LIFE Happens

See Part 1 for Ratings and Disclaimers

Chapter 21

"The books-the texts-maybe they needed them for research," says the witch.

Dawn rolls her eyes out of view as Faith hides a smirk, "Buffy will know what to do-she's in the basement. Something about helping Xander."

"Right-" says Willow. "We should tell her and Giles." The four of them start down the hallway.

Kennedy is fuming, "They got all the baby stuff Will-"

Willow touches her shoulder and then takes her hand, "It's okay-we can get more."

"But that was the last-" she stops and looks at her redhead, tears threatening to fall.

Willow pulls her into a hug and then steps back to look into her eyes, "It's just stuff-" she touches her stomach. "All that matters is okay."

"Right-" agrees Kennedy. "You're right-" she composes herself with a deep breath and they start walking again.

Faith and Dawn who are now a little ahead of them look at each other, the younger girl whispers. "Maybe this wasn't such a good idea."

"Nah-" Faith looks at the teen as they walk. "They're gonna love it."

"Before or after they kick our asses?" Dawn seems nervous and Faith just smiles as she leans over and kisses her lips.

Kennedy quips, "Hey-we've just been robbed, lost everything-you think you could stop with the making out?"

Faith smiles and looks at her fellow Slayer, "Sure thing." She rolls her eyes, only Dawn can see and they both smile.

In the basement, Buffy and Xander are arranging the last of Willow and Kennedy's furniture. Buffy puts her arms around Xander's waist and smiles up at him. He looks down into her eyes. She kisses him chastely, "You Xander Harris are a great guy." She looks around at the living room they are standing in. "This is amazing."

"So you think they'll like it?"

"They'll love it, and if they don't I'll move in." She leans in and kisses him again this time not so chastely.

Faith and Dawn jog down the stairs, "Might wanna stop that," they break apart and Buffy glares at the Slayer. "K's a little pissed." Faith looks at the finished room for the first time. "You know if they-" she is cut off.

"Buffy," says Willow from the top of the stairs. "You down there?"

Buffy smiles, one arm still around Xander, "Yeah Wills-come on down."

Willow and Kennedy enter the room and recognize their stuff on sight. The redhead looks at her friends unsure but then starts to smile. "What are you guys up to-you didn't-" she looks to Xander.

"We thought you could use a little more space," says the man.

Kennedy has let go of Willow's hand and moved to a doorway. Buffy smiles at her friend, "Better check it out with her." She looks to Willow and then the younger Slayer.

"Yeah," she nods and starts with Kennedy. "Don't leave-any of you."

The group smiles at her and watches her catch up with her lover. "So-wanna check out a movie?" Asks Faith as she plops down on the nearest sofa and picks up the remote. Buffy looks at her unsure but then smiles at the idea.

"Is there food?" Asks Dawn. Xander nods and moves toward the kitchen.

In the back of the apartment is the bedroom at that's where we find Willow and Kennedy. Willow joins hands again with her girl as they walk through an adjoining door and into the new nursery. They both stare amazed at the room. "Willow-" Kennedy smiles at her girlfriend."

"Wow-is all I can make work." She smiles as she moves forward to touch the canopy of the baby's bed. The room is done in shades of soft pink and lavender,- "Amazing."

Kennedy nods as she moves to the bed as well, she touches the mobile hanging above it. "They did all this for us-for her." She lets tears fall.

"Yeah," says Willow as her tears fall as well. She hugs her Slayer and kisses her lips. "Family is a pretty cool thing huh?"

"Definitely cool." She kisses her again. She wipes at her tears as she pulls back. "Wonder where this goes?" She looks toward another door.

"One way to find out," she takes her hand again and they start that way. They go through the door and into the hallway. A few steps away they find another door. Willow opens it and they step inside to find a workout room. Willow smiles and Kennedy looks surprised. "Nice," says the Wicca.

"Way more then nice Will-this rocks. My own workout room." A smile covers her face, then a smirk.

"What?" Asks the redhead as Kennedy pulls her close.

She smiles as she kisses her lips and then her neck- "Just thinking counting the bedroom-I have two workout rooms." She nuzzles Willow's neck and gets a giggle. She pulls back and kisses her softly. The kiss is unrushed and gentle-Kennedy's hands cup Willow's cheeks and the redhead's settle on her girl's rounded stomach. The younger woman pulls back and leans her forehead against her lover's. "We should thank them."

"Yeah-we should." She agrees.

"When they're gone-can we tryout the new workout room?"

Willow smiles, "Maybe-I mean-I could probably be talked into it."

Kennedy smiles, "Let's get rid of them," she says semi-teasingly.

