Giles laid a map of the Estate on the desk and then looked up at the Squad Commanders.

"Well?" He asked. "Suggestions?"

"The best plan is just to leave them to it," replied Captain Jonathan West, leaning over to look at the map.

"What do you mean?" Asked Giles.

"I mean," continued Captain West, glancing up at Giles, "that we get out now. We’ll lace the house with explosives, primed to go off when they’re in here. Simple."

"I’m afraid that’s not an option," replied Giles. "The records here are unique. They contain prophecies and information that could be vital. Their importance cannot be stressed enough."

"Are they important enough to die for?" Asked Captain West. "More importantly, is it worth sending people to their deaths to protect them? The basement IS supposed to be bomb-proof."

"’Supposed’ is a big word, Captain," said Giles. "You know as well as I do that the information in those records could save thousands of lives. However, that’s not the only reason."

"Oh?"

"The Council needs to make a stand," said Giles firmly. "If they want to destroy us then they’re going to have to work for it because we will NOT sneak quietly off into the night."

"Then it can be a last resort option," said Captain Oliver Jones. "If we’re over-run we can retreat and then blow it…and hope the records survive."

That sounds sensible. To fight you must be prepared to risk all.

"What’s the plan for the Estate?" Giles tapped his pen on the map. "I take it we don’t try to defend all 100 acres?"

"Before I answer that," said Captain Jones, "I need ask…do we have a free hand in this? We’re not under any restrictions?"

"Apart from the house," replied Giles with a smile, "and unless you have any nuclear weapons stashed away, then yes…you have a free hand."

"And people? There are only 24 of us…"

"I’ll close down every department and suspend communications. We’ll keep one line purely for information on this army but that will give you…" Giles paused and glanced through the personnel report, "40 more people. There are 16 trainees on site as well, but I need the four in the library. The local coven are also here but again, they’ll be with me. We might be able to give you a little extra something in defence of this place."

The two Captains looked at each other and then Captain West nodded.

"Then here’s what I suggest." He picked up a pen and indicated the map. "What we need to do is ensure they attack precisely where we want them to. Now, from what you’ve said, they are heading directly towards us from the North. Therefore, it’s very unlikely that they will circle around and attack us from behind however…it IS possible. The woods at the back of the house are quite dense so we’ll set up some tripwires."

"The tripwires can be linked to bombs," interrupted Captain Jones. "Fire is our greatest ally…and if they trip these…then the woods will burn."

"I didn’t realise we had bombs of any kind here," said Giles with a frown.

"We don’t," grinned Captain West, "but we can whip up some home-made bombs that will do the job. All you need is petrol, washing up liquid and sugar. It will achieve the desired effect. They’ll either burn or retreat and attack from another direction. We WANT them to attack from the front of the house so we’ll plant the areas around the sides of the house with Claymores and Anti-Personnel Mines."

Captain Jones leaned forward and drew a large "V" on the map with its point at the front of the house.

"That’s the area we want them in," he said. "That’s our killing ground. We’ll use the cars to form a barricade about ninety feet in front of the house. We make sure the cars are filled with flammable material, pack them with explosives and then, when the army starts clambering over it, we blow it up. That will cause a hell of a firewall and should certainly slow them down. We’ll set up a secondary barricade, probably using tables and stuff, about twenty feet in front of the house. Our squads and the most able of the staff will be based there. We can use machine guns and Anti-Tank Rockets to cause a lot of damage to whoever or whatever manages to make it through our ‘firewall’."

"Then maybe myself and the coven should be on the roof," said Giles. "That way we have a clear line of sight."

"That makes sense," replied Captain West. "We’ll have a few vehicles at the back of the house and should we be over-run, we’ll fight a rearguard action to the roof. Rope ladders on the roof will enable to us to get down to the vehicles and escape…blowing the house up when we’re a safe distance."

"And those who are infirm or unable to fight will be in the vehicles waiting?" Asked Giles.

"Yes, sir."

"Right," said Giles. "Do it. We don’t have much time."

James Newton peered around the Library door, frowning as he watched a group of women, together with Charles Grant, carry someone through the Reception Hall and up the stairs.

"Hey," he whispered loudly, turning his head towards Rachel, "there’s a bunch of women and that weasel, Grant, carrying some poor bugger upstairs."

"Ah-huh," grunted Rachel, frowning at a passage in the book in front of her. "What does ‘verisimilitude’ mean?"

James closed the Library door and returned to his seat.

"Um," he said, "I think it means probability or something like that."

"Right," Rachel closed the book. "That’s a waste of time then."

"Told you," grinned James. "I’m more interested in who those women were and who they were carrying."

"You’re just interested in the WOMEN," remarked Rachel, selecting another book from the pile in front of her.

"I’m shocked!" James clutched his heart dramatically and Rachel giggled.

"Okay, enough," she said, "let me get on with this."

"You’re doing the First Evil, right?"

"Yes," replied Rachel, "and everything is hearsay. There don’t seem to be any first, second, third or even fourth-hand accounts."

"That makes sense," smiled James. "It’s called the FIRST Evil…so presumably it’s been around for a hell of a time…maybe from the very beginning."

"So how am I going to find out anything?"

