16. Part 16 dinner

Disclaimer: I don't own the characters or series I am just borrowing them from their awesome creators.

Boston's witch burnings

By: Fire Wolfe

A/N: 'Telepathy or thoughts', "Speech"

2013-06-06

Part 16

Korsak was a little annoyed at the lack of invitation into the Isle's home. 'He did not expect the red carpet treatment but the lack of any acknowledgement pissed him off. They did not deserve it hell Jane did not given how she was family to Maura. Even now the Isles family that is the elders seemed distant and cold. He wondered once more how someone as loving and sweet as Maura had ever came from such people. As much as he hated to admit it Paddy Doyle showed more love and affection then the Isles for all their being the so called "Good People"'.

Constance Isles noted the thunderous look on Detective Korsak's face the man was clearly not happy with them. 'She understood that but there was no way she was ever going to openly invite anyone into their home as long as this case was going on. She and William had to be careful because these detectives dealt with the dark side of life and their being turned was always a possibility. She hated that it made them seem cold and cruel but safety had to come first because they were not the only people living in the house.' "Please come into the lounge we will have some food brought in. We can sit and eat then the explainations can be given, well at least what we think is going on. No one is trying to keep anyone in the dark."

Korsak gave her a look that said 'Yeah right sell me another.' However he did manage to keep his option to himself for which Constance was grateful. Anything that made this easier was a plus in her view. This was going to be complicated and painful enough as it was.

"I have some being sent over Constance." Paddy said. "I know you all planned on having dinner at my place. Your usual orders will be here in about ten minutes along with an assortment of your favorite beverages. It's the least I can do." He gave her a sympathetic look. He might not always like the way the Isles had raise Maura but he did understand and he was honest enough to know he had stayed out of her direct life for similar reason, oh he could convince his conscious that it was all about keeping Maura safe but, and a big but he too knew she was a potential so maybe it had been as much about protecting his own heart for her.

Constance Isles nodded grateful. It was perhaps just as well that they were all creatures of habit when dining out. "Thank you I am sure it will be excellent as always. The one thing I love is the ribs, they always are delicious."

That made Paddy smile he always got a chuckle out of watching her eat. She was so refined eating ribs so did not fit the picture he had of her. The look Maura had said she agreed, then again Constance always tried to be the refined lady around her daughter living up to what she thought Maura wanted and needed in a mother. Yes they had all made mistakes but maybe just maybe this case would give them a chance to fix that. He looked over at William and saw the same deep worry and desires. Yes whatever else the Isles were or weren't now like then Paddy Doyle knew deep in his heart and soul they loved Maura as deeply as he did.

Just then the doorbell rang out.

"It seems the food is here." William said as he went to get it. He led the waiters into the house again not inviting them in. However unlike Detective Korsak they took no offence. Each was sadly more than familiar with the dark side of life. If anything the careful actions of the elder Isles raised their respect for the man a man who had raised their boss's eldest daughter.

Jane watched the whole scene and realized that it was not intended to slight them. 'The lack of invitation seemed to be almost a protective action.' She motioned to Korsak to cool it. He nodded still not happy but these people were Janie and Maura's family so he keep it civil even if he wanted to shoot them all for causing Maura and Jane pain. 'His gut was screaming that there was so much more going on then he and his team knew. He had a feeling that the answers were not going to be simple or easy and that they were going to cause issues. Well it did not matter as he had Jane's back and Maura's they were family.'

"What is going on Janie?" Frankie asked clearly not willing to worry about food at a time like this. He might be hungry but food was not as important as answers.

"We are about to find out." Jane said giving her brother a hard look. The look that said watch out this is not safe or secure despite where we are and I have no idea what the hell is going on.

Frankie nodded clearly now on alert and worried.

Faith spotted the young officer and barely stopped herself from whistling at him. 'He was hot. She looked over and noted that Buffy seemed frozen struck still by the cop. Oh wow this could be fun. He looked human but he so pinged her slaydar. Buffy always did like the less then human. Then again so do I.' She look over at Sean and winked. The United States Marshal almost began to laugh at that.

Softly she whispered to her sister slayers "He feels different."

"Yeah, ah he has power It's kind of …intoxicating." Buffy whispered back. "He feels like a good guy though?" The last was a question as she was a little worried about her interest. Meeting guys on a case always made her wary.

