Shackles of Destiny

Prologue

Xander Harris was having a bad day. It had started way too early, and didn't seem to want to end. At 4 am his alarm had gone off, by 4:30 am Anya had left him. She said he obviously didn't appreciate her and she couldn't marry a man that didn't appreciate her talent.

Anya had been playing the stock market; her love of money had made them rich. His bank balance was an astronomical amount, the likes of which he never thought he would see in his life time, and yet he still insisted that he keep his job. She had taken that as a sign that he didn't appreciate everything she did for him, so she had packed what little she had at his apartment and left.

He had gotten to work late and received a lecture from the foreman, smashed his hand with a hammer then miss-cut several 2x4 's before realizing his mistake. All of that before lunch. At lunch he decided to call it a day and head home, when he pulled out of the parking lot and onto the road, his tire blew out. No spare, of course. Had to call a tow truck, cell phone was dead. He had to walk to a pay phone.

Finally, finally he got home. No electricity. He knew the bill had been paid so he called the power company. 'Yes indeed, Mr. Harris a mistake has been made.' Then the part he liked best. 'Unfortunately, it can't be turned back on until tomorrow.' Xander wished he could say this was an unusual day but lately, well ever since Buffy had come out of her coma, his days had been getting worse and worse. He felt like something was coming, waiting to happen...This was worse than before the fight with Glory. He knew in his bones his life was about to change.

Time for a Scooby meeting and being ignored again, so he headed out the door, wondering what else could possibly happen in this very long awful day.

Chapter One

Xander looked around again, and groaned. 'Yep, still here.' He closed his eyes and leaned back against the marble wall. One second he had been walking through the magic shop towards the danger room, the next second he was here. Where ever here was. A temple of some sort. No windows, no door, torches were scattered about the room providing the only light. So far he hadn't seen anyone.

The silence was almost more than he could stand. His heart beat lulled him to sleep once more.

Xander woke to the feeling of a caress against his cheek. Startled he looked around, but saw no one. It was unusual for him to sleep through someone walking close to him. Growing up in his house you had to learn to rest while not quite asleep. If there was no one there and there were no windows, where did the feeling come from? 'Weird'

The lower half of his body was going numb, 'Gods how long have I been here?' And his back was sore. Sleeping on marble was a bitch. He stood and began pacing, ten steps, turn, ten steps, turn. Xander could feel his heart beating too fast and his vision changing. His hyena was getting upset, feeling caged. It was always harder to control when it felt directly threatened, and being put in a cage felt like a threat.

If there was ever a time that he was thankful for Ethan Rayne’s meddling magic it was when he had to rely on the iron will of the soldier to control the hyena.

Of course he hated them both in the middle of a fight because the two had conflicting desires in battle. The hyena wanted blood and gore, while the soldier just wanted it to be quick, kill and move on. It made him a bumbling idiot, which he hated because before the hyena incident he was actually a pretty good fighter. After the possession he was afraid of being too aggressive for fear of what the hyena might get him to do or say.

When he heard a growl echo around the chamber he realized just how upset he was getting. He pulled the soldier forward just enough to dominate the canine. After a few minutes of the inner battle, Xander's head began to hurt. He didn't know if the soldier was going to win this one.

He had to get his mind off the confining space. 'Think Xan...think about something else.' Just then he spotted the scroll. It was laying on the floor just beside where he had taken his nap. 'Well that wasn't there before.'

He bent over and picked up the mystery scroll, then walked over to the torch to get a better look. The language was familiar, not Latin, which he knew, but something similar. The more he studied the text the more words he could translate, until he could make out the majority of the scroll.

He settled on the floor and began to read and learn.

Chapter Two

Scroll of the Chosen

The end times have been foretold. When the moon shines red next to the white of the sun, four warriors shall gather. In the name of the Light, they shall fight. Their Souls shall be their strength; the strength of their will shall be their weapons. Let their mates be their guide, teacher, companion, and partner in the fight.

In balance, as ever there must be, four warriors of the Dark must be called. They fight with their hatred, the strength of the demons at their side.

As this Realm is ruled by Chaos, it too shall have its warrior. One man who knows no rest. Equal parts of Shadow and Light. He shall taste Heaven and be rejected, Hell shall not contain him.

When he has chosen, the battle shall consume them all. Half way through the text Xander sat back. This was different than the other prophecies he had read. It felt more personal, and the Chaos Warrior sounded like Angel. There were no, if this, clauses is this scroll. It told of what would be, not what could be.

He glanced down at the rest of the text and found that it was mostly directed at the warriors of the Light. One warrior in particular was described. 'And one shall be at home with the Dark and bring Light to the Shadows.' The soldier, or private Harris, as Willow liked to call him, was still there in the fore of Xander's mind, like someone reading over his shoulder, but this time Xander didn't mind. The soldier's instincts where telling him that this portion of the scroll was directed at Xander, and the clenching of Xander’s stomach was a definite sign that the ominous feeling was agreed upon by all in his head.

Xander was really beginning to get frightened but he read on. One shall be at home with the Darkness and bring Light to the Shadows. He will know the ways of the Dark and be tempted, but stay true. He will be a protector of Innocence, a White Knight of the Soul.

When he is called, three become one, Predator and Prey become Protector. The White Knights mate shall walk in darkness and be embraced be the Light. He shall be enfeebled but made whole by the Light.

Xander slammed his head into the wall behind him. 'He? Oh fuck, Spike' He began to laugh to keep from crying. 'Walk in Darkness...enfeebled but made whole'

“Oh fuck...No, please no!” Now he was getting pissed. He stood and shouted out.

“Ok, enough is enough, you...whoever you are. This is not going to happen. Me and Spike! No way. He hates me, if I went to him with a story like this he would laugh his ass off.” Xander took a deep breath; he needed to calm down, and then thought better of it. The soldier was still with him, like a back seat driver, and he could feel the hyena ready to pounce. He brought them both forward and gave a monstrous roar.

“Either face me or release me. I'm no fucking warrior, you've got the wrong guy. I'm the goddamn Zeppo. Let me go you bastards.”

The fear and rage from the hyena was blending with the fury of the soldier. Neither liked being a prisoner of war. Xander was starting to agree with them. His anger was fuelled by the thought of having to go to Spike with a story like this and by the thought that maybe what the scroll said was true. His fear and rage was that all of humanity might one day depend on him; whose mind was so splintered it was mentioned in ancient scrolls.

Suddenly it all clicked the lines between hyena, soldier, and soul blended to the point that he couldn't tell whose fear or rage or fury was whose. The words of the prophecy came back to him. 'Three become one'

His anger drained from him and he was left with only fear. For the first time in years he was alone in his head. He had never noticed before how comforting it was to never truly be alone. The silence in his mind was eerie and frightening.

“Please, someone answer me, please.” He trailed off and dropped to his knees.

He was no longer alone. No warning, no flash of light, just not there one second, there the next.

“Alexander, be at ease.” The female spoke. She was petite, blond and slightly glowing.

“Who are you?” He couldn't help but ask.

She laughed, to Xander it sounded like musical bells.

“Just a messenger, Alexander. I'm here to answer your questions.” She cocked her head to the side and looked at him with a smile.

“You might want to get comfortable, this might take a while. Don’t worry time stands still while you are here, in the Temple of the Chosen.”

“Temple of the Chosen? Wait I can't be chosen. Me? I'm just a regular guy. No magic, I'm no slayer. Not a vamp with a soul.” He said the last with a barely contained sneer. Angel had hurt his pack that was nearly unforgivable.

“Alexander...”

“Besides,” he interrupted, “if that scroll is about me then that would make who my mate? Spike, I don't think so. How does a Warrior for the Light end up with a vamp for a mate?”

The messenger lady giggled and ran a hand through her hair in an almost nervous gesture. The gleaming gold of her bracelets caught the torch light and held Xander’s attention, there seemed to be etchings on them. It was like he should know what they meant. He was pulled out of his thoughts by her musical voice again.

“Alexander, please, so many questions. Please just listen and maybe I can explain.”

Xander sat back against the wall, fingering the scroll idly. “OK, I'm comfy, shoot.”

As she began to speak Xander could tell the words were coming through her, not from her. Her voice took on a tone and cadence he had never heard before but recognized on some primal level. 'The voice of the Powers' her title of Messenger took on new meaning and he began to listen.

Chapter Three

In the beginning before the birth of this realm, there were three opposing forces.

The new rules that the Powers created told of a battle to be fought here on this plain by the best of each side. The Warriors were chosen millennia ago, and would be called in the fullness of time.

The Messenger paused; she seemed to shake herself and gave a small smile.

“So you see Alexander, you were chosen before your world even existed. Your entire life, up to this point, has been lived with the sole purpose of getting you here. Now that you have been called your training shall begin, and you must train. You are the first to be called be the Light. You will guide, lead and protect the others in the fight.”

“But...”

“No Alexander. This will be. It has been written. This is what the Powers will. You cannot change that. We don't know when the battle will be fought; it could be another thousand years. You and your mate must be ready.” Xander sighed in near defeat. How could he explain his human emotions to one so unconcerned with them? “OK Miss Messenger, I've listened to you now you can listen to me.” He took a deep breath and tried to make sense of his feelings.

“The first time I met Spike, I already had the hyena. I was given to him by a stronger alpha male as a gift. So I have always had to fight this compulsion, that...I belong to him. Back then I was fighting him, he was killing my friends. Then later he came back and the soldier respected him for the fighter that he was. I...yes, he's gorgeous, and I have always been attracted to him. But it's wrong. He is a demon, I have always had to be on my guard around him, *because* I like him so much. Spike is the Big Bad; he has nothing but contempt for me. I'm the bumbling moron to him.” Xander took a deep breath and stared at the floor.

When he spoke again his voice was much softer.

“If I went to him with a story like this he would laugh his ass off. No way would he take me seriously.”

She spoke reverently after a few moments of silence.

“Alexander, this is something that you must do on your own. We cannot help you with this.” She spoke to him as she would a spooked child. “You know in your soul, that William is a human possessed by a demon. How is that any different than you? Are you not possessed by two of them? Your love will bring Light to his Shadows. Through you, through your love, he will again be able to walk in the Light. What enfeebles him will be gone. He will be your perfect mate.”

She beckoned him forward.

“Come Alexander.”

He stood and walked towards her on trembling legs.

“Alexander, White Knight of the Powers, Protector of Innocence, I call you forward. I bestow upon you the Shield of Light.”

She placed one delicate hand around his left wrist, when she removed it a black shackle was left behind.

“Alexander, White Knight of the Powers, Protector of Innocence, I call you forward. I bestow upon you the Lance of Power.”

Her other hand went around his right wrist and left a black shackle almost identical to the first.

“Your weapons in the coming battle. Thus it has been written, thus it shall be.”

The room glowed a bright gold for an instant. When the light reached its peak Xander felt as if his mind was being torn apart, the hyena and the soldier cried out in pain. The next instant he was put back together whole with all the memories and thoughts of both beings merged as one into his soul. He finally understood himself. There was just him, Alexander. And for once the name didn't make him cringe or flinch, it felt right.

He glanced down at the bands around his wrists, like metal, but not. Etched on the left was a faintly glowing shield on the right a glowing lance, surrounding each were runes and writing. The more he stared and tried to read them the more they seemed to move and change.

“Wha…”

“Alexander, be at ease. They are the Shackles of Destiny. Your mate will receive his when you accept each other. You must embrace him as your true mate. When he accepts his destiny he will receive the red Shackle of the Heart marking him as a mate of a Warrior, and the black Shackle of the Protector to mark him as yours.”

Xander’s mind was reeling trying to adjust to all that had just happened. He was some mystic Warrior and Spike was his mate. Then something she said hit him.

“OK let me get this straight. Spike will be able to walk around during the day?! And his chip will be gone?”

“Alexander, you are worrying about nothing. Yes, he will walk in the day and yes, he will be whole. He will be able to feed again, but think on this. You are the Protector of the Innocent, not all of mankind is innocent.”

He thought about that for a while, it did make sense. Spike could feed off of the criminal element in Sunnydale. He was so used to dealing with much worse evil that he usually forgot about the regular bad guys.

“OK, what about this whole, might be a thousand years 'til the fight thing? I won't be around in a thousand years. Spike maybe, but me…”

Her bell like laughter filled the room again.

“Alexander, you are no longer strictly human. You are like me. You are…other…more. A slightly higher being.” She paused in her explanation.

“Hmm, how is this…If you get stabbed, you will heal. If you are shot, you will heal. If someone chops your head off, you pick it up put it back on and *you will heal*” she stressed the last part, “the same for your mate. You and William will be alive for the fight. During the fight you can be killed but not before.”

“As a higher being you are now stronger, faster and smarter than you where before. And do not dismiss your demons so quickly they have given you many advantages. You will need all of them to prepare for the end battle.”

