~*~

After unlocking the door, Jake ushered Sara into his apartment. He placed her bag near the couch, and disappeared into his bedroom. "Jake, I really do appreciate this." Sara called out. He returned to the living room with a pillow and a blanket for her. "It's no problem, Pez. We're partners, I got your back and you got mines. And," he started while spreading out the blanket onto the couch, "Due to recent events, I feel even better that you're here." Sara only grinned, not wanting to talk about what happened at her apartment.

It took almost an hour to settle the situation at her apartment. News had traveled fast because in a matter of moments, Dante had arrived on the scene. Constantly questioning about what happened. Sara could tell that Dante wasn't quite buying the B&E scenario both she and Jake described but they were going to stick by it. There was even a point where Dante had tried to blame the incident on Sara. But like always, Jake played mediator, coming to his partner's rescue.

"Things went down like we said it did. Perp broke in, but it was too dark we couldn't see his face. I got a few shots out before he managed to escape." Sara stood quiet the whole time, but her eyes were narrowed on Dante.

"It's a good thing McCarty was here with you. Who knows what might have happened to you, Petzini."

Sara's brow rose at Dante's veiled threat, "Yeah, lucky me." Sara retorted.

"You better be more careful there, Petzini. Or else your luck just might run out." Dante added with a smirk on his face. 'Smug bastard,' Sara thought as she watched him leave.

"Jake? Is that you?" A female voice called out from his bedroom.

Jake turned around and ran into the room. He greeted the woman just coming out from the bathroom. "Hey there," he wrapped an arm around her waist and gave her a kiss on the cheek, "Come on I want to introduce you to my partner." He said, guiding her back to the living room and explaining that Sara was going to be staying for awhile. Sara dropped her stuff onto the couch when she heard footsteps enter the living room.

"Hey Pez, I want you to meet my friend, Natasha Marion." Jake started. Sara turned around and was shock to see the resemblance. The face, hair, eyes, everything about her screamed Nottingham. Jake was oblivious to Sara's disbelieving expression and finished the introductions, "This is my partner, Detective Sara Pezzini."

Tasha on the other hand could not dismiss the speculative stare. She stuck her hand out and said, "It's, uh, nice to meet you, Detective Pezzini."

It took Sara a moment before she realized that she was only starting. "Ah, I'm sorry," Sara shook her head slightly to recompose herself, "I didn't mean to stare. You just remind me…"

"Of someone," Tasha nodded her head, "Yeah been getting that lately. You're the second person that has said that to me actually. Don't worry about it." She smiled, waving away the awkward moment.

"Well, its nice to meet you Natasha. You can call me Sara if you want."

Tasha smiled, "Okay. So, Jake tells me that you'll be staying here for a while?"

Sara nodded her head, "Yeah, but it's just for a couple of days. Sorry for the inconvenience."

Tasha shook her head vehemently, "Don't worry about it. Besides, it will give me a chance to make some new friends."

"I've heard from Jake that you've just recently moved from England."

Jake happily watched, as both women seemed to be getting along with each other. He excused himself, saying that he was going to take shower. Sara and Natasha sat down on the couch, talking about each other. Both seemed to enjoy the other's company. Natasha leaned back against the arm of the couch, finishing up her explanation on her decision to move to New York.

"What about your parents? Do you have any sisters or …brothers?" Sara was curious, especially about having any brothers. She couldn't quite pass the overwhelming resemblance between Natasha and Ian. Then again, it could all be just a coincidence.

Natasha hung her head. It was painful for her to relive her past, but she was surprised how easy it felt to tell this complete stranger about herself. "My parents are dead. My mother passed away a couple of years ago, and my father died in a car crash when I was only two. Technically I'm an only child."

Sara's brows rose up suspiciously, "Technically?"

Natasha bit her lip and looked over her shoulder, over to the bedroom. She could still hear the shower running. She turned back and leaned forward, "Promise me you won't tell Jake?" Sara nodded her head.

"I've been telling people that I'm an only child only because that's what I've been thought to say. The truth is I had an older brother."

"What happened?"

"He died in the car accident along with my father. My mother didn't like talking about him much, it brought up too many painful memories. I tried asking my grandmother Celeste, about him but she has a hard time talking about it too. So, I just let it go. It's not like I can bring him back anyway."

Sara reached over to give Natasha's hand a reassuring squeeze, "I'm so sorry." Natasha waved it away, not bothering to hide the tear trickling down her face. "It's okay. It was a long time ago. I mean I barely remember him but even at two years old I knew I loved him." She laughed while she wiped away her tears, "I don't even know why I told you that. You're like the only person I've told this to."