"After thanking them of course," says Willow as she kisses Kennedy's lips. What she intended to be quick changes mid kiss as her Slayer's hands find her way into her auburn locks. Mouths open and tongues play-teasing, caressing causing soft moans from both. Finally needing air they pull away. Willow watches as Kennedy looks toward the bench against wall, in the corner of the room. A slight smiles tugs at the edges of her lips. "You sure?"

"That I wanna make love to you in every room of our new home?" Kennedy looks in deep thought then grins, "Duh." The brunette's grin softens into a smile, then becomes serious. "Come'ere." She leads her toward the bench.

In the living room of the just completed apartment, the others are watching a movie-a cartoon of course-cause well Faith has the remote. As the animated creatures appear on screen the once rogue Slayer laughs. Dawn is snuggled in her arms and she smiles, then nods as her Slayer turns and whispers in her ear. Faith kisses her softly and holds her a little tighter as she watches the movie again. Dawn's fingers gently stroke her arm.

On the opposite couch Buffy and Xander cuddle as well. The carpenter watches the woman in his arms and not the movie. His fingers play in her hair as he kisses the back of her head. "Dinner tonight?" He asks softly.

She turns to look at him, "I've gotta patrol, but before-yeah."

"I'll make reservations," he says.

She is surprised by the words. Reservations-she thinks wow-okay, this means something right? Gotta talk to Willow. She'll know.

About that time the redhead and her Slayer walk in hand-in-hand. They smile when they see their friends making themselves at home. There are bowls of chips and pop cans setting around. "Comfy?" Asks the Wicca.

"Very," says Buffy with a smile as she looks up at them.

"But all the soda is caffeine-free," informs Faith. "Some of us need our caffeine."

Xander smiles and looks at the redhead, "And some of us can do without."

She mock glares at him. "Xander Harris!" Her tone is warning-then soft. "We love the place-thank you."

"All of you," adds Kennedy.

"No sweat," says Faith, "I was just the muscle. It was B's idea."

Dawn adds, "And Xander did the building."

Buffy stands, "And we should go-let you get all settled in." Xander stands too.

Faith looks at them unhappy, "But the movie's not over."

Dawn stands and Faith looks at her lover begrudgingly. Kennedy smiles, "Stay and watch-it's okay."

Dawn takes Faith's hand and pulls her from the couch, "If you don't mind to let us borrow it-" she smiles at Faith, "we'll finish it in my room."

Kennedy smiles, "No problem."

Faith kisses her girl softly and whispers in her ear, "Like the way you think."

"Thought you might," she answers back with a wink. She movies to the dvd player and ejects the disk returning it to its case.

Across the room Buffy and Xander are receiving hugs from Willow and then Kennedy. "Glad you like it," says the blonde Slayer.

"The Emilee's room-it's amazing." Kennedy's hand moves to her stomach.

"We wanted it to be special-Dawn and I picked out the colors."

Dawn and Faith join them, "And Faith painted it."

"Thought all the pink was gonna kill me," she teases earning a smack from her girl and the redhead. "Hey-easy, just playing."

After a few more hugs the gang makes its way up the stairs leaving Willow and Kennedy alone. The Wicca smiles, "So this room next-or the kitchen?" She raises an eyebrow.

"Well, we're already here," she takes Willow's hand and leads her to the couch. Willow sits down first and Kennedy moves to straddle her lap. She puts her arms around her redhead's neck and adjusts herself slightly.

"Okay?" Asks her Wicca as their eyes meet and she watches her girl try to get comfortable.

"Yeah-" she looks down at her growing stomach and smiles as Willow's hand moves to rest there. "Not even half way yet and well-"

The redhead kisses her lips and then her forehead. "We'll figure it all out-what works best-gives you the most-" she blushes, "you know-" she forces the blush away, "Pleasure." She kisses Kennedy's neck and begins to lick there gently. She presses slow teasing strokes up her girl's neck to the base of her ear. "How's that?" She asks, her breathing getting ragged.

"Tha-that works," Kennedy answers. Her eyes close and she moans slightly as Willow continues.

"Good," she breathes in her ear-her voice a whisper. She runs her tongue along the outside rim and then sucks it between her lips.

The Slayer on her lap just lets herself go as she tangles her fingers in Willow's soft red locks. "I love-love you."

"I love you too," answers the redhead as she kisses across to the other side and begins to treat it the same. Kennedy's head falls back giving her all the room she needs.

