Jo struggled briefly to open her eyes and then, with a sigh, gave up. Too tired, she thought, I just need to sleep for a while. She relaxed, feeling herself slowly drifting towards the arms of Morpheus when a sudden, insistent buzzing drew her gradually back to consciousness. Go away, she thought, I want to sleep. The buzzing metamorphosed into a familiar voice and Jo groaned aloud.

"Jo? Can you hear me?"

"Go ‘way."

"Jo…come on…open your eyes."

With a muttered curse, Jo slowly opened one eye and tried to focus on the face that drifted in and out of her vision.

"Barbara? Is that you?"

"Well, who ELSE would it be? Come on…you need to help me wake the others."

Jo frowned, opened both eyes and stared at Barbara. Bloody hell, she thought, I hope I don’t look as bad as she does. Barbara looks old…grey…and exhausted. It looks like willpower alone is keeping her going.

"Look," continued Barbara, nodding her head towards Ethan and Giles. "We need to get out of here."

Jo raised her head, wincing at the effort and stared at the two figures kneeling on the roof, hands clasped together.

"What are they doing?"

"I don’t know," replied Barbara, "but its bound to be magic. I think they’re linking. I don’t like it…but there’s nothing we can do. We’re all exhausted…so we need to leave. Now. Before it’s too late."

Jo managed to struggle to her knees, exhaustion threatening to claim her once more. She took deep breaths, trying to shake the hazy feeling in her head.

"Come on," said Barbara, grabbing her arm. "You can do it."

"Just…give me a minute…to catch my breath," said Jo, frowning as she looked around and saw the four motionless figures a few feet behind Giles. "What’s going on with them?"

Barbara followed Jo’s gaze and shrugged.

"Some kind of spell, I think," she said. "Whatever it is…we can’t help them."

**********

Captain West felt Charles tense beside him as the demons turned to face them.

"Right, everyone," he said. "Be ready. Don’t worry about finesse…just push the buggers off the stairs. Let the drop take care of them."

"Will that work?" Charles whispered and Captain West shrugged.

"Probably…for a little while anyway. The only way I can see for them to get across that gap is to jump. The limited space means they can only come over in two’s or three’s. That makes it much easier for us and we can simply use their own momentum against them."

"That sounds very…convincing."

"Thank you," grinned the Captain. "I DO try."

A loud roar caused the defenders to tense as two demons jumped with ease across the gap. They didn’t hesitate, immediately grabbing hold of two of the defenders and then falling backwards, plunging down through the hole in the staircase, keeping a firm grip on their human captives.

"Everyone grab hold of the man in front of you!" Captain West yelled above the roars and screams. "Hold tight and DON’T let that happen again!"

"Not as easy as it looks, is it?" Remarked Charles with a sigh.

"It never is. Adapting to the unexpected is part of the job. Pass the word quietly to expect one or two of the more gangly buggers over there to try and leap behind us. Be ready."

**********

Giles could feel the darkness in Ethan; it surrounded and encompassed him with an intensity that surprised Giles. Ethan called upon more and more energy, his muttering an almost soothing rhythm and Giles felt his body tingle, the hairs on the back of his neck standing up as the dark energy hummed and throbbed.

The energy is not his. Vulcan’s Bane sounded both intrigued and appalled.

No, it isn’t. Giles’ tone was mixture of resignation, hope and amusement. He looks healthy…healed…and has access to the kind of power we dreamed about in our youth. I wonder what price he’s had to pay for it?

Maybe WE are the price? He winked and referenced the words you said to him previously…is he with us or against us?

To be completely honest, I’m not entirely sure. He loves mischief…loves games…this could all be a bluff on his part.

You are not strong; the spell with the coven has weakened you. Even if your friend IS on our side, whatever he has planned could kill you.

I know…but it’s a moot point. I don’t have a choice.

However this ends, it has been an honour being with you.

Likewise, my friend.

"I need your focus, Rip," came a soft whisper and Giles opened his eyes to stare at Ethan.

"What?" Replied Giles, frowning.

"Just like old times. Ashes to ashes…darkness to darkness...two little boys had two little toys." Ethan grinned suddenly. "It’s all a question of trust."

"Oh bloody wonderful," muttered Giles, rolling his eyes.

What does he mean?

When we were younger, our castings followed a pattern. Ethan always had the raw power whilst I had the focus and direction. He wants us to do that again…but this time focussing the dark energy to destroy the demons. By the depth of the power I can feel, Ethan would be unable to control it alone.

You are not strong enough.

I have to be.

I can do nothing to help.

You were able create a bridge for me previously…allowing me to travel to another plane. That must have taken SOME energy.

Indeed. But minimal energy. I merely followed the blood link.

Then use that minimal energy of yours to steady my physical self.

Hmmm. Energy is energy. I may be able to use some of the Chaos energy to give you stability…which is rather ironic. A child of light being nurtured by darkness.

I’m hardly a child of light.

You are. You have tasted and dabbled in darkness but your essence remains…

Discussions later. Ethan is ready.

Giles barely had time to take a deep breath before the dark energy hit him with the power of a speeding train. This time, however, Giles knew what he was doing. He didn’t even attempt to contain the energy, knowing that, should he endeavour to do so, its sheer force and power would tear him apart. Instead, he merely focussed the power and sent it out, a rippling wave of darkness heading down through the house. Giles found himself quickly falling into old, familiar routines as the link with Ethan grew ever stronger. Long established patterns and cadences came to the fore. To Giles it was both comforting and somewhat concerning.