"Well," grinned James, "there’s always the basement. I don’t know about you but I’m itching to see what they’ve got down there."

"Then what are we waiting for?"

Quentin finally resigned himself to the inevitable. There was no way out, no possible escape. The only thing he could do was watch these powerful yet strange images that flooded his mind.

They’re getting closer, he thought, watching the army marching inexorably through the night, I bet they’ll reach Clunewic by dawn. All that knowledge, accumulated over the Centuries, will be lost forever. Such a waste. Such a mindless waste. People are unimportant…they can be replaced…some of those records are unique. Irreplaceable.

No, Quentin mentally shook himself, if I start to think that then I’m no better than Legatus and his cohorts. After all, we’re the good guys. Such a shame it’s never as cut and dried as that. Too many grey areas for my liking.

Quentin pulled his attention back to the army once more. An army this size wouldn’t go unnoticed so Clunewic MUST know it’s coming straight for them. God, I hope they stand and fight it out. If they run we lose more than just this battle…we lose everything. Fight…please fight.

Jayne pulled a chair close to the bed and then sat down, clutching Ethan’s hand in hers.

"You all go on," she said, glancing around at the others. "You need to speak to Mr Giles…I’m staying here with Mr Rayne."

"Fine," sighed Barbara, "but make damn sure you let us know if he does or says anything."

"Of course," replied Jayne calmly, turning her attention back to Ethan.

Barbara shrugged and then ushered everyone else out of the room.

"Mr Grant…" she began, closing the door firmly behind her.

"Call me Charles," he interrupted.

"Very well…Charles. How long until this ‘army’ gets here?"

"A few hours," he replied. "If you’d like to follow me, Mr Giles’ office is this way."

"Which gives us plenty of time to get the hell out of here," said Susan calmly as they followed Charles.

"No!" Snapped Lisa, glaring at Susan. "We HAVE to stay and help."

"Look," said Barbara, "let’s just wait and see what Rupert has to say."

"I agree with Lisa," said Jo, watching with a grin as two uniformed men brushed past them. "We should stay."

"We’ll see what Rupert has in mind and then make a decision."

"I never realised Rupert was so ‘high up’ in the Council," said Jo and Charles smiled slightly.

"He’s not," he replied. "He’s a trained Watcher and he’s also teaching some of the trainees."

"Then why is he in charge?" Asked Barbara.

"Because…" Charles paused and then stopped walking. He turned to face them. "There’s nobody else here that I would rather trust this to…trust our lives to than him. Did you know he’s the current Slayer’s Watcher?"

"No," said Barbara, "we didn’t."

"That’s important. It means he’s capable…used to thinking on his feet…and if anyone can think a way out of this he can."

"Not to mention, of course," said Jo, "the passenger in his head."

"Yes," replied Charles, with a smile, "forgive me for…um…being circumspect but I wasn’t sure if you knew of that."

"Rupert told us," said Barbara. "I guess this is what its here for. To protect the balance and stop the darkness taking hold."

"Let’s hope it succeeds then." Charles stopped in front of a large door at the end of the corridor and knocked firmly.

"Come in," Giles folded the map and glanced up. He smiled and stood up as Charles ushered the coven into the office. "I take it Ethan is settled and Charles has brought you all up to date?"

"He has," replied Barbara. "Quite a situation you have here."

"Indeed…oh, please take a seat, ladies." Giles looked at Charles. "Would you co-ordinate things with Captain West and Captain Jones? They’ll need every member of staff to help them prepare. Shut down all communications…leave one line free and manned for information on the army…oh…and the four trainees in the library…I’ll need them so they’ll be with me."

"We’re staying?"

"Yes, we are," replied Giles, handing the map to Charles. "This will show you what the plan is. We’ll need a few vehicles at the back of the house just in case we need to get out quickly. Make sure those who are infirm are in the cars."

"Does that include Mr Rayne?"

"Yes, it does."

"And the young lady with him?" Asked Charles.

"You’ll be lucky if you can prise her away from him," interrupted Barbara, "but you’re welcome to try."

"She goes with Ethan," smiled Giles.

"So do I," said Giles quietly, "and if he regains consciousness before dawn then I have every intention of prising every possible scrap of information out of him."

"Um…I’ll go and…co-ordinate things," Charles quickly left the office, closing the door firmly behind him.

"It makes him nervous, doesn’t it?" Asked Jo.

"Hmm?" Giles turned to face them.

"You and…" Jo paused and tapped her head, "communicating."

"I’m sure it makes a lot of people nervous…I’ve tried to be very careful but," shrugged Giles, "they’re going to have to deal with it."

"What does he sound like? I mean, what kind of voice does he have?"

Giles cocked his head slightly to one side and then grinned.

"He says he’s modelled his ‘voice’ on Kosh in Babylon 5," replied Giles and then lowered his voice. "Honestly, you and Babylon 5."

"And this situation IS what he’s here for?" Asked Barbara.

"It’s part of it, yes," said Giles, sitting behind the desk once more. "As you heard, the military have come up with a plan but I wanted to talk to you about a more unusual form of defence."

"You want us to stay."

"I do," replied Giles, "but I can’t force you and I can’t order you to. The decision is entirely yours."

"What did you have in mind for us?"