Kennedy chuckled softly. "He's hot for a male. Ah, he feels sorta like Paddy or Willow."

"Ah huh, so the cop's powerful, his sis is a slayer think that is why?" Faith asked."I'm thinking she may not be a mini exactly. She's feels a little like you Kennedy."

Kennedy nodded and took that as a compliment. Yes she had been called at Sunnydale but she and those who fought there were different from the others called at the same time just as Faith and Buffy were different from them. It was not something any of them talked about they just all knew. It was sort of like who was the older… and most powerful.

"I don't know. Willow replied she looked at the young police officer and reached out with her senses only to be pushed back when he looked up and locked eyes with her.

"Back the hell off!" He said pushing Jane behind him. His eyes flashed and glowed shocking everyone not the least of which was his sister. He raised his hand. "Don't try that again."

"Shit, Red what did you do?" Faith demanded. She wanted answers but not if it pissed these people off they had to work with them after all.

Willow blushed. "I just tried to look to see who and what he is. I meant no offence Officer. I merely wish to keep my family safe."

Frankie Rizzoli glared at Willow however he could understand the reason if not the invasion. "Fair enough Witch but don't push it. Were I of a different nature I could take offence."

Willow nodded it had been a long time since she had been put in her place and twice in one afternoon was a bit much. Of course she could admit if only to herself she had been a bit casual in her power. Maybe that was a warning one she should consider. Getting to casual could lead her down a dark path and she never wanted that again. However she would never apologize for trying to keep her loved ones safe. "It's just looking no more than you would do Officer. I bet you had your teams try to run us. Of course I am certain you found nothing we did not want you to know."

"Hey back off lady."Jane warned coming to Frankie's defense she had no idea what the red head had done to set her brother off but she would have his back. Jane always had her brother's back even more so now that he too was a cop. Her mother never let her live it down if he got hurt again.

Angela glared at the red head and at her children why did they always find trouble?

Just then her phone rang. She pulled it out and said. "Rizzolli, what's going on?"

"Janie its Tommy there a big mess here I just got to your and Maura's place and someone broke in. They trashed the place. I checked on Ma and she's not here. I'm worried."

"Tommy Mom's here with us. Have you called it in yet?"

"No, ah, I didn't think of it. Had to be sure Ma and you guys were ok."

"Ok, Tommy come to Maura's folks place bring Lydia and TJ. This is not good." Jane pushed her hair back and spun to face the Isles. "Get here as fast as you safely can. I'll call this in."

"Sure sis, we are on our way. Lydia in the car with T.J., She wanted to be sure it was safe yeah know. I had to check though, you know why…. I maybe should have waited. But she has her cell and could have called for help."

Jane rolled her eyes. She was touched by Tommy's concern but his entering a broken into house was so not wise. However she not take him to task for checking on their ma. Tommy might not be a cop but he had courage and he loved their Ma too. Her only real concern was that Lydia and T.J. Might have been in danger. Oh well she talk to him later about that one.

"Someone broke into our place." She said looking at Maura. "Ok what the hell is going on!"

"Jane!" Maura said calling her wife in. She moved to her side and hugged her to stop her anger. They needed answers but losing control would not solve their problems.

Jane spun around and glared at Maura worry showing on her face. Maura suddenly felt really badly about dragging her beloved into this. She dropped her hands and pulled away.

Jane was stunned Maura never pulled away from her. "Maur please I should not have yelled. I'm sorry. Please can you help me and the guys understand what is going on. This is just so out there. I want to solve this murder your friends deserve that you know. So please baby; help me understand." Jane moved close and pulled Maura to her not allowing her to put even a foot of distance between them. Whatever was happening Jane Rizzoli had Maura Isle's back she was her heart and soul and she would not let her wife pull away to try to protect her. "Please Baby explain this craziness to me." She kissed Maura forehead softly. Each action reminding Maura she loved her.

Jane did not care if the actions were not exactly professional. Her partners would never report her and the Isles, Martins and Doyle were family. She could care less about the strangers no one would believe them over her family anyway.

Maura arms caught her and held her tightly. Her fear melted away. Jane was not running away she was here as always. "I don't understand everything Jane. We need to ask them what they are here for and what they think. I…we need my father's assistance with those runes and if this is a serial case we need information on the other victims."

"Ok, I get that but I want answers Maura no evasions or anything."

"Jane you know I can not lie about anything."