Sara smiled, "Sometimes talking to a complete stranger kind of helps, I guess. I appreciate it you telling me and don't worry I won't tell anyone."

Natasha nodded her head, "Thanks."

There was a moment of silence before Sara asked, "So, your grandmother Celeste. Is she?"

Natasha beamed, "Oh she's very much alive. She's my only living relative."

"Does she live in England?"

"Yes, she does."

The gears in Sara's mind started turning. Memories from her dreams resurfaced but before she had a chance to ask more questions Jake reappeared. "Hey, Pez. The shower is free if you want to use it."

Natasha looked over to the clock on the wall, "Oh my, it's getting late. I better get to bed and let you go. I'm sure you're tired and just want to get some sleep. It was nice chatting with you, Sara." She slowly stood up from the couch.

"It was nice talking to you too, Natasha."

"Good-night, see you in the morning." Natasha said and disappeared into the spare bedroom, Jake in tow.

Sara gathered her things and headed for the bathroom. While taking a quick shower, Sara could not help but wonder about Natasha's grandmother, Celeste. Could she be the same woman she had seen in her dream? But how could it be. Natasha's last name was Marion not Nottingham. Then again, she could be taking up her mother's maiden name. Then there was the unfortunate death of her parents and older brother. Therefore, Ian couldn't really be Natasha's brother. Sara had so many questions but no answers. 'No surprise there,' she thought.

Sara pushed the questions aside for the time being. She only had enough information to speculate. And the fact that she knew next to nothing about Ian didn't help her much. Sara leaned her body against the tiled wall, the hot spray pounding against her body. She stood there thinking about Ian.

…If you really want to find him, Sara. Use the Witchblade…

She didn't know how long she stood there, but the water had gone cold. Sara turned off the shower and dried herself off with a large towel. After changing into her pajamas, Sara headed back to the living room. She slipped under the blanket and lie down. She didn't sleep right away, the words, 'Use the Witchblade,' constantly ran through her mind. The stone of the blade did nothing but sit quietly on her wrist. After a disappointed sigh, Sara closed her eyes and tried to get some sleep.

Sara tossed and turned, her sleep once again being plagued with visions brought upon by the Witchblade. Sara approached the door and tested the knob. She looked down at the blade for any indication of danger. It glowed a soft hue, urging her to open the door. Finally, she did and in the room, she was surprised to find Ian in bed.

She ran to his side, gently sitting down at the edge of the bed. "Ian," softly calling out his name. "Ian, it's Sara." She tried again, when he didn't stir from his sleep. Panic quickly engulfed her senses. It was only then did she realize the bruises and cuts that covered his body. "Oh God, Ian. I'm so sorry," she started crying. Her tears silently running down her face, falling on top of his bruised torso. Gently with her right hand, she started to trace over his wounds. First, the large gash over his right eyebrow.

Sara gasped as she passed over the wound, and in its wake, the wound had completely healed. Not even a scar was visible. She tried again, this time passing over a bruise on his face. It disappeared. She continued down his body, a sharp gasp escaped from his lips as her hand ran over his chest, down over his broken ribs.

Sara was so absorbed with healing Ian; she didn't see him open his eyes. He raised his hand to cup Sara's cheek, pulling her out of her concentration. She jumped at his touch but did not pull away. No words were said between the two. She smiled through her tears, Ian doing the same. She pushed aside the loose strands covering his face, and then caressed his cheek. Ian closed his eyes, leaning into her touch. His lips brushed over the inside of her palm.

"Sara," he whispered against her hand. He opened his eyes and reached out to capture her face between his hands. He did nothing but caress her face, not once urging her to do something she was not ready for. Ian was surprised when she moved her hand to lightly rest on his chest, and she slowly leaned down. He watched as her eyes darted between his lips and his eyes. "Sara?" Ian asked, unsure if this is what she really wanted.

"Yes," she said, answering Ian's unspoken question just before she kissed him.

It wasn't the clumsy, tentative first kiss one would share between someone new. It was those of two lovers so familiar with each other. Their mouths moved, their tongues caressed, and their teeth nipped. What started out as a kiss of acceptance and approval, quickly turned into a means of telling the other how much they have longed for this moment.

Lifetimes apart were far too long to starve the need that only the other could satiate. Ian sat up in bed as Sara moved to straddle over his hips, not once breaking their heated kiss. Sara's arms wrapped around his neck, the same time his arms curled around her body. Both were surprised that she sat there naked on his lap, her clothes seemingly had melted away. Her bare body fully exposed to Ian's rough, seeking hands. Goosebumps formed in its wake as he touched, and stroke every inch of her body.

