Title: Nightshade: Reunions
Author: JINX Buffywatcher
Feedback: Constructive comments always
welcome: Feedback boards @
Spangelish
Pairing: S/A. D/D, assorted other pairings
will come and go throughout the series.
Rating: Mature Readers 18+ Slash
Spoilers: Minor ones for Buffy and
Warnings: Mature reader 18+. There is
Violence, Adult language, situations, and content. There will be some character
bashing here or there as pasts are dealt with and put into perspective and
overcome. Beware of the Scooby-bashing ahead.
Disclaimer: Just borrowing them for a bit of
harmless fun. All characters, recognisable likenesses are retained by their
owner and accredited license holders.
Writer's Notes: This story takes place in an AU
setting. Season 5 of
Writer's Credits: Various songs are used and they
remain the property of their owners, licensees, authorized agents, labels, and
services. The majority of the art being used belongs to either the ever
talented Hobbit or to me (JINX) or other sundry artists. A poem from
Writer Websites: JINX's Website: Shadows In A Mirror: Her Personal Archive: Nightshades
JINXI's
LiveJournal: http://www.livejournal.com/users/jinxeffect
The
Crypt: http://home.att.net/~lubakmetyk/crypt.htm#buffywatcher
Distribution: If I've already been given
permission to archive my work please consider it yours if you want it. If I
haven't and you would like to archive it please do, all I ask is that you email
me and tell me where it's going so I can visit.
Summary: Wolfram & Hart's meddling with
destiny and the powers of life and death affords the Powers That Be an
unprecedented chance to right the imbalance and two fallen heroes return with a
new mission.
Important Note from JINX about this story:
This is a very special story and it features two fully
downloadable SOUNDTRACKS as well as various pieces of artwork that help to set
the atmosphere or enrich the story. At various points in the story you'll be
prompted to listen to a particular track of music or view an image or gallery
as the story progresses. ** WANT
THE SOUNDTRACK FOR BOOK TWO? CLICK HERE! If by some chance the link expires
or fails send
an email to me and I'll send you a new download link. If you missed the
first soundtrack and need to download that one, you'll find links at the bottom
of the story.** I'd suggest doing this before you read
the story :o). I hope that you enjoy this multimedia experience :o) There's a
list of links to other files immediately following this story.
** Dedication: I
crafted this project for the second annual Forging_Ghost Anniversary Ficathon,
Hugs Stony Darlin', and for Luba, Happy Birthday! Special thanks going out to
Myst and Mandie for beta'ing this monster, it was a huge job so thank you gals!
**
Chapter Eleven
((Start track 20))
"Did everything go smoothly?" Spike's softly voiced question floats from
the darkness seconds before he does, joining them in the deeper shadows
wreathing the alley across from the club.
"I talked to Lorne; I think that we can count on him for help. The
Powers gave him a bit of a good reference for me before we talked. I have to
say I really haven't missed those migraines they hand out. You'd think they
could find a way that didn't hurt...."
"I... uh... I intercepted the ex-Watcher but I think I was a bit zealous."
Drogyn mutters, flushing as Doyle, Yonah, and Dyani all chuckle or giggle their
amusement. "But it's okay he's regained consciousness and seems fine if a
little confused. That Gunn fellow locked him in his car for safe keeping and we
think he went after
"He did and he found him as well. I heard them as I was making my way
back here. They're going to take
"Then he has the note about Sirk and warning him about
"Yes, I suspect he'll have Sirk handled within an hour of returning to
their office. He'll probably opt to have their protection wards altered to
prevent
"
"
"Yes... while
"Is it possible that
"Yes, if he's found out that Angel had anything to do with Penn being
dusted, even a minor part like not protecting him against that cop, it could
have been the last straw." Spike confirms after several seconds. "He might let
what
"Are you sure
"We can find him and take him to
"Either way it would solve the problem. Either he's reborn Human or as a
Vampire but he'd still be bound to
"If Lorne is going to consent to work with us, we don't need to approach
Harmony and it may be a good idea to keep her isolated as much as possible. The
less that she knows, the less there is that she can tell." Spike advises.
"Yes, that's a good idea
Spike tilts his head to the side slightly and he notices that the
siblings are doing the same and he quickly motions everyone deeper into the
shadows with a quick gesture. He spots a slowly leaking steam pipe and swiftly
guides them to huddle nearby, knowing that it's constant hiss will help to
cloak their presence, as will the full to bursting dumpster nearby.
They still their movement while keeping their breathing shallow and
remaining silent as they watch
Spike watches the progress of the walking pair and their silent shadow
and motions once they're safely out of range. They swiftly but silently pour
out of the back of the alley and away from the hissing heat of the steam pipe
and overly ripe garbage festering in its steel tomb.
"Can you find
"I can arrange for him to find me
with
Drogyn nods his approval and Spike fishes out his cell phone for a quick
call to his old friend with the specific instructions that will set their plan
in motion. He's hanging up just as Yonah silently slips back into the alley.
"They've gone back to their office to get the ex-Watcher checked out.
They found the note about Sirk and
"It means that some of Angelus' arrogance has worked its way closer to
the surface. He doesn't see
"He seemed more upset about someone lying to him about something. Gunn
was trying to convince him not to fly to
Drogyn glances at
Spike shakes his head. "He never got a good look at me and my scent is...
different... maybe because of
"He's a ruddy stubborn Bastard. If he can't find out how those pieces
fit he may just try to pound the pieces to make
them fit."
"You think that he's going to assume that the Watchers Council had
something to do with it?" Drogyn asks, looking at
He looks at his family and his tactically trained mind honed by
countless centuries quickly re-works their proposed plans. "Since we don't need
Harmony any longer and initial contact has been made with Lorne, Dyani you'll
be returning with Spike and me to deal with
Drogyn taps his fingertip against his chin. "If it's necessary make an
anonymous call and warn him that he's got a Judas in his midst working against him
and his friends. Tell them about the Beast in the basement cell. That should
keep them busy for a while and has the benefit of eliminating a potential
threat to
Yonah nods, casting a faintly
longing glance at Spike. He was looking forward to spending some quality time
with the sensual man alone with just the two of them.
"After your meeting with Lorne see what you can find out about that
deranged Slayer in the asylum. We need to find some way to help her or at least
make sure she doesn't escape this time." Drogyn adds looking at
Spike slips a hand into his coat and pulls out a small cut crystal orb.
A small diaphanous cloud shot through with golden and green sparkles of energy
swirls and twists in coils and whirls inside its heart.
"
"What does it do Spike?"
"
Yonah reaches out and takes the orb from
"I know
"If things work out we'll have similar access to the Council. I'm not
sure that magical assistance is going to be viable with the Red Witch in the
mix, she's a strong one." Spike notes.
"
"Are the trackers in place on their vehicles?" Drogyn asks glances at
Yonah who nods.
"I placed them on the two cars, the alarms were easily overcome. I
placed one on the Watcher's two-wheeled vehicle as well but they left that one
behind." Yonah confirms.
"They left a motorcycle unattended overnight in this neighbourhood?"
"If I know that ruddy Bastard, he probably won't even think twice about
the cost to replace it." Spike snorts in derision. "The Watcher-Boy may have
spelled it though. He was at least semi-competent in that regards if I remember
correctly from hearing Giles muttering about him."
"Shouldn't we take steps to eliminate that
"At this point
"We'll keep the Senior Partners in the dark as long as we can.
They exchange hugs and quiet requests to be careful then split up into
smaller groups and melt into the night on the way to their separate
assignments.
Chapter Twelve
((Start track 19 now))
Spike waves the pair of guards away as he steps from the slightly raised
dais that houses the oh-so-very clever pentagram that
The guards nod their heads respectfully and maintain their positions
flanking the door and the large staircase leading upward. He notes that several
merchants of various species are gathered in one corner of the room talking in
low voices. He returns their conciliatory greetings with a warm smile and
returns the shy waves of the larger built trio that's accompanied the richly
dressed merchants, as porters no doubt.
Spike's eyes take in his surroundings and he sighs with relief at being
home. The Grand Hall is a true labour of love from the people to their
Guardian. The floors are constructed of rich Terra Cotta coloured marble with
silver and gold veins running through it and it's the most marvellous floor
he's ever seen. Arranged in an intricate inlaid pattern with a more common rich
cream coloured marble, the design is amazing to behold, the unyielding stone
worked into graceful patterns that delight the eye.
Built on one of the small Peninsula islands that lie near the Isle of
Ceres and the view beyond the stained-glass framed Crystal windows is
breath-taking. The stone of the building was shaped from the very stone of the
tall plateau-topped island itself and it rises to three stories above. He is
facing the grand staircase at the center of the far wall and he smiles as he
sees the truly gigantic statues of Drogyn that never cease to embarrass the
modest warrior. As always two armoured guards are positioned beside the foot of
the central staircase. All but hidden in the shadows cast by the central
staircase are the openings that lead into two smaller rooms.
