buffy: trick of the dark chapter 9

8/3/2019 Buffy: Trick of the Dark Chapter 9

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Chapter Nine

Still yet another someplace else south of Sunnydale

August 26, 2001

Buffy broke through the open doorway first, a stake in one hand; Angel loomed rightbehind her as she cleared the threshold, his hunting face revealed as he strode into the room.

Xander followed, moving to Angels left, ready to lend a hand wherever he might be needed.Giles? Buffy called.

Giles and Willow entered the small motel room.Were too late, Buffy groused. She gestured to the two slumbering Watchers on the

floor. Wesley found himself a pretty new friend, though.Goddammit, Giles hissed. First that he was stupid enough to try this on his own, and

secondly for involving the Council. Now it will be almost impossible to catch Ethan. Hell know

the whole damn world is looking for him.Nothings impossible, Angel muttered.I said almost, Giles snapped, and Angel turned away from him.

What are we gonna do with Wesley and... and... and whoever hes hanging with whodresses like Faith? Willow asked.

Kill em? Xander offered.Chinese water torture? Buffy seconded.

Giles frowned. Well take them back to my place, force them to talk, and send themhome.

Seems to me that little plan didnt exactly work last time, Xander reminded Giles.Giles answering smile was devoid of mirth. I assure you I will be much more

persuasive this go around.And Ill ride with Wesley to the airport and makes sure he gets on the plane this time,

Buffy promised icily.Guys, Willow spoke.

They turned to look at her.We better hurry if were going to find Ethan, she proposed.

How are we gonna do that? Xander queried.Follow the slime trail? Buffy snapped.

Angel said, I can detect the book. Its faint, and it wont be easy, but they just left. Andthey read aloud from the book a lot here. Its presence is very strong. We can use that to our

advantage if we move. Now.

Then we should get going, Buffy urged, turning to Giles.Giles glanced about the room. You, Xander, and Angel, go. Follow Ethan and Faith and

find them. Willow and I will take care of Wesley and... and whomever this young woman is.

You sure? Buffy queried. We might need magical backup. This is Ethan, devious guywith big nasty spellbook.

Angel can protect you better than I can, Giles admitted. He knows more aboutAgrimatto and vampiric spells than I do. I wouldnt be that much use to you. He frowned.

his entire document copyright [email protected]


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Besides, someone has to take care of these two. I cant simply let them wake up and walkaway.

Buffy nodded. Good luck.I know I dont have to tell you to be careful, Giles spoke softly. Ethans likely to feel

desperate and hunted, and he might to be up to great mischief with that spell book.

Well get him, Buffy promised. She turned and led Xander and Angel out of the room.Willow waited a moment and then asked, How are we going to get these two back toyour place? Xanders taking his car.

Giles looked around the room, noticing the ash on the chair and the stake embedded inthe wall. Taxi, I suppose, he muttered. Why dont you look up a cab company in the phone

book and call them? Tell them well need room for four.Willow slipped her hair behind one ear. How are we going to explain them? she

wondered, gesturing at Wesley and Jill.Well say theyre drunk, Giles told her. Im sure theyll feel like they have hangovers

when they wake up. He moved over to the chair to investigate the ashes as Willow picked upthe phone.

Sunnydale Cab? she inquired. I need a cab for four at the Sundown Motel. Willowwaited for a response. Thats right, she answered. Thats the one, on Druhan street. She

nodded. Thanks.She hung up the phone and turned to Giles. Twenty minutes. Must be a slow night.

Giles nodded in reply. Excellent, he told her, handing her a length of rope that hadpreviously held the vampire Logan in his seat. Tie her feet, would you?

Wont that look a little suspicious? Willow wondered.Tying their hands will attract attention. In the dark, the driver may not notice their feet

tied. Well be more or less dragging them anyway.Willow moved about, tying Jills feet. Did Ethan leave anything useful? she asked.

Just some vampire ash, Giles grumbled. Not in a big enough hurry to forget thejournal or the laptop.

Theres only so lucky we can be, Giles, Willow clucked at him.Yes, well, as someone said to me recently, were about due for a break, dont you

think?Willow gave him a sheepish look.

*Heading North on State Highway 5

A Chevy Cavalier? Faith asked. We aint outrunnin nobody in this thing, E. Yashoulda taken the Vette.This car had a distinct advantage, Faith. I took the keys from Wesleys friend. No

breaking in and no hot-wiring, Ethan responded, pushing the cavalier to sixty-five. Besides, aCorvette is a flashy sports car. Policemen like to stop flashy cars and find out why pretty young

women and middle-aged men are driving them. And then give them a hard time.You live for people not noticin you, dontcha?



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Ethan nodded, glancing at her. It greatly increases my chances for longevity. He staredback at the road. I would really like to know how that idiot Wyndham-Pryce found me where

Giles could not.Dumb luck? Faith wondered.

Wesley would have no other kind, Ethan confirmed. But I dont believe in luck. We

slipped somewhere, with something, and they found us. Well have to be a lot more careful.Can I ask you a question? Faith queried.You can ask, Ethan replied.

Faith leaned toward the window, letting the cool night air blow through her dark mane.Just what in the hell are we doin, anyway? I mean, I know it has somethin to do with that

book, and I know youre lookin to fuck with Buffy, but... She shrugged. Why do we needanother vampire? I thought you said that guy I dusted had just about finished the translatin.

He did, Ethan agreed. But now we need another one to perform the spell. Cant do itwithout a vampire.

Cant do what? Faith asked him.As far as I can tell, we need to find a host for a demon, Ethan told her. The only way

we can stop Buffy -- and all the Slayers except for you -- is to find a host for this Agrimatto, andbring him back to Earth. He glanced over at Faith. Once he gets here, hell take care of the

rest.Faith frowned. You wanna bring a demon into this dimension? A real live sproutin

horns, teeth drippin blood demon?Not in his real form, if I can help it, Ethan corrected her. If I summon a demon of his

power, I probably wont be able to control him. If I force him into someone elses body -- likenormal vampiric possession-- then we can have all his knowledge and skill and an easy way to

keep him in line.Uh huh, Faith spoke. And this Aggie guy, he gets his jollies by killing Slayers?

Thats his basic goal, yes, Ethan concurred.Faith blinked. So I should be hundreds of miles away when you bring this guy into our

little corner of the universe, right? Like, I shouldnt be right there. Hello, bitchin demon, meetFaith, your new snack.

Ethan looked over at her. I would never allow that to happen.And trust is the first word that pops into my head when I think of you, she shot back.

Faith, he asked, have I done a single thing to harm you since I let you out of thehandcuffs?

No, she admitted. But that doesnt mean--Sooner or later, Faith, youre going to have to trust somebody. You cannot live your

entire life alone. Youre going to have to accept that there are people who care about you. Rarethough they might be.

Bullshit, Faith responded. You live your life all alone.I did, Ethan assented. Until now.

Faith laughed. What are you tellin me, E? That of all the people in the whole world youcould develop a soft spot for... what, you just picked me?

I didnt pick you, he admitted. I didnt even know I had a soft spot for you at all untilWesley and Jill broke in. Of course I saw potential in you from the start -- but that isnt the same

thing.Faith looked at him as he drove. Keep goin, she urged him.



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When I was in the bathroom, thinking of how to handle the situation, I realized that mytypical reaction would be to make sure my survival was assured, and to hell with anyone else

who might be there. But this time, Faith, this one time, I couldnt do that. I was worried. Aboutyou. About what they would do to you if they took you back. And years and years of self-

sufficiency and self-survival... He trailed off, looking over at her, watching her hair flutter in the

wind. All gone. All traded in, in that instant, because I was more concerned about you.Faith turned away from him, digesting his words, as the car sped on.So let me get this straight, she murmured after a long pause. You care about me?

Quite a bit, actually, Ethan told her softly.And youre not kiddin?

No, he assured her. I am not.Faith ran a hand through her hair. Huh. I gotta think about this one, she spoke.

Take all the time you like, Ethan suggested. After this spell is completed, our littlefriend Buffy will be far too busy to chase after us. Ever again.

