her heated blood.

Unsure of what changed the mood; Tara took a step back and lowered her head again. "Yes. Mistress. Thank you Mistress."

Dani started up the steps when she stopped and called to Tara. "Tara." She smiled. "Don't worry about the mess. The puppy will clean it up when I get back."

"Yes, Mam." Tara nodded and moved to follow the rounded leather clad bottom upstairs.

The Master had ordered a welcome home feast for his grandchild, and now his Bronze fortress was packed with family members and their pets, prisoners or gift offerings to the Master.

Music of various kinds could be overheard above the din of the guests and the sounds of their play. The Master had spared no expense and had the finest torture implements brought in for his guests enjoyment. He had sent out his soldiers to round up fresh humans for the menu and even had the place decorated.

There was an undercurrent of tension due to the deaths of so many vampires in the last 48 hours. That was part of the reason he had thrown the party, to take his children's minds off such nasty business for a few hours.

Willow had left Tara home with Jacob and was currently dancing with her Sire to a song with a strong beat. After several minutes, the women left the dance floor and took their seats beside their host.

The Master reached down and ran his clawed hand through Willow's red tresses, then lightly traced a line along her jaw. "You've done very well with the new factory, Willow. I'm pleased."

Dani rested her chin on his leather clad thigh. "And it did wonders for her mood."

Eyes dropping, Willow leaned in closer to the Master. "I swear I didn't know about that…bitch. I would have killed her myself if…"

His pointed nail stopped under her chin and lifted her face up so he could look at her. "If I thought you guilty, you wouldn't be sitting here now. She had us all fooled. I understand your new pet is more…domesticated."

Willow perked up a bit. "Yes Grandsire. I wish you would have let me bring her tonight. She is very talented and skilled. I still have some training to do with her but…"

"It's the brother that's a wildcat." Dani interrupted. "He's such a fun puppy. Misbehaving and not minding mummy."

"I'm glad you are enjoying him." Willow smiled, her tone relaying her own hint of evil. It was a tone the Master heard and liked.

"I do hope you can work your magic on this new virus." The Master continued. "My people tell me it seems to be spreading beyond Sunnydale."

"Beyond?" Willow repeated. "Well at least you know it wasn't some kind of attack against you personally. I'll start to work on it in the morning. My people at the lab are very good at what they do."

The Master signaled to one of his minions and two young men were led over and tossed to the twins. "Eat up and celebrate girls."

Dani and Willow exchanged glances and without hesitation, both pulled their perspective meal close. With fangs bared, they bit into the squirming men's necks, feasting on the warm wine that flowed from within.

The white haired man and his raven haired woman grinned at the host. "Evening Master. Sorry we're late, got into a spot of trouble but we finished them off." The blond stated and licked a remaining drop of blood from his lip.

The woman clung close to him but stared at the tall, balding creature before her. "Daddy's having a party and there's no tea. May I dance at your party Daddy? I do so love to dance."

The Master reached out and gently touched her cheek. "Of course my dear, but first, I want you to meet your kin."

Hearing his voice, Willow and Dani tossed aside their almost drained meals and stood up. "Spike and Drusilla, you know Dani, and this is her child Willow."

"Hello." Willow greeted and extended her hand. Spike accepted the offered hand and with surprising finesse, brushed a kiss on the back of it.

Spike looked at both of them and smiled. "I'll bet you two have an interesting story."

Dani moved forward and broke his hold on her child. "Been a while Spiky. What are you doing back in town?"

He bristled at the nickname. "The Master invited us, and since we were in the neighborhood, decided to be all civil and the like." He cast another look at Willow. "Didn't know you could get that kinky, cousin."

"Now children." The Master smiled, the energy of their rising confrontation feeding into him. "I want you all to play nice and try to get along. We have problems here and we will need to work together to get them solved."

Before anything else could be said, a scream pierced the music and noise. The crowd turned and spotted a young female vampire staggering away from a half conscious man. The room was ready to fall on the helpless man until the vampire started convulsing.

"It's the virus." A voice called out and the crowd pulled away from the woman and her human meal.

Several guest made for the exits as more screams began sounding and in a matter of minutes, the floor was littered with convulsing and dying vampires.

The Master growled and bared his teeth. "What is doing this? There must be something or someone here."

Dani, Willow, Spike and Drusilla clustered around the Master. "We need to get out of 'ere is what we need to do." Spike stated as he began leading the way to the back entrance.

Vampires withered on the floor, blood spewing from their mouths, eyes bulging as their bodies were burned from the inside out. The sounds of agony and death could now be heard above the music and laughter from before.

Willow shivered as they hit the steel door and plunged into the night air. The five of them didn't stop moving until they were several hundred yards away from the building. Spike clutched Drusilla close, she was lost in her own world and humming a funeral dirge.

Dani and Willow embraced, trying to block out the sounds of screaming and smell of decaying flesh and fouled blood.

The Master paced, his eyes glowing and anger seething, but underneath it all was a great fear. He had been alive for over 600 years and never had there been any kind of plague that would destroy a vampire. If anything vampires, thrived during these times, except for the abominable aids disease. But all knew to avoid ingesting that tainted blood and it was easy to detect. This was new and more deadly than the sunlight. At least with that you knew when it would appear and leave again.

He looked at his Grandchild and saw the horror etched on her face as well. She was highly intelligent and held no grudge against him from his punishment of her. She certainly understood that a parent must punish a child on occasion, even if that punishment is unwarranted.

Willow stood in the early morning darkness, her keen eyesight allowing her to take in the lands around the mansion. Despite her sister's best efforts, she could still see and smell the scorch marks in the driveway where Faith's 'death' had occurred. The ancient drain grating was still seemingly rusted into the concrete. The car was blown to pieces so the hole cut in the undercarriage wasn't noticed at all. The hardest part was finding a fresh look-alike body, but again fate had been with them and supplied what was needed.

She heard Tara stirring but held her place as she stood on the balcony and looked out the window.

Willow didn't turn around, not even when Tara rested a hand on her waist. "I had to drain an innocent to maintain my part, there were some humans there that had received the toxin and I got to watch it work in all its bloody glory. No. No problems."

Her words were harsher than she intended and she turned around, instantly sorry upon seeing the hurt etched on the face of the blond. "I'm sorry, Tara. It just has me a bit shaken."

"You did what you had to." Tara soothed and reached out to hold Willow's tiny, delicate hands. "I know you and I know the innocent was probably spared a much more gruesome fate than what you gave him. As for the toxin, was it that bad?"

