Disclaimer:
Nope, still not mine. Joss's and ME's. Hope they don't mind me playing
with them. I'll give them all back at the end...although maybe they wouldn't
notice if I just kept one?
Summary: Spike gets a present. Angel gets peace of mind and Giles gets a surprise.
Author's Note: Firstly, thanks for the kind reviews and comments, they keep me on the ball and motivated. Although I have the story virtually complete as far as plot is concerned I'm always happy when someone gets me thinking about it in a slightly different way - it usually results in some amendments. In answer to one particular query: no not slash, I wanted to keep it fairly innocent and I would have had the grace to warn you in the story summary (not that I have anything against m/m or f/f relationships). Finally the stories are unbeta'd so if you spot errors I'm really grateful when you let me know. Cheers. xxx
Chapter 6
Surprise
A few days later Spike had telephoned Angel. His memory seemed to be returning but in a haphazard way. He sounded ok but Angel could feel his distress. He continued to probe until Spike admitted that the nightmares had started again.
"I'm sorry Spike. I wish there was something I could do to help."
"Yeah, I know. How do you cope with it?"
"You know me. Brood a bit. Fight the good fight. I don't know really, just after a hundred years you get used to it, I guess."
"I don't have a hundred years."
Angel felt an icy grip around his heart.
"What do you mean? You have all the time in the world ahead of you. There's nothing wrong is there? You're ok?"
"Hey, Peaches. Less of the panic, yeah? I'm just saying that I need to be out there and at the top of my game. I have people depending on me."
"Are they sending you out to fight already? Are you sure you're fit enough?"
"Won't know until I try."
"Just try not to put yourself in too much danger."
Spike snorted.
"What?"
"They won't let me sodding fight!"
Angel couldn't help grinning, the younger vampire sounded so outraged.
"No? What happened?"
"A group of slayers were going to clear out a nest of vamps, I thought I could go along and help out, you know? Keep my hand in?"
"Uh huh. Seems a bit too soon to me. You must only just have got back on your feet."
"I was fine and you know how I get. Sort of restless and antsy."
"So you bullied them into letting you go?"
"Yeah. I was looking forward to it as well, a good fight...I mean doing good and if I happen to get in a spot of violence before bedtime...well you know how it is."
"So what happened?"
"They formed a bloody honour guard, surrounded me and killed anything that came within six feet of me!"
Angle tried to smother a laugh.
"And it is not sodding funny! Every time I went for a vamp one of the bloody bint's got in my way and got them first."
"Hey I'm sorry." Angel commiserated sounding anything but sorry. They shouldn't have let him go in the first place.
"Yeah well, all I could do was light up a fag and watch their style, or I would have, if they'd had any. If these are the best I can understand why they need me."
"So is that what you're doing? Training slayers?"
"Yeah."
He sounded uncertain, as though he wanted approval.
"You're right they're going to need someone like you. You'll make a real difference."
"You think?"
"Yes, I do. Anyway, is there somewhere I can reach you if I need y...to get in touch?"
Spike hesitated.
"They're not keen on me giving out details of their operations. If you need to get hold of me Wes will be able to reach me."
"Oh."
"How are things there? Are you all right? Are the gang ok?"
"We're all fine. You know...not as it was, but we're ok. I...we all miss you."
"We'll have to meet up. Once I'm a bit more settled."
"OK. Thanks for calling and if you need anything..."
"Yeah, I know. Anyway, see you around."
"Uh huh and better luck with your next fighting thing."
Another disgruntled snort and he was gone.
Letting him out to fight this early with only untrained slayers protecting him. Sheer stupidity. He tested the bond again and could feel a slight directional tug to it. He was on a mission; he was going to find his childe.
Spike hung up the phone. He'd finally remembered what that damned noise was. The exchange of blood had resulted in Angel and himself bonding again. The whining/bitter noise/taste had been his interpretation of his sire's misery. He was glad he'd made the call. That awful feeling of despair had receded to something slightly more tolerable.
***
Spike threw himself into the training of slayers with unexpected gusto. In the past Giles had always assumed that any good deeds on Spike part were always linked to an attempt to seduce Buffy, yet there was no such motivation here. Now that he no longer had to hover protectively over the children Giles was slowly discovering that he was beginning to like the English vampire.
It had all begun one night when he had heard noises from Spike's basement room. It almost sounded like whimpering. After some consideration he had decided to check on Spike. To find him asleep and within the throes of some tormented nightmare. He'd been hesitant about waking the vampire for fear that he might, under some stimulus from the dream, attempt to attack him. He'd compromised and kept his distance whilst sharply calling for him to wake up. Spike had awoken with a start and instead of attacking had leapt from the bed and cowered in a corner of the room.
Giles had looked on in astonishment, whilst Spike gradually became aware of who was there.
"Oh. Its you."
He'd immediately begun to cover up, attack always being the best form of defence with Spike.
"What are you doing here, in my room, in the middle of the night? If you want to get your hands on this hot, tight body you have to give a man a clue first, not just burst in on him."
"Spike."
"I mean its just not cricket, is it?" He rambled as he wrapped himself back in the bedclothes.
"I always had my suspicions about you. Public school being what it is."
"Spike!"
"Yeah?"
"What's the matter?"
"What do you care?"
"If it affects my slayers, I care. If this is happening to you every night you're not going to be fit to care for them."
Spike melted back into his pillows.
"I know. Don't know what to do though."
Giles sat on the foot of the bed.
"I think you should begin by telling me what's happening."
"Did Wesley tell you why they removed my memories to start with?"
"Yes. Oh. I see. The people you killed...your victims..."
"Yeah."
"Does this only happen at night?"
"Sort of. During the day I can push them to one side. I can't let them interfere with the work I'm doing."
"Maybe you need to remember them when you're awake."
"I don't think so! Bad enough when I'm trying to sleep."
"Spike..."
"Giles. When you have murdered innocents then may be I'll take your advice."
"I have."
"Really? Who? Why?"
"You remember Ben?"
"How could I forget. 'Ben is Glory, Glory is Ben". I said those words so frigging often, one day they'll cut open my head and find those words burnt on to my brain."
"Glory was defeated and Ben was lying there on the tower. I had to remove any possibility of her coming back, so I killed him."