"Initially, I thought about a shield…but that wouldn’t really help. It would only delay the inevitable. Then something HE," Giles tapped his head, "said earlier gave me an idea."

We work well together.

"Go on," said Barbara evenly, "we’re listening."

The old man cupped his ear with his hand and stared imperiously at James and Rachel.

"What did you say, boy? Speak up…don’t mutter!"

"I said," replied James loudly, "that we’re looking for the Records Keeper…Reg!"

"You found him. Now what do you want?"

"We need to research a few things," said James, handing over a list.

Reg rubbed his chin and studied the list.

"Some interesting stuff on here," he said. "Why do you want this?"

"We’re not sure," said Rachel. "Mr Giles just asked us to research them."

"Giles? Aye, I heard tell that young Rupert was back. And who might you be?"

"I’m Rachel and this is James. Mr Giles is our tutor."

"Tutor?" Reg giggled and wheezed. "I reckon that does make a strange sort of sense."

"You’ve known Mr Giles for some time then?" Asked James, exchanging a quick glance with Rachel.

"Aye…known him since he were a lad. Quiet child…mind you, with a father like his I’m not surprised."

"His father’s a Watcher?"

"He was," nodded Reg, "and determined that Rupert was going to follow in his footsteps. He’d brook no argument on that."

"So that’s why he rebelled?" Asked James, hoping that he would finally get confirmation of the rumours.

"I’m sure that was part of the reason," Reg shrugged, "but what young lad DOESN’T rebel against a destiny that’s forced on him?"

"I suppose so," replied James. "Strange to walk out on all this though."

"Not as strange as you’d think. And give Rupert his due…he came back of his own accord. It was his decision…and a brave one but the boy’s never lacked courage." Reg looked down at the list once more. "I’ll hazard a guess this is to do with London?"

"Yes," replied Rachel. "Mr Giles thinks one of those names might be responsible."

"Aye…well," Reg handed the list back to James. "You’d best come…."

"REG!" Came a shout as two uniformed men jogged down the stairs.

"I’m only here!" Snapped Reg. "No need to shout."

"Yeah, yeah," grinned one of the men. "Anyway, listen…this place needs to be sealed off."

Reg raised an eyebrow.

"Oh aye?"

"No training exercise this time," replied the other man, shouldering his gun. "Our orders are to lock everything here away and seal it up completely."

"Expecting something, are we?"

"Something wicked this way comes," said the first man seriously. He glanced at James and Rachel. "What are you two doing down here?"

"Research," said James quickly, holding up the list. "Mr Giles asked us to…"

"Giles?" The two men exchanged glances. "Are you two supposed to be in the Library?"

"Well, yes…sort of."

The first man inclined his head towards the stairs.

"Get back there now."

"But…" James frowned.

"Don’t argue with me, lad. Now move!"

Ethan let his awareness drift slowly forward, stopping short of full consciousness, content instead with his limbo state. Like dozing, he thought, I can still sense things…things like…someone’s holding my hand. It’s a woman…the hand is small, soft and warm. Ethan smiled inwardly, feeling his spirits lift. It’s her. It must be her. He didn’t get it. Legatus didn’t understand the attraction…a chink in his armour, perhaps? A way out for me? Hmm, doubtful. Ethan resisted the urge to open his eyes as he felt her hand squeeze his. The attraction is innocence…goodness…light, I suppose. It’s such a rush to take a pure soul and corrupt it beyond measure. I almost succeeded with Rupert…Ripper was my creation…I called him into being. Ripper had such potential…a shame that Rupert got too squeamish to continue and ran back to the Council with his tail between his legs. Outwardly, he became the perfect Watcher…the perfect vision of an English gentleman in tweed. Inwardly, however, he still feels it…still feels the darkness calling. I wonder how much influence that had on those so-called friends of his? Buffy…ahh…now there was a soul in conflict. She wasn’t much of a challenge. There was already darkness within her – and that wasn’t Rupert’s doing…that was part of what she was. I wonder if all Slayers have that? Willow…oh, I could almost taste the magic in her. Such a shame I didn’t have more time then…but it would have been too easy. I sensed something in her…something dark and violent. Pity I can’t be there when that particular storm breaks. Oh well. Not that it matters. I prefer pure souls…I prefer corrupting innocence. Watching the darkness eat away at them…watch it break and consume them. Is that what Legatus wants? He hasn’t told me the reason for my being here…does he want me to draw Rupert back to Chaos? Hmmm…I don’t know. Why would he do this to me? Why would he want me weak? Enough. I’ll find out when the time comes. Whatever he wants, I do it as long as he lets me die. Or…maybe he’ll heal me…perhaps that will be my reward? No. Don’t start hoping now. This is the First Evil – there is no reward for serving THAT master. The service itself is the reward…or so I’ve been told. I can delude myself…but in the end, I really have no choice…no choice at all. If you have to be sacrificed, Rupert, then so be it. So be it.

**********

Barbara looked around at the others, wondering briefly if the amazed and shocked expressions on their faces mirrored the one on hers. She turned back to Giles and cleared her throat.

"You can’t be serious," she said, surprised that her voice didn’t tremble.

"On the contrary," Giles leaned back and smiled slightly, "Never more so."