Faith regarded him skeptically. You really think you can kill Buffy?Ethan nodded. Someone has to, eventually. Might as well be me.

*

Cant this tub go any faster? Buffy asked Xander from the back seat.Hey, it usually doesnt go this fast, Xander replied, trying to coax a little more speed

out of the already objecting engine.Theres not much out here for him, Angel offered. The further north we go from

Sunnydale, the fewer vampires there are.Assuming he still needs one, Buffy offered.

Were coming up on Pendleton, Xander announced.You remember that from your soldier thingie that Halloween? Buffys eyes glinted.

Wouldnt thatbe ironic, that something Ethan did--Xander cut her off. Nope. Read the sign.

Oh, Buffy frowned. Well, still. Irony and all.I wish I could use it. I wish I could think of a way to call in the troops. He looked at

Buffy in the rearview mirror. Just this once, you wouldnt mind a little help, right?Buffy nodded. Id be upset, but Id get over it.

Is there anywhere to turn off in here? Angel asked as they passed the border of themilitary compound.

Xander closed one eye in thought. Theres a bunch of roads that lead into the base, butEthan wouldnt take them, I bet. All of them have posted sentries that change in about three

hours. Theyd ask the kinds of questions a sneaky guy like Ethan wouldnt want to answer.What about beaches? Buffy asked. Were pretty near the water.

Theres one, maybe two, Xander informed her. Theres a lot more on the other side ofPendleton, about eighteen miles away.

We should try to catch him before then, Angel muttered.Im tryin, Xander assured him. Cant speed too much. Its not like I could talk my

way outta that ticket. Yes, officer, me, this vampire, and the chosen girl of her generation are



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chasing down a mad magician and his evil superhuman henchwoman. And thats why I wasspeeding.

Buffy ignored him. Can you tell if hes far ahead of us? she asked Angel.He closed his eyes and seemed to concentrate for a moment. The further away we get

from where he read the book, the harder it is to track it. I cant be sure if hes over the next hill,

or five miles ahead of us.Youre sure were on the right road? Buffy wondered.Angel nodded. Yes.

Xander offered, Too bad they ditched their vampire. Then Buffy could help find them.You know, Slaydar and all.

Angel swore softly. I didnt think of that. I should have stayed with Giles and Willow.Why? Buffy queried.

Because Faith can pick up on me. Theyll have an edge. The further we go, the fainterthe books trail is, but Faith will always be able to pick up on me no matter where we are.

But we need you here, Buffy told him. Xander and I might not be able to stop Ethanby ourselves.

And we can use Faiths slaydar to our advantage, Xander piped up.You like that word, dont you? Buffy inquired.

Xander shrugged. Willow usually gets to make up all the cool words. So, yeah, its nicethat I came up with a term that--

How can we use Faiths ability to sense me as an asset? Angel interrupted.Can you say, vampire as the decoy? Send you in one direction, me and Buffy take the

other direction, boom, bam, classic pincer movement.Pincer movement? Angel echoed.

Buffy smiled. Xander gets all technical when his soldier programming takes over.Just tryin to do my job, maam. He mock saluted her in the rearview mirror.

Angel peered intently out the window as they passed a road that branched off from thehighway.

Anything? Buffy prompted.Angel shook his head. No. Still on the highway. He tapped his fingers on the rubber lip

of weather-stripping that bordered the open window. Xanders right. Ethan wouldnt try to hideon a military base. Hell terrorize some civilian community up ahead.

Not if we catch him first, Buffy stated.Im tryin, Xander assured her. You can only push the jalopy so fast, and then shell

die on ya. He patted the dashboard. Found that out the hard way.Drag racing? Angel wondered.

Moving day, Buffy supplied. Xander tried to take his whole life to the apartment inone trip.

Ah, Angel nodded, his dark eyes resuming their intent searching of the highway.Angel? Xander queried.

Hmm?What does the book... I mean, do you feel... what does it... Xander exhaled. How do

you feel a book? I mean, what does it feel like?Angel furrowed his brow in thought. Have you ever smelled something and you knew

what it was, but you couldnt place it? So you walked around the house trying to figure out whatit was until you found it?



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He does that every laundry day, Buffy deadpanned.Xander shot her a quick look. Im with you, he replied to Angel.

Its like that, Angel told him. Except just imagine the scent has tiny little sharp fingersthat poke you in the stomach.

Ech, Xander blurted. You guys really do go for doing everything the gross way, dont

you? Its not a whole lot of fun for me, either, Angel admitted. But its not like I have anychoice.

Buffy reached up and squeezed his shoulder. Angel turned his head toward the windowand allowed himself a small smile. Id go through a lot worse than this for Buffy, kid. And so

would you.

*Sunnydale

You think we should wake them up? Willow asked, gesturing to the prone forms ofWesley and Jill, who sat tied to matching kitchen chairs in the living room of Giles apartment.

I think they could stand to rest a little while longer, Giles replied, moving into the

kitchen. Tea?Coke, Willow responded. I bet Wesleys getting tired of being tied to a chair at your

place.Giles emerged from the kitchen, an Amber in one hand and a Diet Coke in the other.

Yes, well, then he should learn to act more trustworthy, shouldnt he?Willow took the offered soda. I guess. But he was trying to help.

Giles popped open the beer. Trying to help would have involved calling us first, so wecould coordinate with him. He took a sip of beer. Id love to know how he found Ethan and

Faith. He shook his head. He was trying to circumvent us and return Faith to the Council -- orworse. Who knows what he and this, this... He gestured toward Jill with his beer hand. This

woman were planning.Do you know who she is? Willow wondered.

Not by sight, answered Giles, and she isnt carrying any identification. He frowned.All she had on her was a comb, a few bullets, a stake, and a vial of holy water.

Ooh, Willow spoke, maybe shes a Watcher?Giles looked skeptical. Its possible, but she looks more like a Slayer than a Watcher.

Shes quite young, and, well... He pointed at her.

Watcher in a tank top, Willow smiled. Must totally offend your sense of decorum.She winked at him.

Yes, well, enough of that, Giles stated. Wake them up.Willow glanced at him. Me?

Giles returned her gaze. You said you wouldnt mind studying tonight. I know youmeant magic, but heres your chance to observe a Watcher at work.

Three Watchers, really, Willow pointed out.Quite so, Giles agreed. Two at least. He folded his arms. Wake them.

Willow shook Wesley first. Wake up, she told him.Wesley frowned, eyes still closed.



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Now! Willow raised her voice.Wesley and Jill both shook awake.

Where are we? she wondered.Not again, Wesley remarked. Really, Mr. Giles, I hardly think this is appropriate. I--

Shut up, Wesley, Giles spoke.

Youre Rupert Giles? his partner spoke.Giles nodded.She frowned. Im Jill Kinkaid. I have an appointment with you tomorrow morning. She

shrugged. Though I suppose its canceled now.That would be a good supposition, Giles agreed. I take it you work for the Watchers

Council?How did you know? Jill wondered.

Giles explained, Wesley would never work with a freelancer like I would. Hes toosuspicious.

Now see here, I am not, Wesley objected.Giles shot him a look.

Well, not overly, anyway. Properly suspicious, I should say.Giles ignored him. Between that and your mention of the Council in your resum, it was

a fairly simple deduction. Giles regarded her. Not too many people know about the Council,theyre very careful. But that fact that youre an American lent your story some credence. They

dont much care for Americans.They do now, Jill corrected him. Its not like it used to be, Mr. Giles. The British still

run things, but more and more Americans are being recruited by the Council.Shhh, Wesley told her.

What do you mean, shhh? Jill snapped. Im the one in charge here, not you.Actually, Willow pointed out, Giles is the one in charge.

He nodded. Thank you, Willow. He turned to Jill. How did you find Ethan andFaith?

Dumb luck, she shrugged. I saw Faith walk into the place where we were havingbreakfast.

Wesleys jaw dropped. You told me the Council told you! Youve known sincebreakfast? Why did we wait so long?

Jill sneered at him, Because I knew youd call Giles for assistance, you little twerp. Iwanted to take this on my own. She eyed Giles. They may let Americans in, but they dont

promote us all that much. Bagging a Slayer would have forced them to take me out of the fieldand let me work at the home office.

