Disclaimer: Mutant Enemy owns everything except my plot.

Spoilers: BtVS through 'Chosen' and AtS through 'Just Rewards'

True Nature

Epilogue

Six months after her arrival in Los Angeles, Annie Crawford followed her best friend, Buffy Summers, down the aisle of a small chapel in Los Angeles, to the altar where her fiance, Wesley Wyndham-Pryce, stood next to his best man, Spike.

After the happy couple returned from their honeymoon, Giles sat down with the two Slayers and their men.

"The Council has decided that since all of you are set on living here, and Los Angeles does not need two active Slayers, that you, Buffy, will be allowed to retire as an active Slayer, if you wish. You will still retain your Slayer strength and speed, as we would like you to continue in your role as trainer. You can work on earning your degree, or simply work for us full time. But, we would like for Annie to be the Los Angeles Slayer. We feel that you have earned the right to retire"

"Are you serious, Giles? I can retire, but still keep all my Slayer powers?"

"Yes, I'm quite serious."

Buffy looked at Spike. "I should probably discuss it with Spike..."

"Nothing to discuss, luv. If you can keep your powers and not have to put yourself on the line every night, then I'm all for it."

Buffy launched herself into Spike's arms. This was what she'd wanted ever since she'd been called. It was the closest thing to normal that she would get. And if she retained her powers, she could keep up with Spike. And, if she was still training the new Slayers, then she was still helping. She was thrilled.

She looked over at Wesley and Annie, almost feeling guilty for being so happy when they had just been told...

Annie walked over and hugged Buffy. "Congratulations. I'm happy for you. You have really earned this. And don't worry about me. I've had the most gifted trainers in history, remember? Plus, I've got Wes watching my back. I'll be fine."

Buffy smiled. She knew Annie was right. She was a damn good Slayer, one of the best Buffy had worked with, and she'd be fine. And, it wasn't like Buffy was going anywhere, she'd still be around to go on patrol from time to time if they needed help, or if she needed to kill something, so it would be fine.

Wesley stepped from behind his wife and pulled Buffy into an embrace.

"Congratulations. You've accomplished another first. The first Slayer to retire."

Buffy laughed. "Yeah, I guess I've got the record on Slayer firsts, don't I?"

They all laughed. Spike pulled Buffy down onto the couch and into his lap. She snuggled into his embrace and sighed contentedly. "I can't wait to tell Dawn."

THE END