Title: Phoenix Risings: Necro-Gate
Rating: PG-13/R
Chapter Number: 2
Author: White Werewolf
Category: Buffy/Xander, Eric/Faith, Sam/Daniel (Maybe), Gabrielle/Joxer
Spoilers/Timeframe: All I know for sure it is after "Becoming Part 2."
Disclaimer: I don't own anything but the ideas and my computer.
Summery: After Buffy leaves Sunnydale, Xander decides to go looking for her. On the other side of the universe, Ninedinna wants the book she created...the Necronomicon Ex Mortis: the Book of the Dead.
Author Notes: This part is just a prologue to the Phoenix Risings Trilogy; which is in turn the starting fic to a huge series. This is the third part of the trilogy. It will be mainly focused on the Buffy/Xander relationship and it will be housing many crossovers.
Special Thanks: Danii, Tenhawk, Teri, Silent Bob Foley, and X-Lander
Crossovers Planned:
Buffy: the Vampire Slayer
Hercules: the Legendary Journeys
Evil Dead
Stargate SG-1
Xena: Warrior Princess
Boy Meets World
Cameo Crossovers will suddenly appear. Take a read, and see if you can spot one.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Her childe asked in confusion, "Would you rather be called Ma'am or Callisto?"
Callisto smiled, "I prefer the name, Callisto, Ryan. Few people can call me that and live."
He grinned, "Oh I do, Callsto. I do.
With that said, the two headed for the stargate. When they did, the blond said, "Show me how to get back to Earth."
Her childe nodded, "But of course, Callisto."
The blond said with a malevolent grin, "Show me, childe. Show me."
Ryan dialed the DHD and hit the activation symbol. After the wormhole settled, he punched in his GDO code.
"Callisto, I should warn you that we will be entering a secure military base."
"I know, childe, just do as I say." Callisto then gave the soldier several instructions.
The two then walked into the shimmering event horizon and vanished.
***
"Unscheduled off-world activation!"
Red lights flashed and alarm klaxons sounded throughout the base.
The doors to the main computer room opened, and in walked a well-dressed man of command. General Hammond immediately rushed to the Gate Control Room and said, "Close the iris."
Sgt. Davis nodded, "Yes, Sir." Soon, he did the aforementioned action, and the iris closed.
When satisfied, Davis looked back at the computer, "Sir, it's SG-25."
General Hammond smiled, "Open the iris, and welcome them home."
The iris opened, and the wormhole established. A few seconds passed when two people walked through the stargate.
Hammond's eyes widened. He saw only a single member of SG-25 appear with a strange woman. He immediately turned around and ran down the stairs. As soon as he entered the gate room, he walked over to the two people.
Recognizing one as Ryan Banks. "What happened, Lieutenant? Where's the rest of your team?"
Ryan said, "There was an ambush, General Hammond. The goa'uld appeared out of nowhere. The others didn't make it. I was lucky to get out when I did."
He nodded slowly and looked to the person standing next to him, "And who is this young lady, Lieutenant?"
The woman smiled weakly, "My name is Caroline. Lieutenant Banks rescued me I could be made a host."
The general nodded, "Report to the infirmary. A nurse will help you. Doctor Fraiser is away visiting family. Debriefing will be in the debriefing room in one hour." He turned to Caroline. After you are cleared by the nurse, we'll see what we can do about your accommodations."
Callisto nodded, "Thank you, General."
"Escort Ms. Caroline to the infirmary, Lieutenant."
"Right away, General Hammond." Ryan said to his officer.
***
The two walked down the corridor and Callisto took the time to notice all the improvements since she was last on the Earth
"This place is quite impressive." Caroline said to Ryan.
Ryan nodded, "The SGC has been running for a few years, Ma'am. It all began with SG-1 ..."
With that, Ryan told her the history of SGC. About General George Hammond, Colonel Jonathan "Jack" O'Neill, Captain Samantha "Sam" Carter, Dr. Daniel Jackson, and Teal'c.
When Lt. Ryan explained about how Teal'c had rebelled against Apophis and grasped her interest. A former Jaffa who worked for Apophis now worked for the SGC, a smile crossed her lips. (Looks like Xena wasn't the only one to reform.)
"Remember what we have planned, Ryan? As soon as we get to the infirmary, I'll get rid of the personnel, and then you take me topside. You should be able to get through no problem. If anyone questions our motives, just get that person look at me."
A smile crossed his lips, "Of course, Callisto. Of course."
As soon as they turned the corner, Callisto wondered, (Now, that I'm back on Earth, I wonder if Hercules is still around.)
As soon as they turned the corner, Callisto wondered, (Now, that I'm back on Earth, I wonder if Hercules is still around.)
The two entered the infirmary to notice a short redhead with green eyes. "Ah, Lt. Banks. And I assume this is Caroline, please sit down on the stretcher here and I'll start your examination."
Ryan said, "Thank you, Nurse Hall." He said as he sat down in front of her.
The nurse smiled weakly, "I'm sorry about your team, Lieutenant. They were fine people. Some of the best the SGC had to offer."
He grinned, "Thank you. They will be missed."
The nurse suddenly jerked back her head, and could feel her body getting cold, and soon became limp.
"Blood type AB. A personal favorite of mine." Callisto said to her childe.
He pouted, "Why didn't you save any for me?"
