Faith lay on her bed waiting for Buffy to put Mr. Peepers in his crate for the night. They just finished dinner and Buffy wanted to "cuddle" for awhile before bed. Faith knew what cuddle meant; it was Buffy's way of saying that she wanted to make out. Faith was finding it harder and harder to stop at just kissing. She lay nervously twiddling her thumbs while Buffy snuffed out the candle.

"Hey, there." The blonde spoke in a sexy voice as she slid up against the younger slayer.

"Hey." Faith greeted her nonchalantly, trying to keep herself from reaching for Buffy for as long as she could. Which was pointless, since after Faith made no move Buffy simply leaned over and began kissing her. Faith gently pushed her away. "B, I can't right now."

"Why? What's wrong?" The little slayer sounded hurt.

"Nothing. I jus' don't feel like it right now. I'm tired." Faith rolled over, leaving Buffy staring after her stupefied.

"I don't understand. Are you mad at me?" The little beauty was reluctant to let it go.

"No. I told you; I'm tired." Faith cringed when she felt Buffy's hand on her bottom, patting it.

"Faithy, tell me what's wrong... please." Buffy pleaded, leaning over to kiss the back of Faith's neck.

"That! That's what's wrong!" Faith sat up angrily. "Look I stop touching you when you want me to. Why are you so pushy all of a sudden, huh?! Can't you understand I don't just want to kiss anymore! It's too hard to go to sleep after! Okay, is that what you wanted?! Are you happy, Little Miss Prim and Proper!"

Tears welled up in Buffy's eyes. "Yes." She shook her head. "I mean yes, I'm happy you told me the truth. Why didn't you tell me sooner? I didn't know this is how you felt." The golden slayer looked down nervously at her hands. "I just don't know what to do... I'm scared."

Faith suddenly felt guilt come crashing down. "I'm sorry, B. It's not like I don't love kissing you. It's just starting to get frustrating. I totally want you... like completely. Do you know what I mean?"

Buffy could feel herself blushing all the way to her toes. "Yes, I think so." She hesitated then said in a quiet voice. "You can touch me wherever you want. I won't stop you this time. I promise." She peered up at Faith, trying not to shake. The little slayer never felt so nervous before not even with Angel.

"No. You're just doing it because I want to." Faith chuckled. "I can't even believe that I'm saying this. But it should be because we both really want it not because it's just something I want. Does that make sense?"

Buffy nodded and smiled, taking Faith's hand. "I want it too. Please."

Faith felt faint as she gazed down at Buffy. "Really?"

"Yes. I do." Buffy lowered her eyes. "How do we... I mean, um... what do we... uh.." The little slayer looked flustered.

The brunette smiled down at her. "Shhh... it's okay, B. It's just kissing, but more of it. See." Faith gently slid Buffy's pajama top off. She pressed her lips to Buffy's and began gently caressing her breasts.

"Oh god!" Buffy moaned against her mouth as her nipples instantly stiffened. "That feels good."

"Suppose to." Faith spoke with a confident smile as she bent her head and licked Buffy's nipple.

The little blonde shivered, hissing her encouragement. "Yessss." Her hands tangled in Faith's hair as the brunette captured the nipple gently between her lips, sucking and nibbling it. "Oh wow, Faith!... Does it always feel like this?" She breathed out the question before she realized the ambiguity of it.

The dark slayer simply murmured and slid her hand into Buffy's pajama bottoms. She found the blonde to be absolutely soaked. It made her groan. She immediately tossed Buffy on her back and tugged off the bottoms then she glanced up and saw the fear in the little slayer's eyes. *Fuck! Faith slow down! You're freakin' her out!*

Buffy tensed as the brunette ran her fingers lightly over the inside of her thighs. "Are you okay with this, B? Do you like how this feels?" Faith asked the question as she very delicately stroked Buffy's pussy.

The little blonde could feel herself trembling as she bit her bottom lip and nodded.

"Spread your legs." Faith softly instructed.

Buffy could feel the flush spread over her whole body as she slowly obeyed. She stared apprehensively as the younger slayer crawled between her legs. She could see Faith's grin as the brunette looked up at her for a moment before lowering her mouth to Buffy's pussy.

"OH MY GOD! AHHHHHHH! OH FAITH!" The small slayer clutched at her as the pleasure surged through her like a lighting bolt. Buffy gasped for breath as she shook and came, crying out loudly. She fell back dazed as she played with Faith's wonderfully thick and wavy hair. The little slayer could feel the brunette still lapping at her and it was driving her wild. *Is it suppose to feel this good?!* She didn't have time to ponder as she felt another orgasm building.

"Buffy... oh fuck!" Faith moaned as she slid two fingers inside of Buffy. She could feel the slayer moving against her, and hear her begging and whimpering in ecstasy.

"Oh that feels soooo good.... Faithy... mmmmm.... Oh Faith... Ahhhhhhh!... Oh Yess... Harder... Oh please... god yes!!!!"

.............................

They awoke to the sounds of Mr. Peepers complaining. He needed to go out. Buffy gave Faith a shy smile as she climbed out of bed and picked Mr. Peepers up.

The dark slayer watched, relishing the sight of naked little Buffy having to get up early to attend to a fussy pet. The blonde opened the airplane door and set him down, giving him a nudge. He tottered down the stairs and toward the jungle.

Buffy turned back to find Faith staring. "Good morning."

The brunette rewarded her with a dazzling smile. "Yep. Good morning. Come here."

Buffy made her way over and squealed as Faith pulled her down and began kissing her. "Faith."

"Yes?" The dark slayer moved back and studied her. "What?"

"I love you." Buffy could feel the blush rising to her cheeks as she said it. She suddenly felt foolish as Faith remained silent. "Faith?"

"I... I just... It's a surprise that's all." The brunette stumbled over her words.

The older slayer could feel the tears well up in her eyes. *I shouldn't have said it! Stupid! Stupid me!*

"Hey B, no don't look sad. Please." Faith tipped her chin up. "Look at me. Hey."

Buffy reluctantly met those dark chocolate eyes with her own. "Yes?" She croaked out the word, afraid her tears might spill.

