***

Abruptly, Angel was pulled out of sleep by a sharp pain. He sat up panting, his undead heart burning in his chest, eyes wide in shock. This was it. One of his Childer had claimed a human. //Spike, foolish Spike.// He thought tenderly, shaking his head. No matter how much Angel had hated the bleached vampire in the past, if he had willingly taken Xander as bonded, then he must really love the human and that demanded Angel's respect.

//Xander bonded to a vampire, Spike of all people.// The dark vampire kept shaking his head. //The world is strange.// He smiled lightly, pushing aside the pain, as he sent peaceful and calm thoughts through his connection with Spike to the Bond itself. The fire in his chest slowly left him, his acceptance being recognized by the new bond. Those of the line of Aurelius who were against the bonding, would be lead by this particular feeling burning in their chests, as if scorching their hearts, directly to Spike and Xander, fed by their anger and resentment.

The vampire leaned back onto his bed. //Drusilla will be on her way to Sunnydale soon. Like every other childe of the line of Aurelius. No one from the master's line claims a human. That was a fact, not even a rule.//

Angel sighed. //Hopefully, Xander will call me as soon as he comes back to his senses.// Not willing to fall asleep in case he received the secretly anticipated phone call, he stared at the ceiling for the remainder of the night.

***

When he woke up a few hours later, Xander was acutely aware of the body beside him. He could feel Spike's life, despite the look of death and the coldness of his skin. The brunette 'knew' at that moment that he would feel the pain, the hurt and the death of his mate as fiercely as his own. //No wonder the bonded die together... No one would be able to live with that kind of pain...//

The Bond wasn't one sided though. It would work the other way around as well. //Pretty powerful stuff.// The young man thought. He closed his eyes and breathed deeply. Pain wasn't the only thing that was carried by the Bond. Love, friendship, care and trust flowed through Xander at an uninterrupted pace. The young man had never felt so cherished. He felt as if everything could come tumbling down, but he would still be safe with Spike. The Bond would act like a shield.

For the first time in his life, Xander felt... relieved. //Like the weight I've carried all my life has finally been lifted. Or maybe it's just the sex... relaxing and all. Speaking of which, that was wonderful... wonder if we can do it again now?// Xander turned and looked at Spike. He smiled at his lover's sleeping form. //Nah, he looks too peaceful, don't wanna wake him up. We're gonna have lots of other times like that anyway.//

He could feel himself harden at the memories flooding his mind. "Oh yeah." He moaned.

Suddenly, a new and strange feeling arose within the young man's chest. A sense of dread slowly started to overwhelm his senses and his mind. Something bad was coming... he just didn't know what... or who. Xander could tell the feeling was coming from Spike. //Probably something to do with his vampire senses-thingy. Like... someone he knows... or is close to, is coming.//

Then it hit him. //Fuck! Have to call Angel. He needs to know... and he can probably explain.// Xander pushed the covers off and looked at his mate. //Oh God. Spike will be so pissed. Fuck! I've really gotta do it. Angel said it was important.//

As if feeling his mate's turmoil, which he probably did, Spike opened his eyes and looked at Xander. " What is it luv? You all right?" He sat, automatically wrapping his arms around his lover.

"Spike." Xander said surprised. "Sorry I woke you up. I'm all right... just something about the Bond." He looked into the vampire's eyes, scared.

Suddenly worried, Spike tightened his hold on Xander and started rocking. "What is it? Are you sick? Did I hu..."

"No!" Xander said fiercely, trying to soothe Spike's worries. "Nothing you did. And I'm feeling great. You would know what the problem was if you weren't panicking."

Spike breathed deeply, trying to calm down. Xander was ok, but still, something was wrong.

"Try to feel it Spike. Someone you know... or should know, is coming."

Spike's eyes opened wide in realisation. "Dru." He said, shocked. She couldn't be that near. It was impossible. "Fuck!" //Coming after him, she is. Bloody Hell! Should've known that would happen!// He shook his head, tightening his hold around his lover. //But I bloody won't call the soddin' Poof. I can take care of my mate by myself.// "Won't let her touch you luv. Ever. She won't come near you, I promise."

"What if she comes near you, and stakes you? Spike," Xander took his lover's head in his hands and locked eyes with him. "If you die, I die. There's no middle road here. I can't go on without you, if I feel you die. There's something we can do to keep Dru away, isn't there?"

Spike looked stunned. He took a deep breath and sighed. "Yeah, but I won't do it luv. I can't. Been on my own too long. I know how to take care of meself and I can bloody well protect you. No need for the Poof to stick his nose into something that doesn't concern him."

"But it does concern him!" Xander argued. "This is going to start a big game of run and hide. We'll be running away from every single vampire of the line of. whatever the line of the Master is. Angel said."

"When the bleedin' hell did you talk to my Sire?" Spike exclaimed, resisting, as he started to understand Xander's point. But to submit to Angel. //Never! I won't go back there again. He can bloody stay away from me. But Xanlove has a point.//

"I told you I called him before."

Spike nodded, looking down. He was about to say something when Xander continued. "He said he had to perform some sort of ceremony so that I would be accepted by your sire, hence out of anyone else's reach." Xander looked intently into the vampire's eyes. "Spike, this will protect us both. We won't have to worry about Drusilla or anyone else until our death, if we do this." Xander sighed. "No matter how much I dislike Angel, I think it's worth it. Don't you?" The last question was whispered, all breathing stopped, while Xander waited for an answer.

"Pet?" Spike asked calmly. "Do you have any idea what the ritual is about?" Xander shook his head. "But you accept it just like that, no questions?"

"Yeah!" Xander exclaimed, taking a big, much needed breath. "I mean, it's the only way to protect ourselves without constantly running away. I don't care what the ritual is about. Although, from Angel's embarrassment on the phone, I can guess sex must be involved somewhere. Even then, I don't care. We will be safe Spike." Xander punctuated his speech with a quick kiss on his lover's lips. "No running, no hiding. We'll be able to love. You and me, together. You can work on your schemes and kill nasties all you like, and I'll keep my job, that I actually LOVE, for once. And we'll be together. Loving and living together. We'll be free to love each other without anyone trying to kill us. Isn't that reason enough to do this fucking ritual?" The last sentence was almost shouted and Xander was on the verge of tears, his voice wavering.

Stunned, Spike took a moment to process his lover's outburst. //He's right. I owe him that. Mean, he's got a life, too. I can't just bloody take him away and make him live a life like that... and I'm pretty comfy where I am, thanks very much.// He smiled sheepishly at Xander. "You're right love." He lovingly kissed his lover's lips before standing up.

He left the room for a moment, coming back with the cordless phone in one hand.

"Huh, Spike?" Xander asked, as Spike sat back on the bed. "I got a phone here. Like, in this room, right there." He pointed at his nightstand

"I know Love. S'just that I want both of us to talk to the Poof together, not just you, or me." He smiled lightly at his mate. //My mate.// His smile grew bright. //Got a nice tone to it, it does. My mate. Mine.//

Xander smiled back, shaking his head. "All right. Lets get this done." He looked in Spike's eyes and could feel a bit of fear flowing through the bond. "I love you Spike." The brunette vowed, as if knowing that this particular phone call could change everything. Would in fact, change there lives. Just like their bonding had.