Hours later they lie cuddled together in their bed. Kennedy sleeps against Willow's side, her head resting on her chest. The redhead watches her girl and brushes her fingers against the soft skin of her back. She smiles as she thinks of the day-all the days since she let the Slayer into her life. Her thoughts turn to Emilee and her smile brightens. The excitement of being a mother is beginning to register, as is the nervousness. She is pulled from her thoughts as she feels lips kissing her shoulder, "You're supposed to be asleep-we had a deal, remember?"

"Mmmm-I remember, and I did sleep."

"Not very long," Willow glances at the clock and it is almost 7. She realizes it was longer then she thought. "Ready for some dinner?"

"After what we did on the counter?" Kennedy raises up on an elbow her eyes meeting Willow's and seeing the blush.

Willow playfully smacks her arm, "Shut up." Kennedy raises up farther and kisses her lips. "Last chance-do you want dinner?"

"Yes please," says the Slayer, hunger actually the first thing on her mind.

"Pasta okay-with a salad and a nice glass of milk?"

"Yep-" she answers as she lays her head back on Willow's shoulder.

"Still sleepy-rest." She smiles as she rubs her back. "I'll wake you when it's ready."

"K-" Her eyes close. Willow starts to move but Kennedy holds on to her.

"Gotta get up to cook."

Kennedy whines, "Don't want you to leave."

"Won't be gone long," she kisses the top of her head. Kennedy relents and lets her go. "Sleep and before you know it I'll be cuddling you again. Kennedy snuggles into Willow's pillow, she breathes in her girl's scent and smiles. The redhead slips from the bed, but before leaving she presses a kiss to her girl's cheek and then her shoulder.

In a bar across town a man enters-others at his side. He sits at a table. Those with him stand, eyes searching the crowd looking for trouble.

A few minutes later another man enters, his black cape drawing the attention of the patrons who exchange glances and laugh. The man and those with him stop. He levels a glare at them and they laugh again. A man with a pool cue quips, "It's a bit early for Halloween-and you-well you're a little old to be dressing up don't you think?"

One of his protectors steps forward-as he grabs the man by the throat you see for the first time the tattoo of a large dragon that covers his neck-and finishes at his hand. Just as he is about to snap the man with the cue in half for his insults the first man who entered appears at his side. "I wouldn't do that."

The man in the cape turns his attention to him. "He insulted me."

"Yes-and he will be punished."

With a nod from the man in the cape, the man with the cue is lowered to the ground. He steps away and then turns back swinging the cue. It splinters as it hits the bodyguard. As a piece of wood hits those close by, two turn to dust. However, the piece now implanted in the chest of the dragon-tattooed man leaves him unharmed.

"I am Dracul-and you?" Says the man in the cape.

"And I am someone who wishes to help in your endeavor. My friends call me Quentin."

Chapter 22

Dracul senses the disbelief in the older man and his tone changes, "You wished to speak with me-if you do not believe then why are you wasting my time?- There are others who want and need my assistance." Dracul stands as do the new and improved Day Walkers who travel with him.

"Please-I am indeed truly sorry if I have offended you. Please listen to my proposal." The man sits down and when he does the Day Walkers stay standing. "I wish to have some assistance in a small matter."

Days pass like a week if you're the growing baby inside the young Slayer. Now over half way to the birth Kennedy is starting to get nervous again. She stands in Emilee's nursery with her hand on her stomach. She quietly calls her redhead's name, "Willow-" she looks to the door, her eyes big as she smiles.

Willow walks in and sees the expression on her Slayer's face, "She kicked?" Kennedy nods as tears try to form. The redhead walks to her and her girl reaches for her hand. She places it under hers and they wait. Willow slowly starts to smile as she feels the slight movement. She looks into Kennedy's eyes and leans forward, the kiss is soft and slow-filled with love. As she pulls back she whispers, "I love you so much-" the redhead cries a little as well as she presses another kiss to her lovers lips but just holds it there. Her hand feels another slight kick. She kneels in front of her girls-and rests her cheek against Kennedy's stomach. "This is amazing."

Kennedy's fingers play in Willow's red locks, "Yeah," she replies softly.

The next day the Scoobies meet in the library. Giles has found research to back the earlier texts of the Legend of Vlad. "It appears there are documented cases in which he was able to transform entire vampire populations into Day Walkers."

"Why haven't we heard of them then?" Asks the oldest Slayer.

Giles moves across the room carrying two texts and sits down at the table with her and the others. "The council feared it would some how change the Slayer's role in things so they kept it secret."

"Right-" Faith rolls her eyes. "Translated that means they wanted to stick it to us at some point."

"Absolutely," agrees Buffy.

Kennedy looks at Willow, "Think you can find this guy?" She hands her the laptop.

"What do we do with him when she does?" Asks Xander. "He's a man," he adds as the others look at him unsure.