A small but comfortable lounge is on the left for visitors that are
awaiting their audience with the Guardian, well Guardians now with
To the right is a matching lounge that is dominated on one wall by a small
but functional kitchen that always has large pots of soup and stew left warming
as well various warm beverages in thermal carafes set nearby. A standing
refrigerator nearby and holds a variety of chilled drinks and fresh foods for
those that would rather snack on something lighter than soups or stews. A minor
enchantment keeps the food fresh and constantly replenished for twenty-four
hours no matter how many servings are doled out. One of the cooks or a young
man or woman from
His eyes shift upward to where the audience rooms and various offices
and other rooms for the functionaries are located. The upper level is almost
more window than it is building, Drogyn preferring the openness of an
uncluttered floor plan and nothing is jammed into the space. Every room is
generously given a wealth of space. The décor and fussy elements are downplayed
with the natural beauty of
Though he cannot see it from where he is standing he knows that a short
hall behind the central staircase leads to a downward sloping staircase that
spirals gently through the tall structure of stone. It passes through the stone
that supports the bay and into the heart of the land to the labyrinthine expanse
of passages and tunnels that lead to the heart of the Deeper Well. The
staircase leading downward is conspicuous for its lack of guards but everyone
knows that there are few that would be welcome where that staircase terminates.
The Well has no need for guards; it has its own means of defence. The maze is
but the first line of defence, only the Guardian is able to navigate the
twisting and turning paths with any accuracy, for anyone entering without his
aid or permission will soon find that they are irretrievably lost.
It's not an unusual sight to occasionally come across bones in some of
the more obscure tunnels. For those that persist and should find their way
through, the Well has more unpleasant means of encouraging visitors. The Well
knows its own and very few are welcomed and fewer still are... beloved.
He bumps his shoulder,
readjusting the weight of the bound man hanging over his shoulder with a casual
shrug. The sound of quiet footsteps draw his eye to the left of the central
staircase and he smiles as Tara floats serenely across the floor to greet him.
She is one of the very few that the lower staircase would hold no danger for.
Since her accidental bonding to Drogyn Nara has come to welcome her newest
daughter with joyful exuberance and the Heart of the Well holds no danger for
her. As the favoured daughter of
He ignores the sound of Knox's incessant whimpering as he leans over to
kiss her on the cheek.
"I've missed you Sister." He greets her warmly, smiling fondly as her
cheeks flush with gentle pleasure and she returns his affectionate greeting.
The hairs on the back of his neck
start to tingle and itch and he gently herds her several feet from the
platform. Less than a minute later a nimbus of crackling green and silver
energy encompasses the platform and Drogyn and Dyani arrive with several stacks
of neatly bundled boxes
A few gestures from
"Dyani, could you make sure that the boxes are distributed to their
proper owners. We'll... deal with
"Yes, of course
"I've prepared everything below Brother. It is all in readiness. If you
can do without me...?"
It hasn't escaped Drogyn or Spike's notice that
"Certainly, we will be able to do what needs to be done." Drogyn agrees
glancing at
Spike reaches out and traces the back of his hand down
"I'm sorry that this is necessary but the knowledge he holds could be
devastating in the wrong hands and we must be sure that no one ever learns what
he knows. We have no way to ensure his silence and confining him here so near
to
"I understand and I know that you would have chosen another course if
one were available."
"I swear to you that it will be painless and quick and as merciful as
possible." Drogyn steps closer to
He glances over his shoulder and smiles in relief to see that Dyani has
wrapped the gentle woman in her arms offering her own brand of comfort. His
steps are lighter as he joins Spike in the stairwell. The foundation stone is a
variety of lovely rosy gold quartz composite. It is traced through with veins
of a colourful fiery gold phosphorescent mineral. The tiny crystals in the
quartz reflect the light of the mineral filling the stairwell with natural
light. The staircase is wide and a brass railing bisects the center of it, sunk
deeply into the stone at a gentle angle.
He can see the concern in Spike's eyes and he knows what has him
worried. "She's alright
Drogyn's laughter echoes and almost drowns out the sound of Knox's panic
cries that are growing fainter by the second. He shrugs and lifts his leg over
the railing until he's facing backwards and pushes off with a whooping war cry.
Everything is a dizzying whirl of colour as he hurtles deeper by the
second and soon all he knows is the feel of air rushing past and tangling with
the sights flashing past his eyes. His downward flight comes to a gentle stop
as strong arms lift him into a gentle stop against a familiar body.
He laughs and looks at
Knox is struggling weakly under the pressure of Spike's boot in the
small of his back, pinning him to the stone floor like a macabre human version
of an insect collection. He's not hurting him much but he's not going anywhere
either.
Spike shrugs and carefully sets him on his feet and crosses his arms and
gestures towards the staircase. He chuckles as Drogyn jogs back up the stairs.
He waits patiently and it's not a long wait before he's reaching out to gently
stop his friend's laughing downward slide. As before he sets him carefully on
his feet and snuggles against him as Drogyn throws his arms around him happily.
"I wish you'd come here sooner, I've never been so happy. I forgot how
to play and have fun, thank you
It takes less than twenty minutes to reach one of the many antechambers
to the heart of the Well where the ancients' remains are interred. Drogyn
presses against a carving and a section of the wall swings inward to reveal the
door to the chamber and waves Spike and his burden ahead. Another wall carving
on the other side seals the heavy door after them, to
He turns to see that Spike has set
Drogyn isn't surprised to see the iciest of blue colours crystallize his
eyes for a few seconds before it's washed away by the life filled seas which
are his eyes normally. It is little wonder that the remnant of
He walks over and cups his shoulder. "I have to meditate and memorize
the spell for a few minutes before we can begin. You can speak if you wish it
won't disturb me." Spike nods but he doesn't turn around to look at him but he
does lift his hand to cover his and gives it a squeeze as it rests on his
shoulders. A final squeeze and he releases him and walks to the simple altar
"You cannot be the Most Supreme One. You would not forsake me if you
were truly that which I worship. I have been loyal, my motives pure and my intentions
only to serve. My God would not stand by, would not help these infidels in their plans for me." Knox whispers brokenly,
his eyes following Spike as he walks in slow circles around him, passing where
he can see him only to pass behind him where the chains won't allow him to
turn.
"You are nothing but a pitiful sack of bones and useless flesh who
thought that a human girl was a
fitting shell to house all my magnificence. You are as an insect, a flea
feeding upon my legacy, nothing more." Spike's voice is quiet, echoing
strangely in the enclosed space. "I walked as a giant, dimensions were tissue
paper to be ripped apart and seen through, the sun set and the moon shone at my
will and you would confine me in a prison of putrid human flesh. You stink of
failure, reek of incompetence, and they have earned you nothing but my
contempt."
"That's not true Magnificent One! I chose the most perfect of forms for
you. She was perfect in form, her manner sweet and her mind brilliant beyond
all others! You would have been a Queen among the lesser beings!"
"You raise your voice to your God and dare to argue your pitiful and
inconsequential opinions in our presence. Men have been flayed to the bone and
left to die slowly over a week for less offence than you have given, Worm. YOU who would fancy himself to be the
highest of our Priests, our Prefect among the lesser that is anything but I,
and you are the offal that clings to our boots in the killing fields. You have
sworn yourself to our service yet offered us no tribute and would seek to claim
our favour?" Spike's voice is more vibration than sound but it flows through
As he walks back into view Knox sucks in a startled breath at the
streaks of silvery blue weaving through the thick mane of pale hair lying over
his shoulders. A ring of frozen ice surrounds the pools of deeper blue as
though to protect it and it's tiny sparkles of amber and gold dancing within.
His clothing changes and alters as he watches in awe. The jacket and shirt
melting away to bare the pattern of faint blue mingled with the tawny suede of
his skin of his torso, leaving him wearing only low-riding jeans and boots. He
can feel the air moving as the strangely compelling man walks slowly, circling
around him observing. He can feel the pressure of though the very substance of
reality was being pushed ahead of him by his sheer presence. He knows then that
he is truly in the company of his God.
"Forgive me, Ancient. I spoke beyond my station and without thought.
What will you have of me?"
Spike's lip curls in silent derision at the sycophant tone in
"The question isn't what I will have but what you will give." Spike
keeps his voice soft, instinct guiding him to add a resonate purr that is
almost sub-vocal. He feels a strange heat coiling in his belly, stinging his
nerve endings to life and presses his hand over the taut skin. He rubs lightly
as his palm begins to tingle as though he was touching a live wire.
A nearly silent gasping whimper brings his eyes flying upward to notice
that
((Start Track 22 now))
Following some instinct deeper than time he takes enough steps forward
that his chest just barely brushes
"What would you give to me that I would want Little Boy? What would be a
fitting tribute?" Spike lifts the hand from his stomach and slowly traces his
fingertips along
He heaves a silent sigh of relief as the intensity backs off slightly
and no longer threatens to overwhelm his control and he knows that he has to be
very careful in the future. It would be all too easy to lose his self in the
power if he grows too addicted to using it. His talents are vast enough that he
has other options to gain what he wants.
"There is no fitting tribute. There can be nothing worthy of your
magnificence. I have nothing to give but my life. I give up my life Ancient
One." Knox whisper fervently, rattling his chains.