"That was different. You had no choice."
"I felt I had no choice but he was still innocent."
"Not that innocent, he chose himself over the Bit. Still, I suppose that gives you the right. Go on, tell me again what your advice would be."
"It's just that everyone dies, from the moment we're born we owe nature a death. In the end there is nothing the living can do for the dead but remember them as truthfully and as faithfully as possible."
"Go on."
"Some of your victims were killed so long ago, there is nobody left to remember. Only you. So stop denying them. They were more than victims. They were people. You must remember more about them than how you tortured them and how they screamed...some clue as to who they were, what sort of people they were?"
Spike slowly nodded.
"The blood gives up secrets as you drink, you get some images, sometimes just feelings..."
"Really? So when these thoughts intrude on you during the day, don't shut them out. Let them come. Give them their due and remember them as people."
"You want me to sit and brood every day?"
"Yes, I see your point. But Angel has had a long time to come to terms with what he has done. You're not stupid, learn from him."
"I am not going to brood! I'll just have some quiet thinking time each day."
"Exactly."
"Never thought I'd be thanking you for anything."
"Don't worry, you haven't."
Spike brightened.
"No I haven't, have I? Cheers Rupes."
Giles let out a genuinely amused smile.
"Go to sleep Spike."
"Uh huh. G'night."
"I'll see you and your hot, tight body tomorrow."
"Rupert!"
***
Life at Wolfram and Hart continued. As Angel had said it wasn't quite the same as before. Previously they had been hopeful that they were taking on evil from the belly of the beast. Now it appeared they weren't even giving the beast indigestion. They realised this might be a fight they could lose because it was becoming so damned tricky to tell right from wrong.
Part of Wesley thought, 'power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely" and Angel's treatment of Spike seemed evidence of this. But another part thought maybe Angel had been doing the right thing. The place wasn't the same without the bleached one's wicked sense of humour, constant chat and occasional insight.
Gunn was having his own problems. His memory implant was definitely slipping. He was still managing but if it got any worse he'd be unable to cover up any longer. The information he had access to had helped hundreds of people, surely he had the duty to protect this gift? He wasn't sure. He didn't know. He liked who he was now, he liked being smart and he knew this warped his judgement.
Fred had become nervous around Angel, which was hardly surprising. He had always been a hero to her. He still was. Just not as dependable and trustworthy as she had once thought. She missed Spike, they had been friends and despite his volatility he had been a surprisingly steadying influence on them all, with his well-timed comments and ability to see things as they were. Personally she thought Spike's decision was wrong. Angel had explained it to them. There were two main reasons he refused to return: Spike thought that he had a bad effect on Angel and; he needed a purpose, which they were unable to provide.
The fact that Spike refused to work for Wolfram and Hart had hit them all. It threw their own decision to take up employment there in stark relief. That was something that Fred could not fix, but she truly believed that Spike was wrong about his effect on Angel. Their CEO seemed so lost these days. Even when they had only sniped at each other constantly, Spike had brought balance, he questioned Angel if he was overlooking something or in danger of doing something stupid. Not so much 'questioned' but called him a 'stupid wanker' and go storming out. Alternatively, he would confirm a decision, more likely than not picking up the heaviest axe he could find and asking them what they were waiting for.
Without this, Angel seemed more uncertain. Nothing was ever black and white anymore. The only thing that was good at the moment was her relationship with Wesley. She had the sense to make sure that Knox was in no doubt that there was nothing between them and now it was simply a matter of letting Wesley know exactly how she felt. She thought she had but, honestly, men could be remarkably dense sometimes. Even clever ones like Wesley.
Angel tried to keep focused and do a good job but he found that he envied Spike his simplicity of purpose. Train slayers and send them out into the world to fight evil. No grey areas there.
After his conversation with Spike he'd done a bit of shopping. He could understand Giles and his team not wanting to give out addresses or phone numbers but there was no way they could keep him from having contact with his childe. He knew Spike's love of gadgets and actually did some research before hitting the mall. The things he did for his childe, even Cordy had never been able to get him to use one, never mind understand what they did. Now he was the proud owner of a neat little phone, with camera, flash, messaging and WAP facilities. Not only that, he was also reading up on how to use all the functions. Now all he had to do was remember to keep it charged and to carry it with him wherever he went. He neatly wrapped the other phone and asked Wesley to make sure Spike got it.
***
Spike received the gift with some surprise and a little trepidation. The only presents he'd ever received were from his Dark Princess and he'd learnt pretty quickly that he had better be damned careful when opening them. She had been particularly attracted to religious objects and icons. He'd literally had his fingers burnt more times than enough.
It was wrapped in brown paper and had a simple 'To Spike' written in Angel's flowing handwriting. He realised that Giles was curious but he didn't feel like sharing this moment. This was the first present his Sire had ever given him and he wanted to enjoy it in privacy. So he nodded at Giles and took it to his room.
He held it for a while and tested the weight. He held it to his face and sniffed it. He gave it a careful shake and it gave forth some satisfactory rattles. Then he carefully peeled back the sellotape until the paper came free in one sheet. He didn't even glance at the present; instead he stared at the brown paper bearing his name, folded it and put it neatly to one side. Then he turned back to the box and took in his gift. All semblance of patience and calm were gone as he tore into the box.
Giles listened outside the door, just to make sure that there was nothing untoward about the gift. He had to assume that all was well after hearing, "Whoa! Fantastic!" Floating up from the room. He sounded like a kid. A really happy kid. Giles moved away to allow him to enjoy the moment without an eavesdropper.
Spike gave the instructions a cursory once over and then rang the number already input into the phone's memory. It only rang once before it was answered.
"Hi Spike."
Angel sounded so pleased with himself it made Spike laugh.
"Hey there."
"You like?"
"Oh yeah. I like. I've sent you a gift."
"Yeah?"
"On your phone. Take a look."
"Just a minute."
There was the sound of someone tapping away, a few bleeps and then the line went dead. Angel finally managed to retrieve a couple of photos. One was of Spike grinning like a loon. Another was obviously his room. He rang back.
"Uh, sorry about that. How come I've studied this thing all morning and still haven't got the hang of it and you've had it..."
"About three minutes."
"Three minutes and got it singing and dancing?"