Sara moaned into his mouth as his hands trailed up to cup both breasts. She ripped her mouth from his, both breathing heavily. She stared into his eyes, silently pleading what she wanted, what they both wanted. Sara could feel his arousal hard beneath her. Teasingly she started grinded her hips against him. "Sara…" he groaned out her name. Ian reached down to stop the enticing movements of her hips. 

"Ian please," she audibly begged, "Please."

All that separated the two from completion was a thin sheet that covered the lower half of his body. Ian lifted Sara slightly off his lap and yanked away the obstructive material aside. Now, nothing stood in their way. Ian rolled Sara onto her back, slowly easing his weight into her. Both gasped as finally two destinies became one. Sara keened out his name as his movements above her started to quicken. They hung on to each other tightly as Ian drove them closer and further over the edge. Their voices cried out filling the emptiness around them. Their names being echoed back.

Spent, they lay there in their bed entangled and joined. Neither one knowing where one started and the other ended. It did not matter either because they were together now. Just as it should be. Ian rolled over onto his back, pulling Sara with him. They closed their eyes content for the first time in who knows how long. Sara sighed, her head resting on his chest. The sound of his heartbeat lulled her to sleep.

Then the dream suddenly took a cruel turn. The warmth that had surrounded them was replaced with an icy chill. They were no longer on a bed but on cold, solid marbled floor. Sara's head still rested on Ian's chest, but she realized it no longer raised and fall as he breathe. She couldn't even hear the beating of his heart. A rush of dread coursed through her body as she lifted her head.

Sara started crying, tears streaming down her face. "No," she whispered. Ian's face was pale, cold, and lifeless. Blood from his mouth and nose flowed down, pooling onto the floor. "Ian!?" She called out, rigorously shaking his shoulders, hoping to coax him back to life. Through her tears, she noticed a large wound, centered on his chest. The wound reminder her of how Conchobar died. A sword through the chest.

Sara felt something tapping her shoulder. She turned only to be faced with the tip of a sword. She ran her eyes up the blade to see who was wielding it. Kenneth Irons. A smug smirk etched into his demonic face. Sara called out to the Witchblade but when she looked down to her wrist, it was gone. It had abandoned her. "Looking for this?" Kenneth said, showing her that the blade was on his wrist.

"Oh God," she whispered, still clutching on to Ian's dead body.

"Not quite my dear." Irons arrogantly replied. Sara reached for her side arm but found the holster empty.

"Why delay the inevitable, Sara? Don't you want to join your friends?" Kenneth motioned around the room. She then realized the other bodies that littered the floor. Gabriel, Natasha, Jake, and Faith. They were all there, dead. "No!" she screamed repeatedly.

"Good-bye, Sara." Irons swiped down with the Witchblade.

Sara bolted up, her arms flaying out, grabbing a hold onto the couch. She wiped away the sheen of sweat on her face with a shaky hand. Pushing aside wisps of hair that were matted to her forehead.

"Hey you okay?"

Sara looked up to see Tasha standing at the end of the couch. Familiar amber eyes stared back at her, full with concern. Before answering, Sara took a couple of deep breaths to calm her racing heartbeat. "I'm…fine." She exhaled, "I'm sorry if I woke you."

Natasha shook her head, "Actually, I was already awake. I just came down to make some tea. Would you like some? It might help." She suggested.

"I could go for some coffee instead."

"Sure thing. I'll get started on it." Natasha walked off towards the kitchen. After a few more minutes to regain her composure, Sara pushed the blanket aside and stood up a bit unsteadily. After another minute, she padded bare foot into the kitchen. She inhaled the welcoming scent of coffee then stared making her way over to the counter. Natasha stopped her and instructed her to sit down. "I got it, Sara."

After it was done Tasha poured a cup for Sara and handed it to her. She sat in the opposite side of the table, sipping her tea. Sara blew at the hot liquid and carefully took a sip of the coffee. "Better?" Natasha asked. Sara nodded her head in response. "Thanks, Natasha."

"Do you want to talk about it?"

Sara stared into her coffee unable to explain what her dream was about. Even she had a difficult time figuring it out. What did it all mean? Besides the obvious parts of it, of course. How could she tell Natasha that she was killed, along with everyone else she knew, in her dream? What role did this woman play in her life? They just met for crying out loud.

Then it left the open question, 'What happened?' What events had taken place to have lead everyone to his or her demise? Why had the blade abandon her for Kenneth Irons? The questions swirled in her mind, giving her a headache. Ultimately, Sara just shook her head no.

Natasha nodded her head and quickly changed the subject, "So, who's Ian?"

Sara's head snapped up, "What…why do you ask?"