Spike steps back at the feel of a hand curling over his shoulder,
letting Drogyn pull him back away from
"We need a sample of his blood to anoint the sarcophagus
Spike nods silently, his fangs dropping to gleam in the low light. He
steps forward and draws
Drogyn gently moves past him holding a simple gold chalice and presses
it under the wounds and gathers the blood he needs. When he has enough he steps
back, balancing the nearly full chalice carefully. "You can take him now." He
advises quietly, moving back to the altar to weave the appropriate spells over
the content of the chalice.
He does his best to focus and ignore the breathy moans and groans behind
him, shuddering as they slowly taper off to silence betraying that
He hurriedly sets the chalice aside before he can drop it and staggers
to his feet just as Spike wrenches away from a convulsing
Drogyn turns the limp man around in his arms, his eyes breaking at the
sight of the tears running silently down the pale perfection of his face. He
makes a low sound of pain, like he'd have made if someone had punched him in
the stomach. He yanks Spike against his chest violently, wrenching his head to
the side and frantically licking at the still seeping wounds in his neck. His
hungry licks slow by increments as the wounds heal over. His hands are gentle
as they close around Spike's face, lifting it so that their eyes can meet. His
lips are tender as they trace the tracks of his tears and harvest the precious
drops until no trace remains. He presses his wrist against those fangs, still
painted a macabre scarlet from
Drogyn lets his eyes slip closed and melts against Spike, both
supporting and be supported at the same time. He knows that he loves
Somewhere out in the world, or the multitude of billions that lie beyond
the dimensional veils, there is someone that will die if they lose Spike. He
deserves to be loved that way. He's happy to know that he loves them enough to
be honest and that the love they've given to him has given him the strength to
realize that he is worthy of being loved that way.
For one reason or another he spent a century under the yoke of
Drusilla's selfish love with the spectre of Angelus as painful as his presence
had ever been. Somehow, in some way he managed to survive what would have
killed a lesser man, for a man he is indeed, though fate a Demon may have born
him to be. Destiny has always been a cruel taskmaster for the warrior too human
to be accepted by Demons and too much of a Demon to be accepted by the Humans
yet still with the charm and ability that assured he could be ignored by
neither. He accomplished the incredible, gave his life for love, for Humans, and spent centuries being thanks
for it in purgatory. A gentle captivity to be true in the amulet's possessive
hold but it's a steep price to pay for love all the same.
The soothing feel of a tongue sweeping over the punctures in his wrist
brings him out of his internal reverie to watch Spike cleaning the wound like a
Mother cat does her kitten. Under his care the wound is closed and healed with
a few passes of his tongue. He flips his wrist over and shakes his head in
disbelief, there isn't even a mark.
"That's one of the benefits of being claimed." Spike informs him
quietly, his fingertips tracing over the unmarked skin. "You'll heal faster and
my bite won't scar with just a little bit of aftercare."
Drogyn's eyes shift to where
"As much as he took, it won't be very long. I can feel him changing even
now. I think that time in the amulet may have altered me more than I thought it
did." Spike looks away from
"You're an Elder now with some eight centuries, that's bound to make a
difference." Drogyn says trying to comfort him as his hand strokes through his
hair tenderly.
"I answered another question though." Spike's voice is muffled against
his shoulder and even as close as he is to his ear Drogyn has to strain to hear
him. "I really need to find
"I know you want to try and give him a second chance but why is it so
important now?" Drogyn asks in confusion.
"Knox has more than a Demon, he has his soul too." Spike's words are a
soft bombshell in the quiet room. "I can feel it still there, shrivelled like a
desiccated walnut but it's still there."
"Lord, so you're assuming that because you have a soul and
"It's likely that
"The poor Bastard, no wonder he hates
"I am his Sire true but I haven't claimed him or acknowledged him yet,
which is what a Sire does as soon as a Childe rises to create their bond.
Without that, they are like blank slates, little more than powerful minions
without that reinforcement. Some Sires use that fact like a leash over their
childer and deny them that until they've 'earned' it. Survival of the fittest,
prove you are worthy of your lineage or perish. The art of raising Childer is
all but lost to modern generations, it's why you rarely find a Childe that's
less than a ninety years old. They're created but without proper rearing, they
die quickly." Spike reveals. "I never expected that I would create my first
Childe...." His voice trails off.
Drogyn winces and silently curses. When he came up with this plan he
should have spoken to Spike about what he was truly asking him to do. In his
heart he knows that this is necessary, as
"Don't, second guesses never solve anything. I agreed that this was the
way to go. I knew what it would mean when I said yes." Spike shakes him lightly
to snap him out of his self-pitying daze and releases him. "We don't have very
long, what do we need to do?"
Drogyn lets go of him and retrieves the chalice. "I need to anoint this
one the sarcophagus lid and then pour the rest inside to set the mystical
mechanisms and key the spells for
Spike nods and wrestles the heavy stone sarcophagus into position behind
Drogyn tips the last of the blood out of the chalice and steps back with
a final incantation and flourishing gesture over the interior of the
sarcophagus. He nods to Spike who sets the lamp on a nearby shelf and carefully
closes the book.
"It won't be much longer." Spike advises him quietly.
Drogyn nods and sets the chalice on the shelf beside the lamp and
crosses to a small wooden desk in the farthest corner. He pulls a book, one
with simple leather binding out of one of the drawers and chooses a new quill
pen with a good point and a pot of ink. He carries the items over by
He is finishing a paragraph as a sound that is half hiss and half growl
grabs his attention and his head flies upwards to see that Spike is staring
down the newly 'risen'
He observes as
"You are blood of my blood, you live by my will and you will end by will
alone." Spike streaks the blood remaining from the now healed puncture along
"I am nothing... g...g...g." The newborn replies, hissing slightly,
unaccustomed to its newly emerged fangs. It's eyes are glazed but eager as it
strains against the chains, trying to reach its Sire and Drogyn is glad that
they're enchanted to hold much stronger Demons than a newly risen Vampire.
Spike straightens, licking the last traces of his blood off his
fingertip, confident that the Demon is dominate over whatever remains of Knox's
humanity. "Do you have the memories of your shell?"
"Yes... s... s... S... s... s... Sire...."
"Listen and mark me Childe, you will answer my questions honestly. Do
you know the name
"I told no one S... s... Sire. They would have s... stopped me or us...s...d her
for their own ends... s...."
"You paid someone to bring you
"Foretold, S...s... Sire, in the scriptures of
"He refers to an ancient temple that once stood where the ruins of the
abbey at
"
"The mercenaries you hired... did they know what they were to deliver to
you, the significance of the sarcophagus?" Spike demands.
"No Sire, I told them that it was an ancient Egyptian artefact that I
needed smuggled out of
"And who was going to help you smuggle it past customs?" Spike orders.
"A Doctor... Doctor Sparrow. He did an odd job now and then for Lilah and
there isn't anything that he won't do for the right price. He hired the
mercenaries and arranged for them to smuggle the sarcophagus from
Spike glances at Drogyn and sees him writing the Doctor's name down on a
page he's ripped from the back of the book. "Are there other followers of
"Pretenders, charlatans, vain and jealous to a one; they invoke the name
of
"Give me the names that you know and where I can find them. I will take
my vengeance." Spike commands and
After nearly an hour of questioning by them both, Drogyn stands and
walks over to join Spike. "Spike, I need a tincture of green
Spike turns away to scan the shelves and Drogyn slides the stake from
the sleeve of his robe and plunges it into
Drogyn strides over and slams his hand down onto a green emerald set
into a carved starburst pattern at the center of the lid. The gem is driven
down and green energy shoots out like ripples until the elaborate carving on the
sarcophagus glows with pulsing energy. A few blinding flashes later and the
glowing energy races around the edge of the lid and seems to sink in and any
trace of the seam is obliterated. Drogyn intones a final spell and with a
waving gesture the sarcophagus vanishes.
"It's done." Drogyn announces striding across the room to take Spike
into his arms and wraps him up tightly. "You didn't think that I would make you
stake your own Childe?" He chides gently. "Knox has his wish, he is with his
God at last. I have placed him alongside
He sees the blue withdraw from Spike's hair and his eyes warm and soften
and he knows that
Chapter Thirteen
((Start Track 14 now: I suggest putting this on replay while you're reading
through this section))
They call out their gratitude to the Flyer and its rider as it lifts off
gracefully and soars skyward en route to pick up its next fare. Spike tilts his
head back and tracks the departing pair. The sight of the graceful and powerful
bird silhouetted against the twin largest of
As they walk he turns his mind inward to brush the Symbiote and his
clothing melts and rearranges as his wishes are transmitted easily. The simple
black leather soft-soled, low-heeled boots and leather trousers don't change
much. A simple cropped vest encloses his chest; the ties securing themselves
and tying off neatly; as a thigh length hooded robe-like tunic flows over the
top. The hood settles itself over his hair and shades his facial features, his
long hair neatly tucked up inside. It is a familiar style of dress among the
Rangers and Hunters that spend any length of time in the forest. Offering both
camouflage and protection against the branches and briars and other hazards,
the style of attire is well suited to their lifestyles. He reaches down to make
sure that the long dagger concealed against his calf is accessible and loosened
in it's sheathe for a quick draw. As lovely as the forest is, it has dangers
just as deadly as any back alley or bad neighbourhood you'd find in
A shifting of the deepest shadows catches his eye and he looks towards
the forest and nods a greeting to the silent Rangers watching them from the
trees. A subtle hand gesture and they silently melt back into the trees. He's
an adequate escort to ensure their safe journey through the forest to and to
the village.
