By: Thursday's Child
My hands rested firmly on my hips as I surveyed the area before me. The bright sunlight shone down on the clearing and I chewed my lip nervously. I heard a branch snap in the distance along with several cheerful voices. I couldn’t wait here all day. I couldn’t just step out in front of a group of fellow students, either. I had to choose. Take a chance at getting hurt worse, or causing some of my peers to question my sanity even more. I wish I had a coin to flip. Sighing, I finally made a choice. I leapt over a log and through a group of trees, landing in front of Samuel and Yilla, two of the most popular students on campus. “Hi.” I said sheepishly, brushing my hands off. Samuel and Yilla along with three other teenagers glared at me. They looked over my bruised and battered body, then back at my face. Nicole, one of the blonde snobs, spoke up, “Gawd, Buffy! What kind of freak are you? What the hell happened to you?” I smiled brilliantly, then began to trounce off. “See you guys later.” I tossed a wave over my shoulder and left the gawking group behind. Once I was out of sight, I let out a sigh of relief and leaned against a tree to study my wounds. Most were already healed in the time it took me to get away from the preps. One particularly deep cut on my arm would need to be treated, but other than that, I was fine. That’s one of the advantages of being a Slayer. After a second’s rest, I headed back to my watcher. “Mulder, I thought we already had a vampire case on record. I don’t see why we have to chase down some more non-existent immortals.” My whining seemed to have no effect on my enthusiastic partner. “Not non-existent, Scully. That’s because these ones do in fact live, or not live. Whichever you prefer. Perhaps we should use the term ‘Undead American’? What do you think?” He bounced eagerly in his seat, searching for my approval. I massaged my temples, and turned to look sternly at Mulder. “I don’t care. Just, let’s get this over. We’re heading to the high school library, can you tell me why, exactly? The librarian is a vampire?” Mulder seemed immune to my ridicule. “Come on. You can’t tell me you aren’t excited about chasing down some good, old fashion, evil, can you.” “Actually, that’s exactly what I’m saying. I don’t see how you can be so unfettered about mythological beings. There is no logical bases for their existence anywhere in history. Yet you march along, following the reports of high school students and lonely housewives.” “Not just any high school. Did you know that this campus is centred on what is known as ‘The Hellmouth’ among the supernatural community?” I arched my brows in mock amazement and my partner continued. “Several different strange occurrences have taken place there. Two years ago, the principal was eaten by four students. A few weeks later, an earthquake destroyed the library during homecoming. Nearly a year later, there were multiple murder/suicides all taking place in the same rooms within a three day period. A few weeks later, another girl was killed in the library. Those are just specific incidents. It’s a weekly thing for lunch to turn into bugs and snakes; for bees to make an impenetrable curtain around the school; even dead bodies falling from lockers.” “Sorry to break it to you, Mulder, but none of that sounds like the work of your so called vampires.” “I know that, Scully. But don’t you think that amount of psychotic energy is a bit much. Especially since it took place in such small, seemingly quiet, town.” His eyes begged me to understand. “Besides, I was just talking about school happenings. Did you know that on an average night, nearly twenty humans go missing. Only 12 to 15 are ever found dead and their graves are often ‘robbed’. Of those who don’t die, 6-9 are often seen murdering others. 20 missing, every night, with a population of less than twenty thousand. Don’t tell me that’s not strange.” I didn’t reply, but I knew Mulder had a point. Still, I wouldn’t give him the satisfaction of knowing he was right. We rode the rest the way in silence. Sunnydale High! It looked like you average high school. Two stories high, with banners everywhere telling of recent victories or upcoming games. Students milled around during the lunch hour, some lying on blankets, some playing games, others studying. After a brief meeting with Principal Snyder, the student helper, Cordelia, led us to the library. The library was rather large and near the stacks was a round table. Several students and adults lounged there. I thought it was strange for children to stay inside during their free period. There were two boys, both munching on fruits. A red headed girl was sitting at a computer, typing