Callisto smiled, "I just wanted to get out of here as soon as we could. I want to check on something. And sooner the better. Would you like to come along?"
Ryan said with a wide smile, "Of course I would." He walked to the door that led to the hallway. When it was clear, he glanced back to his sire and smiled, "Coast is clear. Follow me."
She nodded, "Right behind you."
With that said, the two walked down the hallway and headed for the elevator.
Callisto's nose suddenly picked up and odor. "Kiss me."
Ryan showed a confused look, "What?"
She shook her head, "No time to argue." The blond woman grabbed her childe in her arms, lowered her face and kissed him.
Ryan stiffened in awe. But soon felt a slap on the back, "Way to go, Lieutenant."
Banks realized who the voice was coming from and understood Callisto's actions.
Shortly she let go of her childe and smiled, "Nice lip action."
Ryan smiled, "Thanks."
She said, "C'mon, let's go."
He nodded, and pushed the button for the elevator.
It soon opened to reveal Daniel Jackson.
"Ryan. On you're way home?"
He nodded, "Yes, Sir. But I'm taking Caroline to her guest quarters first."
Daniel chuckled, "Call me Daniel. I'll see you tomorrow." He then headed down the hallway. Inwardly he thought, (Uh huh. Something seems off.)
"This place is busy, isn't it?"
Banks nodded, "This is a top secret military base, Caroline. We're almost there."
The two entered the elevator, and Ryan pressed the button to the service. The doors closed shortly leaving sire and childe alone.
The elevator stopped at the eleventh floor and opened. "We have to switch elevators before going to the surface."
They left the elevator, and entered the other one. When the doors closed, they continued their conversation.
Ryan said to her, "This is going easier then I hoped."
Callisto said, "Nothing is easy. Something's going to happen. I know it."
The door open when they reach the service.
"Stay right where you." A man said emerged from a group of ten people. He was rather tall and lanky. His brown hair shifted in the wind with his blue eyes glaring at the two people. He aimed his MP5 at them. "General Hammond says you two are not permitted to leave the premises."
Ryan smiled, "What are you going to do, Colonel Hummings? Shoot us if we don't follow your directions?"
Colonel Leonard Hummings said, "If I have to. My orders are to bring you down to the SGC alive."
Callisto's chide laughed, "That's a problem right there, Lenny. We're already dead."
Callisto sighed, "Ryan, Ryan, Ryan. We don't need bloodshed, although I'd love to have some action. Watch this."
She approached the said Colonel, and with her eyes narrowing, "General Hammond said we could go."
Leonard nodded and dropped his MP5 to his side, "My mistake, Ms. Caroline." He turned to his group. "Allow them to pass."
"But General Hammond said not to." One of them said.
Callisto smiled, "I don't know about you. But I wouldn't want to cross your supervising officer. It wouldn't be looked upon that well."
"But Colonel?" the same man asked.
Without breaking her gaze from Leonard, she said, "Colonel, it appears that your men aren't following orders."
He nodded, "Lt. Brown. Allow them to pass. That is a direct order, Lt. I'd follow it if I were you."
"But Sir?" asked another man.
"I outrank you. Follow my orders."
Sighing, they said, "Yes, Colonel."
Colonel Hummings's team parted allowing Callisto and Ryan to pass. They entered Ryan's car and drove away.
***
"Hi, Danielle. Is Anne done for the day?"
Danielle nodded, "She's about done, Xander. I'll tell her you're here. Take a seat."
He walked over to a booth and sat down.
It had been a few days since Buffy found him. The two spent a lot of time together, just hanging around. It seemed like they were back in Sunnydale, but different at the same time.
In Sunnydale, him, Buffy, Willow, Oz, Cordelia, and Giles formed the now current Scooby Gang.
But in LA, it was a different group. Buffy, Faith, Ash, Wesley, and him formed a different team. They didn't have the supernatural powers that the Scoobies had. Buffy and Faith were the only ones with powers, but that didn't matter. It seemed like Buffy was able to work well with people without powers. It had something to do with Charles Gunn, but that was fine with him.
This Buffy he's been hanging with has been a lot different. She wasn't the same Buffy he knew from Sunnydale. This Buffy paid more attention to him, seemed to acknowledge him more. Why, he didn't know. But this Buffy was stronger and more confident. She was also more of a team person. Not like the Buffy in Sunnydale.
Buffy became his hero these past few weeks, and she would always stay to be if she continued to improve this way. He couldn't help but fall more in love with her. Xander couldn't wait until the two of them got together. But like he promised, he'd give her space. Allow her the time for her to be ready.
"Hi, Xand."
He looked up to see a smiling Buffy. "Hi, Anne."
She sat down across from him, "Thanks for meeting here. I wanted to ask you something. Something that's been going on in my head a week now."
He nodded, "You know you can tell me anything."
Buffy grinned, "I know I can."
"So what do you want to ask me?"
His friend said, "I know you want to help me in my patrolling, and I love you for that. And I know you have your army knowledge in your mind still, and I want to take advantage of that."
"Uh huh."
"I want to train you, Xander. I want you to become a better fighter. So when we get back to Sunnydale, I'm going to tell Giles to help you train. I want all my friends to train. That's you, Wills, Oz, and Cordy."
He grinned, "I'd like that, Buff. But do you really think Cordelia would want to train? I don't know if she'd be the type to do that. I just don't see her wanting to learn."