A quick glance at Drogyn and he smiles to see that the Knight has done
the same with the dagger and sheathe strapped to his back. Since his arrival
both
"Will, what happened with
"I'm not really sure if I'm going to be honest. The Master was the
oldest Vampire that I knew of, though tales have always been told that truly
ancient Vampires exist, I've never met anyone that claimed to meet one
personally. I imagine if they do exist and paths crossed it was the last
walking they did. It would be the only way to keep the secret this long.
Angelus and The Master had a strange relationship, not
wholly because of Darla, who they were both jealously possessive of. What
possessed him I've never discovered but Angelus actually shielded us from
"Maybe it has something to do with my age, the magic that captured my
essence in the amulet,
"Well... I meant more what lead up to
"Oh you mean that uhhh other thing." Spike looks away with unaccustomed
shyness but he can see Drogyn nodding from the corner of his eye. "I told you
that I had some unusual gifts remember? I've always had a way of slithering
under a person's skin, especially if I can concentrate on them. I wondered if
it had grown with age and it seems that it has. I could feel
"What did you try?" Drogyn whispers, drawing closer to slip his hand
into
"I'm not sure that I can explain it but it felt like I drew him into me,
poured myself inside, mixed us together and shoved it back into him. It felt
like grabbing a live wire, the current flowed through me like electricity. He
fed into me and I magnified and multiplied it then sent it back and then it
started all over again but it was getting stronger each time. The temptation to
see how far I could push him was very hard to ignore. I think that he would
have let me do whatever I wanted to do to him. He didn't fight against me."
Spike drops his eyes.
"It looked like he was fighting to get
to you from where I was sitting and it was obvious that he aroused." Drogyn
flushes faintly, Knox's excitement was very
obvious as it leaked against the leg of his tan Chinos, so it was very hard to
miss seeing it.
"I experimented a little. I tried to find a balance that would make him
susceptible to my influence, to want to please me but that wouldn't suck me
into the feelings as well. He disgusted me. I don't know that
Drogyn squeezes Spike's hand in silent sympathy as they break from the
forest and into the vast clearing that marks the beginning of their village.
"We've got the names that he gave us.
"I'd say it's likely that the mercenaries are dead. They never delivered
"You're likely right.
Spike smiles coolly. "I think we should arrange for
"I'm not sure that we should trust that task to anyone but
"At best, he'll stick him in the cell next to Pavayne. At worst he may
decide that the life of one evil doctor who makes his living off the misery of
others isn't worth the two lives he would have destroyed. For all we know he's
already damaged Gunn as it is. If Lorne accepts
"It's rather like trying to cure the symptoms first and tracing them
back to what originally caused the damage as I understand it. She has to deal
with the separate symptoms before she can deal with the cause of the illness to
make sure that she's gotten all of their tampering out. They've probably placed
triggers and commands in his sub-conscious that he doesn't even know are there
until they prime him and wait for him to explode. Tampering with his conscious
mind is too dangerous, someone sensitive like Lorne could probably detect them.
If he's not consciously aware that something is wrong it's easier to hide it.
Unfortunately it also makes it harder to fix." Drogyn answers, recalling what
"You're right,
"
"Good eve Hunters-Lord and Master-Guardian, welcome home!" A jovial
voice calls out and they turn their heads to see a delicately built woman
waving at them with a warm smile for them both. Hearing her call out and taking
note of their arrival a chorus of greetings soon ring out, all of them returned
with affectionate waves by Spike and Drogyn.
She isn't very tall, the top of her head would barely reach the bottom
of Spike's breastbone and her features are pleasant and vaguely oriental with large
almond shaped eyes. Her long hair still shows traces of the deepest black that
it must once have been before the encroachment of the grey and silver of
wizened maturity. Her face shows the faint wrinkles that show she's older than
she appears to be but her features are rather remarkable in that her age is
hard to determine. She's aging remarkably well and looks to be anything between
forty to sixty years old. Her clothing is simple but elegant. Flat-soled black
slippers, loose black silk trousers that end just above the ankle and a
colourful silk tunic in a vivid shade of Lemon yellow edged with dark burnished
gold. Her arms are wrapped around the handle of a bamboo wicker basket that is
almost half her size. Flowers, mushrooms, mosses and plants of every
description overflow the basket and must again weigh nearly half her weight but
she carries it with the easy grace born of years of experience.
"Please allow me to help you
They're very fond of the deceptively delicate woman that despite
appearances otherwise is actually a Demon Matriarch whose true age is one of
the mysteries of
Her Clan quickly set up shop in the village and opened several thriving
businesses. The Elora Baths run by the females of the Clan is a full service
spa featuring every treatment one could imagine for health, beauty, and
physical well-being. Everything from therapeutic baths in their huge Cedar and
That the Matriarch of the Clan should have an indisputable fondness for
the Guardian and his family isn't too shocking. Her genuine affection for a
"You are dusty from the journey and you look weary, you should come with
me to the baths and relax before the dinner hour." She chides with gentle
affection and a tone that clearly states that resistance isn't possible. She
sees one of the blooms in the basket stirring and her hand snaps out to slap
the deceptively playful bloom, stopping its futile snapping towards Spike's
arms. "The Dragon Lilies are quite feisty this year." She notes with amusement
as the flower snaps closed and withdraws into the mound of greenery with an
all-too recognisable look of affronted dignity.
Spike chuckles and shakes his head in wonder. He'd never imagined that
he would ever live anywhere like
"Lady Tara can wait, Gentlemen should be fit for such a Grand Lady's
company and going to her with the dust of the forest upon you is no way to
greet her. You will come with me."
The bullying is polite but firm and within half an hour, they're lead to
the Bathhouse. The largely wooden and stone structure is very elegant, the
design clean and stylish and it resembles homes of Japanese design that Spike
has visited before. They enter the large front foyer first and are warmly
greeted by Hanako's daughters and staff. Despite having lived in
((Start track 17 now))
A shyly blushing young girl, one of Hanako's granddaughters, hands them
cups of warmed mulled wine. The floors are made from highly polished Rosewood
and
Several patrons awaiting their turn for the private baths are seated
around the room on padded benches or plump overstuffed couches and chairs. Each
has a cup of the mulled wine and some are munching on snacks being carried
about on black lacquered trays by Hanako's granddaughters. Those little touches
make the wait a pleasant one and the herbs steeped in the wine start them on
their road to relaxation. The air is warm despite the chilling night breezes
that are typical for their home year round and only grow worse in the winter
months. The entire structure has been built over the top of one of the numerous
hot mineral springs that dominate their forest home. The wood and stone channel
the heat from the steam vents and diffuses it to keep everything comfortably
warm rather than too hot.
The building is set up like a compass. At the center is the desk and
offices and built around that are several large lounges for those that prefer a
bit of privacy while they're waiting for their appointments. In-between the
lounges are several moderately sized shops selling bath and beauty products, fine
linen and towels, and a larger all-purpose shop that sells other odds and ends
for the guests of the baths.
The hallways branch out like the spokes of a wheel. At the end of the
central hallway is a large open doorway with a beautiful carved lintel. Little
detail can be seen from the front as the room is thick with welcoming warm
vapours from the huge natural mineral spring that has formed a four foot pool
there. That's the public bath, men, women, children, of all species are welcome
to use it and Hanako has decreed that it's free for any resident of Elora to
use. Even visitors are charged only a nominal fee; though some of the Inns in
their town have worked out a deal with Hanako to provide their guests baths
free of charge as part of their stay. The artisans in Hanako's family have
carefully lined the natural pool with marble, held in place with a special
mixture of liquefied stone provided by the skills of the Mine-Craft. Using
special water-resistant
The east hallway leads to smaller private
sauna rooms, each built from the stone that is found in abundance everywhere in
their neck of the forest, and carefully panelled in with a spicy scented wood
that is related to Cypress and highly resistant to damage from heat and
moisture. When the room is heated, the stone insulates the heat and keeps it inside.
The wood keeps the users away from the heated stone but also gives off a very
pleasing scent not unlike ginger with a touch of wintergreen.
The southern side of the building is dominated by the reception desk,
offices, changing rooms, kitchen, and the reception areas and diaphanous
curtains of fluttering silk provide a measure of modesty across the arched
doorways leading to the various hallways. The doorway to the western hallway is
the exception as a heavy carved wooden door obscures the secrets it hides. This
is the private section of the baths and the price reflects its exclusivity.
There are the private bathing rooms, each with a huge wooden tub crafted
from the same spicy wood that lines the sauna rooms. Each room has a shower
stall made from the stone excavated during the construction of the building and
the piping provides the same mineral rich water as in the spa-like baths. The
floors are largely stone and wood but thick wool rugs; woven by the artisans in
the village; are set here or there to give tired feet and bodies a respite from
the unforgiving stone and wooden flooring. Padded benches and backless chairs
of a faintly Roman design are provided in every room for those that wish to
lounge or for the occasional visitor that visits the patrons. Countless
lucrative contracts have been hashed out in the warmth and serenity of the Elora
Baths.