She paused to look at him deeply again.

“Alexander, you need to believe in yourself and what I'm telling you. Your power is in your strength of will.”

There was a tinkling sound like many bells ringing at once.

“Alexander it is time for you to go. I can answer no more questions for now. Know that I am always here. The Temple of the Chosen is always open to you, but you must train your mind to reach this plain. I must go. Be at ease.”

As her voice faded, so did the room around him, and Xander found himself back in the magic shop, staring right into the bluest eyes he had ever seen.

Chapter Four

Something was up with the whelp. Spike was sitting on the stairs that led to the balcony of the magic shop when he had sensed the boy approach the store. As soon as Xander walked in Spike could feel whatever drew demons to the boy had grown stronger. As Xander threw himself into a chair opposite the blond witch Spike had time to stare with out being noticed. He thought Xander looked more exhausted then usual.

The strange part was when Xander had momentarily disappeared and no one seemed to notice. Well sure it was just for one moment, not even a second but Xander had simply flickered out and back. Spike was sure it was not just his eyes as the pull of the boy and his smell also disappeared.

Then Xan was back and staring directly into his eyes. It was Xander; Spike was sure of that. He would know that smell anywhere but now he was different. Spike could see the changes right away. Maybe because he was a vamp or maybe because he was the only one paying attention. The physical changes were stunning. Xander's chocolate eyes, that Spike so loved to stare into, were lighter now, almost yellow and slightly reflective like there was a mirror behind them. They were filled with an emotion Spike had never seen in them before. He considered himself a closet connoisseur of Xander expressions. He knew most all of them, but not this one.

Xander's entire body seemed to have gained bulk, like he had gained an entire new layer of muscle. He just seemed…broader. He was standing up, straight up. Xander rarely did that. In fact, it was almost as if he were standing at attention allowing Spike to inspect him. Xander preferred to slouch especially if he felt someone staring.

All in all Spike had to admit whatever had been done to his boy looked good on him. In fact, his jeans where growing tighter. He pulled his duster closer around himself to hide his reaction. When he heard Xander shuffle his feet he glanced back to Xander's face. He knew that look; it was nervousness and mild confusion. Then Xander did something that almost made him gasp out loud. Xander was sniffing the air; he leaned in towards Spike just a little and sniffed again. Xander cocked his head to the side as if trying to place the smell. Spike saw the boy's eyes dilate and a grin slowly stretch across his face as he recognized the scent of Spike's arousal. Then a smell hit Spike in the face, a wall of pure lust so thick he felt that he might choke from it.

'What the fuck has been done to him?' Spike thought. Xander wanted him and was letting him know it. Well it wasn't like Spike hadn't known that the boy wanted him before, but never had he shown it. Always before Xander would start babbling and leave the room quickly.

Spike made a small move toward Xander, but as he stood he gained the attention of the red headed witch.

“Spike leave Xander alone. Buffy needs to spar with him.”

Neither man jumped, but the spell had definitely been broken. Xander ran a hand through his hair, a gesture that Spike was very familiar with. He loved watching Xander do that, it mussed up his hair so nicely.

This time his attention was drawn to the young man's wrists. These were new. They hadn't been there a second ago. Xander caught him staring so he looked away. The sound of Xander's voice startled him.

“Buffy,” Xander called out, “You're going to have to fight with the G-man. I've got some stuff to take care of.”

Out of the corner of his eye Spike could see Giles shudder at the thought of sparring with his slayer, but sigh in resignation.

Xander was staring at him. Spike was shaken. What the hell was wrong with him? He was in love with Buffy right? Right?

Xander cocked one eyebrow up at him and inclined his head towards the door.

'Nope, it ends here. Don't know what he's playin' at but...'

“Right, well. I think I'll walk the whelp home. He seems to attract trouble. I should find a nice spot of violence tonight after all.”

'Oh great now I'm babbling. And what happened to all that resolve?'

'Shit…Fuck…'

But before they could make it to the door, Willow bounced over between them.

“Spike, if you want to fight something why don't you go spar with Buffy.” She said as she pushed him towards the back room away from Xander.

Spike stopped and thought about it. Of course, what the hell had he been thinking? He might not be able to hit her but she would have her hands all over him. Yeah that sounded good. The whelp was fun to bait but he couldn't compare to Buffy.

As he turned away from Willow he saw a strange look cross Xander's face but just as quickly as it appeared it was gone.

Spike was confused. He had wanted to go with Xander, but why? 'Oh well doesn't matter. I've got me a Slayer waiting.'

“Sorry whelp another time.” He threw over his shoulder as he swaggered away.

Xander left the shop quickly, his mind in shock. How could he have forgotten? Spike was still gah-gah over the Buffster. It was the pheromones that did it. He knew that Spike wanted him but he was in love with Buffy.

Willow trying to be all protective of him felt good. He had missed that. He missed his friendship with her. Now that she was in college and had Tara their friendship had drifted to mostly Scooby stuff. Yeah, ok. Anya had a lot to do with that. Maybe now that Anya was gone he would have more time for friends.

He looked down at his still tingling wrist. On the other hand, maybe not.

Chapter Five

Xander was lost deep in thought. Not paying attention to the street around him. Anyone walking down a Sunnydale street at night knew better, as a Slayerette it should've been an inherent quality. Distraction led to death, or un-death, as it were.

Xander's only excuse for not seeing the threat that was surrounding him was that he was distracted by thoughts of piercing blue eyes. While he might not have been paying active attention his new instincts were very aware. He knew as soon as the pack of vampires stepped onto the sidewalk behind him.

In the blink of an eye they had fanned out around him. He moved to pull the stake out of his pocket before remembering that he had put it down on the table back at the magic shop. Xander quickly assessed the situation.

Four Vamps, minions. Stupid. Probably run if their food put up a fight.

As the first vamp closed in from behind, Xander spun around and cleanly ripped its head off. Before the dust could fall he had grabbed the second vampire by the throat. This one had more warning and began to struggle.

Xander ground out between clenched teeth, “Run” and the other two did. The struggling vampire's attempt was futile. He knew it the second before Xander twisted and pulled his head. It took another second for Xander to finish ripping his head off but by then the vampire was already dead.

Xander stepped back as the dust settled around him. 'Woo-hoo! Go soldier!'

Since the joining, he no longer had separate memories from the soldier and the hyena. However, apparently he did have their instincts. Merged with his own. This was the first fight in years where there was no inner conflict, just a need for action and a decisive plan.

The rest of the walk home was uneventful but he was still jazzed from the fight. He couldn't veg out in front of the TV. With no power, so he called Cordy in LA. Since she had become vision-girl they both made an effort to put their differences behind them and discovered that when they could talk to no one else in their lives they could talk to each other.

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“Spike, get the hell off me.” Buffy gritted her teeth again.

Spike had managed to grab her on his way down and reversed their positions so that he was lying on top of her. Pressed into her from hip to shoulder, and nuzzling her neck.

“No, m'comfy.” He said as he wiggled a little more then settled in.

Buffy relaxed completely. 'Not going to give him the pleasure of a struggle. At least he isn't hard…Wait why doesn't he have a hard-on?' She began what she hoped felt like a struggle, bucking her hips against him. 'Oh, yeah a little reaction. I've still got it.' Of course she couldn't let him know that she wanted that reaction.

“Spike,” she said warningly “get off me.”

Spike raised his head. He had been envisioning warm brown eyes, and to see those cold blue orbs gazing up at him was like a cold shower. He quickly lost his erection. He could tell by the narrowing of her eyes that she noticed. What the hell was wrong with him? Unquestioningly he loved Buffy, loved everything about her. Her smell, he inhaled deeply. Her touch, he wiggled his ass. Her beauty, her strength, he could go on. What the hell was missing then? Why was he getting excited if he thought about soft brown eyes, wavy brown hair, and lean hard muscles. 'Oh yeah!' He couldn't help the involuntary shudder that ran through him when she bucked up against his denim clad erection. His eyes closed sinking himself into the fantasy.

“Spike that is it.” Buffy rolled them over with on great heave; then stood quickly. Her voice screeched along his nerves. God! His demon hated her. He had to fight to keep his game face from showing. Why the hell hadn't he killed her yet? Oh yeah…chip. And well…the whole love thing.

His growl turned into a groan when she put one small foot in the middle of his stomach and stepped on him, as she headed to the door. His game face did come out when he heard her words.

“Yep. Still beneath me.”

“Slayer, you really are a bitch.”

“Yeah, well isn't that why you love me? I mean come on…What's up with that? I thought you had a thing for Xander and then suddenly you’re all over me.”

“Xander! That moron. What makes you think I've got a thing for him?” He sat up.

Buffy walked back over and sat beside him.

“Well, it could be the way you're over protective of him in a fight. It could be the way you growl at Anya all the time. But what it is…is the way you look at him.” Buffy took a deep breath and went on. “Look. I don't know why you have a thing for me. Maybe it is left over from Willow's spell. I don't know, but Xan…I know he thinks the rest of us ignore and underestimate him. It's because we don't want him to get hurt. He's a great guy. If you have feelings for him don't hide behind this crazy attraction for me. It will never work out between us. When Xander looks at you sometimes…” She got to her feet. “I've said too much, just get over me. Move on.” Buffy walked out of the danger room without looking back to see the stunned expression on Spike's face.

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Xander hung up the phone. Well at least she hadn't laughed at him too much. Of course he hadn't told her about Spike. He hadn't told her about his suspicions about Angel either. He figured if Angel was called it was his decision to tell people, but until then Xander would keep his mouth shut.

Xander laid back on the bed, with no electricity it was unusually quiet in his apartment. As he drifted in and out of sleep he thought about his day.

Anya had left him. Now that he was chosen, not to mention this confusing mess with Spike, he was glad she was gone.

Something was up with Willow. Now that he had been called…changed…now that he was 'other'…'Hmm, have to think about that.' He could feel her power. She radiated it, raw almost wild power. In the magic shop he had felt her using it. At the time he hadn't known what it was he was sensing. Right before she had stepped between him and Spike her power had flared up. Only for an instant but it had.

He would have to watch the people around him now. He hadn't seen Buffy and hadn't paid attention to Giles but Tara radiated as much as Willow only hers seemed calmer, more in control.

He couldn't sleep. His mind kept flashing back to Spike and the smell of his arousal. Why had he never known before now that Spike wanted him? Maybe it was that he tried his best to not let Spike know about his own feelings.

'Arrgh, go to sleep Xan.' His hand strayed down to his hardened length. 'Ok just take care of this first.' He shimmed out of his sweat pants and lay back again.

Xander ran his right hand down his chest lightly, circled his nipple then pinched and twisted it savagely. Pre-cum spurted onto his belly as he groaned out his pleasure. His left hand wandered down to the base of his shaft and started fondling the soft sac beneath. Rubbing and massaging the small stretch of skin behind it. Back and forth, never daring to touch the hole below. Not quite sure he was ready for that.

Xander ran his fingers through his pre-cum then grasped his erection pumping and gripping rhythmically. His thumb rubbed the head and his nail scratch the slit just enough to send delicious shivers down his spine. He imagined it was Spike holding him and caressing him as he speed up. His balls started tightening and he knew he was close. He pumped harder, breaking a sweat. He groaned and thought of Spike again. Dancing blue eyes sparkled up at him. He could practically smell the blond man's arousal. When he came he screamed out Spike's name.

It was one of the most intense orgasms he had ever had. Only the second time he had masturbated while thinking of the blond vampire. With a sigh he headed for the shower. A cold shower because 'Hello, no electricity!'

Chapter Six

Xander took the next day off work. He stayed in bed late thinking about what the messenger had said. If this being chosen thing really had made him smarter maybe he should go to college. Contrary to popular opinion he had wanted to go. He just didn't have the money. His parents thought he was getting uppity when he had mentioned it to them.

Now because of Anya, he could afford to go. He thought it was a little ironic that he was contemplating quitting his job the day after she had left him. Funny how yesterday he wouldn't even think about it. Yesterday his job had been too important to him. A way to show that he was more than his father. Yesterday a lot of things had been different. Yesterday he had been different.

It was several hours and several phone calls later when Xander finally let himself really think about last night. Think about what he had seen in Spike's eyes, before Willow had interrupted them. Why had she been using her power in the shop? Did she expect to have to separate him and Spike? What was it about that use of power that bothered him? Well, he'd think about that later. Right now he had a job to quit and some college paper work to fill out.

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Buffy was leaving the administrators office after filling out paper work for next semester. It didn't start for another month but she wanted to make sure the classes she wanted weren't all full. She nodded to classmates absently as she thought about all of the changes that had happened since she had done this last. Her mother had died. She had fought a hell-god and won. After Glory died her relationship with Dawn had changed. Dawn felt more like a sister now as opposed to an object she had to protect. Buffy was happy they had worked out their differences if only she could do the same with the rest of the Scooby gang.