Willow looked down, her mind replaying the gore and screams of terror as the vampires were consumed from the inside out, not even having the luxury of a quick, dusty death just a slow, pain filled meltdown. "There was so much blood. They were reaching out for help and the others shunned them. They burned up from the inside out but it took a while. I didn't expect that much blood."

Tara pulled the redhead into her arms and held her tightly. She could feel the slight tremors that ran through Willow and her heart ached. "I'm sorry Will. What can I do?"

Willow clung to the full body that held her. Tara was indeed a beautiful woman and in another world, she would have welcomed this wondrous creature to be a part of her life, as a lover and partner. But there was only one for her and that was her Slayer. Even if Faith hated her, she would always love her and want no other.

The ache that came from her missing Faith overtook anything else she was thinking and she sighed into Tara's shoulder.

For Tara's part, she understood that Willow was unattainable but she wanted to maintain their friendship and closeness. As such she could recognize the mood that consumed the redhead. "You'll see her soon."

"If she has half the brains you say she does she will. You probably saved her life and gave up your own happiness in the bargain. Things will work out."

Willow tensed suddenly. Grabbing a handful of blond hair, she pulled Tara down to her knees. "I said, I wanted to play." She growled.

Tara was surprised at the action but played along. "Yes Mistress. I'm sorry Mistress."

There was a knock at the door, and Dani stuck her head in. Seeing the scene, she didn't wait for an invitation but eased into the room. "I heard voices." She offered as an explanation.

Willow tossed her hair back and revealed her fangs. "I need to work off some energy and my pet had the nerve to sleep when I wanted to play."

Dani stepped closer to the two. Seeing the blond in submission like this, made her own passions rise. "Bad girl." She scolded, yet her voice was filled with sensuality. She had fun with her new puppy but she didn't want him in the physical sense. This pet, his sister was the one that stoked her desire. "In her defense, she did have a rough evening earlier. Maybe I could help you keep her awake?"

Willow normally would have feared for Tara's safety but there was something in her Sire's voice that made her hesitate. "Would you like that, my pet? Would you like the two of us as once?"

They had worked out phrases and signals to communicate safely and Willow was expecting to hear, "Whatever pleases you Mistress." The code for no. Instead Tara glanced over at the visitor and nodded. "Yes Mistress, I would."

Dani wasted no time in coming over and standing behind the kneeling woman, resting her hands on her shoulders.

"Uh." Willow stuttered, trying to contain her surprise. "Uh…fine then. She brought Tara up to stand and the twins began a slow, torturous dance of seduction.

Tara moaned as four teasing hands lightly touched her and began removing her clothing. There was no shame as the last piece was dropped to the floor and she stood totally nude, sandwiched in between the red-heads.

Willow watched the interaction between Dani and Tara and could sense that there was mutual interest between them. Dani's hands slid around the waist of the blond and came up, her hands cupping full, aroused breasts.

Tara leaned back into the Sire, savoring the feel of leather against her soft skin. Her nipples hardened when she felt a cool tongue travel from her shoulder to her neck and then nibble on her ear.

Moving her arms up, Tara slowly reached back and ran her hands through the Sire's red tresses. Feeling herself getting swept away, Dani noticed her child standing there watching and she pulled herself back. "She is yours Willow. I don't want to intrude or take…"

Tara's eyes met Willow's. They were glazed and hungry with a clear hint of begging for acceptance.

Willow smiled. "I'm just enjoying the show. Please continue. I'll jump in in a minute."

Without any hesitation, Dani went back to her dance, her left hand caressing down Tara's side, over her hip and settling into her bush of blond curls. Tara pushed against her hand, hoping for more contact but Dani was teasing and dipped her finger just enough to come away wet. She brought the finger to her mouth and licked the musk from her digit. Then she held her finger out for Willow. Willow eagerly accepted it and with her own desire ignited, sucked the finger into her mouth and used her tongue to stroke it.

"She's so sweet." Dani smiled and pulled the girl closer. "And she's got her monthly gift as well."

Willow had not even noticed the tinge of blood or smell from Tara. The copper wine scorched her mouth and she pulled away. "Is that why you didn't want to play?"

"Child." Dani said and turned the woman to face her. "You've nothing to be ashamed of."

Willow could see that Tara wanted to say something. "You can speak without fear in this room."

"I was afraid." Tara admitted. "If you knew…and fed…th…that…you might…k…kill me."

Dani eased the blond back on the bed and kneeled in front of her. "I don't want you to be afraid of that. In fact to prove that to you we will wait. Will that make you feel better?"

Looking at Willow and then back to Dani, Tara scooted back on the bed and lay down. "Your word is all I need Mistress." She opened her arms and offered herself to them.

Together and taking turns, the two redheads honored their promise and took her to heights she thought only achieved by majicks.

The feel of lingering fingertips and lips caused Willow's skin to goose pimple as she came to consciousness. The morning had indeed been an active one as the three women had given one another a true workout. More than once, Willow felt like a third wheel and finally she gave up and let sleep claim her.

Expecting to find the other two asleep as well, she opened her eyes and found the bed empty. A knot of fear and worry seized Willow and she jumped up from the bed, pausing only long enough to slip into a robe and she rushed out of the bedroom.

Hearing giggling, she came to a stop and listened for a location. Dani's room. Willow pushed the door open only to find Tara and Dani in the continued throes of passion. Tara didn't seem frightened or even reluctant as Dani slid beneath the covers, stopping midway down. "Yesss." The blond hissed and her eyes rolled back in her head. Her own eyes wide and in shock, Willow backed out of the room and stood in the hallway for a second.

Tara and Dani? Not to be making herself a big whoop, but could Tara be substituting Dani in her place. From the sounds and actions of the last few hours, she didn't think so. Next came a bit of jealousy, but Willow had been very upfront with Tara from the beginning, and if she and Dani could find happiness together, great.

Or it could just be the sex, Willow reasoned. Tara's high pitched groans and grunts as she approached climax, made Willow blush and she quickly returned to her own room.

Willow had remained unusually quiet that evening as she and Tara went to the factory labs. Tara on the other hand was cheerful and confused as to why her friend was in such a strange mood.

After getting acclimated to the labs and settling trusted workers into their jobs, Tara decided to broach the subject. "Have I done something to make you angry?"

Not at all convinced, Tara pushed on. "Is it about this morning? When Dani joined us?"

Casting a quick glance around to make sure they were not being overheard, Willow lowered her voice. "You just…surprised me. I expected you to use the code. Did you get the words mixed up? I mean you're an adult and I'm the last one to be a prude, it just …surprised me."

It was Tara's turn to blush. "No word mix-up. And I know you're not a prude. I find Dani very…attractive."