Giles removed his glasses. So let me get this straight. You happen upon Faith -- purelyby chance -- and then you dont call us because it doesnt fit in with your ambitions? Despite the

fact that these people constitute a very real danger to the real Slayer? Giles hands shook withanger. I should leave the both of you tied up here until this whole affair is over, and then send

you back to England in a packing crate.He loomed over Jill. Your pride doesnt interest me one damn bit. You could have

stopped this, all of it, and you didnt. If anything happens to Buffy now, Im going to hold theCouncil -- and you -- personally responsible for it.

What are you gonna do? Jill replied.



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Giles moved to a drawer on his hutch and opened it, removing two bandannas. Willow,he spoke, would you be so good as to gag these two?

Willow nodded, coming over to him. What are you going to do, Giles? she murmuredsoftly.

Im going to send them home. And Im going to make sure that this time, they go.

He picked up the phone even as Willow moved over to the two bound Watchers. Imsorry about this, she said as she gagged Wesley, but you guys might have done something thatmight lead to Buffy getting hurt. And while Im not gonna get all shaky mad like Giles, I am

pretty pissed off at the both of you. She tied the other bandanna in Jills mouth and stood back,folding her arms.

That oughtta do it, Willow muttered.

*Heading North on State Highway 5

We just gonna keep drivin all night? Faith queried.Were in the middle of a military base, Ethan answered. I suspect they will be less

than sympathetic to our cause. He glanced over at her. Theres a small town on the other side -

- the name escapes me -- but there will be opportunities to lose any pursuit there.Faith nodded. Okay. Im five by five with that. Then what?

Then we go right back to Sunnydale.Faith looked over at him. Are you whacked? Goin right back to their little clubhouse?

Ethan raised an eyebrow. Where else do you suggest we find a vampire on short notice?If there are any in this area, they will be in Sunnydale. We trap another one, find another place to

hole up, and start all over again. Only this time--Wait a minute, Faith interrupted him. Maybe thats it.

What? Ethan frowned, glancing at her briefly.The vampire, she suggested. Maybe thats how they found us, tracking the vamp we

captured. She snapped her fingers. B can pick up on vamps.But Buffy wasnt with them, Ethan pointed out. Because if she were, she hardly

would have let the weakest members of her little posse bust in first.I wish she had been there, Faith growled.

Not yet, Faith, not yet. Youre not strong enough. And our friend Agrimatto has a scoreto settle with the Slayer at any rate. You might have to forego your revenge just this once.

You sure you can bring him back? Faith asked, reading a sign informing them that San

Clemente lay only a few miles up the road.Thats our exit, Ethan confirmed.

Cmon, E. Dont play me. This Aggie guy. You got the goods to do this?Ethan nodded. I believe so, yes. Our former captive and I very nearly finished the

translation. I can do the rest briefly, and--Can I make a little suggestion? Faith interrupted.

By all means, Ethan encouraged.We dont have a lot of time here. Holing up again is a bad idea. They found us once,

they can find us again. I say, you got what it takes, you do the spell tonight, before they can get



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their hands on us. Faith looked over at him. They got lucky once. And its their town -- theyllget lucky again.

Id rather not perform the spell tonight, Ethan ventured.You wanna explain that? Faith challenged.

He took a deep breath. Agrimatto spent all of his time on this Earth researching how to

kill Slayers. Thats his singular aim, his goal. I doubt even my verbal skills can convince himthat youre on his side, and you are a Slayer, Faith. If he sets eyes on you, youre dead.Especially in your weakened state. He looked at her. Its too risky.

Its too risky not to, Faith said. We hide out again and the next time somebody bustsdown our door. It might be B and her brownie squad. Faith nodded. Do it tonight.

Faith, I--Do it tonight, she pressed him.

Ethan moved into the right lane as the exit came up on them. Faith, you said it yourself,something went wrong with Agrimattos spell. Something caused him to fail the first time. Until

I know what that is, and how to control it, and him, I dont want you around.Faith held her thumb and forefinger together in front of him. E, we got about this much

room to play around until the white hats catch us. I say fuck it, take our chances, roll the dice.Dyin would be better than going to jail. Or wherever the Watchers would send me.

One can always come back if one goes to jail, Ethan advised her. Death is sopermanent.

Yeah, but... Faith trailed off as Ethan exited the highway and rolled to an intersectionrelatively free of traffic. He shifted the car into park and opened the door.

Where you goin? Faith asked him.To buy us some time. Ill be right back.

Faith leaned over the seat and watched as Ethan walked about twenty five feet behind thecar. She could hear him start to chant, but the words remained indistinct. He gestured once with

an open hand, reaching upward; then he seemed to pull something downward, like a screen or ashade. He gestured all the way to the ground, and then Faith raised an eyebrow as she watched

him wave the open hand over the ground in a weaving, criss-crossing pattern. He had ceasedchanting, and merely moved his hand in an intricate pattern for a minute or so. Then he stood up,

slowly and carefully backing away from the area where he had performed the magic, and steppedbeck into the car, shutting his door. He shifted out of park and turned the car onto a wide avenue,

driving slowly.So what was that? Faith quizzed him.

That little ditty is called a trailtwister. I learned it from a Hopi Indian when I was amuch younger man.

Faith nodded. Whats it do? Get somebody lost?Ethan exhaled. Essentially, yes. No matter what means they are using to trail us, this

will confuse them. Unless they actually make visual contact with us. Ethan accelerated slightly,heading toward the nearby beach.

And they wont be able to find us once they drive into that thing? Faith asked him.It will wear off eventually, Ethan admitted. But it will confuse them long enough so

that we can lose them and head back toward Sunnydale. He looked over at her. All we have todo is get them away from the highway, and then we can head back south and continue our

plans.Tonight, Faith stressed. This Aggie guy comes back tonight, E.



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Ethan nodded. Well see.

*Somewhere near the southern outskirts of San Clemente

Slow down, Angel warned Xander as the exit for San Clemente approached.

You pickin up something, Angel? Buffy asked him.He nodded. They changed course around here. Angel pointed. They took that exit.

You sure? Xander queried. Be positive about this.I am, Angel snapped at him. Just take this exit. He turned back to Buffy. Were

close. I can--Xander aimed the car up the exit ramp, taking his foot off the ramp to let the car glide to

the red light at the end of the exit, where a wide side street intersected.You can what? Buffy wondered. Angel?

Angel slid his leg over the hump of the drive shaft and slammed his foot on the brake.

Xander, unprepared, was thrown forward into the steering wheel. Only Buffys superhumanreflexes saved her from being thrown over the back seat and through the window.

Xander swore colorfully under his breath and turned on Angel. Are you just totally

freakin nuts?? he yelled.Sorry, Angel muttered. You guys okay?

For somebody with two dislocated shoulders, sure, Buffy groused, throwing him a darklook. What was that all about?

Xander smoldered, refraining from answering but staring daggers at Angel.Theres a spell up ahead. A ward of some sort. Its pretty potent, but it was thrown in a

hurry. Ethan had no time to disguise it. Angel turned to them. If I wasnt here, you would havedriven right through it.

And? Xander prompted. That would have been so much worse than fractured ribs.Sorry, Angel apologized. But who knows what kind of ward Ethan is capable of

throwing? If its anti-demonic, I couldnt pass it.Buffy gave him a long look. Which would not be pretty at fifty miles an hour.

Angel nodded. Exactly.Xander slowly nudged the car over to the side of the road. So, now what? We just sit

here and hope Ethan passes us by?We have to know what that ward is, Angel announced. You two stay here. Ill go--Not with Faith up and mobile again you wont, Buffy told him firmly. We go as a

team, all three of us. Nobody goes anywhere alone right now. Ethan and Faith are on the run, andthey are desperate. Nobody plays hero.

Right, Angel nodded.Youre the boss, boss, Xander confirmed.

Good, Buffy nodded. Lets take a closer look at this. Angel, do you think you canidentify it?

