Brown Eyes Blue

See Part 1 for Ratings and Disclaimers

It Begins...

"I did a little-" she whispers back. "It's just so hard," her voice trembles slightly.

"I'll be here-try to sleep some more-okay?" her soft tone remains as she holds her tighter.

"Kennedy-I can't lose her." The redhead's tears start to fall.

"I won't let that happen-I promise." She turns the girl toward her and presses their lips together. "I promise." She holds her while she cries herself to sleep.

Down stairs the others sit around the table. Buffy, Xander, Anya, Giles and Dawn are silent no one wanting to be the one to bring up the subject. Finally it is the youngest who speaks, "When are you meeting the others?" Her eyes fall on her older sister.

"In the morning," she states. "Four girls, right?" Her eyes meet Giles'.

"Yes-that's the number reported by the council but they can't be sure."

"What are you going to tell Willow?" asks Anya.

"The truth I suppose," answers Giles.

"I think it's best-I mean I don't think she'll buy the whole family reunion bit," quips the Slayer.

"Nah-probably not-" agrees Xander as Buffy stands.

"We should all get some sleep-it might be the last for awhile." She looks around the table at her friends-no she amends-her family. Again there is quiet, "You should all stay here-it's safer." Giles nods his agreement and they all stand.

The next morning Kennedy is awake watching her lovers sleep. She holds Willow who is still holding Tara. She smiles as the blonde turns in her redhead's arms and opens her eyes. She sees Kennedy smiling and smiles back. "Hey-" she says quietly.

"Hey you," says the young Slayer-to-be as she carefully leans over Willow to kiss the other woman softly. "How you feeling?"

"Good-" she looks down at her redhead and then at Kennedy again. "She okay?"

"Better-finally got her to go to sleep." There is a pause, "Ready for me to bring you breakfast?"

Tara smiles, "You don't have to bring me breakfast. I should get up, take a shower-I really am okay."

Kennedy's eyes again meet Tara's and she can see the truth there. She smiles, "Need some help?" She raises a playful eyebrow. They look at Willow asleep between them-Tara bites her bottom lip. "She said one of us should keep an eye on you at all times."

"She did, did she?" Her tone changes a bit-she is trying to stay calm.

"You know she worries about you-and the baby."

"I know but sometimes-" she lets the sentence drop. "Okay-you can wash my back."

Kennedy smiles and gets out of bed meeting the blonde on her side to help her up. As they stand face to face the younger woman smiles, "Just your back?"

"We'll see," says Tara with a playful smile as they go to the bathroom on the other side of the room.

Later the redhead begins to wake up slowly. She stretches and finds the bed empty. She starts to panic but realizes that she hears watering running. The witch talks herself onto her feet and moves to the bathroom door. She opens it and begins to strip off her pajamas. She opens the shower door to find her lovers. "The bed was all lonely-" she pouts.

"Not lonely here," smiles Tara as she takes her girls hand and leads her under the water.

Downstairs, Buffy is returning with four very nervous teenagers. She is introducing them to the others as Willow, Tara, and Kennedy come down the stairs and into the living room. Willow is instantly nervous as she looks from one to the other and memories of her dreams return. "Buffy?"

"Will-I looked for you earlier, before I left, you were still sleeping. Let's get some coffee?" The redhead tightens her hold on Tara's hand. Buffy looks at Kennedy. "Tara will be fine with Kennedy-right?" She looks at the blonde.

The blonde kisses Willow gently on the lips, "Bring me some juice when you come back?"

Not totally convinced, the redhead looks at Kennedy. The younger woman smiles, "Coffee for me-" Willow nods and follows Buffy from the room while Tara and Kennedy sit together in the oversized chair.

In the kitchen Willow busies herself getting the drinks for her girls. Buffy watches her and then finally speaks, "Will-we need to talk."

"No-no we don't. It's happening-my visions-" Buffy walks toward the redhead who is now leaning against the counter. "This is were you tell me I'm wrong-they're friends of Dawn's here for a sleepover-" their eyes meet and there is silence.

As tears slip from Willow's eyes and down her face Buffy pulls her into a hug, "I wish I could Willow, but I can't."

After a few seconds Willow backs away, "Yeah-so what do we do? Who are they?"

"Slayers-like Kennedy-waiting to be called."

"Why are they here?"

"Protection-"

"From the First?" asks the redhead.

Buffy nods, "Bringers killed their watchers-tried to kill them but they escaped."

"What does the council say?"

"You mean the royal British pains in my ass?" Buffy rolls her eyes and Willow smiles briefly. "To look after them. That it's my job as Slayer. What do I do with a bunch of scared teenagers?"

"Train them-" comes Kennedy's voice from the doorway. They look toward her. "Teach them what it means to be a Slayer."

Willow walks toward her, "Tara?"

Kennedy presses a kiss to her girl's lips, "Tara is fine-you?"

"Been better-" she puts an arm around her.

"We'll get through this Will-we always do," states Buffy.

"Ever think you used up all your luck?" asks her best friend.

"Luck-you're kidding right?" Willow looks unsure. "It's all skill-" smiles the blonde.

Willow smiles, "Silly me-" they all become serious again.

"What's the plan?" asks Kennedy.

"Working on it. I think we need to find that scythe thing from Willow's vision.

"We're on it," assures the redhead as she gets Tara's juice and hands Kennedy her coffee.

Later the gang is in the middle of serious Scooby research. Willow's fingers click computer keys, while Tara and Kennedy read. Buffy and Giles are talking quietly, making plans to contact the council. Dawn is teaching the newbies the finer points of research while Xander and Anya come in with more books. "This is the last of them," he says as they sit down.

"Does that mean we can take a break?" asks Anya.

"Dinner isn't a bad idea, we've been at it for hours," replies Buffy.

"Can we order pizza?" asks Dawn.

"Sure-" smiles Buffy, "Take the wanna-bes with you and see what they want." The teenagers follow her to the kitchen.

Tara looks up from her book and watches Willow enter and re-enter information. "Still nothing sweetie?"

"It's so frustrating," relays the redhead.

"Why don't you take a break?" asks the blonde.

"Can't-need to keep working," states the hacker.

"Okay-we'll keep working," agrees Tara.

Kennedy looks from her blonde to her redhead and sees they are both tired, "Will-Tara needs to rest, why don't you go tuck her in?" Tara smiles at the younger woman, realizing her plan.

Willow looks up from the screen and at her girl, "Sorry baby I wasn't thinking-we'll rest and then when you're ready we'll research." She stands and so does Tara. They start to the stairs hand-in-hand.

Xander smiles at Kennedy, "Nicely done."

"Thanks-" she moves to the computer and begins where Willow left off. Buffy looks around at her friends unsure of how to handle the latest Big Bad.

Later Tara watches the redhead as she sleeps restlessly. She begins to mumble- "No-rocks-no-" she sits up and stares across the room.

Tara sits up with her and places a hand on her back. "Will-sweetie, bad dream?"

"It doesn't make sense," says the redhead.

"What doesn't?"

"There were rocks and they just kept growing-it was hiding something."

"The rocks were?" Willow nods. Tara seems lost in thought. "Willow remember before Kennedy came?"

"Vaguely-" she can't help but smile and so does Tara.

"Remember the dream-about Buffy?-"

Before she can finish an excited Willow jumps out of bed, "And the rock- she pulled the scythe from the rock, just like in the movie!" She runs out of the room and Tara slowly follows.

Down stairs the pizza has arrived and Kennedy is starting up the steps to get her girls. She stops as Willow runs into her, "Something not right?"

"No-I mean-I have to talk to Buffy," and without any farther explanation she is gone.

Kennedy meets Tara in the hallway, "I missed something?"

"Maybe a lead." They continue back to the others.

When they arrive in the kitchen Willow is in full babble mode. "You pulled it from a rock-it was in like a cave or maybe underground like-"

"Like a tunnel?" asks Dawn.

Willow nods, "Maybe the sewers-"

"Sunnydale has lots of those," states Xander. "I'll go see if I can get the blueprints."

"You can do that?" asks Buffy unsure.

"I work construction-I know people." He smiles and so does Anya.

"Way cool-" says the Slayer with a smile. "Should I come with?"

"No, I'll be fine." He stands and so does Anya. "Ahn-"

"It's boring here with the books-" she gives him a sad face and he caves. She stands and kisses him. The two leave together.

Buffy stands, "I'll be back before dark-Will can you keep an eye on things?"

"Sure-but where are you going?"

"To find Spike he knows the tunnels-he'll know if something's going down." She goes as well.

Just before sundown Buffy and Spike return. The others are in the dining room looking at the plans Xander brought back. "Any luck?" asks Kennedy.

"No-" pouts Buffy.

"Sorry love but it's quiet underground." He looks down at the plans.

"Okay-" says Kennedy realizing Willow is getting upset. "Nothing in the tunnels-but there's lots of things underground."

Tara sees what she's trying and adds, "That's right-basements-" she looks at her girl.

"Subways," adds one of the Potentials.

"No subways in Sunnydale," states Anya.

"Really?" asks the amazed girl.