She nodded, "I understand. Cordy doesn't strike me as the training type. How about Wills and Oz?"
The boy answered, "Oz might want to train, and I think Willow would give it a shot, but I don't see her continuing it. She's more of the researcher and recently magical person."
"Yeah." She took a breath, and then asked, "so you want to learn how to fight?"
Her friend nodded, "Definitely. I'd love to kick more demon ass. And spending time with the Buffster is always a plus."
Buffy blushed, "And I love spending time with my Xander."
Xander showed a confused look, "I'm your Xander? What makes you think you can own me?"
The Slayer smiled, "I just mean I know that you're my best friend, and I love you for that. I know you're always there, and I know you're always willing to help. Like I said, you're my best friend, you're my Xander."
He said, "And I guess that makes you my Buffy."
"Definitely, Xander. You're my Xander, and I'm your Buffy. Nothing is going to change that."
"Just remember that the next time we face an apocalypse. That way, I know if my life was in danger, I'd know you'd come to rescue me."
She smiled, "Yeah, I would. Anyway, it takes too long to break in a new best friend."
"Hardy har har, Buff."
Changing the subject, she asked, "I hate to stop this, Xander. But what's this next problem we have to face?"
***
Changing the subject, she asked, "I hate to stop this, Xander. But what's this next problem we have to face?"
He asked innocently, "You don't want to spend any more time with me?"
She swatted his arm, "Of course I do, Xan. I just want to know our timeframe, that's all."
Xander nodded slowly, "Uh huh. Well, we could see Lorne. He might know something."
Buffy sighed, "Every time you need information, you go to see Lorne. I mean, we have Willy back in Sunnydale, but we don't go to him all the time."
He agreed, "True. But we don't have to threaten Lorne with his life. He gives the information for free."
She smiled, "I have to agree with you there. But since it's getting late, why don't we go back to the cabin and split up patrol routes. Tomorrow we can bother Lorne, tonight I just want to patrol."
He grinned as he got out of his seat. Offering his hand, Xander said, "C'mon, Anne. Let's get out of here."
Buffy accepted his hand and got out of the booth. "Yeah, I need to get out of here anyway."
With that said, the two friends left with Xander saying as soon as he got out of the door, "How long you going to keep this Anne thing going?"
***
"I'm home, Uncle Ash!"
Ash flipped off the television seeing his niece coming through the door. "Have a nice time with Eric?"
She grinned, "Yeah, it was cool."
He noticed the smile on her lips, "You two been getting along together great. Do I detect a future relationship happening?"
She shook her head, "Fuck no!"
Her uncle chuckled, "That's not what I seem to remember. You couldn't speak the first time you met him."
Faith glared at him, "Well, excuse me if I found him attractive!"
Ash flashed a lopsided grin, "So you admit you like him?"
Shaking her head, she stammered, "What? No! Yes! No! I dunno."
He grinned, "This kid obviously has you twisted inside out, Kiddo."
Faith sighed, "X told me things about making sure if I really want to get involved with a guy."
Ash asked slowly, "He did, did he?"
She nodded, "He did, Uncle Ash. He told me I had to make sure that Eric had to be the right guy. I don't want him to know about my slayer half when he isn't with me."
The former promised said, "I understand, Faith. Knowing about what goes bump in the night is never easy."
Saying that, he saw his niece downcast her glance at the ground, "But if you really wanted to, you could train him in order for him to get better chances to survive."
The Slayer smiled weakly, "I know I could train him. But I don't know if I'm ready for dating yet. B's been a slayer longer and she's still not ready to date."
Ash said calmly, "Faith, Kiddo. Buffy tried the dating thing before and fell in love with Angel. That guy lost his soul and went on a killing spree. Buffy's heart is broken and needs this time to heal. Xander knows all this, and that's why he ran after her. He wanted to make sure she was safe."
Realizing what he was saying, Ash said, "We're getting off topic here. What you have to do is make sure you want to let Eric in on your nightjob. You have to make sure that he won't abandon you or hurt you by cheating on you."
Faith said, "I know, I know. I have a lot to think about."
"Hi, Honey, I'm home!"
Ash and Faith saw the door open to reveal a smiling Xander with Buffy standing behind him.
Faith grinned, "Hi, Ricky. Would you please put me in your show tonight?"
Xander chuckled, "Lucy, Lucy, Lucy. How many times do we have to go over this? No, you can't perform in the show tonight."
Buffy walked passed him, "Alright Ricardos, can we go over the patrol routes for tonight? Because if we don't, I could always call Gunn in, and we'd be already out on patrol."
Ash smiled, "Who's Gunn?"
"Someone mentioned me?"
Buffy turned around immediately and said in a wide smile, "Hey, Gunn. What you doing here?"
Wesley came in from beside him. "I remember you talking about a Charles Gunn with me the other day. So, I took the liberty to locate him. Thought he'd could help us in some patrols."
Buffy said, "Gunn has a team of people who fight vampires."
Xander smiled, "Cool."
His love continued, "We met while I was patrolling. Charles Gunn, this is my best friend, Xander Harris. Next to him is another slayer named Faith Williams. Behind her is her uncle, Ashley Williams. And you already know Wesley Wyndam-Pryce."
Gunn chuckled, "You're name is Ashley?"