furiously. Still, my attention was drawn to the remaining people in the centre of the room. Two girls of extreme difference-one tall, with dark hair, eyes and skin; the other, delicate, blonde, short and pale-were fighting. And I don’t mean arguing and slapping. Both appeared very strong as they threw punches, jabs and kicks. The two adult men stood at the sidelines, studying and appraising the girls. After a few seconds, the brunette went down, leaving the tiny blonde to cheer. The students at the table were happy as well. Beside me, Cordelia cleared her throat. Everyone jerked to face Mulder and me. “Cordelia!” The older man shouted harshly with an English accent. “Who are these people? Why did you bring them here?” “Jeez, Giles! Lay off! Snyder sent them down here. I wasn’t trying to mess up your sweaty book stacking. In fact, I would much rather be pol…” “Quite your bitching and get lost!” The blonde ordered. Cordelia shut her mouth with a snap, glared at the teenager, then burst out of the room. The man-Giles, I assume-approached us. “Sorry about that. Cordelia has the worst timing in the world. The girls were just exercising.” Everyone nodded eagerly. “I’m Rupert Giles, the school librarian.” He held out his hand politely. “Special Agents Fox Mulder and Dana Scully, with the F.B.I.” I announced, flipping open my badge while Mulder did the same, “We’re here to follow a vampire lead.” Suddenly, no one would meet my eyes. They scuffed their feet, cleaned their glasses, and became fascinated with the ceiling. Giles began to stutter, “Va-v-vampires? I didn’t know the government focused their man power on legends.” “Come on, G-man! They’re just pulling your chain. Right?” The brunette girl asked. “Actually, we’re quite serious. We work on special cases. I’m not sure if we need to speak with all of you, though.” I turned to Mulder, who pulled out a file with the names. “We need to see, Mr. Giles, B. Summers, A. Harris, W. Rosenburg, D, Oswald and C. Chase.” Mulder informed them. “Well, I’m outty!” The brunette still relaxing on the floor called out. She hopped up and slid over to Mulder, making her interest known. “Maybe later you and I can get up close and personal.” She whispered lowly. Then, she tugged on the sleeve of the younger adult and together, they headed for the door. “Find Cordy and send her!” The red head yelled. I turned back to my query. They all smiled uneasily. This was going to be a long day. As soon as Faith fell to the ground, I began my victory dance. That is until I heard Cordy clear her voice behind me. She stood in the doorway, leading a tall man and a short woman. Both were darkly beautiful and dressed nicely. The woman seemed stunned to see Faith and myself fight. The man, however, was pleased. I was silently shocked when they were revealed as F.B.I. agents. Then, they read a list of people they needed to question about vampires. Vampires! I had no idea the F.B.I. were concerned with the undead. Faith and Wesley left and after a second, Cordelia entered again. There was silence for a minute, then I spoke. I tried to sound nonchalant when I talked about the vamps, “So, you’re interested in the vampiric population?” Everyone giggled nervously. “We don’t have any blood sucking fiends. Except maybe the cheerleaders.” I threw an arm around Cordelia’s shoulder, “For example: Cordy!” Cordelia sneered and pushed me away. “As if! It was my association with you losers that made me ineligible for the team.” She turned to Mulder and Scully. “I really have nothing to do with these freaks. Can I go now?” Mulder smiled politely. “No, I’m sorry. We’ll try not to take so long. It just seems that in all the reports of supernatural activity around here, you are all present. Care to explain?” “Define supernatural.” Oz requested. “Anything not in the norm. Specifically Vampires, Monsters, Aliens, Werewolves. Any pagan or neo-pagan cults.” Scully quoted. Oz flinched at the mention of were-people and Willow made an odd squeaking noise. Mulder’s brow raised slightly. Suddenly, a bell rang, and we all jumped up zealously. “Sorry, we’d love to help, but if we’re late for class, Snyder will have a cow.” I offered in explanation. Xander, never missing a smart ass comment, added, “And she is being very literal.” We headed out the door before either agent could get a word in edgewise. I realised poor Giles was going to be left alone unless I did something. “Hey, G-man! Uh, come help me find…uh…something…in the storage closet.” My dear librarian followed eagerly. Once we were in the hallway, I led him to the nearest closet. “Giles, what are we going to do? How can I patrol with the feds watching my every move?” My ex-watcher pondered this for a