"Unbelievable but true-" adds Dawn. "Small town-but you can't say there's nothing to do. Well you could but-" Buffy gives her younger sister a look. "Stopping now."

Tara smiles, "Nice babble."

Dawn smiles, "Thanks-learned from the best." Willow still deep in thought doesn't reply.

"Wine cellars," Kennedy continues.

"Lots of wine cellars in California," confirms Buffy.

"It's too late to get a list tonight. It would be better to start fresh tomorrow," says Giles as he looks around the room.

"Tomorrow-Dawnie could you get the girls settled?"

"Living room good?"

"Taken-" states Anya.

"Basement?" tries the teen again looking at her sister. The Slayer looks toward Spike. "Right-" She looks at Anya and Xander and makes the ultimate sacrifice. "Anya you and Xander can have my room-we'll do the sleeping bag thing in the living room." The Slayer smiles at her sister.

"That's very nice of you-" states the ex-demon. She stands taking Xanders hand. "Goodnight." She drags him towards the stairs.

Dawn stands and the girls follow her from the room. Giles takes off his glasses and wipes them. "While you were gone the council called-others are coming the day after tomorrow." He returns his glasses and looks at his Slayer.

"There's no place to put them," states Buffy like that will end it.

"None the less-" Giles adds.

"Have they found anything useful?" He shakes his head. "If this scythe is a Slayer thing how can they not know?"

"They know Slayer, they just aren't sharing," Spike's words echo her thoughts.

Tara takes Willow's hand and so does Kennedy. Spike sees this and smiles at the redhead. She blushes, "Goodnight Spike."

"Red-" the three leave.

Later that night Kennedy slips quietly down to the kitchen. There she finds Buffy and Spike drinking coffee and blood respectively. "Couldn't sleep either?" asks the blonde.

"I need to hit something-" stats the Slayer-to-be. "This is so frustrating."

"You'll find the pretty axe thing-in the nick of time. It's what you hero types do."

"Hero?" smiles Kennedy.

Spike nods and smiles, not able to resist the opportunity to embarrass the young would be Slayer he says, "So the three of you?"

"Spike-" starts Buffy with a warning.

"No, it's a fair question," states Kennedy. "And to answer it-yes."

"Interesting-"

"Finish that sentence with anything about a camera or joining us and I'll have to stake you." Her tone is serious and his smile fades. Buffy smiles as she suppresses a laugh. "Poor Spikey-"

He glares at her, "Now Slayer-"

Before he can continue Kennedy speaks again, "Let's go kill something."

"I'm not sure leaving the house unprotected is a good idea," Buffy says.

"Willow and Tara can do that if there's trouble," assures the younger woman.

"And the Watcher is here-it'll be safe enough," Spike adds.

"Okay-" concedes the blonde, "But let me tell Xander and Giles that we're leaving.

Later Willow sleeps with her arms wrapped around the blonde. She turns slightly onto her back as she mumbles, "Where are you?"

Tara opens her eyes, "I'm here Will-"

"Raisins-in the sun-" she continues in her sleep and Tara smiles as she presses a kiss to her girl's cheek. She watches her sleep.

Buffy, Spike and Kennedy have finished their patrol. Venting her frustration has relaxed the younger girl some, though she is trying to convince the Slayer to extend their search. "Come on-couldn't we just check out one more?"

"It's late and we have an early day tomorrow."

"I'm not tired-please?" The puppy dog eyes make an appearance.

"That works with Will right?" Buffy smiles.

"What?" asks Kennedy innocently.

"That face?" offers Spike.

Caught, she smiles. "Willow-yes, Tara-no." There is a pause and then a question. "How about with you?"

Before Buffy can answer she sees a group of Bringers approach, unaware of the Slayers. She clamps a hand over the younger girl's mouth and pulls her behind a mausoleum. Spike ducks there as well. Kennedy struggles to get away unsure of why she is being held. Buffy is able to turn her toward the unwanted guests and Kennedy stands still.

As they pass by the Slayer looks at the Slayer-to-be and whispers, "You go home tell the others-"

"No way I'm leaving. This is my fight too. We all go together-"

Buffy looks at the determination in the younger girl's eyes and can't help the smile, "Did Willow teach you the resolve face?" Kennedy simply nods. "Figures-be careful. I get you killed and she's gonna be pissed." The three quietly follow the Bringers.

An hour later the Slayer, the Slayer-to-be and Spike stand behind a group of trees in front of a building secluded within the forest. "What is that?" whispers the brunette.

"Ah-a winery maybe?"

Kennedy asks, "Willow's dream- that scythe thing, do you think it's in there?"

"Could be-" Kennedy starts inside but the Slayer grabs her. "Slow down-we don't know how many Bringers are in there."

"She's right love-" his eyes meet Kennedy's. "Let me take a look-see." Before Buffy can argue, he moves closer and finally works his way inside.

Once inside the blonde vamp follows the sound coming from below ground. He sees a group of about twenty Bringers at work. They are digging, trying to get something out of the rock. He smiles when he sees the weapon but it fades as he sees the Slayer ordering them to work harder. "What the bloody hell-?" He looks around once more before making his way back outside.

"What did you see?" asks the younger woman impatiently before he can speak.

"It's in there-along with about twenty of the eyeless knife wielding types."

"Twenty-can we handle twenty?" The Slayer looks at those around her.

"There's more," says the vampire. Before anyone can asks he continues. "The leader-the one doing the bossing around. She looks like you," his eyes fall on the Slayer and she seems rattled.

"The First-" says Kennedy.

"Yeah-" his eyes meet Buffy. "You okay with this or do you want to go get the others?"

"Now's good-" she moves forward and they follow.

Inside the Slayer and her fighters reach the underground location. Buffy watches as the blonde image of herself rants at the Bringer digging around the Scythe. She steps forward so she can be seen. "I'm so much prettier then you."

The shocked figment turns to the voice and smiles, "Slayer-have to admit this is a surprise." Buffy steps closer and swings only to end up on the ground as her hand passes through the mirror image. "Oops-" laughs The First. "Kill them all," she orders and the Bringers attack.

At the Summers' house Willow is tossing in a fitful sleep. Tara wakes up and tries to sooth her by rubbing her stomach. Willow sits up and screams, "Kennedy!" She looks around the room as the light comes on.

The End is Near

Tara, who is now standing in front of the brunette, wipes the blood from the woman's cheek with her fingers. "What happened?"

Kennedy smiles, "We found Will's scythe."

"You did?" questions the redhead. "Where?"

"A church kinda-there was a wine cellar in the basement."

And from the door Faith surveys the room and makes some quick observations and smiles. She adds, "And the guys with the knifes."

"Faith-" Tara is unsure. Willow moves between the two.

"Why are you here?" asks Willow.

"Angel-he said you might need some help."

"You should see this woman fight-she kicked Bringer ass."

"Didn't do anymore then anyone else."

"Right Buffy would have been-" her words stop.

"Buffy's hurt?" asks Willow.

"She's five-by-five Red," she assures the woman. "She's showing her new prize to G-man." She watches as Tara takes Kennedy's hand. "I'll let you guys sleep-we'll get with the talking tomorrow." With those words she slips out and closes the door behind her.

Willow takes Kennedy's other hand, "You're really okay?" Kennedy nods. "She didn't hurt you?"

"She?" confused. "Faith? Why would you think she'd hurt me?"

Tara looks at the blood-covered girl and decides to change the subject, "Let's get you cleaned up."

"What aren't the two of you telling me?"

"You need a shower and some bandages-" she looks at Kennedy, then Tara- "And you need sleep."

Tara leans in and kisses her redhead. "I'll sleep better after I see Kennedy's okay with my own eyes."

"Tara I am-"

Willow smiles, "I think we should give up now it'll save time."

"Right," smiles Kennedy. "Okay-" she kisses her blonde. "You can look-" she sees the smile cover Tara's face. "Wanna be my nurse?" Tara raises a playful eyebrow and nods.

"While you take care of our girl-I'm gonna check with Buffy," Willow kisses both of them and leaves.

Downstairs Willow finds Buffy, Xander, Giles and Faith sitting at the table in the dining room. The scythe lies on the table. "So you found it-it's real," she runs her hand just above it and she shivers.

"You feel it too?" asks Buffy.

"Yeah-power-old mystical."

"When I hold it, it feels like it's always been mine."

"Faith does it feel that way to you?"

"Don't know Red-haven't held it."

"Maybe you should," says Buffy though Xander and Giles both shoot her a look that says- 'Huh? have you lost your mind.'

"You mean it B?" The blonde Slayer nods. Faith slowly reaches for it and picks it up. "Oh yeah-definitely feel it." She puts it down. "What's it mean?"

"Not sure," says Buffy. "But we'll hit the books first thing tomorrow.

From the door Spike speaks, "Won't find it in the books-"

"You know this how?" asks Xander.

"Those council wankers, they wouldn't share this with anyone."

"Then how do we find out about it Spike?-I'm sure you've got the answers." Xander isn't happy to see the bleached blonde.

But to his surprise it is the Watcher who answers, "I'll arrange a flight in the morning-have a chat face to face." Giles' words sound angry. "I'll get the information we need."