"I heard you calling out his name earlier." Natasha smiled at Sara who was blushing.

"You…you heard me?" Sara asked wide-eyed and embarrassed. Self-consciously she looked over her shoulder over to Jake's closed bedroom.

Natasha laughed, "Don't worry about Jake. He's a pretty sound sleeper. I would take a lot to wake him up. Besides, you weren't that loud. You were just mumbling his name in your sleep. That's all."

Sara buried her flushed face into her hands, shaking her head. The memories of the dream were still very fresh in her mind. She still could feel his touch; taste him on her mouth, and the way his body moved with her. Sara could feel her cheeks getting much warmer.

"So, who is he? Boyfriend? Lover?" Natasha curiously watched as she sipped her tea.

"He's a….he's…. complicated."

"What's complicated? Either you like him or you don't."

"Come on partner stop fooling yourself already." Danny appeared, standing behind Natasha.

Sara sighed, "Ian is…he's," she paused remembering the dreams from last night and earlier, "He's someone I've grown to care for greatly." And that was all she said. Apparently, it was enough for both Danny and Natasha. Yet, both could tell there was more to just 'caring' but they weren't going to press the issue. Danny disappeared and Natasha changed the subject.

"Is that his ring?" Natasha motioned to the necklace.

"May I?" Sara nodded her head.

Natasha moved over to inspect the ring in her hand. "Its beautiful," letting her fingers run over the intricate design, "I've seen something like this before. My grandmother's older brother had worn a ring like this."

"What?"

"Yeah," Natasha started as if she was in some trance, "I've seen some of the pictures. I remember it because it had a blue stone just like this." She ran her finger over the stone. It swirled to the touch and captivated her attention. Sara recognized that dazed look in Natasha's eyes; she was in a vision. It did not take long before Natasha started blinking and shaking her head.

Sara curiously stared at Natasha waiting to see if she'd tell her what just happened. They didn't get the chance when Jake showed up still half asleep. "Morning guys," he yawned, "What's up?"

Sara and Natasha shared a knowing look but said nothing more to each other. "I better go change. Got a lot of errands I need to take care of." Tasha rushed off to her room.

"Yeah, well I'm going to change and get ready for work." Sara said. She grabbed her stuff and disappeared into the bathroom. Jake watched as both women left him standing alone in the kitchen.

~*~

Faith winced as she slip the ubiquitous gloves on. She flexed and curled her fingers stretching out the stiffness of the leather. Careful of her left hand, favoring it because of the gash across the palm. A wound inflicted up by Sara's partner, Jake. She picked up the bullet, rolling it around on her hand. If she had not been fast enough and caught the bullet who knows if she'd be alive right now. 

Faith placed the bullet into her coat pocket. Intending to return it to Agent McCarty. 'He shot at me,' Faith irritably reflected, 'That idiot shot at me.' Pushing the thought aside, Faith made her way out of the apartment. After a shower and a new set of clean clothes, Faith was ready to take on yet another day. She sat in her car and waited for the garage doors to open. While waiting, she stared at her gloved hands.

She loathed wearing the damn things. They were only reminders of what they represented.

…Always remember - the less emotional attachment you have, the less vulnerable you'll be. Isolation is safety…

Being a naïve child pining for a father's affection and acceptance, she had believed him then. Yet, as she grew older Faith understood. Control. It's always about control. Faith wrapped her hand tightly around the stirring wheel. Not only did they represent control, but also it brought back painful memories of what she was made to become. A lethal and loyal warrior. An extension of her father's dominating hand.

'No more,' Faith thought as she shook herself back to reality. 'Nope, not any more Father." She put the car into gear and drove off. Ready to face the new day.

~*~

"Don't move. Don't even breathe." Dr. Immo instructed as he inserts the needle near the outer corner of Irons' left eye. Nottingham stood behind Irons, complete abhorrence covered his face as he held his master's face between his hands. Slowly, Immo injected what little blood he was able to obtain from the washcloth into Irons. He pulls out the syringe the same time Nottingham releases his hold.

The serum started to work the moment they stepped back. The signs of aging took a reversal affect. Irons, no longer an old man, returned to his normal self. He rises from his chair and raises his arms, "Behold," he yells, "Time runs two ways."

Immo stands there amazed, "Ponce de Leon's own grail. I still can't believe it."

Irons walked over to Immo and grabbed his shoulders, "Believe!"

"Ian!" Irons walks over to the clone that had been standing near the spiral staircase, unimpressed by what had just transpired. Irons wrapped his arm around Nottingham's shoulders, "Though I was rather disappointed that you failed to bring me Sara Pezzini. I will give you another chance. Bring her to me," Irons paused then added, "Dead or alive."