"You'd be surprised at the things I can do, Pet."
"Not anymore."
"You've finally accepted I'm a complete genius, then?"
"If you want to believe that, who am I to disillusion you? You're looking good by the way."
"Yeah, back to my normal stunning self now."
"Of all your qualities its your modesty that overwhelms me the most."
"Knocks you out, does it?"
"No... that was Fred and her tranq gun."
"Really! Good on her! Good girl that. Taught her everything thing she knows."
"Except for the logarithms, fractal equations and algorithms."
"I meant taught her all the important stuff. Sneaky attacks and what knocks out fat, angry vamps."
"I'm not fat. I used to be out fighting every night when I worked at Angel Investigations. That sort of lifestyle soon piles on the muscle. And hey! You told her how to knock me out?"
"Well... your soul has always been rather pesky. Thought the kid should know how to defend herself. Didn't hurt you did it?"
"It made me...talkative."
"You being chatty? I'm surprised they didn't drop down dead from the shock of it."
"Yeah. Anyway, thank you. You know, for looking out for them."
"Don't let them know. But I like them."
"Too late, think they already know."
"Huh. What do you think of my digs?"
"They look a bit...dingy."
"You're talking to a person who's main place of abode used be a crypt, luv. Just because you're living the life of bloody Riley with your necro- tempered glass, swanky office, well appointed apartment, some truly stunning cars...uh...what was my point again? Oh yeah, this is luxury to some of us."
"I could get some of that glass put in if you want?"
"I don't think Giles would be keen if I started to make this place vampire friendly. Anyway, it always makes me a bit uneasy."
"I know what you mean, it's unnatural."
"If you're not keen why don't you get rid of it?"
"I kind of thought it was cool. Makes a statement."
"Yeah it says, 'here's a complacent vampire who's going to make a mistake one day and fry himself'."
"No chance of that. Every time I step in front of it I flinch in anticipation."
"Hmmm. I have a basement room, with one small high window. It wouldn't make that much difference here anyway/"
"Yeah, I see it." Angel said looking at the photo again.
"What's that thing in the corner?"
"An X-box."
"I say again, what's that thing in the corner?"
"Bloody hell, Angel. It's a games console, its part of my rehabilitation, helps with my fingers and co-ordination. You need to keep up with the world more."
"I can use a mobile phone!"
Spike smiled gently.
"Yeah, you're doing well, Pet."
"Call me if there's anything. I'll always have it with me."
"I will. And thank you. It's nice. You know...getting gifts."
"Come back. I'll buy you presents every day."
"Subtle, Peaches, very subtle. I'll see you around."
"Yeah. Are you patrolling tonight?"
"That's the plan."
"Oh well. Good luck."
"Yeah. Bye then."
"Bye, Spike."
Angel was feeling very pleased with himself. Spike might sound cool but he knew that he'd been delighted with the present. He looked at the picture of Spike grinning out at him and said, "See you tonight then Spike."
***
Spike began working with a small group of slayers with Andrew and Giles as onlookers.
"I watched you the first night we went out. Well done. You got the job done. But on the whole you were crap. You're relying mainly on your speed, strength and instincts. All of which are important and makes you equivalent to the average fledge. Luckily that's what you were dealing with the other night."
They listened to him in respectful silence. It was unnerving, he was used to verbally sparring with the Scoobies and found that he missed it. Never mind, he had to think of this more as a vampire society, he was in charge and they obeyed.
"By the time I'm done you'll be up to master vampire level. Right we'll have some names. I'm Spike and this is Erica and Chris. He pointed at the two who had been involved in his 'rescue'. Let's hear from the rest of you. Blondie, you start."
For the first time he allowed a group of strangers to name themselves instead of giving them nicknames that allowed him to distance himself from them.
He nodded at each of them. He had given some careful thought to how he was going to structure these classes.
"Ok. We're going to start every morning with Tai Chi. It strengthens your musculature, improves your breathing, your posture, your balance and your blood flow. It also helps with your concentration. I don't expect you to learn it all in a few weeks but we will add more positions everyday."
After the first class Giles approached him.
"I never dreamt you knew Tai Chi. It doesn't really seem your style."
"Nah, it's not. It's the poof, he went in for all that tranquillity lark. Thought it might be a good way to start, get their blood flowing a little, then move on to some proper fighting skills and finally something like yoga, stretch their muscle and ligaments, improve their flexibility after all the hard exercise."
"Really, I am surprised. In fact I would even say I'm impressed."
"What did you think I was going to do? Have them chop through planks of woods with their heads?"
"Yes."
"I was saving that for the next lesson."
***
Angel went out as soon as he was dark, walking the streets and focusing on his blood link to Spike. He could feel it constantly but unless he was fairly close to the other vampire it wasn't strong enough to be able to place him. Finally he felt it, a very definite tug. He felt like howling with joy. He took off down the street. Yes, there it was again. He took to the rooftops to prevent anyone spotting him.
He could just make out the strange little group. Spike, Giles and half a dozen teenaged girls. Angel finally relaxed for the first time since Spike had disappeared. He followed them carefully. Spike was talking. He seemed to be sending Giles and four of the slayers on ahead, whilst he and the other two girls ducked into a side alley. Looked like they had the building and were going for a two-pronged attack and covering both exits. Sound enough. He moved closer in case he was needed.
He froze, someone was threatening Spike with a knife, he scented the air. Human. He tensed up ready to fly in and help. One of the slayers had the same idea and had moved in for what could have been a killing blow had Spike not caught her hand. The sudden movement startled the man and he pressed the knife into Spike's stomach, there was a faint scent of blood before Spike quickly managed to knock it away. The man made a run for it. He'd probably never meant to use the knife. One of the slayers started to run after him but before she could even blink she found an angry Spike standing in front of her. He was seething and Angel wouldn't like to be in her shoes when this was finished.
Spike knocked the padlock off the back door and flung it open noisily. That must have been the sign for the others to burst through the front. The vampires inside were outnumbered and the fight was short and sharp with Spike mainly watching and stepping in when he was needed. Angel could see what he'd meant about their style. No wonder most slayers had such a short life expectancy if this was the general standard when they started.
"Are you alright, Spike?" Giles asked, noticing the flowering bloodstain.