Buffy nods, not quite sure what to make of his tone. "We should call it a night."

"Right-" Faith starts to the door.

"Where are you going?" asks Buffy.

"Find a motel."

"Stay here-" she half smiles, "Everyone else is."

"You sure?" she looks around at the Scooby gang.

"Sure-if you don't mind bunking with me."

"Been in prison pretty sure I've bunked with worse." She says with a smile as she turns and goes up the stairs.

"Buffy-" Willow starts but stops.

"She's different-she can help."

"Okay-"

"Thanks for-"

"It's okay-I trust you."

Xander pipes in, "But can we trust her?"

"Yeah," assure the blonde Slayer.

The sun is just starting to rise. The Slayer-to-be and her witches try to sleep but aren't having much success. Kennedy rubs Tara's growing stomach only to hear her blonde's soft words, "She likes that," Tara smiles.

"She likes it or you do?" questions Kennedy.

"We both do-"

"And you know this how? Mother-daughter chats?" asks the brunette.

Tara can't help but smile at her young Slayer-to-be's words. "Something like that," says the blonde.

Willow joins the conversation as her hand moves to rest next to Kennedy's. "She also likes it when you sing to her."

"She does?" Tara asks.

"Absolutely-" assures Willow. She moves down Tara's body to rest her head on her rounded stomach. She presses her lips there and feels Tara's hand in her hair. "Sing us to sleep?" she asks quietly.

"You have a song in mind?"

"No," she says.

"The one about the stars," supplies Kennedy as she snuggles into the blonde's shoulder. She kisses Tara's neck as she takes Willow's hand in hers. Tara starts to sing softly.

A few days later Giles is back with some ancient texts. He and Buffy are looking through them. "They just handed them over?" she questions.

"Not exactly-no, but the how isn't important right now."

"True-research is on then." She picks up a book.

"The others?"

"Xander and Anya are at the magic box, Dawns at school-much to her dislike, Faith went out-not sure where exactly, and Willow and Kennedy took Tara for her check up."

He picks up a book and begins to read.

At the doctor's office Willow, Kennedy, and Tara are waiting as the doctor checks the chart. "Your vitals look good-How are you feeling?"

"Good-tired sometimes," she admits, "But good." Her hand goes to her stomach without her realizing it.

"At twenty weeks we usually do an ultrasound-any objections?"

"No-" smiles the blonde. "Can't wait to see her."

"I'll be right back."

Later the three young mothers stare at their baby on the monitor. Her heartbeat is strong, "Does she have her thumb in her mouth?" asks Willow.

"She does-" confirms the doctor.

"Wow-" is all that Kennedy can manage as she tries to control tears.

Tara has lost control as the wetness slips down her cheeks as she smiles. "Amazing-" Willow takes her hand and Kennedy's.

"Pictures?" asks the doctor.

"Yeah-please," says the blonde as her composure returns.

She snaps four and then removes the wand from Tara's stomach. She hand the blonde the pictures and smiles, "I'll let you get cleaned up and then see you in my office."

"Office?" questions Kennedy.

"Is something wrong?" asks Willow.

"No-just routine things. Take your time." She leaves.

The three young mothers smile as they look through the pictures, "Wow-" repeats Kennedy.

Tara smiles and pulls the girl closer for a kiss, "You okay?"

"I'm gonna be a mom."

Willow smiles, "Known that for a while sweetie-"

"I guess-yeah but-now-" she shakes her head. "I've seen her and-wow-" she smiles.

"Yeah-I get that," agrees the redhead.

"And soon we'll be able to feel her move-" adds Tara as she fixes her shirt and sits up.

"Can't wait," says the other two in unison. The blonde smiles.

A few weeks later Buffy and Faith walk into the living room where the gang is gathered. The blonde Slayer watches as Willow touches the scythe, as she does the weapon begins to glow. "What the hell?" asks Faith.

"Not sure but every time she touches it we get pretty lights," informs Xander.

"Anyone else tried?" asks Buffy.

"No-" Giles says.

Willow lays it on the table. Buffy looks at Xander, "Xander?"

"Me?" he asks unsure. She nods. "Okay," he states as he wipes his hands on his thighs and then picks it up. Nothing happens. "Sorry," he says as he looks to the Slayer.

"It's okay-" she looks at Giles. The man picks it up and nothing. "Dawnie-"

"Are you sure?-Magical energy ball once-" she seems unsure. "What if I break it?"

"You won't-" Buffy tells her.

The teenager picks it up and again nothing happens. She puts it down, "Glad that's over."

"Spike-" they all look at her.

The vamp picks it up and looks at her, "Sorry love." He puts it down.

"Tara?"

Willow looks unsure, "What if it hurts her?"

"It won't-it can't it's good-" Tara explains. She picks it up and as she does the glow returns. "That's wow-" she puts it down.

"Wow?" smiles Kennedy.

"Yes wow-" she says playfully, "Other people can use the word you know."

"Really?" smiles her Slayer-to-be, Tara nods.

"So is it a witch thing?" asks Xander.

"Or maybe it's because they're making with the-" before Faith can finish Buffy looks at the other Slayer. "I'm just saying-"

"Don't say it-" Giles requests.

"Kennedy your turn," Buffy says. She looks from Willow to Tara and reaches for the scythe as she licks her lips. When she picks it up it doesn't glow but she can feel the power. "Kennedy?"

"It feels-like it's mine."

Faith nods, "Cause it is-it belongs to the Slayers."

"But I'm not-" starts Kennedy.

"But you will be," says Willow with a smile. Buffy and Faith look at Willow unsure. "A dream-" she says simply.

"So we die?" asks Faith. "Bound to happen eventually."

"But you don't-" states Willow. Her voice is certain. "In the dream she brings it to you-you're all there."

"How?" asks Giles.

"I don't know-" Willow shakes her head. "I just know what I saw. The dreams are always right."

"So the glowing-does it mean that magic makes it happen?"

"Maybe-" Tara answers and looks to Giles. "Where did the power of the Slayer originate?"

"Ah-the First Slayer was chosen to protect the people. The First Watchers gave it to her but no one knows how."

"I'm thinking we do now," says Dawn.

"Bit's right-the scythe holds the power of the Slayer."

"Meaning?" asks Kennedy.

"If we can figure out how it works everyone who's been chosen can become a Slayer." Tara looks at the Watcher.

"That's cool shit," states Faith.

"Liking the not dying part," agrees Buffy.

"How?" asks Xander.

"Magic-" says Willow her words soft and nervous, "Strong-stronger then we've ever seen."

"The coven?"

"No-" Kennedy realizes why Willow is suddenly worried. "Willow and Tara-together." The redhead leaves the room and Tara follows.

Kennedy looks towards them but then back to Buffy as the blonde speaks. "Can we stop the First?"

"Probably-but-the baby-the magic drains and it's-" her words fade and she looks away.

"We'll find another way." Buffy says to the girl.

Kennedy nods, "I need to-" she looks to the stairs.

"Go-we're good here," says Buffy and Kennedy jogs out of the room.

"Now what?" asks Xander.

"I'll call Althennea," says Giles.

Upstairs Willow is staring out the window. Tara moves in front of her and kisses her softly. "Listen to me," she lifts the girl's face so their eyes meet, "I won't do anything to put her in danger."

"I know-but-what if we think it's safe and it's not?" Willow's tears fall.

"No-no-you saw her, she'll be fine."

"We don't know-I saw Kennedy get shot but we stopped it. We could change something and she could-" the crying witch leans her head on Tara's shoulder. "Tara-" the tears continue.

"Shhh-" she presses her lips to the top of her girl's head. "Shhh-"

Willow feels arms wrap around her waist from behind and then soft lips on her neck. Kennedy's voice fills her ear, "We won't do it if there's any chance it'll hurt her."

"But that would mean you won't-" Willow stops.

"The Slayer thing-no big-our baby that's big," she smiles as she reaches past Willow to touch Tara's face with her hand. "I'll always keep her safe no matter what."

Willow turns so that she can see both of her girls. "Okay-"

"Okay-" smiles Tara as she leans in and kisses first the redhead and then the brunette. "I-ummm-" her hand goes to her stomach.

"Tara?" they say at the same time.

"She moved-" Tara smiles brightens the room. "She moved," restates the woman. Willow and Kennedy put their hand on Tara's stomach and wait.

A few minutes later the three moms-to-be are lying on the bed still waiting for the baby to kick again. "Are you sure it was a kick?" asks Kennedy for the third time.

Tara shoots her a mock glare, "Yeah-"

"Why won't she do it again?" pouts the redhead.

"She will-" says Tara.

"When she'd good and ready," concedes Kennedy.

"Thinking she takes that after you," teases Willow.

"Me?" asks Kennedy as she feigns hurt. "You saying I'm stubborn?"

"A little," admits Willow with a smile.

Tara smiles at their playful banter as she closes her eyes. Willow smiles as she sees this and snuggles closer into her blonde's shoulder. "Sweet dreams baby," whispers the redhead.