"Love you too pet. Would never have claimed you otherwise."

Their lips met of their own accord and they kissed gently, love flowing through the Bond, over and above all fears and uncertainties. The kiss grew heavy and passionate, as they hugged each other and felt each other's desire. Within seconds, they were both hard, Spike lying on top of Xander. Neither of them quite sure of how they had ended up this way.

They kept kissing, as they thrust against one another, in a frantic desire to find release. Through their connection, they could feel each other's pleasure increasing their own. Their cocks rubbing together, their mouths not breaking apart, hands roaming over chests and back again, reaching for the rounded flesh of their asses. They moaned, guttural noises echoing in the room.

Suddenly, Xander gasped, breaking the kiss. His hot seed now coated his lover's chest, as wave after wave of pleasure rocked through his body. It was too much for Spike. He could feel the intensity of his lover's orgasm through their bond and he howled, his own sperm mixing with Xander's on their chests.

Breathing hard, they looked at each other and Spike collapsed, laying his head on Xander's chest, listening to the heavy beating of his heart. "Love this sound Xan. Makes me feel alive."

Xander chuckled, hugging Spike tighter. The vampire looked up at his mate's pleasure filled eyes and couldn't resist kissing him.

"We better make that phone call." Xander said, reluctantly pulling away from the gentle kiss. The young man could feel the incoming danger and it scared him. More than he cared to admit. But Spike knew. He could feel it. Even if it was still far away, there wasn't much time left.

"You're right love. Three hours and Dru'll be here. Maybe even less." Spike sighed and reached for the cordless phone that now lay on the floor next to the bed. Xander reached for the other phone and took it off it's cradle. Looking into each other's eyes, they breathed deeply and sighed, before the brunette dialed.

***

//Fuck!// Angel could feel his insane Childe getting closer. In an hour, she'd be in LA, only two hours away from Sunnydale. //Spike!// The dark vampire screamed in his mind. //Stop having sex and call me damnit!// Angel was dressed and ready to leave. He had even called Gunn some time ago and told him he wouldn't be around that day. //I wait for half an hour and if they haven't call, I g...//

As if on cue, the phone rang, loud and clear, startling the pacing vampire.

"Xander?" He answered, ready to bolt through the door and climb into his car as soon as the young man told him to.

"No."

"Yes."

"God! You can't believe how relieved I am! She's only an hour from LA! and worse... I can feel it. She's not alone."

"Who?" Spike asked. He could feel something weird, but couldn't identify it. And most of all, he couldn't get past the surprise of knowing his Sire was ready to do all this for him. For the first time since he'd woken up, he could feel the acceptance flowing along beside Drusilla's anger. He smiled, but quickly reverted to his worried expression, startling his lover.

"Demetrius." Angel answered, trying to sound calm. //How can I stay calm when HE's on his way. Damnit! Haven't seen him in almost two centuries... Why the hell does he care?//

*****
Part 2:

"Bloody Hell!!" Spike exclaimed.

"Who the hell is that?" Xander asked, curious, but suddenly overcome by fear. "Spike? what is it?"

"Demetrius is Darla's first Childe, Xander. She sired him about a hundred years before me. When she was still pretty much a fledgling herself. He is strong. Almost as strong as... well me. But on the other hand, he's insane. As in, completely. It's not even a Dru insane kinda insane. It's a « lets kill everyone and take a bath in their blood » kinda insane."

"Huh... well I kinda thought all vampires liked blood baths."

"Ewww!" Spike exclaimed, in a perfect mimick of Dawn's. "What do you think we are pet? We do have some sense of hygiene you know."

"Demetrius is not subtle in his kills. He's an artist. He kills for the love of killing, not to feed. And worse... he loves killing and... raping kids the most. The younger they are, the more he likes it. He's insane." Angel shook his head. "Look, I'm on my way. If I hurry up, I should be there in an hour and a half. We'll have to hurry when I get there. Spike?"

"Yes Sire." Spike answered, reverently. The thought of having Demetrius in Sunnydale frightened him like nothing else ever had. He would do anything to kill the bastard. Even in his pre-chip days, he had never approved of the other vampire's insanity. Oh, he could hold a conversation better than Dru most of the time, but all he could talk about was killing and raping and covering himself in blood. There was nothing subtle about him, nothing that would attract Spike's attention, or even his respect. All he had ever felt for Demetrius was disgust. And fear.

Angel's eyes opened wide and gulped as he heard his Childe's surrender at the other end of the line. It had been a long time since he's heard that word from Spike's mouth. Shaking his head, he continued. "You know what the preparations for the ritual are?"

"Not sure Sire. I know 'bout the candles, but that's about it."

"All right, I'll call you from the car to tell you everything. I really need to hurry. Have you got a cell phone?"

"Not me, but Xan does."

Smiling at the loving nickname, Angel wrote down the number and pocketed the paper. "Get to the Magic Box, I'll call you in 15 minutes."

"All right."

***

They hung up and looked at each other. "We've gotta go." Spike said, getting up and helping Xan to his feet. "You ok luv?"

"Yeah, m'all right... you? You're pretty freaked by that guy, aren't you?" Xander asked, as they cleaned up and dressed quickly.

"Yeah. He's fucking crazy." Spike shivered. "Don't really fancy seeing him again. Specially not near you."

Xander wrapped his arms around his lover and hugged him tightly. "It's all right. Angel's coming. We'll do this ritual and they'll leave. Dru and him." They looked in each other's eyes and kissed tenderly.

"All right, better go before I get you all messy again." Spike smiled.

Quietly, they got into Xander's car and headed directly to the Magic Box, waiting for the phone call. It felt like a race against time, which it pretty much was.

Xander was parking his car in front of the store when the phone rang, startling both men. They were so nervous, the tension was almost palpable.

"Yeah?" Spike answered, as the two lovers walked to the door. "Yeah, we're just here. Xan's unlocking the... Yeah, I know." He smiled tenderly at his lover, who was looking quizically at him. They entered the empty shop. "K, Sire, we're in. What do we need?"

Spike listened for a moment. "Ok, Ok, stop there a sec. Will ask. Dunno where all these things are in this bloody shop." He turned to Xander. "Love? We need..."

***

Half an hour later, Xander turned the key in the lock of his apartment, Spike waiting patiently by his side with a bag in his hand.

"Spike?" Xander asked, as they walked into the apartment, turning the lights on and opening the bag.

"Yeah?" Spike could feel his lover's fear and nervousness growing, as the feeling of danger kept getting closer and closer.

"Do you really think we should call them? Like Angel said... cause I don't know about you, but this is a bit embarrassing." The young man asked, blushing slightly.