I am strong where he is weak and vice versa, thought Giles. It’s a bit worrying when linking with Ethan seems "safe".

You know each other well and you are working to the same goal…that always helps.

How am I, physically?

Stable. The same cannot, however, be said of your friend, Mr Rayne. He is holding back the main force of energy and it is a great drain on his physical self.

He’s holding back to protect me. I can feel it. The energy coming to me is what we need to destroy the army…no more.

Should you both survive this, it will be extremely interesting to hear his version of events. It would be the work of a few seconds for him to overload your system.

Indeed. Can I take more energy? Relieve Ethan’s burden a bit?

No. Any more and I will not be able to maintain your physical self. It would overload you completely. As it is, we are walking a fine line.

I am unable to increase the speed of the wave…

It matters not. Maintain the focus and all will be well…hopefully.

Thank you. I could have done without the final word.

Giles relaxed slightly as amusement tinged his mind and he found it a little easier to control the dark energy that flowed through him. He felt safe and protected yet, at the same time, more than a touch apprehensive and on his guard. No, he thought as his mind threatened to wander, concentrate on the job at hand. The whys and wherefores can wait.

**********

Charles Grant found himself slowly being forced backwards, towards the main body of the defenders now somewhat depleted group. As Captain West had predicted, three of the demons had gracefully leapt over the top of them and had attacked from behind. The demons were stronger than Charles had anticipated and he was desperately trying to defend himself from the vicious claws of the tall demon in front of him. Sweating profusely, he slashed wildly with his knife and sent a heartfelt prayer for assistance to any deity that might be listening. Charles’ desperate prayer was quickly answered as Captain West charged past him and cannoned into the demon, driving it backwards. The demon’s arms flailed wildly as it tried to keep its balance but the momentum from the Captain’s charge was too much and it fell backwards onto the stairs. Instantly, the Captain sprang up and, in one movement, slashed his knife across the demon’s throat. The Captain swung around, ascertaining that the other two demons had been summarily dispatched and then turned to Charles and grinned.

"You okay, Charles?"

"Yes…yes…thanks," replied Charles a little shakily, wiping sweat from his forehead with the back of his hand, "but we can’t do this much longer."

"I agree," said Captain West, "and now seems an ideal time to pull back."

"It does?"

"Look up."

Charles glanced up and gasped. For a few seconds he thought there was some kind of instability above them because it seemed as though the walls themselves were undulating and swaying. He soon realised that the air above them was shimmering and it was like peering through frosted glass.

"Good lord…what is it?"

"I’m hoping its Mr Giles up to his tricks again. We’ll do exactly as we did earlier and run straight through it." Captain West looked at Charles. "Let’s hope your lot will obey orders."

"I’m sure they will."

"Right," Captain West took a deep breath and then yelled: "Disengage and retreat!

**********

Daniel frowned and stared at the tense back of Legatus. He swallowed nervously and cleared his throat.

"It seems human friendship runs deeper than you thought," he said, unable to keep a touch of satisfaction out of his voice.

Legatus turned to face Daniel and smiled.

"It proves that we cannot trust humans," he said quietly.

"What will happen to Mr Rayne?"

"Exactly what I told him would happen," shrugged Legatus. "The power he has access to could very well overload him as well…it’s highly likely this betrayal of his will kill him anyway."

"And then?"

"We own his soul. He will suffer."

"Are you not going to withdraw the army before that…spell…reaches them? Won’t it destroy them?"

"Indeed it will. Whatever the outcome, Daniel, death was the only thing they could look forward to. This saves me the trouble of wasting more energy in killing them."

"And me? When will you kill me?"

"Not yet, Daniel," replied Legatus, turning away. "Killing you will be my last act before I leave this place."

**********

There was a steady flow of energy from Ethan and Giles was finding it progressively more easy to focus. The familiarity helped, together with the ease in which they had fallen into their old, long remembered routines and patterns. The hand clasped in his own was a link to the physical and, for Giles, it grounded him, allowing him a sense of perspective.

Except, thought Giles, he seems to be loosening his grip.

Your friend is weakening. I fear he cannot continue much longer.

I take it I am weakening as well?

Yes…but not at the rate your friend is.

Then we need to end this somehow.

I feel that there are three options left open to us. First, pull back, stop the spell before you are both too weak. Second, continue with the spell as it is…and hope you both have enough strength to finish this…

Or third?

Third…use as much of the energy your friend is holding back as you can take and send out one massive blast. Admittedly, there is a strong possibility that neither of you will survive…the power you would have to focus would be tremendous.

But it would appear to be the best option we have to destroy the army.

Indeed. You merely have to convince your friend of the validity of your proposal.

How do I do that? Neither of us is in a fit state for a conversation, let alone a debate.

I know not. However you must try.

Giles opened his eyes and squeezed Ethan’s hand. It was taking every bit of willpower and determination Giles possessed to force his body to respond whilst so much of his own energy was taken up in focussing the dark power. Giles slowly turned his head, staring into Ethan’s eyes and willing him to understand the message he was trying to convey.

