The uninvited guests.
As the day ends, and all the pictures have all been taken. It grows dark at last and the group is joined by a few unexpected visitors.
Buffy: (Buffy and some of the scoobies are taking an aside from the reception for a moment.) This really has been a wonderful day. I can't believe I'm married. It's like a dream, that I've walked in for sometime. Now I've stepped through the looking glass and here I am. Can love really feel like this, and work out?
Anya: Only when your with someone you actually love. Which is how I feel about Xander, even though he called off the wedding.
Tara: When you find the right person to make you complete, it always feels like this.
Willow: Yeah if you can fight and argue without falling apart it does. It can be good. (Looks at Tara.) Actually it can be great.
Dawn: I can't wait till I fall in love, and get married. I want to be happy just like you and Spike are today.
Buffy: I'm sure you will when you get older. Just have to give it time, and let yourself be open to it. Don't push him away when he comes along. Trust me I know, I got that advise from someone really smart.
Dawn: Would that someone who's really smart have a get out of jail free card, when she does something really dumb next time?
Buffy: Well we will have to see, just how dumb it is, and how much grounding, you were going to get. (They all continue to talk, and help Dawn plan her perfect pretend wedding to some future unknown. Dawn then sees Giles at the refreshment table and goes over to get a drink. Spike and Xander are entertaining Olivia in another part of the groove. Then suddenly they are set on by the uninvited guests)
The whole area is literally surrounded by vampires. They start to harass the wedding guests.
Buffy: (Gets into the fray right away. She breaks off a chair leg, and starts to dust vampires.) This is my wedding, I don't remember sending out any invitations.
Syica: Don't think you did. See there was a convention in town. I seem to be tour guide, they wanted something out of the ordinary. So I thought we could make a little stop over.
Buffy: You again, didn't I dust you?
Syica: No but you came very close, and you hurt my feelings. But fortunately I heal real quickly, and I hate to hold a grudge so please consider this a humble little wedding gift from me to you. For all the kindness you showed to a vamp, newly in town. I wanted to return some of the kindness. I hate to gift and run but, you understand. Oh yeah did I mention duck. (He disappears as Buffy once again is attacked from behind.)
Buffy How does he keep doing that? (She quickly and easily dusts the vampires around her. Trying to keep the human guests alive. Fortunately with so many demons at the party, it works in her favor. Seems they don't like interruptions either, especially when it comes to a good party. They are fighting the vamps, as well.)
Spike: I don't remember this in the plans. Let me think, no massacre was not on the list. Just thought I'd recap, if anyone missed it. (Spike gets into the fray and starts to dust Vampires. He sees that the scoobies are in the fray doing what they can, and he fights his way towards where Buffy is. There they fight side by side.)
Somewhere in another part of the groove.
Giles: (He is in the fray, but in the confusion he and Dawn have become separated from the rest of the group. He takes the lead by going on the offensive with a couple of vampires. He can see Dawn over in another part of the clearing, he can't get to her. He sees she has problems of her own, but there is little he can do.)
Dawn: (Finding herself in the same clearing as Giles, she realizes that he is not going to be able to help her. She is about to be made mince meat for a couple of vamps. She stays calm, and she remembers everything that Spike and Buffy have taught her over the years. She moves out of the way as one comes at her. She kicks him in the stomach and sends him keeling backwards into the other vamp. Then she tries to escape to safety, but they are too fast for her, and she goes flying into the soft grass. She is in pain, but then suddenly that feeling comes over her again. She feels herself rise from the floor. She is almost literally propelled to stand in the face of her foes. Suddenly all her fear and anxiety is gone, and she feel sure of herself once more. She sweeps one vamp to the floor easily. Then goes into brief yet very rapid hand to hand combat with the other one. Finally the first vamp gets off the floor, and grabs her from behind. The other one approaches from in front. She sees a tree right behind him, and lunges up, kicking him with both feet. He flies backwards, into an awaiting tree branch. He turns to dust before her eyes. She then rapidly flips the other vamp over her shoulder, and kicks him in the groin. She tries to move back out of the way, but he is fast, and grasps her by the ankle. She trips over the edge of her dress. Their positions are soon reversed. She is on the floor, and the vamp is standing in front of her. He leans over her, about to have a Dawn sandwich for dessert. Then suddenly, he is pulled off of her.)