He got out of his seat, "Listen Gunn. Don't mess with the name. You don't want to make me angry."
Buffy whispered to Gunn, "I wouldn't push it, Gunn. This guy is tough."
He knew when not to cross anyone. "Sorry, man. Didn't mean anything by it."
Ash took a breath, "Forget about it, Gunn."
"Good. Wes told me about you in the car. So, what are the patrol teams?"
Wesley grinned, "I suggest that Buffy and Xander be one team. I shall be with Faith, and you, Gunn should be with Ash."
"Cool." Gunn said, "So does this mean we can go break some skulls?"
Ash grinned, "I think I'm going to like this guy."
Wesley stated, "Alright, alright. The time is now 10:00. We shall patrol and meet back here at midnight. Discuss what happened tonight, and then we'll settle in for the night."
"Groovy." Ash said with a grin.
Faith went to the nightstand and grabbed her weapon. She attached it to her belt. "I fucking can't wait to see how this baby works on vamps."
Buffy pouted, "You got that for a weapon? All I got is a stake."
The former promised one looked at her, "What happened to the knife I sold you?"
She replied, "I only use it for sharpening stakes. It's the best way to keep them nice and pointy."
Xander chuckled, "Now I know why Kendra called it Mr. Pointy."
Buffy looked up at him, "What would you've called it?"
He shrugged, "Bob?"
Faith smiled, "That seems like something you would say. Enough small talk, I want to kick some demon ass."
Ash walked over to his mantle that was above his fireplace and grabbed his chainsaw. "I'm read when you are."
Gunn's eyes widened, "You got a chainsaw?"
He grinned, "Yep. Buzz, here comes in real handy for these type of missions."
Xander nodded, "I can vouch for that."
Wesley sighed, "Children, if you please. Can we go?"
Buffy giggled, "Party pooper."
Her friend said in surprise, "Party pooper, Buff?"
She grinned, "You get the idea, Xan. So, I guess we better get going."
The Watcher smiled, "Precisely."
***
"Wes told me what happened to you, Man. I gotta say, you been put through some tough shit."
Ash grinned as the two walked down a street in Los Angeles. "You have no idea, Gunn. That damn book really fucked up my life."
He nodded, "Yeah, it is. Life can be a bitch, but you got to remember the people you have in your life. That makes life worth living."
The former promised one said, "Yep. I lost a few people, but then I soon met Xander. Soon after him, I met a ton of people, and I must say it feels good."
The self-appointed male slayer stated, "Buffy and Xander really changed our lives in LA, huh?"
"You better believe it, Kid. When all this is said and done, Faith and I got to move to Sunnydale."
He showed a confused look, "Sunnydale?"
The S-Mart employee said, "That's where the Hellmouth is. Its vampire central, and I don't want Faith to do this alone. I went through this shit before, and it can change a person. Wes, Faith, Xander, Buffy, and I'll head there before the summer ends."
"That's cool, Ash. I got my own thing here in LA going. My crew have been fighting vamps for years now and we're getting better. My sister keeps me going."
"Family is extremely important, Gunn."
"You have no idea." A voice said as someone appeared out of the darkness.
Ash sighed as he revved up his chainsaw, "You read for this?"
Gunn withdrew his stake from his sleeve and gave it a twirl, "You better believe it."
Ash grinned as three move vampires came from the darkness making the total four, "Come get some."
***
"I assume you've been practicing, Faith?"
She grinned as she patted her chackram, "Sure have, Wes. Gotta admit, this chackram Kevin gave me kicks major ass."
Her watcher nodded, "I agree. It should handle well against the undead. And I must say, your fighting skills has improved."
Faith said, "Well, when B found X. it meant that she was ready to fight again. And according to what we figure, I'd should be at close to top slayer capacity."
"You certainly are correct. It appears that Mr. Harris knew what he was talking about."
Faith grinned, "Call him Xander, Wes. We went through that already."
The Englishman nodded, "That we did."
Saying that, the two turned the corner to see a young woman being forced to the ground.
"As X would say, 'It's clobbering time!'"
Wesley sighed, "He never says that."
Faith said as she launched herself at the attacker, "You obviously don't know about Xander's love of comics."
***
"Throw me a stake, Buff!"
Buffy nodded as she somersaulted over a vampire's back and landed on her feet. She grabbed the loose weapon and tossed it to her friend, "Here you go, Xan."
He said with a slight smile, "Thanks, B."
She shook her head as she used her free arm and staked the vampire that she just somersaulted over. "One down."
"Make that two." Xander said as he staked his opponent.
Buffy looked up in front of her, "Five more left."
Buffy and Xander walked toward each other and flipped around. Touching backs, they circled around getting ready to fight the remaining vampires.
"You take the boy." One of the vampires said. "I want the Slayer."
Buffy sighed, "Everybody wants me."
Xander asked, "What's not to want, Buff? I'd kill to get a chance to hang with you."
"Shut up." The vampire said as he leaped toward Buffy.
"Duck." Buffy said.
Xander nodded in agreement, "Right." He did just that, and the vampire leaped over him and landed on his face.
The boy sprang into the air and landed onto the vampire-straddling him. Staking him, he said, "That's the way the vampire crumbles."
He dusted himself off and looked toward Buffy. "How many left?"
She staked two of them and said, "Two more."
"Make that one more." Another voice said as he came out of the darkness.