For Ethan it was torture…of a kind far worse than anything physical he had previously experienced. All the power he had ever dreamed of was right there, within his reach and all he had to do was touch it. Ethan was trembling with need and desire, the power so close he could taste it, feel it calling to him and yet, he resisted. Beware of Greeks…no…maybe that should be beware of emissaries bearing gifts. He lied from the beginning and I don’t doubt that all his promises and threats are like dust in the wind. Besides…whatever happens between Rip and me is private, it’s strictly between us. We will compete on our own terms, not those dictated by a third party. Strong words but…Christ I’m scared. Eternity seems such a long time for a soul to be in torment, but if anyone can find a way out then it’s Ripper. Ethan felt Giles’ hand tighten and he opened his eyes, trying to focus on the face that seemed to drift in front of him. Green. I can see green…concentrate on the green. What are you trying to tell me? What do you want me to do? You obviously don’t want me to stop…your eyes are pleading but not for an end to the energy. Something else then. If you don’t want less then you want more? Very well…you take the lead and I’ll follow…which will make a change. Whatever tune you’re dancing to, Rip, I hope you’ve got your steps right.

Giles continued to stare at Ethan until he saw an almost imperceptible nod from the other man. With a brief sigh, Giles closed his eyes once more, preparing himself for the coming onslaught of dark energy and hoping fervently that Ethan understood the message correctly. Giles could feel the soft reassuring touches of Vulcan’s Bane and realised that there was no longer any need for words between them. Everything is known, everything is… Giles didn’t finish the thought because, at that moment, there was a surge in the flow of energy and suddenly his whole being was flooded with the dark power. Giles could no longer think, he could only feel, as the energy seemed to be everywhere. It was in his blood, flowing through his veins, a dark powerful hatred that seemed to boil and bubble as every nerve, every bone, every sinew screamed in agony. It was an almost overpowering, intense blackness and its very nature meant it was constantly changing, always in flux. There was no still point, no focus. The only stillness and peace was in Order and Light. Chaos didn’t mean destruction or strife it meant unpredictability, constant movement. With Chaos everything and nothing could and would happen. Knowing that it was impossible to impose any control over the dark, Chaos energy, Giles did the only thing left open to him: he let go. The only awareness he had was of the energy bursting from him in one almighty surge before a different kind of blackness claimed him and his body slumped down on the roof.

**********

Charles Grant was literally running for his life, taking the stairs two at a time, his eyes fixed on the shimmering air above them. Don’t look behind…don’t look behind, thought Charles as he felt tingles along his spine, the demons are NOT getting closer…they’re not about to leap on me. Just keep running.

"Alright, Charles?" Captain West was running alongside Charles as the two of them brought up the rear of the group. "You’re looking a little flushed."

"Bloody unfit," gasped Charles. "Physical exertion is NOT my favourite activity."

"Never mind, we’re almost…"

Whatever Captain West was going to say was lost as darkness exploded all around them. This was no ordinary darkness however. It was invasive, a full scale mental and physical assault. To Charles, it was as though he was suddenly blind, deaf and mute. There was a rotten, rancid smell that was so powerful that Charles felt he could taste it and his stomach rebelled violently. Things seemed to crawl under his skin, his blood felt sluggish and dark, his nerves reacting sharply and painfully with every movement. He was unaware that he had dropped to his knees, vomiting and clinging desperately to the banister. Pain suddenly flared in his head and he was assaulted with images of horrors that couldn’t possibly exist, creatures that seemed to crawl into view from the very depths of hell. The darkness was there, in his mind, like maggots feasting on his brain. Charles wanted to hide, wanted to run away from the horrors he was seeing but he couldn’t move, he was transfixed by darkness. He tried to yell, shout for it to stop, but no sound emerged. There was nothing but silence. Inside his head though…Charles was screaming.

**********

The demon army had no fear. As the humans ran, the demons roared in exultation, leapt over the gap and raced after them. They were aware of the shimmering air above them and were determined that, this time, they would not hesitate. Humans running from demons was RIGHT, it was, to their minds, how the world should be. They were ready. They were prepared. They were getting closer to the fleeing humans, close enough to hear their gasping breaths. They would hunt, kill and feast on flesh.

Suddenly the world seemed to turn itself inside out.

The demons were used to darkness, they lived in the shadows, were at home in the depths of the night, but this…this was different. This ravaged them, touched something raw inside. This was forbidden, overpowering, black light burning into them. They felt their flesh blistering, their blood boiling and their bones crumbling until, seconds after the darkness touched them, the demons began to collapse, disintegrating into dust on the stairs.

**********

Legatus took a step backwards and shook his head slightly.

"I think Mr Giles and Mr Rayne have gone too far this time," he said, turning to Daniel. "What images are you sending?"

"Um…when Mr Giles collapsed…I started sending images from inside the house." Daniel frowned. "Does it matter anymore?"

"No…no, it really doesn’t matter. Let the Council see what they will, it will not assist them."

"What have they done? What IS that blackness?"

"That, Daniel, is the raw stuff of Chaos. I gave Mr Rayne limited access to it, but I admit I did not expect this. It is ingenious…almost inspired. I expect Vulcan’s Bane is the instigator."

"I don’t understand. If, as you say, that’s the raw stuff of Chaos, why did your army…um…die like that?"

"Only the Chaos Lords can withstand the purity of raw Chaos. The rest of us…the lesser beings…are used to a more diluted form."

"Then why have the humans who encountered it not died?"

"Because they are creatures of Light. They have a natural defence against darkness. Encompass them in pure light and they would be destroyed. You see, it is not a question of opposites. Light does not destroy Darkness. Darkness does not destroy Light. It is the balance between them that is important."

"I see…or at least I think I do," sighed Daniel. "So what happens now?"