second. “I’m sure they’re just questioning all the students. They mustn’t have any clue you are the slayer. Still, you’re going to have to be on your guard tonight. I’ll have Wesley go with Faith and I’ll stay by your side.” I smiled slightly. “Good, I can’t have you running off with another Slayer, now can I?” I slid my arms around his neck and looked both ways before kissing him briefly. “See you after school!” I called, leaving the room. I looked over at my partner and glared him down. “What was that?” I demanded of him. He had a puzzled and thoughtful appearance. “Maybe we should follow them tonight.” He suggested. “Mulder!” I shouted, “That could be considered stalking in some states.” My partner didn’t register the sarcasm in my voice. “Then let’s not get caught.” He said, shrugging his shoulders. We returned to our hotel for a late lunch, then headed to our rooms to change. I was rather distressed to find crosses nailed to either side of the door and windows. Inside, I found a dried blood stain on the floor near the television stand. What was wrong with the people in this town? Mulder came in the joining door without knocking and wiggled his brows at the blood. “Oh, Scully. You got the good room.” He exclaimed. “Mulder, get out of my room! You’re going to be keeping me out all night, chasing down the bogeymen. I’d really like to rest up before that. I can’t do that with you admiring the lovely blemish on my floor.” My partner had ignored every word that came out of my mouth, “Trade ya rooms?” he offered. I pushed him back through the opening and slammed the door in his face. Still, he yelled to me, “Remember, Scully, you’re safe. They can’t come in unless you invite them.” I mumbled a response and fell onto the bed, quickly going to sleep. I woke with a start and saw Mulder staring down at me, “Hey Scully, you’re finally awake.” “How long have you been watching me?” I asked offended. “Only a couple hours. Get dressed, it’s dark outside.” He tossed me a clean suit then waited expectantly. “Well, come on.” I sighed heavily and dressed quickly. Then, Mulder handed me a cross and a stick. “You can’t be serious!” I declared, studying the wooden objects in my hand. Mulder didn’t reply. Instead, he shoved me out the door. I headed for the car, but he drug me past it. “We’re walking, Scully. How can we get attacked in a car?” “Exactly my point.” I told him in a voice I reserve only for him and small children. Mulder would hear none of it. We walked to a park about three miles away and perched on the stone wall surrounding it. “What are we doing here? You don’t really expect to see vampires, do you?” “Come on, Scully, what kind of idiot do you take me for? What other reason would we have to be out here?” “That’s right. I forgot. We don’t have a life.” I replied, disheartened. It was two hours and five games of twenty questions later, that we heard the sound of approaching humans. We crouched on the wall behind a high tree. That’s when I caught sight of the source of the voice. A tall, extremely handsome man, with bright, bleach blonde hair was the first person I spotted. Beside him, was a woman who appeared to be in her late thirties. She had blonde, curling hair and she resembled the blonde we’d seen earlier in the library. The woman patted the man on the back sympathetically. “I understand, Spike. It’s best that you got rid of her. I mean, it sounded like a very destructive relationship.” The man shrugged uncomfortably. “See, Joyce, that’s my point. I’m not likely to find another woman who will enjoy beating me up as much as she did. The violence was great!” “Well, don’t worry. I’m sure there are a lot more women like Drusilla than you think. Some of them are probably much more faithful, too. You’ll find someone. It’s not like you don’t have all the time in the world.” “Thanks, Joyce, you always know what to say. Have you ever thought about becoming a therapist?” The woman laughed lightly. “Of course, I can see it now. Joyce Summers, the first vampire psychologist! I don’t know if Buffy would go for it, though.” Both laughed this time. Mulder looked over at me with a triumphant smile. “They said vampire, Scully.” “I heard them. I’m sure it’s some kind of joke. A lot of people joke about supernatural things.” Mulder gave me a ‘yeah, if you say so’ smile and turned back to watch the scene unfold. When I looked back, I saw most of the occupants of the library. “Buffy!” The bottle blonde shouted when he noticed the group. The blonde teen, now known as Buffy, narrowed her eyes. “What are you doing here? How many times do I have to kick your ass before you realise you aren’t wanted?” “Now, Buffy, Spike just needed someone to talk to. He wasn’t