Part XII

"I'm not sure exactly," Buffy told him, "I was only told a few things. Five powerful demons were released into this world. Because there was no one to protect it, they just took over. They called together thousands of other demons and destroyed everything."

"How did they get here?"

"I don't know," Buffy replied, "Probably through some kind of magic."

Both were silent for a few moments as they took in their surroundings. Buffy still couldn't believe that all this happened. It was incredible and frightening at the same time.

"Who are you, luv?" Spike asked.

"What do you mean?"

"I dunno," he said, "I feel like I know you from somewhere."

"You know, I have that same feeling," Buffy said, "You seem vaguely familiar."

"That's because you both knew each in the past," Grace said, coming up beside them.

"What?" they both questioned in unison.

"You've experienced many things together," Grace told them, "Don't you remember?"

"Come on, Spike, let's go!" she said pulling his arm, trying to get him move.

"No Buffy, go! Get out of here!" he replied, pushing her away.

She didn't leave his side. The cavern was collapsing all around them. She took her hands and placed them on Spike's hand. She held it tightly.

"I love you, Spike," she said, her hands still holding his.

"No you don't, but thanks for saying it anyway" he replied, "Go on, get out of here!"

Buffy started to wince in pain. Her head was really starting to hurt. Her hands shot up and held her head and she doubled over in pain. The same thing was happening to Spike. Grace didn't panic though because she knew what was going on. She knew that their memories were returning to them.

Eventually their headaches subsided and they both stood back up. Buffy turned to look at Spike and saw that he was looking at her. They just stood there, staring into each others eyes.

"'Ello luv," Spike said, smiling slightly, "Long time, no see."

"Hi Spike," Buffy replied, "It's been a while."

"Yep," he said, "Only about a thousand years of lying in the ground or in my case, an urn."

Buffy smiled a little at that comment.

"Welcome back, slayer and vampire," Grace said, "Are you ready?"

"Ready for what, luv?" Spike questioned.

"For the greatest battle of your lives."