"It could work," said Lisa softly, biting her bottom lip.

"You WOULD agree with it," Susan rolled her eyes. "It’s as stupid as you are."

"Susan!" Snapped Barbara, cutting off any reply from Lisa, who glared at Susan.

"Okay, okay…sorry," replied Susan, with only a bare hint of contrition, "but this plan obviously won’t work."

"Why not?" Asked Giles. "It seems perfectly reasonable."

"Reasonable?" Susan looked incredulous. "You seriously expect us to sit up on the roof and beam ‘peace and love’ messages to a gaggle of demons like…like…like a bad Star Trek episode?"

"Not exactly," replied Giles, sitting forward and tapping the desk with the fingers of one hand. "We’re on our own here. There will be no cavalry charging over the hill at the last minute to rescue us. A shield will buy us time…but what for? We will tire, the army will get through…there will be carnage. Now, it was pointed out to me earlier that there is good in everyone…not much maybe but it IS there. If we can call on that, draw it out, we stand a chance of actually stopping some of that army. How many we stop depends on how effective we are."

"What does your friend there think of it?" Asked Barbara.

"He thinks it’s the best plan under the circumstances," replied Giles evenly.

"You’re thinking of staying, aren’t you?" Susan stared at Barbara, who shrugged.

"Perhaps."

"I see," replied Susan, glancing around at the others. "You lot are willing to risk your lives because a ‘voice’ in HIS head tells you to?"

"No," Barbara looked at Susan. "We’ll risk our lives because it’s the right thing to do. We’ll do it because these people need our help and because we’re supposed to fight against darkness. That’s part of our…raison d’être. If we don’t help, if we walk away, then we betray not only ourselves but also everything we stand for. If you don’t agree, then feel free to leave now."

"I’m not leaving," said Susan firmly. "Just because I think the plan sucks doesn’t mean I won’t do my bit. Besides…you lot need someone sane to keep your feet on the ground…to stop you all flying off on another fancy."

"If you have a better idea," remarked Giles, "then I would be more than happy to hear it."

"I don’t," smiled Susan. "However, I discovered long ago that this bunch need someone to play Devil’s Advocate."

"Then it’s settled?" Giles looked around at the group. "You’ll stay and help?"

"Yes, Rupert," replied Barbara. "We’re staying."

James opened the library door, then glanced behind and frowned.

"Weirder and weirder," he said as Rachel brushed past him into the library.

"It is a bit fraught…" Rachel broke off, staring around in surprise. Alan and Scott were no longer studying. They were standing by the far window, muttering to one another and gazing intently at the activity outside. James closed the library door and stood beside Rachel.

"What’s going on, you two?" He asked loudly. Alan turned around, a concerned expression on his face.

"You know what you said earlier about time running out?"

"Yes," nodded James.

"Well I think you’re right. I think it HAS run out." Alan pointed outside. "They’re really going for it."

James glanced at Rachel and they joined Alan and Scott at the window.

"Wow," breathed Rachel, her eyes widening.

Every external light had been switched on, pushing the darkness back except for the occasional eerie shadow. A procession of cars was being driven from the car park and Rachel frowned as she noticed their minibus being carefully manoeuvred into position near the far end of the front lawn. A steady stream of people were carrying tables and chairs from the House whilst being shouted at by a tall, black-clad figure in the centre of the lawn who appeared to be directing operations.

"Look," pointed Alan, "they seem to making some sort of barricade with cars…I wonder what the tables and chairs are for?"

"More barricades?" Shrugged Scott.

"The military types are grabbing everyone who can walk out there," James indicated the hallway. "We were lucky not to be hauled into service ourselves."

"Not lucky," remarked Rachel softly. "Whenever we were stopped, we mentioned Mr Giles and they left us alone."

"Sounds like he’s relying on us to come up with the information he needs," said James. "Maybe we should keep looking."

"In that case," Rachel glanced at James, "why would he order the basement sealed off? He specifically told us that those records could be useful."

"We can’t just stand here and watch…we have to do something."

"And as Mr Giles said to research…we research?" Asked Rachel with a grin. "I think you’re beginning to like him."

"Yeah," replied James, smiling slightly. "He’s not as bad as I thought he would be."

"Bad or not," said Alan, momentarily tearing his gaze away from the window, "we’re right in the firing line. Makes you wonder, doesn’t it?"

"Wonder what?" Asked Scott, glancing at Alan.

"Wonder what’s in store for us. If whoever they are can do that to Headquarters…what will they do to us?" Alan indicated the activity outside. "And is that all a complete waste of time?"

Daniel took a deep breath and slowly opened his eyes. He blinked a few times, smiling as he was finally able to focus on the ceiling above him.

"You look better. More in control." Legatus stared down at Daniel impassively.

"Yes…my system has stabilised. I have found the balance I need."

"Balance?"

"Between the energy I am expending and the energy I am…ingesting."

"Excellent," Legatus rubbed his hands together. "I take it therefore you will not be using our resources quite as quickly."

"No…I will not." Daniel swallowed nervously.

"You have more questions?" Legatus looked closely at Daniel. "You have all the information you need."

"Except one thing," replied Daniel, struggling to keep his voice even.

"And what might that be?" Asked Legatus, looking amused.