A slow ominous smile formed on Nottingham's lips. He walked over to a table and picked up Dr. Immo's scalpel. This time he was more then willing to do his master's bidding. "Yes, master." He nodded and immediately left the room.

~*~

Despite Jake's protest of releasing their only witness, Sara escorted Charlene out of the precinct. She turned to the younger woman and said, "Look, you stay low, out of sight.  I may need you to come forward ..." Charlene pursed her lips, resolutely shaking her head, especially after the brief encounter with the cop that had killed Prospero. "No, I told you…."

"Look, I will only contact you when I can guarantee your safety. Otherwise, I will leave you alone. Do you believe me?" Searching the young woman's eyes.

Charlene sighed, "Yeah."

Sara moved in closer, and whispered, "Charlene, between you and me, that guy we encountered down in the holding cell, he was our killer, wasn't he?" Remembering the brief meeting with Orlinsky. Charlene hugged herself tightly and weakly nodded her head. Sara watched Charlene walk off before entering back into the precinct. Unaware that someone had been watching them from the second floor window.

Dante turned around to face one of his White Bull members. "Have you taken care of that Bowman problem yet?"

Burgess shook his head, "Not yet, Sir. But I'm on my way right now."

"Good, Orlinsky's got some other matters to attended to so take Dorfman with you. Get out of here." Burgess nodded his head and left.

Sara was walking back to her office when the news came in over the PA, "Available detectives, units reporting a dead body roll-out at 4711 Prospect Street." She stopped in dead in her tracks, recognizing the address. "Joe!" Sara turned around and rushed out of the building.

~*~

When she arrived on the scene a body was already being wheeled out. She jumped out of the car and started protesting, "Wait a minute, wait a minute. What the hell are you guys doing? You can't do that until the..." She trailed off when Orlinsky stepped out of the building.

"I got the case, Pezzini." He smugly informed her.

Her brows furrowed, "The call just came in."

Shrugging his shoulders he said, "Yeah, I know. I was in the neighborhood."

"What?"

"You don't want this one, Pezzini. You're too close. It's Joe Siri. People around you keep dying. Why is that?" Sara snarled at his insulting remark. He walked pass her and continued down the steps. Marie stepped out from the building, surrounded by concerning friends.

"Marie…" Sara called to the older woman but she was greeted with a cold stare. Marie turned her back on Sara and walked away from her. 

Sara walked down to the sidewalk and started to cry. She looked over to Orlinsky who gave her a smug smirk and turned his back to her. Leaning against her car Sara buried her face into her hands and started to cry. While she sobbed, the blade threw Sara a horrifying vision.

"Oh God, Gabriel!"

~*~

Knock. Knock. Knock. "Yeah, yeah I'm coming." Gabriel called out. He unlocked the door and swung it open. On the other side was a woman that could pass as Ian's sister. Gabe caught himself staring and mentally shook his head. "Let me guess I look like someone you know, right?" Natasha jokingly added. What is up with these weird people? "I'm sorry, didn't mean to stare and yes you do."

Natasha tossed aside the apology, "It's okay. I'm actually getting use to it."

"Huh? Um, who are you?"

She shook her head, "Anyway, I'm Natasha Marion. We spoke last night about the switched cell phones."

The pieces clicked and Gabe quickly ushered her into the apartment, "Oh, right. Um, please come in."

"Thanks," she said curiously staring at the number of strange objects displayed around the room. She moved closer to one of the shelves, examining what appeared to be a small head. Her eyes then wondered down to an intricate designed vase. She reached out to open the lid and see what was inside. Where those ashes?

"That's a, uh, pre-Columbian funeral urn with the remains of a thousand-year-old Mayan princess." She jumped at Gabe's voice. Not realizing that he was standing behind her.

Natasha turned around and eyed him curiously, "So, what exactly do you do with all this…stuff?"

Gabe grinned, "I sell'em off."

"People actually buy them?" He nodded his head. "I'll keep this place in mind if I need anything out of the ordinary and the truly bizarre as Christmas gifts." Gabe started to laugh.

"Anyway, here's Faith's phone. I still can't believe I had it this whole time." She handed Gabriel the phone. "Do you know when I can get mines back?"

"Actually, let me have your number and I'll give Faith a call right now." Gabe picked up his phone and started to dial when knockings at the door interrupted him. "Excuse me," he said and laid the phones down on top of the desk. Tasha sat down in the chair and waited.