"It was a surprise that's all. It doesn't mean that I don't love you. I just was speechless for a second. Buffy, you have to understand. I've always loved you. I just never thought that you'd return the feelings, and that's probably why I hated you for so long." Faith grinned at Buffy's look of absolute joy. "That doesn't make any sense, does it?" The dark slayer laughed at herself, but noticed Buffy didn't care at how ludicrous it sounded. All the little slayer was focused on was that Faith had said she loved her.

Buffy literally beamed as she asked. "Oh my god, are we really doing this?"

"Yup. It's official. We've lost our minds." They both laughed and kissed, falling back on the bed.

Mr. Peepers clambered up the stairs. He went to the table and sat down, banging his dish loudly to indicate that he was hungry.

Faith pulled away, and raised an eyebrow. "Aren't you going to feed your baby?"

"Faith!" Buffy sat up and swatted her. "Are you saying if I had a baby, he'd look like a monkey?"

"No, I'm saying you're baby is a monkey." Faith laughed as Mr. Peepers clapped his little hands together.

*****
Part 21: First Full Moon

"Faith, you have to see this!" Buffy called out excitedly. "Faith, come here!"

The brunette came out of the jungle carrying several long sticks. "What? What is it?"

"Come on Mr. Peepers, show Faith." The golden slayer encouraged as the baby monkey moved to sit in front of her. "Okay." Mr. Peepers covered his eyes with his tiny hands. "Peek-a-boo!" The little monkey peered at her quickly then covered his eyes again. "See!" Buffy covered her eyes and continued to play peek-a-boo with the monkey.

"Oh hey, ya taught him somethin'. Very cool." Faith sat down next to them and began sharpening her sticks.

Buffy glanced over. "Stakes? Those are pretty long, aren't they?"

"Not stakes." The dark-eyed beauty hopped to her to feet. "Spears." She chucked it into the sand to illustrate.

"Spears? What for?" Buffy tilted her head to the side. "We have real weapons to fight the natives."

"Not to fight, B. To fish." Faith smiled brightly. "For dinner, yunno."

The little blonde raised an eyebrow, skeptical. "Fish, huh? I gotta see this. Let's go."

"Okay. But if I catch `em, you clean `em."

"Deal." Buffy and Mr. Peepers followed Faith to the water and settled on the beach to watch.

....................

Buffy stifled a laugh as Faith missed again and began her colorful cursing. "Faith, come on. Watch your language. Mr. Peepers is young and impressionable."

The brunette scoffed. "When you teach him to talk then you can bitch at me for swearing."

Chuckling a bit more, Buffy pulled Mr. Peepers onto her lap and handed him a banana. He snuggled happily in the slayer's arms as he peeled his treat. Buffy whispered to him in a conspiratorial tone. "Now watch, our Faithy's gonna miss again... and when she does, clap. Okay?"

The little monkey squeaked as if he understood. Flinging the spear and missing again, Faith fell forward into the water. Mr. Peepers jumped up and began clapping and chattering.

"Dammit, B!" Faith glared at the little blonde who now rolled around, laughing.

"I'm sorry, Faith." She gasped between laughs. "He just did that on his own."

"Well, cut it out! I'm trying to do this for you." The dark slayer stood up scowling. She felt foolish. She could kill vampires, but she couldn't spear a stupid fish. *What gives?!*

"Okay. Okay." Buffy held up her hands. "No more laughing. I swear. Right, Mr. Peepers." The tiny monkey nodded his head and quieted down.

"Ooh, I'm gonna get this one, B. It's a big one." Faith perched on the rock and slowly raised the spear. "Yup, I got it." Her arm shot out at record speed as she lunged forward.

Buffy's lips twitched. She expected another miss. But this time Faith raised the spear with a satisfied smile. A fish wiggled on the end of it.

"Hey, look at you.. good job, Faithy." The green-eyed beauty gave her a dazzling smile. Blushing, Faith walked up and tossed the fish next to Buffy. "EWWW!" The blonde wrinkled her nose in disgust.

"You said you'd cook it."

The little slayer looked up with a pout. "Okay, but this is as far as I go. If you kill a pig, you're doing the cooking, got it?"

"Yeah, okay. I know how you are about those damn piggies." Faith teased as she settled next to her and closed her eyes. "Now go make dinner."

.......................

They sat around the fire, finishing their meal. "B, this was really good." Faith leaned back studying the pretty blonde sitting across from her.

Buffy beamed, proudly. "Really? You liked it?"

"Totally."

The small slayer moved to sit next to the brunette. She snuggled up close and patted her lap. Mr. Peepers hopped up with his doll as they settled back, quietly watching the fire.

...............

Faith was the first to wake up. She thought she heard drums in the distance. Carefully, she slipped out from underneath Buffy. Their fire had gone out. The brunette glanced around. Mr. Peepers had fallen asleep on the other side of Buffy, clinging to her.

Faith smiled at the site. They both looked so cute like that. The dark slayer bent her head and placed a soft kiss on Buffy's lips. The little blonde stirred, and smiled up at her. "Faith." She grinned and reached for her girlfriend.

"No. Get up. We should go inside." Faith grinned at her as she gently picked up the sleeping monkey. "I'll carry him inside, but not you."

"Aww... please, Faithy." Buffy laughed teasingly. Now it became a challenge. She laid there, waiting for the younger slayer to come back out. "I'm soooo tired. Please, carry me too. You don't love Mr. Peepers more than me, do you?" Buffy pouted then grinned as Faith rolled her eyes and came to pick her up.

They both heard it this time. "What the hell?" Faith turned toward the jungle.

"Drums. They're here, Faith." Buffy looked up at the sky, muttering to herself. "It's the full moon." She stood waiting as Faith rushed into the plane to get weapons.

"Time to meet our neighbors." The dark slayer remarked as she handed her counterpart a sword.

*****
Part 22: Netting A Slayer

"B, I'm gonna try to get closer. Stay here." Faith whispered as she squinted toward the clearing.

"No, I'm coming with you." The little slayer insisted, grabbing the brunette's arm. "We stick together, remember?"

"Yeah, okay B. C'mon."

As they approached the beating of the drums stopped. Both the slayers froze and exchanged a nervous glance. Faith gestured for Buffy to circle around. She nodded and headed off while Faith crouched down and loaded her crossbow.