Next to the private baths are moderately sized dressing rooms where
patrons may relax and sip on drinks and nibble on delicious snacks provided by
the baths. Skilled body servants, expert valets and attendants are available to
assist patrons in dressing or doing their hair. For those that are planning to
linger in the baths, perhaps awaiting an appointment with one of the
specialists the business retains on their payroll; comfortable silk clothing
and slippers are even provided by the establishment.
A short flight of downward sloping stairs in the reception area leads to
the lower levels of the baths. The first room they come to is a large reception
room almost exactly like the one upstairs. There are locker-type rooms provided
for males, females, and neutrals where those awaiting their appointments can
change into the silken clothing they're provided. That is the realm of the
aestheticians, apothecaries, therapists for mind and body, and other small and
exclusive shops are situated.
At the far end of the farthest hallway is a staircase that spirals
upwards, up even beyond the main floor, rising to the third and last story of
the building. Here are private two bedroom apartments that are home to Elora's
growing clan of natural healers. Each Healer treats only one patient; caring
for them exclusively as they rest and recover in the second bedroom of their
apartment; tended constantly by their physician-like Healer. Pipes and valves
from the lower levels keep the air most with humid warmth as the minerals in
the steam work on mind and body to accelerate healing. It is a mutually
beneficial relationship for everyone and the Elora Council pays Hanako
handsomely for letting them establish the strangely intimate hospital to share
her facilities.
A visit to the Elora Baths can a luxury for many and everyone in the
town baths at least once but usually twice a day, either in the public bath or
privately for those that prefer it. It's not so expensive that it prohibits
even the most modest of farm hands from the occasional treat of enjoying the full
services of the private baths.
Hanako catches their hands and tows them after her. They're escorted past
the desk and the chorus of greetings from everyone by a beaming Hanako to one
of the private dressing rooms where several attendants await them. Their
clothes are taken and they're gently but inexorably moved next door to the
bathing room where they're quickly stripped, showered, and gently pushed into a
huge soaking tub to relax. Hanako and a small army of attendants buss about in
silent attendance.
As is the custom for the baths, all of the attendants, wear short silk
toga-like robes and flat soled ballet-like slippers in deference to the warmth
and humidity. While the majority are female, in deference to the fact that the
Baths are run predominately by the women in Hanako's family perhaps, are female
but there are some men mixed in as well. As is customary though, one and all of
the employees wear silken veils that obscure their features. It is sometimes more
comfortable for people to be naked around strangers or people they're not
intimate with if they can't see their faces very well. Spike supposes it could
be awkward for some if they were to meet someone in the markets that sees them
naked and vulnerable on a daily or twice daily basis. He's glad that he's not
overly modest but he's confidence is all but unshakable.
It is Hanako and her oldest daughters Nari and Kameko that silently
issue the orders to their younger family members and employees, using a sign
language of their own creation. They have raised service to others to a
veritable art form. Going so far as to perfect their silent means of
communication so that they're guests aren't inconvenienced by having their
conversations interrupted by their speaking. It is rare to hear an attendant of
the Elora baths speak unless they are spoken to. The exception is for the
scattered few that Hanako's family have taken to their hearts and are considered
family.
Hanako politely shoves her daughters aside to wash Spike's hair, an
expression of pure girlish delight on her face as she combs her fingers through
his incredible hair. Her daughters look on in fond exasperation as Nari washes
Drogyn's hair and Kameko fetches them gently steaming cups of Pear spiced Cider
to sip on.
Hanako motions to two of her daughters seated unobtrusively in a corner.
One of them rests one of the lap keyboards on her lap and begins to play as the
other begins to sing, filling the air with sweet music.
((Start track 18 now))
"I took your advice to heart Young Master. I've spoken to the finest
cooks and bakers in the village and we've made an arrangement with them to
provide food and snacks for our guests. The Vintner Clan at Walchovia is
providing us with wines and other beverages as well. Kameko's friend Gillianne
is a very talented spinner of silk and she creates the most marvellous fashions
from silk and other fabrics. Her work is becoming much sought after in the
village, especially her lounging sets and Elora cloaks. She has no store to
show her wares so Nari's Mate Odell is going to build an addition to the
bathhouse so that she can set up a small shop. On the other side will be a
small café that our guests may visit for a meal or to relax between
appointments for treatments. We provide them space and access to our customers
and in exchange they offer us their various items for our customers." Hanako
breaks her customary silence to hug Spike and praise him for his advice.
"The idea has many merits and I have heard that there are others in the
village that discussing joining in such ways to benefit their businesses."
Hanako says happily. "The chairman of the business association in
The fate of Hanako's Mate is something that she doesn't talk about much.
They know very little aside from the fact that he left their home one winter
night in the company of their firstborn son and no trace of either man was ever
found. She has confided to them that she felt forced to leave their homeland
when relatives of her Mate tried to force her to remarry and provide the Clan with
a male to lead it. Instead of accepting another Mate, she chose to take her
immediate family and leave, eventually finding and making their home in
Drogyn has made quiet inquiries to see if he could discover anything
about Tomiko's fate or that of their eldest son Taro but to no avail. He's
spoken to both Doyle and Spike about it at some length and all of them agree
that as soon as their duties with Angel are discharged to their satisfaction,
they will investigate what happened to Tomiko and Taro personally.
"Tomiko will be proud of what you have done Hanako and pleased to see
how his family is thriving. Has the little one been born yet?" Spike asks with
a smile, smoothly changing to a happier subject. He knows that the impending
birth of her grandchild is a matter of great pride as it comes on the heels of
her youngest son's recent marriage.
"It shall be any day now." Hanako smiles proudly. "Kashi's Anika is so
round that she swears she is going to birth a summer melon rather than their
child." Everyone chuckles.
"Have they chosen a name yet? The Healers will have told them if it's a
boy or girl by now?" Drogyn asks. He knows that it is the custom in
"The Healers say that it is a son and they have chosen the name
Drogyn grins and slaps Spike on the shoulder knowing that Willem is the
Naran version of his proper name
Four of Hanako's daughters return with a pair of huge towels, still
steaming faintly from the warming chest where they're kept. One on each side
holds it up for the men as their Mother gently bullies them from the tub. She
holds Spike's hair out of the water, carefully taking a second towel and wrapping
the long length that has darkened to silver with the water saturating the
tresses. The warm towels are wrapped around them and they thank the blushing
young women for their care and service as they're lead from the room and next
door through the adjoining door.
Nari and Kameko hold up carefully folded stacks of clothing for them and
they accept them gratefully. With Hanako following behind them, still patting
the moisture from Spike's hair as they walk, they re-enter the private dressing
room, Nari politely closing the door after them.
Spike sets the neatly folded clothes aside and sees that the clothes he
came in with have been neatly folded or hung from hooks sunk into the wall. He
presses his hand to each bit of clothing and it melts at his touch as the
segregated Symbiote sinks beneath his skin through the pores in his palm.
"Your skill with the Symbiote grows it seems by the day. I have never
seen anyone adapt so quickly to such a change in their lives. How did you do
it?" Hanako asks as she sets the towel aside and crosses the room for a silver
tray holding several items.
Drogyn glances over also curious as to the answer but Spike is drying
off, a thoughtful expression on his face. It's clear that he is pondering the
answer so that he can relay it as honestly as possible. He sets the towel aside
after patting the moisture from his skin and inhaling deeply and smiling at the
softly spicy scent clinging to his skin. He places the towel in a wicker basket
set in a corner for just that very item and looks at the clothing he's been
given.
The first item is a set of cord-tie trousers made from a silk that is so
soft that it feels as soft as a rose petal. The sage green colour is one of his
favourite colours and he slips the pants on, not surprised to find that they
fit. He pulls the simple cord waist-tie to fit the waistband and ties it off.
The next item is a sleeveless wrap-front tunic in the same sage green silk.
Fine embroidery, done in dark green and gold silk thread, is worked into an
elegant Celtic design around the cuffs, hem, and lapels. He slips the tunic on
and criss-crosses the front and secures it with the soft gold silk length of
silk that serves as a belt. The last item is a pair of unpretentious
sandal-like shoes made from soft dark green leather. He slips them on and sits
on one of the plump padded benches and watches Spike dress. The outfits are the
same colour aside. Spike's outfit is predominately made from a dark smoky
blue-grey silk. The embroidery is done in sky blue and dark grey and the belt
of his tunic is the same dark grey as his shoes. The colouring is especially
flattering given his strikingly pale hair and chameleon blue eyes.
He sits on a padded Ottoman-like chair set near the center of the room
at Hanako's urging, curling his legs up comfortably. His pale hair streams down
his back to pool behind him like a carelessly tossed silk scarf. Hanako chooses
a light conditioner that smells a little like a spicy vanilla cookie and works
it through his long hair with her fingers and then a large comb.
"Drogyn and
"What were the lessons?" Drogyn asks curiously, as someone knocks
quietly on the door.