He shrugged as he stepped out of Xanders huge car. Maybe. It was thrown in haste,and... He trailed off, staring at the roadway ahead of them.

Earth to guy who doesnt breathe, Xander jibed. Wanna fill us in on whats givin youthe goosebumps there?



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Angel glanced distractedly at Xander. Huh?You went all quiet all of the sudden, Buffy agreed. Whats the deal, Angel? What is

it?Angel frowned. Its a type of confusion spell thrown to make it hard for your enemies to

track you, he told them. Ive used it once or twice when I was in a pinch. Its a hard spell to

memorize. Takes a lot of time. Angel rubbed his chin. If Ethan can throw this kind of magicaround that fast, Id bet he could... He glanced at Buffy. Nevermind.Nevermind what? she asked.

How do we get around this thing? Xander asked Angel.Theres basically three options, the vampire answered. We can wait for it to dispel

itself. Which would be ideal for Ethan, so we can forget that. We can dispel it ourselves, whichtakes time, and I dont know how to do it off the top of my head. Or we can find a way around

it.Or, Xander spoke, reaching inside the car and withdrawing a cell phone from the glove

compartment, We can call Willow and Giles and ask them how to do it. He tossed the phone toAngel. Go ahead.

I didnt know you had a cell phone, Buffy told him, surprised.My Uncle Rory got it for me when I finished paying off the car, Xander informed her.

He told me hed pay the bill so long as I only used it in emergencies, but hed take it away if Igot too casual with it. Xander shrugged. I call this an emergency.

You with a cell phone, Buffy remarked. Will wonders never cease?Witness the reason I didnt tell you about it, Xander teased her. You could so get

casual with a cell phone.Moi? Buffy asked.

You, Xander agreed. Remember what happened to the one your mom got you whenyou turned nineteen?

Lets not go there, Buffy spoke.Giles, its Angel. Were all fine, we just need a little help.

Willow is so gonna love this, Buffy told Xander.Shell be glowing about it for weeks, rubbing our noses in it.

Buffy smiled. Good ol Willow. Good ol head will be bigger than a water-towerWillow.

No, Angel spoke into the phone. Seems to be a pretty standard confusion spell. I dontthink wed be harmed, but it would mask the trail of the book.

Unless Giles comes up with the answer, Buffy pointed out. Then Will will have amajor case of pouties that shes useless.

I know that feeling, Xander said.You havent been useless in a long time, Buffy assured him.

Which is admitting that I once was, he retorted.No, I doubt he had any physical materials to work with, Angel told Willow. He would

have had to throw this really fast. Its more of a glamor than a real spell.I am not admitting that! Buffy replied. I think youre confusing me with broom-closet-

smoochies-woman.Xander frowned. Not in a million years could I confuse the two of you, Buff.

Buffy cracked a grin. I bet you say that to all the Slayers, she teased him.



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Okay, Ill try that, Angel spoke into the phone. Thanks, Willow. He clicked thephone shut and handed it back to Xander.

It was Willow! Xander smiled. Hooray for the home team.Whos the away team? Buffy queried.

Giles. Because hes from England. Over the ocean and far away and...

Buffy shook her head no.Xander shrugged. Whatever.Angel glanced from one to the other. You two done? he wondered.

Sure thing, Buffy told him. What do we do?Angel made eye contact. Someone has to walk through the spell. Its harmless, but it

will mess up their sense of direction pretty badly. Angel set his hands on his hips. Ethanprobably thought that wed drive through it and all be confused.

Couldnt we just wait here for someone else to drive through it and let them gethopelessly lost? Xander inquired. Wouldnt that be just a wee bit better than sacrificing one of

our own? Especially since Im the sacrificee.No youre not, Angel told him. We need you to drive, and me to keep track of the

book. Besides, it wouldnt work with anyone else. Ethan more than likely aimed the spell at us.Well, if Im not the third wheel here, who...? Xander wondered.

Angel turned to Buffy. Im sorry, Buffy.Buffy frowned. I dont mind. At least I dont think I mind. She looked up at Angel.

Do I mind?He shook his head. It wont hurt, and itll wear off in about a day or so. Maybe faster

since Ethan was in such a hurry. Youll probably have a little disorientation in the morning, butthats about it.

Buffy nodded. Okay. Just dont let me wander too far after I get all ditsy.Gotcha covered, Xander assured her. Buffy nodded, took a long look at Angel, and the

three of them walked off up the exit ramp.Xander never took his eyes off her as he asked, How will we know when shes...

Well know, Angel muttered.Buffy continued walking in a straight line, about five feet ahead of them; suddenly she

stopped and started looking around.Told you, Angel said. Now we can pass.

Are you sure that worked? Xander questioned him. Maybe its a little morecomplicated than you guys are guessing.

Good point, Angel admitted. Okay, you go ahead and check.Why me? Xander asked him.

I can detect the book, remember? Push comes to shove, I can drive, too.Xander gave him a sour look. I hate it when youre right, he mumbled, walking off

toward Buffy.

*Sunnydale

Are you sure thats absolutely necessary? Sam asked, stopping at the traffic light theblock before Giles apartment.



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Shelley looked over at him. What?Sam gestured to his own chin. The mask?

Shelley glanced at herself in the passengers side mirror; shed pulled her hair back in aponytail and tied a thin black scarf around the bottom half of her face. Her brown eyes gazed

back at her in the mirror. Corny, maybe. But it gets the job done.

Both you and Giles said it was important that they not recognize any of us. You bothwant Pike kept a secret from the Council, and that secret includes Rachel and I. She flipped herponytail over her shoulder. I admit its a little theatrical, but theyll never recognize me.

Sam rolled his eyes. If you say so. Personally Id rather just knock the both of them onthe head and have done with it, but Giles wants us to ferry them back to L.A. in a conscious

state, in case they slip and reveal anything.You think they will? Shelley queried.

They were willing to work with a vampire, Sam admitted. I suppose I shouldnt putanything past them, or think them too bright.

Hey, Shelley argued as Sam pulled into the Capesides lot and found a spot, Buffy andher group work with a vampire. And theyre pretty bright.

Angels not a vampire in any real sense of the word, Sam told her, shutting off thelights. His having a soul makes him different, and you know it. Sam shook his head. Damn

fascinating case. Id love to spend some time talking to him one of these days.Shelley winked as she opened the door. Maybe if you ask nice.

Sam sighed as he stepped out of the car. Youre enjoying this way too much.Shelley smiled beneath the scarf. How often do I get to play the bad guy? Its fun.

Lets hope it doesnt have to be anything more than an act, Sam stated.I dunno, Shelley spoke as she moved next to him. I could maybe stand roughing them

up a bit. They didlet Ethan slip through their fingers.Im sure the guilt is punishment enough, Sam ventured.

Im not, she countered.Sam gestured toward Giles door. Lets go. He rapped on the door lightly.

Giles opened the door when he heard the knock. Sam, he greeted the shorter man,holding out his hand. Giles raised an eyebrow as he took in Sams companion. Shelley, isnt it?

Shes the blond one, right? The girl wore a loose black vest, a black t-shirt, a pair of blackleather jeans, and black workboots. Dressing every inch the villain, Giles thought as he noticed

the scarf tied around her face.A bit dramatic, no?Rupert, Sam replied. I came as quickly as I could.

Whos your friend? Giles queried.Protection, Sam spoke loudly, putting on a show for the two bound Watchers. In case

these two get any ideas.Giles ushered them inside. Willows eyes widened slightly at the sight of Shelley, and she

raised an eyebrow at seeing Sam Zabuto.Sam, this is Willow Rosenberg. An invaluable aid in my research. Shes truly gifted, and

a good friend.Hi, Willow greeted him softly, blushing slightly at Giles praise. Its a pleasure to

meet you, Mr. Zabuto.Likewise, Sam told her, shaking her hand. Giles has told me about you before. Those

of us on the Watchers Council who are still honest appreciate your help.



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Willow grinned. Thank you. Ive been happy to lend a hand. She turned to Shelley, butthe blonde nodded her head no.

Some other time, maybe, Willow murmured, taking a step back away from Shelley.Please do take them off my hands, Giles said, gesturing to Wesley and Jill. Make sure

they get on their plane this time, wont you, Sam?