Kennedy kisses Tara's cheek and snuggles in close as well, "Sleep tight." Willow and the Slayer-to-be lock hands on Tara's stomach. "We'll wait her out," she whispers and the witch nods.

Later Willow opens her eyes as she focuses on the voice speaking softly in her mind, 'Feel that?' asks Kennedy. Willow smiles and sits up a little as she feels the baby move under her hand.

'Goddess-it's really her,' a tear slides down her face. Tara's eyes open and she smiles as she sees the women she loves with their heads resting on her stomach. "She moved."

"Felt that-" Tara smiles.

"That's so cool-" she presses a kiss to Tara's stomach. "Come on baby girl do it one more time for Mama-" she coaxes the growing child. And again they wait.

"You know while we wait we could pick out names," volunteers Willow.

"I like that idea," agrees Kennedy.

"I've got a name," smiles Tara.

"You do?" Asks Willow.

"If it's okay?"

"You gonna tell us?" prods Kennedy.

"I want it to be a surprise," Tara says softly.

"A surprise," smiles the redhead, "can we have a hint?"

"Nope-" smiles Tara.

Here answer is met with a chorused, "Meanie," from her lovers.

Days and weeks pass and the Scooby Gang begins to get a better understanding of what they face. A bit of unexpected news from Althennea has them all unsure. Giles turns to the others and speaks, "It's been confirmed. The council was in session so most of the Watchers were present."

"So, they're gone-wiped out?" asks Dawn.

"I'm afraid it's so," says Giles.

"Now what?" asks Willow-knowing the answer but hoping against all hope she's wrong.

"The First has made its move, we must now plan a course of action," the Watcher answers.

"And this plan-does it include the scythe and-" her words stop as she takes Tara's hand.

"Will-if there's any other way," Buffy starts.

"We know," answers Kennedy.

"Let's gather the others-" says Giles and he walks out of the room.

The next two weeks pass quickly as research and training is stepped up. The twenty-seven teenagers who have been camping out at Castle Summers are as ready as they can possibly be. The meeting in the living room is led by Buffy with Faith giving her full support. "So it's up to you-stay and fight or we'll get you a bus ticket," Buffy states.

"This scythe will give us power?" asks Rona.

"That's the plan-" says Dawn.

"I'm in," states the Potential. Around the room the words are echoed. Most choose to fight; though the dangers are many.

Buffy and Faith walk the cemetery with Spike. "So what do you think we'll find down there?" asks Faith.

"My guess-those uber vamps-and lots of them."

"A hundred?" asks Spike.

"Maybe more-"

"How do we stop them-even thirty Slayers-not liking the odds."

At the Summers' house Willow sits up at the desk going over the calculations for the fifth time in the last hour. Kennedy walks over to her and begins to massage her neck. "M-mmm feels nice." Kennedy kisses her lips as she turns.

"Come to bed and I'll make it even nicer," smiles the dark girl.

"Yeah-" she raises an eyebrow playfully. "We might wake Tara," says Willow as she bites her bottom lip.

"We'll be really quiet." Kennedy pulls the woman to her feet and into her arms. Her hands begin to caress Willow's back and sides-just brushing her breasts as they kiss.

"Not something I'm quiet at sweetie," reminds Willow as they break the kiss for air.

"True-but we can practice." They kiss softly and make their way to the bed. As they kiss and caress Willow moans softly.

Tara stirs slightly and turns towards them. She smiles as she opens her eyes, her runs her fingers along Kennedy's shoulder. "Hey-" whispers the girl as she bites her bottom lip. "You should be asleep," she states as her hands find their way under Willow's tank. She massages the soft mounds gently as the redhead moans louder.

"Not sleepy anymore," says the blonde. Her hand slides under Kennedy's top and with her nails she traces small circles there. "Okay?"

"Oh yeah-way better than okay."

The next morning the gang is in the war room going over the last minute details. They are planning to attack the vineyard the next morning at sunup. Willow and Tara talk with Giles and Buffy about the magic end of the venture while Faith and Kennedy ready the troops.

Faith and Kennedy stand alone in the back yard. The weapons have been passed on to Xander so that he can load them in the bus Spike "borrowed."

The young Slayer-to-be looks at the dark haired Slayer and speaks, "Will told me about before-"

"Figured," admits Faith. "That's not me anymore."

"I get that," Kennedy takes a breath and looks Faith in the eye. "You liked her then didn't you?"

"Yeah-made a play and she blew me off. Told me she was straight. Knew she wasn't pissed me off so- I should've realized then she didn't know-hadn't come to terms you know? But I was too wrapped up in me." There is a pause and Faith speaks, "We good? By gones and all?"

"Yeah-just-"

"Don't have to say it-she's not available." Faith smiles. "So how's the whole three thing working for you?"

"Go away-you're as bad as Xander." Kennedy smiles as she pushes Faith playfully, "Good-it's good." They walk toward the house. "Faith-" they stop on the steps to the porch.

"What's the what Junior?"

"Anything happens to me-make sure they're safe?" Faith simply nods and they go inside.

The next morning Buffy is standing in the kitchen with Spike. They kiss softly, as they break apart their eyes meet, "When this is over-" Spike starts but her fingers on his lips stop him. She hands him a ring. "What's this-a proposal?" He smiles.

"Willow made it-protection-so you don't get toasty when the light show starts."

"Nice of her-"

"My idea," smiles the blonde.

"Nice of you," they kiss again. Faith clears her throat as she walks in. They pull apart and go to opposite sides of the room. Before she can make a comment the others fill the room.

Giles looks at those around him, "The bus is ready when you are."

"Let's do this-" says the blonde Slayer.

"What-no speech?" teases Kennedy.

"Time for talking's over-time to kick ass!" They file out of the house; Buffy first followed by Xander, Kennedy, Willow, Tara, Dawn, Anya and the Potentials. Giles and Faith bring up the rear-

"Kick ass and not even waste the time taking names," responds the once dark Slayer.

The Final Road

A few seats back he sees Anya with her head on Xander's shoulder. The boy had become a man against all the odds. He was responsible, hard working and he would be a good husband. Giles again smiled as he remembered the ring he saw Xander give the once demon that was to be his wife. No one else knew-he had been sworn to secrecy. The announcement would be made after the apocalypse was averted.

To their left and back one row was Faith. The once dark Slayer was again on the side of good. Her years in prison had changed her, her new found maturity and sense of duty was refreshing for the ex-watcher. The potential sitting next to her began to talk nervously and the Slayer simply smiled, listening to the girl.

In the seat that stretched the back of the bus sat Willow, Tara and Kennedy. The three of them were quiet as they thought about what was to come. Willow would do the incantation and try to connect with the mystical realm while Tara would anchor her here. Kennedy's job was much as it had been in England-protect the witch no matter the cost but now the protection would have to cover Tara and their unborn child as well. The young woman is nervous but tries hard to keep it hidden from the blonde. Tara smiles up at the Slayer-to-be, in her mind she speaks. 'Don't worry we'll be fine,' are the soft words she hears.

'Yeah-just jitters. Piece a cake right?'

'Absolutely-' adds Willow and the two smile at her. 'Sorry-' the redhead smiles. 'But you looked all with the worrying-' she presses a kiss to Kennedy's lips and speaks softly. "No worrying-"

"No worrying-" says Kennedy. Her eyes fall to Tara's rounded stomach. "I just-"

Tara takes her hand and places it on her stomach. On cue the baby kicks, "She knows you'll keep her safe. She trusts you-we trust you." She kisses the girl. "Okay?"

Kennedy nods as she tries to relax-she focuses her attention on the movement of her child beneath her hand. "I can't wait to see you," she whispers.

"It won't be much longer," smiles Willow-her hand joining Kennedy's. "A couple more months."

"Twelve weeks," amends Tara. "We haven't even started on the nursery."

"First thing when we get home-" assures Kennedy.

"Can we decorate it with Winnie-the-Pooh?" asks Willow with a smile.

"We'll see," smiles Tara. Their conversation stops as the bus does.

They look around at the wooded area and Buffy speaks, "We walk in from here. Remember-stay quiet and stay together." Everyone starts to unload from the bus.

As they approach the old church Buffy speaks telepathically to Willow. 'Just inside the door there's a room. You should be safe there. Give us two minutes to get into position and then start.'

Tara joins their conversation. 'You have the light balls we made?'

'Distributed among the group-' confirms the Slayer.

'And Spike's ring?' asks Willow.

She smiles as she hears the vampire's words in her mind, 'Got it love-meet you in the bus.' He walks ahead to take the point.

Buffy glances up at him and then back to the witches before her eyes meet Kennedy's, 'No one gets in-'

'Got it-' says the younger girl.

Buffy jogs away to catch Spike as Faith joins the three women. 'When this is over you'll be one of us.'

'Just want to make sure my family's safe the rest-' 'Right-' she looks at Willow, 'Red did you tell her about the Double H's?' Willow blushes and shakes her head. Faith leaves with a laugh barely audible.

'Double H's?'

'I'll explain later,' Willow assures her lover.

'Is it bad?'

Tara is the one smiling now, 'Just leave it to us,' she smiles at her redhead and then back to her soon-to-be Slayer. 'We'll take care of it.'