Syica: (Grasping the other vampire savagely.) I told you, Little Miss Muffet, is my treat. (Lifts the other vamp into the air.) I have never been very good at sharing. He pulls him back, and violently, and forcefully throws him right into the same tree Dawn threw the first vamp. He turns to dust all around them.
Dawn: (Dawn, gets to her feet.) You again.
Syica: Ready for that dance now? I've been cooling my heals, being really patient, but I think I'm ready for that dance now. I'm sure you're really light on your feet. Shall we? (He lunges at Dawn and just misses connecting with her face. He is not so lucky as Dawn strikes back and connects him full flush in the face.)
Dawn: Sorry you seem to be a bit late. My dance card seems to be full today. (He grabs her and throws her but she stays on her feet.) Guess some guys just don't know how to take no for an answer. (Her fits connect with him a couple more times.) You will make really good fertilizer for the soil, after you turn to dust.
Syica: Funny I was thinking the same about your blood, after I spill it all over this field. I've always been a messy eater, I really should brush up on my table manners. (He lunges at her again, this time connecting with Dawn, and sends her falling to the ground. Standing over her, he savors the moment. Then just as he moves in, he is tackled out of the way by Giles, who has finally made his way across the field.)
Giles: (He struggles with the vampire, and gets in a few hits.) Like a plague. Do you creatures ever take a break?
Syica: And miss all this fun. Sides I promised a dance to someone, which you seem to be interrupting. (Gets in a couple of hits on Giles.) Just gonna have to eliminate everyone in line ahead of me. Miss Muffet owes me a dance, and I'm gonna collect. (Knocks Giles to the ground, and stuns him.)
Back on the other side of the clearing. Buffy, Spike, the scoobies, and some of the party guests have unceremoniously removed the uninvited guests. Peace and order is being restored. Then Buffy and Spike go in search of Dawn, who they realize is missing. Back on the other side of the clearing.
Dawn: I've never been one to walk away from a challenge. (She has risen to her feet. Broken off the tree branch. And is holding it in her hand as a weapon.) If you're that impatient, I'm sure I can clear a space on my card.
Syica: That's what I like to see, a girl with moxy and initiative. (Looks excited once again.) Let's finish this dance. (Suddenly he can hear other voices not too far off. He can see the two from the party the other night entering from the far side of the groove. He realizes that he will be outnumbered.) I really hate interruptions. (Sees the girl in front of him distracted for a second, by the voices as well. Grabs her, before she can lift her crude stake to his heart.) Guess I'll have to settle for a taste. (He kisses her, biting her lip and drawing blood.) Guess that will do, save me a space on your dance card next time. Till then. (Throws her away from him, and makes his escape.)
Dawn: (Surprised by what has just happened. Surprised that she is not dead. She goes over to help Giles, as Buffy and Spike arrive.) Are you ok?
Giles: Got a nasty bump. (Rubs his head, as he tries to find the rock, that connected with his head.) How about you?
Dawn: I'm fine.
Buffy: We couldn't find you. Are you ok? Your lips bleeding. Did he hurt you? I should go after him.
Dawn: No, I fine. The cleaners are probably going to have trouble getting the dust and grass out of my dress, but I'm fine.
Spike: Was that the same one?
Dawn: Yeah I seem to have a fan. (Smiles weakly.)
Spike: Not if I find him. Don't let anyone hurt my family.
Dawn: (Smiles at Spike.) I'm good. I held my own.
Spike: I know bit. Come on let's get back.
Giles: You too go ahead. I need a second with Dawn. We are right behind you.
Buffy: Ok, hurry up there could still be others lurking about. (They go on ahead. Out of ear shot, but not out of visual range.)
Giles: (Once he's sure that they are out of ear shot.) And just how long has this been happening? (Pointing to the piles of dust.) Does Buffy know?