Sam nodded. You can count on me, Rupert, he assured the former Watcher. Shell seeto that, he spoke, gesturing to Shelley.She drew a knife from an inside pocket in her vest and sliced the ropes that held Jills

arms to the chair. The Watcher began to rub her wrists; Shelley replaced the knife and grabbedsome of the cut rope, tying Jills hands quickly and efficiently. On your feet, she hissed. Jill,

still gagged, seethed, but could not reply.Sam repeated the process with Wesley, untying and retying his hands, and he and Shelley

led the two captives out to the car. Once they had safely tucked their charges inside, the tworeturned to Giles apartment.

I cant thank you enough, Sam, Giles told him. It will be a relief to be rid of him.Not at all, Rupert. Though Ill likely be blackballed for this, Sam shrugged.

You will? Willow asked. They would punish you for doing the right thing?Much of what we view as right and wrong depends upon our point of view, Sam told

Willow, and I can assure you that the Council and I dont always see eye to eye. He winked ather. Im like Rupert in that respect. He paused a moment. But depending upon what Wesley

and Jill tell the Council, I could get into some hot water over this. He shrugged. Like I care.Youre a good friend, Sam, Giles said, shaking his hand.

Willow, Shelley said, Buffys told me a lot about you. I wish I could spend somemore time with you.

Who are you? Willow queried.Im Shelley, Pikes girlfriend, she answered. Sorry I had to come down here dressed

like ninja lady, but we dont want the Council knowing about us. So I have to kinda screw withtheir heads, she explained, gesturing to the car.

Willow nodded. Ah, okay. Well, I hope you can visit sometime without the disguise.Shelley smiled beneath the mask. Id like that.

Nice meeting you, Willow told her, even if you are putting off the creepy vibe.Nice meeting you too, Shelley agreed. Tell Buffy I said hi.

Sure thing, Willow assured her.The two girls turned to see Giles and Sam watching them.

You mind? Shelley asked. Willow and I are bonding here.Bonding? Giles echoed.

Its a chick thing, Willow quipped. You wouldnt understand.

*Ethan frowned as he watched Buffy, Xander, and Angel step back into the oversized car

they had been driving. That didnt work, he muttered, lowering the binoculars.Hey, that chick really believes in bein prepared, Faith told him, rummaging through a

cardboard box in the back seat. She held up a flare. Flares, bullets, rope, holy water, stakes...She chuckled at a new discovery. She even has emergency munchies.



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Lets be glad she had binoculars, Ethan replied, slowly moving out of the line of sightfrom the highway exit.

Now what? Faith asked, looking up at the movement of the car.We could try to lead them into a trap, Ethan suggested. But they outnumber us, they

have more power than we do, and no doubt they are very angry.

So? Faith asked. Cant just sit here. Theyll find the book.Ethan stared at her.Thats gotta be how they can follow us. Some vamps can sense a Slayer, but they gotta

be real close, and Angel aint been that close to us yet. Gotta be the book.Ethan swore. Youre probably right.

Well? Faith pressed.Im thinking, Ethan assured her.

Better do it faster, Faith told him. You movin the car means they got past your littletrap, didnt they?

Yes, Ethan admitted. They sent Buffy ahead, and she absorbed the whole spell. Shellbe dazed for a while.

Lets take em on, Faith hissed. Ill take Angel, you take Xander. Fuck some stupiddemon. Lets just kill em now.

A good general never enters a battle when hes unsure of the outcome, Ethanresponded, turning a corner.

You chicken shit! Lets fight em! Faith hopped over the back of the seat and ploppedherself next to Ethan in the passengers seat. We can take em! She held up Jills revolver.

We got this, too. They wont be expecting that.Ethan frowned, clearly indecisive. Its still too risky.

Oh, and bringin some kind of Slayer-eatin demon into the world is a hundred per-centrisk free? Faith argued. Bullshit, she spat. This is a lot safer than your way.

Faith, Ethan began, but she cut him off, pointing the pistol at him. Do it.Its not me Im worried about, Ethan told her. I havent actually done anything illegal

yet, that they can prove. Ill be fine, even if they did catch me. But you would be locked away,likely sent back to England, and I-- He stopped, trailing off.

And you what? Faith growled.And Id never see you again, he finished quietly.

Faith stared at him a long moment. You really do like me, dont you?Ethan returned her gaze, nodding almost imperceptibly.

Faith shook her head. That must have been some kiss I laid on you.I rather liked you before the kiss, he murmured.

Faith closed her eyes, thinking hard. Okay, okay, how about this? We take one pass atthem -- in the car -- and I empty the gun in their direction. Hopefully I do some damage, maybe

even kill somebody. Then we head to Sunnydale and you get your big old demon out and havehim finish what we started.

Ethan nodded. Agreed. Fair enough.Id rather take to do the time to do this correctly,but she may have a point...

Faith shook her head. I must be crazy lettin you talk me into this, Faith mumbled.Now all we gotta do is find them.

That shouldnt be a problem, Ethan spoke. Theyre following us.No shit? Faith asked, twisting around to look behind them.



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None, Ethan replied dryly. Those headlights are theirs.Turn around, E, Faith ordered him. Turn around!

Ethan stared at her a moment. This goes against every better instinct I have, and a lot ofthe worse ones, too.

Itll work, Faith grinned at him. Trust me, E, thisll work.

Ethan spun the car around, facing toward Xanders huge automobile as it barreled towardthem. I do hope youre right, he whispered as he stepped on the gas.

*You sure thats them? Xander asked.Thats them, Angel confirmed. Step on it.

Okay, dead guy. You just keep your feet on your side of the car.Angel frowned. Would you not call me that?

Where are we? Buffy piped up from the back seat.Theyre turning around, Xander noted. He looked at Angel. Are they crazy?

Angel blinked. They arent stupid. This must be a trick.Xander kept his foot on the accelerator. Theyre not moving out of the way, he spoke.

They will, Angel assured Xander, fastening his seat belt.Xander noticed Angel buckling up. Thats confidence, he snapped.

Youre driving a 64 Impala, Angel explained. Theyve got a 95 Cavalier. Youllplow through them like a knife through butter.

Xander kept his course steady. You sure they know that? he asked, his voice shaky.Can we get something to eat after this? Buffy asked, leaning forward over the seat.

Sit down, Angel and Xander said in unison. Buffy pouted but did so.Theyre not turning, Xander murmured.

They will, Angel assured him.Theyre not! Xander exclaimed as the cars raced toward one another.

They will! Angel spoke.No they wont, Buffy tossed out from the back seat, rolling herself down off the seat on

to the floor.To Xanders amazement, a skinny-looking Faith popped up out of the passenger side

window of the Cavalier and began firing at them. The first bullet cracked the windshield; Angeland Xander ducked. Jesus Christ! Xander blurted as he tried to drive and stay below the

windshield at the same time.Hit them, Angel suggested. Dont let them get away.

Are you crazy? Xander asked. You obviously dont pay car insurance.His drivers side mirror exploded into shards of metal and glass.

Hit them! Angel directed him. Itll knock Faith out of the car and stun Ethan. Hitthem!

Okay, Xander grumbled, popping his head up over the steering wheel.The Cavalier was frighteningly close. He swerved the wheel toward the other car, trying

to brace himself for the impact. A third bullet smashed through the windshield and lodged itselfin his seat, just above his head. The big Impala lurched toward the smaller car.

Xander growled wordlessly as Ethan managed to steer away from the crash, slipping bythe bigger car and screeching away. Xander turned the Impala as quickly as he could -- the car



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required a rather large turning radius -- and took off after them. Another bullet clipped them, thisone knocking out his overhead rearview mirror, spraying more glass all over the front seat.

We can still get them, Angel urged him. Hit them from behind.Buffy mumbled something unintelligible from the back floorboards.

You okay, Buff? Xander tossed out.

Peachy! Buffy called back.Xander accelerated, aiming the car at the back of Ethans vehicle. Faith twisted aroundand began firing again.