Gabe unlocked the door and was surprised to see who it was. Immediately, he tried to shut the door but wasn't quick enough. The two men barged in. Burgess chased after Gabriel who started running towards the back of the shop. Natasha bolted up from her seat and scream as she watched a large man tackle Gabriel, sending the young man crashing through a display case.

Panic-stricken, Natasha didn't know what to do. Natasha ran, trying to escape but was stopped by another man. His gun aimed on her. "Where do you think you're going, sweetheart? Sit your ass back down and don't try anything." Natasha reluctantly obeyed and sat down. Nervously she watched as the large man started beating on Gabriel.

The other man who held the gun started addressing Gabriel, "What's the matter cupcake? Got a problem with authority?"

Burgess yanked Gabe up to his feet and held him captive in a half nelson. "What do you guys want?"

Ian had heard the loud crash and quickly walked over to the bedroom door. He listened in and tried to decipher what was happening. Apparently, two of Dante's men were ordered to pay a visit to Gabriel. He didn't know why but things weren't sounding good. He was also aware that there was another person in the room. A woman, from what he could hear.

Armed with only the blades in the soles of his boots, Ian needed to find another way to regain control of the situation without compromising both Gabriel's and the woman's life. Quickly he donned on his shirt and exited the room through the fire escape. Instead of going down, Ian made his way up the stairs onto the roof. He would have to enter the apartment through the front door.

"Maybe this little lady might know something, hm?" Dorfman aimed his gun on Natasha who was trembling in her seat, tears streaming down her face. "Hey man, she doesn't know anything. Just let her go, man. Let her go!" Gabe yelled but winced as Burgess tightens his hold on him.

"Sorry kid, can't do that. We've got our orders." Dorfman said his gun still aimed on Natasha. Gabriel slipped from Burgess' arms as the burly man eased his hold on him. Gabriel rushed towards Dorfman but did not get far, as he was yanked back by the collar of his shirt. Burgess grabbed him and bounced his head off the door. "Nice try sparky, but not good enough."

Gabe's body slid to the floor in a crumpled heap. His head was spinning due to the blow, and blood was trickling down from his mouth. Dorfman shoved Natasha over to where Gabriel was. Burgess pulled out his gun and screwed on a silencer to the barrel. "Well it was fun, but its time to say good-bye." He lowered his gun and aimed at them. Natasha cowered over Gabe's body.

Dorfman took a few steps back and bumped into something. Before he was able to turn around, a hand appeared out of now where and twisted his head to the side, snapping his neck. Ian grabbed the gun before the body had a chance to fall to the ground. He fired twice into Burgess' back.

Tasha and Gabe jumped at the sound of gunshots. When they realized that there weren't dead, both sat up to see what happened. Surprised because both men were on the floor, dead.

"Are you all right, Gabriel?" Ian asked.

Gabe carefully stood up, holding onto his side, "Yeah, I'm fine."

Gabe reached down to help Natasha off the floor. Her eyes were still glued onto the two bodies. "And what about you, miss?" It was only then that Natasha registered Ian's presence. She looked up into familiar eyes. "Oh my God, its you." Natasha whispered, staggering backwards against the wall.

Gabe stared between the two unsure what was going on. Ian was obviously just as confused about Natasha's unexpected behavior. "Uh, what now Ian?" Tearing his eyes away from the woman Ian said, "It is not safe here. We need to move." That is when he spotted Faith's cell phone on top the desk. He picked it up and dialed a few numbers.

Faith sat in her car when the GPS mounted on the dashboard started to beep. She picked it up and stared at the screen. She recognized the blinking red dot. It was the tracer planted in…her phone. 'Impossible,' she thought. The location was all wrong. She fished out the cell from her pocket and closely examined it. This wasn't hers. 'Shit!' She started the car and sped through the streets back to Gabriel's apartment.

"I'm not going anywhere with you guys!" Natasha protested, her back pressed against the wall, arms out in defense. The situation had finally hit her. She was in a room with two dead guys, and two guys she knew nothing about. All she had wanted was her damn cell phone back. "We should call the cops."

"Can't do that." Gabe said, gently wipe blood from his mouth.

"Why not? I have a friend who's a cop. He'd help us."

"The police won't help." Faith said upon entering the apartment. She eyed the bodies sprawled on out on the floor. Concerned she walked over to Gabriel and pressed her palm against his uninjured face. "Are you all right, Angel?" Seeing how beaten up he looked. He nodded his head, "I'll live." Faith weakly smiled willing the tears away that threaten to fall. She wouldn't let her mind dwell on the 'what if'. Instead, be thankful that Ian was here.

"We need to leave. Angel, I want you to pack what you need for a few days." Gabe nodded and disappeared into his bedroom.