Spike turned towards Xander, leaving the bag on the dinner table. "Love, it's the only way. If Dru and Demetrius get here while we're doing the ritual and interrupt us, there's no way we'll be strong enough to battle 'em. At least the witches and Buffy have the power to keep 'em away from us long enough. And the watcher's got some trick of his own." The vampire wrapped his arms around his lover. "B'sides, Giles already knows and we really need his help. He's got something we need for this."

"But what if he doesn't? Have the dagger I mean. Would that be bad?" Xander was feeling more and more insecure. His friends knew about him and Spike, and even accepted... kinda. But the thought of them being there while he and Spike... and Angel... The young man shook his head.

"The Poof said he talked with Rupes, made sure he had the dagger, just after your call a month ago. Don't worry luv. It's gonna be okay." Spike gently kissed his lover's lips. "And b'sides, s'not like they were in the same room as us, is it? They'll be outside, looking out for the baddies, not inside listening and watching."

Xander sighed. "All right, but YOU call Giles. Please?" He looked pleadingly at his lover.

"Bleedin' hell, stop with those eyes Baby, I'll do it, you don't have to use the big guns."

Xander chuckled. "All right, what do I do while you're making phone calls?"

"Get all the incense out and into the little 'incense stick' holders. Gotta have..." Spike stopped, counting. "Six of 'em. One for each window, that's four. One for the front door and one for the bedroom door. Don't place 'em there yet, gotta light 'em up all together." Spike finished speaking just as he was dialing the phone.

"That IS complicated." Xander mumbled, as he did what his lover had asked him to do. "Couldn't they just say, screw each other and be done with it? NO! they had to get this whole... candle, incense thingy going on... with the whole stinky stuff." The young man shook his head. "Well, you gotta do what you gotta do."

He prepared all the incense, leaving it all together on the table, waiting for Spike to finish. "Oi! Watcher! Don't forget the dag... yeah, I know, already asked you, just wanna make sure you don't... all right. Hurry. Oh! and call the slayer will ya? Get her and the witches to come 'round. You'll need 'em to fight Dru's army."

Spike smiled as he placed the phone back in the cradle without saying goodbye and walked over to Xander. "All done Love?"

"The incense's part is done... what's next?"

"Gotta light everything up with the same flame. So we better get all the candles out and lined up, too. Need to do it fast."

Together, they lined up the nine candles. "Spike? Why is there three candles of each... shape?"

"Everything goes by threes pet. There'll be three of us to do the ritual, so we need three candles of each kind. And yeah, we need three shapes of candles."

"Ok. So we have triangles, squares and round ones ? Ok I get that. Now, what does the incense do? Why the hell does it needs to stink?"

"The smell of incense will not appeal to the other vampires, so they'll think twice before coming here. S'pose to cleanse the apartment and our spirits, too." All the candles were now alligned on the table, next to the incense. Spike took a match out of the little box he always kept on him and looked at Xander. "Don't breathe luv." He whispered. Xander held his breath and watched Spike striking the match and starting to light the candles one by one, as fast as he could without burning his fingers, or extinguishing the flames. He was getting to the ninth candle when the flame just disappeared. "Bloody Hell!" The vampire roared. "Breathe now luv, gotta start all over again."

They quickly extinguished the candles and Spike struck another match, ready to go. Xander held his breath again, Spike lighting first one, then two, then... The door bell rang.

"Fucking bloody hell!" Spike screamed, as the flame burnt the tip of his finger. He sucked it into his mouth and looked at Xander, fear now overtaking him.

"Open the door Spike, Xander. It's just me."

Both men relaxed at the sound of Giles' voice. Xander walked to the door and opened it, as Spike blew out the candles he had lit and took another match out.

"What is he doing?" Giles asked, looking at Spike, who was bearing the most concentrated expression the watcher had ever seen on his face.

"He's trying to lit up all the candles and incense at once. Only trouble is, they're supposed to be lit by the same flame... and well, the matches just aren't long enough." Xander whispered, leading Giles into the living room, where they stood watching Spike.

Again, the match didn't last. Before Spike could say anything, Giles took a rectangular box out of the bag he was carrying and gave it to Spike. "They' re matches used for barbecues and other things that need long matches. They should work."

Spike smiled at him and took the box out of Giles' hands. "Told you we'd need him, luv. » He grinned at his lover.

Xander smiled and shook his head. "All right ! You win ! Now light those candles so we can start putting them where they're supposed to go."

"Lemme do that luv. Guess you and the watcher need to have a talk."

Xander nodded and looked at Giles. As their eyes locked, the young man looked away, blushing slightly.

"Xander?" Giles asked gently. "You do know you've made a big decision tonight, don't you?"

Xander nodded. "Yeah, I do Giles. It's... hard to explain in fact. But Spike makes me feel... me. And... it's wonderful. I know he loves me Giles and it's not even speculation or anything like that. It's real knowledge. I... I love him too. As weird as that may sound."

Giles smiled in understanding. "Spike is a mystery Xander. But I think you're the one able to solve it. There has always been something... unsettling about him. He really isn't like most vampires. Even 'I' know I should disapprove of all this, but I can't seem to be able to do so. You both are clearly very much in love. I have never seen you so happy as you are right now." Giles stopped, taking his glasses off and starting to polish them. "I am not one to speak my heart Xander and you know it. But right now, just know that I am very proud of you."

Xander could feel tears in his eyes at the words. He smiled lightly and hugged the older man. "Thanks Giles... means so much to me." He quickly withdrew, a bit ashamed and look down at the bag Giles was still carrying.

"What's in there?"

Giles lifted up the bag and placed it on the couch. "I brought pretty much everything we 'might' need tonight." He answered, taking out a small bundle and handing it to Xander. "It's the dagger Spike asked me to bring. It's very sharp ! Make sure you don't cut yourself." He added, as he watched the young man slowly unwrapping the millenium old weapon.

"Why is it so special?" Xander asked, as he examined the eagle design engraved on the handle.

"It is said to have been used by the very first vampire to ever bond with a human. He didn't want to mark his lover as he fed, so he used this dagger instead." Giles explained, as he took a closer look at Xander's mark on his neck. "Spike marked you. Where this blade leaves no traces, his fangs will." Giles went back to his bag and took an orb out. "For this part of the ceremony, I guess Angel and Spike want this dagger so it won't mark you. So you won't be recognized as Angel's mate as well as Spike's. I believe Spike wants to keep you for himself."

"I'm not complaining." Xander replied, smirking. "That's an orb of Thessula right? You think we might have some trouble with our souled friend?"

Giles blushed slightly. "I do know what the ritual implies Xander, and yes, I am afraid of some of the consequences, even though Angel assured me there shouldn't be any problem. It's better to be prepared, than to be sorry afterwards." Giles looked around at the room. "I think Willow, Tara and Dawn should stay in the living room. It will be quiet there for Tara and Willow to perform the protection spells and Dawn should be safe. Buffy and I will stay outside and we'll look closely for any signs of either Dru, or this Demetrius. I have read some tales of his... massacres and I am not looking forward to meeting him. Except maybe if it gives me the opportunity to stake him and then flush his dust down the toilet." Giles arranged his glasses. blushing.