"Now?" Legatus smiled at Daniel. "Now…it’s over. My work is done…my task complete. Well…almost complete."

**********

James dropped to his knees, aware that he was shaking violently but rather pleased to finally be able to move.

"What…the fuck…was that?" He gasped, gritting his teeth and hoping the nausea would go away.

Rachel struggled to sit up from her prone position on the roof, wiping her eyes and wishing she hadn’t moved. Everything seemed to hurt from the tips of her hair right down to her toenails.

"I don’t know," she whispered, holding her head in her hands, "but I hope it’s over."

James slowly lifted his head and looked around. Some of the ladies from the coven had started to move and groan, sitting up and trying to rouse the others. James sighed, his gaze falling on two unmoving figures lying nearby.

"Mr Giles…" James crawled over to Giles, grabbing his shoulder and rolling him onto his back.

"Is he…?" Rachel stared as James reached out a shaking hand, gently placing his fingers on Giles neck.

"No," James smiled with relief, "I think he’s just unconscious."

"What about the other one?"

James turned and stared at Rachel.

"Does it matter about him?" He asked evenly.

Rachel glared at James and started crawling towards Ethan.

"It matters, James. He’s a person, isn’t he?"

"That’s a matter of opinion," muttered James.

"Don’t start, James," said Rachel, as she checked Ethan. "You could show SOME compassion."

"Why? Look what he did to us! And he could have killed Mr Giles!"

"James," said Rachel quietly, "he’s not breathing."

James shrugged. "It’s out of our hands then."

"James Newton!" Yelled Rachel, glaring at him. "Stop being such a bloody asshole and get over here!"

With a further burst of muttering and a glare so fierce it would melt butter, James shuffled over to kneel beside Rachel.

"What do you want me to do?"

"You do the chest compressions," said Rachel, tilting Ethan’s head back, "and I’ll do the breathing. Come on…snap to it."

**********

Charles slowly became aware of a voice calling his name and he opened his eyes, gradually releasing the firm grip he had on the banister.

"Charles? Are you alright?" Captain West’s voice was weak and unsteady as he struggled into a sitting position on the stairs.

"Um…I’m not sure," replied Charles, trying not to gag at the taste in his mouth and the smell of the vomit puddling at his knees. He fumbled in his pockets, pulling out a handkerchief and wiping his mouth. Charles flushed with embarrassment. Bloody hell, I must have made a right fool of myself but…Christ…I’d give anything not to go through that again.

"That was…intense," said Captain West, taking deep breaths and trying to stop the spots dancing in front of his eyes.

"Yes," replied Charles, glancing at the Captain and immediately feeling slightly better. Not just me then, he thought, looks like we ALL suffered.

"It worked though," said the Captain, struggling to his feet and pointing down the stairs. "Take a look."

Charles glanced behind him and gasped.

"What the…?"

"I’m guessing," shrugged the Captain, "that those piles of dust are all that remains of the demon army."

"But…how did he do that?"

"I don’t know, Charles. And if we suffered THAT…how did it affect Mr Giles?"

Charles got to his feet, closing his eyes briefly against the nausea.

"We need to check," he said, swallowing and taking a grateful breath.

"The rest of you," Captain West looked around, "check the house when you’re able to."

***********

We won, thought Quentin with delight, we actually won. An army destroyed and the house and records intact. Relatively intact anyway. What happens now? Will Legatus send us back? Will we remain here? Has he failed…and why do I get the impression there’s still something I’m not seeing? It never ends…we won and I STILL have more questions than answers.

"I trust your stay here has been comfortable," Legatus’ voice echoed in Quentin’s mind, "and that the entertainment was to your liking?"

Oh it was, thought Quentin, more entertaining than YOU might have expected.

"Gloating, Mr Travers? Why on earth would you be so pleased?"

Because we won. The Council still stands tall…with or without us.

"The Council SURVIVED. For the time being anyway."

What do you mean?

"I discovered what I needed to know, Mr Travers. Everything else is immaterial. You will return to your own realm quite simply because neither you or your precious Council is a threat to us."

Then what is? You brought in Ethan Rayne…to kill Rupert Giles? To get rid of Vulcan’s Bane before the First manifests?

"You have a very active imagination, Mr Travers," chuckled Legatus. "Vulcan’s Bane is certainly no threat…neither is its current host."

Current? He’s still alive then? Rupert is alive?

"Indeed. And please be sure to pass on a message to Vulcan’s Bane for me."

What message?

"Just say that we are even now. It will understand."

**********

Rachel sat back on her haunches and ran a hand through her hair.

"We did it," she said, glancing at James. "He’s alive anyway."

"He’s luckier than some," replied James distantly.

Rachel followed James’ gaze, her eyes widening in understanding as she saw one of the ladies from the coven kneel beside one of her colleagues. Taking off her jacket, she placed it gently over the face of the other and bowed her head.

"Three dead so far," came a soft voice behind her and Rachel turned to see Alan and Scott kneeling solemnly beside Giles.

"Three too many," she replied and James shrugged.

"It could have been so much worse."

"I suppose so," said Rachel, "but what about those who were downstairs? They can’t…they can’t all be dead, can they?"

"Indeed not, young lady," said Captain West, climbing up through the hatch. "A number of us made it."

"Thanks to Mr Giles," added Charles as the Captain helped him onto the roof. "I just hope I never have to experience that again."

"Is he alright?" Asked Captain West, nodding towards Giles.

"We think so," replied Rachel. "He just seems to be unconscious."