"Xander's got a point," says Dawn.

"We'll worry about that when we find him." Buffy's eyes fall on the redhead.

"Okay-let's see what we can find," she fires up the laptop and rubs Kennedy's tummy. "For luck," she winks and smiles. Her Slayer smiles to as the redhead's hand lingers and Emilee kicks ever so slightly. Willow looks into her Slayer's eyes and leans in to kiss her chastely.

Kennedy blushes just a little as she sees the others smiling, "You've seen us kiss before."

"Yeah," admits Faith. "But that was-" she stops unsure of how to word what she feels.

Dawn finishes for her, "That was more-there was more love," she looks confused. "How's that possible?"

Willow touches her girl's face as she moves her hand from the rounded tummy, "Didn't think there could be, but there is."

It is the blonde in the crowd who puts it together, "She kicked-" she looks from Kennedy to Willow, "You felt her move?"

Willow nods and Kennedy takes her hand. "Yeah."

Giles clears his throat and begins to clean his glasses as he then smiles at the couple. "Have you spoken with Althennea?"

"She called and gave us a list of names."

"Names?" Asks Dawn.

"Midwives," supplies Willow. "Of the witchy variety."

"That we can actually trust," says Kennedy.

"No doctor?" Asks Xander a little nervous. Willow and Kennedy both shake their heads.

"Not a bad idea, considering the last one was evil," Faith adds.

"Isn't that-won't you have to have a homebirth?" Asks Dawn.

"No," supplies Willow.

"But we might," says Kennedy as they all look at her. "Maybe-still in the discussion stage." She adds as she notices Willow looking at her a little nervously.

Giles notices as well and decides a change in topic is in order, "There's work to be done." All eyes fall on him and they understand his meaning.

Dawn picks up one of the books in front of the man and he picks up the other. Willow smiles at Kennedy, 'This conversation is so not over.'

'I know-but at least tell me you'll think about it?'

'I'll research it.'

'Fair enough,' says the Slayer as she watches Willow begin the search for the man who can change vampires to super vampires.

That night Dracul and Travers stand inside a large warehouse. Also there are a group of vampires. Their leader looks at the strangers with skepticism. "We're just suppose to take your word for it?"

"Of course not, you do not know us," says Travers.

"We know you-you led the Slayer's Council."

Travers is surprised at his words. Dracul glares at him, "Again you waste my time. You destroy our kind."

"Before, that was true-now, now it has changed."

"Why's that?" Asks the vamp who is now in game face along with the rest there.

Without words or forewarning the once council leader morphs into game face as well, "Things happen that can change one's perspective, shall we say." Those present smile their understanding. "Now, I need your help."

At the house the research group has left, now only Willow works at her laptop. She types, referencing and cross-referencing. She looks up and rolls her neck, then rubs her eyes before closing them for an instant. She smiles as she feels hands massaging her shoulders. She opens her eyes and turns her head to see Kennedy there. "Hey-"

"Do you know what time it is?" Asks her Slayer.

"Guessing late," she smiles.

"Yep, and I'm here to take you home. Got the whole evening planned."

Willow smiles, "You do huh?"

"Yep," she says again then leans down to kiss her gently. "Some of that-" she kisses her neck. "And that." Willow's eyes close. "And if you play your cards right a nice massage."

Willow stands and hugs her, "That would be great," she kisses her.

"I hear a but in there." Kennedy looks at her with a raised eyebrow.

"I'm close and we really need some info-they could be changing vamps right now."

She begins to pulls the girl from the room, "Kennedy-" Kennedy just smiles. "At least let me get my laptop." The mother-to-be let's her girl go. The redhead grabs her laptop and they leave the room.

Later in their new home the witch and the Slayer are just finishing dinner. Willow smiles as Kennedy stands and clears the table. As she walks back by she takes her hand stopping her movement. "Leave the rest, you've done enough." She stands and kisses her softly. "I'll get it later."

"I'm not helpless you know-" she starts to protest but Willow interrupts.

"I know-that's why I'm collecting on my massage." She leads the girl back toward their bedroom.

Kennedy smiles and raises an eyebrow, "Could have a bubble bath first."

"Mmmm-like the sound of that." They detour to the bathroom instead.

Later they both enter the bedroom dressed in towels. Kennedy's barely covering her extended tummy. She moves to the closet and gets her robe. As she starts to slip into it Willow's hands slide across her body. She pulls her close and kisses her Slayer's neck. Kennedy moans softly as Willow nibbles and licks up to her ear. "Don't need that robe," she whispers.

"We do if you want that massage," she smirks at her as she pulls away to face her.