"Wow. Angel and Spike are scared of him and YOU are getting all Ripper-y over it... guess we should hurry then."

They smiled and gathered Giles' things, just as Spike came back into the living room, having finished arranging the incense and candles. Just as Xander handed the dagger to Spike, the door bell rang again.

Part 3:

The dark haired vampire stood nervously outside Xander's door. //Open up! They are so near it hurts.// He thought.

The door cautiously opened. "Angel?" Giles' voice startled the vampire.

"Yes. Can I come in?"

Giles opened the door wide and Angel could see Spike and Xander watching intently, obviously nervous. "Come on in Angel." Xander said, tensed.

The vampire smelled the apartment as he entered. "You've lit the candles and the incense?" He asked, looking at the two lovers. They nodded. "All right, we should get this done." He turned to Giles. "You're gonna watch our backs?"

"Yes. Not literally of course, since I do not want to be a part of this." Giles answered blushing. "But the girls and I will watch ... your backs, as you say."

Angel nodded. "We'd better get ready. Spike? Xander?" He looked at them and then pointed at what he guessed was the bedroom. He nodded once at Giles and followed the two lovers in.

"Angel?" Giles asked, just before the vampire disappeared behind the door. "How many of them are there?" He asked seriously.

"I don't know. Beside Dru and Demetrius, they must have minions and probable some of Demetrius' Childer, but. there can't really be more than a dozen. They're moving too fast and I would feel them. From what I can sense." Angel paused, trying to listen to his inner sense. "There's probably only one of Demetrius' Childer with them. He's about as strong as Spike. maybe a little less. The others are your ordinary vamps. Stupid and worthless."

Giles nodded. "Does this. Demetrius have a weak point? Something we can use to our advantage?"

"He never watches his back. Kill all his minions and Childer and he'll pretty much be powerless." Angel turned back towards the room, before adding. "Giles? Make sure Dawn is as far away from him as you can. He's. got a taste for young virgins." He whispered.

Giles looked up in shock, but the door was already closed.

***

"Willow, Tara, you're going to stay in here with Dawn. Under NO circumstances can she be out of your sight. Dawn? Do you understand?" Giles asked the teenager.

"Yeah, but I don't understand what we're doing here exactly." She asked, stomping her foot down and looking bored.

"Something happened between Xander and Spike. They're bonded. You can research this all you want later, all of you. What matters now is that this Bond shouldn't have been, because for vampires of the line of Aurelius, one thing is sure: No vampire bonds with a human. They are coming here to try and kill Xander and Spike, so that this 'atrocity' will not have time to live to full growth."

"Full growth?" Buffy asked, from the other end of the room, where she was loading crossbows. Three were already waiting beside the door.

"When the Bond is settled, they will both be powerful. Even Xander. They'll be out of every vampire's reach. But for now, they're weak. Weaker than we've ever known them. They are overwhelmed by the change and very much exhausted. That's why the vampires are attacking now, because Xander and Spike are at their lowest."

"What's Angel's deal?" Buffy asked again, casually, looking at her watcher, as she finished loading the last crossbow and started going through the stakes.

"He's here to settle the Bond, so that the line of Aurelius won't be able to come near Xander and Spike. If Spike's Sire accepts the Bond, then no one can defy it." Giles answered, surprised by Buffy's question and by her tone of voice. "For the moment, I think we should put aside the meaning of the Bond. We really need to get ready." Buffy nodded and went back to the weapons.

Giles motionned for Willow to follow him. "Willow, I want you to put a soundproofing spell around Xander's bedroom. Don't ask questions ! Just do it."

Willow raised her eyebrows, but said nothing. She only had one question to ask. "Which way do you want the spell to go? They don't hear us, or we don't hear them?" She smiled wickedly and cheered inside as she watched the older man blush.

"Both ways, please." Giles answered. "And Willow, I have an orb of Thessula. If anything."

The witch nodded and went back to Tara, shaking her head. She explained the plan to her lover and they both prepared everything.

Giles turned to Dawn. "You stay in here, under no circumstances are you leaving this room. Is that clear young lady?" He glared.

"But why can't I."

"One of the vampires on his way here is known for his taste in young girls. and boys. If he finds you, you are pretty much dead. You understand that?" His voice softened.

Dawn stared at Giles in shock. She gulped and nodded. "I'll stay in here, promise."

"You can sit by the window, and tell us when you see them coming." He handed her a walkie-talkie. "You know how to use this." The girl nodded again. "All right." Giles turned to the witches. "It's time. You must bring forth the protection wall around the apartment first, then the building." They nodded. "Fine, Buffy."

"All set, just awaiting your command, Sir." She smiled lightly, as she waved at all the weapons lined up next to the door. Five crossbows, all loaded, swords, and a stack of stakes. "I brought all the stakes I had. Mr. Pointy stays with me." She added, patting her coat pocket.

Giles smiled back at her. "Good, I think they really aren't far. We should take our positions."

"They're here!" Dawn shouted, pointing at the window. Not losing any time, Buffy and Giles looked at each other and each picked a weapon, before hurrying out of the apartment, closing the door behind them.

***

Angel closed the door behind him and looked around the room. It was lit only by the nine candles. The smell of the incense filled his senses and he turned to look at Spike and Xander, who were now sitting on the bed. The human was wrapped in Spike's arms. Angel smiled. They really did make a cute couple. "Spike? Where have you put the herbs?"

"On the nightstand Sire. Here." Spike answered, reaching for the bowl and herbs. He had had no idea what do to with them, so they'd waited for Angel's arrival, before preparing them.

"Good." Angel said, as he took off his duster and then his over shirt.

Xander gulped. "S'ok luv." Spike said, gathering the young man closer to him. "We'll do much more later. Enjoy. S'probably the first and last time I'll let you enjoy another body than mine." He smirked, as he captured Xander's lips in a fierce kiss.

"I'm quite happy with your body, thank you very much." The young man replied as they broke apart.

//They are beautiful.// Angel thought, amazed by the chemistry between the other two men. He had never seen such love and understanding between two beings. Yet, they weren't being too 'romantically sappy' for the older vampire's taste. //I wish they'll have a very long time together. They both deserve it.// He finished his thought tenderly, as he put the herbs in the bowl. "Spike? Do you have the oil?" He asked after rummaging around a little.

"Oh! Sorry, it's here." Spike turned away from his mate's regard and reached under the bed for the assorted toys they kept under there. He took out a bottle of massage oil, that Angel had told him would be exactly what they needed.

The dark vampire smiled. "That's perfect." He looked back at the two men on the bed. "I'll explain to you both what we're going to do before we start, so you know exactly where we're going here, ok?" Xander and Spike nodded. "All right. As you probably guessed, the first step is to take off our clothes. If you're uncomfortable with this," he added, looking at Xander. "You can wear a robe. There's no problem with that, at least for the first part of the ritual. What counts is for you to be relaxed and as comfortable as you can. If you are in any way feeling like you can't go through with it, just tell me, ok? You need to know you DO have a choice."