Jane gave her a look that said 'no but you cannot give information.'

Maura blushed and sometimes wished her beloved did not know her so well. "I never lie nor do I speculate Jane."

Jane smirked but said nothing. They all moved into the dining room which was now set up for dinner. Jane had to give it to Paddy his people were very well organized. She briefly wondered if maybe their lives would have been easier if the Mobster had simply remained a high powered chef. Then again she would never have met Maura if he was legitimate. That thought was very disturbing because there was no way Jane Rizzoli would have dated a chef's daughter. Only their longtime friendship and innate trust in each other allowed her to lower her guard and accept she loved Maura. Even then she had almost blown it.

"I'm certain you have questions and they will all be answered to the best of our ability and as honestly as we can." William Isles explained. "That being said we should all get some dinner and recharge. Nothing will change in the half hour or so break we take. It might also allow us to all calm down as it has been a stressful few days."

Frankie wanted to protest that but Jane silenced him with a look as well as warning off her team. "Fair enough William but I want answers or there will be hell to pay. This day has been long and my patience is not endless nor can we stall this investigation several people have been murdered rather horribly and if this is a serial case time is of the essence, our home was broken into. I am just glad my mother was on her way here and not at home."

"Jane more is going on then you or we ever suspected."William Isles said. He gave his daughter in law a hard look. "This is a serial case I was told of at least three other incidents. The Council has come to Boston to end it." He looked over at Doyle who seemed to look worried now.

Angela watched the situation with some trepitation. She had no idea what was going on but she worried for her family all of them. Tommy could have been hurt he should have called the police as soon as he saw the door hanging open but he was impulsive and protective as his brother and sister. He had a good heart even if he did not always think things through. She was just glad he, Lydia and T.J. were on their way here they would be safer. Well she hoped so anyway. Another serial killer could her family never catch a break, well at least they had help this time. She might not like Doyle but he added protection for her Janie and Maura.

Jane was about to protest and demand answers when Maura caught her arm. "Jane let's eat first. We all need to calm down and trying to work when we are angry and hungry won't solve anything. Please let's just eat maybe they can fill us in on the details while we do."

"We can do that. Look it is vital we all work together there is a lot going on. Some of which even Dr. Isles er your father does not know." Buffy said. "We are not going to lie or try to evade answering your questions and concerns. However none of us has eaten in over 12 hours and frankly its telling on our tempers."

Jane could understand that so she nodded and they all took their places. She just hoped Tommy and Lydia got here soon. She had a feeling they needed to eat too.

TBC….

17. Part 17 what now?

Disclaimer: I don't own the characters or series I am just borrowing them from their awesome creators.

Boston's witch burnings

By: Fire Wolfe

A/N: 'Telepathy or thoughts', "Speech"

2013-06-06

Part 17

"Constance perhaps you should get our guests some liquid refreshment?" William suggested. He was very thirsty and decided that despite the relatively early hour he needed drink. It was not going to be easy to explain this thing to Maura. While she had gone along so far he could tell she was barely refraining from demanding answers. Answers that was even now hard for him to deal with. He and Constance had made many mistakes as her parents and he hoped she could forgive them when all was said and done. In the end however like Patrick he resolved to protect her and Jane to the best of his ability. He was actually glad his daughter was so enamored with the detective it might mean she would listen to her in regards to her safety. It was not something she had ever done for her family. He sighed knowing that too was their fault. They had encouraged and maybe forced their only child to be independent at a young age and in doing so lost the right to demand she heed their advice in anything.

"Yes that is a very good idea. Would anyone care for some tea or perhaps some coffee?"

The look Constance got told her tea was not really an option. However Coffee was a possibility. She picked up the nearby telephone and called for Coffee adding beer, wine and whiskey to the order deciding from the stressed look that the alcohol might well be needed. Even William seemed to look as if he could use a drink. Constance knew she needed one too. A stiff whiskey sounded delightful about now and given she was now a slayer she had no doubt it would barely phase her. There was definitely a down side to being a slayer besides facing the night.

"That sounds good Mrs. Isles. Coffee that is, I mean I could use it. It has been a heck of a day." Buffy said. She pushed her hair back clearly showing signs of stress. Buffy had not been kidding when she said she was tired and hungry. She hated her girls were being hunted and knew she needed to recharge to catch their killers.