"Is it…it's not because…how can…" Willow frowned. She struggled to find a way to ask the question without seeming conceited.

Tara caught on to the line of thinking and stopped it. "That's not it Willow. I care about you and treasure the time we've had together and I do know you love Faith. I'm not attracted to Dani because she's like a second chance of getting you. You're alike but so different. You were wrong when you said she had no soul."

"No one without a soul could have made love to me like she did." Tara interrupted. "The Master hurt her and scared her but he didn't destroy her. You've seen it yourself and she chose to show it to me."

There were times when Dani seemingly possessed a soul and it was reflected in her kindness, gentleness and strength. It was one of the things that had drawn Willow to her Sire and made her leave her own world. "I get it."

Tara smiled. "Are you okay with it? I don't want to make you uncomfortable or ruin ours and your relationship with her."

Willow shrugged. "I only want whatever makes you both happy. At least I'll know that you both will be in good hands when I leave."

"I want too, yes. But I can't leave a world without a Slayer and she may not even want to be with me any longer. Some indecision here."

A shrill buzzing sounded signaling an incoming phone call. It was on Willow's private line and she quickly pulled off her gloves and picked up the phone. She listened intently and finally said, "Understood." before hanging up.

The staff of the lab had gathered in one of the tiny storage rooms under the lab complex and listened intently as Willow went over the final plans. Once finished she asked for questions or comments.

An auburn haired girl stood up. "You've been injected with the Antitoxin and are immune to the virus. What if another vampire feeds on you? Are they then immune?"

Willow smiled. It was a good question and showed that her people were on their toes. "One basic rule, Eris." She began. "Vampires can't drink the blood of something dead. At the very least they will become deathly ill. Otherwise it is fatal. As vampires, one of the requirements is that we die first. We may take an occasional nip out of one another in play or more intimate pursuits but no more than a drop or two. Biting someone with the toxin will, at the most, gain the vampire an extra minute or two before they dissolve. The anti-toxin helps bolster our own immune systems, but once it's absorbed, it's gone and can't be used to save others."

One of the other lab workers stood up to address the group. "Plus you must keep in mind that one dose of the antitoxin will not make you permanently immune. The idea is to use the donor plants and save mortal lives. Those that decide to attack a human being will be risking death. The only alternative is donor blood."

"What if the donors decide not to cooperate?" An older Chinese man asked. "We could be rid of these abominations once and for all."

"You have to admit it's a good idea." Eris added. "Given the chance, vamps would have sucked their way through us and just kept enough mortals around to breed new feeding stock."

A small blond woman and Tara rose to their feet. "Whoa!" The shorter of the two said. "This is getting off topic."

"We will not use the plant against those vampires that cooperate." Tara spoke up. "Have you forgotten that Willow is the reason we have this new weapon? You'll have to go through me to get to her."

"And me." The short blond said, moving to stand in front of Willow with her hands on her hips.

More than half the room began forming a protective barrier around the redhead. Willow felt her eyes tear at the show of support.

"She killed someone just last night and fed off them." Someone yelled from the back.

All heads searched for the owner of the voice but they had sunk back into the crowd.

"Yes." Willow said and moved through her wall of protection. "I was at the Master's last night and I did feed from a mortal prisoner. I didn't enjoy it and would give anything to have saved him. But this plan must succeed, and for that to happen, I had to play a part. I'm sorry but it had to be done. The last thing we need is the Master getting suspicious when we're this close."

Willow chewed her bottom lip for a second before answering. "That's the plan. The Slayer will be here and she's got the honor of killing him, but if she needs help or isn't here in time, then yes, I'll destroy him."

There was a general murmur of agreement so Willow continued. "Good. Now you need to get whatever you can carry and get the hell out of Sunnydale. Starting at sunset tomorrow, every vampire that hasn't been using the factory supplies will be dust bunnies and those that aren't will be ready to fight and kill. It will start on the east coast and follow the time zones. By the time it gets here, the word will be out and the battle will begin."

"He has a couple of old friends coming into town to see him. If all goes well, the two greatest threats will take care of each other."

"I'll get rid of them, even if it means my own life. No one else will suffer because of me. It's my plan and I'll see it through. I also have a backup plan."

The Master sat on his throne, his minions, scurrying around the room and making almost constant reports to him.

As he arose from his daytime slumber, he found his world crumbling. Vampires from the east coast and across the country were dying in mass. The 'virus' was wiping out his kin and children faster than he could make more. The human resistance had been waiting in the shadows and was cleaning up the vampires that were not infected.

He ordered his soldiers to kill all the humans they could but the towns were oddly empty. His protective force was now at a minimum and he had sent out the word that he wanted all of his family to come to the Bronze at once to strategize.

The latest word was that Spike and Drusilla had moved out of town and were fighting their way to the seaport and then out of the country. He was angry but had to admit it might just be the only means of escape until his numbers could grow.

There were sounds of shouting and then gunfire from the outer areas of the club. He stood up just as the door flew open and Willow, Dani and a blond human were shoved in the room.

Plainly confused, he stared at their stumbling figures and then movement behind them caught his eye. A cadre of vampires, all wearing a familiar uniform swarmed into the throne room and held weapons on the Master and his minions. The sound of hooves on concrete echoed in the room as Kakistos strolled in. He was leaner, with a nasty scar down the side of his face, a gift from his once favorite pet.

Kakistos rubbed his hands together and chuckled. "Almost was. Good thing your assassins were such lousy shots."

The Master turned his glare at the twins. He bared his fangs and pointed at them. "You betrayed me. Before this night is over, I'll bath in your entrails."

Shaking his head, Kakistos laughed. "No, no. Don't blame them. They tried and if it weren't for luck, I would be dead. Your little virus is just what I needed to make my reappearance and take over."

"You're not smart enough to do that." Kakistos' agreed. "But someone did and I think she's been right under your nose the whole time."

"You, yes Dani." The Master acknowledged. "But HER." His clawed hand pointed to Willow.

Dani looked at her child. She knew deep down it was the truth but her heart was controlled by fear. "Tell me it's not true."

Tara was standing behind Dani. In her skirts, she had tucked a wooden stake, just in case. She didn't want to use it but she wouldn't let anything or anyone hurt Willow.

Dani looked over her shoulder at the creature that had made her. The one that had tortured her, hurt her and took away almost everything she loved. She had done horrible things at his bidding and felt good about them, until Willow. Her child had never hurt her and was promising to stop the one demon that caused all her pain.

"Dani." The Master called, his voice smooth and hypnotic. "You know I love you. You are my number one. Be by my side, my child. I need you."

Never taking her eyes off him, Dani moved closer to her child and took a protective stance over her and her pet. "You're a bad daddy."