Twigs broke under Buffy's foot as she crept up. The little slayer leaned on her sword and knelt forward peering through the foliage. All she could make out was a cage, with a boy in it. He looked terrified. Buffy slowly approached, keeping an eye on the rest of the natives who began dancing around the fire as the beat of the drums began again.

Faith heard someone to her right; she crouched low to wait.

"Shhh..." The little blonde held her fingers to her lips as she opened the cage and freed the frightened native boy. She took his hand and guided him back into the jungle. The dark slayer made her way over. Buffy whispered. "Take him out of here. They're going to notice him missing any minute now."

"No, I'm not leaving you." The brunette reached for her as the newly freed boy stared on in stunned silence.

"I'll be right behind you. Now move!" Buffy ordered impatiently.

The drums stopped again, and a clamor could be heard. Presumably, the natives had noticed their missing sacrifice. Faith grabbed the kid's hand and ran, pulling him along as Buffy turned to fight them back. When the brunette glanced back, it was just as they threw a net over Buffy.

"Dammit! Wait here!" She pushed the boy behind a tree and made her toward the struggle. "What the fuck!" Faith stood there confused. Buffy was gone and so were the natives.

*****
Part 23: The Prophecy

Buffy clenched her teeth in frustration as the natives chattered excitedly. They were standing around the slayer staring in amazement. The little blonde was becoming angrier by the minute. *Rude much?!* She scowled, and they nervously edged back, bowing. *What the hell are they saying?!* She couldn't make out a word of their language.

Lifting her, they carefully... almost reverently laid her into their canoe. One of them leaned forward and removed the dart from her side. He chanted and lowered his head, gently checking her wound. Saying another prayer, the man rubbed an ointment on it. If only she could move, she'd snap his neck. *How dare he touch me!*

As if sensing her displeasure the man sat up and barked an order. Buffy could feel the canoe moving and see her and Faith's island receding. A tear trickled down her face. *Faith!*

............................

The brunette slayer circled back twice, cursing and digging at the dirt. "Buffy! Buffy! Where'd ya go?! PLEASE!!! ANSWER ME!" She fell to her knees in tears as the boy tentatively approached her.

He was terrified. He'd never seen anyone like her. She was so strong and the way she looked... beautiful... pale... godlike. He fell to his knees with her, chanting and bowing. She must be a god, her and that other girl. They were gods. He was sure of it. They had taken human form to save him. Malaki's prophecy had come true. The two god warriors had become flesh.

Faith glanced up at the shaking boy. She squinted for a moment then studied him. "What's with you, kid?!"

"Goddess do Oh, eu imploro que eu posso olhar em cima de voc�." He lowered his eyes fearfully.

"Oh great!" She stood up and kicked a tree in frustration. It cracked; the boy's eyes widened in shock. He began chatting and bowing wildly. "Look kid, cut it out! I only speak English, yunno!"

The boy nodded. He understood why they could not communicate. She was a god so she spoke the language of the gods. Being a mere mortal, he was not worthy to understand, just to obey. The boy threw himself prostrate on the ground before her.

"Oh jesus!" Faith reached down and picked the boy up. "Kid, I need to find my girlfriend. Can you help me?"

*She is looking for something.* He understood that much. He had just witnessed her digging and grieving. *What does this god seek?* The boy struggled to guess. *Perhaps she needs her partner. They are not meant to be separated. The prophesy was specific.* He nodded his head and waited for Faith to place him gently on his feet.

"Okay kid. Lead the way."

.............................

Buffy looked on in confusion as they laid her on an altar in the center of the village. All the villagers rushed out and their drums began beating. She watched as they whispered a prayer and fell to the ground in tears. *What the heck is going on?!* If only she could move...

*Ugh!* Buffy struggled to overcome the paralyzing effect of the dart, but to no avail. She lay helpless as they began to chant and several women rushed forward.

The little slayer was delicately lifted and carried to a hut. They placed her on a pallet and began undressing her. *HEY! WHAT DO THEY THINK THEY'RE DOING?! NO NAKED!!! LEAVE MY CLOTHES ON!*

*****
Part 24: On Display

Buffy remained helpless as they stripped her. A flush of anger and shame went through her body, giving it a slightly rosy glow. The natives stared in wonder. She was so beautiful.

"Olhe sua beleza. � verdadeiramente dos deuses." [Look at her beauty. She is truly of the gods.] The natives fell to their knees, chanting.

*Oh brother!* Buffy closed her eyes tight as they carried her from the hut and placed her back onto the altar.

..............

"Kid, are you sure? This doesn't go anywhere; it's a dead end." Faith stopped in her tracks eyeing the boy with mistrust.

Nervously, he reached for her hand. "F� do goddess do Oh, voc� � esse do prophecy. Eu e meus povos s�o seus empregados humble. Eu n�o o falharei." [Oh goddess Faith, you are the one of the prophecy. Me and my people are your humble servants. I shall not fail you.] His small hand took hers.

She grinned at the boy. He was kind of a cute kid; he just needed some of that crazy face paint washed off of him. Faith ruffled his hair and nodded. "Okay kid, we'll check it out."

The boy beamed at her as he pulled her behind the shrine and moved an ornate statue mounted on the side. The stone slide aside revealing a door. "Holy shit! That's how they disappeared like that!" Faith ran into the tunnel with the boy following close behind.

"F� do goddess do Oh, voc� deve esperar-me! Estes t�neis s�o muitos." [Oh goddess Faith, you must wait for me! These tunnels are many.] The boy's little legs were tiring.

Faith noticed him slowing and scooped him up. He squealed with excitement. *To be carried by a god!* He blushed with pleasure.

The dark slayer glanced at his awestruck expression and chuckled slightly before asking. "Which way?!"

The boy stared at her for another moment then pointed.

........................

A large tub of water was carried in front of the fire. Buffy watched as they set it down. *Oh god! They're going to boil me!*

The chanting began again then a man in a head dress stood up and sprinkled things into the water. The little slayer's green eyes opened wide. *Seasoning?!*

"N�s imploramos seu favor que pode voc� emitir a f� do goddess logo. Malaki foi julgado digno. O prophesy veio passar." [We beg your favor that you may send the goddess Faith soon. Malaki has been judged worthy. The prophesy has come to pass.]

Buffy was lifted from the altar and placed in the tub. She sighed as her body settled into the warm, perfumed water.