Willow had gone through a drastic change when Tara had been kidnapped. They had been drifting apart before but now it was like Willow was withdrawing from them. She was obsessed with magic and Tara.

Buffy was so lost in thought, that she was not paying attention to where she was walking until she bumped into a very hard very muscular male body.

“Oh, excuse me, I'm so sorry.” She apologized before she really looked up.

“Xander, what are you doing here?” She exclaimed when she finally glanced up.

He laughed. “Buff, you ok? You looked pretty deep in thought there. And what I'm doing here is the normal. You know. Getting classes, paying for classes. College guy stuff.” His grin started looking a bit strained. He really wanted this to be a surprise. Well she did look surprised.

Buffy was stunned. Xander in college.

“Wow Xan, that's great. But I thought Willow said you didn't get accepted.”

He looked confused for a moment.

“Um…No. I got in I just couldn't afford it before.”

“And you can now?” She asked, eyebrows raised almost to her hair line.

“Well, yeah. You know Anya really was good with money.” Xander grinned a little wider.

“Yeah, she does like her money. So what does she think about you becoming college guy? Wait. What do you mean was?”

Xander looked a little lost for a minute then he took a deep breath.

“Anya left me yesterday, because she said I didn't appreciate her.” As he spoke he ran his fingers through his hair and thought about getting a hair cut.

“Oh Xander. I'm so sorry. Why didn't you say anything last night?” 'So that's why he left early last night' she thought. 'Poor Xander. But now maybe I could convince a certain blond to…' Her eyes caught sight of Xander's new accessories. Her Slayer senses responded to them in a low level way. 'Huh, that's weird.'

Xander was still talking but she couldn't draw her eyes away from his wrists. Where had she seen those before? They looked so familiar.

“Xander,” she interrupted as she made a grab for his wrist. “Where did you get these? They're covered in magic?”

He trailed off; glad he didn't have to explain about Anya but at a loss to explain his new destiny. It was Buffy after all and if he couldn't trust the Slayer, who could he trust.

Xander was lost in thought for a few minutes in an internal debate. The debate in and of itself was nothing new. Over the last few years he had debated with himself quite often. What was new was the dialogue was no longer confusing. There was only one voice in his head now. The debate was not about whether he should trust Buffy, but rather should he tell her now or wait until after he had decided what he was going to do about Spike. Could he tell just half of what he knew? He was admittedly a terrible liar. Buffy would be able to tell and would eventually be able to get it out of him. On the other hand sparring with Buffy would probably help his fighting technique and Giles could probably help him figure out how to use the power in the Shackles.

More than that though Xander really wanted to keep this to himself just for a little while. The debate didn't last long. He knew what he wanted.

“They um…they were a gift from Anya. She didn't want me to be unprotected. They are um…supposed to help me fight.” Xander stuttered over the lies but held firm on his explanation.

“Ok Are you sure you can trust them?” Buffy looked sceptical. And really could he blame her? “I mean vengeance demon and all that.” She continued.

Xander started walking down the hall hoping to end the conversation soon. “Oh, no. She gave them to me before. I just haven't worn them until now. So any way…I have to be here,” he showed her his paper work, “tomorrow. You want to show me where that is.”

“Changing the subject again Xander?” She asked.

He smiled down at her, without slowing his pace. “I just don't want to talk about Anya. I am too excited about college.”

He breathed a quiet sigh of relief when she let him change the subject.

The rest of the day went by in a pleasant haze for Xander. It had been a while since he had hung out with Buffy when there was no big apocalyptic event on the horizon. As a matter of fact he didn't think they had ever hung out together just the two of them. Willow had always been there. At first because of her crush on him, she didn't want him getting too close to Buffy. After that it was just a habit. Go to see Buffy, call for Willow first. 'That's weird, wonder why I never noticed that before.'

Too soon Buffy decided to call it a day and walked him to his car. He was momentarily stunned by the change in topic.

“So, Xander. What do you think about this whole Spike thing?” She asked him, trying not to sound too interested in the answer.

“Think about S-spike,” he stuttered. “I-I don't think about Spike. Why would I think about Spike?” Damn it! He knew he was blushing.

She was grinning from ear to ear. Xander really started to panic then.

“Un-huh. You don't think about Spike.”

“What? I don't. Really.”

“Xander if you don't think about Spike then why are you blushing?”

He could tell she was not going to give this up. He took a deep breath, held it for a few seconds then exhaled loudly.

“Buffy, I'm not gay.” He knew he sounded like a whiny child but couldn't help it.

“I didn't say you were. But if you stomp your foot along with that pout, I might believe you.” She paused to take in his stricken look. “Xander, I didn't say you were gay. I just asked what you thought about him. You are the one who jumped from there to Larry-land.”

Xander gaped.

She started laughing so hard at the expression on his face she nearly doubled over. She reached out and placed her hand on his arm while trying to speak but a surge of power threw her hand knocked her back. She landed with a thud on the ground. Laughter effectively cut off.

Buffy became very still as she studied her friend. Her eyes took in the changes in him. How he stood straighter, looked slightly larger. He shifted under her intense scrutiny. She stood slowly. When she spoke again she sounded like she was trying not to spook him.

“Xander, I think you need to explain what just happened.”

Xander was hurt, his best friend was laughing at him. His whole world narrowed into just her face. He couldn't breath; black spots started forming in his vision. She was laughing at him. The slayer was laughing. What the hell? Didn't she know who he was? His hurt became anger. He was the White Knight. How dare she laugh at him? When she reached out and touched his left wrist the Shield reacted. He had no control over its reaction, but his anger did drain away. Now she was demanding answers. He didn't think she would be put off this time.

Buffy thought he was going to cry. Xander's eyes grew wide. She could tell what had happened had stunned him as much as her, but she could also tell he knew something of what had happened.

“Xander, you know you can trust me. Whatever it is.”

Xander released a shaky breath.

“Look, Buffy. It's nothing bad. I promise and I wanted to tell you. I did but…” He took a steadying breath. “Can we go back to my place to talk about this?”

She knew he was uncomfortable so she readily agreed.

Chapter Seven

Xander had managed to work himself into a nervous wreck by the time they finally reached his apartment. Buffy hadn't said a word, she didn't have to. Her expression said it all. Shock, alarm, disbelief and just a little bit of anger. He went straight for the kitchen and grabbed a soda. Knowing he would need something to do with his hands and drinking always broke up the Xander-babble.

Buffy sat on the edge of the sofa. She looked ready to jump up and do battle. “OK, so here I am. Start talking.” She said, as if she expected it to be a trap of some kind.

He sat down at the other end of the long curved sofa with a sigh. “Buffy don't be like that.” Maybe it was the strength of the soldier or the hyena but he had a new found belief in himself. Whatever it was allowed him to answer her when she asked.

“Like what Xander?”

“Like that,” he waved his hand toward her. “Like you are expecting to have to jump up and stake me at any given second.” He growled.

“So explain it to me. Cause I'm not really understanding it here. What the hell are those things on your wrists?”

“They are called the Shackles of Destiny. They are my weapons in the coming battles.”

Buffy leaned forward, caught by the sound and cadence of his voice, she found herself almost seeing the scene take place in her head. Did his voice have new power or was it the telling of the Choosing that held the power? Whatever it was held her enraptured until the tale was told. She could feel all of his excitement, fear and confusion as he told her of it. As soon as the story ended she felt bereft. Left alone in her mind with only her own thoughts and emotions.

“Wow, Xander that's…” She relaxed back into the sofa. Only then realizing how tense she had been.

Xander relaxed, she wasn't freaking out. He had expected her to freak. He was startled out of his thoughts by her bubbling laughter.

“So, you and Spike! Wow! I mean that's great! The Big Bad mated to The Warrior for the Light!” She broke into more giggles.

He started snickering and before long they were both holding their sides.

“Just wait until I tell Angel.” Buffy gasped out.

Startled Xander sat straight up amusement gone from his face. “No. Buffy. No. You can't tell anyone. Not yet.”

“Xander what are you talking about? This is great news. You finally have your thing. And we have The Warrior of the Light to guard the Hellmouth. Why wouldn't you want the others to know?”

“Well for one thing, I don't know how I feel about the whole Spike thing. I mean come on Buffy. It's Spike. You know…evil, un-dead. He has tried to kill all of us. More than once. Besides does it really matter how I feel about him?” Xander was up and pacing the floor.

“I don't think it does. It won't change the fact that the 'Hello Slayer Obsession' is in full swing.” Xander stopped pacing. He wished that he smoked so at least he would have something to do with his hands, his soda long gone. He stuffed his hands in his pockets then gestured with his elbows.

“You are all he talks about. You are all he thinks about.” Buffy hated the sound of near defeat in his voice.

“You know, I've been thinking about that myself. You want to know what I think it is?” She could feel the blood pumping through her skull. For some reason every time she tried to think about a reason for Spikes obsession with her, her head started pounding. It just didn't make sense.

Xander sat back down on the sofa. “Please, do tell. Your perfume? The fact that your always beating him up? Don't tell me. Let me guess. He's a masochist. Right.” Sarcasm dripping from his voice.

Buffy rolled her eyes. “Well yeah that too. Duh! He is a Vampire you know!” She grinned slightly. “No seriously Xan. I think it is left over from Willows spell. You remember. You became a demon magnet and I was supposed to marry Spike.”

She was warming to the subject despite her killer headache. Finally someone to talk to about her worry without hurting Willows feelings.

She rubbed at her temples and asked for an aspirin. “I've been thinking about asking Giles to do a general undo all magic kind of spell on Spike.” She continued after she had a few of the pills and half a can of soda. “You know not tell Wills cause I wouldn't want her to feel bad or anything.”

Xander was stunned. Why hadn't he thought of that? He remembered the small surges of power he had felt around Willow last night. At the time it hadn't seemed important. Everyone who used magic had a different 'feel' to their power. Xander could tell the difference between Giles, Tara and Willow now. Even Buffy and Spike left traces of power on the things they touched.

Could it be that she didn't know some of her power was being siphoned off with old spells.

“That must be it Buffy. I mean her magic is all over him. Almost as much as Tara, but she keeps doing those spells to keep humans from noticing him. I'll bet she doesn't even realize what is going on!”

She smiled at the excitement she heard in his voice. “Whoa there sailor. Hold on don't get too excited. We still have to talk to Giles.” She took a deep breath.

“Speaking of which. I really do think you should at least tell him about this, being chosen thing. Giles has loads of experience with training chosen ones!” She smiled at him, glad he hadn't immediately refused to even think about it.

“I may not be a good student but he is a good teacher. And Xander,” her voice grew serious, “you really do need to learn how to control those things.” She gestured towards his wrists.

“I know.” He sighed. “OK, but for now just Giles. OK?”

“OK. Xan for now. I still don't understand why I can't tell Angel!” She grinned impishly.

Xander blushed as he sputtered. “And we are NOT telling Giles about the Spike thing. Not until I know that he likes me for me. Not just because of the Destiny crap.” He was trying for firm but sounded more defensive.

Buffy turned back to him as she opened the door to leave.

“Hey he is your mate not mine. If you want to let him run around behind your back…” She ducked out the door laughing as Xander threw a pillow at her head.

Xander sighed as he stared out the window watching Buffy walk away. The last rays of the fading sunlight highlighted her blond hair. He couldn't help but think of another bottle blond, that would probably now just be waking up. He crossed his arms in front of himself in a comforting hug, he had learned long ago it would be the only comforting hug he would get, as he slowly banged his head into the glass window and whispered to himself.

“Spike what are we going to do? How am I supposed to fix this?” Well at least we have a plan now. First things first Xander my man. Talk to Giles. Xander stretched as he yawned deeply. OK First sleep, then talk to Giles! He chuckled to himself as he headed back to his lonely bedroom.

Chapter Eight

Tara woke with a gasp. A half remembered nightmare making her blood run cold. She rubbed her arms to warm the goose pimpled flesh. Her own hug giving her some small amount of comfort. What had the dream been about? She only knew it left her uneasy in her own skin. A glance at the woman next to her assured her that her lover was still asleep.

As quietly as she could she slipped out of bed and padded over to the altar in the corner. After meditating for a few minutes she lit the god and goddess candles. Unlike most Wiccans she had met recently she honoured both equally. Recognizing the need for balance between the male and female aspects of the power she worshipped.

She sat sobbing silently as she realized that the ritual that once had given her comfort and peace all her life was now no comfort at all. In fact sitting here staring into the dancing flames of the altar candles she grew more restless more unsure of life and her place in it. Why was she here? She glanced back at the bed. Why was she with this woman? A woman so addicted to power she lied to her childhood friends. Lied to everyone. She actually thought she had Tara under her control. Tara's anger began to surface. Actually thought to use her power against her.