"Yeah, but B I'd like something a bit stronger." Faith said. "A good shot of Irish Whiskey would not be a bad thing right now." Faith was not about to pretend to be as civilized as her sister slayer. Her family would take her or leave her she did not care she had Buffy as a sister the gang as family warts and all and that was enough for her.

"Here, here, I so agree." Patrick said getting a glare from both his daughters. He merely smirked at that. Here again was proof Faith was a chip off the old block not that he would say that of course. He knew full well he had a lot of fences to men with both his daughter all of his children really. Patrick took a seat when offered. Standing was still not easy for him Fae healing only went so far it took time even for a Druid King to heal.

Jane watched him still surprised to see he was standing up on his own two feet. She recalled he had done that at the garage was well but it really had not registered even when they were in the hospital. She glanced over at Korsak who seemed equally shocked at this latest twist. Did that mean he had pulled some underhanded deal to escape prison?

Patrick Doyle noted their looks and decided to get that elephant out of the room at once. "The Federal government knows I can stand. I simply cannot walk far or very long. I will never again be able to walk far or run. This is as good as it gets but given the alternative I am not complaining. I still would be rather helpless in a normal prison as I normally use the wheel chair to go about. An electric one is not allowed in the facility they wanted to put me into. This leg tag was a compromise in return for some of my testimony against other Irish crime families. Given the nature of some of the information I had on them I had no issue at all with turning states evidence. I may have committed many crimes that you find difficult to understand and accept but, I never was into white slavery or child pornography and drugs sicken me. Getting such monsters off the streets was a benefit to the community so I did it. I have no regrets though it did make me a few more enemies which is why I have a body guard 24/7."

"What have the doctors said?" Maura asked. 'She might not like her biological father much but, she was a doctor and still concerned about him Maura would never admit growing attached. She did not want to be but, she cared despite herself. Paddy was sadly a bad habit she could not break.' Maura looked over and noted Hope to seemed concerned. 'Well it looks like this is one more thing we share.'

Patrick resisted smiling at that one. "I have some feeling in my legs and lower body however it is not always stable. It comes and goes the nerves were damaged badly but not totally cut off. Hence the ability to stand with the aid of the braces and to walk a little ways, it is more than I deserve and expected so I am grateful. They say surgery might improve it but the risk is very high. It is not one I am willing to take at this time."

Jane felt a small bit of guilt until Maura took her hand. 'Her beloved held it tightly and let her know that she no longer blamed her for shooting Paddy.'

"Detective I acted rashly and you had no choice. I know you did what you had to so let it go. I am alive and well and frankly we have a lot more important things to deal with. The shooting was a mistake on my part; I forgot that you are an honest cop a mistake I will never make again. You did what you had to and it's a credit to you that you did." He took a glass of whiskey from the butler and sipped it. 'He had to admit the Isles kept top of the line Whiskey. He also knew that given his rate of healing he would be 100 percent in about six months not that he would ever tell anyone that of course. He was not that big of a fool or that trusting.'

"Yeah ok, Constance could I have some of that coffee please." Jane asked. She might long for a beer or maybe something even stronger but her gut told her she would need her wits about her for this dinner/ meeting.

"Of course Jane, Maura said that you enjoyed this brand she had at her house so I had the chef stock it."

Jane nodded her thanks as Constance passed her a cup. Soon everyone had a beverage of choice. Jane noticed Korsak took a Whiskey then again this had to be driving him insane having to once more work with Paddy Doyle. Hell a stiff drink was on the menu for later when she got off work. She however did not blame Korsak for his choice. If it kept him calm so much the better. Besides technically they clocked out an hour ago.

"I know this all seems a little strange." William began. "Maura I already knew about your case before you called to ask for my assistance."

"What how?" Korsak demanded his whiskey forgotten as this news was shared.

"We told him and asked for his assistance." Willow said. She looked away momentarily going back to the moment that the coven and the slayers had been killed. While she had not felt the death of the coven members as strongly as the slayers it still hurt badly.

"How did you know about this?" Frost demanded. "I want to know why they called you Dr. Isles."

"They called me for the same reason Maura did. I am an expert in a certain area or rather as close to one as they have right now in Boston." William Isles said as he sipped his drink. He wished it was larger but decided to keep it small. Getting drunk would not help matters right now. He watched as Paddy downed his glass and poured another. Not for the first time he wished he had that Irishman's tolerance. "I was asked to help introduce the Council to the BPD and hopefully avoid a conflict. They knew that you would be asking a lot of questions and that you would need to be introduced by someone you trusted to tell the truth."