Choice made, Willow nodded. "I've upheld my part of the bargain Kakistos. Now it's your turn."

Standing at the doorway, wearing a black tank top and black leather pants, stood the Slayer. Her hair was pulled back into a ponytail and she was carrying a crossbow and sword. There seemed to be a glow around her and Willow almost ran to her right then.

"Faith." She said simply. The word was so full of emotion and love that even the vampires could hear it.

Moving with the stealth of a cat, Faith eased into the room. Her snarl was for Kakistos but her words were for Willow. "I have been dead."

"This just keeps getting better and better." Kaksitos bared his fangs and sat down in the vacated throne. "Is there anyone you haven't double crossed?"

Her fierce brown eyes fell on the blond. "Yeah. That's why you got someone new. I can smell her on you Willow, so don't lie to me."

"This soap opera is interesting but I have some people to kill, so if you don't mind." In the blink of an eye, his minions were attacking the soldier of Kakistos. The two elder vampires ignored the action and moved for each other.

Willow was in shock and barely noticed the action around her. Faith thought she had tried to kill her and that she and Tara were together now. She had to explain and with that thought started to make her way through the room to where the Slayer was battling two of Kakistos' men.

Tara held for a second longer and then released her friends arm. "I know you're hurt but we have to destroy the Master first, then you can explain things to her."

Dani's wide eyed fright helped to pull her through and hesitantly she nodded. "You're right. Keep each other safe, I've got work to do." With that Willow handed Tara a small remote keychain. "If things go badly, the two of you get out of here and push the alarm button."

Tara and Dani looked at the device and back to the fleeing redhead. "Her backup plan." Tara murmured as she realized what she was holding.

"Willow's rigged the building with explosives and just handed me the go button."

"I won't lose her Pet." Dani said firmly. "We have to make sure we don't need the big boom."

Together they plunged into the battle. Sounds from the fighting outside the Bronze were blocked out by the war within.

Kakistos and The Master took swats and hurled insults at one another but they seemed hesitant to let loose.

Meanwhile, their numbers were fighting for all they were worth. Faith flipped and leaped over piles of dust as she decapitated or fired off her cross bow. When the bolt was empty, she dropped it and began using just her impressive fighting skills with the sword.

Willow had managed to dust one of Kakistos men before getting a chance to watch her Slayer fight. She was awed by the ballet of anger and retribution her dark haired lover was dancing. Faith growled, punched, kicked and swung the blade in an impressive arc, each hit either fatal or setting up for the fatal blow to her enemy.

Faith saw the vampire watching and was awash in a new wave of betrayal and hurt. She would have died for Willow and deep down she understood why her lover had sent her away but she had wasted no time in taking another. Fighting back the tears, Faith began to fight harder, with all that her Slayer abilities would allow.

So entranced by her Slayer, Willow was taken by surprise when she was tackled from behind and smashed into the concrete floor. Trying to roll away, she was hit with a shredding pain that tore through her body. Her first thought was 'a stake' and she tried to see her Slayer one last time before she was dust.

A blur of black sailed over Willow and landed on the soldier that was wedging the stake into her chest.

Faith rolled the stunned man over and sliced off his head in one swift move. Dust filled the air and she scooted back over to the injured redhead.

"Willow?" If her voice wasn't enough to convince the vampire she was still loved, the look of terror on her Slayers face cinched it.

"Stay still. I'll get you out of here." Faith instructed and slipped her muscular arms around the slender woman.

"No. You have to help them destroy the Master and Kakistos." Willow argued but allowed Faith to help her sit up. "That guy had lousy aim and I'll be fine. We have to destroy them once and for all."

"This was your plan?" Faith asked. Sensing the approach of another vampire, Faith grasped the sword and in one fluid movement, turned and rammed the blade into the soldiers unbeating heart. The holy water soaked sword sent dust swishing over the couple and Faith turned back to her lover.

"The virus and all this, yes. I promised you I had a plan." Willow took aim and threw her stake directly into the approaching enemy, filling the air with more dust. "Fight now. Explain later. Love you always."

Willow accepted the Slayer's hand and was lifted to her feet. Pulling her in tight, Faith pressed her lips against Willow's and kissed her fiercely. With more troopers joining the fray, they cut the kiss short and split off to continue the fight.

Tara and Dani fought back to back. The Sire using bare hands and any weapon she could claim to take out her once clan members. Tara summoned her majicks and set a good number of vampires on fire, leaving charred ruins.

Willow took aim for The Master but encountered more resistance. She knew her healing powers were already in force but the stake had come so close to its mark. The pain kept her from full strength and hindered her from reaching her target.

In the center of the room, The Master and Kakistos were in full fight. Both vampires showed signs of wear. The Master's leather tunic bore claw marks, revealing putrefied skin below. For his trouble, Kakistos had lost some use of his arm and had a matching scar on the other side of his face.

The next ball of energy Tara sent out showed her weakening state by how long it took to ignite the soldier. Dani felt her lover sag and turned just as one of The Master's men tackled the blond.

The mortal hit the floor with a resounding thud that knocked all the air from her lungs and threatened to take her consciousness.

"TARA!" Dani screamed and went to the girl's defense. Fangs bared and eyes glowing red, she slammed into the female attacker and pushed her into the closest wall.

Stunned that the Master's right hand was attacking her, the woman watched as Dani punched through her chest and pulled back holding a bloody, black object in her hand. 'My heart.' She realized before disintegrating.

Letting the object fall to the ground, Dani rushed back to Tara. A nasty bruise and gash covered the left top of her forehead and the blond gulped in air, trying to fight off the darkness wanting to consume her.

"Behind you." Tara wheezed as Dani was attacked from behind by one of Kakistos' soldiers.

Baring her fangs and growling, Dani clawed the man's face open and punched at his chest. Even with her vampire strength, he was twice her size and managed to keep her pinned to the floor. Spittle dripped down his chin as he licked his lips. "I hope you're a fighter like I've heard."

"She is." A voice stated and the wooden chair leg punctured through his chest, causing him to disappear in a cloud of dust and free the redhead.

Dani looked up into the bruised face of Tara, the wooden weapon still in her hand. "No one," she said, still struggling to get her air back. "Messes with my girl." The blond held out her hand to Dani.

Willow restrained from using her majicks, wanting to save all her power to use against the Master. Skilled in defense techniques, she easily dusted the enemy vampires until the room was coated in dust and only a few of the most die hard fighters remained.

Faith's tank top was sliced, exposing her hard abs and a bloody cut stretching across them. Sweat glistened on her dark skin and tight muscles quivered with exertion causing Willow's heart to thud at the sight of her beauty.