Hanako politely bids them to enter and one of her granddaughters enters
with a bamboo tray holding a small fine china kettle with a dipping ladle and simple
wooden cups. Hanako motions the shyly quiet young teenager forward and she
silently serves them cups of hot Cider to sip on with a bow. She leaves as
quietly as she arrived, her cheeks flushed and they can hear the soft sound of
voices and girlish giggles as the door closes.
"Were that you were seeking a Mate Young Master." Hanako notes with wry
humour at the amusing antics of her children. "Just as well that you are not,
for all our sakes. I fear they would come to blows over you." She pats Spike's shoulder
fondly as he chuckles and tries his best to look modest but fails terribly and
they all chuckle.
"Angelus was a bastard to beat them all but he did teach me some useful
things. He thought that he was teaching me to be subservient to his wishes, to
defer to him but that failed utterly. The bloody fool taught me the lessons
that did the exact opposite. He taught me how to control myself and the Demon that lives inside me. He tried to make
me into his idea of what a Demon should be and instead he was showing me how to
defy it and him to be whatever I wanted to be." Spike reveals quietly,
answering Drogyn's earlier question. "Sometimes all that I had left was my
strength of will to get me through Angelus' lessons. If a man's
will could determine his life than Angelus did right by me because if nothing
else, he made me know myself and who I am and that sometimes willing something
to be so is enough."
He rolls his back in a cat-like stretch as Hanako switches to a large
brush with thick bristles, drawing it slowly through his hair from the scalp
all the way to the ends. "My poor mad Princess taught me a lot about strength
of will and that helped me too. The weak-willed don't exist around Dru for very
long. She tends to kill anything weaker than she is or worse thrall it into
killing itself. Surviving Angelus and Drusilla and maybe
"You almost sound like you miss them. Do you?" Drogyn asks.
"I hated them almost as much as I love them but that's not what you
asked me is it?" Spike stands as Hanako carefully gathers his hair at his nape
and closes a leather hair tie around it in the uncomplicated style he prefers.
She taps his shoulder and he moves to sit on the floor as Drogyn takes his
place on the low ottoman-style chair.
The floor is comfortable enough. A thick wool rug in a cool palette of
green and blue on a cream background is a comfortable barrier between his body
and the hardwood floors. He curls his legs under him and leans against Drogyn's
leg, turning to hook his elbow over his knee and resting his chin on his thigh.
He smiles as Drogyn predictably starts to stroke his hair as Hanako happily
works her magic on his wild locks.
"I do miss them sometimes. Then again sometimes I wake up wanting to
scream at some horrible memory of them that my brain has dragged up." Spike
admits in a voice just above a whisper.
"There are times when I forget that they aren't around anymore, by
choice as much as circumstance. The first night after I woke up souled, my
first thought was that I had to find
He doesn't pay any attention to the quiet sounds of Hanako leaving them;
his world has narrowed down to painful but somewhat dulled memories and the
feel of a warm hand stroking his hair.
"Whatever they've done Will, they haven't forgotten you. I know that much. You are a Childe of
their bloodline." Drogyn tries to comfort him.
"So was
"You don't talk about Penn much but I can hear the pain in your voice
when you talk about him." Drogyn notes, sliding the hand not stroking his hair
down his back to rub soothingly.
"
"He used to 'trade' me to other Aurelius Masters and on rare occasions
to Masters of other Orders if they were important enough to warrant my
'favours'. He gave me to a ponce for fifty pounds once because he promised to
get Angelus an audience with the Master of his Order. He was a nonce though
because he had no power with the Tepes Master and was in fact outcast. That
pissed Angelus off so much; I'd rarely seen him so angry." Spike recounts with
a strange expression on his face.
"Dracula refused to give me back and said that Angelus had agreed to the
deal. Argued that he'd said that he would try
to influence the Tepes Master and that he had. By the old codes that made me
his for as long as he continued to pay Angelus for me, which he did. Every week
he sent a Minion with the payment and Angelus refused it and staked them. By
the rules of the Orders, he was bound to the agreement and I remained with
Dracula until one night he decided that he wanted to keep me permanently. He
petitioned the Grand Council to have me declared a Tepes, his Childe and
Angelus lead the Aurelius Order to the brink of War. Unlike Dracula, Angelus did have influential allies to call
upon, some garnered by my services, willing or not. I was returned to Angelus
when it was discovered that Dracula had forgotten to send the payments during
the dispute, assuming that he would win his case. Angelus made a case that
stated by doing so he had voided the contracted." Spike's brow furrows as he
recalls the past.
"Angelus was a very strange bloke. He would use me, abuse me, dispose of me as he saw fit but as soon as it looked like
anyone was coming to care for me, he'd snatch me back." He adds absently.
"He sounds like a little boy jealously guarding a favourite toy." Drogyn
grimaces.
"As good a description for what I was to him as any other I suppose."
Spike replies quietly. "I could never figure him out.
"Darla never told us what happened to him but Dru knew, she'd seen it
happening in a vision. We would have followed our Sire, soul or not, he was all
that we knew but he abandoned us. Without Angelus there to stop her
"So it was Penn that actually raised you rather than Angelus?" Drogyn
asks surprised having heard no mention of such a thing to his recollection. The
Demon community has long considered
"Angelus began the process but though I made Master remarkably quickly I
was ignorant of much of the Lore that ruled the Old-World Masters.
"I ran into
"That's the same time that
"Yes, he'd been gored by some Nazi bull that was trying to stop the crew
from taking over the sub or something. He was the only one that could fix the
engine and save the rest of the poor devils slowly suffocating to death so
He dashes a tear away before it can fall. "As far as I know from Penn's
letters and the news I'd hear every so often,
Drogyn leans forward until he can rest his cheek on Spike's hair. "It's
no mystery why he'd suddenly snap and seek
"
Drogyn strokes Spike's hair and continues to rub his back soothingly.
"We can't do much for Drusilla but maybe we can help
"I'm not sure how much of a connection I have to Aurelius anymore. I
feel different since I've come back. Blending with
"Won't it get to
"
Drogyn presses a kiss to the top of Spike's head. "We'll try it your way
and keep the spell option in reserve for now. I think that we should limit the
use of magic for now if we can. It may be to our advantage to hide our full
resources for as long as we can."
"That sounds like a wise idea. They can't prepare countermeasures if
they don't know what to expect. If it comes down to a fight... can we win?" Spike
asks, turning his head to look up at Drogyn through his lashes.
"We can win.
"Without our help though... I don't see how
A quiet knock on the door gets their attention and Drogyn calls out
permission to enter just loud enough to be heard through the sturdy wood of the
door.
Hanako enters silently with a respectful bow. Her elegant outfit of silk
slippers, trousers and Mandarin-collared tunic are covered by a simple, black,
ankle length cloak made of warm
Spike uncurls from the floor and takes Drogyn's hand to assist him to
his feet. "We'd be honoured to have your company for dinner Hanako. We don't
get enough time to visit with you as I would like." He replies charmingly as he
crosses the room and retrieves a set of warm cloaks; made from the same warm
"Yes, my thanks also, they're beautiful. These are examples of your new
partner's work I take it?" Drogyn asks, snuggling into the warmth of the thick
"Gillianne is truly talented." Hanako agrees with a happy smile. "We
shall profit from our partnership."
Spike and Drogyn settle their cloaks around them and extend their elbows
to Hanako who blushes like a school girl as she takes their arms.
"Do you truly think that Hanako's people could be native to the plane of
your birth?" Drogyn asks curiously, as they escort their delicate date for the
evening out of the room and through the baths and out into the village.
"I think that it may be possible
"I think that it could be possible too. The people of the orient have a
lot in common with
"My children aren't comfortable with my leaving but I think that I would
like to know more about our possible relatives." Hanako's voice carries a
melancholy tone that's hard to ignore. "I understand their position, I am the
Clan Elder and the head of our household so I will give in gracefully to their
wishes." She adds wistfully.
"You are a woman of honour and responsibility
"We can arrange for some of your children to visit if you wish Mistress.
There are ways of capturing the sights and sounds of their travels so that they
may return with what they have seen. You may find some of their healing
practices very interesting as well as their herbs and remedies." Spike offers.
"I can arrange with some contacts to be an escort and guard during their
visit."
"My youngest sons Samuru and Hiroki and his mate Natane have said that
they would like to explore the plane of your birth
"Speak to them and see what you can arrange and we'll discuss the
arrangements." Spike prompts her. "There are differences between you but there
are things that somewhat the same too and maybe there are things that you can
learn as well as teach your distant kin."
"What are they like?" Hanako asks with the gleam of curiosity in her
dark eyes, twinkling like a thousand stars.
"Their lives are short, most
never seeing a full century pass and those that do very rarely see many more
than a handful of years passed that. Some can be more enlightened than others
but they are still all too typically human in some respects. They rarely see
much beyond their relatively short lives and it is a rarity that they plan much
for the generations that follow them. They have squandered the limited
resources available to them, limited as they are to one planet on a single
plane of existence as they are. That has led to strife and warfare and the
formations of various countries, governments, and factions all of which fight
each other, even in their own ranks, trying to carve out as much of what
remains as they can." Spike comments in a sad tone. "But for all their horrors,
there is beauty there as well. It's just hard to find sometimes."