How many freakin bullets does that gun have? Xander groused as Faith shot out aheadlight. She ducked back inside the car.

Im guessin six, Angel replied. Now, while shes reloading.Im trying, Xander told him. Big old car, remember? Not a drag racer. He pushed the

Impala, trying to catch up with Ethan, the big engine whining in protest.Theyre heading for the highway, Angel determined. Lets get em before they get

there.Trying, Xander repeated angrily as he silently willed the car to go faster.

Faiths wiry torso slid out of the window again.God damn her! Xander swore as she began firing again. This time, though, no bullets

made their way into the passenger area. Missed! Xander exulted.Shes shooting at the engine, Angel warned him. Better hit them now.

If he would slow down just a little, I would, Xander bitched.Faith popped off another shot, and Xanders car slewed wildly to the left.

What? Angel queried. What are you doing?She musta hit a tire, Xander responded from between clenched teeth as he hit the

brakes, slowing the car down and spinning it slightly. Faiths parting shot smashed the rearpassengers side window.

Xander took a long, deep breath as the car shuddered to a halt. Buffys head popped up,asking, Are we there yet?

Every shot, Xander complained. Every shot, she hit us. Every one!She is a Slayer, Angel reminded him.

Xander glanced at Buffy, and then at the vampire. So Buffy could do that?Long as she didnt mind killin somebody, yeah, Angel agreed.

Forget that, she spoke behind them.Xander put the car in park and switched it off. Lets get the tire changed, he said. He

turned to Buffy. You okay?Buffy nodded. Im great for someone who was just shot at and nearly in an accident,

sure.Xander nodded and got out of the car.

Angel turned to Buffy. Are you really okay?Buffy frowned at him. Hit them? That was the best you could come up with? Hit

them?It was better than letting them get away, he retorted.

Buffy raised an eyebrow. I guess.Angel shook his head. Come on, lets go help Xander.

Buffy sulked, but after a moment she followed him out of the car.



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*Sunnydale

The ride back to Sunnydale seemed to take very little time; after her initial exultation

over her skilled marksmanship, Faith quieted down and contented herself with watching thescenery and hoping Buffy lay on the side of the road behind them with a bullet in her

somewhere.Probably wont be that easy when I finally do kill her, she had mused, watching thedarker lumps of the surrounding features blur by against the deep blue nighttime sky.

She perked up a little when they crossed the Sunnydale border, but Faith only spoke upwhen she realized their destination. You goin where I think youre goin? she asked.

Ethan nodded. We need a vampire, in a hurry. I know this is Sunnydale, and the city isprobably crawling with them, but we dont have time to play hide and seek. The three caballeros

will be with us shortly, and they probably phoned ahead to let Rupert know we were coming.Still, Faith managed as Ethan parked the car, this shithole?

This shithole, as you call it, is the most reliable place to find a vampire, Ethan

explained.I know, Faith told him. Me and B busted Willys ass a few times for information.Ethan looked dismayed. He would recognize you?

Faith raised an eyebrow. I doubt if Willy ever forgets any chicks ass he lays his eyeson.

Great, Ethan sighed. Well, cant be helped. I need you to get the vampire, so Ill justhave to deal with the fact that everyone in Sunnydale will know were here.

We could kill him, Faith offered, stepping out of the car. Thatd keep him quiet.But then they would know we were here anyway, and leaving corpses around is not my

style.Faith set her hands on her hips. You got a real problem with killing, you know that?

Ethan raised a finger. I have a real problem with being sentenced for murder. The killingpart doesnt bother me at all.

Faith shrugged as they started walking toward the entrance to Willys. So dont getcaught.

Its not a question of getting caught, Ethan explained. Corpses have a way of upsettingthe people who so often chase me. It fuels their fire, so to speak. And unconscious bodies usually

achieve the desired effect. Were only going to have a short jump on them anyway. Its not likeBuffy will stop to grieve for poor Willy, the vampire snitch.

You gotta point, Faith admitted. You see things funny, though, you know that?

So Ive been told, Ethan smiled, opening the door. After you.Faith blinked as she stepped inside Willys. It felt like it had been ages since shed visited

a seedy, run-down place like this, and the rancid smell and dim lighting reminded her of avampires crypt. Which this place pretty much is. Ethan entered behind her, mildly surprised at

how run down the place looked, and how many vampires congregated there. He counted a dozen,and all at once he realized that this move might have indeed been a very big mistake.

You look a little lost, Willy called out from behind the bar.Ethan began to speak, but Faith responded. Were not, she answered Willy. Were just

lookin for a vampire whose balls are big enough to fight a Slayer.



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A dozen pairs of angry yellow eyes stared back at her. Willy shifted to the far end of thebar, content to watch the proceedings from there.

Faith, Ethan whispered, what are you--Time limit, she reminded him. I dont have the luxury of screwin around. She raised

her voice, looking at a burly vampire. What about you?

We dont work with your kind, he spat. And even if we did, we wouldnt go nearyou.Really, Faith said, smiling, taking a step forward. Whys that?

We know who you are, the big vampire responded. You might have gone away for awhile, but we dont forget the face of a Slayer.

Faith raised an eyebrow. Gee, Angelus isnt afraid to work with a Slayer. You sayinhes a better man than you?

No, the vampire growled.Then what are you afraid of? Faith smiled wickedly. I must weigh, what, eighty

pounds? Ninety? Youre a foot taller than me. You cant possibly be scared of me.Im not afraid of you, the vampire assured her. Im just not stupid.

No, she told him, youre just a pussy, thats all.He took a step forward.

Come on, Faith goaded him. Come on, Mr. Big Shot, come on. Take on the little girl.Come on.

The vampire tossed a glance at his fellow undead; they all watched him, waiting to seewhat he would do next.

Wordlessly he turned and lunged at Faith.Faith sidestepped his attack and moved up to him, holding the pistol at his forehead.

This may not kill you, she spoke, but Im bettin it will really give you a headache.The vampire glared down at him. What do you want?

Faith grinned. Me, I wanna paint the wall with your brains. But my buddy over here, heneeds your help. Somethin about bringin a demon back into the world. Im not sharp with

details, Faith shrugged. Im just in it for the killin. What do you say? Wanna play nice or do Iwaste you and pick onea your buds?

The vampire concealed his hunting face, raising his hands. Ill help you.Atta boy, Faith said, moving around behind him and poking the gun into the small of

his back. Lets go. She led him out of the bar.Ethan glanced around, nodded politely, and followed her.

Where to? Faith asked him when they had reached the car.Somewhere unobtrusive, he replied, opening the trunk. Get in, he told the vampire.

You didnt say-- the vampire began to object, but Faith clicked back the hammer on thepistol.

The vampire frowned and climbed into the trunk. Faith closed it, turning to Ethan.Unobtrusive, huh? Another little shitty hotel?

Actually, Ethan told her, pulling a small piece of paper from his shirt pocket, I wasthinking that 337 Richards Street might be a good place to start.

Faith raised an eyebrow. Wheres that?Ethan shrugged. It was written on our Watcher ladyfriends notepad in her car. I would

guess that its her rental place, since she just arrived in town a few days ago.How do you know? Faith wondered as she headed around to her door.



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I pay attention to what the Watchers Council does any time Im coming to Sunnydale,he told her.

He let himself in the car, opened Faiths door, and started the vehicle.

*Oh, I so wanna go here, Buffy growled.I guess that spell must be wearing off if you know where here is, Xander replied.

Xander, Buffy assured him, even under the influence of a spell, I could never forgetWillys.

Xander shook his head. Gotta agree with that. He turned to Angel. So whats theplan?

Angel blinked. Me?Its your hangout, Xander offered.

Check out Xander, Buffy teased him. He likes being in charge.Angel glanced at Buffy. Its not my hangout, he corrected Xander. I went there to get

information when I needed it. Just like Buffy.And, from what you say, Ethan, Buffy reminded him. But heads up, guys. The

slaydar, she told them, giving Xander a look, is going off the chart. The place has visitors, andnot the board of health. Buffy frowned. Although they would have a field day in there.

But its not like theyll rush to Willys defense, Xander argued. He looked at Buffy.Will they rush to Willys defense?