Finishing off her target, Faith flipped over the heads of two oncoming soldiers and landed firmly beside the battling Kakistos and Master. Never missing a beat, Faith leaped up, kicked out and caught both vampires in the chins, knocking them off balance.

Moving for the Master, Faith began punching and kicking in a flurry of motion. The Master was hurt from his fight with the cloven hoofed devil so her assault was furthering weakening him. He threw his hands out and a nail caught her cheek, leaving a thin trail of blood.

Kakistos saw his chance and moved for the pair, sword raised and ready to dispose of his two greatest headaches. He hadn't counted on the third headache intercepting him by jumping on his back and ramming a stake into his neck.

The piercing scream he issued caused all the vampires to cease fighting for a moment and turn to see the action. Willow was shaken like a rag doll as he thrashed around, trying to dislodge her from his shoulders. The stake wouldn't kill him but if the damnable red head tried hard enough, she might be able to decapitate him and besides that, it hurt.

Reaching back, he snatched a hand full of hair and yanked with all his strength. It was Willow's turn to yelp, as she was pulled loose and flung into the air. The next sensation was one of flying before crashing to the ground.

Fangs chattering, she landed with enough force that she bit through her lip, sending a spray of blood down her chin. Kakistos moved fast, and was kneeling down, holding her in place with one hand and spewing droplets of blood in her face as he spoke. "Little bitch. I knew you couldn't be trusted. If you betrayed the Master how could I expect you to stay loyal to me? Vile, treacherous, human loving, bitch."

Rearing back his fist, he prepared to deliver a punch through her chest. Willow brought her legs up and kicked out, catching him in the chest and shoving him off balance. He tumbled back into the Master and Faith, the impact jarring the stake protruding from his neck and causing him to cry out again.

Faith shoved the Master away and turned to assist her lover destroy her former captor. Kakistos looked defeated as he peered at the two women from his crouch on the floor. "I should have killed you when I had the chance." He snarled at Faith.

"Faith…" Willow said but stopped when Faith turned her big browns to the woman. "I have to do this Will. Once and for all. To be free."

In turn, Willow cast a glance at the still reeling Master and understood. They both had their own demons to slay and the time had come. "I love you Faith." Willow smiled.

"Me too." The Slayer responded and smiled. Hardening her demeanor she turned on Kakistos and with a yell of rage, tackled him, pummeling him with a never ending series of blows.

A high pitched call of, "Dani!" caused Willow to turn her attention from her lover. First she saw Tara standing a few feet away, her _expression terrified. Following her line of sight, Willow saw the sight and felt ice flow through her innards.

The Master had Dani pulled against him. His choke hold didn't really affect her but the bottle of holy water he held, lid off, did. As her struggles to be free ended, a few drops of water, lapped out of the bottle and splattered against her ivory skin. The result was a hissing of burning skin and its unmistakable smell wafting in the air.

Dani clenched her teeth, unwilling to allow him the satisfaction of her pain. Though her eyes couldn't hide her agony as he tipped the bottle and a small trickle of the water singed down her chest.

"Unh, unh, unh." He waved his crooked finger at her. To emphasize the point he released another few droplets, these leaving a bloody trail down her chest. "I'll erase her face if you come any closer."

"It's me you want." Willow stopped. "I'm the one that betrayed you, brought the virus to our kind. Let her go and I'll take her place."

Releasing Dani's throat, he ran his hand over her leather clad body, pinching and slapping as he went. The sound of her bone snapping was very audible as was her muffled cry as he twisted her right arm. "Your soul kept you from learning the one important lesson I tried to teach you. Go for the hurt first. Make your enemy suffocate beneath the pain of watching those they love die. Then zoom in for their kill."

He brought his hand back up and seized Dani's chin, prying her jaw open at the joints. "Let's see how long it takes for her to burn from the inside out." He goaded and brought the holy water up to her open mouth.

"Incindre'" Tara called firmly. The Master's hand that held the holy water suddenly burst into flames.

Taking the opportunity given her, Dani threw her head back and smashed the Master's surprised face. His grip released and she skittered away from him into Tara's awaiting arms.

"AAAGGGGGHHHH!" Willow screamed and crashed into his burning figure. He swatted at her like a fly while also trying to fan out the flames blackening his hand. She took his blows but it didn't slow her down.

Eventually, with one hand and arm useless, he skittered across the floor like a crab until he was blocked by a wall of cement. Willow bore down on him, in full vamp mode. She could feel the majicks within her and calling them up, she bent over and picked him up by his torn leather tunic and lifted him off the ground.

To his surprise his strength was no match for the young redhead and he was like a rag doll as she repeatedly slammed him into the wall. Finally, feeling her strength waning, she let go of him and he crumpled to the floor.

She stepped back and looked at him, battered and beaten, no longer the object of fear he was so proud of. She felt a presence move up next to her and reached out, taking her sister's hand. "Will you kill him?" Dani asked.

Dani looked over her shoulder to where Tara waited and watched. The red head seemed to be seeking approval and Tara simply smiled and nodded bestowing her blessings on her lover.

Willow pulled a silver handled stake from her waist band and placed it in Dani's good hand. Dani looked at the shiny object and then cocked her head and looked at her former Master.

"After all I've done for you." The Master smirked, blood oozing from his mouth and ears. "You wouldn't da…" He was silenced as she thrust the stake forward and pierced his black evil heart.

His growl was cut short as his body glowed before it disintegrated. Willow gently took Dani's shoulders and pulled her away. Tara moved up and wrapped her arms around the slender vampire.

With Dani taken care of, Willow turned back to help her Slayer. "Faith!" She screamed when she saw Kakistos slam Faith into the candelabra, the sharp wrought iron tip, passing through her stomach like a knife through butter.

Faith frowned, stunned and confused. Her hands went down to her stomach, touched the metal and came away bloody. "Goodnight Faith." Kakistos laughed and stepped away.

The red head had to get to Faith and didn't have time for Kakistos, so she called on her last majick reserve. "Barrier."

Kakistos moved to take another step and felt as if he were surrounded by a wall of tar. Pushing against it, he managed to move forward and Willow tried to summon more power.

"Go to her." Tara appeared next to her. The blond raised her hand and reinforced the field around the cloven hoofed vampire. Willow didn't waste a second and she leapt over the dust piles, sliding next to her Slayer.

"Faith?" Willow called. The woman lay on her side, the iron spear cruelly ripping through her.

Steeling herself, Willow swallowed hard, put one hand on Faith's shoulder and with the other quickly yanked the offending object out of her lover's body. The sound of the flesh being torn made Willow's stomach churn but she forced it back and wrapped her Slayer in her arms and pulled her close.

