Chapter 435
On Monday April 22nd Dawn was with the other vampires, learning to control these new instincts. Buffy knew they could help Dawn in ways she couldn't and they feared what Buffy might do if they tried anything. Buffy knew she had to talk to the group, that would not be easy. But first Buffy needed to talk with Faith. They spoke before school.
Faith: Why did you want to talk about B?
Buffy: You know I protect Dawn. Anyone tries to hurt her, they'll answer me.
Faith: Yeah, why would I want to hurt Dawn?
Buffy: Because she's a vampire now. She was turned last night.
Faith: I'm sorry to hear that. She was a good person. But we both know what has to be done.
Buffy: We've made alliances with Angel, Spike. How is protecting Dawn any different?
Faith: We work with some to save the world. But I haven't forgotten what they are. When this is over, if I'm still standing, I'll deal with it then. The longer you wait, with Dawn the harder it will be. If you can't do it yourself, I will.
Buffy: Ever wonder who would win in a fight between you and me? I mean no holds barred mortal kombat?
Faith: Sometimes. I have slayer strength. You're stronger than the average mortal, but I'm the real deal.
Buffy: True, but I have something to fight for. Go after my sister, we'll find out.
Faith: You're sister is dead. That demonwearing Dawn's face killed her. If you don't get that, if you really want to protect that thing, then you really don't know what a real slayer is.
Buffy: Maybe you're right. Maybe protecting Dawn disqualifies me and the Powers that be will never choose me. But if being a slayer means killing my sister, I want no part of that.