Charles sighed and walked over to the edge of the roof, leaning on the guard rail and staring out across the lawn. The first barricade was smouldering now, casting thick black smoke skywards. Charles could no longer make out individual vehicles, it now just seemed to be a mass of twisted and broken metal. It looks like a battlefield, he thought, wincing at the gouges and craters in the once beautiful lawn.

"It won’t take long to put right, Charles," said Captain West softly, putting a hand on his shoulder. "First things first though. We need to get everyone downstairs and sort out some medical attention."

**********

Legatus looked down at Daniel and smiled slightly.

"You can stop the images now."

"I already have," replied Daniel. "I suppose the only thing left is for you to kill me…and these others."

"Indeed."

"Will you answer a question first?" Daniel was pleased that his voice remained even. "Call it a reward for a job well done."

Legatus grinned and leaned against the stone slab.

"Ask your question, my friend."

"Did you really find out everything you needed to know?"

"Oh yes. Humans are unreliable. Vampires are stupid. The Demons here have grown soft and fat…and the Council IS a threat. But easily nullified."

"How?"

Legatus sighed and picked at a fingernail.

"Oh, I have no doubt that they will meet a somewhat explosive end. It lacks class and taste, of course, but is remarkably effective. Personally, I would prefer something more cerebral and eloquent but the decision is not mine."

"What about…"

"Enough questions, Daniel," said Legatus softly, standing up straight and running a finger down Daniel’s face. Legatus could feel the fear emanating from Daniel in waves and he grinned with delight. "Savour the moment, Daniel."

Legatus moved his hand, gently covering Daniel’s mouth and nose. He pressed down hard, staring into Daniel’s eyes and ignoring the clawing hands and jerking body.

"You see?" Whispered Legatus, "I told you it was beautiful. Feel it, Daniel, feel your body shutting down. Just accept it…don’t try to fight. It’s like falling…you just drift away."

Legatus relaxed his grip slightly as Daniel stopped struggling. He watched intently and, when Daniel’s eyes flickered and the light behind them gradually died, he took a deep breath and stepped back.

"Oh, that felt good. Such a beautiful experience." Legatus grinned and stared around the chamber at the unmoving bodies on the stone slabs. "As for the rest of you, you’ll die here…slowly…and painfully."

Whistling, Legatus shoved his hands into his pockets and strode to the tunnel entrance. He stepped through and then glanced back into the chamber.

"Goodbye, my friends." With a wave of his hand, Legatus sealed the chamber. "Ah well. Onward and upward."

**********

Henry sighed and peered once more at the computer screen.

"Why is it taking so long?" He asked and Commander Richards shrugged.

"Because we need to check EVERY floor. At the moment, this is classed as a possible terrorist attack…this is standard procedure."

"But that damn machine is going so slowly!" Henry tried to keep himself calm but the frustration threatened to overwhelm him. Having finally reached London, it had taken him over an hour to convince the Commander of his credentials. By being obstinate and bloody-minded, he had eventually been permitted to watch as the robotic bomb detector scoured the building.

"Level eight clear, sir," said the operator, sitting in front of the screen. "Proceeding to level nine."

"How many more to go?"

"Another six, sir."

"Dear God." Henry glanced at his watch. "May I use your phone?"

"Sorry. Official calls only." Commander Richards kept his eyes on the screen.

"Fine," muttered Henry. "Where’s the nearest phone I CAN use?"

"There’s a call box at the end of the street."

Henry sighed again and turned to leave, only to stop at the operator’s sudden curse.

"Fuck! Um…sorry, sir…they’re…um…well, they’re back."

Henry turned and stared incredulously at the screen. The previously deserted building was now a hive of activity. No longer were the desks and chairs empty. To all intent and purposes, the images on the screen gave the impression of a normal day at work. Commander Richards turned to Henry.

"I don’t suppose YOU can explain this?"

"Uhh…no…I’m afraid not."

"I see. In that case, maybe I should charge them AND you with wasting police time!"

**********

Giles groaned and slowly opened his eyes, wincing at the bright light.

"Welcome back to the land of the living, Mr Giles," said Charles with a smile, peering closely at Giles. "You’re looking a bit better."

"How…?" Giles croaked and winced again.

"Just a second," said Charles, patting Giles’ shoulder and then going into the bathroom.

Welcome back. The voice in his mind sounded unusually subdued and Giles frowned.

Is something wrong? Before Vulcan’s Bane could reply, Charles bustled back in from the bathroom with a glass of water.

"Here we go," he said cheerfully, sitting on the edge of the bed. "Can you sit up?"

Giles shuffled and slowly sat up, ignoring his protesting muscles and surprised that he felt as weak as a kitten. Charles held the glass to his mouth and Giles gulped at the water gratefully.

"That’s enough for now, I think," said Charles. "How are you feeling?"

"Battered," replied Giles, leaning back against the headboard. "How long have I been…asleep?"

"Three days," said Charles, "and I’m supposed to alert Mr Travers when you wake up."

"Quentin’s here? He’s…back?"

"Yes. It’s all over. They just appeared again…and we’ve started the cleanup."

"And how many did we lose?" Asked Giles softly.

"We can talk about that later," replied Charles. "You need to get your strength back first."

"Tell me, Charles. How many did we lose?"

"Three of the coven are dead…exhaustion apparently," Charles put the glass on the bedside table. "The military lost fifteen personnel…the rest of us escaped relatively unscathed."

"Eighteen," said Giles quietly, closing his eyes.