hurting me, I promise.” The older Summers called out. “Mom, stay out of this.” Buffy ordered. “Yeah, Joyce. You were helpful. But, every once in a while, I need a good fight to clear my head. You should try it someday.” Spike began to circle the young woman and the two simply sized one another up for a few seconds. The others didn’t appear too worried about this. Joyce turned to the remaining people. “So, Willow, Oz, how are you two doing? I heard last week was your year anniversary. And Xander? How are things with Cordelia? Has she seen the light?” The boy, now labelled as Xander, hung his head sadly, “Nope, I’m pretty sure she hates me for life.” Joyce nodded, understanding, then, everyone turned back to the fight. I was surprised to see even the librarian had accompanied the group of kids. Suddenly, my attention was drawn to Buffy and Spike. The two began to fight without abandon. There were no pulled punches or kicks. This was for real. After about five minutes of tumbling around the ground, the tall, muscled and evidently strong man was taken down by the slight girl. She smiled down at him wickedly, “Oh, is poor Spike out of shape?” She teased. Buffy reached for a wooden stake from her pocket but her mother stopped her. “Buffy, don’t hurt him. He didn’t do anything.” “Mom…” She tried to protest. “No, I won’t let you. I don’t see you hunting Angel, now do I? Unless Spike does something totally unforgivable, I won’t let you kill him.” Joyce declared. Buffy stared unbelieving at her mother and Spike stuck his tongue out at her. Willow, however was indignant. “He kidnapped me and Xander. And he tried to lick my neck.” Xander nodded violently. “And, and, he broke a bottle and threatened to kill me!” “Spike!” Joyce shouted, shocked. The bleach blonde looked at his shoes sheepishly. “What do you have to say for yourself?” “Sorry.” He said under his breath. I myself didn’t get much out of the conversation. I was too involved in trying to piece together what just happened. Beside me, Mulder nudged my shoulder and I fell forward. I turned angrily to my partner. “Mulder! Get down here, now.” He shrugged and slid down the wall much more gracefully than myself. As soon as I stood, I headed towards the group. Mulder pulled me back, “Wait.” He asked of me. I paused, then relented. Together, we turned back to watch. “Willow, Oz, Xander; you guys take my mom home. Then, stay inside till I get back, okay? Who knows what Spike brought back with him.” The teens nodded and led Joyce away. “So dead boy, why are you back, really?” Buffy asked. “No reason. I guess I just missed the Hellmouth.” Spike offered. Buffy snorted and Spike glared at her. He spoke again, “You know what? I don’t have to take this! I’m leaving!” Then, the tall blonde left. Buffy laughed at him, then turned to Giles. “What’s up with him? I mean, he doesn’t have a soul. Does he?” The librarian shrugged. “I’m not entirely sure. Maybe Drusilla rubbed off on him.” The two stared at each for a second before bursting into giggles. Then Buffy tossed herself onto Giles’ body. Her slender, short legs wrapped around his waist and her arms around his neck. The stunned man stumbled for a second before steadying them both. “Got ya!” The girl declared. Giles smiled, “Indeed.” He agreed before kissing her soundly on the lips. I looked up to Mulder, finding him just as shocked as myself. Correct me if I’m wrong, but it is rather odd to see an 18 year old kissing her 40 something librarian. After a few minutes of watching the two make out, Buffy pushed him away, “Giles, someone’s coming!” She warned. He lowered her to the ground and handed her a wooden stake. Then, Giles removed a cross from his pocket. They moved to stand back to back and waited. Three large men wearing masks jumped from the bushes and attacked them. This fight wasn’t playful like the other two I’d witnessed. As far as I could tell, they were fighting to the death. I pulled my gun from the holster and eased forward. Mulder was at my side when we came close. Buffy was about to stake one of the men in the heart when I called out for her to stop. The girl didn’t even pause and I watched in horror as she stabbed the man. Then, before I could react the body began to shimmer, turn to dust, then explode. Quickly, Buffy repeated the action with one of the others and the third took off. Then, the child turned to me. “What the hell are you doing here?” She demanded of me. I stammered something incoherent and turned back to my partner. He was looking as lost as me. Giles rushed over to us quickly, “How long have you been watching?” He asked nervously. “Long enough.” Mulder replied happily. I sighed. Somehow, I had the impression that this night was