Xander nodded yet again. "I made my decision Angel. We'll get this done."

Angel smiled and continued. "All right then. I can promise you that I won't stare at you."

"You implying my mate's not worth being stared at Peaches?" Spike joked.

"No Spike, quite the contrary actually, I just don't want him to be uncomfortable."

"He fancies you." Spike whispered in Xander's ear, initiating a giggle from the young man and knowing full well that Angel could hear.

"Honestly, I do." Angel admitted without reserve. "But we're not here for that, even though I agree it is a plus. We need to get this over with, Spike, they are getting closer by the second." He glared at the younger vampire, who nodded and started taking Xander's clothes off, starting with his shirt.

"All right," Xander started. "we need to be naked, and after.?" He trailed off, his voice strained, as his lover gently caressed his chest.

"After that, we'll rub the oil over our hearts. First, Spike will oil your heart, Xander, then you will do his. Finally you'll both rub oil over mine with the same hand you used for each other's. When this is done, I'll put some oil over the herbs and burn them. If the Bond accepts our plea."

"The Bond needs to 'accept'?" Xander asked confused.

"The Bond's like an entity pet, it's not just a current between us, it's something outside of us that ties us together. It's very difficult to explain." Spike replied.

"I get that." Xander snuggled deeper into Spike's embrace, as Angel proceeded to explain the extent of the Bond.

"It's a bit like asking for a gift, Xander. I will ask the Bond to recognize my acceptance as standing for all the order of Aurelius, not just myself. By that I need to. test you, if you will. First, if your intents are pure and you wish no harm to me or Spike, then the oil on your heart, mine and Spike's will burn, but not in a painful manner. More like hot water. After this part, Spike will prepare you, while I meditate. Spike's preparation is a form of acceptance of what's to come. If he was to refuse to prepare you, it would be as if he'd made a claim that you were NOT to be touched by any one else, even me and that he would be the only one to protect you. And that wouldn't be very wise." He added.

"What does he need to do to prepare me? Just. stretch me?" Xander asked, suddenly blushing.

"No. There is that, but also, you need to be completely relaxed, so he'll massage your back and every other place. I'm sure he knows what will keep you relaxed. All the while using only the same oil." Angel made sure Spike understood. The blonde vampire nodded, taking off his own shirt, after tossing Xander's on the floor. Angel smiled. "All right ! Once you're ready, we'll get to the. claiming part." He continued before Xander could interrupt him. "It's not the same form of claiming, don't worry. It's a bit as if I was declaring you worthy of my protection by. taking you."

Xander nodded. "I get it. It's not like you're trying to make me your pet or something."

"Really not." Angel replied, shocked. "Spike would stake me in a second if I ever tried that." Angel smirked. "But I CAN claim Sire's rights after that."

Xander felt suddenly scared. "What's that mean?"

"Means he can come here whenever he wants and shag us senseless. Without needing an invitation, just by bloody making me submit to him."

"Oh." Xander replied, shocked, but not displeased. This could be fun. In a 'restrained' kind of way.

Angel shook his head. "It could, but that doesn't mean I would. I could've claimed Sire's rights on Spike's body for more than a hundred years and I haven't. Not that I didn't want to lately," He leered at his Childe. "but I believe in freedom of choice. Anyway, on with the rest. I'll. take you, while Spike stays with you, showing his own acceptance by watching us and being with you during all of it. When. I'm. done with you." If he could have blushed, Angel would have. Furiously. "It will be Spike's turn, but this time, he'll submit to me, while you take him." Xander nodded and Spike followed, after rolling his eyes.

"Lets get it on pets. I guess after the whole submitting thing, it should be done?"

Angel nodded, then shook his head, remembering something. "I forgot something." He smacked his forehead. "Something important in fact."

Xander raised his eyebrows questionningly. "Wh."

"The bloodplay." Spike answered, before Xander could formulate his question.

"Yes." Angel replied. "That will take place before we have sex. It should. initiate it in fact. I'll explain to you as we go. We need to get started." He added quickly, as his senses became overwhelmed with dread. Drusilla and Demetrius were here.

Spike turned back to Xander and quickly, all three men shed their clothing. They passed the oil in silence, coating their fingers. Using his right hand, Spike rubbed over Xander's heart gently, reverently. The young man repeated the gesture before both of them turned to Angel. Mesmerized by the sight of the older vampire's naked body, Xander stared for a second, before Spike tugged on his arm and motioned for him to reach for Angel's chest. Together, a bit awkwardly, they rubbed Angel's heart. The dark vampire then put oil over the herbs and struck a match, dropping it into the bowl.

As the herbs began to burn, the scent scattered around the room and the three men could feel their chests heating up almost past the point of comfort. But for Xander, it felt wonderful. Like a precious gift. It burned him right to his soul, engraving the loving feeling that came with the heat. It didn't subside. Not even as Spike gently lowered him onto the bed, turning him onto his stomach. Not even as his mate's hands started roaming over his back, massaging him, willing him to relax, with only his caresses and his purrs. Xander fell into a kind of trance, hearing Angel's chants in the distance.

*****
Part 4:

Buffy ran down the stairs, Giles following closely behind. Suddenly, she stopped, picking up her walkie-talkie. "Dawn? How far are they?" She asked, worried. She couldn't sense them. She looked at Giles, fear in her eyes.

"They're just crossing the street Buffy, right down in front."

"How many of them?"

"10. no 12." The girl replied quickly.

Buffy shook her head. "Are Willow and Tara done with the protection spells?"

Dawn took a second to answer, as she asked the witches. "They're done with the first one, the one around the apartment. They're starting the second. But they're getting worried."

Giles shook his head. "They won't have time to build it up. Tell them to let it go and concentrate on blocking the vampires. A simple wall spell should work to hold them out of the building until we get there."

Buffy nodded and quickly repeated this to Dawn. She then put the walkie-talkie back in her pocket, quickly kissed Giles' lips and started walking quickly to the exit. The man took a second to regain his senses and followed her.

He found her outside the building, standing in front of the dozen vampires, blocking their way in. If they wanted to pass, they'd have to go through her. "What are you doing here?" She glared at Drusilla. "Following the path to your death?"

"Not the path to my death, little girl. My pets got themselves connected and it burns." The dark vampiress pouted slightly, one hand reaching for her chest while the other held another vampire's hand. //Probably Demetrius.// Giles thought. He looked at Buffy and then back at the vampires.

"Stand back. All of you. There is nothing here for you to take." The Slayer continued.

Suddenly, Demetrius waved and all the minions attacked at once. Drusilla smiled at Demetrius and blew him a kiss. "Thanks uncle Dem." She walked past the fight, Buffy and Giles too overwhelmed to see her. Content with himself, the small, well built young man settled down to watch, another man standing by his side.

"You see, my boy, the Slayer is very well trained. But she will never win this fight." Demetrius grinned. "My niece's already inside their fortress, she'll bring them all down." He finished with a smirk, patting his Childe's shoulder.