"You sound like you've made quite the study of them yourself
"A hunter has to know his prey or he becomes the hunted, the first
lesson Angelus taught me." Spike looks away, he's not overly proud of some of
the things he's done in the past.
"After I... fought... my first Slayer and Angelus, well
Chapter Fourteen
Dinner was a pleasant experience for one and all and too swiftly flown
for all concerned but to all things there is an end. Dyani walked Hanako back
to her home as
While they were handling
"Are you sure that you can get
"Even if he does, do you think he'll actually help us to help
"I'm not going to give him a choice." Spike replies with a dangerous
glint in his eyes. "
"You're going to assume Penn's
position." Drogyn breathes in surprise.
"Angelus abandoned
Drogyn straightens to his full height as he looks at Spike, answering
his silent need for his approval with a proud nod. He sees
"It will take time for
"I'll contact
Spike covers Drogyn's hand and squeezes it in a return gesture, as he
spins on the thick velvet cushion of the lovely wooden desk chair that matches
their new desk and stands. He presses a kiss to
"I've prepared some things for the trip. They may not be necessary but I
don't trust Buffy and the Immortal is an unknown quantity in this that we may
have to address."
The box is lined with plush crimson velvet and cushioned on all sides by
a black satin padding. Inside the well insulated box are a collection of small
crystal orbs, each about one and a half inches in diameter, which have been
carefully arranged and stacked neatly. Drogyn slowly removes one of the orbs
and holds it up to the light. A swirling mass of greenish gold energy writhes
and twists inside its crystalline prism as though eager to escape. He extends
his senses, brushing it across the object and he smiles as he finds a familiar
pattern to the ebb and flow of the captive energy. He sets the orb back into
place and picks up another one. At the heart of the glassine prison a thick
viscous dark substance moves slowly, clinging to the side tenaciously before
finally slipping down with a silent rushing plop. Here too he finds a familiar
energy pattern and he nods satisfied. He returns the orb and gently secures the
box closed and makes sure that the latch is fastened tightly.
"What is the binding spell for?" He asks curiously, thinking of the dark
tar-like spell in the second orb. The light prism spell in the first seems
fairly self-explanatory.
"If you are discovered, that's your safety valve. The spell will bind
them from causing wilful harm to Spike and blind him from their perceptions
long enough for you to get away. They're very strong so I couldn't tell you if
the spell will be permanent. I think that eventually they'll be able to
overcome it, at least the Slayer and Immortal will be
able to. I can't cast anything stronger without being physically present which
isn't possible. It will give you a chance to escape if you're discovered
though." Tara explains, crossing her arms and grabbing her elbows in a
self-hugging motion that betrays her unease.
Drogyn looks at her and realizes that she's wearing a new piece of
jewellery that he hasn't seen before. It's a slender black collar that looks
like it's fashioned from a matte finish leather or maybe a fine suede.
Intricate runes are embossed on the collar with a grey thread several shades
lighter than the black of the background but still dark enough that it doesn't
overwhelm the simplistic design of the collar. The front of the collar dips
into a vee with the lower edge dripping farther down than the top so that the
lowest point rests in the dip of her collarbone. An ornate Ankh symbol hangs
from the collar by a series of black metal rings thrust through it in a few
places. The lowest edge of the ornate symbol almost touches the cleft between
her breasts that form her cleavage. The Ankh itself is work of true beauty and
shows the hand of a master artisan. The edges are darkest Onyx, the depth of
the purest black showing that it is made from remarkably high quality stone.
The center of the Ankh is slightly different and it takes him several seconds
of observation to realize that it's not made of Onyx but is crafted from a
single piece of Sapphire so dark that it's almost
"You're working on a new gift for
"It would be an advantage for
"It's a new find that the Mine-craft Guild is calling Spellstone because
it seems to store, amplify, and focus spell energy unusually well. They've
discovered several different varieties that superficially resemble diamond,
sapphire, amethyst, and emerald. They're not revealing where they've found it
and they're keeping a tight rein on the release of the stone but they've
generously allowed us a supply for our use."
"Is there any guild in
He blesses whatever fate that led them to find their lives joining in
such a matter as
"We all belong here; it's why we've found our way here."
They turn and see that Spike has silently returned, carrying two small
carry-on bags, designed after the ones military personnel use. They smile and
nod their agreement with his words as he crosses to join them, handing Drogyn
one of the bags.
As Drogyn carefully sets the chest
"Dyani has packed her things already." Tara informs them, unconsciously
gathering the gossamer silky shawl around her shoulders, closer around her.
"She'll be ready to go when she returns."
It suddenly strikes Spike how hard it must be on
"Since Drogyn is coming with me, perhaps it would be wiser to have Dyani
remain here? With
"That's a sound strategy, especially since we're dealing with some
volatile unknowns in all of this. From everything you've both told me, I'm not
sure we can predict with any certainty what moves
"They may opt for a more direct approach and do worse than just deny his
requests for help."
"They'll eventually try to take him out assuming he'll try to do the
same to them at some point." Spike agrees fatalistically. "We should change
before we go." He glances down at his silk clothing. It wouldn't look all that
unusual in the outer plane of his birth but he's found that he has a preference
for trying to keep a certain distance between his life here and his duty there.
Changing out of the clothes he feels so comfortable in at home is just his
personal way of readying himself for the world beyond
The sound of a soft knock and the door opening heralds Dyani's return
and Spike quietly calls out to her and she joins them. Drogyn explains the
change in plans and neither of the men is very surprised when Tara and Dyani
smile happily, unable to hide their relief at being able to stay together.
While they're relationship hasn't progressed to the point where they've
become lovers yet, it's clear to both Spike that the pair is growing closer by
the day and eventually it will happen. He picks up their bags and kissing each
of the women on the cheek he quietly leaves, feeling Drogyn at his back. He
leads Drogyn up the staircase to their bedroom suite and sets the bags down on
one of the plump roman style chaise lounges that take the place of the usual
couches or chairs found in such places.
Spike kicks his shoes off and strips out of his silk, neatly folding
them and placing them on the chest at the foot of the bed. He nudges his shoes
under the chest, conveniently raised off the floor on curved legs for just that
reason. Next to him he can see from the corner of his eye that Drogyn is also
getting undressed and he moves to the wall nearby and presses on one of the bas
relief carvings on it. A little gentle pressure and a quarter turn and a section
of the wall slides inward and to the side and reveals a sizeable walk in
closet.
Shelves, cubby holes of various sizes, shoe racks, pegs, hooks, and
free-standing racks are neatly arranged inside the sizeable room to make the
best use of the space. Everything is colour coded to make organization as easy
as possible. The areas designated for Spike are all black with a silver trim,
while red with a gold trim is for Drogyn and
It takes only a few moments for Spike to find the clothes that he wants
from the neatly organized closet. He stops to pick up a pair of soft ankle
socks from a cubby shelf and selects a pair of dark brown suede hiking boots.
He turns and exits as Drogyn passes him with a kiss on the cheek before entering
to pick out some clothes for himself.
Spike slips the ankle socks on, preferring them to the longer tube or
dress style socks that tend to annoy him by drooping annoyingly and distracting
him at inopportune times. A pair of buttery soft, well-worn black leather pants
goes on next but he leaves the row of buttons in the fly undone. The petal soft
black cotton t-shirt, his perennial favourite, goes on next. He absentmindedly
smoothes it down his chest and over his flat stomach tucking it neatly under
the gaping waist of his leather pants.
The leather is supple, the edges of the button-fly drawing together
easily as he skilfully closes the buttons with practiced twists of his fingers.
The fabric of the t-shirt is one of his older ones and it clings to his chest
only slightly less than his skin does. It's so clingy that the outline of his
navel piercing is displayed so prominently that the only thing that can't be
seen is what metal it's made out of.
Spike spares a moment in fond regret for his old duster. After decades
he knew every crease, every line and grain of that coat as well as the back of
his hand and he misses its weight around him. The method of his resurrection
was a chilly one as he re-entered the world as naked as a babe, though that was
swiftly rectified by the Symbiote. He supposes it would be a simple matter for
the silent colony beneath his skin to recreate the cherished coat but even if
they did he couldn't wear it. The style was just too distinctive. It is best
that minimize any chances of drawing unwanted attention from anyone he used to
know at this point he supposes. From a distance he knows that he doesn't look
enough like his old self to draw too much attention and that works to his
advantage so far. So far he's been able to spot and recognize anyone that could
recognize him and get away before they're close enough to be able to see him
clearly.