Willow pouts, "Can't I have my massage with you all naked?"

Kennedy grins at her girlfriend, "It would be a little distracting don't you think-and not so much relaxing?" The redhead pouts even more. "What?" Asks the Slayer already knowing the answer.

"I hate it when you're right."

Kennedy pulls her pouty lip between hers and sucks for a brief second and lets it go as she hears her redhead moan. "I know," she pulls away and leads the hacker to the bed. As soon as they are on the bed, the young Slayer removes the redhead's towel. She smiles at her lover-as she moves to straddle her. She keeps her weight on her knees as her hands begin to rub the tense shoulders.

Willow moans again as her girl's strong hands begin to rub away the kinks. "Feels good," she says softly as her eyes begin to close. "But just so you know, when you finish I'm researching some more."

Kennedy smiles as she sees her eyes close, "I know." She continues to knead the muscles under her hands-trying to keep her mind on her mission and not the want coursing through her.

Later Willow sleeps soundly, her naked body now covered by a sheet. Kennedy now in her pajamas crawls in next to her. She curls around her snuggling close as she lays her head on her shoulder and drapes her arm across her back. "Sleep," she whispers as she too closes her eyes.

A few nights later Travers and Dracul are in the same warehouse. They speak to the leaders of all the vampire gangs in Cleveland. Some listen and some argue, "Why should we side with you," states one. "If you fail the wrath of the Slayers will never end."

"But," smiles Travers, "if we succeed the Slayers will be no more."

They demons talk among themselves and finally the man speaks again, "This fails you will be the first to die." He levels his gaze on Dracul.

The man's expression remains unchanged, "I will not fail. The power will be given, the curse lifted-you will be nearly invincible."

The man nods, "How will we find the child?"

Travers smiles, "Patience my friend," he states.

The vampire replies, "You are not my friend."

A few days later Willow is talking to Dawn about the research. Kennedy and Faith are in the library as well but both are bored. "I just keep hitting a wall," explains Willow.

Out of nowhere Faith who appeared to be in another world speaks. "Maybe you can do one of those tree things."

Kennedy looks at the older Slayer unsure and repeats, "Tree? We don't need to make stakes we need to find him." She gives Faith a puzzled look.

Willow begins to feverishly type and Dawn squeals before she runs to hug her girl. She kisses her and smiles, "See school is good."

Faith rolls her eyes and shakes her head as she growls playfully. "Secret remember?"

Kennedy smiles, "You're going to school?"

"Shut up," she nods, "Two nights a week. Not a word."

"Tree thing," she repeats, "What the hell are you talking about?"

"A geneology chart," says Dawn as she returns to Willow. Kennedy and Faith stand around her too as she still types and the screen begins to fill with words.

"I got him-" she smiles. "Well, Faith did-but you know what I mean." He's Vlad Dracul-not big with the name variety. His picture fills the screen. "Now lets see where you are." She types again and they all stare at each other.

"Shit-" she looks at Kennedy and then Willow. "I'll get Buffy." She leaves the room.

Willow looks back at her girl and sees Kennedy's hand on her stomach. Giles comes into the room. "I have information on the ritual," he states.

"And we found him-he's here," Kennedy says.

"Good lord, gather the others."

Willow stands beside her girl, "Faith went to get them."

Soon the room is filled with Slayers and scoobies. Vi and Rona as well as some of the other senior young Slayers are present as well. Giles speaks. "The ritual is in two parts. It must be done on the night of the full moon. The man takes on the from of the demon."

"How?" Asks Faith.

"He calls on its name, offers it a sacrifice and it raises in him," Giles answers.

"That's the first part of the ritual what's the second?" Asks Willow starting to worry as his words are processed.

"The man and the demon recite the words and the power is bestowed upon those present within the circle."

Willow sits down slowly, her face pale. Kennedy looks at her unsure but moves beside her. She touches her cheek, "Will sweetie, we'll be okay."

She shakes her head, "You have to go."

"Go-Willow you're not making since."

"Kennedy if he can do this the number of vampires he can change-its massive and they want her." Her eyes fall on her Slayer's stomach and then move back to her eyes. "Please baby-you have to go somewhere-not here."

"I'm not gonna run. I'm a Slayer." Willow's tears fall harder, though she knew her words would be futile.

Buffy speaks, "We got till the full moon so that's what-a week?"

"Ah-" Dawn picks up a chart. "10 days."

Faith forces a soft laugh as she looks over her girls shoulder. The others look at her unsure, "Halloween-that's just classic."

At her words Kennedy's knees buckle slightly and grabs the table. Xander grabs her arm. "You okay?" He asks.