Two women rushed forward and knelt on either side. "N�s damos os agradecimentos a ser julgados dignos que n�s podemos cleanse o para a luta." [We give thanks to be deemed worthy that we may cleanse you for the fight.]

*Huh?* The little blonde stared in horror as they began bathing her while the villagers looked on. *Hey, privacy here! Do you mind not staring! Ugh!* Buffy's face burned with embarrassment as the natives crowded closer to watch.

"Voc� pensa do outro goddess ser� assim bonito?" [Do you think the other goddess will be so beautiful?] One of the native men asked another.

"Sim. Outro ser� escuro onde este � dourado." [Yes. The other one will be dark where this one is golden.]

.......................

Faith kicked at the sand in frustration. They had reached the end of the tunnels and now stood on the beach. The boy pointed to a distant island.

"Hang in there, B! Just hang in there!" The dark slayer turned to the boy. "You better hope they don't hurt her or I will kill every last one of your tribe!"

*****
Part 25: Worshipped

They lifted the small slayer from the water and held her up while the natives knelt and rested their foreheads to the ground chanting. Buffy watched in utter confusion. *What are they doing?!... Praying?!*

A grass skirt was wrapped around her waist and a little crown of flowers was placed upon her head. They carried her back to the altar and laid her down. *Hey, a shirt would be nice!* Buffy thought angrily as the women carefully rubbed perfumed oils on her skin.

The little slayer felt a twinge in her legs. *Yes! My muscles are starting to wake up.* She laid still, knowing that she would need to be patient until her full strength returned. Blessing her one last time, the man in the head dress clapped his hands. Buffy was placed on a golden litter and carried about the village. Natives came out from every corner to look upon their beautiful god.

"ALRIGHT, WHAT GIVES?!" The slayer could hold back no longer. This whole thing was long past irritating. The moment the villagers heard her voice they dropped to their knees in fear.

The man in the head dress stepped forward and began speaking. "N�s somos seus empregados humble. N�s imploramos suas merc� e prote��o. O demon evil, devours de Caliki-guy n�s. N�s temos esperado por muito tempo sua chegada. O sangue de nossas crian�as est�ve derramado para seis luas cheias enquanto o prophesy exijiu. E nossos prayers t�m sido respondidos hoje � noite. Voc� veio conservar-nos do curse evil em cima de meus povos. Voc�, goddess, foi feito a carne e n�s temos para esperar somente o outro goddess grande, f�. Traga-a por favor adiante de modo que voc� possa lutar o demon evil junto. Excepto n�s, por favor."

[Golden one, we are your humble servants. We beg your mercy and protection. The evil demon, Caliki-guy devours us. We have long awaited your arrival. The blood of our children has been spilt for six full moons as the prophesy has demanded. And tonight our prayers have been answered. You have come to save us from the evil curse upon my people. You, goddess, have been made flesh and we have only to await the other great goddess, Faith. Please bring her forth so that you may fight the evil demon together. Save us, please.]

"I see. Well, you do realize that I understood absolutely zero of what you just said?!" Buffy arched an eyebrow in annoyance. The litter was set down and women rushed forward with bowls of food.

Clenching her fists, Buffy tried to force her muscles to respond. *Ugh! This isn't working!* She sat back in frustration as a feast was laid out before her.

............................

"How do we get there?" Faith gestured toward the island. The boy just tilted his head, confused. Wading in the water, Faith pantomimed swimming and looked to the boy.

"No. do Oh, � muito demasiado distante. N�s construiremos um canoe." [Oh no, it is much too far. We shall build a canoe.] The boy smiled proudly as he mimicked paddling as if in a boat.

"We don't have a boat, kid." Faith peered out over the water. It looked like quite a distance to swim. She didn't think that she could make it, at least not at night. "Come on. We'll have to wait until morning." The slayer grabbed the boy's hand, leading him back to their plane.

When they arrived the boy stared in wonder. "Este � o p�ssaro que o carregou do c�u." [This is the bird that has carried you from the sky.]

"Listen kid, my name is Faith." She gestured to herself. "Faith." Touching the boy, she asked. "And you are...?"

He grinned broadly. "Elei." The boy sounded it out for her. "Eee-lay... Elei."

Faith extended her hand. "Nice to meet you, Elei. Now come inside. We need to feed Buffy's monkey."

..........................

Buffy sat still as the woman raised the sticks to Buffy's lips. She eyed the food suspiciously but opened her mouth. She was very hungry and doubted they were trying to poison her. If they wanted her dead they could have easily killed her already.

The little slayer chewed slowly. It only took her a moment to identify the fluffy substance. "Rice!" She exclaimed with a smile and opened her mouth for more. *Rice is nice and yummy.* She watched with great interest as lobster was set before her and coconut milk. Trying with all her might, Buffy reached out and was successful at gripping the wooden cup. She drank down the milk thirstily, taking large gulps while the natives watched her in awe.

Buffy set down the cup and stared at the villagers. "What's up with you people anyway?!" She shook her head when they chanted in unison and bowed. "STOP THAT!"

A hush fell across the villagers as they awaited further instruction. Perhaps their goddess needs a sacrifice to appease her. They trembled in fear. The man in the head dress stepped forward carrying her sword.

*Shit!* Buffy hedged back from him as he came closer.

Plunging the sword into the ground, he knelt. "Goddess do Oh, eu imploro a honra para ser seu sacrif�cio." [Oh goddess, I beg the honor to be your sacrifice.]

Buffy stood and pulled the sword from the soil. She tested her strength, swinging it around expertly. If she wanted to she knew now she could easily fight them and escape. The slayer glanced down at the man baring his neck. *What the hell is he doing?!* The little blonde reached down and took his hand. "No, get up! I'm not going to hurt you."

"Sua merc� � bested somente por sua beleza, a dourada." [Your mercy is bested only by your beauty, Golden One.] Tears filled his eyes as he bowed and kissed her hand.

Buffy rolled her eyes. "Great, thanks." The little slayer stepped down. She walked past all the kneeling natives and stood at the edge of the village peering into the darkness. Her slayer senses were tingling. Something was out there... something big.