'Okay-' they look up and see the building in front of them. Spike and Buffy are standing at the door waving them in. They move to the door cautiously and follow the pair inside. Faith covers their rear as she enters as well followed by the potentials.

Once inside the room Kennedy looks around and decides that it is indeed secure. She nods to Willow and Tara, at her okay the witches begin to ready the room with candles. After placing and lighting them Willow sits on the floor. Kennedy smiles as Tara starts to sit as well, the younger woman takes her blonde's hand and helps her to the floor. Tara smiles up at her, "Thank you-" she says softly. Kennedy begins to make the circle with the sand and the witches begin to call the corners.

Moving to the bag on the floor Kennedy gets the scythe and places it next to the redhead. "Ready?" she asks.

Tara looks at Willow and her lover nods, "Yeah-ready." They all three kiss softly. Kennedy sits next to them outside the circle in a position to see them and the door. The chanting begins.

As soon as the redhead touches the scythe it begins to glow. "Ancient ones release the power to those who are chosen-" she repeats it again and on the third time the glow increases. She gasps as does Willow as the power surges through them. Kennedy watches unsure- "Oh-my-"

"Goddess-" finishes Tara as she feels more energy. Kennedy stands unsure as both the witches begin to glow a soft white-Willow's hair is changed as well.

"Willow-Tara-" her words stop as the scythe begins to float into the air.

The Scooby gang is now standing outside the wine cellar. As they break through the door the shocked Bringers launch an attack. As the gang tries to hold them off with the help of the potentials, Buffy, Faith and Spike seek out the First.

As they climb down a set of stairs they find what they expected only the number is far more-closer to a thousand. They look at the uber-vamps, Turok-Han, Giles had called them and Faith is the first to speak, "Son of a Bitch-"

"I'll second that love," adds Spike. They ready themselves for the fight as the vamps turn to attack.

In the other room Willow's hand has returned to the scythe, her eyes are now locked with Tara's and they turn to Kennedy. The young Slayer is overwhelmed as the power of the scythe races through her, but unlike with Willow and Tara the power stays. Her breathing quickens and she begins to smile. The others smile as well. "Kennedy-" says Willow, "Sweetie-"

"You're a Goddess-" pants Kennedy, "Both of you," she amends.

"And you're a Slayer-take this to Buffy." The redhead hands the scythe to the new Slayer.

Kennedy stands unsure about leaving her family, "Willow-"

"Go-" whispers Tara, exhausted. "We'll be okay." Kennedy nods and runs from the room with the scythe.

Willow and Tara move closer and fall onto their sides. The redhead pulls herself to Tara and holds the girl in her arms protectively. "Got you-rest," she whispers as she places a kiss to the blonde's temple. Without protest Tara's eyes close. Willow fights to stay awake.

Kennedy runs into the cellar to see the Bringers nearly defeated, no match for the newly born Slayers, "Damn-I missed the fun!" She looks around for Buffy. "Where's Buffy?" she asks. But before they can answer she hears the fighting from below. "Let's go!" she orders and they start down the stairs.

Buffy, Faith and Spike fight against the prehistoric vamps. They are getting backed into a corner as the new Slayers enter the room. Kennedy quickly spots Buffy and yells- "Buffy!" The Slayer turns and she tosses her the scythe and the balance of power shifts. They fight hand to hand with the demons and though some fall most are able to defeat their foe. As others approach and the First's laugh fills the cavern Kennedy reaches into her pocket and takes out the stone. "Buffy-" the older Slayer sees what she is about to do and nods.

"Now!" shouts the blonde and those present take out the stones they too carry.

"You're up Junior," smiles Faith as she continues to fight.

Kennedy closes her eyes and begins to chant. As the words fill the room a soft light begins to appear. As the light gets brighter the vamps try to retreat but have no place to run. Giles, Xander and a few new Slayers have barricaded their escape route. They growl in frustration and then pain as they begin to turn to dust. The fighting stops as they watch the scene unfold around them.

The First turns to the small group of Bringers who enter, "Find the witches!" The Bringers run from the room.

Kennedy hears his words and turns to Buffy- "Go-" instructs the Slayer. "We got it under control."

Kennedy turns and runs from the room. Faith looks to Buffy her eyes unsure and Buffy nods. Faith smiles.

Kennedy runs through the cellar and towards the room she left her lovers in. Just as she's about to open the door she is jumped by two Bringers. She fights them but is knocked to the ground. Just as the Bringer is ready to stab her a hand grabs him and he falls. Kennedy looks up to see Faith smiling above her. She helps her to her feet and they continue to the witches.

They enter the room to find them surrounded by a group of twelve Bringers. Willow is trying to keep a barrier in place but her power is weak. Kennedy and Faith begin to fight and Bringers begin to die as the barrier collapses. Tara pulls Willow closer and she holds up a hand just as two Bringers reach for them. Her magic causes them to be thrown away. Kennedy and Faith finish off the enemy, the last two run away. The new Slayer runs to her family. "Are you okay?" Both witches nod. "Sure?" Again they nod too drained to speak. Kennedy sits down between them and hugs them both.

Faith smiles but it fades as she hears running feet approaching. "We got company," she states and Kennedy stands. "Let's get out of here." She helps the witches to their feet one at a time but neither can walk unaided. Faith looks to Kennedy and picks up Willow, Kennedy picks up Tara and they start out of the room.

In the outer room they find Giles and the others. "Faith-the cavern is collapsing. Get them to safety."

"Where's B?"

"Still fighting," he states.

Xander steps closer to Faith as he sees Willow, "She okay?"

"Just drained," she puts the now sleeping girl in his arms, "Get her to the bus." She goes toward the cellar.

"Faith-" Giles starts.

"Get them out, we'll meet you at home." She turns away again.

Kennedy looks at the Slayer who saved her and makes a decision to help. She hands Tara to the watcher. "Kennedy-" Tara starts.

"I'll be careful," she kisses her and leaves with the Slayer. Xander looks worried but he leaves and the others follow.

Faith and Kennedy fight their way to Buffy and Spike. The cavern is filled with Turok-Han, at least twenty still stand. The light has faded somewhat and they refuse to die. The new Slayer and the once rogue one begin the fight to finish off the evil.

Later at the house Willow and Tara sleep on the couch snuggled together. As they slowly wake up Dawn runs from the room and returns with Xander and Giles. "Kennedy?" mumbles Willow.

"Be still," instructs the Watcher. "Rest-the magic was powerful."

"Damn straight," mumbles the redhead with a smile. Her eyes start to close but then she remembers. "Where's Kennedy?" She looks up at the man.

"She's with Buffy and Faith."

"Where?" asks Tara.

"The vineyard," states Xander.

"You left them?" Willow tries to sit up.

"Wills-" her life long friend starts, "we followed orders."

"How long-" asks Tara as she too sits up.

Dawn looks at her watch, "A few hours."

"They should be back-I'm going-" she tries to stand but her wobbly legs barely hold her. She leans against Xander. "Help me find them?" She looks up at him with tears in her eyes.

He helps her sit back down and looks at Giles, then back to the witches, "You rest-I'll find them."

"You can't go alone-" Tara says-her voice soft.

"He's not-" the words Giles speaks surprises him. "Get the weapons. As they prepare to leave the door opens and Spike enters with Buffy leaning heavily on him. She is covered in blood. "What happened?" he asks as he sees Faith being carried by Kennedy.

"Bloody Bringers-jumped us as we left the church."

"How bad is it?" asks Xander as he helps Kennedy with Faith.

"Lost a lot of blood-" answers the young Slayer. "But they heal fast right?" Her eyes search those of the men around her before falling on Willow and Tara.

"Let's get them upstairs." Giles leads the way as Spike and Xander carry the Slayers up the stairs.

"Are you hurt?" asks Dawn.

"It's nothing-" says Kennedy frustration filling her voice.

"I'll get the kit," she leaves the room.

Kennedy walks slowly to her witches and sits between them. "You're okay?" she asks them.

"Some sleep and we'll be fine-" assures Tara. She kisses the younger girl and wipes blood from her neck.

"Faith's," whispers Kennedy. "She pushed me out of the way. It's my fault she's hurt."

"No-" assures the redhead. "She was just being a Slayer. Protecting-you know?"

"Who protects her?" asks the younger Slayer as her tears fall.

"We all will-from now on she's home," says Dawn from the doorway.

Willow nods her agreement, "Dawnie we can clean this up-" she touches the cut at Kennedy's side. "Check on them okay?"

"Yeah-" she nods and leaves.

Willow and Tara are snuggled together in their bed. Kennedy slowly opens the door and walks into the room. She sits on the bed careful not to wake them up but Willow's eyes open. "Hey-" the redhead whispers softly.

"Hey, you're not asleep."

"How are they?"

"Buffy's good-resting-healing." She hesitates then speaks. "Faith hasn't-she's still unconscious, they're taking her to the hospital."

"Go-" she touches her Slayer's face and leans up to kiss her softly. "We're fine-"

"You sure?" Kennedy fights the tears that threaten to fall.

Tara speaks, "Listen to her-my eyes are closed and I can tell she's using her resolve face."