I doubt it, Angel spoke. Vampires tolerate Willy. They dont care about him.Then lets go, Xander implored them, stepping out of the car.

He certainly got confident while I was away, Angel commented to Buffy.Buffy grinned. Isnt it sweet? He always gets like that when he thinks Im in danger.

Angel shook his head and got out of the car. He moved over to Xander as Buffyextricated herself from the back seat. You might wanna take it easy in there, he warned the

young man.Ive been in there before, Xander replied.

When it was full of vampires? Angel queried.Yeah, well... Xander looked at him sheepishly. No.

Then let me and Buffy handle this in case anything goes wrong, okay?Xander eyed Angel. You dont think Im up to this, Xander accused him.

I didnt say that, Angel replied. I--Lets go, Buffy interrupted, moving between the both of them and opening the door to

Willys.Hi Willy, she called out cheerfully, ignoring the vampires that loitered by the pool

tables. Angel and Xander followed her in but stayed by the door.Hey, sweetie, Willy replied hollowly.

Buffy sidled up to the bar. Willy, listen, Im in a hurry so lets make it easy onourselves. I need to know if Faith has been here.

Faith? Willy echoed.Yeah, you know, Buffy continued. Just like me, but with dark hair and a psychotic

personality?Oh, yeah, okay, Willy nodded. Yeah. You missed her by about a half an hour.



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Youre unusually cooperative tonight, Buffy noted.Willy shrugged. She kinda threatened me and some of my customers. I usually let my

people carry on however they want, but even I draw the line at kidnapping.I didnt know you had any lines to draw, Buffy mocked him.

Hey, now...

Kidnapping? Buffy asked him. Who? Who did she kidnap?Dyson, a vampire in the back spoke up.How? Angel asked from the doorway.

The vampire took a step forward. She had a gun.Xander and Angel glanced at one another. Shes a regular Annie Oakley, gettin a lotta

mileage outta that pistol, Xander commented.She also said something about bringin a demon back into the world, Willy offered.

Buffy frowned. You? Volunteering information?Willy shrugged. Like I say, I dont like people hasslin my customers. Besides, you and

Angel, and even the kid, you been all right by me. I know we aint friends or nuthin, but theypay well. And youre mean.

Buffy smiled. Thanks, Willy.No problem, he told her.

She turned to Angel and Xander. Lets go, she said.Hey, Willy called out, this aint onea those I should really be gettin outta town

things, is it?Could be, Angel answered as the three of them exited.

They took another vampire, Buffy growled.They need one to summon Agrimatto into the world, Angel announced. Has to be.

Why else would they keep one around?And that fits the whole summoning a demon part nicely. Xander looked at Buffy. Is

Ethan nuts? Doesnt he know what summoning a demon does to property values?It doesnt always include explosives, Buffy snapped.

Okay, so where would he go? The school? For the Hellmouth? Xander wondered.Could be, Buffy replied. She turned to Angel and noticed that the vampire stood very

still, as if listening to some very faint noise in the distance.She touched him lightly on the arm. Whats up? she asked softly.

Lets go, Angel told her urgently. Ethans reading from the book. I can feel it. Angelswore. He must be crazy. Every vampire in town is gonna head for wherever he is.

That wacky Ethan, Xander quipped as they all got in the car. Ya just never know whatcrazy stunt hell pull next.

Wont have to worry about that after we catch him this time, Buffy promised.

*Los Angeles

Here we go, Sam announced, opening the door. Watch your step.Shelley stood next to him, her slim frame taut with anticipation as Wesley stepped out of

the car. She had swapped her scarf for a dark pair of wraparound sunglasses.An airport? Wesley wondered. Couldnt we gather up our belongings first?



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No, Sam told him. And you look like hell, too. Ah, well. Ive already alerted theCouncil youll be coming home, so dont try anything stupid this time.

You told the Council? Jill asked him, emerging from the automobile.I only told them that you would be coming home and that your mission was over. He

gave them both a long glance. I neglected to tell them about your alliance with a vampire, or the

way you botched capturing Faith. I figure you could tell them yourself. He shrugged. Theyalready know you were unsuccessful.How? Wesley inquired.

You didnt call them yourself. I did.Oh, the Englishman replied, crestfallen.

Wait a minute, Jill complained, why are you sending me back? I dont live inEngland.

No, Sam agreed, but Travers said he wanted to see the both of you. Sam locked upthe car. He didnt sound very pleased.

He never does, Wesley agreed.You cant do this, Jill pleaded with Sam. You dont know what I had to go through to

convince them to let me in on this case.You should have thought of that before you failed them, Sam admonished her. Its my

responsibility to make sure you report back to the Council and not get involved any further withwhats going on here. Sam smiled. The orders came from Travers himself.

Shelley wrapped a hand around Jills arm. Lets go, she hissed.Who the hell are you, anyway? Jill asked her.

Need to know basis, Shelley growled. You dont.Youre really in for it, Wyndham-Pryce, Sam muttered as he took up a similar position

with Wesley. They ordered you back already, and you skipped out on them. Sam nudged himalong. You trouble-maker you.

I asked the Council for his help, Jill told Sam. He doesnt have to worry about that.They told me they would let him stay here and assist me.

Still, two failures on the same case, Sam reminded Wesley. And getting capturedtwice by Giles. Sam leaned in close. Youll be doing filing the rest of your life.

Wesley turned to face Sam. How can you so readily oppose the Councils wishes? Theyhave been around for thousands of years. And yet you, and Giles, continually flaunt your

independence and defy their wishes. What gives you the right to act so?They fired Rupert, Sam replied. And I was Kendras watcher. Youll find they are

pretty lenient with you after you lose a Slayer. Sam snapped his fingers. Actually, youprobably wont.

Shelley released Jills arm briefly to thumb the elevator call button.So whats your story? Jill asked the blonde.

Hired help, Shelley shot back. I thought we covered that in the you dont need toknow part of our little chat.

Never hurts to ask, Jill replied.Shelley allowed herself a sneer. Oh, it can.

The elevator came and the four of them boarded it.If either one of you has anything to say to one another, Sam told them, Id advise you

to say it now. Youre flying back on separate air lines.What? Wesley stammered. You cant do this!



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Yes, I can, Sam informed him. Im the chief Watcher in the L.A. area. I can do allsorts of things. He reached in his pockets and handed Jill a ticket. Youre going home via

Tokyo, and you, Wesley, will be going home via Auckland.Thats the wrong way! Jill protested.

Not if Im trying to keep you out of my hair until this Ethan thing is over, Sam replied.

And before you get the idea that youll pull anything there, my counterparts there are preparedto greet you and see that you continue on your travels.Youll pay for this, Jill hissed.

Already have, Sam told her. Those tickets were not cheap, I can tell you that. Soyoud better enjoy your flights. He glanced at Shelley. One more thing, he spoke, and Shelley

nodded and reached in her vest, pulling out a small tinfoil package. She handed it to Sam.He unwrapped it and examined the contents: two small, round, blue tablets.

Yes? Wesley asked.Open wide, Sam instructed him, pinching Wesleys nose shut.

I--ow!! Wesley objected. Sam slipped one pill in Wesleys mouth and clamped hishand over his lips until he was certain the Englishman had swallowed. Wesley glared at him, but

said nothing. Your turn, Sam murmured to Jill.No! Jill resisted him. No!

Sam gestured to Shelley, and the young woman restrained Jill until Sam could administerthe tablet.

What will these do? Wesley inquired as the doors slid open, revealing the mainconcourse.

Just tell the stewardesses that youre nervous flyers and you took something to helpcalm your nerves, but that you took a little too much. Sam winked at Wesley. Theyll

understand.Youre a bastard, Jill swore at him.

Sam shrugged. Maybe I am, he admitted, but I didnt screw up and endanger the lifeof the Slayer. You did that all on your own. Now youre going to pay for it. So dont cause a

scene here and embarrass yourselves any further. He looked at the both of them. Suck it up andadmit you failed and accept responsibility for it.

Wesley looked at Jill. Hes not entirely wrong.She felt a haze start to descend over her senses. Shut up, she drawled back at Wesley.