"What happens to me when this is over?"

"Oh yes," smiled Legatus, reaching out and gently stroking Daniel’s hair. "That depends."

"On what?" Daniel narrowed his eyes.

"On many things, Daniel. Enough questions. Concentrate on your job."

Legatus turned away, but not before Daniel caught a glimpse of something behind his eyes…something familiar. He’s going to kill me, he thought, the sudden realisation hitting him like a blow from a hammer. I know him now. HE is Death. Whatever happens I will die. I hope…I hope I have not lived in vain. I hope my death has meaning.

Captain Jones leaned against one of the granite pillars in front of the Manor House and lit a cigarette. He inhaled deeply, feeling the tension of the last few hours slowly ebb out of him. Familiar footsteps approached and he straightened up slightly.

"Before you ask," he said, without turning around, "all the mines are laid."

"Then we’re almost ready," replied Captain West. "Barricades done…escape route clear…vehicles at the back of the house."

Turning slightly, Captain Jones held out the packet of cigarettes.

"Want one?"

"No thanks," Captain West shook his head, "those things will kill you."

Captain Jones smiled wryly. "Tell me that tomorrow night and I may just believe you."

"We’d better break out the weapons and get everyone in position. Most of this lot will only need a brief refresher on how to use them."

"A brief refresher?" Captain Jones shook his head. "You’d better look closer at them. I get the feeling some of them are so old they’re probably more at home with a Winchester."

"They’ll be fine."

"Who are you trying to convince? You or me?"

"We’ve prepared as best we can. The rest is in the lap of the Gods."

"Or whatever Mr Giles has planned on the roof."

"Yes…I wonder what Travers would have done?"

"Hmm?" Captain Jones turned around, catching the eyes of the other man and frowning slightly. "About this?"

"Yes," replied Captain West. "A demon army on the rampage, limited personnel…I really wonder what his answer would have been."

"Something complicated, underhand and devious, no doubt," snorted Captain Jones, dropping his cigarette and grinding it beneath his heel. "He never takes the simple option."

"Devious isn’t always bad…sometimes it can be a distinct advantage," replied Captain West, glancing at his watch. "Come on…time to report to our temporary Colonel-in-Chief."

"Yeah…maybe we can get some clues as to what he’s up to on the roof."

Giles moved back towards the open hatch on the roof and put his hands in his pockets. He tried to ignore the ever-lightening sky and watched as the ladies from the coven knelt down, held hands and closed their eyes.

"No," muttered Giles with a sigh, "I would upset the balance."

"Because now they are preparing themselves, shedding negative energy and calling for protection. Their magic is gentle, defensive, born of light and love."

"There is darkness in me…in what magic I possess. You know that…it was one of the reasons you chose me."

"If I joined their circle it would throw a grey shadow over them. It would affect their rituals. It would no longer be light calling to light for protection."

"In a way…yes."

"Unfortunately, no."

"Somewhat flexible?" Giles smiled slightly. "Interesting phrase."

"Look at it this way," replied Giles, turning and making his way down the ladder into the attic. "When someone is shot, do you put the gun on trial or the man who pulled the trigger?"

"I won’t know for certain until I speak with him." Giles opened the attic door and trotted down the stairs into the upper corridor.

"I’m a patient man. I’ll wait as long as it takes." Giles frowned suddenly and stopped walking. "Wait a minute, you KNOW what I’m thinking and feeling, so why do you ask questions?"

"Great," muttered Giles, heading down to the lower floors, "I spent all that time in the States and managed to avoid those awful therapy sessions…and now I’m lumbered with a fulltime therapist in my head."

At least I have not told you to…let your feelings hang out, is, I believe, the correct terminology, came the amused voice in Giles’ mind.

"Not for want of trying, I’m sure," replied Giles. "You must be aware…"

"Mr Giles?" Captain West stood on the bottom step, stared up at Giles and frowned. "Are you alright, sir?"

"Sorry? Oh…um…yes…perfectly fine, thank you." Giles trotted down the remainder of the stairs. "I was just…thinking aloud."

Captain Jones raised an eyebrow and exchanged a quick, concerned glance with Captain West.

"Everything’s ready, sir," said Captain Jones. "We just need to issue weapons."

"What’s the latest update on the army?"

"We have an hour, tops, before they hit us."

"Can you spare someone to take four rifles and ammunition to the roof?"

"Of course…no problem."

"Thank you," replied Giles, holding out his hand. "Good luck, gentlemen."

"What exactly ARE you and the coven going to do up there?" Asked Captain Jones, shaking Giles’ hand.

"We’re going to try and stop the army. If not all then at least a part of it. How we intend to do that will take far too long to explain." Giles smiled suddenly. "But I promise you, when this is all over, I’ll explain everything."