Faith looked up at her, shedding tears that were mingled with blood. Willow rocked her gently. "It's okay baby. You'll be fine. I'm here now and I won't let anything hurt you. Please just hang on Faith."

"Be happy with her." Faith sighed, grasping firmly onto Willow's arm, her face crinkling with pain.

Willow's tears flowed and she wiped them away to keep them from dropping on her lover's face. "It's you I want. You're the only one I ever wanted. Tara is just a friend. Please baby, don't leave me."

"I'm scared." The always brave Slayer admitted. "I thought I wanted to die until I saw you again."

Snorting, Willow looked at her firmly. "You're not dying. I'm your Mistress and I haven't given you permission to die. You'll be fine. We'll go away when you get better, just the two of us."

Faith reached up a blood soaked hand and touched Willow's face. "Always yours." The touch lingered for a minute then her hand fell away. Her eyes closed and she relaxed in Willow's arms.

"Don't you dare Faith. I can still hear your heart." Willow said and shook the woman in her arms. "It's still beating, so just hold on."

Looking up, she saw Tara and Dani kneeling beside her. Over their shoulders she could see Kakistos still trying to break his barrier. "Take care of her." Willow instructed and with great tenderness, let Tara hold her lover.

She stood up, covered with dust and the blood of her sister and lover as well as herself. Bending down, she picked up the sword the Slayer had been using and walked over to Kakistos.

Her vampire face held a rage that caught him off guard. With each step closer she got, he attempted and failed to move away. With a wave of her hand the barrier vanished and she raised the sword.

Kakistos quickly scanned the room and located one of the Master's whips. With surprising skill, he swung it and landed a direct hit on Willow's thigh. She never slowed as he readied another hit and kept trying to move away from her.

The next strike caught her face and then her chest. As he swung for the fourth time, she reached up and seized the whip in mid-air, its coil wrapping around her hand, tearing flesh in the process.

Kakistos tried to yank it back under his control but with one fell swish, she cut the braided weapon and tossed its tail aside. Not loosing her stride, she stooped over and retrieved another whip and began her own target practice. Although not as adept with the weapon, she managed to lay open his skin at his leg and shoulder before he ran out of room and was cornered.

Willow felt a cold chill envelope her and she knew that Faith was gone. Releasing a fury she never thought she could feel she began swinging the blade and the whip. Her arms moved like a windmill and within a few minutes, Kaksitos was cut into shreds, unable to do anything but scream out expletives and idle threats. Taking a stance over him, she raised the sword one last time and rammed it into his chest with so much force; it merged with the stone floor beneath him.

The final cry he emitted was one of anger instead of pain and he exploded into ashes. Willow looked at the falling cloud of dust, no longer aware of her surroundings or even caring.

The room was empty save for the twins, the witch and the cooling body of the Slayer. Turning, she looked at the other two, hovering over the body resting on the ground. Dropping to her knees she howled out with grief and pain before bringing the vial of holy water to her own lips and readying to drink.

"NO!" Tara scolded and pushed off the floor, trying to reach Willow before she succeeded in destroying herself. She slid into the woman, knocking her to the ground and sending the vial of water flying over the ashes of Kaksitos.

Willow's body was trembling and Tara could feel the desire for death radiating from her. She held the thin woman in her arms and cradled her close, uttering soothing nonsense words in hopes of easing her grief. After a few minutes, tears racked the red head's body.

The entire household had gone into a short hibernation while they let their battle wounds heal. Joseph and Ronnie had maintained a constant vigil and tended to all their needs.

The battle had been successful and for the first time in years, Sunnydale and the other towns scattered across the United States were free of the vampire influence. The underground were in the process of working out a peace treaty with the vampires that agreed to live off the factory generated blood and not humans. Despite the distrust and fear, things were moving along nicely.

Consciousness began raising Willow from her welcomed darkness. At first she was only aware of the physical pain but when her memories returned, she felt as if she had been hollowed out. With her eyes closed she continued to see Faith falling and holding her Slayer in her arms as her life faded. She couldn't stop the sob that escaped her.

A soft groan beside her silenced her. Allowing her senses to emerge she could now tell that there was a presence lying next to her. Slowly opening her eyes, she found the familiar surroundings of her room. She lay, resting in her own bed and turning her head slightly she could see the outline of someone beside her.

Struggling to focus, her eyes finally zoomed in and revealed an attractive brunette lying peacefully by her side. Ignoring her pain, she pushed up and saw the glowing, healthy body of her Slayer.

Dani left her chair and came over to the bed, taking a seat next to her child. She brushed the loose strands from her child's face and smiled. "Welcome back."

Those words caused Willow to be flung back almost a year to when her Sire had given her a choice. "You…you turned her?"

Dani smiled sweetly. She was surprised by Willows displeasure. "How could you, Dani?"

"That she's a vampire. That she lost her soul to live. She's not the woman I love anymore."

Dani put her finger over Willow's mouth. "She didn't give up her soul and she's not a vampire. I wouldn't have taken her from you like that. She had just enough life left in her to bring her over, soul intact. She's not a vampire but she is immortal like us. A few drops of my blood were all it took. It was her decision."

Willow looked at her resting lover. The glow of eternal life and love highlighted her dark skin and Willow felt her heart battling between soaring with happiness and deep regret to the life her beloved was now sentenced. "She wanted this?"

"Right here." The smiling blond greeted and joined her vampire lover at her friend's bedside. "While you fought Kakistos, she asked Dani for this. She didn't want to live without you."

Willow reclined back in the bed and snuggled closer to her Slayer, soaking in her smell and essence. She stroked the woman's dark hair. "Has she woken yet?"

"Not yet." Dani shook her head. "Her wounds were bad. Another minute and I couldn't have brought her over. I wanted to see if you needed me here to explain when she did wake up."

"No." Willow smiled, looking at her lover. "I think I can remember 'the talk'." She glanced back at her Sire and the blond. "Thank you. Both of you."

Blushing, Dani stood up. "We'll check on you later." Leaning down, she brushed a kiss on Willow's head.

Watching both of them leave, she sighed deeply. The Master and Kakistos destroyed, the vampires culled back and her Slayer beside her. She should be happy but until Faith forgave her, she wouldn't be.

Rummaging through her memories, she tried to recall all that Dani had told her when she was first turned. It seemed like years ago but not even a year had passed. Lost in her thoughts, it took Faith's second groan to pull her to the present.

The Slayer started to stretch, but jerked back into a ball when her wounds screamed out in protest. "Damn." She mumbled and forced her eyelids open.