It is good that you are not blaming yourself. In fact, the number of deaths would have been considerably worse without you and your friend.

"Ethan," Giles opened his eyes. "Did Ethan survive?"

"Yes," said Charles. "He was lucky. Two of your young friends revived him."

"How is he?"

"He still hasn’t woken up. You rest…I’ll go and see Mr Travers."

Giles watched as Charles left the room.

"He’s changed," he said with a frown. "He seems harder…more confident."

The darkness would have had a significant effect on any who encountered it.

"It’s not just that." Giles smiled slightly. "It’s as though he’s comfortable with himself now. He’s lost the nervousness he had."

He has grown. He has faced death and survived.

"Happens to us all," replied Giles. "Now…what’s wrong?"

There is nothing wrong…as such.

"Then what?"

Whilst you were asleep a number of things became clear.

"You were still…aware?"

Indeed.

"So the fact that I’m unconscious doesn’t affect you?"

Not at all. I can still think. And I can still hear.

"I see," replied Giles, settling back down into bed. "So you heard a few things?"

I did. A number of people watched over your sleep at varying intervals. They talked.

"And you eavesdropped."

Do you wish to know what was said or not?

"Oh please," Giles grinned, "do continue."

There are concerns regarding Ethan Rayne.

"About a full scale investigation into whether he was responsible for Bernard’s death?"

Yes. There are also doubts as to his recovery. He has deteriorated. His physical condition appears to have reverted. I gather it is similar to when we placed him in the care of the coven.

"Interesting. I need to talk to him," said Giles, throwing back the bedclothes.

You are supposed to rest.

"I’ve rested for three days," Giles swung his legs over the side of the bed and slowly stood up. He groaned and held onto the bedside cabinet as a wave of dizziness struck him. Closing his eyes, he was unaware the door had opened.

"And what are you doing out of bed?" Snapped Quentin as Giles sat back on the bed.

"I’ve rested enough," replied Giles as the dizziness passed. He opened his eyes and looked at Quentin. "If I ask where you’ve been, will I get an honest answer?"

"You might," Quentin tried to contain the shudder that went through him but realised he had been entirely unsuccessful when Giles frowned at him.

"Not a pleasant place," said Giles quietly, "if your expression is anything to go by. You don’t look quite yourself."

And what do you think I should tell you, Rupert? That I can’t stand dark places anymore? That I have to sleep with a light on like a child who’s afraid of the dark? That I don’t like silence…or emptiness? I think not. I’ll deal with this in my own way. Quentin smiled slightly. "I want the Doctor to check you out first. THEN we can talk."

"We have a lot to talk about."

"Yes we do. Particularly concerning your intentions towards Ethan Rayne. There are some who are insisting upon a full investigation into his actions."

"Without him, we would have ALL died."

"Well, we can talk about that later. After you’ve rested."

"Fine," sighed Giles, laying down and pulling the bedclothes up. "I am still a bit tired."

Quentin nodded. "Before I go… there IS one other thing."

"Yes?"

"A message. From Legatus…the emissary of the First Evil. The message is for Vulcan’s Bane. He said to tell you that ‘we are even now’. I trust that makes sense."

It does. A lot of things become clear now.

"Apparently so," said Giles.

"Then I expect full details when you’ve recovered," replied Quentin as he turned and left, closing the door firmly behind him.

"The First Evil," said Giles, "that’s who was behind all this. And what do you know of this Legatus person?"

We have what you would call "history". I have encountered him before but he was not connected with the First Evil at that time. He was merely a tool of one of the Chaos Lords.

"And now he’s an emissary," sighed Giles.

We can speculate further when we have more information. Quentin Travers will provide some…but so will your friend, Ethan Rayne.

"IF he recovers."

I would suggest that any information your friend can provide would be of the utmost importance. It is obvious that he was in the employ of Legatus…whether his betrayal was planned or not, he must be our primary focus.

"So we need him to recover."

As his condition is less physically and more magically induced, then keeping him here would be futile.

"Where do we need to go?"

Tibet. To be precise, Tashilunpo Monastery. They are an ancient order with much mystical knowledge.

"I’m sure the Council can be persuaded to arrange safe passage for us," smiled Giles.

Excellent. Then we should leave as soon as you recover.

"No," replied Giles. "There are things we need to do first."

**********

FOUR DAYS LATER

 

It was raining again. Not much, just a light shower on a breezy, overcast day. Giles clasped his hands in front of him and stared down at the open grave, the soft voice of the Rector a soothing counterpoint to the wind.

You DO realise, he thought, that it’s rained at the last six funerals?

Is that a portent? An omen?

No. Just thought I’d mention it.

After today, it is over. Although I am not certain I fully understand your desire to attend the funerals of all those who died at Clunewic.

It was something I needed to do. Not just for myself…but for them. It is a mark of respect for the sacrifice they made.

If it is a mark of respect then should not a representative from the Council be here? The Coven did contribute much to the defence of the Council.

There is one. Me. The Council felt that to be sufficient.

I see. I am intrigued however.

Oh?

The lady whose funeral this is…she was a member of a Coven. The other two Coven members did not have funerals like this.

Sarah Nicholls had not made a Will, therefore, the wishes of her family were paramount. They wanted a Christian burial and the Coven acquiesced. They will hold their own ceremony at a later date.

Giles straightened up and bowed his head as the coffin was slowly lowered into the grave. He waited until the crowd around the graveside had thinned considerably before stepping back and glancing towards the road, where his car was parked on a grass verge. He could just make out the huddled figure in the passenger seat.