Dawn: No just you and Spike now. I don't want Buffy knowing yet, just in case it is all just a fluke or something.
Giles: Seems like Spike always knows more about what is happening with the woman in your family than I ever do. I will speak to him, not today, but before I leave. What I saw was not just a fluke Dawn. You are going to have to fine tune those skills. He is going to have to watch over you in my stead. (They catch up to Spike and Buffy, and they all head back to join the rest of the group.)
Peace is restored as all the vampires and other unwanted guests have gone, or been dusted. The party continues in style. Buffy turns to address the group. Holds up a glass, one that is not broken, and makes a quick toast. The guests cheer and the party continues well into the evening.
Finally the guests start saying their good bye's, the party starts to wind down and everyone is still in a good moods.
Giles: (A little tipsy, but none the worst for wear. Coming over to Buffy and Spike.) I can't believe how much fun I've had, dancing. Those Ramones are really something.
Spike: Go Ripper. (Spike laughs.) Hey glad you like, you can borrow the CD any time.
Giles: Thanks, I'll keep that thought in mind. (Going over to Buffy, gives her a hug.) Me and Olivia are just about to head back over to the hotel where she is staying. I think we are going to head out now. But it was a lovely party. Buffy you made a wonderful bride. (Shaking hands with Spike.) Take care of her.
Spike: Done deal. Thanks again for not staking me or anything, you've been real decent bout the whole marriage thing.
Giles: Well all this fine wine, doesn't hurt. But you do both seem extraordinarily happy. (Just then he sees Willow approaching.)
Willow: Hey Giles there you are, I was just looking for you. Said I'd drive you and Olivia back to the hotel, when you were ready to go.
Giles: Seeing as I'm a bit, snickered. That would be a fine idea. Me and Olivia are about ready to go now.
Willow: I'm really happy for you Buffy. (Gives her a hug.) Guess I'm going to get going now too. Spike, I'm happy for you too, take care of her, she's my best friend. (Moved, by everything that's happened that day, she moves to give Spike a hug. He is taken back, but responds in kind.)
Spike: Thanks, Red. Do my best. Thanks for taking part.
Xander: (Sees, the group gathered together as he makes his way over with Anya.) Hey is this a private thing or can anyone join in? (He and Anya move to again convey their well wishes to Buffy and Spike. Also to say their good bye's.)
Anya: Since Xander called off our wedding, if someone had to get married, I'm glad it was you. (Facing Buffy, gives her another hug.) Now you two go and have a great honeymoon, with lots of sex. Dawn will stay with us. Don't worry about her hearing anything she shouldn't, cause Xander and I won't be having sex for a long time to come. Isn't that right sweetie. (Turns to face Xander.)
Xander: You'll have to forgive Anya, she still mad about the whole, me calling off the wedding on our wedding day. But she's right. You too have a good time, Dawn can stay at our place. Give you two some privacy for a bit. Speaking of which, where is the Dawnster?
Buffy: She is off with Tara, somewhere around here. (Oh here they come.)
Tara: Hey looks like everyone is ready to leave. I have to go too. Buffy, Spike, great wedding. Wish you all the best.
Dawn: I had the best day. (Gives them both another hug.) I couldn't have asked for a better sister, or brother in law. I'll be good while I'm with Xander and Anya.
Buffy: (Before they all head out, Buffy says a few parting words.) I just want to say I'm so glad you were all here today, it really made the day special for me. I love you all so much. I know I've been different since coming back, but It's going to get better now. Thank you for being there. (They embrace in a group hug.)
Spike: (Bringing a chair over.) Yeah most of what Buffy said, but I want to specially thank Tara again for making sure I didn't turn into a pile of dust. Giles for not staking me, and everyone for ...well you know. Thanks. (Finishes the speech and then adjusts Buffy on the chair, as he gets ready to throw the garter.) Ok you bachelors ready? (Spike pulls up Buffy's gown as Xander Giles, and some of the other brave bachelors get ready to catch the garter. He gets ready to take it off with his teeth.)