Tara had grown up with her power, had more power and control than the redhead could conceive of. Just because she didn't flaunt it, didn't lust for more, was no sign she was weak. That assumption of her character was sheer arrogance. Her eyes glowed softly in the candle lit room. Running through a riot of colors. She felt her power surge through her. She called it to her; let it run wild for a moment. Just long enough that it took all of her control to rein it back in. Slowly she brought her hand up in front of her face.

Tara heard her mother's voice as she began the exercise.

“Start slowly.” The gentle voice said. “Start with your finger tips. Burn off just the top layer, so the skin underneath will not be marked. Control child. Always remember. Control.”

An hour later, a fine sheet of sweat covered her entire body. Her hair was damp with it she could feel it roll down her belly from under her breasts. Feel it tickle her inner thighs where it had gathered before continuing its journey downward.

Calm at last the exercise had expended most of her energy and provided the nightly side effect of never needing a facial! Her skin always looked unblemished and healthy. She turned back to the altar and immersed herself back into her meditation. Deep cleansing breath. Holding and releasing. In and out. Over and over, until at last she found her center. Tara travelled down within herself along the pathways of memories and power. Through childhood wishes and adult desires until she felt the popping sensation that she had come to recognize as the center of her self. She opened her eyes and looked around. Curious, as always, would she be here for her? Her mother a had visited often in the last couple of years. What once was a rare occurrence was now happening with frightening regularity. The dark grey void grew lighter a kaleidoscope of colors danced around her filling her mind with their laughter and love. They moved away swirling faster and faster. Then with no warning stopping suddenly forming a young woman.

“Mother.” Tara whispered. Awed at the sight of her mother. No matter how many times she witnessed this display it always sent a thrill through her.

“Child.”

Always the same. Never 'Tara' or 'sweetheart'. None of the other endearments most children heard. Only that.

“Child, It is time. The first has been chosen. It has begun.”

Dread filled Tara as nothing had before she knew now what the nightmare had been about.

“What must I do?” Tara's voice shook with emotion. Some fear, some anticipation. She had been waiting for this all her life.

“Some one will come for you. A Seer. Once human. but human no longer. Her humanity sacrificed for the greater good.”

“But what of my life here? Willow…”

“Child,” her mothers voice was harsh. “Do not speak to me of 'but this' or 'but that' . I speak of Destiny. Child,” her voice softened. “Child your life is no longer your own. If you want to help your Warrior you must go with the Seer. I must go now. Remember the Seer.” Her voice faded as her image did. Suddenly Tara was back in her room sobbing quietly.

Chapter Nine

Buffy sat on the old sofa in the Danger room, waiting for Xander to answer his cell phone. Except for Giles she was alone at the Magic Box. Hopefully she could get Xander there before the others showed up. It had been several days since Xander had told Buffy his secret and they had yet to be able to get the older man alone.

“Hello, I lowered my cholesterol!” Xander answered with a laugh. She was momentarily speechless, and then laughed what would she have done all these years without Xander?

“Hey Xan. It's me. That's cute by the way. Too much time on your hands?”

“Hey Buff. Yep, way too much time. But, it's a good thing! Oh hey Buffy?”

“Yeah?”

“Can you hear me now?!”

“Oh Xander. Get over here before I have to come hunt you down!” She laughed.

“All right. All right. I'm on my way.”

She heard him disconnect and smiled to herself. One… Two… Her Phone rang.

“Magic shop.” She hung up her phone shaking her head. She took a deep breath and called out to Giles. She needed to prepare him for the conversation ahead. It was going to be a long night, she could tell already.

“Giles could I talk to you for a minute.”

“Of course, Buffy.” He answered, not looking up from his work.

“Um, back here might be better. You know where you could sit back…relax.”

He finally looked up at her serious tone.

“Is it that bad?” He asked. He took off his glasses and pinched the bridge of his nose. He had known it was too good to last. He should be used to it by now. Here on the Hellmouth it was several days of boredom followed by near apocalypse, near death, usually much destruction, and then more boredom. Giles shuffled his papers into an almost neat stack then stood. His back popped as he tried to stretch out his muscles. 'Lord I'm getting too old for this. Maybe I should just retire. It's not like I am good for much as Buffy's Watcher anymore.' He sat down on the old sofa and looked up at his young charge. She had grown into a beautiful young woman who sometimes looked at him as if he hung the moon. That was why he stayed. It had very little to do with wanting to save the world anymore.

“Ok. I'm ready. What has happened?” He tried to brace himself. He expected the worst. Buffy's mind raced. How could she prepare him without telling?

“Ok, it's like this. In a few minutes Xander is going to be here. You should prepare yourself to be shocked and amazed.”

“Buffy, you sound like a barker at the circus. Can't you tell me anything more?”

“Um, well Ok. It's a good thing!” She paused. “Weird,” heartbeat “but good. Something happened to him and he needs you to help him. But like I said it's a good weird.”

She nearly cheered when the doorbell rang in the front room.

“Hey Buffster, G-Man. Where are you? Oh hello.”

Xander walked into the back room. “Have no fear. The Xan-man is here.” He looked back and forth between Giles and Buffy. His smiled faltered.

“You told him.”

“No, no.” She rushed to assure him. “Just…prepared him a little that's all.”

Giles had had enough and spoke up.

“Well if someone does not tell me soon, I'm going to leave. Xander Buffy told me that something good weird happened to you and that now you need my help. That's it. That is all she said. Now sit down the both of you and explain.”

And just like obedient school children minding their favorite teacher, they sat! They gave each other a look then started giggling. Giles saw the look and rolled his eyes. He looked down at them and couldn't quite hide the affection in his eyes. He sighed deeply. It was a good thing he loved them because they sorely tried his patience.

“Children, enough. Xander speak.” He tried to sound stern but couldn't hide the quick smile when Xander replied with “Arf Arf” Buffy sobered up first. She pinched Xander's arm lightly.

“Xan, it's time to quit stalling. The others will be here soon.” The thought of having to face Spike before he talked to Giles sobered his good mood almost at once. He sighed and glanced at his friend. He was glad for the alone time they had had the last few days. He was glad he finally realized that his high school crush had been just that. A crush, not love. She was a great friend but too high maintenance, he wouldn't want her for a mate. A mate. Every now and then it hit him. How natural Hyena speak felt now. How easily it slipped out. The thought of his mate brought him to the subject at hand. He looked up at Giles, took a deep breath and began.

Chapter Ten

Xander bit his lip. How was he supposed to explain this to Giles and make the man take him seriously? He took a deep breath and tried to find his center. 'I am smart. I am strong.' He opened his eyes and found Buffy and Giles still staring at him.

“Ok but I have to do this my way. Buffy you go mind the front of the store. Make sure we aren't interrupted.” The others where stunned by the change in his tone and manner.

Buffy stood and walked to the door. She turned back when she was almost there. “Xan go easy on him. He's an old guy!” She ran the last few feet out the door laughing. She was gone before either of them could reply.

Xander chuckled, he suddenly felt very old or at least a lot older.

“Ok, Giles but no interruptions.” Xander stood. He thought better on his feet.

“First I have to thank you for never saying anything to the others about me remembering the hyena. But I'm afraid that it wasn't just that I remembered the hyena, the hyena never actually left. She was always there sorta just below the surface. And after you got rid of that statue, you know that Halloween we were all possessed well I never forgot the soldier either. He has always been with me. I mean strong. Not fading like the all the others said they felt.” Xander took a deep breath. “Kay, see you needed to know this because, now, both the hyena and solider are gone. We've been…merged.”

Xander held up a hand when Giles opened his mouth to speak. “Please.” When Giles nodded his assent, Xander continued. “A few days ago, the day Anya left actually, I was Chosen.”

“Chosen for what?” Giles interrupted. Xander held up his hand.

“Please Giles. Questions later. Let me get this out first.” He cleared his throat. “The…I don't know what you would call them…The Primal Power of the Light. Part of the trio that created the Powers that Be. This Power of Light chose me to be the first of their Warriors.” He flashed his new wrist accessories at Giles. “These are my weapons. I need to learn to use them. I almost hurt Buffy the other day because I don't have any control over them yet. That is where you come in. I was hoping that you might, could help me learn some control or something.”

“Of course Xander. Of course I'll help you all that I can!” Giles beamed a grin at his almost son. Pride evident on his face. His heart-son was a Warrior of the Light! Xander’s next words dimmed his excitement only a little.

“There is more. Some of it Buffy knows some of it she doesn't. And I don't want you to tell her until we know for sure. So do you want the good or the bad first? Or should I say the bad new and the not quite as bad news!” Xander asked with a small smile. Clearly he didn't want to tell Giles either option.

“Hmm the bad I think,” Giles said softly, still smiling.

Without thinking about what he could be doing to his childhood friend Xander told Giles of his suspicions about Willow. “I think Willow has been doing spells on us without our consent. Spike especially. And I mean above and beyond the pale. I really hate to suspect her of doing this but I think she is keeping Spike in love with Buffy.”

To say that Giles was stunned would be an understatement. Then he thought about what Xander had said. If Xander who a few days ago would have given his life for Willow really thought this then Giles figured that he owed it to Xander to at least look into it. That is not even considering the fact that it was not just goofy Xander that was bringing this charge of misused magic but that he could feel the Warrior speaking as well. 'Oh dear, he is right this could be very bad.'

“Ok. Now tell me some good news.” Giles said without commenting on the bad.

Xander blushed and began pacing again. He took a deep breath. “Well you see when a Warrior is chosen it is for eternity. As in, not just for life but forever. I can't die. Not until the final battle. And that could be in a year or a millennia, no matter what kind of injury I get I will heal from it. That could be lonely.” Xander added the last bit when he saw Giles' smile widen. It fell abruptly when he was done.

“You would not have brought that up unless you had thought of something.” Giles understood a little of how Xander thought. And he was right Xander would not have wanted his friends to think of any thing bad unless he had the means to make it ok again.

Xander chewed his lip, sighed deeply and sank onto the couch next to his father figure.

“Xander are you blushing? I didn't think that was possible after so much time with Anya!” Giles chuckled.

“Well see it's like this. Um…I have a mate. Someone who will live as long as I do. Who will also have powers.” Xander ducked his head when Giles gave him a funny look.

“Xander, what aren't you telling me. Someone.” Giles paused. “Is it another man, and you’re too embarrassed to say?” Giles asked kindly.

“Well, umm it's kinda… yeah. It's kinda Spike.” Xander mumbled unable to look Giles in the eye.

Giles sat silent for a minute, and then sighed. “Well then. I guess that answers the questions I had about why you think Willow is putting spells on him. I can't believe it. Spike is mated to a Warrior of the Light.” Giles turned and put his hand under Xander’s jaw, forcing him to look up. “How are you handling this Xander?”

Xander sat beside the older man telling him about being chosen, about Spike and his obsession with the vampire. How he had always felt connected to the older man. He bared his soul. Telling Giles things he had no intention of saying.

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They talked for hours undisturbed until they heard a faint conversation from the alley behind the magic shop. Both men pressed their ears to the door and listened. They were intrigued by the conversation and didn't want to risk scaring off the two voices.

“With Glorificus gone this town is ripe for a new Master. Someone needs to get the remaining demons together. And I think you are just the one for the job.” Voice one said.

“People have tried to gain control of the Hellmouth before but the Slayer…” Voice two was interrupted.

“Idiots all of them. They all wanted to open the gateway. Who in their right minds wants that? Hell on earth. Bah! You don't have to open the thing to control the it.” Voice one said in disgust.

Giles motioned for Xander to back off. Away from the door. He slowly opened the door, but the scraping of a two by four someone had leaned against the other side of the door alerted the two would-be conspirators. Giles only managed a glance at the retreating figures.

“Damn, we need to tell the others. Any play to gain a hold on the Hellmouth could be dangerous. And you, Xander might want to stay out of the fight. Just until we can understand more of what those Shackles of yours can do. After what happened with Buffy…”

“No way Giles. I didn't stay out of the fight when I had no power. I'm sure not going to now that I do.” Xander growled.

Giles sighed and rubbed the bridge of his nose, lifting his glasses slightly. “Yes well just try to stay calm at least. Please Xander this is as much for your own sake as it is ours. And about Spike…I really don’t know what to say. Except you are right, I believe you should just wait and see how things turn out. I will do the two spells we talked about immediately though.”

Xander hugged the only man he felt comfortable hugging since he was turned seven years old. Silently thanking all the Powers of Light that they had sent him someone to take the place of that bastard of a real father. They straightened awkwardly, turning back to enter the main part of the shop. Xander stopped. Feeling a strange quiver of fear and pain he shook his Head and his whole body followed the movement. As suddenly as it came it was gone. He put it out of his mind, it had happened before in the last few months so was not a big deal. He continued into the other room, full of friends and family.