*****
Part 26: A Monkey, a Boy, and a Slayer

Faith looked on with amusement. Elei was having great fun playing with Mr. Peepers. Which turned out to be good, because the moment Mr. Peepers noticed Buffy missing he began shrieking and throwing things. After a short excursion into the jungle the baby monkey returned realizing that Buffy was nowhere to be found.

After much cajoling, they managed to calm him and even get him to eat dinner. Now Elei and Mr. Peepers were tossing a ball back and forth. The little monkey couldn't catch, but he could fetch, and throw... sort of.

Faith laughed as the ball skidded past and knocked one of the stupid china dolls off the shelf. She hated those ugly dolls, but when Buffy found them in the crate she insisted on putting them out. It shattered, causing them both to stop and look at the slayer.

Faith shrugged it off and threw the ball back to Elei. Sitting back down with their map, the brunette added the tunnel and marked the island that she now knew held the natives. First thing in the morning Faith would swim for it. She had no other choice.

........................

Buffy walked the perimeter of the village with the natives shadowing her in wonder. There was definitely something out there. *What was it the man in the head dress said?... They want something from me.... What?* The little slayer peered back at the people who cowered from her. She glanced down at her sword. *They gave me my weapon back?... Why?.... Duh!... To slay!*

Buffy peered back into the darkness. She didn't like what she was sensing. Whatever was out there, was a scary beastie for sure. The little blonde turned back toward the villagers. "What's out there? What is it?" She gestured toward the jungle.

The man in the head dress stepped forward. "Caliki-guy.... Caliki-guy."

"Alright. What do you say we deal with this Caliki-guy in the morning? I'd like to see what I'm fighting. Besides, I wouldn't mind having Faith here for back up." Buffy strode back toward the center of the village.

"Sim, a f� do goddess. N�s esperamos a f� do goddess, oh o dourada." [Yes, the goddess Faith. We await the goddess Faith, oh Golden One.] He nodded his head and bowed, gesturing toward a hut.

Buffy followed, entering the hut amidst much chanting from the natives. She turned to cast an irritated look in their direction. The chanting stopped. *Geesh! They sure like to pray!* Perching on the edge of a pallet, the slayer watched as the man in the head dress performed some ritual and then bowed, backing out of the hut.

The blonde looked down at her chest. *I'd really like a shirt.* She sighed and laid back on the pallet.

......................

When Faith awoke it was to find Elei and Mr. Peepers gone. "Damn!" She jumped up and headed out of the plane. The slayer stopped short at the site that greeted her. "Hey." She smiled at the young boy. He sat with the little monkey twisting reeds. Faith glanced at his work quite impressed. "How did you manage this?" She gestured at the partially built canoe.

Elei smiled up at his goddess. She was even more beautiful in the morning sun. Yes, she would save them from Caliki-guy. He stood up and pointed at the canoe. "N�o � deixado muito para fazer e este ser� mar digno." [There is not much left to do and this will be sea worthy.]

Faith looked over the canoe. It would work. She sat between Mr. Peepers and Elei and picked up some reeds. He quickly showed her how to twist them. *Can't be that hard, right? If a monkey can do it...* Faith glanced at Mr. Peepers who squeaked and climbed onto her lap.

"Hey there, you miss Buffy too, don't ya?" The slayer smiled as Elei handed the little monkey more reeds to weave.

"Sr. trabalhando Peepers do sustento. N�s n�o somos feitos ainda." [Keep working Mr. Peepers. We are not done yet.] The boy patted the monkey on the head as Mr. Peepers screeched, taking the reeds from him. They all went back to work weaving the thatch for their canoe. Faith figured they'd be done before noon.

.......................

The little blonde slayer stretched and yawned. She froze for a moment, taking in the unfamiliar surroundings. *Faith!* Hopping up she headed for the door, determined to be taken back to their island. *Mr. Peepers and Faith must be worried about me.*

As soon she exited the hut, a hush fell over the village. Buffy peered around at all the staring natives. She glanced down at herself, and squealed in embarrassment as she brought her arms up to cover her chest.

The villagers found her modesty amusing, but squelched their chuckles. Somehow it seemed very disrespectful to laugh without permission. They lowered their eyes and stood waiting for instruction from their goddess.

Buffy rolled her eyes and dropped her hands. The other women were topless too, so it mustn't matter too much. She strode over to the man in the head dress. "I want to be taken back." She struggled to explain when she noticed his blank look. "I have someone who will miss me if I don't return."

The man clapped his hands. "Alimento! Para o um reparo dourada uma festa. Deve comer e construir sua for�a. Apresse-se, logo o goddess que a f� chegar�."

[Food! For the Golden One fix a feast. She must eat and build her strength. Hurry, soon the goddess Faith will arrive.]

A great deal of activity began to take place. Buffy sighed in frustration and went over to the chair she sat in last night. *Well, at least they'll feed me.*

................

Faith examined their craft with a skeptical eye. "I sure hope this holds up long enough to get us there." She turned to look at Elei who wore a proud smile. "Okay kid, let's go."

The slayer pushed the canoe into the water. The boy ran along side pulling it. Mr. Peepers screeched and jumped in.

"Alright, that's it. Get out!" Faith shouted at the little monkey as he screamed and clung to the inside of the boat.

"O Sr. Peepers quer vir com n�s." [Mr. Peepers wants to come with us.] Elei gave her a pleading look.

"Ugh! Fine, we'll take the damn monkey! But you have to look out for him, I have Buffy to worry about." The slayer grumbled as she tossed the crossbow and a sword into their canoe. She slid a dagger into the back of her jean shorts, and pushed off. Mr. Peepers and Elei squealed with excitement as the current caught the canoe and helped speed it along.

*****
Part 27: The Rescue

Buffy sat eating the delicious food laid out for her. She was munching on the bowl of grains given to her. It was kind of like GrapeNuts cereal. *Not bad.... Crunchy!* Buffy smiled as she poured more of the goat's milk into her bowl.

The villagers watched her with great interest. They all became excited when their goddess took her cup of milk and poured it over her food. It seemed strange to them. But if the Golden One did it then it must be right. The natives imitated her, pouring their goat's milk over their grains. Slowly, the man in the head dress lifted his bowl. He tasted it very carefully while the other villagers looked on, curiously.

"Mmmm, Bom. � muito bom." [Mmmm, Good. It is very good.] He announced to the others. The villagers began eating their new breakfast food with zeal. Yes, the Golden One was very special. They smiled at her happily as they ate.