Time to go.

Indeed, responded Giles, just one last thing to do.

"Rupert?" Barbara put a hand on Giles’ arm. "I understand you’re leaving?"

"So are you, I gather?" Giles smiled slightly.

"We can’t really stay here," replied Barbara, as the remaining members of the Coven gathered around them. "There’s a small Coven in Devon…they’ve offered to take us in whilst we…recuperate."

"Will you come back?"

"I don’t know. That’s a decision we can leave open for the time being. Anyway, we just wanted to say goodbye and…" Barbara paused as Jayne tapped her arm. She sighed and rolled her eyes. "And Jayne wants to know if she can say goodbye to Ethan."

"Of course," smiled Giles. "He’s in the car…but he’s not speaking."

"I don’t think that makes any difference," replied Barbara as Jayne walked towards the road. "So…goodbye Rupert. Take care of yourself, okay?"

"You too…all of you."

Giles watched as the ladies walked slowly from the graveyard, huddled together and drawing strength from one another.

I hope they’ll be alright, he thought. They’ve been through a lot.

Indeed. They are not alone, however, and that is important.

Giles frowned, turning around as he sensed someone behind him.

"Were you just going to bugger off without saying goodbye, old chap?" Henry looked at Giles and raised an eyebrow.

"Hardly," smiled Giles.

"Well, I still haven’t forgiven you for palming me off with that London trip."

"I wasn’t palming you off, Henry. I really did need you there."

"I don’t mind telling you, it caused me a bit of a problem at the Museum."

"It did?" Giles frowned. "In what way?"

"Oh," Henry waved a hand, "I missed a meeting. Not for the first time though. Damned boring anyway…but it made me realise something."

"And what’s that?"

"That, unlike you, I can’t have two lives. So I’ve made a decision. I’m not cut out for the type of stuff you do…I’ll be happier at the Museum." Henry smiled. "Old fossils together."

"I think you’ve made the right decision, Henry," replied Giles. "Do you fancy telling Nicholas I won’t be back for a while?"

"Oh good lord…you’ve already been replaced, old chap," grinned Henry. "Quentin tattled to Nicholas…and the redoubtable Mrs Dawson is now sitting in your chair."

"She seems…efficient."

"Without a doubt. But it’s rather unsettling, isn’t it? Just goes to show that we’re all expendable."

"Thank you for that cheery thought, Henry," replied Giles wryly, "but I really must be going…plane to catch and all that."

"Right…of course," Henry held out his hand. "Goodbye, Rupert. Look me up when you get back."

"I will." Giles shook Henry’s hand. "Goodbye Henry."

**********

Quentin sat back and rubbed his head. He tried to concentrate, to shut out the sound of the seemingly constant sawing and hammering, but he was finding it increasingly difficult. It doesn’t help that my office has been relocated to the library, he thought. This room is too big and it echoes. On the bright side, it can’t take them TOO long to repair the staircase. Quentin sat up straight as a loud knock sounded on the library door.

"Come in," he said, picking up a pen. The door opened and Charles Grant walked in, closing the door firmly behind him. Quentin raised an eyebrow and looked quizzically at Charles. "Well?"

"Rupert’s luggage will be searched at the airport before he leaves," replied Charles.

"And Ethan Rayne’s?"

"And Ethan Rayne’s," confirmed Charles.

"Excellent," Quentin sat back once more. "If the sphere isn’t found in their luggage then you will send a team to search Rupert’s flat. If it’s not there then you will extend the search to everyone with whom Rupert has been in contact recently…do you understand?"

"I understand what I have to do," said Charles, "but I don’t understand WHY."

"And you don’t like it, do you?" Asked Quentin. "You think I’m treating Rupert badly after all he’s done?"

"Yes…yes, I do."

"I honestly don’t care what you think, Charles. And I don’t care whether you like it or not. That sphere is vital…and as such it should be in the care of the Council. Just do your job, Charles, and keep your reservations to yourself."

"Yes, sir," replied Charles, deliberately not making eye contact with Quentin, "but at the risk of bringing reservations out into the open, may I ask a question?"

Quentin stood up and walked to the window, clasping his hands behind his back and staring outside.

"I can’t guarantee an answer, Charles."

"After everything that’s happened, I rather think I deserve one," remarked Charles quietly.

"Ask your question," replied Quentin, the ghost of a smile on his face.

"When Rupert said he would take Ethan Rayne to Tibet…you didn’t argue. You agreed with his reasoning. Why?"

"Because I know he’ll come back," said Quentin. "He will find what he needs to know…and then he will return and tell us. The First Evil is not just another demon, Charles. This is something that could destroy the world we know…it could destroy the Council. Rupert knows how important this is…and in the circumstances I felt it worth letting him have a longer leash."

"I see."

"Besides…" Quentin frowned and turned to Charles. "What the hell is that minibus still doing here? The trainees were supposed to go back to London two hours ago."

"It appears that four of them have…" Charles paused and then smiled, "gone for a walk…sir."

"I take it I don’t need to ask WHICH four?" Replied Quentin sharply. "And I also don’t need to ask if this ‘walk’ will take them past the Church?"

"I wouldn’t know, sir."

"Of course you wouldn’t," Quentin smiled slightly. "Search THEIR luggage as well."

**********

Giles walked slowly along the Church path, turning his collar up as the wind started to increase again.