*Sunnydale

Youre sure? Faith asked, stepping into the circle Ethan had painted on the carpet. On

her back she wore a knapsack with most of their belongings in it, including Wesleys laptop.Im positive, Ethan replied. There are two wards around the summoning circle, andboth are very potent. Then there are two wards around your circle. Hed have to be bloody Satan

himself to get through those things. He rested a hand on Faiths shoulder. Youll be fine, Ipromise.

Faith shook her head. I dont know why I believe you, but I do.Good, Ethan smiled. But whatever you do, dont step outside those circles.

Faith fidgeted. Gotcha.



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Dyson, the vampire, glared at him from the chair hed been tied to inside the summoningcircle. And you, my friend, Ethan grinned. Dont you go anywhere either.

Go to hell, Dyson spat.All in good time, I expect, Ethan responded. Now, if you dont mind, I have a little

reading to do.

This isnt going to work, Dyson growled. I already have a demon inside me.Yes, Ethan concurred, but not like this one.Idiot, Dyson mumbled.

E, Faith ventured.Faith? he responded, moving toward the Journal of Alaric where it sat on a coffee

table, pushed to one side to accommodate the large circle that had been painted into the rug, andthe ring of symbols around it.

What if hes right? There is already a demon inside him.Ethan picked up the book. It very specifically says that Agrimatto must be summoned

into one who stays with the dead. The book is fairly flowery with its prose, but Im sure itstalking about a vampire.

Faith nodded. Okay. Long as you know what youre doin.I do, I promise, Ethan told her softly. Now let me get started, so we can bring this

slayer-demon to Earth just in time for Buffy to burst in and get her heart removed, alright?Faith nodded. Okay, she said, her face still clearly worried.

Ethan turned away from her to face the summoning circle. He opened the book, kneltdown, and began to read. Krizh batuuk nashi togash koggoth, nahai tlingolth choggash

nogrosh. Nimeda iska Agrimatto tchutek, nakali oman shreegresh makabe.A sound akin to the rumbling of distant thunder rippled through the room.

Dont do this, Dyson pleaded. Man, youve never seen a full demon. I have. Thoselittle circles in the rug wont do nothin. Stop, man, before you do somethin youre really gonna

regret.Faith watched the vampire squirm; then she turned her dark eyes on Ethan, who

apparently did not hear the vampires entreaty. Sweat poured down his face, and concentrationframed his features like a mask.

Krizh batuuk nashi togash koggoth, he began, his voice sounding deeper this time.Nahai tlingolth choggash nogrosh. Nimeda iska Agrimatto tchutek, nakali oman shreegresh

makabe.The distant rumble turned into a sharp crack, and a black line appeared in the air, three

feet long and jagged, pulsating, as if Ethans words had torn open a hole between dimensions.Red light streamed out of the hole, looking unhealthy.

Woah, shit, Faith muttered, checking to make sure she was well within the confines ofthe protective wards Ethan had erected.

Dyson stared up at the hole between worlds, sweat beading on his forehead. Stop, man!This is serious! Stop right now. You dont know whats gonna come climbing through that

gateway.Krizh batuuk nashi togash koggoth, nahai tlingolth choggash nogrosh. Ethan

continued to read. The letters in the book began to glow a dim crimson, the same color of thelight that leaked through the widening crack. Nimeda iska Agrimatto tchutek, nakali oman

shreegresh makabe.



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The hole widened with a great ripping noise, and a foul wind swept through the room,carrying on it the stench of decay and death, as if thousands of corpses lay on the other side of

the hole. Faith winced, but Ethan was too absorbed in the spell to notice the stale air.A long-fingered hand reached out from the fissure, fingers flexing, and then a black

forearm followed, a crackle of energy bristling up the length of the arm. Ethan watched,

transfixed, as the rest of the demon appeared, his lean black torso emerging from whatever lay beyond. He pushed a leg through, covered with coarse dark hair, and then, with an effort, hepulled himself through completely into this world, leaving his own behind. Upon his emergence,

the breach boomed shut, and he turned to gaze at Ethan. Evil red and yellow eyes glared atEthan, and an obsidian hand reached out toward the mage; a bright blue spark erupted where the

demons hand touched the edge of the warding circle.Pietash foggath haskata mage, the demon rasped.

Agrimatto, Ethan whispered.The demon was not physically imposing. He stood perhaps five and a half feet tall, with

predominantly black skin, and a lean torso and arms. Slim legs covered with coarse dark hairappeared human in form, and he sported no tail. A large signet had been tattooed upon his chest

in red, and crimson markings surrounded his infernal eyes. Three small, hook-like horns juttedfrom his forehead, razor sharp and black, like deadly talons. He smiled, an ugly gesture, his teeth

showing as yellow and triangular, like a sharks.Your servant, Ethan spoke, gesturing to the vampire. I have offered him to you so that

you may enter this world in the vessel that is him.Agrimatto pointed at Faith, his intention unmistakable. Hagtash mokota begaresh

Slayer.Ethan closed the book and stood up. No, he told the demon. You cannot have her. I

forbid it.Hagtash mokota begaresh Slayer hatto! the demon growled.

No! Ethan responded. There is another Slayer. Her you may consume. But this one isnot for you.

Hamekah Slayer, Agrimatto hissed.Yes, Ethan agreed. Another one. One who would stop at nothing to kill you. This one

will gladly leave you in peace. He turned to Faith. Isnt that right?Faith licked her lips as she glanced at Ethan, then turned to look at Agrimatto. Oh, yeah,

absolutely. Completely. Free reign an shit.Agrimatto closed his dreadful eyes and folded his arms. Dyson tried to twist around to

stare at the demon behind him; suddenly his features shifted to his hunting face, and his yelloweyes blinked several times. His head sagged, and Agrimatto vanished, as if he had never stood in

the room in the first place.Is that it? Faith asked. Hes inside the other guy?

I think, Ethan ventured.A short curved horn sprouted from the middle of Dysons forehead, cutting through the

flesh; a trickle of blood ran down his nose. His eyes opened, revealing the hideous red andyellow eyes the demon had possessed. This body, Agrimattos voice growled. What have you

done, mage?What your book instructed, Ethan replied. I offered you the body of one who stays

with the dead.



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The vampire broke the rope bonds and surged up out of the chair, rebounding off theedge of the warding spell. Moron! Agrimatto howled. I need the body of one who slays the

dead. In order for me to end the Slayer curse, I have to be placed inside a Slayers body, so the body will live and no Slayer will take her place. The other two horns that had adorned

Agrimattos forehead began to push their way through his new skin. I need her! he gasped,

pointing at Faith.You cant have her. You have to take the other Slayer! Ethan argued.Smoke began to rise up from the vampires arms. His eyes searched the room frantically.

This place does not possess enough power, he growled. And this body cannot sustain me. It istoo weak. I need a living body, a Slayer, or else you must summon me in my true form. He

shook his head as the vampires body began to turn to smoke. Idiot mage! Do not fail meagain!

Tendrils rose up from all over the vampiric flesh, and large cracks appeared as the skinbegan to crumble away; in a few moments the body that Agrimatto had briefly possessed had

dissipated completely, leaving no trace of the demon at all.That is some serious messed up shit, Faith mumbled.

Ethan turned toward her. Youre alright? he asked.Yep. Five by five, she responded. Physically, anyway, she added, looking at the dark

stain on the carpet where the vampire-demon had stood.Good. Hate to summon and run, but run we must.

Faith frowned. Why?Because vampires are called when I read the book. This place will be crawling with

them soon, if it isnt already.Faith nodded. And Angels a vampire. Im with you. Lets haul ass.

Ethan picked up the journal and they headed for the back door, where hed parked thecar.

Did I hear you promise that black guy that you were gonna deliver Buffy to him? Faithasked as she hopped in the car.

Yes, Ethan agreed, starting the Cavalier.Any idea how, exactly, youre gonna do this? she wondered as he tore down the

driveway.Im sure Ill think of something, Ethan assured her as he drove off into the night.

* * *

buffy: trick of the dark chapter 9

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