TBC
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rating: PG-13/R
Chapter Number: 2
Author: White Werewolf
Category: Buffy/Xander, Eric/Faith, Sam/Daniel (Maybe), Gabrielle/Joxer
Spoilers/Timeframe: All I know for sure it is after "Becoming Part 2."
Disclaimer: I don't own anything but the ideas and my computer.
Summery: After Buffy leaves Sunnydale, Xander decides to go looking for her. On the other side of the universe, Ninedinna wants the book she created...the Necronomicon Ex Mortis: the Book of the Dead.
Author Notes: This part is just a prologue to the Phoenix Risings Trilogy; which is in turn the starting fic to a huge series. This is the third part of the trilogy. It will be mainly focused on the Buffy/Xander relationship and it will be housing many crossovers.
Special Thanks: Danii, Tenhawk, Teri, Silent Bob Foley, and X-Lander
Crossovers Planned:
Buffy: the Vampire Slayer
Hercules: the Legendary Journeys
Evil Dead
Stargate SG-1
Xena: Warrior Princess
Boy Meets World
Cameo Crossovers will suddenly appear. Take a read, and see if you can spot one.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Her childe asked in confusion, "Would you rather be called Ma'am or Callisto?"
Callisto smiled, "I prefer the name, Callisto, Ryan. Few people can call me that and live."
He grinned, "Oh I do, Callsto. I do.
With that said, the two headed for the stargate. When they did, the blond said, "Show me how to get back to Earth."
Her childe nodded, "But of course, Callisto."
The blond said with a malevolent grin, "Show me, childe. Show me."
Ryan dialed the DHD and hit the activation symbol. After the wormhole settled, he punched in his GDO code.
"Callisto, I should warn you that we will be entering a secure military base."
"I know, childe, just do as I say." Callisto then gave the soldier several instructions.
The two then walked into the shimmering event horizon and vanished.
***
"Unscheduled off-world activation!"
Red lights flashed and alarm klaxons sounded throughout the base.
The doors to the main computer room opened, and in walked a well-dressed man of command. General Hammond immediately rushed to the Gate Control Room and said, "Close the iris."
Sgt. Davis nodded, "Yes, Sir." Soon, he did the aforementioned action, and the iris closed.
When satisfied, Davis looked back at the computer, "Sir, it's SG-25."
General Hammond smiled, "Open the iris, and welcome them home."
The iris opened, and the wormhole established. A few seconds passed when two people walked through the stargate.
Hammond's eyes widened. He saw only a single member of SG-25 appear with a strange woman. He immediately turned around and ran down the stairs. As soon as he entered the gate room, he walked over to the two people.
Recognizing one as Ryan Banks. "What happened, Lieutenant? Where's the rest of your team?"
Ryan said, "There was an ambush, General Hammond. The goa'uld appeared out of nowhere. The others didn't make it. I was lucky to get out when I did."
He nodded slowly and looked to the person standing next to him, "And who is this young lady, Lieutenant?"
The woman smiled weakly, "My name is Caroline. Lieutenant Banks rescued me I could be made a host."
The general nodded, "Report to the infirmary. A nurse will help you. Doctor Fraiser is away visiting family. Debriefing will be in the debriefing room in one hour." He turned to Caroline. After you are cleared by the nurse, we'll see what we can do about your accommodations."
Callisto nodded, "Thank you, General."
"Escort Ms. Caroline to the infirmary, Lieutenant."
"Right away, General Hammond." Ryan said to his officer.
***
The two walked down the corridor and Callisto took the time to notice all the improvements since she was last on the Earth
"This place is quite impressive." Caroline said to Ryan.
Ryan nodded, "The SGC has been running for a few years, Ma'am. It all began with SG-1 ..."
With that, Ryan told her the history of SGC. About General George Hammond, Colonel Jonathan "Jack" O'Neill, Captain Samantha "Sam" Carter, Dr. Daniel Jackson, and Teal'c.
When Lt. Ryan explained about how Teal'c had rebelled against Apophis and grasped her interest. A former Jaffa who worked for Apophis now worked for the SGC, a smile crossed her lips. (Looks like Xena wasn't the only one to reform.)
"Remember what we have planned, Ryan? As soon as we get to the infirmary, I'll get rid of the personnel, and then you take me topside. You should be able to get through no problem. If anyone questions our motives, just get that person look at me."
A smile crossed his lips, "Of course, Callisto. Of course."
As soon as they turned the corner, Callisto wondered, (Now, that I'm back on Earth, I wonder if Hercules is still around.)
As soon as they turned the corner, Callisto wondered, (Now, that I'm back on Earth, I wonder if Hercules is still around.)
The two entered the infirmary to notice a short redhead with green eyes. "Ah, Lt. Banks. And I assume this is Caroline, please sit down on the stretcher here and I'll start your examination."
Ryan said, "Thank you, Nurse Hall." He said as he sat down in front of her.
The nurse smiled weakly, "I'm sorry about your team, Lieutenant. They were fine people. Some of the best the SGC had to offer."
He grinned, "Thank you. They will be missed."
The nurse suddenly jerked back her head, and could feel her body getting cold, and soon became limp.
"Blood type AB. A personal favorite of mine." Callisto said to her childe.
He pouted, "Why didn't you save any for me?"