"What they did not want a pissing contest?" Jane asked.

"Language Jane!" Maura said but she was not to be outdone as her mother-in-law joined her in trying to reign in Jane's language.

"Janie language," Angela shouted not believing her daughter could be so crude and uncouth."I swear girl I should wash your mouth out with soap."

Willow giggled and Buffy grinned it was too funny. Kennedy and Faith were both laughing. Faith and Kennedy both whispered to each other. "Whipped"

"Faith your sister has that detective whipped." Kennedy said with a wicked smile. "She's not so bad ass now is she."

"Yeah, she does, it's funny." Faith said. 'It was clear she thought her sister was cool. It made her think maybe they could get along is she could make that hard ass detective toe the line. It meant she was tough and strong and that gave them some common ground.'

Jane heard the remarks and glared at everyone. "Please explain William, this could be vital to the case." Jane wanted to bring things back on track not to mention she hated being teased especially by people she did not know or trust.

"The first thing you need to understand Detective is that this is about a lot more than four simple murders. This whole case has national and international implications. That is not to say that Maura's associates/ friends are not important because they are for both being outstanding individuals but for who and what they are on a whole."

"Huh? Look Dr. Isles I'm just an old worn out cop please explain this. You know maybe it be best if introductions were made. We never really got to know why those folks are here and what they do? I mean I understand there may be a family connection or two but what does it mean to us and the BPD and our case. All I've seen now is some hocus pocus and no real information given." Korsak said with a pointed glare at the Council Members.

William Isles flushed. He had to admit the elder detective had a valid point. He sipped his drink and gave a pointed look at Buffy. She nodded.

This gave the members of BPD pause because clearly William Isles was asking permission from the small blonde. That was shocking even to Maura because she had never seen her father ask anyone for permission to speak.

"Well watcher man you might as well go ahead and give the "Speil."" She said with a smirk.

"I'm retired." William said with a glare. "I retired a long time ago and so it's not my job."

"Yeah and so was I about four or was it five times now but here we are." Buffy quipped back. "There is no rest for the wicked as they say."

Her entire party winced and looked away from her and William and Constance flushed. Hope almost cried out in pain for their possible no probable futures. No one wanted a reminder of just how a slayer retired.

"I highly doubt you are wicked my dear." Constance said to offer what comfort she could. "Not like some of us. Some of us have many sins to make up for."

Paddy nodded at that and raised his glass to Constance 'yes some of them had a lot to make up for.'

"Yeah well, heaven it's a hard place to leave for this world but enough about my retirements. Please give the speech I doubt the good police officers would believe me if I gave it. I mean it sounds more believable in a posh accent. You may not be British but you have the voice that will make it all believable."

Constance actually giggled at that as did Hope.

"You know she has a point." Hope pointed out. "I never would have believed it if some California princess gave it to me all those years ago."

This time it was the Council's turn to giggle. Buffy glared at her but had to agree with her reasoning.

"All right, I'll tell it but after we all have some food." William said putting his food down. "We need it and frankly I am not sure how to tell it because honestly I have been somewhat out of the loop as they say since the late 1980's. However I will endeavor to give an outline."

"Fair enough, I suppose those folks can fill in from there then. Also I think some of the rest of us have something to share." Jane said giving a very pointed look at her little brother.

Francesco Rizzoli simply sat up straighter and looked his big sister and idol in the eye. "Nono said never to share this with you until you came into your own "gifts". I am guessing that happened around Hoyt that last time or when you shot yourself." He looked over at Willow and Buffy for confirmation of what he suspected.

"When were both incidents?" Willow asked. Her mind racing, how had they missed a new slayer being called? That had never happened before and it was a worry. The first they had detected Jane was when they found Maura but clearly she had been a slayer a lot longer then that.

Frankie quickly explained the situation much to his sister's displeasure.

"Oh well that explains it then." Willow said.

"Care to share Will?" Buffy asked.

"Ah when she was shot "Slayer Healing" Kicked in. I think however she was already a slayer when she took out that Hoyt character. It gave her the edge you know the drive to protect ones family/mate. It's what gives you all an edge when fighting something that is after family."