Giles: You know it's much easier to take off, if you use your hands.
Spike: But it's not as much fun, besides I've had way more practice this way. (Looks up at Buffy sees her blushing, he laughs, then goes back to removing the garter.)
Giles: Oh, I see. (Goes to clean his glasses.)
Xander: Now see, that was just disturbing.
Dawn: Hun, I don't get it? (Looks to Willow and Tara, who both change the subject.)
Tara: So who do you thinks going to catch the garter?
Anya: (Interjecting.) Xander. Definitely Xander.
Spike:Finishes removing the garter, and gets up to throw it.)
Dawn: Oh wait I get it. (Smiles as she clues in.) Oh, I get it. (Looks more surprised than amused. Stops smiling, just looks shocked. Looks over at Buffy.)
Buffy: (Groans from the chair where she is sitting, and covers her fully blushing cheeks.)
Tara: Dawny, how about we see if any of that ice cream survived from earlier?
Dawn: Yeah, huh. Sure. (Walks off with Tara.)
Spike: (Throws the garter. Giles catches it.) Nice catch Rupert.
Giles: Well, thanks. (Gushes a little, as Olivia walks over.)
Olivia: Yes, nice catch Rupert. (Puts her hands on his chest kisses him lightly, but suggestively.) Very nice catch.
Anya: Xander you missed it by a mile.
Xander: But sweetie, you already caught the bouquet.
Anya: Oh stop making excuses. (Xander comes over, and kisses her.) Just don't make me wait forever.
Xander: I won't.
Spike: Think that's our que. (Takes Buffy in his arms and kisses her deeply.)
Buffy: Then again what isn't our que. (Kisses him back deeply.)
After all the guest have left, and the party is over with. All the scoobies make their way to their perspective locations. Buffy and Spike stop by her house, then make their way to his crypt.
Spike: (Grabs Buffy and carries her into the crypt.) Well I got to make it all official don't I? Carrying you over the threshold and all.
Buffy: Oh! (She pouts.) I was kinda sure there was more involved with making a marriage official. (Gives him her wide eyed innocent look, which he finds irresistible.)
Spike: (Very much game, for playing along.) Yeah I kinda heard that some place too. Probably one of those myth things, but I heard. (He whispers some very naughty and seductive things in her ear. As he begins to undue her gown.)
Buffy: (Profanes shock, as he finishes whispering in her ear.) Oh but do, you think we should? (Then she changes her tone.) Do you think we could? (Gives him a more vixen look, as she starts on his clothing.)
Spike: Now that's my girl. (He kisses her neck, as her gown falls away. Then slowly silently the mood turns, it's charged with the electricity of their essence. Yet it's slow and soft for a change.) I love you. (They make their way downstairs of the crypt. He carries her to the bed.) I always will you know. Love you that is.
Buffy: (She looks into his eyes, and she can see eternity there.) I know. I do love you too. (She wraps her arms around his neck, and pulls him close to her.) I wanted this, even before I knew I wanted this. I really wanted this. (She gets choked up.) Be with me, now. (She conveys invitation, with every part of her being. As they lock eyes once more. They kiss breathlessly.)
Spike: I'm gonna drown in you Summers, happy and hopelessly. (They kiss hopelessly and passionately once again.)
Buffy: Is that a promise. (Laughs as he takes her, and shows her.)
Later that night at the crypt after Buffy and Spike have completely consummated their marriage, they are asleep in his crypt.
Buffy: (Just waking up she looks over at Spike and for once he is the one asleep. He looks truly at peace. She gets choked up cause she knows, that she has brought some of that happiness and peace into his life. In that moment she is truly content watching him sleep. It's the most beautiful she's ever seen him. She is about to go back to sleep when she thinks she hears something outside.)
Spike: (He is asleep. Sleeping the sleep of the undead, but finding more peace than most people know alive or dead. As Buffy leaves the bed, he can sense her departure, even in sleep, but he does not awaken right away.)