Callisto smiled, "I just wanted to get out of here as soon as we could. I want to check on something. And sooner the better. Would you like to come along?"
Ryan said with a wide smile, "Of course I would." He walked to the door that led to the hallway. When it was clear, he glanced back to his sire and smiled, "Coast is clear. Follow me."
She nodded, "Right behind you."
With that said, the two walked down the hallway and headed for the elevator.
Callisto's nose suddenly picked up and odor. "Kiss me."
Ryan showed a confused look, "What?"
She shook her head, "No time to argue." The blond woman grabbed her childe in her arms, lowered her face and kissed him.
Ryan stiffened in awe. But soon felt a slap on the back, "Way to go, Lieutenant."
Banks realized who the voice was coming from and understood Callisto's actions.
Shortly she let go of her childe and smiled, "Nice lip action."
Ryan smiled, "Thanks."
She said, "C'mon, let's go."
He nodded, and pushed the button for the elevator.
It soon opened to reveal Daniel Jackson.
"Ryan. On you're way home?"
He nodded, "Yes, Sir. But I'm taking Caroline to her guest quarters first."
Daniel chuckled, "Call me Daniel. I'll see you tomorrow." He then headed down the hallway. Inwardly he thought, (Uh huh. Something seems off.)
"This place is busy, isn't it?"
Banks nodded, "This is a top secret military base, Caroline. We're almost there."
The two entered the elevator, and Ryan pressed the button to the service. The doors closed shortly leaving sire and childe alone.
The elevator stopped at the eleventh floor and opened. "We have to switch elevators before going to the surface."
They left the elevator, and entered the other one. When the doors closed, they continued their conversation.
Ryan said to her, "This is going easier then I hoped."
Callisto said, "Nothing is easy. Something's going to happen. I know it."
The door open when they reach the service.
"Stay right where you." A man said emerged from a group of ten people. He was rather tall and lanky. His brown hair shifted in the wind with his blue eyes glaring at the two people. He aimed his MP5 at them. "General Hammond says you two are not permitted to leave the premises."
Ryan smiled, "What are you going to do, Colonel Hummings? Shoot us if we don't follow your directions?"
Colonel Leonard Hummings said, "If I have to. My orders are to bring you down to the SGC alive."
Callisto's chide laughed, "That's a problem right there, Lenny. We're already dead."
Callisto sighed, "Ryan, Ryan, Ryan. We don't need bloodshed, although I'd love to have some action. Watch this."
She approached the said Colonel, and with her eyes narrowing, "General Hammond said we could go."
Leonard nodded and dropped his MP5 to his side, "My mistake, Ms. Caroline." He turned to his group. "Allow them to pass."
"But General Hammond said not to." One of them said.
Callisto smiled, "I don't know about you. But I wouldn't want to cross your supervising officer. It wouldn't be looked upon that well."
"But Colonel?" the same man asked.
Without breaking her gaze from Leonard, she said, "Colonel, it appears that your men aren't following orders."
He nodded, "Lt. Brown. Allow them to pass. That is a direct order, Lt. I'd follow it if I were you."
"But Sir?" asked another man.
"I outrank you. Follow my orders."
Sighing, they said, "Yes, Colonel."
Colonel Hummings's team parted allowing Callisto and Ryan to pass. They entered Ryan's car and drove away.
***
"Hi, Danielle. Is Anne done for the day?"
Danielle nodded, "She's about done, Xander. I'll tell her you're here. Take a seat."
He walked over to a booth and sat down.
It had been a few days since Buffy found him. The two spent a lot of time together, just hanging around. It seemed like they were back in Sunnydale, but different at the same time.
In Sunnydale, him, Buffy, Willow, Oz, Cordelia, and Giles formed the now current Scooby Gang.
But in LA, it was a different group. Buffy, Faith, Ash, Wesley, and him formed a different team. They didn't have the supernatural powers that the Scoobies had. Buffy and Faith were the only ones with powers, but that didn't matter. It seemed like Buffy was able to work well with people without powers. It had something to do with Charles Gunn, but that was fine with him.
This Buffy he's been hanging with has been a lot different. She wasn't the same Buffy he knew from Sunnydale. This Buffy paid more attention to him, seemed to acknowledge him more. Why, he didn't know. But this Buffy was stronger and more confident. She was also more of a team person. Not like the Buffy in Sunnydale.
Buffy became his hero these past few weeks, and she would always stay to be if she continued to improve this way. He couldn't help but fall more in love with her. Xander couldn't wait until the two of them got together. But like he promised, he'd give her space. Allow her the time for her to be ready.
"Hi, Xand."
He looked up to see a smiling Buffy. "Hi, Anne."
She sat down across from him, "Thanks for meeting here. I wanted to ask you something. Something that's been going on in my head a week now."
He nodded, "You know you can tell me anything."
Buffy grinned, "I know I can."
"So what do you want to ask me?"
His friend said, "I know you want to help me in my patrolling, and I love you for that. And I know you have your army knowledge in your mind still, and I want to take advantage of that."
"Uh huh."
"I want to train you, Xander. I want you to become a better fighter. So when we get back to Sunnydale, I'm going to tell Giles to help you train. I want all my friends to train. That's you, Wills, Oz, and Cordy."
He grinned, "I'd like that, Buff. But do you really think Cordelia would want to train? I don't know if she'd be the type to do that. I just don't see her wanting to learn."