By that time, Buffy and Giles had managed to stake a couple of vamps and instead of taking the rest of them individually, they fought together, back to back. Buffy was plunging her stake through the fifth vampire's heart when Paulo turned to his Sire. "Demetrius? Can I fight?" He asked, never taking his eyes off the girl.

The older, but smaller, vampire smiled. "Sure, my son. Have some fun." He waved towards the fight. As he watched the younger vampire stalking towards the battle field, Demetrius couldn't help but feel pride at his Childe's grace. Barely 16 when he had been turned. And a sweet kill at that. Demetrius had loved the way he had struggled against his body, as the older vampire had taken him and fed from him. He had been so sweet and innocent, that Demetrius hadn't been able to let him go. "And now, he's going to kill himself a Slayer." He shivered with anticipation, rubbing his hands, his eyes sparkling with excitement like a kid being handed a candy bar.

"Giles! Behind you!" Buffy yelled, as she staked one of the two vampires left fighting her.

Giles shoved the minion attacking him away and turned around with a kick, effectively stopping the other vampire's approach. He could tell this one was stronger. //The Childe.// He thought, reaching for his stake and plunging it through the heart of the vampire coming back from behind.

Demetrius took in the sight before him. He looked sadly at his Childe, before hurrying past the fight and following his niece's steps. He found her standing before an opened door, watching what was happening inside and talking.

"Oh the sweet kitten is bright. She's all shiny." The vampiress was whispering, reaching in front of her, one hand still on her breast. She turned to Demetrius. "It burns, uncle, burns, burns, burns." She repeated, as she pressed her head to the older vampire's chest.

"Shhh, my little one. We need to get inside to stop this atrocity. There isn't much time left." He walked to the door and looked inside. "Oh the pretty little girl. Come over here, my sweet little one." He leered at Dawn, who was looking at them in shock.

She quickly took her walkie-talkie. "I don't know what you're doing Buff, but they're here! Get your ASS OVER HERE!" She screamed the last part, feeling herself drawn to the door. "Fuck, Buffy! Help! Tara and Willow are going to pass out!" She added, looking at the exhausted witches on the floor. They couldn't hold the protection spell much longer. "I need you!"

***

Now completely relaxed and ready, Xander sat cross-ledged in the middle of the bed. "All right," Angel started. "Spike, you need to be in front of him. Where is the dagger?" He asked. Xander pointed to the bundle on the nightstand and Angel smiled back at him. "Good. Spike, you'll have to cut Xander. On the opposite side of your mark, while you are going to bite him at the exact same place you did earlier. Is that clear?" Both men on the bed nodded. Taking the dagger, Angel sat behind Xander. "We don't need to take a lot of blood, a little nip will be enough. Follow me through everything and all should go well." //I truly hope so. If the bloodlust does it's work, everything should go smoothly from now on. Spike and I are way too tense.//

Gently, Spike dragged the dagger along Xander's shoulder, cutting just deep enough for blood to come to the surface. "It doesn't hurt." Xander whispered in wonder.

"It's why we have this dagger luv." Spike replied, kissing his lovers' lips, before trailing down to his mark. He bit down just as Angel drapped his lips over the wound on the other side.

Overwhelmed by the sensuality of the act, Xander bucked and moaned, both Angel and Spike's pair of hands coming to rest on his hips, to keep him from moving. "Fuck!" Xander gasped, his erection poking into his mate's stomach. He needed the friction.

Angel groaned, as the sweetness of Xander's blood touched his tongue. So pure. He took a mouthful, before gently licking the wound clean and watching it fade to nothing. Spike did the same on the other side, though his mark didn't fade. It was raw looking, but it's meaning touched Spike to the very core of his being. He had a mate.

Panting, Xander watched as Spike squeezed him tightly to his chest and dragged his Sire's head to his own throat. In a haze, they bit deeply, reaffirming a bond long forgotten. Sire and Childe. Strong, together. It was with relief and happiness that Spike and Angel welcomed the bond back into their lives. It felt right.

Finally, their mouths bloodied and their game faces on, they turned to Xander. Without waiting for his Sire's command, Spike knew what to do. He pushed his lips against his mate's and shared the blood in his mouth with him, their kiss passionate and sweet, rough and tender all at the same time. Finally, they withdrew and Spike helped Xander turn around to face Angel, who was now completely aroused and waiting eagerly for what was to follow. He captured Xander's lips in a fierce kiss. As Angel was sharing his blood with his mate, Spike nuzzled the beautiful neck, his fingers reaching between the young man's cheeks, sensuously dragging over the well stretched hole, making sure he would still be ready for his Sire's entry.

Finally the kiss ended and both men looked into each other's eyes in a daze. Angel smiled and shook himself out of his stupor. This was even better than he had anticipated. He motioned for Xander to lie down on his stomach and Spike to stay by his side. The dark vampire knelt between the young man's legs and quickly coated his erection with the oil. He lifted Xander's hips until he was almost kneeling, his head pillowed on Spike's chest. Completely relaxed and excited beyond belief, Xander waited eagerly for the first tinge of pain that would indicate the older vampire's entry. He couldn't wait.

As Xander's breath became harsh, Spike began purring, urging his mate to breathe deeply. Looking at him, bent over like this, Angel kneeling between his legs, Spike couldn't believe he had ever been this hard in his life. It was the hottest scene he'd ever witnessed.

Slowly, Angel pushed into Xander's hole, stunned at the tightness and heat. "Holy fuck." He gasped, grasping the young man's hips and thrusting in gently until he was completely inside.

Xander moaned deeply and closed his eyes. No one other than Spike had ever taken him that way. Angel felt. different. But the feeling was so good. Overwhelming, mind-blowing. Urging Angel to move, he pushed back and gasped in pleasure.

Angel couldn't control himself. When he felt Xander's push, he started thrusting, slowly at first, then faster and faster, into the warm hole, making sure to hit Xander's prostate with each thrust, softly caressing the smooth cheeks as he pushed in, and then pulled out hard and fast, bringing Xander closer to the edge with him.

Xander groaned and looked into his lover's eyes. Spike gently caressed his cheek and kissed him. The young man moaned into the kiss, as Angel thrust against his prostate, sending bolts of pleasure to his cock. Suddenly, Xander needed more. Even if the pace was fast and hard, Angel was still being too careful. Grinning at Spike, the brunette rolled his eyes and silently asked his mate to help him.

Spike looked at him quizically before smirking back. He knelt on the bed and helped Xander to kneel up, as Angel continued to pound into him from behind. Xander kissed Spike quickly and then pushed Angel off of him, whimpering at the loss.

"What the fuck is wrong Xan..." Angel looked at Xander in shock.

"Shut up Sire. Let us do this." Spike answered, pushing Angel onto his back. Not losing a second, Spike picked Xander up and helped him straddle Angel's hips. He held his Sire's cock as Xander slammed back down, impaling himself. "Holy fuck!" Xander moaned loudly, his eyes closed in pleasure.