..........................

As they approached the shore, Elei jumped from the canoe and began dragging it in. The slayer hopped out and lifted Mr. Peepers into her arms. She carefully put the baby monkey on the beach and went back for the weapons. "Okay kid, stick close." She handed him the dagger, slinging the crossbow over her shoulder and picking up her sword. "Let's go."

......................

Buffy settled back in her chair and patted her stomach. She was quite full, almost lethargic. *A nap would be nice.* She smiled to herself as the natives rushed about clearing the mess.

Several had formed a line, and began presenting her with gifts. The slayer beamed, well pleased as a beautiful conch shell was presented to her. The native bowed low and stepped aside. "Thank you. This is beautiful." She set the shell to the down and gasped in surprise as a perfect pearl necklace was offered up. "I can't take this... really." Buffy declined, guessing the value of such a gift was too high. But then again they are on an island, it's not like it has monetary value to them. Buffy hedged as she looked at the dazzling necklace.

.................

Faith crouched low behind the bushes with Elei and Mr. Peepers. She peered through the foliage and was stunned by what she saw. The brunette stared in shock at a topless Buffy sitting quite contently on... what could only be described as a throne. Faith looked on as one of the villagers placed a pearl necklace around the older slayer's neck. *What the hell?!* Faith lowered the crossbow, confused.

The baby monkey pushed past her, and peeked at what Faith was watching. When he saw Buffy he shrieked loudly and ran quicker than Faith could react. She fell forward trying to grab him, but was too late. Mr. Peepers made it out into the open and was hurrying toward the blonde slayer. He was chattering, and squeaking, hopping around her in excitement.

Buffy eyes got big. "Mr. Peepers!" She scooped him up and hugged him tight. Her eyes darted about. *If he's here so is Faith!* The little slayer rushed in the direction that the monkey had come from. "Faith! Faith!"

The dark slayer hovered for a moment uncertain. If she were to expose herself then she wouldn't be of much use to Buffy. *What kind of a rescue is this anyway?!* She knew that she should have left that damn monkey at home. Faith glanced back at Elei. He seemed less unsure and stepped forward.

Faith frowned but followed suit and stood up.

"Faith!" Buffy was in her arms so fast they almost both fell to the ground.

"Nice stealth there, Mr. Peepers!" Faith scowled at the baby monkey who screeched and tried to hide in Buffy's arms. "Yeah, you better stick to her like glue or I might just..."

"Faith! Don't yell at him!" Buffy pouted and kissed her fellow slayer. "How long have you been creeping around in these bushes anyway?"

"Long enough." Faith gestured at Buffy's topless state. "Quite a site you make there, B." The brunette laughed as Buffy blushed crimson.

"Yeah, well it wasn't my idea. They took my clothes." The small slayer complained, but she couldn't keep the smile from her face.

"I would have been here sooner, but our little pal Elei thought it was too far to swim so I humored him and we built a canoe." Faith grinned proudly as Buffy raised an eyebrow impressed.

"You built a boat?" The little blonde asked as she hugged Mr. Peepers tight and gave him the attention he wanted.

"Yep. And it's gonna take us home. C'mon." Faith took Buffy's hand and started to pull her along. The dark slayer wasn't sure why the villagers were on their knees chanting, but she really didn't want to stick around to find out. "Time to beat it before these pygmies give chase. C'mon B."

"No. Faith, we can't." The small slayer resisted.

"WHAT?!" Faith peered over at Elei, surprised to see him kneeling and chanting too. "Look, I came here to rescue you! And you don't want to go?!" Her tone was incredulous.

"Faith, it's not that I don't want to go. But these people need our help. Something's living in the jungle, a baddie... a demon maybe." Buffy gestured to the natives. "They've been mostly nice."

"Yeah, except for their little habit of sacrificing their children every full moon. C'mon B, you can't tell me you're okay with that shit!"

"No, I'm not. But I don't think it's something they normally do. They keep talking about some prophecy or something. I think they were performing sacrifices..." Buffy paused uncertain. "To us."

"WHAT?!" Faith grabbed her roughly, not noticing the tension among the tribe as they argued. "How can you say that?! Like slayers would ever want a bunch of kids murdered. B, if we weren't there, poor Elei would be fly food!"

"Exactly. It was our need to protect him that got us to expose ourselves."

Faith sighed in frustration. "I'm not following your line of logic here." She turned and began to pace. "Okay B, tell me what you want to do."

"Stay here, and slay whatever is hurting these people." Buffy crossed her arms self consciously over her chest when she noticed Faith's gaze straying.

"Huh?... uh..." Faith tore her eyes from Buffy's beautiful breasts, shaking her head. "Yeah, okay. Whatever." She glanced back down at the blonde's barely covered nakedness and grinned.

Buffy cleared her throat. "Faith! Do you mind not staring like that! Everyone is looking."

Faith peered back over at the villagers. She was right; they were staring. The brunette laughed and took Buffy's hand. "Sorry B. You're just... um... well.." Faith chuckled. "You're like little Miss Goody-Two-Shoes and here you are strutting around all these people with barely a stitch on. It's just funny, that's all."

Buffy scowled and headed back toward her seat. "Maybe you should just go home."

"Awww... c'mon B. Don't be that way. I was just teasing." Faith followed behind trying to make up. She stopped and looked at their audience. "Hey, what's with these people anyway?"

"Tell me about it." Buffy rolled her eyes and sat down.

Hesitantly, the man in the head dress approached Faith and knelt. The younger slayer glanced down at him. "Hey buddy, whatcha doin'? Get lost!" Faith walked past him and grabbed Elei's hand. "Kid, are ya gonna be alright now? They're not gonna try and kill you again are they?" Faith gestured with her hand. "You know, kill... or hurt you?"

Elei shook his head. "No., n�o mais sacrif�cios. Dourado intervindo como o prophecy predisse. Voc� veio e agora conservar-nos-� do Caliki-guy."

[No, no more sacrifices. The Golden One intervened as the prophecy predicted. You have come and now will save us from Caliki-guy.]

Faith sighed and sat down next to Buffy and Mr. Peepers. "So where do you want to look first for this thing?"