She nodded, "I understand. Cordy doesn't strike me as the training type. How about Wills and Oz?"
The boy answered, "Oz might want to train, and I think Willow would give it a shot, but I don't see her continuing it. She's more of the researcher and recently magical person."
"Yeah." She took a breath, and then asked, "so you want to learn how to fight?"
Her friend nodded, "Definitely. I'd love to kick more demon ass. And spending time with the Buffster is always a plus."
Buffy blushed, "And I love spending time with my Xander."
Xander showed a confused look, "I'm your Xander? What makes you think you can own me?"
The Slayer smiled, "I just mean I know that you're my best friend, and I love you for that. I know you're always there, and I know you're always willing to help. Like I said, you're my best friend, you're my Xander."
He said, "And I guess that makes you my Buffy."
"Definitely, Xander. You're my Xander, and I'm your Buffy. Nothing is going to change that."
"Just remember that the next time we face an apocalypse. That way, I know if my life was in danger, I'd know you'd come to rescue me."
She smiled, "Yeah, I would. Anyway, it takes too long to break in a new best friend."
"Hardy har har, Buff."
Changing the subject, she asked, "I hate to stop this, Xander. But what's this next problem we have to face?"
***
Changing the subject, she asked, "I hate to stop this, Xander. But what's this next problem we have to face?"
He asked innocently, "You don't want to spend any more time with me?"
She swatted his arm, "Of course I do, Xan. I just want to know our timeframe, that's all."
Xander nodded slowly, "Uh huh. Well, we could see Lorne. He might know something."
Buffy sighed, "Every time you need information, you go to see Lorne. I mean, we have Willy back in Sunnydale, but we don't go to him all the time."
He agreed, "True. But we don't have to threaten Lorne with his life. He gives the information for free."
She smiled, "I have to agree with you there. But since it's getting late, why don't we go back to the cabin and split up patrol routes. Tomorrow we can bother Lorne, tonight I just want to patrol."
He grinned as he got out of his seat. Offering his hand, Xander said, "C'mon, Anne. Let's get out of here."
Buffy accepted his hand and got out of the booth. "Yeah, I need to get out of here anyway."
With that said, the two friends left with Xander saying as soon as he got out of the door, "How long you going to keep this Anne thing going?"
***
"I'm home, Uncle Ash!"
Ash flipped off the television seeing his niece coming through the door. "Have a nice time with Eric?"
She grinned, "Yeah, it was cool."
He noticed the smile on her lips, "You two been getting along together great. Do I detect a future relationship happening?"
She shook her head, "Fuck no!"
Her uncle chuckled, "That's not what I seem to remember. You couldn't speak the first time you met him."
Faith glared at him, "Well, excuse me if I found him attractive!"
Ash flashed a lopsided grin, "So you admit you like him?"
Shaking her head, she stammered, "What? No! Yes! No! I dunno."
He grinned, "This kid obviously has you twisted inside out, Kiddo."
Faith sighed, "X told me things about making sure if I really want to get involved with a guy."
Ash asked slowly, "He did, did he?"
She nodded, "He did, Uncle Ash. He told me I had to make sure that Eric had to be the right guy. I don't want him to know about my slayer half when he isn't with me."
The former promised said, "I understand, Faith. Knowing about what goes bump in the night is never easy."
Saying that, he saw his niece downcast her glance at the ground, "But if you really wanted to, you could train him in order for him to get better chances to survive."
The Slayer smiled weakly, "I know I could train him. But I don't know if I'm ready for dating yet. B's been a slayer longer and she's still not ready to date."
Ash said calmly, "Faith, Kiddo. Buffy tried the dating thing before and fell in love with Angel. That guy lost his soul and went on a killing spree. Buffy's heart is broken and needs this time to heal. Xander knows all this, and that's why he ran after her. He wanted to make sure she was safe."
Realizing what he was saying, Ash said, "We're getting off topic here. What you have to do is make sure you want to let Eric in on your nightjob. You have to make sure that he won't abandon you or hurt you by cheating on you."
Faith said, "I know, I know. I have a lot to think about."
"Hi, Honey, I'm home!"
Ash and Faith saw the door open to reveal a smiling Xander with Buffy standing behind him.
Faith grinned, "Hi, Ricky. Would you please put me in your show tonight?"
Xander chuckled, "Lucy, Lucy, Lucy. How many times do we have to go over this? No, you can't perform in the show tonight."
Buffy walked passed him, "Alright Ricardos, can we go over the patrol routes for tonight? Because if we don't, I could always call Gunn in, and we'd be already out on patrol."
Ash smiled, "Who's Gunn?"
"Someone mentioned me?"
Buffy turned around immediately and said in a wide smile, "Hey, Gunn. What you doing here?"
Wesley came in from beside him. "I remember you talking about a Charles Gunn with me the other day. So, I took the liberty to locate him. Thought he'd could help us in some patrols."
Buffy said, "Gunn has a team of people who fight vampires."
Xander smiled, "Cool."
His love continued, "We met while I was patrolling. Charles Gunn, this is my best friend, Xander Harris. Next to him is another slayer named Faith Williams. Behind her is her uncle, Ashley Williams. And you already know Wesley Wyndam-Pryce."
Gunn chuckled, "You're name is Ashley?"