Angel arched his back, thrusting deeper into Xander's hole. Well, now he had no problem at all with this new development.

Spike stayed behind Xander, his hands holding his mate's hips, as he nuzzled the beautiful neck. "So hot pet. That was a bloody good idea." He moaned, as Xander's movements brought friction to his aching member. "Ahhh, bloody good."

Xander braced himself on Angel's stomach, his hands opening and closing with each movement of his hips. As the position grew tiring, he felt Spike's hands becoming more active, helping him thrust up and down on Angel's cock.

Angel groaned. This was so good. His hands flew to Xander's hips, tangling with those of his Childe, lifting Xander up and down. The dark vampire watched, as Xander threw his head back and rested it on Spike's shoulder, the other vampire licking his neck.

Spike kissed his lover's cheek, just as one of his hands left one hip and moved forward, grasping the youth's erection in a tight fist. Xander groaned. "You like this don't you pet? My Sire's cock deep inside your body, opening you up for him. He's big isn't he?" Spike whispered hoarsely in Xander's ears, knowing how hot dirty talk made him.

"You feel him touching your prostate, pushing deep inside your tight, hot hole. His cock hard, just for you." He licked Xander's ear, making Xander shiver in exitement. "Feel my hand on you, I'm gonna make you cum, love. His dick filling you up, my hand stroking you, stroking your hard cock. Making you cum all over Angel's hot body. While his cock rams into your tight, hot hole. I know you love it Xan."

Xander whimpered and slammed down one last time, his orgasm ripping through his body. His cum splattered onto Angel's chest, as his body surrendered to the pleasure.

Angel closed his eyes, overwhemed by the feeling of Xander's tight entrance contracting around his cock as he came. The feeling of the young man's cum on his chest sent the older vampire over the edge and he came deeply inside Xander's hole.

His body limp from the force of his orgasm, Xander let himself fall into his lover's embrace. Spike smiled and laid Xander back down on the bed, beside Angel. The dark vampire looked up at his childe and smiled. "Lick it off Spike, I know you're craving it." Spike grinned back and leaned over his Sire's chest, gently licking Xander's cum away.

Angel grabbed Spike head in his hands and urged him to continue. When there was no more of Xander's cum on Angel's belly, Spike kissed Angel's mouth passionately, sharing his lover's essence with his Sire.

Finally they broke the kiss and Angel smiled. "On your knees, Childe." He ordered.

Without a second's hesitation, Spike sat on his heels and waited for his Sire's next order. By that time, Xander had recovered from his mind blowing orgasm and was looking at the two vampires intensily. "You look hot like that." He whispered hoarsly to Spike, as Angel knelt in front of him.

Spike smirked back at his lover. "Don't push your luck, pet. Soon as we get this done, I'm gonna fuck you into oblivion."

Xander grinned evily. "I sure do hope so."

Angel smiled at their words and, before Spike could make another comment, he grabbed the younger vampire's head in his hand and leaned in for a fierce and possessive kiss. As they broke off, panting, Angel pushed Spike's head down.

"Suck me Spike, I know you want to." He whispered hoarsely. He shivered, as he felt Spike's mouth on him, his tongue darting out to lick Angel's cockhead.

Xander groaned at the image before him. He knelt and stalked towards the two men, placing himself behind Spike. He ran his hands up and down Spike's back, as the vampire deep throated his Sire and then withdrew, sucking hard.

Angel groaned at the wonderful feeling of pain/pleasure that coursed through him and looked at Xander. Their eyes locked and they licked their lips.

*****
Part 5:

Buffy shoved her stake through her last vampire when she heard her sister on the walkie-talkie. "Dawn?" She yelled in horror. She turned to Giles and he nodded for her to go. Only this one last vamp and they'd all be gone. Except for the two older ones.

Giles fought with all his skill, but he was quickly losing. Despite his child-ish appearance, Paulo proved to be a terrible adversary, precise and strong. Finally, the older man saw an opening and he raised his stake, only to find himself pushed back against a tree, knocking his head in the process, but thankfully not passing out. With all that was left of his strength, he waited until Paulo was completely bent over him, ready to bite and drain him dry, before lifting his stake and pushing it right through the vampire's heart. It was a close call, like so many others had been, but Giles had done it. Smiling, he laid back against the tree and passed out from exhaustion.

***

Cursing herself for letting Demetrius pass her by, Buffy ran inside and up the stairs. She couldn't believe how stupid she had been. She stopped abruptly, trying to catch her breath, taking in the scene before her. Drusilla was pacing behind Demetrius, who was talking to someone inside the apartment. From the atrocities he was speaking, the Slayer knew he was talking to Dawn.

Too soon, Drusilla spotted her and started walking in her direction. Not waiting for the discussion to start, Buffy attacked her with a kick, sending the vampiress sprawling across the floor.

Dawn couldn't stop. She had no will. She kept walking towards the door, her body hypnotised by the old vampire's voice.

"Take a stake Dawnie." Willow whispered, just loud enough for Dawn to hear. "Beside the door." She finished, before passing out in her lovers arms.

Finding a little of her will back, as Demetrius was distracted by the fight taking place behind him, Dawn reached for the stack of stakes beside the front door and quickly grabbed two, shoving one inside her coat pocket.

Realising the young girl was escaping his hypnosis, Demetrius turned back to her and leered. "Come over here, beautiful. You smell so sweet. Innocent one."

The girl tried to resist the alluring voice, but found herself walking even faster towards the vampire. As she reached the doorway, Demetrius grabbed her arm, just as Drusilla screamed, Buffy's stake piercing her heart.

Turning around swiftly at his niece's cry of pain, Demetrius stared in horror at the dust that was settling. "Now Dawn!" Buffy screamed.

Without another second's hesitation, Dawn lifted her hand and brought it down, plunging the stake through the vampire's back, narrowly missing his heart. Demetrius screamed in agony, sinking to his knees, completely open to Dawn's next attempt, which landed with deadly accuracy. Panting, Buffy reached for Dawn and they hugged tightly, watching the dust settle in the hallway.

"Where's Giles?" Dawn asked finally, as the panic went away.

"Outside. There was still a vamp left." Buffy suddenly tensed. "We should go and make sure he's all right." She looked inside the appartment. "Tara?"

"Yes?" The blonde witch replied.

"Will you and Willow be alright?"

"Sure. You go make sure Giles is alright, Willow should come around soon. Don't worry. The spells exhausted her, that's all." She smiled encouragingly.

Buffy smiled back before running back outside, Dawn in tow.

***

Xander and Angel were kissing madly, tongues and lips dueling for dominance, both trying to get the upper hand. Finally they withdrew, panting, as Spike encased Angel's cock down to the root. The dark vampire arched his back and groaned, gripping Spike's shoulders hard. "So good Spike! Such a great cocksucker. That's it Childe, suck me off."

Xander looked around for the oil. He grabbed it and quickly coated his fingers. He thrust two fingers inside Spike, hard, without warning. The vampire growled on Angel's cock, sending shivers coursing down the older vampire's spine.