The last thing she had remembered was the encroaching darkness that came with her life ebbing from her. Dani and the blond had been there, holding and comforting her. From the corner of her eye she had seen Willow stalking Kakistos and then the cold had swept over her. Death was laying claim to her and she would never be able to tell her vampire that she did love her and was never that angry with her.

Dani had asked her a question. Then another and after she used the last of her strength to answer, next came the sensation of smooth bitterness coursing down her throat. The fiery cold raced over her and she felt the transformation beginning. Pain that made her wounds seem like scratches enveloped her and she had surrendered to the darkness.

Faith expected to never wake up or if there was an afterlife to wake up in a very warm climate. Instead she felt the cool soft sheets over her, caressing her skin and opening her eyes found a room not seen for too long but very welcoming. Her senses roared to life as smells, sounds and sights crashed around her.

"Shhh." A soft voice eased. "Take it in slowly. Breathe deeply and relax. Let your body get used to the new input."

Following the advice, Faith slowly turned her head and saw the slim angular face of the redheaded vampire reclining beside her. "Red?"

The pet name brought a smile to her lips. "Hi baby." She couldn't take her eyes away from the Slayer and unsure of the response cautiously stroked her dark tresses.

Running her tongue around her mouth, she felt no fangs and was confused. "What happened? Am I…"

"…A vampire? No. Dani saved you by giving you immortality. I'm not sure about the particulars but you are not a demon."

Willow shuddered at her bluntness but couldn't disagree. "It's a lot to take in I know, but if you want, I'll help you all I can."

Faith rolled over, grimacing as a fresh pain reminded her of her injury. "I came back for you. Unless you don't…"

Willow lay down beside the brunette and pulled her into her arms. "Don't even think that Faith. I meant it when I said YOU are the one I want. I love you and have never stopped."

The frown that passed on her face alerted Willow to the concern that was not voiced. "Yes." She admitted to her Slayer. "I was…I did…with Tara. I didn't love her and she knew that. We both…well there's no excuse for it and I'm sorry. I never meant to hurt you and had every intention of coming back to you if you'd have me."

"Because of the way I sent you away. Staging your death and having to lie to you. I thought you'd hate me."

Faith reached out her hand and cupped Willow's cheek. "I was angry and hurt but Ronnie helped me understand why you did it. I was furious that you'd gotten hurt trying to make it look real. I could never hate you, even after I saw you with…her."

"Tara." Willow supplied. "She's a witch and I couldn't have defeated the Master nor done any of this without her. We're friends, that's all. She's with Dani not me."

The redhead snickered. "Yeah, kinda caught me off guard too. Dani still has her soul Faith. Tara saw that and Dani cares about her."

They were silent for a moment, the quiet slightly tense but easing with every second. "I'm sorry Faith." Willow spoke up. "I love you and ask that you please try to forgive me. If you can't, I understand and will leave you alone."

Willow was pulled into a strong embrace, two bodies merging as one. "Don't let it happen again. You're my woman and don't you forget it."

She felt dampness against her shoulder and realized Willow was crying. They held one another tightly, taking comfort that they had found one another again.

After dinner, the group adjourned to the library where Joseph poured brandy and special wines for the two vampires. A fire crackled in the hearth and when everyone had a drink, he sat down to join them.

It had been two weeks since the Master and Kakistos had been defeated and there seemed to be a new atmosphere in the town. Life was returning to normal, at least by Sunnydale standards and the new peace treaties were so far successful.

Willow and Faith had been talking a lot, mending their relationship and reaching some decisions. Once they were ready they had called their 'family' together to apprise them of their choices. Joseph, Ronnie, Tara and Dani joined them in the library awaiting the news.

Snuggled together on the couch Willow and Faith took a deep breath. "We've made some very hard decisions." Willow began, "And I hope if you don't agree with them, you'll at least support us."

"This is not my world. I came here to help Dani and to try and understand what I was. I want to go home, back to my reality. I've talked with Anyanka and she's willing to take me back there."

They all expected this announcement but Dani was visibly distressed. Tara, who was sitting next to her, holding her hand, placed her other hand on the slender leather clad leg as a sign of more support.

"Now," Willow continued, "the thing that made me unsure of that decision was that I didn't want to leave without Faith and only if she wanted to come with me."

Seeing the couple touching one another and the looks they exchanged made it clear to all those in the room that she wouldn't leave without her Slayer and visa versa.

"Of course we also had to take into consideration that this world couldn't be without a Slayer. That problem has been solved." Willow stopped and motioned to Ronnie.

"From what I've been told, Faith died for just a minute or so during the fight with the Master." Ronnie stated. "Apparently that was long enough for a new Slayer to be activated. Giles is in the process of contacting her watcher and bringing her here for more training. He says that Kennedy and Faith have a lot in common and that she should be a very strong Slayer."

"Meaning," Willow stepped up again, "that Faith is free to come with me is she wants and to my great happiness she has agreed to do just that."

Willow slid off the couch and went to kneel in front of her Sire. Resting her hands over the Sire's, Willow smiled. "I love you Dani and I'll come back for a visit. I have to see my world again, to know that things are all right. And you won't be alone. You have Tara now and I know she loves you very much. You have each other and that lets me know it's okay to leave as well."

Tara smiled her thanks and kissed Dani's temple. "You'll come back?" Dani asked in her childlike voice.

Sounds of people, cars and other life filled the night air of Sunnydale as the newcomers walked through the center of town. It was a welcome sight for Willow and one Faith was un-accustomed too.

In all her years of slayer training and then captivity she had forgotten what a human filled town with no vampire masters was like. She maintained a tight hold on her lover's hand and drank in all the sights and sounds bombarding her.

Hearing the grumble of her girl's tummy caught Willow's attention. "Sorry baby. Let's get you something to eat." Her senses had also picked up the delicious smell and she was making a beeline for an old haunt. "Nothing like the smell of mochas"

The couple found a table in the Espresso Pump, ordered mochas and muffins and sat back to people watch.

Dressed in leather pants and an ocean blue button down, Faith was a vision and drew several stares from both male and female customers. The attention made her feel a bit self conscious and she kept her head down trying to avoid drawing any more looks her way.

"They think you're beautiful." Willow supplied as an explanation. "And I am in complete agreement."

Faith blushed. "You're the beautiful one. They probably wonder what you're doing with an old war horse like me."

"You are, not, a warhorse." The red head corrected. The waiter brought their order over, deposited it on the table and left them to their privacy.

Faith closed her eyes as the steam from the mochas and freshly baked muffins tickled her nose. "This smells wonderful."