Kennedy smiles and reaches across Willow to put her hand on Tara's stomach. She smiles as she feels the baby kick. "Be back soon." She kisses each of them and then leaves.

The next day Kennedy is pacing in Faith's room. She walks to the side of the bed and looks down at the woman. "Open your eyes," she says and softly adds, "Come on-" she looks towards the door as it opens and sees a battered Buffy there with Willow at her side. "You both should be in bed."

"So should you-" says Buffy.

Willow walks to her and wraps her arms around her waist. "Let's get you home and into bed."

"Too wired to sleep-" assures Kennedy.

A soft voice from the bed gets their attention. "Double H's-" Faith laughs and then coughs. "Red-thought you'd have taken care of that by now."

"Been a little wiped out-" states the redhead.

"Better now?" she asks with a smile.

"Better-you?"

"Hate hospitals-take me home."

"Faith you've been unconscious for like twelve hours-" informs Kennedy.

"That all-beats the hell out of last time Junior-"

The new Slayer is confused, "What's she talking about should we get the doctor? She's not making since."

Willow smiles, "Let's go home-we'll make breakfast."

"I am kind of hungry-"

"That's the first H," smiles Buffy.

"What's the second?" asks the young Slayer innocently.

"You know that antsy feeling you got?" asks Faith. Kennedy nods.

"We're leaving now-" smiles the witch as she pulls her Slayer from the room. As they leave they hear the older Slayers laughing.

Two weeks later Willow is standing in the kitchen with Buffy. "Sure you won't stay?"

"We need to get home-there's a lot to do before the baby," the redhead smiles.

"You'll call?" Buffy fights tears.

"Promise," assures Willow. "And I'll e-mail you pictures of the baby."

"I'll miss you Wills-" states Buffy as she pulls the girl in for a hug.

In the living room much the same scene unfolds with Tara and Dawn. "You know you can come spend the summer with us."

"Buffy would never-"

"We talked," before Tara can finish Dawn begins to jump up and down and the mother-to-be laughs. "That a yes?"

"Absolutely-totally yes-" she jumps again. "I can't wait."

"It'll be fun-we can take the baby to the park and go to museums."

"I'll miss you Tara-"

"I'll miss you but it won't be long," Tara hugs the teenager.

Kennedy is in the basement with Faith who is working out on the heavy bag. Faith stops and looks up at the younger Slayer, "When's your flight?"

"A few hours," Kennedy answers.

"Need a ride?"

"I think there's a caravan-you can come with."

"Nah-"

"Faith I-"

"Don't sweat it Junior-things had been different you'd have done the same."

"Yeah-count on it." Kennedy nods.

"So what's it like in England?"

"Cool-" she says and then adds, "Wet-" Faith raises an eyebrow and Kennedy turns red. "It rains a lot more than here."

"Right-sure-" she smirks.

Kennedy moves around and starts to hit the bag. "You should come visit."

"Yeah-maybe see the kid." Faith smiles, "Might take you up on it."

Willow, Tara and Kennedy stand in the bedroom. They are quiet. "It seems weird," states Kennedy.

"What sweetie?" asks Tara.

"Leaving-" she says softly.

"Yeah," Willow agrees.

"We don't have to-" Tara concedes.

"No-but we should," Willow admits. "We should go home."

"Home sounds nice," says Kennedy as she feels Willow's arms around her waist. "What did we decide about Pooh?" She looks toward Tara.

"Please?" pouts Willow. Tara smiles and moves to join them. She kisses each of them. "It would be so cute with Eeyore and Tigger-and baby roo."

Tara looks at Kennedy who smiles, the blonde speaks. "Who could say no to that?" Willow's smile lights the room.

Full Circle

She walks to the nursery and again a smile covers her face as she touches the Winnie-the-Pooh mobile that hangs above the baby bed. Her hand then moves to her stomach and gently strokes it as she crosses the room to the rocker and sits down. She begins to hum just above a whisper.

Thirty minutes later that is where Willow finds her, napping peacefully with her hand on her stomach. The redhead smiles and then leans down to kiss her lips. As she pulls back the blonde's soft blue eyes meet hers and they smile. "Hey-"

"Hey," replies the sleepy woman.

"How am I suppose to fix you breakfast in bed if you're not in bed?"

Tara leans in and kisses her again, her hands resting on her redhead's face. "That's sweet-" Willow helps her to her feet and they move back towards their bedroom. As they do they find Kennedy headed that way as well after her workout. "Morning," smiles the young Slayer.

"Morning, ready for breakfast?" asks Willow.

As their lips meet, Kennedy smiles a devilish smile. "Other things on my mind right now," she answers.

Tara smiles, "Different kind of hungry?" she raises an eyebrow.

"You could say that," says the brunette as she leans in to kiss her. The kiss becomes quickly passionate as lips open and close together, then tongues begin to play. Tara moans softly before she pulls away.

"You okay?" asks Kennedy a little breathless as she licks her lips. Tara simply nods and leans to kiss Willow in much the same way. Kennedy moves behind the blonde and her hands begin to caress her back as the young Slayer presses kisses to her neck.

"Bedroom-now," states Willow as their kiss ends. The trio continues down the hallway to their room.

They lie in bed tangled together. Hands touching, lips nipping playfully as they incite need within each other. Tara's hands work Kennedy's tank top up and off her body with Willow's help. The Slayer moans as her witches begin to tease her breasts bringing them to hard peaks-first with fingers and then with lips. "Like that sweetie?" asks Tara.

"M-mmmm-" is all the Slayer manages to get out before she feels Willow slide down her body. Seconds later her shorts are gone as well as her panties. The redhead's fingers tease wet folds as she gasps for air. "God-goddess-" Willow smiles. Tara joins the fun as she moves down beside Willow-her fingers play now, replacing the redhead's.

Now free to explore Willow moves to the foot of the bed. She starts at Kennedy's toes and kisses up one leg-nipping and licking as she travels upward. Kennedy is lost in the passion-Tara's fingers now pump inside her driving her towards release while Willow's lips push her even closer. Kennedy moans unable to form words. As Willow's lips find her center and her tongue strokes her swollen clit the Slayer explodes. Willow however continues to drink-riding out the convulsions with her lover.

"Re-ready for break-fast now?" asks Tara with a smile as she snuggles into her Slayer's body.

"Not-just-yet," says Kennedy, her breathing still ragged. "Some unfinished business." They look down at Willow who is now making her way towards them. She kisses each of them.

Kennedy touches her redhead's face as she nestles into her shoulder. With a wicked smile she flips the girl so that she lands between them and they begin the teasing assault on her freckled body. Tara kisses her deeply-lips opening and closing, then tongues wrestle and explore. Kennedy makes a trail down her body-fingers teasing and then lips tracing the same path. Loud moans fill the room as Willow's senses begin to overload. "Please-" she pleads as her body writhes under their caresses.

"What do you want baby?" asks Kennedy teasingly. "This?" she dips her tongue ring into Willow's belly button.

"Or this," says Tara as she plays along and slips her fingers down to brush her mound.

"T-Tara-please baby-need-"

"Maybe this?" asks the Slayer as she begins to suckle at the redhead's right breast.

"M-mmm-in-inside-" before she can form the words through her foggy brain as feels Tara enter her. "Yes!" she cries as the steady rhythm begins.

Kennedy looks up at the blonde as she watches her pleasure their lover. She smiles an evil smile and moves from Willow. She now spoons herself behind the blonde and presses her naked body to her. Tara looks behind her as she feels fingers tease under her robe moving southward from her breasts. "Okay?"

"Oh-yeah-" Tara's eyes close as Kennedy's fingers slip over her swollen stomach and between her legs.

"You sure?-if you're not," the words are stopped as Tara kisses her lips.

Kennedy moans at how ready her blonde is and she slowly slips two fingers inside. Tara whispers, "So-so good," as Kennedy moves slowly within her. Tara's focus now divided causes Willow to rock against her fingers. "Sor-ry sweetie." She begins to move again, her pace inside Willow matching the pace Kennedy is using. After what seems like hours Tara teeters on the edge as does Willow. "Fast-ter-" she begs.

Kennedy kisses her neck, "Slow-" the gentle thrusting continues. "Trust me."

"K-" she leans her body into Kennedy's, her eyes closed. Her fingers however never stop. Willow is now facing her blonde, her fingers teasing bare skin as they work their way under her robe. She finds her lips and kisses her as well. "M-mmmm." She moans as they break apart. "Love you-" she manages as she feels her body start to tense- Willow's hand joins Kennedy's and the rhythm increases. "Love you both." She falls hard-her body spasming.

Willow explodes with her, "Tara-goddess-" she holds on to her lover as the blondes fingers continue to move at a faster pace driving her to the edge and over again. Kennedy holds both of them as they calm.

"Wow-" smiles the redhead as they lie tangled in the sheets.

"Ow-" exclaims Tara.

"No sweetie-wow," restates Kennedy. They both look toward the blonde as she breaths slowly in and out.

"Tara?"

She smiles at them, "That one was stronger."

"Stronger?" Kennedy is confused.