Not able to wait anymore, Xander withdrew his fingers and thrust into Spike's tight hole, hard. "Fuck! Spike! God! So good!"

Angel groaned his approval, as Spike started fondling his balls, squeezing them, just as his mouth was bringing the older vampire close to the edge.

Xander thrust harder and harder with each movement of his hips, driving Spike crazy. The young vampire was returning the favor for his Sire, sucking in earnest, using all the tricks he had learned over the years, to push Angel over the edge.

Feeling his orgasm approaching, Xander reached under Spike and took ahold of his lover's erection, stroking in time with his thrusts. He felt as if it was very important that they come together, another part of the ritual that needed fulfilling, another little thing that would bring them closer. Angel opened his eyes, as he felt his balls tighten. He locked eyes with Xander and all of a sudden, they both moaned loudly and came inside Spike, just as the vampire shuddered and came in Xander's hand.

Completly drained, the three men fell in a tangle of limbs on the bed. As they lay there, panting, unable to move, all the candles in the room seemed to grow brighter, their flames growing. The three men opened their eyes wide. The oil on their hearts burned with the candles, the warmth spreading through them. The burning feeling grew until it became painful, burning right through their flesh. The three men moaned and curled up in pain, their hands clutching at their hearts.

All at once, the candles burned out, leaving the room in complete darkness, only pierced here and there by the moon's light, casting shadows across the men's bodies. As the pain subsided, Angel uncurled himself and opened his eyes. That had not been a part of the plan. Unless it was a part of the ritual that wasn't written down in the many books he had consulted. Or, perhaps.

Angel looked down at his chest and gasped. There, over his heart, burned into his flesh, was a tattoo. A heart and a rose entertwined with a ribbon holding them tight. "Holy fuck." He gasped. It was true then.

"What's it Peaches?" Spike asked, slowly sitting on the bed, one hand still over his heart. "That bloody burned!"

Angel shook his head. "Take your hand off your chest Spike, and look."

The younger vampire did as he was told and gasped as he saw the tattoo. "Bloody hell." He whispered in shock. He turned back to Xander, who was still moaning in pain. "Hey, luv, you all right?" Spike asked worriedly.

"It still hurts." Xander took a deep breath and sat up, leaning his head on Spike's shoulder. "What was that about?" He asked, his voice raw with pain.

Spike kissed his mate's forehead and gently removed the young man's hand from his chest. "Look luv, we've got a mark."

Xander looked down at his chest. He gently touched the still burning skin before looking at Spike's heart. Tenderly, he traced the pattern. "Wow. What does it mean?" He asked, whispering.

Angel scooted over to them, reaching for Xander's tattoo. "The heart is you. You see how your mark is bolder on your heart, than ours. » He turned to Spike. "Spike is the rose, blood red and spiked, very much him, don't you think?" Angel smiled happily to Xander.

"And the ribbon, it's you. You're. holding the rose and the heart together." He finished, tracing Angel's mark gently.

Spike looked at Xander's hand on Angel's skin and reached over, draping his own hand over Xander's. "It's protection luv, making sure we're all right. It holds us together, protecting us. Surrounding us with it's power." Spike himself was dumbfounded. This was leaving him speechless. He had never thought this would bind Angel to them. Surprisingly, Spike wasn't angry or frustrated by how it had turned out. He was feeling. content, truly happy. Finally at peace.

Angel leaned in and captured Spike's lips in a gentle kiss before moving on to Xander. The young man sighed and settled in Spike's arms, as they lay back down. "I'm happy Spike. Weird how I can feel sated, happy and relieved all at once."

Spike kissed Xander's hair and gently caressed his back. "I know the feeling love. Sleep now."

"Don't I get a kiss first?" Xander looked up, his brown eyes sparkling.

The young vampire laughed lightly, before capturing his mate's lips in a tender, searing kiss.

Angel wrapped his arms aroung both of them and rested his head on the pillow. There would be time for them to talk later. For now he was going to give in and sleep.

***

Watching as Spike and Xander slept, curled up against each other, Angel smiled warmly. They were safe. No one would come after them from now on. But why was the older vampire feeling lost? He felt alone and. He gently caressed his heart, the mark there reminding him that he wasn't alone. He shook his head, standing up. He quickly put on a pair of pants before walking out of the room, towards the kitchen. There, on the table, was an orb of Thessula. Angel smiled. //They thought of everything.// He approached the table and took the orb in his hands, studying it. At least, they hadn't needed it.

As he went to place the ball back on the table, a small paper caught his eyes. He gently put the orb down and took the small letter in his hands.

"Hey guys,

Hope you're ok. The three of you. Sorry Spike and Angel, but I dusted Dru.
She just annoyed me a bit too much today. Oh, and thanks to Dawn, a lot of
kids will be safer now. You should have seen her guys ! You would have been
so proud. Sure, she missed the first time, but she did it. She dusted a
three hundred year old vampire. I'm so proud of her.

Anyway, Willow and Giles passed out of exhaustion. Well, for Giles it was
also due to a blow to the head. What else is new? We're taking them home.
We know you'll all be safe now. And just so you don't worry Angel, I'm not
jealous, get over it. Kidding, I'm happy for you three. Especially you
Xander. You've finally found your place haven't you?

Well, I'll stop rambling. Sorry about that. Angel, make sure you stay until
tonight. I'm throwing a party and you ARE invited.

Bye guys, have fun today.
B."

Angel smirked. Buffy's words were so full of happiness and mischief, it was. unsettling. The dark vampire turned around and faced Spike. "You know, you should ask before reading over someone's shoulder."

"Yeah." Spike nodded. "So, guess the Slayer kinda got your work cut out for ya, doesn't she?" He smirked at his Sire.

Angel shook his head. "I need to go back to LA before the sun come."

"Oh no! You don't." Xander argued, his voice low, his hand gently brushing over Angel's mark. "There is no way you're getting out of this apartment before we get our revenge." He finished, his voice but a whisper, still shocked by how the ritual had ended.

"Revenge?" Angel asked, hope flowing through him.

"Well, you got to take me, and I took Spike, but no one took you." Xander leered at the older vampire, knowing that Angel was now a part of them. Sure, Xander and Spike were the bonded ones, in love with each other more than anyone else could be, but Angel was bound to them. He was entertwined around them, protecting them, holding them together, just like the tatoo showed. Xander understood that now.

Angel grinned. "Oh, we really can't let that happen can we?"

Laughing lightly, Xander and Spike dragged a 'fakingly non-consenting' vampire back to the room and threw him on the bed. Angel smiled tenderly, as he watched Spike hug Xander tightly to him, one hand brushing over their heart in a tender and possessive gesture.

"Own your heart now I do." Spike whispered.

"You already did before now, baby. You've had my heart for months already." Xander whispered back against the vampire's lips. "I love you."

"Love you too." Spike grinned in happiness and kissed Xander tenderly, closing the door with his foot.

The End.