We have company. Vulcan’s Bane sounded amused and Giles glanced around to see four familiar figures standing by the graveyard gate. He smiled and quickened his pace, tapping James on the shoulder as he reached the gate.

"And what are you four doing here?"

"Well," began James, "we were just passing, sir."

"Yes," agreed Rachel with a smile, "and we saw you and decided to stop and say hello…so…’hello’."

Giles opened the gate and stepped outside.

"Hello to you, too," he smiled.

"Actually," said Alan, "we really wanted to say goodbye."

"And to thank you," smiled Rachel, "for recommending us for advanced training."

"Don’t thank me yet," replied Giles. "You may end up cursing me by the time you’ve finished."

"You will be coming back?" Asked James and Giles nodded.

"Yes, I will. I’m just not sure when." Giles glanced briefly towards his car. "However, I promise that when I DO come back, I’ll get in touch with you. All of you."

James nodded and held out his hand.

"Goodbye, sir."

"Goodbye," replied Giles, shaking each of their hands in turn. "And thank you."

"Come on," Rachel elbowed James. "We have a bus to catch, remember?"

"Oh shit…yes."

Giles grinned as, following a quick chorus of ‘goodbye’s’, the four headed back up the road.

"I’m glad they came," he muttered, watching them disappear from sight.

Indeed.

"Right," said Giles, crossing to his car, "let’s get this over with."

Giles opened the door and picked up a holdall from the back seat. Glancing at the passenger seat, he caught Ethan’s quizzical gaze and grinned.

"I won’t be long…just have to give the Rector a donation to the Church Organ Fund."

Ethan nodded slightly, his eyes closing as he settled back into his seat. Giles closed the door and walked back towards the Church.

You are certain this is the correct course of action?

Yes, thought Giles, I am. It needs to be safe.

Entering the church, Giles glanced around, smiling as he saw the Rector lighting candles near the altar. Approaching quietly, Giles cleared his throat.

"Excuse me? Reverend Downing?"

"Yes?" The Rector turned around, blowing out the lit taper in his hand. "Can I help…oh…Mr Giles isn’t it?"

"Yes," replied Giles, holding out his hand. The Rector shook it solemnly.

"And that would be the package you wish to leave in my care?"

"Indeed. I’m afraid I can’t tell you why…but please believe that it IS important."

"It is a most unusual request," frowned the Rector, "and are you sure the Diocese would not take better care of it?"

"Very sure," replied Giles, handing over the holdall. "You’ll find instructions in the bag on how to split the Sphere into sections. Should I not return within two years, I’d like you to…"

"Dispose of the sections accordingly," smiled the Rector. "My dear Mr Giles, this is all very secretive and rather intriguing."

"I know. And I’m sure you have doubts and reservations but…" Giles paused and then smiled slightly, "consider it a request for Sanctuary…in the moral rather than the legal sense."

"How can I resist such an appeal? I will take care of it, Mr Giles."

"Thank you, Rector. I hope to see you again soon." Giles turned and started walking back up the aisle.

"Oh, Mr Giles?"

Giles stopped and glanced behind him.

"Yes?"

"May God stand between you and harm in all the empty places where you must walk."

"Thank you."

Giles left the church and stepped off the path, walking across the grass and carefully avoiding the graves.

You are correct. It is the right decision to leave the Sphere here.

"You didn’t seem convinced earlier."

I was not. However, the Rector seems enthusiastic and perceptive…if a little innocent.

"I rather hope he stays that way," replied Giles. "After all, isn’t that part of why we do this? So the innocent remain innocent? So they can live their lives without…"

Without glimpsing the truth behind the veil?

"Yes," smiled Giles. "That’s rather poetic."

Hmm. It is entirely probable that that is YOUR influence.

Giles stopped and stared down at a grave. The headstone was obviously new, it seemed to shine amongst the dull grey granite all around it.

"I’m sure you already know what I want to say, so you’re saved a long winded and completely pointless speech," said Giles quietly. He paused and then smiled. "Goodbye, Bernard…and thank you."

Giles put his hands in his pockets and walked back to the car. Taking off his coat, he tossed it carelessly on the back seat before getting in and glancing at Ethan.

"Ready to go?"

Ethan opened his eyes and shivered, pulling his coat more tightly around himself. He stared at Giles, confusion evident on his face and then he shrugged, closing his eyes once more.

Let’s hope he’s well enough to survive the journey, thought Giles as he started the car.

Indeed. The information he has may prove to be vital when the First manifests.

How long do we have?

I do not know. I would be inclined to believe the manifestation is imminent due to the presence of Legatus.

We had trouble with a mere emissary…we barely survived, so how on earth can we defeat the First?

We cannot. The First can only be banished…not defeated. This was only a skirmish…the real battle has not started yet. We must arm ourselves with information and knowledge. Tibet is a repository of information, much of which predates anything the Council can access. The Monks are the guardians…and we will need their guidance and help.

Then what are we waiting for?

Giles steered the car off the grass verge and drove steadily along the narrow country road. He sighed and glanced at the sleeping Ethan.

"Seems like our destinies are linked again, but…maybe they always were. I wonder if we ever had a choice?" Giles smiled slightly. "Ironically, it seems that our survival…the survival of everything we hold dear…now depends on the information you have locked in that thick skull of yours."

Ethan muttered, shifting around in his seat and Giles sighed.

"Sleep, old friend. We have a very long way to go."

 

 

 

The End – but part four isn’t far away!