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Xander sat quietly at the table glancing down at the book he was supposed to be reading. His mind wondered to the strange sensation he had felt right before entering the room. He tried to block out all the sound from the room. Buffy was twirling her hair and Willow making notes but Tara was the hardest, her magic was faintly humming in the air. He had noticed that it seemed she was no longer trying to hide her power. Almost as if she was letting it build up for some reason. Finally he was able to concentrate entirely on himself.

He was never one to meditate but as he concentrated he let the world fall away and realized what Willow had always said about it was true. When you strip away the 'you' that everyone else sees and there is only the 'you' that you face in the dark at night, then you are meditating. Then there is only You and you must face that, good or bad. Xander inhaled deeply and opened his 'eyes'. Suddenly he was back in the all too familiar Temple of the Chosen.

Chapter Eleven

Xander took a deep breath. Ok, he could deal. The chamber looked the same as it did before. The sound of small bells and laughter echoed around the marble tome.

“Alexander, I knew you would find your way back.”

“Find my way back? No not really. I don't know how I got here.” Xander responded still a little dazed.

Xander stared at the sight before him. The messenger glided around the room a soft smile on her face. Her soft golden hair shimmered in the torch light. She glanced at him out of the corner of her eyes.

“You brought yourself here. You were meditating. Yes?” Her voice was soft.

She was starting to get on his nerves. “No, actually I was trying to concentrate on a feeling. Not block everything out.” He said through clenched teeth.

“Alexander, be at ease.” She gave a careless wave of her hand and an ornate marble table and two rather comfortable looking chairs appeared. The Messenger sat at the table then gestured to him to the other chair.

“Sit and listen.” The fact that it was more of a plea than a demand made Xander sit when he would rather have been stubborn and stood.

“Alexander, the Light is not allowed to directly interfere with your training nor may it help you in your battles. The Powers That Be work not for the Light nor for the others Powers. They work only to keep balance until the time of Reckoning. For that reason alone am I here. There must be balance. The forces of Dark are not playing by the Rules and have interfered with your relationship with your mate. The feeling that you were concentrating on came from your mate. You cannot let that happen You must claim your mate.” She stressed the last point.

Xander sat back with a deep sigh. “Its only been a few days. I just need more time.”

The Messengers voice put him in the trance again. It was like he heard and understood all of the many different meanings for all that she said. Xander could do nothing else but listen.

“Time means less than nothing here, Alexander. You must make your Claim. The Dark Warrior has already been Chosen. We do not have the luxury of waiting. You must reach your full potential. You must train and be ready to train others. For this purpose We will allow you two teachers. These two shall live until they are no longer useful to you. They will be marked with a single black Shackle. They will not be chosen with conscious though but by actions alone. You will have the duty of explaining what has happened to them. You must be prepared to be a leader. You are the Protector of the Innocent. Yes, But even you need help. Don't be afraid to ask for help when you need it.”

Abruptly Xander was back in the Magic Shop. He cleared his throat softly, just enough to get Giles' attention. When the older man looked up from his book, Xander made a point of looking at all the books scattered around the room then back at Giles, then flicked his gaze to the book case and back. Fortunately Giles took the hint.

Giles stretched and yawned before standing.

“Well, I think that is quite enough for tonight considering we don't even know what we are looking for.” He shuffled some papers around.

“Xander do you think you could help restore some order around here before you join Buffy patrolling?” He said looking rather pointedly at Buffy.

“Sure thing G-Man. The Xander shape is here for you!” Xander goofed before also standing.

“Willow, you and Tara go ahead. Just take the South and the West Cemeteries then go on home. These two can handle the rest.” Giles tone standing no argument.

“Ok. Giles if you’re sure.” Willow replied slowly. Clearly knowing that there was something she was missing but having no reason to stay.

She and Tara left quietly while the others began stacking and sorting though the books on the table.

As soon as the door closed Giles walked over to it and traced a rune in the air. Xander could see the air in front of the door shimmer then return to normal as the spell set in place. Giles nodded in satisfaction then turned back to Xander.

“All right Xander. What has happened?”

“We need to step up our time table a little.” Xander said not meeting either of his friends in the eyes.

Giles stepped to one of the racks and started pulling out different bottles and herbs. “How much is a little Xander? How soon?”

“I don't know about all of it but…”

Buffy stepped forward when he hesitated. “Xander, we need to know every thing if we are going to help you.” She rested her hand on his forearm. “Xan.”

Xander blushed deeply and took a deep breath. Looking only at Giles he said almost in a whisper. “I need Spike. We need to do the spells tonight. The Dark Warrior has been Chosen.”

“So soon! But Xander,” Buffy felt the blood leave her face. They hadn't had anytime. Xander hadn't trained. No one was ready. All the years she had been the Slayer her worst fear was of loosing her friends. She had finally accepted the fact that she couldn't stop them from helping her but to her Xander would always need protection. It had gotten easy over the years to think of Willow as almost an equal. She was strong in her craft.

Buffy fought her way out of her panic when she felt big gentle hands guide her to sit.

“Hey Buffy calm down. Its OK. I don't have to fight yet. I just need Spike so that I can gain my full power. And control.”

Xander glanced up at Giles through dark overly long bangs. “You get the stuff ready for the spell. Buffy and I will patrol and get Spike. Let's meet at my apartment in…” he glanced at his watch, “Two hours.”

Chapter Twelve

Buffy was shocked at the sheer violence in Xander as he dusted vampire after vampire. Twirling around, a stake in each hand. He had gone berserk when they discovered a nest of vamps held up in the warehouse that Spike and Dru had claimed. She had suggested they wait for Spike to be with them before going in.

The gleam in Xander’s eyes gave a moment of pause before he reached around here and threw open the bay doors. Her own natural violent Slayer instinct took over and she waded into the already frenzied fray.

“Well, well, well, what do we have here? Did you guy's know that the Slayer was bored?” Buffy shouted out as she dusted her first vamp of the evening. She and Xander moved back to back as the vampire nest swarmed over them.

When she had half a chance to catch her breath and think for a moment. She thought about how good it was to have someone she trusted to be able to take care of themselves at her back. “Hey Xan,” Buffy said as she threw a right hook at a vamp.

“Yeah Buf?”

Buffy staked the injured vampire before turning back and grinning. “Ya havin’ fun yet?”

“Why Elizabeth Anne Summers, are you implying that I'm enjoying all of the maiming and killing?” Xander asked in an affronted tone that didn't match the grin on his face. He ducked a punch thrown by a huge vampire, as he ducked he spun into a leg sweep. The vampires dust hit the floor as Xander stood and faced Buffy, grin still in place.

“Well I don't know Xan,” Buffy laughed as she elbowed a vampire behind her in the nose. “I'm not the one mated to a vampire!” She spun and staked the bleeding vamp, then continued. “Speaking of which we need to stop playing around here. We have to meet Giles in an hour and we still have to find Spike.”

The warehouse suddenly grew quiet as Buffy finished speaking. There was a commotion at the back of the room and hushed whispers. Only about twenty vampires remained and Buffy felt sure that between the two of them she and Xander could handle the situation. Then she saw what had caused the change in the massive fight.

Four huge, scaly type demons walked out of the back room with a very battered and bloody Spike between them.

“Oh Shit!” She groaned. This was so not what she needed right now. She glanced quickly over at Xander. Yep there it was. The gleam in his eye that really didn't match the rest of his smiling face. But in a way it did. In a 'everyone in this room is about to be dust' kinda way.

The largest demon drew Spike up in front of himself and started snarling in what Xander assumed was its language. He was getting restless everything in him screamed 'Kill kill' But he knew he had to wait. The grin he plastered on his face began to hurt as he gritted his teeth tightly.

'Mine' 'My Mate' and 'Kill all of you'

Xander felt his wrists start to grow warm. 'That's right' he thought. 'Protect what is mine. Protect my Mate.' He started concentrating on his Shield Shackle. A faint golden glow enveloped his hand.

Spike lifted his head as the scent of his boy and the Slayer reached him. Scanning the room with his good eye gave him a headache but he let his eyes roam until he saw them. He was proud as he noticed that the whelp didn't have a scratch on him. The amount of vampires had been reduced by about half and by the amount of dust on his boy he would have to say Xander had been holding his own.

Then his eyes fell to the Slayer and Xander was almost forgotten. Spike nearly whimpered except that William the Bloody did not whimper.

'Love her'

'Bloody Wench'

Jagoth the leader of the Noral demons that had kidnapped him was giving a very impassioned speech about how the new Lord of the Hellmouth needed to be rid of all previous holders. How Spike betrays his own kind by hunting with the Slayer.

On and on he droned. Spike wasn't even listening anymore. He was keeping an eye on the White Hats as they slowly advanced on the platform. When they got within twenty feet of him he started feeling a light tingling growing in his gut warmth and safety radiated out. His strength returned to tired limbs. He stood up straight, no longer limp in Jagoth's arms.

He knew somehow that this was Xander. Xander had given him his strength back. Spike flashed a quick smirk at his dark haired boy then winked at the Slayer. She at least seemed to understand the signal for what it was. A warning. Spike was about to make his move.

Spike spun suddenly and pushed the Noral demon back.

“Hey stupid don't you realize that you are in the presence of greatness?”

Xander and Buffy suddenly flanked him.

“This is the bloody Slayer you piece of shit. I think you should kneel before her.” Spike spat out as he smashed the heal of his boot into the demons knee.

Jargoth screamed as he hit the floor. His shattered knee cap making a sick sound as it struck the floor.

Spike barely registered the fact that the three other Noral demons weren't too amused by their leader being injured. It wasn't until Xander stepped in front of him, that Spike saw the movement of the sword.

Chapter Thirteen

Buffy decided to let Xander handle the threat to his mate. She stepped back as the sword moved and tried to pull Spike back with her. But as soon as she reached out to grab his arm, a shimmering shield surrounded him.

“Spike,” she whispered at the confused vampire. He had been looking forward to a little pay back. “Back away Spike. Let Xander deal with them. We still have to get through them.” She nodded back toward the group of angry looking vampires.

“What the hell is goin ‘on here Slayer?” Spike growled, trying to keep watching everything at once.

Xander grabbed the blade inches before it met with his chest. Blood spurted down the blade before he turned it flat against his palms. He stepped forward into the attack while twisting the blade to one side. The demon had not expected that move and momentarily lost his grip on the hilt. That was all it took. Xander ripped the sword from his hands. He quickly flipped the sword around and rammed it home, between the demon's ribs. Where he assumed a heart would be.

He felt the ripple in his power as the shield activated around Spike. The other demon backed away when he saw the feral grin appear on the human's face. It was an unexpected danger. The humans with the Slayer were usually protected, not really a danger offensively. He thought about how wrong that assumption was just as his head was severed from his body.

Lust flashed through Spike's body at the look on Xander's face right before attacking the second demon, Jagoth. He nearly came in his pants as Xander took his time slicing Jagoth into pieces. All of the vampires not currently fighting the Slayer had stopped to watch the show. They backed away as Xander jumped off the platform, still swinging his great bloody sword and headed right for Spike.

Xander shook the sweat soaked hair out of this eyes as he walked slowly towards his mate. His eyes narrowed as he scented the air. He could smell Spike's blood. The vampire should have healed already, if he had been feeding properly. Xander made a note to see to his mate eating better. He took a step away from the blond man when he called Buffy over. He felt her enter the shielded area he had created around them, then lifted his forearm to the blade.

Neither Slayer nor vampire could believe that this was their friend standing in front of them. Spike came out of his stupor first and attached himself to the bloody cut the boy offered to him.

Spike was in a world of his own. A world of fire and light. Xander's blood was full of magic, full of life. He had taken two Slayers down in his time and even tasted Buffy a time or two. Those paled in comparison to Xander. He was addicted at first taste and healed by the first swallow. Images of Xander flashed in his mind. He didn't understand everything that he saw but he knew that this…the essence of Xander would’ve been the same even before the change he noticed the other night.

Time lost all meaning for the vampire.

Buffy saw the look of ecstasy on Spike's face and couldn't turn away. Watching in amazement as the hollow in his cheeks filled out, his skin turned a healthy pink color. She couldn't describe it, he just looked…better. When Xander reached up and caressed Spike's prominent facial ridges, Spike let go of his arm and howled.

'Beautiful' Xander thought. He had never seen anything as beautiful as Spike feeding from him. And the expression on his face! He just had to reach up and touch it.

The smell of cum hit him as Spike howled his pleasure.

Xander grinned. 'Hell fuckin yeah!' He had just make a hundred and something year old master vampire come in his pants!

He grabbed Spike around the waist as the vampire's knees gave out. Spike blinked up at the human.

“Wow, that was fuckin' fantastic!” Spike straightened as he came back to himself. He glanced around noting that all but one of the other vampires had fled. His gaze turned to the last member of their trio. Buffy.