Feelings of dread began to stir in Quentin as he recognised the area through which the demon army was marching. They’re close now…so close. It’s lighter there…must be almost dawn. I wonder what they’ll find at Clunewic? Will it be deserted? God, part of me hopes our people have evacuated…that they’re safe. I need to suppress that. Safety of individuals is not important. The survival of the Council itself counts above all else. They must fight. They must be ready to die for their beliefs…die for us. Wait a minute…why have they taken this long? Why has this army been walking for all this time? Why give us time to prepare? Why not attack at once when we were in disarray? Legatus said he was preparing the way so the destruction of the Council makes sense…but the waiting doesn’t. What is REALLY going on here? Why do I get the feeling we’re all being toyed with? Come on, come on…examine the facts. This all started with the reports of the reduction in demon activity…no, not just demon…a reduction in vampire activity as well. Where are they? There are no vampires in that army. Was that another blind? A red herring? A dawn attack means no vampires. In that case, where did they go? Is there another target? Have they been sent somewhere else? Wonderful. MORE questions. The waters are muddy enough as it is. Right, I need to think back…try and remember every detail. I need to discover what this is all about.

**********

Ethan kept his body limp and his eyes firmly closed as he was unceremoniously bundled into what he assumed was the rear of a car. They can’t be sending me away, can they? No…surely not…Rupert wouldn’t do that…would he?

"Please be careful with him," the familiar, soft voice almost caused Ethan to smile, "he’s not well."

"There…it’s okay. He’s in now." The deep male voice sounded slightly exasperated. "No, love. You need to get in the front not the back."

"I need to stay close to him."

"You ARE close. Look, you’re no good in the back. If something happens to the rest of us you might need to make a quick getaway…you NEED to be in the drivers seat."

There was a sigh and a mutter, then Ethan heard the front door of the car open and then slam shut.

Ethan frowned, struggling with the conflicting emotions he was feeling. He’s protecting me? Rupert wants me safe?

"He’s a fool," continued Legatus, "but think, Mr Rayne, hasn’t he always been one? He abandoned you…gave you over to be tortured without a second thought. He doesn’t deserve a second thought of yours. You’ll do what he did to you. You will hand him over when the time comes. Give him a taste of betrayal, Mr Rayne, and I might consider a more suitable reward for you than death."

Ethan opened his eyes and stared at Legatus, who was sitting calmly alongside him.

"I…I can live?"

Ethan frowned and Legatus smiled suddenly.

"You know my power, Mr Rayne. After all I’ve done to you, do I REALLY need to demonstrate again?"

"No…no…."

"I thought not." Legatus grinned and glanced at Jayne. "Enjoy yourself."

Ethan slumped down with relief as Legatus vanished. He gives me the creeps … but … I can live? I can have power again. Weigh that against handing over Rupert? No choice…no choice at all. Ethan smiled and closed his eyes. Things are looking up.

**********

Rachel glanced at James and grinned. He was lounging back in his chair, chewing his pen thoughtfully as he gazed outside.

"It was your idea to keep researching," she said, "and now look at you."

James took the pen from his mouth and tossed it on the table.

"It’s gone very quiet out there," James frowned. "They’re all just waiting."

"Waiting for what, I wonder?"

"More to the point," said Alan, "what’s going to happen to us?"

"Oh, I’m sure…" Rachel broke off as the door opened. She straightened up as Rupert Giles entered, closing the door behind him. She watched as he stood silently at the door, gazing at each of them in turn before striding across and pulling out a chair.

"What’s going on out there?" Asked James as Giles sat down.

"As I said earlier," replied Giles, sitting back, "Clunewic is the next target. To put it in a nutshell, there’s an army that appears to consist of a good few hundred demons on it’s way here right now."

"At least we’re not going to go ‘poof’," said Scott with a shrug, rather pleased that his voice remained even. "Although dismemberment might be high up on the possible cause of death list."

"We stand a fair chance of repelling the attack," said Giles softly, "and we do have an escape plan in case things do not work out entirely as we wish."

"Those barricades now make sense," said James, glancing at Rachel.

"Um…what about us, sir?" Asked Alan, slightly fearfully. "What are we going to do?"

"As you’ve all had basic weapons training, the four of you will be on the roof with the local coven and me."

"Coven?" James suddenly grinned. " A REAL coven?"

"Yes, Mr Newton," replied Giles with a touch of amusement, "but contrary to what you are no doubt thinking, they will not be dancing around naked."

"I thought no such thing," James blushed furiously, casting a quick glare at the giggling Rachel. "It’s just that I’ve never met anyone who can do magic."

"Yes…well…the Council is rather ambiguous on the subject," admitted Giles, "but never mind. The coven and I will be doing what we can to try and stop this army. It is of vital importance that, once we enter a trance state, our concentration is not disturbed…do you understand?"

The four students nodded and Giles smiled.

"Time to head for the roof," he said, standing up and glancing at his watch. "We’re running out of time."

The odd sound that reverberated through the chamber caused Daniel to frown and look around. The source of the noise soon became apparent and Daniel’s eyes widened as he saw Legatus bent over, laughing. He was taking deep breaths and expelling them in a huge, braying, almost painful laugh. Sounds strange, thought Daniel, like it’s the first time he’s ever done that. Daniel watched with a touch of amusement as Legatus slowly straightened up, the laughter dissolving into the occasional hiccup.

"Everything is proceeding as planned, my Lord?" Asked Daniel hesitantly. Legatus glanced over at Daniel and grinned widely.