"Yeah that makes sense."Faith said. "Wickedly cool but I don't think big sis is getting it. Dr. Isles maybe-

Just then Tommy and Lydia came walking in with the later carrying T.J. She looked relieved to see Angela ok and a little shocked at seeing everyone else. She froze a little at the sight of the slayers. She backed up into Tommy pulling little T.J. close as she spotted them. "Tommy we got to get out of here."

"Huh, why it's just the family."

"Slayers, Tommy they are slayers." A near panicked Lydia whispered still trying to push back against her lover. "We have to protect T.J." She turned and pushed her son into his father's hands then spun back and shocking everyone began to change. Her skin became a dark indigo and she grew in height by about six inches and became highly muscled. Long claws came out of her arms and her hair turned green. She now sported small horns on her head. "Stay away I won't let you hurt T.J. he may be human like."

Jane had always been uneasy around Lydia she never understood why because it was not like her to be judgmental. However now her skin was tingling and her gut screamed to get T.J. Away from Lydia and Tommy.

Buffy moved quickly stopping Jane from acting. "Easy there it will be ok. I doubt his mother will hurt him. Look Miss we don't hunt randomly. If you don't bother humans we don't mess with you or yours. You are not planning to eat the baby are you?"

"What!" Angela shouted. "Lydia would never hurt T.J."

Lydia growled and stood protectively over her family.

"Well then no worries. We have treaties with your clan in fact most are some of our best allies and fighters."

"Clan I don't know nothing about that. It was just me and ma growing up and Ma she don't change."

"Well we are not the old council we have a live and let live policy as long as humans are spared and no harm to others who are innocent happen." Buffy said softly trying to not scare the young lady into acting foolishly. A protective mother was dangerous regardless of the species.

"Yeah why should I believe you? Ma said slayers kill our kind. One Killed my Da in New York."

Buffy winced at that one. "Maybe, I don't know what happened in the past only we are trying to change things. Good people are people regardless. So maybe we can work this out. Your son looks like a fine boy."

That was clearly the right thing to say as Lydia began to calm down she began to shift back to human form. Tommy for his part merely stood holding their son clearly he knew her secret and was ok with it.

"He's my pride and joy I try to do right by him. The Rizzoli's are helping with that. How can I believe you?"

"Well I give my word," Buffy said softly."Everyone will honor it if they are a part of my council."

"Your council who are you to make such a promise."Lydia asked.

"Buffy Anne Summers and I don't give my word lightly."

"Buffy Summers the queen? Oh, ok." Lydia shifted fully back to human form.

For the first time Jane was willing to give Tommy a pass at his running clearly there were issues she had not been aware of and having one's girlfriend shift into Mystique had to give him a pass for freaking out and bailing. At least he had the guts to come back. Somehow she had a feeling this was all going to play into the explanations for the evening. It was never simple was it?

18. Part 18 Clearing the Air

Part 18 Clearing the air

"Well it seems like Xander's not the only demon magnet." Faith said with a snort.

"Yeah, oh well it's no biggie if she isn't out to end the world or hurt people." Buffy agreed. "Look let's all get to dinner I am starving."

Just like that the tension seemed to drop.

"How come Lydia turned blue?" Angela asked. She looked warily at her grandson's mother then at T.J." However she was actually quite proud of Lydia for being so protective maybe there was hope for her yet.

"Well I would say that's her true form. A lot or demons seem to be blue for some reason. It's a lovely color on her though." Willow said."I actually like the green hair too."

Lydia blushed at that turning her now human cheeks bright red.

Jane looked over at Maura who merely shrugged it off. She noted Frost seemed resigned and Korsak well he took a deep drink.

"Ok so let me get this straight. You are demon or something you and Tommy had T.J. which makes him a mix, then slayers….ok what rabbit whole did we fall into Maura?"

Buffy and the gang began to laugh loudly. It was simply too funny.

"Welcome to the real world detective believes me it gets a lot crazier. Try falling in that hole when you are just turning 15 years old and your parents don't believe you. So not a fun ride, crazy is the name of the day and game. Don't worry after we eat we will explain things more. Now come on that food smells great."

Jane's stomach growled and suddenly she was starving.

"I guess, ok so we eat."

Soon everyone had a plate and took their seats.

The table was silent for a little while as everyone began to eat. It was actually kind of anti climatic to find out Lydia was a demon. It made Jane wonder about the general population of her city? How many people just appeared to be human? Was she or Maura even human anymore?