"We got attacked out the back." Explained one of the girls who had been with Spike.
"I'm fine but me and the girls are going to have a little talk."
"Please, don't mind me." Giles said, curious as to the nature of this talk.
Spike nodded and gestured for the girls to gather around.
"Firstly. You do not hit humans. You are not vigilantes, you are not hooligans and you are not a bloody mob. You are slayers, you kill monsters. The police are there to deal with men like him."
"But he held a knife to you!" Said the girl who had attempted hit the man.
"Do you think a knife would harm me or did you think I wouldn't be able to disarm him harmlessly by myself. Hell even one of you could manage that. What makes you think I couldn't?"
"I'm sorry." The girl hung your head.
"Look. It's for your own good. You kill things every day, that's what you're trained for, are you suddenly going to remember to reign in your strength just because it's a human you're dealing with? The rule is you don't hit them unless you absolutely have to. I'm not seeing any of my slayers go bad cus they accidentally kill a human."
"Are we your slayers then?" asked a dark haired slayer with a slight grin.
"Better believe it. Body and soul. No one hurts you except me."
They all exchanged looks and little smiles.
"And secondly." He had their attention again.
"When there's a plan in place and everyone is depending on you, you DO NOT go scooting off to do your own thing, Christine."
"I know. Sorry, Spike. It won't happen again."
"Be sure it doesn't. Right that's enough for tonight. I need to get out of this bloody shirt."
"Umm. I have some bandages if you want me to deal with it?" said Blondie.
Giles stepped in.
"The bleeding seems to have stopped already. I'll have a look at it when we get back."
Angel carefully followed them. They returned to a black van. He made a call and gave hasty directions to his driver. His car arrived just as the van was pulling out of sight. He threw the driver out and raced after them, quickly catching up with them and then carefully hanging back. He tailed them until it finally pulled in at a nondescript house on the outskirts of the city. He sighed with relief. At least he knew where Spike was staying. He returned home feeling more cheerful than he had in a long time.
Angel got to his room just as his mobile started to ring.
"Hello? Spike?"
"Did you enjoy the show, mate."
"I don't know..."
"Angel, don't even try."
"Oh. You knew I was there? When did you realise?"
"When that bloody man turned up with a knife. The aggression was rolling off you in waves. I'm surprised the bints didn't notice."
"Oh. I'm sorry."
"No. You're not."
"No. I'm not. I needed to make sure you were really ok and that your strength had returned."
"So you happy now?"
"Well you didn't really get a proper match but yeah I'm happy. Are you annoyed with me?"
"Nah. Not really."
"I liked your lecture."
"Shouldn't have to give it. I mean honestly of all the bloody stupid things. What the hell is Giles teaching them?"
"Well, they've got you now."
"Yeah. Are you going to be watching me again?"
"Probably." Angel answered, which translated to 'of course I'll be frigging watching you'.
"Oh. Ok."
"You don't mind."
"Nah. Just keep an eye open for the bints as well. They're not as good as they think they are."
"I would do anyway. You know if I happened to be there."
"Yeah. Anyway, it's been a long day."
"Goodnight, Spike."
"G'night."
***
The next few days passed quickly as the slayers settled into a routine, on the whole Giles was pleased how it was going. His contemplation was interrupted by Spike's dulcet tones.
"Rupert! Where the bloody hell are you?"
Giles appeared looking slightly flustered.
"What is it? Is everything alright?"
"No. It's not. I mean what the hell are you teaching these slayers?"
"I'd say, how to fight evil and live."
"Well it's not good enough."
"I'm sorry, I'm at a loss..."
"I'm talking about morals, Rupert. Ethics."
"I...what have they done now?"
"You heard about last night? When we went after that demon?"
"Umm. I heard you got it."
"One of the little sods was deliberately torturing the thing. It was down and instead of going for the clean kill, she began slicing and dicing."
"Well..."
"Well nothing!"
Giles sighed.
"What happened?"
"She was angry because it managed to get a good hit in, caught her a bruise across the face. I'd managed to injure it and she stepped in and bloody well started chopping pieces off it! When I told her to stop, she told me it was an evil monster and deserved it."
"What did you say?"
"Told her that it might be an evil monster but she was not. Told her to kill it cleanly. She did. But they should know these things, shouldn't they? They have souls after all."
"Yes, of course they have souls but remember, they have been joined with a demon. It's where they get their strength. Buffy used to manage it well enough but some don't find it so easy. Look I'll talk to them, we'll include it as part of their training."
"Yeah. It's important. I told them they're mine. I have to look after them, protect them. Even from themselves."
Spike was hovering.
"Was there anything else?"
"Yeah...one of them came to my room last night."
"Yes. Why?"
"Why the hell do you think? She was lonely and wanted a game of chess?"
"Oh. I see."
"They're children, Rupert. What the hell do they think they're playing at?"
"Andrew told them about you and Buffy. They think it's romantic."
"Romantic? Yeah. Right. All bloody hearts and flowers, it was. Just teach them some morals and keep them out of my room, yeah?"
"When was I ever able to control my slayers. Just...lock your door!" Giles said crossly.
Spike gave an angry grunt and disappeared back to his room.
Giles made some tea and decided to phone Wesley.
"Mr Giles? I mean Rupert. Is everything alright?"
"No it's not bloody alright. I'm being given lessons in morality by William the Bloody!" Giles complained
"Ah. He can be a little disconcerting sometimes."
"Do you know? I sometimes think I preferred him without the soul."
"I say. Surely not! Things can't be that bad."
"No, I suppose not. The thing is he's right. It's not just enough to teach these girls how to kill, is it? We have to reinforce their sense of right and wrong."
"I'm sure you're doing fine. Buffy did well enough."
"She had her mother and friends. At the moment these girls have Andrew, Spike and myself."
"A pretty good substitute I'd say."
"Wesley?"
"Yes."
"Thank you. You're a good man."
"No, I'm not. But I try."
"If you need anything, call me."
"Thank you, Rupert. I'll take you up on that." Giles felt much better after talking to his fellow Englishman. Perhaps, he was a person to trust after all. He sat back to enjoy his tea and think how to work in a little ethics to the slayers' education. When suddenly the front door slammed open. A suitcase was wheeled through the door followed by...