"Oh, yes," he said with a giggle, "much better than even I could have anticipated. I had forgotten how much fun humans are. Their minds are so open, so willing to accept what they are told with only the briefest hesitation. Such gullibility. It’s quite delightful. You can starve them, torture them, beat them, bring them to the very brink of death and yet…and yet, hold up an imaginary carrot and they’ll do whatever you ask of them."

"You are referring to the ‘viper’?"

"Indeed." Legatus shrugged. "He’ll do as commanded all the more willingly now. I can’t wait to see his disappointment when he realises that death is the only reward he will get."

"Interesting," Daniel raised an eyebrow. "Set a human to kill a human. They are…were close?"

"Of course. I would hardly send a complete stranger to kill the Watcher. It’s much more fun this way."

"The ties that bind humans can be strong."

"Yes Daniel. I am VERY well aware of that. However, there is much betrayal and anger between these two. I am certain that when the time comes, Mr Rayne will make the correct decision. He will be condemning himself to an eternity of pain should he not." Legatus walked across the chamber and stared down at Daniel. "No more speculation. It is almost dawn and you have a job to do."

Captain West walked back a few feet from the barricade and then looked left and right, studying those peering over tables and chairs. Some were holding muted conversations with those next to them whilst others stared rigidly ahead, silent and unmoving. One common denominator, thought Captain West, is exhaustion. Each and every one of them looks shattered … still, not a lot I can do about that. He caught the eyes of Charles Grant, who was sitting cross-legged on the ground, his rifle next to him, whilst he wiped his hands on his handkerchief. Charles gazed steadily back at him, the message implicit in his eyes. Captain West sighed. Yeah, yeah, he thought, civilians are not used to this and they need to STOP thinking. Taking a deep breath, he suddenly clapped his hands loudly, smiling slightly as everyone turned to look at him.

"I realise you are all nervous and tense, however huddling in one position is not good. We have a little time so everyone stand up." The soldiers interspersed amongst the civilians stood up instantly, whilst the rest of the defenders glanced worriedly at one another before rising to their feet. Captain West sighed. "I trust my orders will be carried out a bloody sight quicker than that from now on. When the order comes to run, you WILL run. You will not look at the person next to you to see what they’re doing. Don’t think. Just follow orders. Do you understand?"

"Yes, sir!" Snapped the soldiers instantly. The rest of the defenders either nodded or quietly acquiesced.

"Put your rifles down carefully and then we’ll do some gentle jogging on the spot. Don’t exert yourselves unduly, go at your own pace." Captain West watched with approval as everyone complied. "Shake your arms…loosen up. You’ve got to try not to let your muscles stiffen. Move about a bit…don’t stay in one position all the time."

"Blimey, I’d rather face those demons single-handed than do this bloody aerobics workout," called out one of the soldiers, causing giggles to break out along the defensive line.

Captain West grinned and then froze as his radio crackled into life.

"Enemy sighted, sir."

Captain West calmly unhitched his radio from his belt and raised it to his lips.

"Status and location, lieutenant?"

"About 200 yards in front of the first barricade, sir. They’re not moving…they’re just waiting."

"Continue surveillance. Out." Captain West lowered his radio and looked at the defenders who had all stopped jogging and were watching him expectantly. "Take up positions!"

Barbara took a deep breath, stood up and stretched.

"That’s it then," she said calmly. "We’re ready."

"I’m glad to hear it," said Giles, climbing through the roof hatch.

The rest of the Coven stood, watching silently as James, Rachel, Alan and Scott joined Giles, standing behind him and nervously looking around.

"And what about you, Rupert?" Asked Barbara, smiling reassuringly at the four youngsters. "Are you ready?"

"Yes," replied Giles without hesitation. "I’m ready."

"These four will guard against intrusion?"

"They will."

"It is for THEM," muttered Giles, aware of the students puzzled glances. "Formality and ritual are the way the Coven operate."

"Then the time has come for you to take your place in the circle. May the Forces of Light watch over us."

Giles nodded and turned to face the students, indicating the rolled up rope ladders near the edge of the roof.

"They are firmly secured so all you have to do is throw them over the side when our friends downstairs come up through the hatch. I don’t want you to hesitate," said Giles, staring at each one in turn. "You will go down these ladders at once and get into the vehicles below."

"What about you and the Coven?" Asked James, glancing around at the ladies softly chatting with one another in the centre of the roof area.

"If we haven’t succeeded by that time," said Giles with a slight smile, "then we’ll be right behind you."

There are some things, Giles thought deliberately, that it is best NOT to mention.

Giles smiled at the brief touch of amusement in his mind and then walked to the front of the roof. He picked up one of the rifles leaning against the guard-rails and held it out.

"Your weapons," he said succinctly and James stepped forward to take the rifle. "Looks like there’s plenty of ammunition as well. Take your cue from our friends down there … fire when they do."

"Rupert?" Barbara walked over and put a hand on Giles’ shoulder. She pointed across the front lawn. "They’re here."

Giles turned, leaned against the top guard-rail and stared at the motionless army, waiting silently at the far end of the Estate. The sunrise cast an eerie, almost orange glow over the demons and they seemed to shimmer in the morning light. Giles sucked in a breath, surprised at the sheer scale of what now confronted them. His eyes scanned the demons restlessly, trying to focus and pick out individual species, searching for anything that might give them an advantage, but to no avail. They’re too far away, he thought, I can’t really make them out.