They all sat down to eat dinner. It would go well for a while as everyone was clearly processing and very hungry. Hunger seemed sharp to Jane but she ignored it as she filled her plate. One thing she had to give Doyle his place made stellar food.

The dinner seemed to go well and in silence for a while. As their hunger was satisfied Jane had many questions running through her head. It was clear she had questions and that these people might have answers. She might not like it but it was clear they would be forced to work with these people. Oddly enough she was suddenly aware that of the group it was Doyle she trusted the most and that was downright disturbing to her. She gave a sidelong glance at her brother Frankie. Somehow someway Frankie had done something to that red head. She had tried to pull something but her brother like Doyle had stopped her cold and that was a worry. How had he done it and what had the girl tried to do? Jane was uncertain what the woman was but the hair on the back of her neck had risen when she stared at Frankie. It made her want to pull her gun or cuffs. Her every gut instinct told her the woman was very dangerous and that they had to use care with her. Not that she thought any of the others were not dangerous merely that this woman Willow was a powerhouse. Of course Doyle had stopped her too and protected them all from at the hospital which again was wrong on so many levels. When had she begun to trust the mobster with their lives? For the first time ever she was glad to have Paddy Doyle around and more than happy he was protective of Maura. Jane trusted the mobster to keep her wife safe and oddly enough maybe she even trusted him to keep her family safe. Maura saw how pensive Jane was and caught her hand and held it tight. This simple act was oddly reassuring and calming to the detective. Jane gave Maura a smile it was full of love support and her trust. The moment and the silence at the table was broken as Kennedy spoke.

"So Maura how do you like working with the Boston Police as a medical examiner? It must be challenging work."

Maura looked over at Kennedy it was more than clear there was a deep and perhaps painful history between the two women but for the first time Maura did not feel the younger woman was mocking her or her work. They did however have a history so Maura was of course wary. Her look said this.

This time it was Willow who took Kennedy's hand and pulled it to her mouth for a kiss. It was an open expression of love and trust along with her unconditional support.

This action shocked Maura but it also eased her worry because it was clear Kennedy was loved and cared for. She surely had to have grown past the brash young woman she had been for that to happen.

Maura decided to answer truthfully. "The Boston Police Department has many fine officers. Detective Korsak, Rizzoli and Frost have one of the highest solve rations in the department."

"Well if we do doc it's because of you and your team."Korsak said. "Dr. Isles is the best Medical examiner in the state. If there is evidence of a killer leaves behind she and her team find it and we lock the killer away."

Faith flinched at that. The statement on its surface was nothing bad really but it did bring back a lot of really bad memories. She glanced over at Willow and noted the red haired Wiccan looked as disturbed as she was. Then again both of them were killers. Not that the gang ever considered that none of them were really lily white. It was the thing that had bugged Faith back in the day a lot. She, Willow, Giles,Oz and even Buffy to some extent all had blood on their hands but the only one ever called on it was her. Angel, Anya and Spike made them all appear to be armatures at the bloodletting. Yeah she had turned to the mayor but really she had no option when the gang had failed to support her. In fact if she was being totally and completely honest the deputy mayor's death was as much Buffy's fault as her own. Yes she killed the professor but really he like the deputy mayor had not exactly been an innocent. She noticed Buffy at least had the grace to blush and look down. Clearly she too had memories and maybe even a nightmare or two well at least Buffy and her had it out and settled t that between them. Hell it if Faith was honest the one thing that had pissed her off and still did for all she loved Red was the fact that the Wiccan never took responsibility for her actions. Yeah she went to the coven but did she attempt to make amends for the deaths she caused? Xander's attitude had been the worst. Hell boy toy seemed to think she and Buffy were satan's daughters. Her for killing and Buffy for falling for first Angel then Spike, that one pissed her off to no end because hello Xander had shot a bunch of kiddies on Halloween but did anyone call him on that? She at least had never killed a child. Anya, Spike and Angel were all demons enough said there. Ok maybe not because really when it came down to it the Scourge never as a whole never had Anya's body count but it was fine and dandy for Boy Toy to sleep with the demon girl but her and Buffy look at a demon and they were all evil like. Let's face it none of the gang was clean and pure. However she pushed that thought aside.

"Maybe you can catch a killer but that does not always ensure justice." Paddy said. "Killing is not always wrong or evil some beings just plain need to be put down like the mad dogs they are."