"Buffy?"
"Hello, Giles." Buffy replied.
Summary: Spike gets a present. Angel gets peace of mind and Giles gets a surprise.
Author's Note: Firstly, thanks for the kind reviews and comments, they keep me on the ball and motivated. Although I have the story virtually complete as far as plot is concerned I'm always happy when someone gets me thinking about it in a slightly different way - it usually results in some amendments. In answer to one particular query: no not slash, I wanted to keep it fairly innocent and I would have had the grace to warn you in the story summary (not that I have anything against m/m or f/f relationships). Finally the stories are unbeta'd so if you spot errors I'm really grateful when you let me know. Cheers. xxx
Chapter 6
Surprise
A few days later Spike had telephoned Angel. His memory seemed to be returning but in a haphazard way. He sounded ok but Angel could feel his distress. He continued to probe until Spike admitted that the nightmares had started again.
"I'm sorry Spike. I wish there was something I could do to help."
"Yeah, I know. How do you cope with it?"
"You know me. Brood a bit. Fight the good fight. I don't know really, just after a hundred years you get used to it, I guess."
"I don't have a hundred years."
Angel felt an icy grip around his heart.
"What do you mean? You have all the time in the world ahead of you. There's nothing wrong is there? You're ok?"
"Hey, Peaches. Less of the panic, yeah? I'm just saying that I need to be out there and at the top of my game. I have people depending on me."
"Are they sending you out to fight already? Are you sure you're fit enough?"
"Won't know until I try."
"Just try not to put yourself in too much danger."
Spike snorted.
"What?"
"They won't let me sodding fight!"
Angel couldn't help grinning, the younger vampire sounded so outraged.
"No? What happened?"
"A group of slayers were going to clear out a nest of vamps, I thought I could go along and help out, you know? Keep my hand in?"
"Uh huh. Seems a bit too soon to me. You must only just have got back on your feet."
"I was fine and you know how I get. Sort of restless and antsy."
"So you bullied them into letting you go?"
"Yeah. I was looking forward to it as well, a good fight...I mean doing good and if I happen to get in a spot of violence before bedtime...well you know how it is."
"So what happened?"
"They formed a bloody honour guard, surrounded me and killed anything that came within six feet of me!"
Angle tried to smother a laugh.
"And it is not sodding funny! Every time I went for a vamp one of the bloody bint's got in my way and got them first."
"Hey I'm sorry." Angel commiserated sounding anything but sorry. They shouldn't have let him go in the first place.
"Yeah well, all I could do was light up a fag and watch their style, or I would have, if they'd had any. If these are the best I can understand why they need me."
"So is that what you're doing? Training slayers?"
"Yeah."
He sounded uncertain, as though he wanted approval.
"You're right they're going to need someone like you. You'll make a real difference."
"You think?"
"Yes, I do. Anyway, is there somewhere I can reach you if I need y...to get in touch?"
Spike hesitated.
"They're not keen on me giving out details of their operations. If you need to get hold of me Wes will be able to reach me."
"Oh."
"How are things there? Are you all right? Are the gang ok?"
"We're all fine. You know...not as it was, but we're ok. I...we all miss you."
"We'll have to meet up. Once I'm a bit more settled."
"OK. Thanks for calling and if you need anything..."
"Yeah, I know. Anyway, see you around."
"Uh huh and better luck with your next fighting thing."
Another disgruntled snort and he was gone.
Letting him out to fight this early with only untrained slayers protecting him. Sheer stupidity. He tested the bond again and could feel a slight directional tug to it. He was on a mission; he was going to find his childe.
Spike hung up the phone. He'd finally remembered what that damned noise was. The exchange of blood had resulted in Angel and himself bonding again. The whining/bitter noise/taste had been his interpretation of his sire's misery. He was glad he'd made the call. That awful feeling of despair had receded to something slightly more tolerable.
***
Spike threw himself into the training of slayers with unexpected gusto. In the past Giles had always assumed that any good deeds on Spike part were always linked to an attempt to seduce Buffy, yet there was no such motivation here. Now that he no longer had to hover protectively over the children Giles was slowly discovering that he was beginning to like the English vampire.
It had all begun one night when he had heard noises from Spike's basement room. It almost sounded like whimpering. After some consideration he had decided to check on Spike. To find him asleep and within the throes of some tormented nightmare. He'd been hesitant about waking the vampire for fear that he might, under some stimulus from the dream, attempt to attack him. He'd compromised and kept his distance whilst sharply calling for him to wake up. Spike had awoken with a start and instead of attacking had leapt from the bed and cowered in a corner of the room.
Giles had looked on in astonishment, whilst Spike gradually became aware of who was there.
"Oh. Its you."
He'd immediately begun to cover up, attack always being the best form of defence with Spike.
"What are you doing here, in my room, in the middle of the night? If you want to get your hands on this hot, tight body you have to give a man a clue first, not just burst in on him."
"Spike."
"I mean its just not cricket, is it?" He rambled as he wrapped himself back in the bedclothes.
"I always had my suspicions about you. Public school being what it is."
"Spike!"
"Yeah?"
"What's the matter?"
"What do you care?"
"If it affects my slayers, I care. If this is happening to you every night you're not going to be fit to care for them."
Spike melted back into his pillows.
"I know. Don't know what to do though."
Giles sat on the foot of the bed.
"I think you should begin by telling me what's happening."
"Did Wesley tell you why they removed my memories to start with?"
"Yes. Oh. I see. The people you killed...your victims..."
"Yeah."
"Does this only happen at night?"
"Sort of. During the day I can push them to one side. I can't let them interfere with the work I'm doing."
"Maybe you need to remember them when you're awake."
"I don't think so! Bad enough when I'm trying to sleep."
"Spike..."
"Giles. When you have murdered innocents then may be I'll take your advice."
"I have."
"Really? Who? Why?"
"You remember Ben?"
"How could I forget. 'Ben is Glory, Glory is Ben". I said those words so frigging often, one day they'll cut open my head and find those words burnt on to my brain."
"Glory was defeated and Ben was lying there on the tower. I had to remove any possibility of her coming back, so I killed him."
"That was different. You had no choice."
"I felt I had no choice but he was still innocent."