Buffy: ( She finds herself going upstairs, and out the door. She is walking a little bit. Suddenly she turns around. There in the grave yard, just past the Alpert crypt she can see something or someone. She gets closer, it is an image of the first slayer. This time instead of a mute Slayer, she can hear her clearly. The Slayer is not speaking, but there is this psychic connection, and she can understand everything that she is saying. She is giving Buffy her hand to take, to follow. Buffy goes over and takes a hold of her hand. Suddenly they have left the grave yard they are some place else. Some place with lots of chaos. She sees the first Slayer as she was before she became the first Slayer. The demons are running wild, the first Slayer starts to narrirate as images move before Buffy's face. She can hear the first Slayer speaking about the demons. She says they would have been an unstoppable plague, a fire that would have consumed the earth. They seem to be a wild restless flame, burning everything in sight. Then she sees the first Slayer being chosen to control this flame. And she hears her speak again, the Slayer says. Only a strong fire with the same force could have controlled these demons, we were chosen and called, the same flame that resides in them also resides in us. Then Buffy sees something she can not believe it scares her. Sends her to the darkest reaches of her mind. She sees the flame that is in the demons, she sees a portion of that flame being taken, and that flame, enters the body of the first Slayer. That fire starts to burn bright within the first Slayer. It's almost brighter than the sun, as she struggles to control the flame. Then she is part of the flame, and the flame is part of her, her flame burns just like the demons, cause it is the same flame. There is something different about how the flame intermingles with the first Slayer, than how it intermingles with the demons. Then Buffy travels, and she sees Slayer after Slayer, and she sees the vampires, and almost begins to grasp the meaning of all of this. Then finally she is in her house, and she is in her room. She goes across the hall, sees the bedroom like she did a couple of years ago, but this time the bed is made. She sees Dawn in the bed, and the narration begins again. You now know what you are, and soon you will know what you have become. We are all one kindred. Then she is back at the grave yard. The first Slayer says some more parting words and some more images flash, then she disappears. Buffy suddenly finds herself on the floor of Spikes crypt, she is upstairs. Cold and shivering from all she has just seen and from all she has just heard.)
Spike: Buffy.
Buffy: (She can hear Spike calling her, and she can barely move, much less speak. The whole experience has left her profoundly shaken. She hears him, getting out of bed and she finds her voice.) I'm here. I'm fine. I'll be down in a second. (She tries to control her voice.)
Spike: (Makes his way up the ladder.) Funny you don't sound fine. (Finds her still on the floor.) What's wrong luv? (He goes over and helps her up. He starts soothing her hair, and stroking her back.)
Buffy: (Buffy looks into his eyes, and she wants to tell him everything cause he looks so worried, but she is not sure about everything yet. The images are still flashing through her mind, and she is scared and unsure about all that she's seen, and there full meaning. She can't give him the full truth.) I think I had a nightmare, then I was sleep walking. I woke up and I found myself here on the floor. (Falls deeper into his embrace.)
Spike: Well that's never good. Get married to me luv, and the same night you're having bad dreams. (Tries to get a smile.)
Buffy: (Forces a weak smile.) I think the day was just very climactic. The whole excitement of the wedding, and I think I'm just stressed. (Sounds a little emotional still.) It's not everyday, I get married. I think after the wedding and the fighting, everything is just anticlimactic, and I'm just winding down.
Spike: Anticlimactic? (Raises his eye brow.) I seem to recall a couple moments this evening that were very climactic, less my technique is slipping a little bit.
Buffy: (Finally she laughs.) I think your technique is just fine. I seem to recall those climactic moments myself, since I had most of them. (She kisses him, and smiles gently at him.)
Spike: If you come back to bed luv, I bet we can get that climactic state back. Can't guarantee all the excitement of the wedding but I bet you won't be bored.
Buffy: (Unable to resist the invitation in his voice, and that in his eyes.) I'll be down in a minute. (He heads back down the ladder. She is about to follow after him.)
Buffy turns to go, but she hears that voice again. The voice of the first slayer. You have let love in, you have found the fire again. Now you will be lead to your gift.
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