He sits on the chest at the end of their bed and slips into his boots,
his hands are deft and graceful as they fluttering and weave as the laces are
done up within seconds. He stands and wiggles and turns at the waist, nodding
with satisfaction as nothing bunches uncomfortably. There aren't many things
that he hates more than uncomfortable clothing. He picks up the last item and
slips it on. The sleeveless waistcoat is made from dark brown suede in a shade
that compliments his boots. The front is cut away baring most of his chest and
the dark ebony of the t-shirt over it. The material cuts back in low over his
abdomen and he laces the edges together with the same easy skill as the rest of
his laces. The waistcoat is cut to flatter his build and the sides are deeply
vee'd over his hips for ease of movement, the hem just brushing his legs at
mid-thigh height. As the cold of a gathering winter is only a minor annoyance
for him most of the time, the waistcoat is really all he needs to hold back the
elements. The outfit, like nearly all of his clothing now, is a curious mixture
of his old home and his new one in
Soft footfalls bring his head up to see that Drogyn has gotten dressed
in the closet as he emerges already dressed. He pauses to close the panel that
disguises their walk-in closet and he takes a moment to admire his handsome
friend. The black leather ankle boots, soft stonewashed blue jeans and
peasant-style, sleeveless, thigh length tunic isn't so outlandish that he'll
draw attention. The tunic is made from a soft cotton-like fabric in a warm
shade of topaz with just a hint of brown. A belt of unadorned black leather
tailors the tunic to his trim waist like a sash, pulling the hem up until it
just brushes the tops of his thighs. A black leather jacket with a dark hood
attached is flipped over his arm and he's shrugging into it as he's walking
out. He makes sure that the hood is flipped inward as he shrugs into the
thin-walled coat and it's impossible to tell that the hood is even there. The
Naran style jacket is a good choice; it will pass well enough for the leather
coats seen everywhere in London and elsewhere but if he needs to he can pull up
the hood to disguise his features.
Spike nods his approval of the outfit, preening a bit under Drogyn's frank
and thorough appraisal of his own clothing. Drogyn chuckles as he crosses the
room and gently pulls some trapped strands of his hair free by combing his
fingers through the pale strands.
"You know... I've never asked before but why do you think that your hair
turned this colour permanently? I mean it wasn't always this colour was it? At
least all the books in the archives described it differently...." Drogyn lets his
voice trail off as he realizes he's rambling.
"I'm not really sure. I've never really had much to do with older
Vampires over four hundred or so. Maybe it's something to do with my age or
maybe just one of the more strange and harmless effects of being the focus of
so much magic. It could be a natural evolution for all I know. There aren't many
examples for me to draw from. The Master was the oldest Vampire I knew of and
the next oldest that I knew personally was only six hundred or so. I don't
recall ever meeting any Vampire between the two ages. They were probably taken
down by their Orders as that is the tradition in most." Spike says absently as
he crosses the room to a large armoire and opens the large doors.
One side of the large piece of furniture is a hanging rack and several
cubby holes and two shelves. The center is dominated by drawers topped by a
large open space for various knickknacks like combs, brushes, wallets, cologne,
and so forth. A large gilt-edged mirror hangs above that and shelves holding
folded clothing and other items take up the right side of the armoire. Spike
opens the large wooden box on the top of the chest of drawers and it unfolds to
reveal a collection of jewellery.
He picks up his favourite black suede collar and closes it around his
throat, adjusting the elegant Onyx cross hanging from it until it rests flat against
his breastbone. He chooses a flat-faced watch with a wide black leather band
and places it on his right wrist. A few chunky black gold chains go onto his
left wrist. A platinum banded ring with an Onyx crest of arms goes onto the
middle finger of his left hand. Finally a set of stylized dog tags made from
black gold and Onyx is slipped over his head and left to dangle against his
chest. It's a favourite set of jewellery of his. He was glad that he'd foreseen
the necessity of safeguarding some of his more irreplaceable things by sneaking
away from Sunnydale one evening.
He smiles at Drogyn's reflection in the mirror as he steps up behind him
and chooses some jewellery pieces for himself. A signet ring that matches his;
in fact they all wear the same ring, a visible symbol that marks them as part
of Drogyn's family, is slid onto Drogyn's finger first.
While he's making his choices, Spike picks up a slender black leather
wallet and opens it. He examines the array of IDs and credit cards a connection
of
He slides the wallet and passport into one of the inside pockets of his
waistcoat and picks up the other wallet sitting on the top of the drawers. He
opens it and gives it the same thorough going over and smiles when he sees the
name
"
"He figured that he'd have to change it like you did since Angel knew
what his name was too so he chose to use his middle name Kiernan and he took my
name." Drogyn says happily.
"So you two are
Drogyn flushes with happiness as he moves to the wall beside the bed,
his palm skimming the bas relief carvings lightly. He lightly presses against
three of the carvings seemingly at random until his palm lands on a fourth. The
carving is a very life-like image of a medieval style dragon rearing up on its
hind legs to claw with its front claws and flaring its wings out and upward. It
is the same symbol that graces the coat-of-arms that Drogyn once carried into
battle as a Knight. He spreads his fingers until they cover specific spots on
the Dragon's body and presses in strongly. The whole carving sinks inward and
he turns it a quarter turn counter-clockwise and a rapid series of audible
clicks sounds out. As soon as the clicks stop he turns his hand in the opposite
direction until the carving is upside down resulting in another series of soft
clicking sounds. As soon as the clicks die to silence he turns the carving
clockwise until its right side up again and there's a single clicking sound and
the eyes of the dragon flare with a green light. As with the panel that
disguises their walk-in closet a four foot section of wall slides inward
fitting into a recessed section of the wall so that it's flush and out of the
way. A short hallway with a short flight of stairs at the end is revealed and
Drogyn steps in with Spike at his heels.
Spike pauses as he passes the section of the wall that swung inward, his
palm finding the lock disguised as a carving and he presses it in sharply and
turns it a quarter turn to the right. A solid sounding 'thunk' tells him that
the auto-closing mechanism is locked down. He jogs after Drogyn, who's gone up
the steps and emerges into their armoury room. He helps Drogyn to pick out some
smaller weapons made from a ceramic composite that won't set off a metal
detector in the airports. If they need anything more, he knows where to go in
Though it seems longer in actuality only about fifteen minutes have
passed and within twenty they've said goodbye to
Chapter Fifteen
The trip from their estate in
Under
The sound of his cell phone distracts him from his thoughts. Spike
winces at the sound of the opening strains of 'Rebel Rebel' by
He pulls the phone from the charger and flips it open, glancing at the
caller ID and sees that it's Doyle before he presses the speaker function and
replaces the phone. "Hey Mate, how's things in LA?" He asks in an affectionate
tone. He stifles a chuckle as Drogyn sits up taller and immediately checks his
reflection in the mirror as though
"I think the blighter's gone around the bend!"
"Well we knew he wasn't going to like that little note we left in the
Watcher's pocket." Spike points out, choking off a chuckle at the disgust in
"Near as I can tell he's fine but judging by the wincing he's doing
every time
"That has to be
"I think it may be our fault, at least partially. The cameras didn't get
a really good look at us while we were getting
"We don't need them to be clashing heads right now." Drogyn interjects.
"We need to give him something big to make sure he's distracted from that line
of thought. We don't have anyone in place yet that can monitor things on the
Council end."
"Has Yonah gone to take care of that daft Slayer bird they've got locked
up in the boobie hatch?" Spike asks, thinking out loud.
"He's already taken care of it. He said that he saw someone trying to
switch out the medication prescribed on her chart but he intercepted the nurse
in time to send her on a wild goose chase. He was able to get in and the
binding spell is in place but unfortunately the man he saw change the chart got
away. He was going to see if he could find a trail to follow. As far as I know,
he's still there."
"Is she a threat to
"
"How difficult would it be for you to make it look like
"That could work." Drogyn suggests. "They'll probably assume that the
Watchers somehow found out what he was doing and sent a team to retrieve
"That's a tidy package."
"Wouldn't he write that off as the Council protecting itself by removing
the abilities of an insane Slayer before she went rogue?" Drogyn suggests
helpfully.
"Now that's a wickedly clever smokescreen. We give them a reason for why
the late
"That works out in our favour too. It may get their backs up and firm up
their resolve to cut ties to the Council, which we know from the Powers is
compromised. Did that Lorne fellow accept your offer?" Spike's voice is grave
and rumbles with a snarling cadence that reveals his depth of emotion.
"He did but I think it had as much to do with the king-sized migraine
the Powers laid on him than anything I had to say."
"He could help you by planting some evidence for them to find in
"With the right elements in place I think we can lead them to the
conclusion we need them to come to."
"We're on our way through
"Ah, yes, right,
"You'll be standing in line and it starts forming behind me." Drogyn
promises. "Try not to worry too much, beloved.
"
"He'd be a formidable ally if you can get him to sign up for our side.
It sounds like your idea may just work. If
"
"You think that
"
"So he knows that
"When
"And I won't turn my back on him like
"That sounds like it may work."
Spike smiles. "It's alright
"What about the Immortal? If the rumours are true than your Slayer is
hooked up with him."
"She's not mine." Spike says stoically. "She never really was." He
whispers so low that
"
"When Yonah and I get through, I'll see what my new contact among the
Powers has to say about the Immortal. Maybe they can tell us if he's going to
be a threat to us."
"You have a new contact among the Powers?" Spike and Drogyn ask in
unison.
"Oops, I forgot to mention that, didn't I?"
"So translation for that being, someone they still had control over."
Drogyn says, his lip curling with disdain. "They can't control
"Well basically I guess that would be sort of right, very blunt but
right."
"So who is your new contact or conduit or whatever they call it?" Spike
asks, stepping in to change the subject knowing that it's a bit of a delicate
subject between
"It's a feisty firecracker by the name of