"Not that innocent, he chose himself over the Bit. Still, I suppose that gives you the right. Go on, tell me again what your advice would be."
"It's just that everyone dies, from the moment we're born we owe nature a death. In the end there is nothing the living can do for the dead but remember them as truthfully and as faithfully as possible."
"Go on."
"Some of your victims were killed so long ago, there is nobody left to remember. Only you. So stop denying them. They were more than victims. They were people. You must remember more about them than how you tortured them and how they screamed...some clue as to who they were, what sort of people they were?"
Spike slowly nodded.
"The blood gives up secrets as you drink, you get some images, sometimes just feelings..."
"Really? So when these thoughts intrude on you during the day, don't shut them out. Let them come. Give them their due and remember them as people."
"You want me to sit and brood every day?"
"Yes, I see your point. But Angel has had a long time to come to terms with what he has done. You're not stupid, learn from him."
"I am not going to brood! I'll just have some quiet thinking time each day."
"Exactly."
"Never thought I'd be thanking you for anything."
"Don't worry, you haven't."
Spike brightened.
"No I haven't, have I? Cheers Rupes."
Giles let out a genuinely amused smile.
"Go to sleep Spike."
"Uh huh. G'night."
"I'll see you and your hot, tight body tomorrow."
"Rupert!"
***
Life at Wolfram and Hart continued. As Angel had said it wasn't quite the same as before. Previously they had been hopeful that they were taking on evil from the belly of the beast. Now it appeared they weren't even giving the beast indigestion. They realised this might be a fight they could lose because it was becoming so damned tricky to tell right from wrong.
Part of Wesley thought, 'power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely" and Angel's treatment of Spike seemed evidence of this. But another part thought maybe Angel had been doing the right thing. The place wasn't the same without the bleached one's wicked sense of humour, constant chat and occasional insight.
Gunn was having his own problems. His memory implant was definitely slipping. He was still managing but if it got any worse he'd be unable to cover up any longer. The information he had access to had helped hundreds of people, surely he had the duty to protect this gift? He wasn't sure. He didn't know. He liked who he was now, he liked being smart and he knew this warped his judgement.
Fred had become nervous around Angel, which was hardly surprising. He had always been a hero to her. He still was. Just not as dependable and trustworthy as she had once thought. She missed Spike, they had been friends and despite his volatility he had been a surprisingly steadying influence on them all, with his well-timed comments and ability to see things as they were. Personally she thought Spike's decision was wrong. Angel had explained it to them. There were two main reasons he refused to return: Spike thought that he had a bad effect on Angel and; he needed a purpose, which they were unable to provide.
The fact that Spike refused to work for Wolfram and Hart had hit them all. It threw their own decision to take up employment there in stark relief. That was something that Fred could not fix, but she truly believed that Spike was wrong about his effect on Angel. Their CEO seemed so lost these days. Even when they had only sniped at each other constantly, Spike had brought balance, he questioned Angel if he was overlooking something or in danger of doing something stupid. Not so much 'questioned' but called him a 'stupid wanker' and go storming out. Alternatively, he would confirm a decision, more likely than not picking up the heaviest axe he could find and asking them what they were waiting for.
Without this, Angel seemed more uncertain. Nothing was ever black and white anymore. The only thing that was good at the moment was her relationship with Wesley. She had the sense to make sure that Knox was in no doubt that there was nothing between them and now it was simply a matter of letting Wesley know exactly how she felt. She thought she had but, honestly, men could be remarkably dense sometimes. Even clever ones like Wesley.
Angel tried to keep focused and do a good job but he found that he envied Spike his simplicity of purpose. Train slayers and send them out into the world to fight evil. No grey areas there.
After his conversation with Spike he'd done a bit of shopping. He could understand Giles and his team not wanting to give out addresses or phone numbers but there was no way they could keep him from having contact with his childe. He knew Spike's love of gadgets and actually did some research before hitting the mall. The things he did for his childe, even Cordy had never been able to get him to use one, never mind understand what they did. Now he was the proud owner of a neat little phone, with camera, flash, messaging and WAP facilities. Not only that, he was also reading up on how to use all the functions. Now all he had to do was remember to keep it charged and to carry it with him wherever he went. He neatly wrapped the other phone and asked Wesley to make sure Spike got it.
***
Spike received the gift with some surprise and a little trepidation. The only presents he'd ever received were from his Dark Princess and he'd learnt pretty quickly that he had better be damned careful when opening them. She had been particularly attracted to religious objects and icons. He'd literally had his fingers burnt more times than enough.
It was wrapped in brown paper and had a simple 'To Spike' written in Angel's flowing handwriting. He realised that Giles was curious but he didn't feel like sharing this moment. This was the first present his Sire had ever given him and he wanted to enjoy it in privacy. So he nodded at Giles and took it to his room.
He held it for a while and tested the weight. He held it to his face and sniffed it. He gave it a careful shake and it gave forth some satisfactory rattles. Then he carefully peeled back the sellotape until the paper came free in one sheet. He didn't even glance at the present; instead he stared at the brown paper bearing his name, folded it and put it neatly to one side. Then he turned back to the box and took in his gift. All semblance of patience and calm were gone as he tore into the box.
Giles listened outside the door, just to make sure that there was nothing untoward about the gift. He had to assume that all was well after hearing, "Whoa! Fantastic!" Floating up from the room. He sounded like a kid. A really happy kid. Giles moved away to allow him to enjoy the moment without an eavesdropper.
Spike gave the instructions a cursory once over and then rang the number already input into the phone's memory. It only rang once before it was answered.
"Hi Spike."
Angel sounded so pleased with himself it made Spike laugh.
"Hey there."
"You like?"
"Oh yeah. I like. I've sent you a gift."
"Yeah?"
"On your phone. Take a look."
"Just a minute."
There was the sound of someone tapping away, a few bleeps and then the line went dead. Angel finally managed to retrieve a couple of photos. One was of Spike grinning like a loon. Another was obviously his room. He rang back.
"Uh, sorry about that. How come I've studied this thing all morning and still haven't got the hang of it and you've had it..."
"About three minutes."
"Three minutes and got it singing and dancing?"
"You'd be surprised at the things I can do, Pet."
"Not anymore."