The man in the head dress rushed forward with the two women who had bathed Buffy. They began pulling at Faith's clothes. "Hey! Beat it!" Faith shoved them away.

"Aww... come on, Faithy. Go with it. Look, it's what everyone's wearing." Buffy teased, suddenly interested in seeing Faith in a grass skirt.

Faith eyed her carefully. "Fine. You want to see the twins?!" The brunette pulled her shirt off causing Buffy to gasp.

Faith!"

"What? I thought you wanted me to go with it."

*****
Part 28: Honored

Faith laughed at the little slayer's sputtering. "B, you okay there? You look like you're about to blow a gasket."

"Faith.. I can't believe you!" Buffy brought her hands up to cover the younger girl's chest.

"B, whatcha doin'? Your boobs are out for everyone to see! Somethin' wrong with my rack?!" Faith arched an eyebrow, teasingly.

"Nooo. That's not it. It's just... it's just that... Well, dammit Faith! You're my girlfriend! And I don't like you showing your goodies to whoever wants to look!" Buffy ranted, standing on her tiptoes in an effort to be eye level Faith.

The brunette chuckled. "B, you're jealous? That's hilarious! I'm supposed to be the crazy one not you." She smiled as she bent to kiss Buffy.

"No! No! No! I don't think it's cute. Put your shirt back on!" The little slayer scowled, crossing her arms and waiting.

"Make up your mind." Faith shook her head as she picked her shirt back up and put it on. "First you tell me to go with it then you get pissed. I don't get you. But hell, what's new?!" The dark slayer grumbled as she walked away from her.

"Faith.. please." Buffy held out her hand.

"Yeah." The younger girl rolled her eyes and took her hand. "So are we going to go kill this demon or what?"

"Yes. We just have to find it's lair. Can you ask Elei about this Caliki-guy?" Buffy pointed at the boy. "It seems like you two found a way to communicate."

"He's a good kid. I like him." Faith grinned as she sauntered back over to the boy. "Elei, we need your help." The boy stood proudly and nodded. "Where is this Caliki-guy?"

Elei took Faith's hand and they set off toward the jungle. Buffy ran over and grabbed her sword, handing Mr. Peepers to the man in the head dress. "Will you watch him, please? His name is Mr. Peepers."

The man gently took the baby monkey. "Sr. Peep-ers... Peepers?" [Mr. Peep-ers... Peepers?]

"Yep. Take care of him please. He might be hungry." Buffy kissed him, and he began to fuss. "No, you're staying here. Now be a good little monkey." The blonde ran off into the jungle. "Faith! Elei! Wait up!"

.......................

The boy gestured toward the cave and held up the dagger Faith had given him. The brunette stepped forward. "Okay kid, stay back. B, it's in here. I can feel it."

"Me too." Buffy crept in behind Faith. "Ewww... it stinks in here."

"I'd guess that to be the reason." Faith pointed. On the floor of the cave were half eaten villagers.

"Oh god, that's disgusting! We are so going to kill this thing!"

"Yup." Faith whispered unsheathing her sword. "B..." She motioned to her left. Buffy nodded and moved in that direction. They could hear a hissing sound.

"Oh yuck! I hate these! Argh!" The little blonde growled out in frustration. "It's a snake thingy! Why are they always snake thingies?! I hate snakes!" Buffy shouted as she swung her sword. The beast darted out and knocked her back.

"Holy shit!" Faith gasped as the demon slithered toward Buffy. "Hey you! Yeah, you!.. Ugly snake thing, get your ass over here!" The brunette slung the crossbow down with one hand and fired. She nailed it in the throat but it barely slowed him down.

Buffy hopped to her feet. "Caliki-guy!"

The giant snakeman turned quickly to face her.

"That's right! We know your name. We've been sent here to shut you down. The buffet is closed!" She did a spinning kick knocking him back as Faith jumped on him and slammed her sword into the top of his head. He bucked her off.

"Elei! Dagger!" Faith shouted to the boy who was still peering into the cave. He immediately tossed Faith the dagger and she plunged it into the demon's eye. The beast let out a shrill scream and fell back.

That was the opening that Buffy needed. She wielded the sword expertly chopping the demon in half. It squealed and fell to the ground twitching.

Buffy walked over and helped Faith to her feet. "Well, I guess that's it." She dusted Faith off and kissed her. "Good fight."

The brunette grinned. "Piece of cake."

"Not exactly my sentiment. But we got the job done." Buffy and Faith stepped from the cave to be greeted by a very excited Elei.

"Goddesses do Oh, voc� f4-lo. Voc� derrotou a besta grande, Caliki-guy." [Oh goddesses, you have done it. You have defeated the great beast, Caliki-guy.]

"Yeah, no sweat." Faith handed the boy the dagger. "Here you can keep this... a souvenir."

The boy's eyes lit up as he excepted the gift. He rushed into the cave.

"Elei, where are you going?" Buffy moved to stop him, but Faith held her back.

"Let him."

Elei returned from the cave dragging the demon's severed head. Faith chuckled. "Kid, ya need help with that?" She picked up the trophy for him. "C'mon."

...................

When they returned to the village, the slayers were amused by the site that greeted them. Mr. Peepers was sitting on the chair of honor. The natives had fashioned a tiny crown of flowers for him and he wore a small grass skirt.

The villagers were beating their drums and dancing about while the baby monkey sat watching and eating.

"Look at that B. Betcha he doesn't want to leave with us." Faith teased her.

The little blonde frowned and marched over to pick him up. She had to smile at his tiny costume. He looked so cute, and he was so happy to see her.

The villagers went silent when they saw the two slayers. Faith handed Elei the large snake head, and he dragged it to the center of the village to the cheers of the natives.

"B, I kinda dig this hero stuff." The brunette laughed as several men came forward and lifted her onto their shoulders carrying her around.

Buffy smiled at her girlfriend. "Get use to it, sweetie. When we get home you're going to be one of the good guys."

"Oh yeah? I thought you liked me bad?" Faith joked as they set her down.

"Faith!"

"I'm just joshin'! Geez B, lighten up." The dark slayer grabbed the little blonde and gave her a long slow kiss.

"Faith." Buffy tried to back out of her arms. "They're all staring." The small slayer blushed as she glanced at the fascinated natives.

"Yeah. So? B, I don't think they care."