"Contraction-worse then the last one."

"Con-what?" Kennedy is nervous.

"Relax-first babies that forever." She kisses each of her lovers.

"You're having and we just-Tara-" Willow tries to stop her babble but it is useless. "You should have-are you okay?"

"Will-breath-" she looks into the redhead's eyes and smiles.

"But-" she starts but Tara's stern look stops her. She takes a deep breath and lets it out slowly.

"Better?" asks Tara and Willow nods.

Kennedy scrambles from the bed and searches the closet for the hospital bag. "Let's go-" she orders as she returns to the bed.

Tara reaches up and takes her hand pulling her back to the bed, "Kennedy-we have lots of time. It may not even be today. Let's just shower and have breakfast." She looks at each woman.

"Shower?" asks Willow.

"Breakfast?" questions Kennedy.

"Yeah-I'm hungry aren't you?"

"Not so much no-" Kennedy shakes her head.

Tara smiles and leans in to kiss first her Slayer and then her witch. "Listen-I'm a little nervous too, but we're ready right?" Neither answer. "I mean the nursery is finished and we have the outfit she's coming home in picked out and packed. The doctor's number is by the phone-" still no response from her lovers. "And she has a name-"

Willow pouts, "Which you won't tell us-"

"But when she's here you'll know-" answers Tara with a smile.

"True-" Kennedy admits.

"So we're ready-to be parents."

Kennedy snuggles into her arms her head on her shoulder. "Parents-wow-" she looks up at Tara then to Willow.

Willow moves to snuggle with them as well, "Changes things-"

"A little," admits Tara. "But that's good."

"Definitely good-" agrees Willow with a smile.

They are quiet then Kennedy speaks, "Who do you think she'll look like?"

"Maybe a little like all of us," says Tara.

"I hope she has your eyes," states the redhead. "So blue-" she kisses her softly.

"And your freckles," smiles Kennedy. Willow blushes.

Tara smiles at this and then adds, touching Kennedy's hair, "And your hair-" she pulls her into a kiss.

"I can't wait to see her-" Willow's voice is soft. "Hold her-"

"You think she'll be a Slayer?" asks Kennedy as her hand goes to Tara's stomach.

"Maybe-" says Tara. "Or she could be a witch," she looks at Willow.

"Or she could be both," says the redhead. "The prophecy."

"Forgot about that," says Kennedy. "Our little Supergirl-" she smiles.

"Just our little girl-" says Tara.

"What if the baby is a boy?" They both look at the young Slayer as if she's grown a second head. "It could happen."

"How?-no Y sweetie," stats Tara.

"Logic-we made a baby without a guy and you want to use logic now?"

Willow is near panic- "We don't have boy clothes."

Tara shoots an evil look at her Slayer- "Oh-you-see what you did!" She pulls Willow tighter. "She's just teasing Willow-"

"Will-I sorry-" Willow slaps at the Slayer and a playful wrestling match ensues.

Later Tara sits in the window and glances at her sleeping lovers. They are wrapped together-tangled in the sheets after their play fight and another round of lovemaking. She smiles and turns back to the paper she is writing on. She reads over her last words and folds the paper. She puts it inside an envelope and writes a name on the front with a smile. "Tara?" comes a soft voice from across the room.

"I'm here sweetie-" she gets up slowly, and walks to the bed. She slips the letter in the drawer and kisses the redhead as she sits next to her.

"Why did you get up?"

"I was writing the baby a letter-" Willow looks at her unsure. "So when she's older she'll know what I was thinking today as I waited for her."

"Can't you just tell her?" Tara doesn't answer she just presses a kiss to her redhead's lips. "What do you say we wake the sleepy Slayer and go for a picnic in the park?" Willow smiles and nods. "Good-you wake her and I'll get thing together."

"You stay in bed-" she pulls the blonde down onto the mattress, "And I'll pack the food."

"You're just afraid to wake her up-" Tara smiles.

"Maybe-" smiles Willow as she kisses Tara and slides out of bed. She finds a robe and leaves quietly.

Tara snuggles into the young Slayer and whispers in her ear, "I love you-" she kisses her neck and Kennedy's eyes slowly open. "Hey you-time to get up."

"Keep doing that-" she closes her eyes as Tara kisses her again, "And I'll never want to leave this bed." She smiles and raises an eyebrow.

"Time for lunch-"

"Like breakfast?" she looks at Tara and bites her own bottom lip.

"No-real food. A picnic in the park so up and to the shower."

"Shower with me?"

"No-not this time."

"Then I'm not getting up," pouts Kennedy. Tara smiles and stands as she does she pulls the covers off the naked girl. "Hey-it's cold."

"Not in the shower now get a move on Slayer." Tara leaves the room.

The three women spend the afternoon in the park. They feed the ducks, play on the swings and talk quietly as they relax together on a blanket by a small stream. Tara is leaning against Willow's chest-the redhead's arms surround her. Kennedy's head is on the blonde's lap. "Still having contractions?" asks the young Slayer?

"Yeah-" says Tara softly.

"Think we should call the doctor?"

"Not yet-no pattern-and they're still all spaced out."

"What do you want to do?" questions Kennedy as she turns to her back and looks up at Tara.

"This is nice," answers the expectant mother.

"More snuggle time it is then," states Willow who pulls her blonde closer still.

At the house hours later Willow and Kennedy seem nervous though Tara is remarkably relaxed. Her contractions are more regular but the intensity hasn't changed.

Kennedy and Willow are sitting in each other's arms watching Tara as she reads a magazine. Night has fallen and still Tara insists that it's not time to call the doctor. "Should we call now sweetie?" asks the redhead as she looks from Kennedy to Tara.

Tara smiles at her redhead and then looks at the worried young Slayer as well, "If we call the doctor and she tells you it's not time will you let it go?" They nod in unison and the blonde can't help but smile. "Hand me the phone." In a flash they are at her side and Kennedy hands her the receiver.

After the call a pouting and nervous Willow sits on the couch with Tara. The blonde rests her head on Willow's lap and is nearly asleep as the redhead strokes her hair. "Wanna go upstairs?"

"I'm good here-you?"

"Good-" they are quiet, "Tara-" she lets her words drop.

"What is it sweetie?"

"I love you-"

The blonde smiles, "I love-" she takes a deep breath as a contraction starts. She breathes through it and then takes a cleansing breath at the end.

"Stronger?"

"A little-" she composes herself and starts again. "I love you to Willow-always."

Kennedy walks in with a tray of sandwiches and Tara smiles, "I'm not that hungry-"

Kennedy sits beside her, "I didn't know what you wanted so I fixed one of everything." She smiles and blushes a little.

"That's nice," Tara kisses her softly as she sits up and begins to eat.

Late that night the three of them are in bed. Amazingly the young Slayer and redheaded witch are sleeping soundly. Tara on the other hand is having an intense contraction. The third in the last thirty minutes. She glances at the clock as she takes a cleansing breath. She smiles at the women beside her and then kiss each. "Willow-Kennedy-wake up." They continue to sleep. She rolls her eyes at the fact that they can sleep so soundly after worrying all day. "Willow-" she tries again louder. "Kennedy-it's time."

"H-hmmm-" says the younger woman as she tries to opens her eyes. "Tara?"

"The baby-" Kennedy's eyes meet hers. "It's time."

"Now?" she panics as she sits up. "Now?"

"Don't panic-we still got lots of time but we should leave."

Willow is now awake and trying to focus. "What time is it?" she mumbles as she looks at the women.

"Time for the baby-" informs Kennedy. "Go-we need to go." Willow gets up and so does Kennedy. As Tara starts to she has another contraction. She starts her breathing exercise and smiles as she watches her lovers run around the room unnerved.

At the hospital Tara has been examined and admitted. She has dilated to three. Willow and Kennedy nervously try to get things for her and finally with a smile she says, "Hey-got ice and water and I'm all comfy," Willow gives her a questioning look, "Well okay until the contraction comes. Now I just need the two of you to sit here with me."

"Just sit?" asks Kennedy.

"Yeah-hold my hand." Tara smiles at the woman.

"I can do that," Kennedy smiles back as she sits down beside her.

"I know you can." She leans in and kisses her softly. Willow sits on the other side of the blonde and takes her hand as well. "See-" Tara smiles at her redhead, "It's okay."

"Okay-" is Willow's tentative reply, worry still evident in her voice. Tara kisses her too.

Six hours later there hasn't been much progress. Tara is dilated to only four. Willow wipes her girl's face with a wet cloth while Kennedy gets her a cup of ice. They each kiss her lips softly. Willow speaks, "Baby I think you should have the epidural."

"I can do this-" Tara fights tears, tired and frustrated.

"Okay-" Kennedy assures with a smile and a kiss to her forehead. "We know you can-we just-we hate seeing you hurt." At those words Tara begins to breath quicker as she feels another contraction start. "Deep breath in and let it out-" Tara follows instructions.

"Now the breathing exercise," Willow begins and Tara follows. "That's good-" encourages the redhead.