She was looking at him strangely, a mixture of exasperation and amusement that practically screamed…fondness.

So she was 'fond’ of him huh. 'Well , William It's better than hate innit.'

“Slayer, you let them all get away.” He growled. After all she didn't really think he was going soft did she?

“Shut up Spike,” Buffy said with a small laugh. “Wonder why this one stayed?” She asked as she wondered over to the unmoving minion.

He still didn't run away as Xander approached him but Buffy could see him begin to shake. The young vampire closed his eyes and swallowed hard as Xander leaned in to whisper in his ear.

“Hear me, Blood Demon. I let you live for one reason only. Deliver a message for me. Let the word spread. William the Bloody is mated to The Warrior of the Light. Do you understand Blood Demon? I have claimed my companion. He is mate to the White Knight. I trust, I don't have to explain the penalty for harassment to you. All violators will meet the Light. This I vow by my Blood.”

Xander stepped back. The words just seemed to flow out of him. He hadn’t known what he was going to say when he had bent to whisper in the minions ear. It had a sort of ritualistic feel to it. The Powers probably had a hand in this too. He wondered, briefly if every thing in his life from now on was going to be this way. The vampire swayed on his feet and looked even more pale if that was possible. He had seen the human fight off the Noral demons. Then turn and willingly feed Spike, there was no way he wanted to test this vow. Not wanting to turn his back to them he stumbled backward towards the entrance before turning and disappearing in a burst of vampire speed. Just wait until he got back to his master and told him of this newest development. He had found the Warrior of Light. The minion just knew he would gain the master's favor for this night's work.

Buffy moved up to Xander and put an arm around his waist, she lead him to the open doorway of the warehouse. She knew he had expended too much energy on top of feeding Spike. Which she was still a little freaked over.

“Xan, lets get out of here.” She spoke softly.

“What the hell did you say to him Whelp?” Spike asked as he moved to Xander's other side. He was beginning to worry about how pale the young man was getting beneath all that Demon Blood. Now that the fighting was over Spike could clearly see how tired the young human was. Spike felt like a part of him that had been sleep for a long time was finally waking up. A soft warm feeling coursed through him as he glanced down at Xander.

Xander rolled his head from one side to the other on the verge of passing out. A giddy feeling rolled over him.

“Spike!”

“Yeah mate. I'm here.” Spike answered worriedly before looking to Buffy for answers.

“He just used too much energy. He just needs to get home and rest.”

“What the hell did he say to that minion to get him to turn tail and run like that?” Spike questioned again.

“Spike,” Xander whispered again to get Spike's attention. “I told him you were mine.”

Spike stood speechless as Xander finally passed out with a dopey grin on his face.

Chapter Fourteen

The corridor was quiet as they made their way to Xander's apartment. Spike hadn't spoken since Xander had passed out in his arms.

'I am not worried about Spike.' Buffy told herself. 'Just concerned about Xander.' Her friend was being carried by a confused vampire that was trying his damnedest to not look confused. The only reason she could tell that anything was bothering Spike was the tell-tell clenching of his jaw.

When they reached Xander's door Buffy pulled her keys out of her pocket. She glanced up at Spike as she unlocked the door and stepped inside. He was staring down at the man in his arms, worry written all over his face.

When Spike felt her gaze on him he took a deep steadying breath and met the Slayer's eyes. He saw her flinch and realized he had slipped into gameface. He pulled the demon back as much as he could but knew his eyes were still golden. 'Why did he say that? What the Hell just happened?' Spike's mind was in a whirl. The walk across town was a blur. All he could think about was Xander's claim of ownership. He knew that the entire demon community would know about it by morning. William the Bloody, claimed by a human. Not just any human but a White Hat, one of the Slayer's Pets. What really concerned Spike was that he was not more concerned.

In a strange way it felt right that this man should claim him for a mate. As he gazed at the Slayer he could still feel the love that had seemed to consume him the last few months, but now it was muted by this other thing.

“I told him you were mine.” Spike shivered as he heard those words again. Spike stepped through the door after Buffy invited him in. His body seemed to be on auto pilot as he moved to the sofa and laid his burden down. He stayed kneeling on the floor, staring at the beautiful face before him. He noted the minute differences in this Xander and the boy/man of a week ago.

He hadn't realized how much he missed studying the other man until just then. Now he could clearly pick out the small changes to Xander's face. Up close the twenty year old looked more like a thirty year old. A hard life on the Hellmouth could do that to a man who faced the nightly terrors that this man did. And yet Spike would swear that a week ago there were no lines on this lovely face.

Spike sighed deeply, stood and turned to Buffy. When the familiar pang hit his gut he was able to push down the longing with a simple thought.

'Spike, I told him you were mine.'

“All right Slayer. Would you care to explain this?” His voice was unusually subdued.

“I wish I could Spike. But this is Xander's little drama. I'll leave it to him to explain.” Buffy looked around. The fight left her charged with unused adrenaline and she was getting fidgety. “I need to call Giles. Make yourself comfortable.”

Spike settled into the recliner, sitting almost sideways so he could get a better look at his boy. He could hear Buffy mumbling in the kitchen and was lulled into a brood.

______________________________________________________

Cordelia's feet lifted off the floor as the vision sent her mind inward. Xander in pain…A blond girl, confused and alone…Spike in gameface with blood running down his chin…Willow, her eyes black with power…tears running down her face…Angelus, laughing at the blond girl…

Angel was sitting in his office feeling very alone and detached from the world. He laughed at Ann Rice's vampire stories but understood some of her characters more than he cared to admit. The disassociative feeling was taking over more and more. Everything that had happened since his return from Hell had been a fight. At this point he just wanted peace. He knew happiness was too much to ask for but peace? You could be at peace without being perfectly happy. Couldn't you? It was like the difference between living and just surviving.

He tensed when he heard Cordelia scream out.

“Vision”

Angel made it to the lobby just as Wesley and Gunn came running in from the kitchen. They all skidded to a stop in front of Cordelia. They hadn't seen her like this in a while, not since Wesley had been injured, in fact.

Cordelia was sitting on the floor, hugging her knees to her chest crying softly. Surely the Powers That Be would not have sent her a vision that would turn Angel evil again. She could still feel Xander's pain, she just didn't understand it. She could feel that he was in pain, but he was not scared. Usually the people in her visions were terrified. She jumped as Wesley laid a hand on her shoulder.

“Delia, what did you see?” His voice was gentle.

She had always liked his voice. So reminiscent of Giles. The other Scooby’s might not understand but Giles had been like a father to her too! When her real father had just thrown money at her Giles had actually listened. There were plenty of nights where the two of them had comforted each other while the core of the Scooby’s had been out fighting. She had always left before they got back but those precious moments she wouldn't trade for anything.

Someone was talking to her. What? Oh, Yes…that horrid vision. Well she just wouldn't let it happen. That's all there is too it. Her amazing strength of will came rushing back. Her shoulders straightened and she sat up. Dried her eyes with the heel of her hand so as not to ruin her makeup. Cordelia looked up into Angel's dark eyes and said simply,

“Xander needs us.”

Angel let out the deep breath he had been holding. If the Powers had sent Cordy a vision of the Sunnydale group then it could only be a problem of catastrophic proportions. After all they hadn't sent any visions when the Scooby’s faced a Hell God.

Angel turned toward the stairs and calmly threw over his shoulder. “Wesley, Gunn you stay here. Cordy and I are going home.”

Decision made.

As Angel took to the stairs his world turned black and he felt himself fall.

Chapter Fifteen

“Hey, Spike. Giles will be here in a few minutes. He can get Xander awake then we'll explain everything to you.” Buffy leaned against the wall to the kitchen as she spoke. She closed her eyes leaned her head back and sighed. Willing herself to calmness. She took deep breaths letting them out slowly.

Spike was deep in thought, he heard the Slayer but made no effort to respond.

When Giles arrived they had been sitting in silence for nearly half an hour. Buffy went to let him in, then came back and stood next to Spike. Giles knelt next to Xander.

“He has gotten some color back but not much,” Buffy commented.

Giles put his duffel bag on the floor next to him and began pulling out vials of strange looking liquids and powders.

“Don't worry, he will be fine momentarily. This elixir will return his energy.” Giles muttered almost to himself. He gently tipped Xander's head back with one hand as he unstopped a vial with a lightly glowing blue liquid. Holding the vial in the other hand and pulling the cork out with his teeth. He poured a small amount of liquid into the young man's mouth, waited for him to swallow then poured the rest.

Xander felt the energy flow into him with a jolt. He took a deep breath and surged up. Wow. That was cool! Xander looked around at the concerned faces staring at him.

“Hey G-Man. What's up?” He tried to remember why they were all there. His gaze flickered to the others in the room. They skimmed across Buffy and settled on Spike. His stomach clenched when their eyes met. The fight came back to him then, but more importantly what he said after the fight came back. His cheeks stained pink as he remembered announcing his claim to the demon world.

Spike blinked and drew an unneeded breath as the human's heart rate increased. 'I told him you were mine,' ghosted through his head.

Xander saw Spike's reaction. The unneeded breath, the darkening of his blue eyes and the tell-tell scent in the air. Xander sniffed the air, the aroma of arousal was intoxicating. A low rumble started in his chest he could tell that the vampire could hear it by the quickening of his breath.

Spike scented the air and smelled Xander's arousal mixed with his own. He heard the low growl and the whispered “mine”.

'Cor,' he thought as Xander's eyes brightened to an almost yellow. 'He's a beauty.' Spike almost vamped out.

Giles, aware of the by play between the two other men, decided they had better hurry this night along. He cleared his throat as he removed his glasses.

“Yes, well…” He said as he rubbed his already spotless lenses. “Gentlemen, I suggest we move this along.”

Spike shook his head to clear it of the scent of raging hormones.

“Yeah. Ok. Now can one of you explain what the hell is going on?” Spike asked through gritted teeth.

Everyone looked to Xander. He saw everyone looking at him for an explanation and gave a little nervous laugh.

“Yeah. Um. Wow, am I thirsty. Anyone else need a drink? My mouth is like cotton.” Xander babbled as he hopped up and started towards the kitchen. “What was that stuff you poured down my throat G-Man? Cause I gotta tell you, it packed a Hell of a punch but man what a nasty after taste.” His voice was muffled as he buried his head in the fridge.

The others sat in the living room blinking at one another knowingly, waiting for Xander to get his nerves under control. 'What the hell am I gonna say? Spike you are my fated mate. Spike, how would you like to walk in the sun? Spike, I got good news and bad news. Nope used that one on Giles. Fuck. Think Xander. Use some of those new smarts and think of something.' He guzzled his soda and walked back into the living room.

Giles was on the floor drawing patterns on the carpet with salt. The coffee table had been pushed aside and Spike had moved to sit beside Buffy on the couch. Both were looking at him with questions in their eyes.

“Xander, would you please explain all of this to Blondie before he implodes.” Buffy pleaded.

He took a deep breath and sat in the recliner facing the blond duo. 'Ok. Xan start with the easy stuff first.

“First Spike. I have to tell you something that might be hard for you to hear but hear you must. You must listen. We need to do a spell, a sort of detection spell on you.” Xander held up his hand to forestall any reply until he was finished speaking. “We need to now whether or not anyone has put any spells on you. Specifically a Love Spell. We…I think that someone is forcing you to feel that you are in love with Buffy.

“No. I don't believe that.” Spike shot up from his seat.

Xander spoke quickly, afraid the vampire was getting ready to leave. “There is more Spike. A lot more.” Xander said quietly.

“Spike. You should listen. At least hear him out.” Buffy got up and walked over next to the snarling vampire as she spoke. Then laid a hand on his arm. “What would it hurt? At worst he is wrong, and yes that might hurt, but at best…” she hesitated then began again in a softer voice. “Spike, wouldn't you want to know.”

Giles finished his pentangle on the floor and looked up at Spike.

“Let me do this detection spell. It is quick, painless and will tell us what we need to know. Wouldn't it be best to at least know.”

Spike looked over at the Whelp. Bloody White Hats. Bloody Magic. They just thought that he wasn't capable of Love. That's all. He knew how he felt…err…didn't he. He took a deep breath and closed his eyes.

'I told him you were mine,' ghosted through his head again. He locked eyes with Xander. He could see hope there in those eyes. “Ok. I'll do it.” His voice was husky with doubt and pain and not surprisingly hope as well. “What do I need to do?” Spike asked. His eyes never leaving Xander's.

Giles finished lighting the incense and motioned for Spike to enter the circle.

“Just sit in the circle and be quiet. Don't distract me.” He turned to Buffy and Xander. “Don't interrupt me. I will be tracing any spells back to the caster. It might take a few minutes, according to how many there are. Don't worry Xander. No matter what I find I will be able to deal with it.” He directed this last comment to Xander. Buffy didn't know that Xander suspected Willow had cast these spells because she wanted to keep Xander from his mate. Xander had made sure that Buffy thought Willow had done this for good reasons. Not nefarious.

