She scanned the crowd, searching for someone who might be from the Watchers Council. In the distance she noticed a tweed suited figure and began making her way toward him. She had only gone a few yards when a young man in corporate office dress called to her. "Miss Summers? I'm sorry I'm late, I was supposed to meet you at the gate but traffic today is worse than ever. Please come this way. My car is right over here." He bustled around her grabbing her bag and chatting at her as they made their way to a small car and headed into London. "I know it was a long flight. We've set up a room for you at our main building and everyone is eager to meet you. Tonight there is a welcoming dinner and tomorrow you can do the interviews. Mr. Travers is looking forward to seeing you again."
'Oh gods, not him again. Concentrate, don't let them rattle you.' She sat quietly, letting him ramble on, hoping to get something from the mindless babble that would tell her what they wanted. By the time they reached the Watchers headquarters her head was throbbing and her eyes blurring.
"Ah, Miss Summers, so good to see you again." Quentin Travers exuded fake warmth and charm as he greeted her at the door.
"Mr. Travers, good to see you again as well." She replied with a large fake smile pasted on her face.
"Eric, please see that Miss Summers is properly settled and has a chance to freshen up before dinner."
"Um, yes, of course. Miss Summers, this way please. We've put you in one the guest suites. Is there anything you need?"
"Aspirin, if you could? Airplanes give me headaches. And make sure I make it to dinner. Thank you Eric." The rooms were large and ornately furnished with dark, brooding antiques. Everything in the rooms reeked of age and weight. She took her small bag and placed it in the huge wardrobe with a twisted grin. 'Oppressive, that's what this room is.'
She had just finished her tour of the large suite of rooms when a soft knock came at the door. "Your aspirin, Miss Summers."
"Thank you Eric, and I'm Buffy, I don't know any Miss Summers."
"Uh, ok, Miss, uh Buffy. I'll warn you before dinner."
Quickly she shook out two aspirin, downed them dry, and flopped down on the bed to wait for them to take effect. After a few minutes she went to her bag and pulled out a big T shirt. Stripping off her traveling clothes she went to slip it over her head. A small envelop fell out on the floor. Pulling the shirt down she bent and picked it up, staring at it for several moments before opening it. Inside were several rose petals and a small card with, "You can kick my ass and you fought a hell god, these council wankers shouldn't be any challenge. Remember, your strength lies in your friends. Think of them when it gets on you. Spike" written on it. A silly grin split her face as she lay back, still clutching the card. This time the thoughts of Spike that followed her into sleep brought a sort of peace.