"Yeah-fine," she pulls away and starts for the door. Willow follows her from the room.

Buffy looks at those around her, "We gotta find this guy before he can become the demon or whatever."

"How are we to do that?" Asks Vi.

"Hit the demon bars," says Xander.

"We don't even know what he looks like," says Rona.

Dawn goes to the computer and hits a button the pictures of the man begins to print. As they finish she moves around the room handing them out. Buffy smiles at her sister and speaks, "We'll go out in pairs. Watch your backs-this is a report and follow if spotted. Do not engage," she looks at Faith.

Faith smiles, "Sounded a little like G.I. Joe there Slayer." They all laugh even the blonde.

"Maybe-" she admits. "Just watch yourself." She mock glares.

The Slayers start to leave the room, but Faith kisses Dawn first. "Don't wait up-it's gonna be a long night."

Dawn nods and kisses her again, "Be careful."

"Always D-" she winks as she leaves the room behind Buffy and Xander.

She looks to Giles as she hears him speak, "That leaves the problem of finding out about the sacrifice to us it would appear."

"Where do we start?" She asks as she moves toward the demon texts.

He appears in thought and then speaks, "Dracul--means dragon let's start there." She nods and begins to pull books from the shelf.

Kennedy sits in the rocker in the nursery. Willow kneels in front of her, her cheek pressed to her Slayer's tummy. The baby's soft kick soothing her. Kennedy's fingers play in her hair as her other hand rests on her stomach. She too feels Emilee move, "I won't let anything happen to her I promise Willow-but I can't run."

"I know-" she concedes softly. "We'll keep her safe."

"Yeah," she nods as more tears slip down her cheeks.

Later that night the Slayer lies in her bed. The redhead is spooned around her. She begins to mumble in her sleep as dreams fill her thoughts. She can see a warehouse and inside stands hundreds of vampires. They fall to the ground as a dragon in the center hits them with a charge, but they don't burn they simply rise. An older man laughs-he feels familiar, but she can't place him. In his arms she sees a baby and realizes in seconds it is Emilee.

She wakes with the start, her breathing heavy. "No!" She looks around the room and her eyes meet a sleepy Willow's.

"Baby what's wrong?" Asks the redhead.

"Nothing," she lies, "She's just-I can't get comfortable."

Willow smiles and leans down kissing her girl's tummy, "Sleep Emilee, Mommy needs her rest." She helps Kennedy back to the mattress and snuggles back around her.

Within seconds the redhead is asleep. Kennedy cautiously gets out of bed. She slips into a hoody and a pair of sweat pants and goes up the stairs.

Chapter 23

As Kennedy searches and questions, she finally gets some answers at her third demon bar. The man-or demon behind the bar-Sully-talks, "He was in here a few nights ago-meeting with an older man."

"Know where I can find him?" Asks the young Slayer.

"Can't help you there-" he states and moves away to pour a drink for a demon a few seats away.

She follows him and asks, "What did the other man look like?"

"Didn't really notice-" he looks around the room. "Old-British-with friends of the bumpy kind if you get my meaning."

"Hanging with vamps?"

"Yeah-they all left together."

"Thanks for your help," she tosses a hundred on the counter. The demon raises an eyebrow and looks a little unsure. She tosses a card next to it- "If you see either of them again maybe you could give me a call?"

"Right." He nods and picks up both. Kennedy leaves and a few seconds later a vampire from across the bar follows her out the door.

Outside Kennedy waits in the shadows and follows the vampire as he walks past. She stays a safe distance away not wanting to be spotted. She is hoping he will lead her to Vlad-or at least the Englishman the bartender mentioned.

Back inside the bar the demon bartender is talking on the phone. "She just left," he pauses.

"And you are sure it was her?" Asks the man-his British accent soft.

"I'm sure-I could hear the heartbeat of the unborn-" he answers.

"Excellent, you told her you saw us?"

"Just like we planned and the vampire you left here is following her as we speak."

"Excellent-then the plan is working. She'll be ours before the night is through."

At the house the Slayers are sitting in the kitchen eating as Faith walks in with Vi. Buffy looks up at the once rogue Slayer, "Any luck?"

"Nothing," says Faith, the frustration obvious in her response. "Waste of time." She sits down at the table and picks up a sandwich.

Willow is in bed still sleeping but she is restless. She starts to dream. She is standing in the nursery but there is something strange about it. She looks to see the bed is empty and in the corner stands a man holding her daughter, as their eyes meet she recognizes Travers. "She's mine now-" he says with a wicked smirk.

"No!" Yells the redhead. "Kennedy!" She screams.