Spike's mind was racing. Was it possible? Did someone muck up his brain. Well…he had been feeling like he was going barmy. Half of him loved the Slayer to distraction while the other hated her with the fiery passion of a thousand suns. And the claim that the Whelp had made on him felt right on so many levels it was scary. While his mind raced he could hear the Watcher begin his incantations.

Chapter Sixteen

Angel woke up with a groan and looked around he was in some sort of windowless chamber. Lit only by four torches lined along the back wall. It reminded him of the chamber Doyle had taken him to. This looked like the Temple of the Powers that be. Angel knew that they would see him in their own time and that while here time would stop on the outside. So all he could do was wait. That was something he had plenty of practice doing.

Angel was back into full brood mood when he felt a breeze across his face. He had been leaning back with his eyes closed. Now he snapped to attention sat up straight and looked around. When he saw that he was indeed still alone he slumped back against the wall again. His hands fell to his side and touched paper. That's when he found the scroll.

Angel unrolled the dry parchment slowly. Fully aware that it might be spell trapped. 'Great, just like the Powers to send me a scroll I can't read', he thought as he glanced over the words. Not quite hieroglyphs but not quite words. Runes maybe. But not any he recognized. Time pass slowly and Angel kept glancing at the scroll then putting a back down. Finally he picked it up and threw it across the room. Then he stood and yelled.

“You know there are more important things I could be doing with right now,” he walked to the center of the room and turned a full circle as he spoke. “You know like seeing to that vision you just sent.” He was tired, hungry and his ass hurt from sitting on the marble floor.

He felt a presence behind him and turned.

“Be at ease Liam,” the beautiful blonde said in a voice that could make angels weep. She held the scroll back out to him. “Do you not want to read?” She asked with a tilt of her head.

“It's garbage. I can't read it,” he crossed his arms in front of himself.

The gesture made her smile. “Ah, Yes. Indeed you are Chaos.”

Angel blanched for a moment. “What do you mean Chaos I work for the Powers. For the Light.”

“Do you now! I think not. Perhaps you should take another look at this.” Again she tried to hand the scroll to Angel this time he took it.

He sighed and growled softly to himself. He walked over to the nearest wall put his back to it and slid down. He grumbled the entire time about the stupid Powers interrupting their visions so that he could read a stupid scroll. Yesterday occurred to him that most likely the vision and the scroll were connected but he was much more of a doer than a thinker.

Angel was amazed when he unrolled the scroll this time he glanced back up through his lashes. He was about to make a snarky comment when he noticed that he was alone. He looked back down at the scroll and began to read.

Scroll of the Chosen

The end times have been foretold. When the moon shines red next to the white of the sun. Four Warriors shall gather. In the name of the Light they shall fight. Their souls shall be Their strength. The strength of Their wills shall be Their weapons. Let Their mates be Their guide, teacher, companion and partner in the fight.

In balance as ever there must be. Four Warriors of the Dark must be called. They fight with Their hate Their lust fur power shall be Their strength. Their twisted knowledge be their weapons. Let Their mates be Their guide, teacher, companion and partner in the fight.

As this realm is ruled by chaos, it to shall have its Warrior. One an who knows no rest. Equal parts shadow and light He shall taste Heaven and be rejected, Hell shall not contain Him. When He has chosen, the battle shall consume them all. And choose He must. For all time this realm shall follow in His path.

Angel sighed deeply and closed his eyes. His head started to throb. He spent a minute thinking about the wonders of being un-dead and not having a pulse and yet his head throbbed with a rhythmic memory over two centuries old.

Chaos she had called him. So all this time working for the Powers That Be, he had not they're working for the Light. Angel felt the demon shudder it always did when he thought about being this Hero for the Light. It was a constant battle the scroll was right about that. Equal parts Shadow and Light never knowing a moments peace.

He resigned himself to forever knowing only this conflict within. His soul was in constant struggle with his demon.

Angel ground but opened his eyes and continued reading. It seemed the rest of the scroll was about the chaos warrior. Him.

The Warrior shall not stand-alone at the time of the choosing; his mate shall be by his side. The Chaos Mate shall know Shadow and Light and bring peace to the Warrior.

Angel swallowed. He had a mate. The idea appealed to both his soul and his demon, but he was already worried about losing his soul.

Angel stood and spoke. “Ok. Can you explain how this is supposed to work?”

He waited patiently. He didn't have to wait long until he felt the 'presence' again. She appeared before him accompanied by the sound of bells.

“Liam, you have a questions? Yes,” her voice made the demon rage inside him and his soul cringe. Angel felt a subtle shift as the demon raged. His soul hid behind his demon as if for protection, and the demon felt protective of the soul. Curious? It was something he would the brood about later.

Angel crossed his arms in front of himself. His mind raced, several questions need to be asked but which ones were the most important? What his mind kept coming back to was his mate. He had a mate. Mate. Mine. He almost growled. His eyes flashed gold for moment before returning to their normal chocolate brown. The conflict within his soul quieted for the moment allowing the soul to dominate blood the demon. The thought of his mate as a possession riled the soul. Forever fighting. He sighed.

“Who are you?” Angel finally settled on looking at this logically.

“I am the messenger. The voice of the Powers That Be. Only that. The Powers That Be, and by extension myself work for no one power. We work for the Rules of Realm.” She explained as if talking to a child.

“What exactly does it mean to be the Chaos warrior? And what kind of choice do I have to make?” 'Just a few more questions and then I'll ask about my mate' Angel thought of himself.

The blond beauty took a deep breath and ran her fingers through her golden hair. Angel's eyes caught on the stunning gold shackles on her wrist. He almost didn't hear her response.

“Well, go for the really easy questions first. Why not!” She smiled at him warmly.

“Hmm,” she began to walk around the small space. “What does it mean to be the Chaos Warrior? What supposed for you it means whatever you want it to mean. It means it is your choices in your life that make you who you are. And from now on it will be the same way. Your choices will be made by using your best judgment. That is all. And as for your choice at the time of reckoning. Well, I don't know.” She shrugged her shoulders delicately, not really apologizing as it was beyond her control, but honestly sorry that she couldn't answer his questions.

“Well, what do ye know then?” His Irish lilt became through just a bit.

“I know it is the nature of Chaos to be the unknown in any equation. This time is no different.” It was obvious that she thought he should understand this.

“So it doesn't really mean anything.” Angel growled. His internal debate was making his head hurt.

“Oh, but it does.” She smiled a faintly then drew herself up. Something subtle shift in her appearance and suddenly she was speaking with more power than she was using previously.

“I call you forward Liam Angelus O'Reilly. Chooser of Destiny. I call you forward and bestow upon you the Shackle of Choice.” She stepped forward and placed one delicate hand around his left wrist.

Angel felt a fire rip through him, almost the same as when he lost his soul only ten times worse. Then as quickly as it had begun it was over. Something in him shifted. He felt more whole and yet separate. He concentrated, sending his mind deep inside himself where he always tried to keep his demon. Separate. Permanent. Equal. Whole.

Angel stared at the Messenger in shock. He heard her laughter as his world turned black.

Chapter Seventeen

The dirty motel room stank of stale sex and unwashed bodies. The yellow light from the open bathroom door provided the only light for which the only occupant currently awake was grateful. The young woman stared up at the shadowy ceiling trying to figure out what had woke her up. It felt like something was wrong with one of her spells, but which one? She wasn’t really worried every now and then one of her spells would just start to unravel due to under or over use, or merely age.

She started her deep breathing exercise, putting herself into a meditative daze. All of her spells had their own energy signature according to the type of spell and how long it had been in place. Her first priority was to the newer, weaker spells. They were fine. Simple glamour’s were usually easy to maintain. Her midlevel spells were next. The wards on her books and rooms and such. They were fine. Now she started to worry. She didn’t really have the time to redo any of her high magic spells. Now was certainly not the time for one to fail, not with her Master snoring softly in the bed beside her. Quickly, but as quietly as she could manage she slid out of bed and padded to the small bathroom.

Sitting on the floor with her back to the door was not really the most comfortable place to fight for a spell but she had a feeling that if any of her major workings were failing it was not a natural occurrence. Someone or something was causing damage to it. She threw herself deep into her magical energy, calling up the one spell that most importantly did not need to fail with her Master visiting. A blinding flash of silver energy hit her with a force rivalling her own power. Her immediate response was to fight back for the spell, struggling to regain the control she was loosing. Sweat broke out on her forehead and her nose started to bleed. Most of her weaker spells broke as she called up the energy and forced the other out of her weaving. She sagged back almost completely drained. If it wasn’t for the fact that most spells naturally fight to remain with the caster she probably would not have regained the control.

Cursing softly to herself she used the last of her energy reserves to reweave the spell. It was a complicated spell that usually she would have needed to cast a full protective circle to complete luckily the usurper had not done enough damage to the spell that it needed a full recasting right now. She had time enough to just patch up some minor things and worry about recasting when her Master had gone again.

Fully drained, she pulled herself back into bed and let sleep over take her. She never noticed when the man beside her woke up and left the room.

~~~

Giles flew back into his body as he gave up attempting to manipulate the spell he had found woven around Spike. His mind was in turmoil. He had not expected to find that particular spell when he had agreed to check the vampire. Well at least his goal had been accomplished. He looked up at the worried faces surrounding him.

“Well there is definitely a spell on you Spike, however it is not quite what we were expecting.” He took a deep breath before struggling to his feet.

“What exactly where you expecting to find and what did you find?” Spike was furious, he hated the thought that someone was using magic on him without his knowledge. There was also a part of him that was raging at the loss of yet another love, one that he had felt with every fibre of his being and yet still another part of him that was crowing over the fact that perhaps with the claim that the whelp, no Xander, had made maybe he wouldn’t be alone for long. As usual when he was confused or angry or happy or…you know feeling strong emotions Spike was up and pacing, heedless of the fact that he was scattering salt all over the floor.

Buffy sat back attempting to sink into the sofa. She was extremely relieved that they would finally solve the riddle of why Spike had suddenly fallen in love with her but at the same time it had been extremely flattering that someone had those feelings for her. Maybe now though Xander would be able to find the happiness that he deserved. She yawned beneath her hand and glanced at her watch, she needed to get back to Dawn before too much longer.

“Um, guys I hate to break up the party but is there anything left to kill? Because if not I’m going home.”

Xander stood. “I don’t think there is anything left to do tonight really. Other than the fact that I need to talk to Spike.” He looked at the pacing vampire for a moment before speaking again. “Stay the night.”

Spike couldn’t tell if Xander was asking or telling him but it sounded good to him, even if he did have to sleep on the sofa. “Ok, I need to dash down to Willy’s and get some blood, but I will come back here around dawn.”

“There is fresh blood in the refrigerator. Help yourself.”

Spike was stunned. Just as he was about to comment Giles cleared his throat and broke the tension that was threatening to build.

“Xander, tell him everything. He needs to know it all before we go any further. I will need both of you to break this spell on him. We all need to meet here tomorrow night. And don’t say anything about this to either Willow or Tara. Not until we know for sure what is to be done.” Giles gave a significant look to Xander that Buffy did not catch but Spike did.

“Give me a ride?” Buffy asked as Giles held the front door open for her. His eyes softened as he looked down at her. She didn’t understand the look but felt a fluttering in her stomach and looked away quickly.

“Of course, it is my duty to see you home safely.”

A shiver ran down her spine, maybe she had watched ‘The Princess Bride’ with Dawn one to many times this week, but she could have sworn that was Giles saying ‘As you wish.’

Spike watched this exchange between Watcher and Slayer with a small tired smile. 'Well who would have thought it' He looked up to find Xander rolling his eyes at the couple as the door closed behind them. Abruptly nervous energy hit him. Spike spun on his heel and went to the kitchen to fortify himself with some much needed blood. This night had already been long, he didn’t know how much more he could take with an empty stomach. He knew it wouldn’t be as good as he had earlier, Xander’s blood could certainly become very addictive, but he drank nonetheless.

When he had finished his meal and was pleasantly full he walked back into the living room to find the brunette sitting on the sofa staring off into space and fiddling with the bracelets he had been curious about.

“Well Xan, now that it is just us, don’t you think you have put this off long enough. What the Hell is going on?”

Xander took a deep breath dread filled him but he turned to address his vampire.

~~~

Angel stumbled on the stairs as his world tilted. His stomach clenched for a moment before he looked down at his wrists. Damn, it was real. He turned back around and sat on the bottom stair.

“Angel what are you doing? Get a move on. Xander needs us.” Cordelia yelled.