"You've finally accepted I'm a complete genius, then?"
"If you want to believe that, who am I to disillusion you? You're looking good by the way."
"Yeah, back to my normal stunning self now."
"Of all your qualities its your modesty that overwhelms me the most."
"Knocks you out, does it?"
"No... that was Fred and her tranq gun."
"Really! Good on her! Good girl that. Taught her everything thing she knows."
"Except for the logarithms, fractal equations and algorithms."
"I meant taught her all the important stuff. Sneaky attacks and what knocks out fat, angry vamps."
"I'm not fat. I used to be out fighting every night when I worked at Angel Investigations. That sort of lifestyle soon piles on the muscle. And hey! You told her how to knock me out?"
"Well... your soul has always been rather pesky. Thought the kid should know how to defend herself. Didn't hurt you did it?"
"It made me...talkative."
"You being chatty? I'm surprised they didn't drop down dead from the shock of it."
"Yeah. Anyway, thank you. You know, for looking out for them."
"Don't let them know. But I like them."
"Too late, think they already know."
"Huh. What do you think of my digs?"
"They look a bit...dingy."
"You're talking to a person who's main place of abode used be a crypt, luv. Just because you're living the life of bloody Riley with your necro- tempered glass, swanky office, well appointed apartment, some truly stunning cars...uh...what was my point again? Oh yeah, this is luxury to some of us."
"I could get some of that glass put in if you want?"
"I don't think Giles would be keen if I started to make this place vampire friendly. Anyway, it always makes me a bit uneasy."
"I know what you mean, it's unnatural."
"If you're not keen why don't you get rid of it?"
"I kind of thought it was cool. Makes a statement."
"Yeah it says, 'here's a complacent vampire who's going to make a mistake one day and fry himself'."
"No chance of that. Every time I step in front of it I flinch in anticipation."
"Hmmm. I have a basement room, with one small high window. It wouldn't make that much difference here anyway/"
"Yeah, I see it." Angel said looking at the photo again.
"What's that thing in the corner?"
"An X-box."
"I say again, what's that thing in the corner?"
"Bloody hell, Angel. It's a games console, its part of my rehabilitation, helps with my fingers and co-ordination. You need to keep up with the world more."
"I can use a mobile phone!"
Spike smiled gently.
"Yeah, you're doing well, Pet."
"Call me if there's anything. I'll always have it with me."
"I will. And thank you. It's nice. You know...getting gifts."
"Come back. I'll buy you presents every day."
"Subtle, Peaches, very subtle. I'll see you around."
"Yeah. Are you patrolling tonight?"
"That's the plan."
"Oh well. Good luck."
"Yeah. Bye then."
"Bye, Spike."
Angel was feeling very pleased with himself. Spike might sound cool but he knew that he'd been delighted with the present. He looked at the picture of Spike grinning out at him and said, "See you tonight then Spike."
***
Spike began working with a small group of slayers with Andrew and Giles as onlookers.
"I watched you the first night we went out. Well done. You got the job done. But on the whole you were crap. You're relying mainly on your speed, strength and instincts. All of which are important and makes you equivalent to the average fledge. Luckily that's what you were dealing with the other night."
They listened to him in respectful silence. It was unnerving, he was used to verbally sparring with the Scoobies and found that he missed it. Never mind, he had to think of this more as a vampire society, he was in charge and they obeyed.
"By the time I'm done you'll be up to master vampire level. Right we'll have some names. I'm Spike and this is Erica and Chris. He pointed at the two who had been involved in his 'rescue'. Let's hear from the rest of you. Blondie, you start."
For the first time he allowed a group of strangers to name themselves instead of giving them nicknames that allowed him to distance himself from them.
He nodded at each of them. He had given some careful thought to how he was going to structure these classes.
"Ok. We're going to start every morning with Tai Chi. It strengthens your musculature, improves your breathing, your posture, your balance and your blood flow. It also helps with your concentration. I don't expect you to learn it all in a few weeks but we will add more positions everyday."
After the first class Giles approached him.
"I never dreamt you knew Tai Chi. It doesn't really seem your style."
"Nah, it's not. It's the poof, he went in for all that tranquillity lark. Thought it might be a good way to start, get their blood flowing a little, then move on to some proper fighting skills and finally something like yoga, stretch their muscle and ligaments, improve their flexibility after all the hard exercise."
"Really, I am surprised. In fact I would even say I'm impressed."
"What did you think I was going to do? Have them chop through planks of woods with their heads?"
"Yes."
"I was saving that for the next lesson."
***
Angel went out as soon as he was dark, walking the streets and focusing on his blood link to Spike. He could feel it constantly but unless he was fairly close to the other vampire it wasn't strong enough to be able to place him. Finally he felt it, a very definite tug. He felt like howling with joy. He took off down the street. Yes, there it was again. He took to the rooftops to prevent anyone spotting him.
He could just make out the strange little group. Spike, Giles and half a dozen teenaged girls. Angel finally relaxed for the first time since Spike had disappeared. He followed them carefully. Spike was talking. He seemed to be sending Giles and four of the slayers on ahead, whilst he and the other two girls ducked into a side alley. Looked like they had the building and were going for a two-pronged attack and covering both exits. Sound enough. He moved closer in case he was needed.
He froze, someone was threatening Spike with a knife, he scented the air. Human. He tensed up ready to fly in and help. One of the slayers had the same idea and had moved in for what could have been a killing blow had Spike not caught her hand. The sudden movement startled the man and he pressed the knife into Spike's stomach, there was a faint scent of blood before Spike quickly managed to knock it away. The man made a run for it. He'd probably never meant to use the knife. One of the slayers started to run after him but before she could even blink she found an angry Spike standing in front of her. He was seething and Angel wouldn't like to be in her shoes when this was finished.
Spike knocked the padlock off the back door and flung it open noisily. That must have been the sign for the others to burst through the front. The vampires inside were outnumbered and the fight was short and sharp with Spike mainly watching and stepping in when he was needed. Angel could see what he'd meant about their style. No wonder most slayers had such a short life expectancy if this was the general standard when they started.
"Are you alright, Spike?" Giles asked, noticing the flowering bloodstain.
"We got attacked out the back." Explained one of the girls who had been with Spike.