"She can't help you." His eyes travel to a window and through it Willow can see a warehouse and inside the body of her Slayer-lifeless.

"No!" She sits up with a start and with her breath rapid she turns on the light and looks around the room. She realizes she is alone and gets up, "Kennedy-" she says and then repeats it louder, "Kennedy!" as she starts for the stairs.

Kennedy has followed the vampire to a warehouse, she recognizes it from her dream. "I know this place," she whispers. She starts toward it but as she does a barrier goes up around her. She rolls her eyes as she runs into it. She can't help but smile as she touches her tummy. "It's okay-I'm not going inside, just gonna look in the window." Her words are futile as the force field stays in place.

Willow runs up the stairs and into the kitchen. She looks at the Slayers but doesn't see Kennedy. "Willow," says Buffy concerned.

"Where's Kennedy?" Asks the scared girl.

"She's not here Red-she not with you?"

"No-I think she's in trouble." She looks around "We need to find her."

"We will-" says Buffy as she looks at the Slayers. "Back out in twos-we'll search in grids."

"Buffy it's Travers-" says Willow.

"Will he's dead, he was in the building when it blew."

"I saw him in my dream-he had Emilee and Kennedy was-" she stops and tears fall.

"We'll find her and she'll be okay," says Buffy.

Willow nods and tries to stop her tears. To the surprise of all those there it's Faith who moves to the redhead and hugs her gently. "Not gonna let anything happen to them-Red-I swear."

Rona speaks, "Any idea where we look?"

"Did you try to talk to her-that in your head thing?" Asks Faith.

"Ah-no-" Willow realizes she didn't. She tries to calm herself, 'Kennedy?' No answer. 'Kennedy tell me where you are?'

'Ah-a warehouse. I found them but-grrrr'

Willow can't stop a chuckle, 'She has you in a barrier doesn't she?'

'It's not funny-'

'That's mama's girl-'

'We're so gonna talk about that,' complains Kennedy.

'Oh-you can count on talking about a lot of things.' There is a pause, 'But Em- she's just keeping you safe. Where are you?'

'A warehouse on West Union-'

'Stay put Faith and Buffy and the others are on their way.'

'Don't have much of a choice do I?'

'No-and you are so in trouble-missy.'

'Yeah, yeah-I know,' says Kennedy you can almost hear the eye roll in her words.

Fifteen minutes later the other Slayers arrive and as quickly as it appeared the barrier is dropped. Kennedy looks down at her extended tummy and shakes her head. "Feel better now," she rubs her hand across her stomach. Faith and Buffy are now at her side. "They're inside I'm pretty sure. Couldn't get close enough to see."

"At least one of you has sense," Faith shakes her head at the young Slayer.

Kennedy glares then looks a little unsure, "How mad is Willow?"

It is Buffy who answers, "You might spend a few nights on the couch."

"Nah-she'll forgive you." Faith is quiet and then she speaks again, "What were you thinking?"

Buffy stops their conversation as she starts forward and they follow along with Rona, Vi, Christy and Jamie. As they stop at a row of windows they look inside to find it empty. "It's empty," whispers the blonde.

"No-he went inside." Kennedy is positive.

"Then he left out another door-cause no one's home," says Rona.

"Let's go inside and check it out," Kennedy says.

"We will in the morning, right now we're going home," Buffy says to all present.

But before they can leave the barrier encircles Kennedy again. "Emilee-"

They are surrounded by a group of about 30 vampires. "Fuck-" says Faith. "Can't they just stop this shit."

"Back to back and work together," orders Buffy.

Kennedy's barrier in place, the young Slayer can't fight. She growls frustrated. "Emilee-" she pleads with her daughter. "Mom needs to help." Surprisingly the barrier falls. Kennedy smiles and is soon fighting with the others. Faith sees her and moves closer, she looks at the younger Slayer. "Don't say it-just kill these guys."

"For now-" says Faith as she goes back to work. Her frustration, anger and fear seem to push her harder and soon all the vamps near her are dust. The once rogue Slayer watches the young Slayer fight, but after Kennedy takes a punch to the face and the barrier returns she kills the vampire who hit the mother-to-be.

Later as they walk through the door and into the kitchen Faith storms past and down the hall toward her room. Kennedy is met with a big hug. "I'm okay," she offers.

Willow pulls back and then smacks her shoulder- "You know where the extra blankets are right?" She asks as she lets her arms drop from around her girl.

"Willow-why are you mad at me-"

"You want the short list?"

"Why is everyone so-eeeeee-" she gives her best Willow impersonation. "I can still fight."

"That's not the point," says Buffy.

"It is-everyone treats me like I'm helpless-even my own kid." The young Slayer storms off as well.