Buffy took in their smiling faces. "You know I think you're right."

The man in the head dress stepped over to them. "Hoje � noite n�s teremos uma festa para nossos goddesses e Sr. Peepers. Apresse, escave o po�o e n�s ca�aremos um porco." [Tonight we will have a feast for our goddesses and Mr. Peepers. Hurry, dig the pit and we will hunt a pig.]

A cheer went up.

"What's that about?" Buffy turned to the brunette.

"Beats me." Faith shrugged.

The village became a scene of great activity. Elei rushed over the slayers. "Oh os grandes, voc� ir� na ca�a com n�s?" [Oh Great Ones, will you go on the hunt with us?]

"Kid, I don't know what you're asking?" Faith gave him a perplexed look so Elei stepped back and tried miming a hunt. He even made a squealing noise like a pig.

"Hunting? Go hunting? Oh, I get it. B, they want us to go hunting with them." The brunette grinned turning to Buffy. "Whaddya say, B? Want go kill something else?" Faith laughed when Buffy made a distasteful face.

"No, Faith you know I don't like killing helpless little animals."

"You don't like killing them, but I'm guessing you'll be at the table eatin' `em!" Faith smirked. She glanced at Elei. "Yeah kid. Count me in. But B, will hang out with the women."

"Faith!" Buffy swatted at her in irritation. "Don't leave me by myself."

"I'm not. You've got your sissy monkey to keep you company." The younger slayer laughed as Buffy became more agitated.

"DON'T CALL HIM A SISSY!"

"B, he's wearin' a skirt." Faith pointed at the little monkey's costume. Mr. Peepers looked down at the skirt and reached up to touch his flowered crown. He liked being dressed up. It was what Buffy was wearing. Mr. Peepers screeched and stuck his tongue out at Faith.

"Hey, would you look at that! The damn thing takes after you even. It's a brat!" The brunette snorted as Buffy stuck her tongue out too. She leaned forward and kissed the little blonde then picked her crossbow and followed after Elei and the other men. "Have fun."

Buffy walked to the edge of the village with the other women. "Faith, be careful. Please."

The brunette laughed. "B, we're hunting for pig. What could happen?" Faith gave her a dimpled grin and a wave before disappearing into the jungle.

Buffy looked at Mr. Peepers who had covered his eyes. "Yeah, I know how you feel."

*****
Part 29: The Hunt

Faith hunched down next to Elei. "Okay kid, stick with me. I don't care what B says. These damn pigs are mean lookin' little buggers." The slayer grabbed the boy's hand. They circled back when the other hunters signaled.

A squeal was heard and the natives let out a roar. The chase was on. Elei shouted, excited. "Para A F� Do Goddess!" [For the Goddess Faith!] The other hunters chanted, and Elei was carried off with the crowd.

"Shit! Elei!" Faith called out, rushing after them. There was a scramble in the brush and everyone scattered. "Elei!" The brunette looked around confused. *Where the hell did they all go?!*

Suddenly the bushes parted and an enormous wild boar charged toward her. Faith froze for a minute in shock. This was no little piggy. "Damn!" Before she could react Elei dove in front of her.

"Eu colocarei minha vida para voc�, goddess." [I will lay down my life for you, Goddess.]

"Elei! NO!" Faith grabbed the boy and swung around, placing her body between Elei and the boar. She screamed in agony as the boar's tusks gored her. "FUCK!" She fell to her knees. Rolling to the side, she threw Elei clear of the attack and reached up gripping the boar behind the ears as it bit her. "Argh!"

The slayer patted the ground, feeling around for her sword as the boar lowered his head and gored her stomach.

"You fucker!" Faith's hand touched the cold steel. She lifted the sword quickly and slit the boar's throat. "Umph!" All the air was knocked from her lungs as it collapsed on top of her.

Elei shouted in panic. "Ajuda! Ajuda!" [Help! Help!]

The other hunters came out off the brush and sped over to their fallen goddess. They lifted the boar from the slayer. Faith looked up at them and laughed. "Well, at least it's a big one."

She tried to stand but her legs gave out.

.............................

Buffy sat cross legged next to the other native women. They were showing her how to make a lei. She sat with Mr. Peepers on her lap, copying the nimble movements of their fingers. Soon she had fashioned a reasonably pretty flower necklace. Buffy kissed the top of Mr. Peeper's head.

"What do you think? Will Faithy like it?"

The baby monkey pulled it over his head and clapped. She laughed as he climbed off her lap and sat next to her, crossing his legs trying to imitate her. The little monkey reached for some flowers and began weaving them into a necklace. He squeaked with excitement when he finished. Jumping up, he placed it around her neck and hugged her.

"Awww... Mr. Peepers, you're so sweet." The blonde pulled the little monkey into her arms rocking him gently. "But I'm still going to make you take a nap." Mr. Peepers scrunched up his face and stuck out his tongue. "Yeah, see if that gets you anywhere, Mister." Buffy laughed as she carried him to the hut.

As she laid him on the pallet and tucked him in, she could hear shouts from outside. *Faithy's back!* Buffy ran out thrilled.

The hunters were celebrating, carrying the enormous boar. Its legs were tied to a stick that four men shouldered. They set it down near the pit and let out a shout. "� f� grande do goddess!" [To the great goddess Faith!]

Buffy gasped as she saw Faith stumble forward, smiling. The brunette was covered in blood. "FAITH! OMIGOD, FAITHY!" Buffy cried as she rushed forward and caught the younger slayer in her arms.

"Relax B! It's not my blood. It's the pigs." Faith chuckled, struggling not to wince. She didn't want Buffy to know that she had gotten hurt. After all, her parting words were, what could happen?

The brunette gingerly sat down with Buffy fussing over her. The women prepared the tub, and Buffy gently stripped off Faith's clothes, not caring who saw. She wanted to wash some of the gore off her fellow slayer. She didn't belief that Faith was unhurt.

Sure enough, Buffy's hands brushed over the wounds. "Damn you, Faith! You lied to me!"

"Not really... it was mostly the pig's blood." Faith shrugged, wincing as Buffy roughly scrubbed the wound. "Easy there. It hurts bad enough."

"I just wanted you to admit it. That's all, Faith." The blonde became very gentle but still glowered at the younger girl. "You're not off the hook yet though, missy."

*****