going to last forever. Giles began to rub his nose while Buffy was busy pacing the length of the wall. Finally, the young girl stopped and turned back to us. “Come on, you have to get inside before anymore come.” She grabbed my sleeve as well as Mulder’s and tugged us along behind her. A short time later, we arrived at a moderate home where all the students as well as Buffy’s mother were gathered. “Hey, Buff, what are the feds doing here?” Xander asked, standing to greet us. Buffy grimaced. “You don’t want to know Xand.” She replied despondently flinging herself onto the couch. “They saw. They know.” “Saw?” Willow asked, not understanding. A second later, the light bulb lit in her head, “Oh. OH! They saw!” “Oh, my!” Joyce exclaimed, leaving the room. The remaining people turned to Buffy, waiting for a further explanation. “Okay, you want to know what I like to do in these situation?” Oz asked and everyone turned to him expectantly. “What?” Xander and Buffy chorused. “Actually, I’ve never been in a situation like this before. I just wanted to sound useful.” Everyone nodded as if this kind of response was normal. I focused my attention on Buffy and spoke, “Do you have an explanation?” She looked up at Giles, “Well, I suppose you wouldn’t believe me if I said I was a vampire slayer.” She replied. I smiled unbelievingly. “That’s a very nice response, but we’d like the truth. We’re federal agents.” But Mulder beamed at the young woman. “So, you’re the Chosen One? I’ve read a lot about a few of you. That must make Mr. Giles your Watcher.” Mulder stated. Buffy turned to Giles wonderingly. “Mulder.” I chided after a long silence. “My partner can sometimes let his imagination get away with him.” I offered in explanation. No one commented. “And Scully is often described as sceptical among the supernatural community.” Mulder added. “So, tell me everything there is to know. I’ve been dying to meet you.” Before Buffy could reply, another handsome man entered the room. Mulder and I headed away from the newcomer, but the rest of the group were little more than startled. “Angel.” Giles greeted tersely. “Hey, what’s going on?” Angel inquired. “Who are they?” “Agents Mulder and Scully. Don’t you feel left out?” Cordelia asked as she entered behind the man. “Hey guys! I found your favourite undead on the streets and figured you would be here. Besides, I saw you put on a show for the Agents and I couldn’t be left out on this big conversation.” The brunette flopped down on the couch to watch the altercation. “Do they know about us?” Angel asked Giles placed a calming arm around the young girl and she relaxed visibly. “I don’t believe that’s important now. Obviously, Angel has something to tell us or he wouldn’t have travelled all the way from L.A. Would you, Angel?” “I just came to warn you Dru is on her way up and she’s not happy with Spike or any of you. She’s been dabbling with the black arts and she’s already pretty powerful. I was just coming to make sure you had restored Amy to her human form. You might need her.” “Yeah, we’re so glad you care. Imagine. Angel showing up with a dark and obscure warning.” Buffy snorted without politeness. The man that did indeed have an angelic face appeared hurt at the girl’s meanness. “Buffy.” Giles reprimanded, “This is serious, Drusilla is not one to be trifled with.” “I can help!” Willow piped up, trying to appear none-too-eager. The others smiled at her. I myself wondered how the shy young girl could help. “Look! I demand to know what is going on!” I shouted and everyone turned to face me. “I already told you, but you refused to believe. I don’t know what I can do to prove who I am. I dusted two vamps right in front of you. There’s not much else to see.” Buffy said defensively, crossing her arms across her chest. I sighed and turned to my overjoyed partner who was buying everything hook, line and sinker. “Scully!” Mulder whined, tugging on my sleeve like a child trying to convince his parents to buy him candy. I pulled loose but tilted my head in consideration. Mulder kept those larger than life eyes of his on mine, begging. Finally, I looked back at the teenager. “Okay. You’ve got one evening to turn my scepticism into full-blown belief.” “Oh, joy upon joy. I’ve got one believer, one sceptic, and one crazy, magical, bitchy vampire on my hands. Oh, no. My life’s not complicated.” Buffy threw her hands in the air resolutely. I could almost feel sympathetic for her, though I wasn’t sure if I could trust in her. After having the sentiment ‘Trust No One’ drilled into my head for nearly six years, I didn’t know what was real and what was a hoax anymore. ******************************************************* End Part One