"Yeah well some would say you should be put down." Frankie quipped.

Doyle eyes locked on the young officer who to his credit did not flinch or break eye contact. Jane felt her hand slip to her gun.

"Aye you may be right on that lad. I am no saint and I freely admit to not always following what one might call the law. However, I am not really human so maybe just maybe those laws do not apply to me and mine." His eyes shifted to Faith who suddenly did not quite feel so bad about her past which was his intent in the first place.

"I suppose Patrick has a point." William agreed.

"What do you mean not human? How can the law not apply?" Maura asked. She looked over at her adopted father who surprisingly nodded in agreement with Doyle.

"He is not human and those he hunts so Human laws are not applicable. "Willow explained. "While the ones killed appear human given what Mr. Doyle has said I am more than willing to bet most of those he has killed were demons or some variation who would come under his jurisdiction as the king in these parts."

"Very good Miss Rosenberg but not completely true; I have killed humans but they are the ones who deal in the darkness, my duty is to protect the city and my family. I make no apologies for doing that. Yes I have made deals with demons in the past as well. Not all are bad people despite not being human but some are just bad even if they can pass. Those beings have to be regulated and controlled as you and the Council knows all too well."

"Yeah, vamps can pass well at night and in the dark." Dawn agreed. "They need to be staked. I have to agree with Mr. Doyle human laws don't always work."

"The law is all we have to keep us from becoming barbarians." Caylin said. It was the first time she spoke.

It got her a hard look from several people.

"Caylin has a point." Frost said. "While maybe it's true that there are things not human out there the majority of the world does not know that and the actions some take can be or appear to be criminal. Besides who is to say some demons and supernatural just don't want to get along."

"We do not harm the innocent." Buffy protested. "As I told Lydia we have a live and let live attitude which is a lot more liberal then the council had in the past. I don't condone the past but fear makes people irrational."

"Yeah, I get that." Tommy said. "I almost ruined the best relationship of my life out of fear. I almost lost Lydia and T.J. and I made her feel bad because I reacted without thinking. I know everyone thought I was being irresponsible and I was but I have to admit the first time I saw Lydia all blue like I panicked."

Lydia took his hand in hers and kissed it. "Baby you came back and we worked it out. Mom always said normal guys don't get it. I should have told you the truth first but I feel so fast and hard and I thought I could keep it a secret."

Kennedy snorted at that. Secrets always came out. "Well I would say you make a cute couple. Not that I'm into guys but Tommy kind of cute and your son is adorable I sure would not mind a few of my own someday with Willow's beauty and brains of course."

"Maybe one day," Willow said. "What I think we are trying to say detectives, officers is that it's not always black and white or good or evil there are sadly a lot of shade of grey in there."

Jane almost choked on the unintentional pun. "Shades of grey?"

"Ah, well not always clearly good or bad detective." Willow said blushing badly.

"Well I am glad Maura the medical examiner. She probably speaks well for the dead. I mean the ones lost to accidents and human murder." Kennedy said. "Look we don't want to step on anyone toes."

"You are anyway."Jane replied.

"Jane." Maura said trying to stop the potential fight.

"We are, the reasons have been explained somewhat. However perhaps Dr. Isles needs to go into it more, that might ease your mind a bit." Buffy said. "We honestly want the big bads stopped. If they are human you can have them. If not they will be dealt with by our laws."

"Here here." Doyle said.

Buffy gave him a dark look not sure his support was a good thing or not.

"I cannot agree," Korsak interjected."Murder is murder, yes sometime you can justify it to yourself but in the end you have killed."

"So you have never killed anyone detective?" Faith asked. She knew the answer but decided to remind the officer his hands were not clean either.

Korsak jerked back as if slapped. "It was self defense."

"The person is still dead. Look we can argue it all day and all night but in the end it don't matter cause dead is dead. Wrong right, we all have to live with our actions. So l'll make you a deal. Don't judge us and we won't judge you all."

"We are the law." Jane said defending her partner.

"So are the slayers and council in their world." Constance said. "A world we have all just joined."

Jane had no argument for that.

"Perhaps it will help if William gives that talk now."

William Isles nodded and began to explain the supernatural world and the Council. Maybe once his daughter's associates understood they were acting by the authority of most of the world's governments things would calm down.

TBC….