He got out of his seat, "Listen Gunn. Don't mess with the name. You don't want to make me angry."
Buffy whispered to Gunn, "I wouldn't push it, Gunn. This guy is tough."
He knew when not to cross anyone. "Sorry, man. Didn't mean anything by it."
Ash took a breath, "Forget about it, Gunn."
"Good. Wes told me about you in the car. So, what are the patrol teams?"
Wesley grinned, "I suggest that Buffy and Xander be one team. I shall be with Faith, and you, Gunn should be with Ash."
"Cool." Gunn said, "So does this mean we can go break some skulls?"
Ash grinned, "I think I'm going to like this guy."
Wesley stated, "Alright, alright. The time is now 10:00. We shall patrol and meet back here at midnight. Discuss what happened tonight, and then we'll settle in for the night."
"Groovy." Ash said with a grin.
Faith went to the nightstand and grabbed her weapon. She attached it to her belt. "I fucking can't wait to see how this baby works on vamps."
Buffy pouted, "You got that for a weapon? All I got is a stake."
The former promised one looked at her, "What happened to the knife I sold you?"
She replied, "I only use it for sharpening stakes. It's the best way to keep them nice and pointy."
Xander chuckled, "Now I know why Kendra called it Mr. Pointy."
Buffy looked up at him, "What would you've called it?"
He shrugged, "Bob?"
Faith smiled, "That seems like something you would say. Enough small talk, I want to kick some demon ass."
Ash walked over to his mantle that was above his fireplace and grabbed his chainsaw. "I'm read when you are."
Gunn's eyes widened, "You got a chainsaw?"
He grinned, "Yep. Buzz, here comes in real handy for these type of missions."
Xander nodded, "I can vouch for that."
Wesley sighed, "Children, if you please. Can we go?"
Buffy giggled, "Party pooper."
Her friend said in surprise, "Party pooper, Buff?"
She grinned, "You get the idea, Xan. So, I guess we better get going."
The Watcher smiled, "Precisely."
***
"Wes told me what happened to you, Man. I gotta say, you been put through some tough shit."
Ash grinned as the two walked down a street in Los Angeles. "You have no idea, Gunn. That damn book really fucked up my life."
He nodded, "Yeah, it is. Life can be a bitch, but you got to remember the people you have in your life. That makes life worth living."
The former promised one said, "Yep. I lost a few people, but then I soon met Xander. Soon after him, I met a ton of people, and I must say it feels good."
The self-appointed male slayer stated, "Buffy and Xander really changed our lives in LA, huh?"
"You better believe it, Kid. When all this is said and done, Faith and I got to move to Sunnydale."
He showed a confused look, "Sunnydale?"
The S-Mart employee said, "That's where the Hellmouth is. Its vampire central, and I don't want Faith to do this alone. I went through this shit before, and it can change a person. Wes, Faith, Xander, Buffy, and I'll head there before the summer ends."
"That's cool, Ash. I got my own thing here in LA going. My crew have been fighting vamps for years now and we're getting better. My sister keeps me going."
"Family is extremely important, Gunn."
"You have no idea." A voice said as someone appeared out of the darkness.
Ash sighed as he revved up his chainsaw, "You read for this?"
Gunn withdrew his stake from his sleeve and gave it a twirl, "You better believe it."
Ash grinned as three move vampires came from the darkness making the total four, "Come get some."
***
"I assume you've been practicing, Faith?"
She grinned as she patted her chackram, "Sure have, Wes. Gotta admit, this chackram Kevin gave me kicks major ass."
Her watcher nodded, "I agree. It should handle well against the undead. And I must say, your fighting skills has improved."
Faith said, "Well, when B found X. it meant that she was ready to fight again. And according to what we figure, I'd should be at close to top slayer capacity."
"You certainly are correct. It appears that Mr. Harris knew what he was talking about."
Faith grinned, "Call him Xander, Wes. We went through that already."
The Englishman nodded, "That we did."
Saying that, the two turned the corner to see a young woman being forced to the ground.
"As X would say, 'It's clobbering time!'"
Wesley sighed, "He never says that."
Faith said as she launched herself at the attacker, "You obviously don't know about Xander's love of comics."
***
"Throw me a stake, Buff!"
Buffy nodded as she somersaulted over a vampire's back and landed on her feet. She grabbed the loose weapon and tossed it to her friend, "Here you go, Xan."
He said with a slight smile, "Thanks, B."
She shook her head as she used her free arm and staked the vampire that she just somersaulted over. "One down."
"Make that two." Xander said as he staked his opponent.
Buffy looked up in front of her, "Five more left."
Buffy and Xander walked toward each other and flipped around. Touching backs, they circled around getting ready to fight the remaining vampires.
"You take the boy." One of the vampires said. "I want the Slayer."
Buffy sighed, "Everybody wants me."
Xander asked, "What's not to want, Buff? I'd kill to get a chance to hang with you."
"Shut up." The vampire said as he leaped toward Buffy.
"Duck." Buffy said.
Xander nodded in agreement, "Right." He did just that, and the vampire leaped over him and landed on his face.
The boy sprang into the air and landed onto the vampire-straddling him. Staking him, he said, "That's the way the vampire crumbles."
He dusted himself off and looked toward Buffy. "How many left?"
She staked two of them and said, "Two more."
"Make that one more." Another voice said as he came out of the darkness.
TBC
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