Four hours later the nurse is hooking Tara up to a monitor. It will allow the staff to keep track of both her heart rate and the baby's. Willow and Kennedy stand across the room with the doctor. "She's making progress it's just extremely slow. She's half way-"

"It's been almost sixteen hours-" Willow offers. "She's so tired."

"That's not an unreasonable amount of time for a first baby."

"Really?" asks Kennedy surprised.

The doctor smiles, "Let's keep calm and be encouraging. I'll let you know if you need to worry."

"Deal-" says the youngest mother-to-be.

"Okay," agrees Willow. The doctor leaves and they return to Tara each again sitting on the bed beside her. They see her tears. "No-don't cry-" she presses a kiss to her lips. "It's all normal the doctor said."

"I'm so tired-" she speaks softly trying to stop the tears.

"Close your eyes baby," says Kennedy. Her hand strokes the blonde's face. "Rest."

Two hours later Tara is sitting up in a rocker. Willow kneeling in front of her is talking softly, "That's it-cleansing breath-" Tara blows out. "Good-" Willow smiles and kisses her softly on the lips. Kennedy joins them and begins to feed the blonde ice chips.

"Mmmmm-" mumbles the mother-to-be.

"Like that Tar?"

"Feels good-cool-" she answers. Kennedy takes a piece of ice and begins to run it along Tara's neck and across her lips. This time she moans. Willow smiles as she to gets a piece of ice and trails a path on Tara's arms.

After another two hours Tara stands in Kennedy's arms breathing through a contraction. The nurse had suggested a walk to maybe speed things along. They are standing a few feet from the room. "Almost over-breath-" she breathes with the blonde. "Now cleansing breath-" Tara does as she's told. "Okay?"

"That one was stronger," her head rests on Kennedy's shoulder. "Oh-" she cries.

"Tar-?"

"Another one-" she begins her breathing-but can't seem to get on top of it. "Ow-I can't-"

"Come on-he-he-he-" she encourages and Tara calms to follow suit. "That's it-" as the contraction ends. Kennedy kisses her temple. "Let's get you back to bed."

"Give me just a second-" she tries to slow her breathing.

Back in the room an hour later the doctor is again examining the blonde. "Ready to push?" She smiles.

"Really?" asks Willow and the doctor nods.

"Definitely ready," says Tara.

"Next contraction then-" she states.

Thirty minutes later Tara is pushing with the contraction. Willow and Kennedy are counting together. "Five-six-seven-eight-nine-ten."

"Again," instructs the doctor and again Tara pushes.

"Will-" Kennedy speaks softly as she sees the baby's head start to crown.

"Goddess-" whispers the redhead.

"What's wrong?" asks the blonde.

"Nothing wrong-" assures Kennedy.

"We can see her head-push baby," Willow says with tears in her eyes.

The contraction ends and Tara lies back down. Willow wipes her forehead with a wet cloth and Kennedy kisses her cheek. "It was amazing-" says the young woman.

"Need to push," says Tara as her breathing quickens with the contraction. She pushes again and the baby's head finally emerges.

"Good-now just pant-don't push-" instructs the doctor as she turns the baby's head and cleans out her mouth. "Okay-one more and she's here." Tara pushes and the baby arrives crying loudly.

As the doctor places her on Tara's stomach three sets of hands reach to touch her. "She okay?" asks Tara.

The doctor smiles, "Sounds good."

"She's beautiful," whispers Willow, crying as she kisses Tara's cheek. Her fingers trace a small arm.

"She has freckles," smiles Kennedy as she touches the baby's face. The young mom leans up and kisses Tara.

"Who's going to cut the cord?" asks the doctor.

"Ah-Kennedy?" Willow speaks.

"Both of you," says Tara her voice soft and tired. Her eyes meet Willow's and then Kennedy's before resting on her daughter.

Together the Slayer and the witch cut the cord. The nurse smiles and looks at Tara. "I need to borrow her for just a few minutes."

Tara kisses her daughter's head, "Bye beautiful." Tara watches as the nurse moves across the room to weigh and measure the baby. She smiles when she feels lips touch her cheeks and she looks at her lovers. "Go with her." Willow starts to protest but nods instead. She and Kennedy walk to the baby hand-in-hand. A pained look crosses Tara's face.

Less then ten minutes later the baby is tucked in Tara's arms nursing contentedly. Willow and Kennedy watch still in awe of the whole day. Finally the redhead speaks softly, "So what's her name?"

Tara smiles up at them as the baby continues to nurse, "Kenzie Rose-"

"I like it," smiles Kennedy. She kisses the baby on the head but worry covers her face when she hears Tara gasp, "Tara?"

The blonde tries to reposition herself and the pain worsens. "Baby?" Willow moves closer.

Tara removes the baby from her breast and hands her to Willow. "Kennedy get the doctor." The young Slayer sprints from the room and within seconds the new mothers are rushed into the hallway with the baby as the doctors treat Tara. The doors open and Tara is wheeled past them through doors marked surgery.

Willow holds the baby as she stands outside the door and Kennedy holds her-her arms wrapped around her waist. "She'll be okay." Kennedy tries to assure her redhead though she herself is unconvinced.

Later Kennedy holds the baby as the doctor approaches them. The Slayer in Kennedy senses the blood on her gown as Willow starts to cry. "No-" She shakes her head and leans into the younger woman.

"We couldn't stop the bleeding-" his words fade and Tara's replace them.

Kenzie Rose-I'm your mother and I love you but I must leave. It's meant to be- behind the words the scenes change-the hospital, the cemetery-Kennedy holding the baby in one arm and Willow in the other as tears fall. I'll always watch over you- Kennedy is in the nursery changing the baby's diaper. Always be there to listen. Sometimes things happen and we don't understand but be strong. In the end there's a purpose and it's greater than we know. Willow sits in the rocking chair with Kenzie-or Little Mac as Faith calls her. The redhead is feeding the child and she smiles as she looks into the soft blue eyes staring back at her.

A month later Willow and Kennedy lie in bed. The baby is snuggled in her bassinet at the side of their bed. Kennedy presses a kiss to Willow's lips. "What going on up there?" She touches the witch's forehead.

"Just thinking?"

"About Tara?"

"I just miss her so much." Willow's tears start to fall.

"I do too-" she is silent. She chooses her words carefully needing the redhead but not wanting to push too hard. "I miss you too."

"I'm right here-"

"Yeah-but we haven't since-I need you Willow," tears fill the younger woman's eyes. "Some times I feel like without her there's no us."

"No-no that's not true-I love you." She presses a kiss to Kennedy's lips. "I love you."

"Show me-" her eyes meet Willow's. Hesitantly Willow leans forward and kisses her lips. "I love you."

"Love you-" she mumbles around another kiss. Hands begin to caress and soon clothes disappear. As her lips move to the tanned skin of the brunette's neck she smiles at the soft moan it causes. Her hands begin to explore the firm planes of her body. Alabaster fingers against dark skin such a contrast she thinks as her mind races with thoughts as always.

Always-always, her thoughts drift-lips on her shoulder, gentle kisses as her hands touch soft skin, rounded curves and she smiles. She arches against the lips as they move lower and she can't stop the moan that escapes-loud, primal as she feels them encircle her right breast.

As the lips leave the cold steel of the tongue ring caress her skin and she shivers. It trails a path between her breasts to her belly button and she is lost as she pulls the tanned body closer. Her fingers trace the strong muscles of her back as she holds on so close to falling.

Above her blonde hair cascades down soft shoulders as she caresses the redhead. Her hand drops lower still teasing the inside of her thigh- "Please-" the witch moans. Not wanting things to end just yet she does the same to the other side coming so close but never touching her where she needs, wants her to. "Baby-"

Strong fingers caress freckled skin and then stop-the redhead looks up into brown eyes, the love there so strong, their lips meet in an intense kiss as she entangles her fingers in the brunette locks and the game is over. The steel ring strokes her tongue causing her to moan uncontrollably. While she is lost in the sensation the brunette explores her folds with her fingers. As she enters her the redhead cries out and begins to move with her.

The soft fingers set a slow pace driving her closer. She curls her fingers slightly and she feels her tense around them. "So close-" whispers the blonde as she continues the movement leaning down for a kiss. Lips open and close to the rhythm of her fingers.

As the brunette picks up the pace she tries to regulate her breathing- "Look at me-" the redhead forces her eyes open and again they meet love filled brown. "I love you."

"A-always b-baby-" is her breathy reply as she begins to tremble. Her body becomes racked with spasms she can't begin to control the fingers move faster continuing to drive her farther. "O-oh-o- goddess-" She explodes and cries out- "Kennedy!"

Her eyes meet Kennedy's and they smile. "Wow-" she pants still unable to put together words. "Amazing-" she tries again but still isn't able to complete her thought. "You feel it?"

"Pretty sure-" Willow kisses her shoulder with a smile.

"No-not that-" Kennedy tries to explain. "She was there."

"Yeah-" she becomes sullen. "I'm sorry I think it was my fault."

"No-I think it's where she should be. She's a part of us Willow-a part Kenzie. I don't want to lose that."

"We won't-it's for always."

Kennedy kisses her softly, "Always."

The End

Go Back To Part 5(Chapters 21-25)

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