"Bloody hell," Alan stared at the army, eyes wide with shock. "There are…hundreds of them. We’re…we’re going to die."

"We stand a better chance than those down there," replied Rachel calmly, peering down at the defenders manning the second barricade.

"Mr Jackson," said Giles, turning his back on the army, "you are here because I felt I could depend on you. I still feel that, however, I am going to give you a choice. You can either stay here and do what you have been trained to do…or you can go and sit in the vehicles below and take no further part in this."

"I’m staying, sir," replied Alan, almost indignantly. "It’s just…"

"A bit overwhelming, isn’t it?" Giles glanced at the other three who were all paying close attention to the conversation. "It’s quite natural to be nervous…it’s also VERY natural to feel afraid."

"YOU feel afraid?" Alan stared incredulously at Giles.

"Of course I do," replied Giles with a smile. "You don’t think my stomach isn’t churning? You don’t think my hands aren’t sweaty? Mr Jackson, you only need to worry when you DON’T feel these things. You’ve undergone the best training the Council can offer and I have faith in you all. Take your positions, be ready…and get out of here the moment the first soldier comes up through that hatch."

"Good luck, sir," said James, moving subtly closer to Rachel.

"You too," replied Giles. "All of you."

Quentin concentrated hard on the image that seemed to swim before him, wishing fervently for a better view. There’s something there…barricades…they’ve put up barricades, he thought with delight. Yes! They’re going to fight it out. Well done, Charles. I knew you wouldn’t let me down. Well…actually, no, I didn’t but never mind. Quentin turned his attention back to the demons who were standing silently on the very edge of the well-manicured lawn. More waiting, he thought. The only logical reason I can come up with is that this is all about terror as opposed to destruction. Legatus said he was preparing the way for the coming of the First. Preparation. That’s the key. Are they testing us? Seeing how far we’ll go? Studying our tactics…our strengths…our weaknesses…ourselves? Oh God. We’re playing right into his hands. We’re giving him exactly what he wants. Does he know about Rupert though? Maybe Rupert and his passenger are the rabbits we can pull out of the hat? But…this still doesn’t bring me any closer to discovering what has happened to those damn vampires…

Daniel lifted his head and stared at Legatus who had his eyes closed and appeared to be swaying to music only he could hear. The occasional clicking of fingers seemed to confirm Daniel’s theory and he sighed, loathe to interrupt.

"What is it, Daniel?" Legatus’ eyes snapped open and he stared unblinking at Daniel, who swallowed nervously.

"Um…the army have arrived…"

"Yes, I know."

"And … well…dawn is over."

"I know." Legatus suddenly grinned. "They’ll attack in a minute or two. I just wondered if the Council would actually take the initiative for once and make the first move. Obviously not though. They’re so entrenched in tradition and habit that original thought is an alien concept to them."

"And Vulcan’s Bane?"

"The Watcher is up to something. He is on the roof with the Coven. It matters not. His influence will quickly be negated."

"And if it all goes wrong?"

"Then it goes wrong," grinned Legatus. "I will have the information I need though…and that’s the important thing."

"All this death…for research?"

"Yes," replied Legatus, striding over to Daniel. "Ironic, isn’t it? An organisation that prides itself on its information gathering skills will be destroyed in the name of research."

"I suppose so."

"Such enthusiasm, Daniel. No matter. It is time for the army to attack. You will show images of as much death and destruction as you can to those in the other realm. Let them see the battle through the eyes of my army. I want them repulsed, terrified, horrified. Do you understand?"

"Yes, my Lord," Daniel nodded tiredly.

"Excellent! Now enjoy the spectacle, Daniel."

Barbara and Jo shuffled over to make room for Giles in the circle and he knelt between them, taking their hands in his. They have such small hands, he thought briefly before taking deep breaths and trying to relax.

"I can’t lose myself," muttered Giles, closing his eyes.

You will not. You have great strength. More than you give yourself credit for. And remember…you are not alone. I am part of you now. I am with you…as is the Coven.

Giles became aware of chanting around him and felt his body start to relax as the familiar rhythms and cadences eased and soothed him. He stayed quiet, not wishing to disrupt their concentration by adding his own voice, preferring instead to centre himself and clear his mind in readiness. Giles tensed as the first touches of magic from the Coven started to surround and envelop him. It’s so bright, he thought, so clear and so…pure. Giles kept a firm, mental grip as he felt his own magic surge forward. Eager as a puppy and deadly as a snake, thought Giles, but it’s different this time. This time I WILL control it.

Different yet similar, came the tender voice in his mind. You have more confidence in your abilities now.

Giles felt a rush of approval and gathering his resolve, he suddenly released all restraints and let his magic go. Oh God, he thought, as he felt it surge through him, I’d forgotten how good this felt. It filled him, seeming to light up the dark places within, banishing the negative thoughts and feelings and replacing them with delight and exultation. Such a rush…such an addiction. Don’t get sucked in like before, thought Giles, exercising control and directing his energies to merge with that of the Coven. He sent his magic around the circle, testing strengths and limits, supporting and enhancing where needed.

I am watching, came the familiar voice. I will let you know when the time is right.