“Wait. Just stop for a second.” Angel held up his hand. The others in the room froze and turned back to the stunned vampire. Angel’s mind was in chaos. His soul was at peace. His demon was at peace. He morphed his face, bringing his demon to the fore of his mind. Then quickly morphed back. There was no struggle. He laughed and glanced up at the team of hunters standing around staring at him. He noticed how all of them had grabbed at a weapon, probably not even conscious of the fact that they had done so.

“Oh my God! Guys you are never going to believe what just happened to me!” He laughed again, a full belly laugh like he had not felt since…well he didn’t know when. “I will tell you all about it on the way. Delia put the cross away, I’m not Angelus. We are all going to Sunnydale. Well go, get your things. Lets go people we have things to do!”

Angel jumped up feeling younger than he had in years, and ran up the stairs. He grabbed his overnight bag and stuffed enough clothes to last a week inside, then grabbed his bag of weapons that he always kept ready for travel. By the time he got back down stairs everyone else was there waiting on him. He really had not expected them to be so fast about getting ready.

“That was fast!”

“We have been packed just in case we needed to leave fast. You know in case you became a leather wearing leech again.” Cordelia explained.

Wesley had the good graces to at least blush and look away as she blurted out their game plan. Run first research later. Angel really did like Cordelia and her no nonsense attitude! He started laughing again.

“Come on. I’ve got some great new I can’t wait to share with you.”

Still laughing he ushered all of them outside and to the car. As they drove away from the huge hotel, Wesley could have sworn he could hear Angel humming under his breath. That in and of itself was not the scary part, he had heard Angel hum before, it was just usually some Barry Manilow tune. This time however he really thought Angel was humming some show tune. He groaned as he finally recognized what it was.

“We’re off to see the Wizard…The wonderful wizard of Oz… … …”

Chapter Eighteen

Spike stared at Xander for a few minutes, watching the younger man sort through many different emotions, before breaking the silence.

“Xander,” Spikes voice was quiet and very subdued, “tell me what is going on. Why would someone put this kind of spell on me? And more importantly I want to know what is up with you. You look different, you smell different and,” he licked his lips, “you taste different.” By this time his voice was intense and husky. It sent shivers down Xander's back.

Xander sat in his favorite spot and motioned that Spike should sit as well. “You are going to want to sit for this. You can pace later.” Xander waved his hand for Spike to sit in the chair facing him. Spike sat.

“Well you see it is a bit hard to explain. Something happened to me a few nights ago.” He took a deep breath. “I was chosen to be a Warrior for the Light and will eventually play a big part in the battle with the Dark.” He paused and gave Spike a look trying to gauge the vampires reaction.

“I assume when you say the Light you mean 'The Light'. The Source.”

Xander sat stunned for a moment before clearing his throat. It was clear to him now that the Spike persona of William the Bloody was just that a persona this was the man he had glimpsed several times in the Basement of Doom. The one who quoted poetry when he thought no one could hear him, and cried at sappy old movies when he thought Xander was asleep.

“Yes, The Light. And it seems that I have to train for this fight and that certain people are fated to be my teachers and friends.”

“Which one am I then? Teacher or Friend?” Spike didn't much like where he thought this might be heading. With the claim Xander had made earlier he felt confident in assuming the worst.

Xander took another deep breath before responding. “Neither.” His voice was quiet and he couldn't look up at the vampire to see his reaction. He never did take rejection well.

Spike felt the pit of his stomach drop, and a shiver crawled up his spine, he took a deep steadying breath.

“You know,” he said slowly, accent thick, “I don't believe I will be staying here tonight after all.”

Xander's head snapped up. “But…You don't even want to talk about it? That's it then, just reject the whole thing. You are supposed to be my Mate. Forever and Ever. You know the love you feel for Buffy is false and your just going to walk away from this. Us? Fine, then the Dark has already won, because without you I can't fight to my full potential.” By the end of this tirade Xander was up and pacing.

“Would you just shut up! You've had how long to think about this? You can't expect that I could accept this without thought? I am in love with Buffy. I hate you. I thought you hated me. If it is a spell making me feel like this then…” Spike stood and nearly destroyed the chair he was sitting in. His fit of frustrated anger tore through the leather like paper. He stopped, and stared at his hands. He had lost his great strength when he had stopped feeding properly. Whatever else Xander's blood had done to him it had at least brought him back to full strength. He took a deep breath before turning back to the Warrior watching him closely. “Lets just deal with things one at a time.” His voice was somewhat calmer now.

Xander looked up at his mate through dark fringed lashes almost sheepishly. “Your right. I'm sorry. I have had some time and I am still freaked out.” He took a deep breath. “Ok about the spell. For some reason and really I don't know why, but I think Willow is casting some kind of spell that keeps you in love with Buffy.”

“What the hell would Red do that to me for? Me and the witches, we're ok. Why would they do something like that?” Genuinely confused Spike sank back down into the remnants of the chair he had just destroyed before jumping back up as a spring stuck into his ass. Xander laughed and waved the vampire onto the sofa.

“I didn't say it was Tara. In fact I don't think she knows about it. But like I said I have some really bad suspicions about Willow and I really hope I am wrong. You see the Dark Warrior has also been called. He or She has all of the same gifts that I have been given. Such as the teachers, friends, mate. I'm really afraid that Willow has fallen in with them. You know her. She is always about the next big power boost. It's like she is addicted to the magic and wants more. If she thinks that she isn't hurting anyone then she just doesn't care.” He stopped speaking, unable to articulate his worries without sounding crazy. The Willow he knew was not the same person the others knew.

Growing up in an abusive home had been bad for him and Willow had always been there. Just like he had always been there for Willow when her parents forgot about her. For a long time after they met on the playgrounds Xander had thought that she didn't even have parents. He never saw them and she never spoke of them. Growing up being the smartest and trying to impress parents that were never home or never bothered to find out just how bright their daughter really was had to have effected her more than she let on. His first clue that something was just not right with 'his' Willow was right after she moved into the dorms at Sunnydale U. She had needed something from their childhood for a spell she was working on. When he had asked what spell, he had been shocked to find out that she was making her parents really forget her. As in she had never existed to them. When he asked why she had responded that they didn't need to remember her, as she no longer needed them for anything.

“I have suspicions but nothing real. I hope I am wrong, really hope I am, but more and more it looks like I'm right. What Giles said just makes it that much more real.” Xander tried not to sound as worried as he was, but Spike could see the strain this was having on the young Immortal.

“I need a drink and to think about things. Space, what I really need is space to rage for a while. Knock a few heads together, shed some blood.” Spikes voice was rather subdued, he needed out, his demon was screaming at him. “I'll see you at the shop tomorrow.” He turned to leave, his mind was to overloaded to think straight. 'Out, I need out. Outoutout…' his demon was screaming.

“Spike…”

He stopped but did not turn back. “Tomorrow.”

Xander collapsed back onto the couch as the door softly clicked behind his vampire. “Well, that went well.” He said to his empty apartment.

----------------------------------------------------------------

Spike sauntered down the cracked sidewalk his usual swagger firmly in place. Xander's blood and the really good human blood Xander had supplied him with still hummed through him. It was the first time he felt at full strength since the stupid wankers had put that bit of metal in his head.

Xander.

He did actually believe the story, but his demon was raging at him. Him the Big Bad working for the Light. It was almost more than he could fathom. But really he was already working for the Slayer, would it be any different if he was the Mate to a Warrior? No. Yes. Bloody Hell.

Of course it would. He would be giving up all pretence of being the reluctant hero.

'You'll be accepted.' a little voice he had not listened to in a long time piped up.

'He will never leave you.'

'Never forsake you.'

'He will Love you.'

“Alright, just bloody well shut up already.”

The walk across town was quiet. Not even one demon spotted on his way. The parking lot of Willy's bar was empty. Spike really hoped the inside was as crowded. His luck was just not holding, as he swung open the door to the common room he groaned inwardly. Full house tonight. As the other vampires and demon and various non-reputable beings noticed who had just walked in, the bar fell silent. He made his way to the bar nodded to Willy and held up two fingers. As the nervous bartender filled up the two shot glasses with Jack Daniels, the room almost as one stood and slowly moved towards the door.

“I see the word got around.” He mumbled quietly.

“Spike, I don't need trouble. I got enough as it is.” Willy whispered as he refilled the first shot glass.

“I don't either. I just need a drink. Several in fact, so shut your trap and just keep pouring.” He let a little gold show in his eyes. Willy was a smart one, he might know that Spike could not hurt him, but he still respected the fact that he was a Master Vampire. And that made him dangerous, with or without his bite. He left the still full bottle of Jack and walked away to clean up his now empty bar.

Several hours later a severely inebriated Vampire stumbled back into Xander's apartment loaded down with a couple of boxes full of blood packets. After shoving both boxes into the already cramped refrigerator he collapsed on the sofa and was soothed asleep by soft snoring from the bedroom.

Chapter Nineteen

Xander woke early and headed to the coffee pot. He stopped and stared at the vampire lying on his couch. He swallowed hard at the picture the blond made. Spike was laying on his back with one leg bent up and leaning against the back of the couch, one arm slung over his face and the other leg and arm hanging off the edge of the sofa. He was breathing Xander noted with a small smile. In all the time he had known Spike he had never known the vampire to not breath. Very unvampire like really. But then Spike’s whole nature screamed that he was unique among mortals and immortals alike. It was part of the attraction he guessed.

He finally made his coffee and ate his donut in between all of the Spike watching. How was Spike going to take this he wondered. What conclusions had the vampire come to, he was here, in the apartment so he obviously had not rejected Xander completely, but still Xanders inferiority complex was screaming at him.

***

Mate.

Mine.

Spike’s body may have needed the rest but his mind still battled his demon. The one thing they agreed on was that they wanted Xander. And that with Xander they would be accepted. Even if they did love the Slayer to distraction, with Xander they would never be alone. The fact that they would most likely never get the slayer but Xander was theirs for the taking played a lot in their thoughts. And while the demon might not like fighting for the light it would certainly love being able to fight in the war and would protect its mate no matter what side that mate might be on.

After several hours of debate in his trance like state Spike opened his eyes. He fully expected to be in Xander’s apartment. After all that is where he fell asleep at, but looking around he found himself in a strangely Greek like temple. Before he could even stand he was joined by a beautiful blond woman.

“William Brendon Templeton, have you accepted your mate?”

Her voice sent shivers down his spine and his demon cringed.

“I won’t be forced to Mate with anyone.” He snarled. He didn’t understand why he was resisting; only that he felt he had to.

“So be it.”

The next instant Spike sat up on the couch in Xander’s living room. Was it his imagination or had her last words been filled with sorrow? He looked around for any sign of Xander. A cold cup of coffee on the side table the only thing that was out of place. He tried to listen for the boy’s heartbeat but couldn’t find it. He stretched his neck muscles. Had that been a dream? It was weird that was for sure. Why had he felt the need to deny Xander? He had already decided he wanted him as his mate. Why then had he denied it when asked?

It was that place, the place where Xander had been chosen. The boy had told him about it, but the reality of it had him on the defensive. And damn it, the place had made his skin crawl. He wanted to take it back. Yes fuck it all he had chosen the boy. He would help the Light in the fight. Now he just had to get back to the sodden temple and tell the bint that he had changed his mind.

A flare of light had him cringing. When he felt it recede he opened his eyes cautiously.

“So you have accepted your fate.” The blond again.

“Yeah, I might as well right. He’s Mine. Sire gave him to me. I might as well claim him.” Spike really wanted a cigarette right about then. It always gave him some measure of distance, something to do with his hands, a nervous habit to be sure.

“Yes, he is yours, just as you are his.” She laughed. It sounded like bells to Spike.

“William Brendon Templeton I call you forward to be the Mate to the Warrior of the Light. You will help him in the coming war with the Dark. You will walk in the Light with him. You will protect him against all who oppose the Light as he will protect you. As it is foreseen, it is.” With those words she reached out and clasped his wrists.

Spike gasped as a terrible burning speared through his head. He fell to his knees, his head and neck screaming with pain. His wrists tingled with magic and he felt a great tearing in his soul. His soul, Spike looked up at the glowing woman through unshed tears.

All at once the pain was gone, a peace settled over him. His mind was silent, the demon that had been cringing in the back of his mind since entering the temple was there but different, subdued. His soul? Did he have a soul now? Something was there that had not been there before, it was soothing his demon. Strange but he didn’t feel like brooding like the poof had done when he gained his soul.

And what the Hell? What had he been thinking? How could he have thought he loved the Slayer. The Watcher had been right. It was all a lie. He remembered now, it was Xander. It had always been Xander. Since the night Angel had given the boy to him, it had always been the boy. Spike looked down at his still tingling wrists. One red Shackle, one black Shackle. Engraved with runes. Just like Xanders, it was real.

He was now the Mate of the Warrior of the Light. Tears finally made there way down his pale cheeks. He looked back up at the smiling face of the glowing woman.

“Thank you.” He whispered.

tbc...

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