Natasha was shaking her head, "Wait a minute, wait a minute. First I am not going anywhere with you people. Secondly, why can't we call the cops? It was only in self-defense. I'm sure they will understand. Just let me call my friend."

"You can't do that Natasha," Faith walked over to one of the bodies, fished out their badge, and showed it to Natasha, "Because they were cops also."

"Oh my God," she gasp, her eyes widen with panic. She stared down at the two bodies. Cops? Dead cops? She ran a shaky hand through her hair. "This can't be happening. Why would two cops come here and try to kill us?" Just as the words slips, her panic-stricken eyes looked at the people in the room. "Who the fuck are you people?" She started inching herself away from Faith and Ian. Her eyes wondered around the apartment looking for an exit. Wishing that she had her cell phone so she could call Jake. What the hell did she get herself into?

Faith held her hands up, her voice was calm as she spoke, "I can't get into details but these men were dirty cops. They were sent to kill Gabriel and they were going to kill you too if Ian here didn't stop them." Tasha continued to move away from them not really listening to her. All she wanted to do was run as fast and as far as she could from these people.

"I know you're terrified but you have to understand if you don't come with us your life will be in danger. These men were a part of a very large organization of corrupt police officers. They will kill you if they find you."

"But I had nothing to do with this!" She finally stopped and yelled at Faith.

"It doesn't matter. They will kill you just because you were in the wrong place at the wrong time."

"How will I know you won't kill me?"

"You'd think I'd go through this much trouble to convince you otherwise? I came to your rescue once remember? You'll just have to trust me. I swear nothing will happen to you if you come with us." Faith could tell her words were being considered. Faith slowly neared closer and offered her hand. She made no other move afraid that any sudden movements might scare Natasha off.

Gabe re-emerged from the bedroom with both a duffle bag and the medical bag. He tossed Ian his coat and walked around the bodies. "So, where are we going, Faith?"

"Somewhere safe," she said not taking her eyes of Natasha.

Tasha nodded her head and placed her hand in Faith's. "Okay then. Let's get out of here."

"Faith?" Ian called.

"It's the silver Jag parked in front. Gabe, take Natasha down with you."

Ian waited until they left before he started speaking. "Why did she have your phone?" He asked handing it back to her. "It must have been mixed up while at the airport."

"Who is she?" He finally asked.

"I don't know. I was hoping you could tell me."

"What makes you think I know anything about her? I've never met up until now."

Faith shook her head, "I don't know what I'm thinking. It's just the resemblance is so strong. I just figured she'd be your…." She stopped herself from saying anything else.

"My what?"

"Forget it, Ian. We do not have time to discuss this right now. We have to go." Ian agreed this wasn't the time. Nevertheless, Natasha's startled words when she first looked at him bothered Ian. What did she mean, 'It's you?' he wondered. Without another word, both headed for the exit.

Minutes later Sara pulled up next to the building, got of the car, and rushed in. As she neared the apartment door, she drew out gun. She tested the knob, and it gave way. The door slowly swung open and Sara cautiously stepped in. Quietly she maneuvered around the apartment. Her heart nearly sank when she spotted a body lying on the floor. She could not tell who it was but all she could do was pray it wasn't Gabriel.

She walked further and spotted another body on the floor only a few feet from the first one. As she approached closer, she was able to recognize who they were, Dorfman and Burgess. Panic crept up her spine and Sara yelled out, "Gabriel!" She called out again but there was no answer.

"He's not here, Sara." Danny appeared standing on the other sides of the bodies.

"Oh God, Danny." Sara thought the worst and tears started to well in her eyes.

"He's alive, Pez. He's just not…here." Danny emphasized, spreading out his hands.

"Then where is he, Danny?"

Danny thought for a minute then said, "Trust me, he's safe." Danny's face quickly changed from the tranquil façade into a look of worry. "You on the other hand, are not. You have to get out Sara! Go now!"

"What?" She hadn't heard that much fear in Danny's voice in a long time. Trepidation engulfed her senses as the blade flared crimson on her wrist. "Hello Sa-ra." She whirled around and aimed her gun at Nottingham. "My master needs you."

"Screw your master." A soft click echoed in the room as she cocked the hammer back on her gun.

Nottingham only laughed at her retort, not the least bit phased by the gun she held. The silver scalpel he held tightly in his hand caught Sara's attention. He stood between her and the front door. Sara's hearts started racing. Where else could she go?

"Sara?" Danny called from the bedroom. She turned her head and noticed Danny standing near the window. A window that lead out to the fire escape. Sara started shooting at Nottingham but was shocked when he caught and dodged most of her bullets. She continued firing, keeping Nottingham at bay while she hurried into the bedroom. She swiftly shut and locked the door.