"I'm fine but me and the girls are going to have a little talk."
"Please, don't mind me." Giles said, curious as to the nature of this talk.
Spike nodded and gestured for the girls to gather around.
"Firstly. You do not hit humans. You are not vigilantes, you are not hooligans and you are not a bloody mob. You are slayers, you kill monsters. The police are there to deal with men like him."
"But he held a knife to you!" Said the girl who had attempted hit the man.
"Do you think a knife would harm me or did you think I wouldn't be able to disarm him harmlessly by myself. Hell even one of you could manage that. What makes you think I couldn't?"
"I'm sorry." The girl hung your head.
"Look. It's for your own good. You kill things every day, that's what you're trained for, are you suddenly going to remember to reign in your strength just because it's a human you're dealing with? The rule is you don't hit them unless you absolutely have to. I'm not seeing any of my slayers go bad cus they accidentally kill a human."
"Are we your slayers then?" asked a dark haired slayer with a slight grin.
"Better believe it. Body and soul. No one hurts you except me."
They all exchanged looks and little smiles.
"And secondly." He had their attention again.
"When there's a plan in place and everyone is depending on you, you DO NOT go scooting off to do your own thing, Christine."
"I know. Sorry, Spike. It won't happen again."
"Be sure it doesn't. Right that's enough for tonight. I need to get out of this bloody shirt."
"Umm. I have some bandages if you want me to deal with it?" said Blondie.
Giles stepped in.
"The bleeding seems to have stopped already. I'll have a look at it when we get back."
Angel carefully followed them. They returned to a black van. He made a call and gave hasty directions to his driver. His car arrived just as the van was pulling out of sight. He threw the driver out and raced after them, quickly catching up with them and then carefully hanging back. He tailed them until it finally pulled in at a nondescript house on the outskirts of the city. He sighed with relief. At least he knew where Spike was staying. He returned home feeling more cheerful than he had in a long time.
Angel got to his room just as his mobile started to ring.
"Hello? Spike?"
"Did you enjoy the show, mate."
"I don't know..."
"Angel, don't even try."
"Oh. You knew I was there? When did you realise?"
"When that bloody man turned up with a knife. The aggression was rolling off you in waves. I'm surprised the bints didn't notice."
"Oh. I'm sorry."
"No. You're not."
"No. I'm not. I needed to make sure you were really ok and that your strength had returned."
"So you happy now?"
"Well you didn't really get a proper match but yeah I'm happy. Are you annoyed with me?"
"Nah. Not really."
"I liked your lecture."
"Shouldn't have to give it. I mean honestly of all the bloody stupid things. What the hell is Giles teaching them?"
"Well, they've got you now."
"Yeah. Are you going to be watching me again?"
"Probably." Angel answered, which translated to 'of course I'll be frigging watching you'.
"Oh. Ok."
"You don't mind."
"Nah. Just keep an eye open for the bints as well. They're not as good as they think they are."
"I would do anyway. You know if I happened to be there."
"Yeah. Anyway, it's been a long day."
"Goodnight, Spike."
"G'night."
***
The next few days passed quickly as the slayers settled into a routine, on the whole Giles was pleased how it was going. His contemplation was interrupted by Spike's dulcet tones.
"Rupert! Where the bloody hell are you?"
Giles appeared looking slightly flustered.
"What is it? Is everything alright?"
"No. It's not. I mean what the hell are you teaching these slayers?"
"I'd say, how to fight evil and live."
"Well it's not good enough."
"I'm sorry, I'm at a loss..."
"I'm talking about morals, Rupert. Ethics."
"I...what have they done now?"
"You heard about last night? When we went after that demon?"
"Umm. I heard you got it."
"One of the little sods was deliberately torturing the thing. It was down and instead of going for the clean kill, she began slicing and dicing."
"Well..."
"Well nothing!"
Giles sighed.
"What happened?"
"She was angry because it managed to get a good hit in, caught her a bruise across the face. I'd managed to injure it and she stepped in and bloody well started chopping pieces off it! When I told her to stop, she told me it was an evil monster and deserved it."
"What did you say?"
"Told her that it might be an evil monster but she was not. Told her to kill it cleanly. She did. But they should know these things, shouldn't they? They have souls after all."
"Yes, of course they have souls but remember, they have been joined with a demon. It's where they get their strength. Buffy used to manage it well enough but some don't find it so easy. Look I'll talk to them, we'll include it as part of their training."
"Yeah. It's important. I told them they're mine. I have to look after them, protect them. Even from themselves."
Spike was hovering.
"Was there anything else?"
"Yeah...one of them came to my room last night."
"Yes. Why?"
"Why the hell do you think? She was lonely and wanted a game of chess?"
"Oh. I see."
"They're children, Rupert. What the hell do they think they're playing at?"
"Andrew told them about you and Buffy. They think it's romantic."
"Romantic? Yeah. Right. All bloody hearts and flowers, it was. Just teach them some morals and keep them out of my room, yeah?"
"When was I ever able to control my slayers. Just...lock your door!" Giles said crossly.
Spike gave an angry grunt and disappeared back to his room.
Giles made some tea and decided to phone Wesley.
"Mr Giles? I mean Rupert. Is everything alright?"
"No it's not bloody alright. I'm being given lessons in morality by William the Bloody!" Giles complained
"Ah. He can be a little disconcerting sometimes."
"Do you know? I sometimes think I preferred him without the soul."
"I say. Surely not! Things can't be that bad."
"No, I suppose not. The thing is he's right. It's not just enough to teach these girls how to kill, is it? We have to reinforce their sense of right and wrong."
"I'm sure you're doing fine. Buffy did well enough."
"She had her mother and friends. At the moment these girls have Andrew, Spike and myself."
"A pretty good substitute I'd say."
"Wesley?"
"Yes."
"Thank you. You're a good man."
"No, I'm not. But I try."
"If you need anything, call me."
"Thank you, Rupert. I'll take you up on that." Giles felt much better after talking to his fellow Englishman. Perhaps, he was a person to trust after all. He sat back to enjoy his tea and think how to work in a little ethics to the slayers' education. When suddenly the front door slammed open. A suitcase was wheeled through the door followed by...
"Buffy?"
"Hello, Giles." Buffy replied.