"Wait till you taste it." Willow smiled and motioned for her to dig in. The muffin disappeared almost immediately and Willow pushed hers over to the brunette. Faith looked at her, crumbs clinging to her mouth, with hesitant guilt.

Needing no other encouragement, Faith took the offering and finished it a bit slower. Willow watched, nibbling on her muffin and taking slow, pleasurable sips of her drink. It was a treat she had missed in the last year and she was thrilled to be able to share it with her partner.

Knowing that there was a lot to take in in her world, she was concerned about Faith. "Are you handling okay? Not too much or overwhelming you?"

Washing down the last of the muffin with her _mocha, Faith cast a look around them. "Your world is so amazing and so different. Is this what my world will be like now that we defeated the vampires?"

The last word drew a few curious looks and Faith realized her error instantly. Willow smiled and patted her hand. "It depends on who is running things. You have to remember that what they know of normalcy is from a few years ago. But they will remember and I pray it's a better world. Are you homesick? Are you sorry you came?"

Faith's eyes widened. "No. Never. You are my home and it doesn't matter where we are. I guess I am a little nervous about meeting your friends here. Are you sure they'll be okay with me, with us? Being a vampire is one thing but bringing home your girlfriend…"

Emptying her cup, Faith wiped her mouth with a napkin and slipped off the seat, taking Willow's hand when she offered it.

So far so good, Willow thought. Buffy's mother had been thrilled to see her again and although a bit unsure around Faith, she had invited both women in and gave them a warm welcome. She informed Willow that Buffy had started college this year and was rooming with a very nice, shy girl on campus. After a nice all be it short visit, they got the housing information and headed out to the campus of Sunnydale University.

Bradley hall was more isolated and in a quieter part of the campus. Before meeting her Sire, Willow had considered attending UC Sunnydale and toured its grounds. Stevenson Hall was where most freshmen lived but Mrs. Summer's had explained that Buffy's roommate was a year ahead of her and had her own place.

Climbing the steps to the second floor, Faith became even more nervous, tightly clutching the red head's hand and holding back somewhat. Although not much had been said, the two newcomers had gathered from their time with Joyce that Faith's counterpart in this world had been a bad girl and switched sides for awhile. She was now trying to learn to mend her ways with Angel's help in L.A.

Reaching room 214, Willow took a deep breath and knocked on the door. She could hear movement inside and was picking up the smell of arousal. As she started to turn and leave, the door opened and she came face to face with a familiar blond face.

"I'm s…sorry, do I k…know you?" The woman asked. Except for the way they dressed, this was her Tara. This woman favored more flowing, baggy clothes to hide what Willow knew was a great figure underneath and seemed just as painfully shy.

"Uh…Well…Uh…" Realizing she was staring Willow felt Faith nudge her and she came back to her senses. "I'm sorry I was looking for…"

"Who is it Tara?" A very familiar voice asked from inside the room and then made an appearance behind her roommate.

Buffy stared in shock at the redhead before her. Willow was absolutely glowing and was so beautiful. Her red hair was cut short in a sporty style and she was dressed in leather pants and a red button down. Next to her stood a much older looking Faith, the slayer that was supposed to be on sabbatical with Angel.

Easing past the taller blond, Buffy stepped out into the hall and embraced Willow tightly. Willow wrapped her arms around her best friend and hugged back, conscious not to use her full vampire strength.

The two women remained connected for several minutes, silent and savoring the closeness. Faith and Tara weakly smiled at each other over the pair, and then began scanning the hallway and floor. Anything to divert their attention and allow the two friends some privacy.

They parted reluctantly but continued to hold hands. Buffy looked over the dark slayer accompanying Willow. "Faith?"

"Hi." She answered. She had heard stories about Buffy the Vampire Slayer but the woman had died last year. That this Buffy knew her name was exciting and worrisome.

"Buffy." Willow began, holding onto her Slayer's hand as well. "This is the Faith from my Sire's world. She's also…my girlfriend."

Dumbfounded, Buffy stared for a minute. She had always suspected Willow had a crush on their Faith but she'd thought it was more a hero worship kind of thing. Not only was her best friend a vampire now but also a lesbian vampire. The absurdity of it caused her to start giggling.

Hurt at first, Willow watched the blond, and then began to understand the reaction and she too began to laugh. The two friends collapsed against each other, laughing until tears rolled down their faces.

Tara was completely confused and could tell that the other woman was as well. "C…come in Faith, while these two get it out of their s…systems."

Smiling her thanks, Faith eased into the apartment, around the two jolly friends. She followed Tara to the couch and took a seat at the opposite end.

"No." She answered simply. Her social skills were still in the infant stage and she wasn't ready to try what little she had out yet.

Seeing that she was getting nothing more from the woman, Tara fell silent. After several minutes, the two women eased into the apartment from the hallway, arms around one another and still chuckling.

"I think I did too. I have missed you so much. I have so many things to tell you."

"Me first." Buffy interrupted. She walked over to Tara and kneeled beside her. "Wills, this is Tara, my roommate and…girlfriend."

"Your…You…?" Willow gasped. The shock over Buffy's admission wore off quickly because if this Tara was anything like her's it was understandable.

"After some of the things I've seen, very little surprises me anymore." Willow admitted.

"Can you stay for awhile? I'd really like to talk to you, catch up. I know Giles and Xander would love to see you."

Buffy nodded. "Yeah. Xander has been working construction the last few months and is really pretty good at it. He and Cordelia split but he's dating a nice normal girl named Fred now. Giles opened a majick store and is still doing his watcher thing. So can you stay?"

Willow looked at Faith and read her thoughts. "Yeah, for awhile. Think maybe you could use some vampire with a soul strength to help out the scobbies? I also have some latent majick skills too."

Remembering what she had sensed when they came knocking, Willow started to stand up. "I just wanted to check in. We didn't mean to interrupt anything…"

"Sit Willow, please." Tara said firmly. Buffy squeezed her hand in appreciation. "You're the stuff of legends around here and I'd like to hear about some of your adventures. Please stay."

Buffy nodded. "I'm thinking large Pizza's with lots of cheese and other gooey stuff, and beer."

Buffy went to make a phone call and joined them a few minutes later. "Okay, so spill. What was this other world like?"

"You remember the night you saved me from the Master's groupies?" Willow asked, Faith curling against her, "Well if you hadn't of been there the world would have been like this…"

Main What's New Fiction by Author Fiction by Pairing eBooks

Subject Index Submissions Gallery Forums Links Awards Contact Us

If you find problems on these pages please email your host.

Branches of the Willow

by April

Copyright © 2004

xenasis@yahoo.com