She rushed to the window, clumsily dropping her firearm while working to open the window. Finally open, she bent to pick up her gun when Nottingham burst through the door. Leaving her gun behind Sara quickly crawled out to fire escape and hurriedly climbed down. Nottingham didn't follow her but turned around and headed the opposite direction.

Sara jumped down the last few steps and ran for her car. She skidded to a halt when Nottingham appeared in front of her. Sara whirled around and ran the other way. Nottingham followed close behind, enjoying the cat and mouse game. As Sara neared the end of the alley, she noticed that wooding fencing blocked her way. It was too tall for her to climb.

She turned around and watched as Nottingham casually walked towards her. Her chest heaving up and down from all that running. Sara was unarmed. Her gun was up in Gabe's apartment, lying on the bedroom floor, and the blade remained lifeless on her wrist. How could she possibly defend herself against a clone assassin with psychotic tendencies?

The answer came sailing through the air and landed gracefully in front of Sara. "Faith? I thought you were dead?"

"Why Detective, I didn't know you cared. I'm truly touched." Faith said over her shoulder.

"How…"

"Not now, Sara. Go on get out of here. I'll hold scar face back while you escape."

"But…" Sara started to protest.

"GO!" Faith yelled, cutting Sara off. 

"You again. I owe you one, bitch." Nottingham said, pointing the scalpel at Faith. His other hand tracing over the right side of his face.

Faith grinned, "Come on, scar face." A jagged blade jutted out from beneath her coat sleeve. "I'll give you a matching one on the other side of your face." Half teasing and half threatening.

Sara ran to the end of the alley and spotted a dumpster settled into the corner. She hopped on top but stopped to watch Faith in a deadly dance with Nottingham. This was truly the first time she was able to witness Faith's fighting extent and Sara was in awe at how skillful she really was.

"PETZINI! You're under arrest!" Dante shouted from Gabe's bedroom window. "McCarty get her!" Sara turned to see Jake at the other end of the alley running after her, with his gun drawn. "Jake?" she could not believe what she was seeing. Dante stepped out onto the fire escape and started shooting. The blade came to life and deflected some of the bullets. She hopped up and hurriedly climbed over the fence. Jake immediately turned around and ran the other way. Running down another alley, hoping to catch up with Sara.

The fight between Faith and Nottingham quickly ceased as both ran from the alley. Nottingham burst through a side door of the building and Faith hopped over the fence, following Sara. Dante called in for back up and disappeared back inside Gabe's apartment.

~*~

Sara ran as fast as her legs would take her. She turned down another alley and then another. She looked behind her and when she didn't see anyone following her, she slowed down. Out of breath and tired, Sara leaned against the wall, taking a breather. Her heart was racing a mile a minute. After a few deep breaths, Sara pushed herself from the wall and walked down the alley.

Her heart dropped when Jake appeared at the end of the alley. Breathless he called to her, "Sara this way out." Waving her over to him.

"I wouldn't, Sara." Faith appeared at the other end of the alley. Sara looked between the two. She was stuck right in the middle. Faith continued, "He's a White Bull. Recruited by Dante himself. He's been setting you up for some time now."

"She's lying, Sara. She doesn't know what she's talking about. Besides, who is she anyway, huh? We don't know anything about her. You gonna listen to her?" Jake said while slowly making his way closer.

"I'm the one that gave you the tape of your father." That caught Sara's attention. "What?"

"Months ago, under orders, Ian stole it from a box of effects Captain Siri left you. But he wanted me to return it to you when you needed it most, against orders." Sara shook her head; she couldn't believe what she was hearing.

"What's she talking about?" Jake asked.

"Sara, I saved your life, twice. I am the one person you can trust."

Danny appeared behind Faith. Sara pleaded with him to help. He motions his head towards Faith. Silently telling Sara that she should trust this woman. "All right, I have to roll the dice on someone." Sara looked between Faith and Jake. "So I'm gonna roll them on you...Faith."

"What?!" Jake yelled. Sara was making a mistake. Frustrated, Jake drew his weapon and fired five times at Faith.

Faith whirls around and disappears around the corner. Sara looks at Jake in disbelief. Suddenly a side door opens and a guy exits out with a handful of garbage bags. Sara bolts for the door and runs inside.

"Sara!"

"McCarty?!" Jake turns around, Dante and a few other White Bull members came running down the alley. "Where'd she go?"

Jake shrugs his shoulders, "I lost her, Cap. But I think went that way." Pointing in another direction.

"All right split up. Half go that way, the rest come with me. Let's go McCarty." Jake taking up the rear.

~*~