Willow watches her leave and looks at Buffy, "I'll talk to her."

"She has to be more careful-it was a trap you know."

"I know-and so does she. Just let me deal with her-you take care of the vampire stuff," says Willow.

"Deal," smiles the blonde as she hugs Willow. "You okay?"

She nods and then lies, "Sure, peachy with a side of keen."

Buffy rolls her eyes, "If you need to talk-" she lets it fall.

"I know-look I need to check on her."

Xander puts his arm around Buffy's waist as Willow leaves the room, "You know Kennedy can't just sit back and watch right?"

"I know-I'll find something that makes her feel all needed," she smiles at the man.

"Knew you would," he kisses her softly and brings a plate of sandwiches from behind his back.

Buffy smiles and kisses him again as she picks up a sandwich, "Wow-know how to take care of a girl."

"Let's take this to your room and I'll show just how well I can take care of you."

"Like the sound of that," she kisses him once more as they leave the room. She happily munches on a sandwich as he holds her free hand.

In her room Faith stands in front of her arcade style game and shoots hordes of bad guys. She looks toward the door as she hears a soft knock. She closes her eyes and wipes a few stray tears from her face, then walk toward the door. She forces a smile when she sees Dawn.

"Hey-" Dawn says softly.

"Hey-I'm kinda beat-can we talk tomorrow?"

Dawn looks both hurt and surprised by the Dark Slayer's words, "Ah-sure-I guess." She composes herself, "You okay?"

"Will be-just I need to think-" she smiles, almost smirks. "You stay and that won't happen." They both smile knowingly. "Okay?"

"Yeah-you think and I'll try to sleep."

Faith pulls her into a gentle hug and kisses her temple before finding her lips and kissing them deeply. As she pulls back she looks into Dawn's eyes, "Promise me something?"

"Anything," says Dawn as she pulls Faith closer.

"Promise me that when you have our kid-you'll not try to save the world all by yourself." Faith looks into her eyes and the emotions play there.

Dawn is surprised by the words and the open emotion, "I promise, but hey," she teases with a smile, "Who says I'm having the baby?"

Faith smiles and kisses her lips, they move against Dawn's and she moves hers as well. As she deepens the kiss things start to get a little heated. "Decided thinking can wait," she says, her chest heaving as she smiles and kisses Dawn again. Faith picks her up and carries her towards the bed.

In Kennedy and Willow's room the redhead watches as her girl pounds on the heavy bag. Finally after about ten minutes she moves between her girl and the bag. "That's enough."

Kennedy stops, her breathing is ragged, "No-need to-" she puts her hands behind her head as she works on slowing her breathing. "I didn't mean to worry you-I thought I'd be back before you noticed I was gone-" she says softly, her eyes to the ground. "I'm sorry."

"I know you are," Willow wraps her arms around her girlfriend. "And I was teasing about the couch thing." She presses a kiss to her forehead. "But sweetie what you did was dangerous."

"She's okay-" Kennedy's hand goes to her stomach, as the baby becomes active. "A little hyped."

"Yeah-from the magicks-but she'll crash hard, soon."

"Crash?" Kennedy looks worried.

"Sleep-like when I do a major spell."

"Okay-I get it."

The witch pauses and then curiosity gets the best of her, "Did she use another barrier?"

"Yeah, but I told her to put it down and she did."

Willow looks concerned, "Really?"

"Is that bad?" Asks the Slayer.

"No-" she puts her hand on Kennedy's tummy. "It's just-it means she's in control of it-it's not just instinct." Willow can't help but smile. "It's understanding too." She takes Kennedy's hand and leads her to the bed. "You need some sleep, we can finish this a little later."

"Finish it?" Kennedy looks unsure.

"Oh yeah-there will be lots of lecturing and maybe even a resolve face or two. What you did was dumb sweetie."

"I'm a Slayer-" she defends.

"I know-and checking the bars I understand that, but following the vampire by yourself-it shouldn't have happened- pregnant or not." Willow looks at her girl sternly. "You know I'm right." Kennedy nods at her girl, their eyes locking. Willow kisses her softly and leads her to the bed. They crawl in together after peeling down to their tee shirts.

Later as they snuggle together trying to sleep Kennedy speaks, "I had a dream-" she says softly.

"A Slayer dream?"

"What's a Slayer dream?"

"Something that warns you of bad things," answers the redhead.

"Then a definite yes to the Slayer dream stuff cause he-he had Emilee."

"Travers-yeah-I had a dream too," she pulls her Slayer tighter and puts her hand on her girl's tummy.

"I need to tell Buffy," says the mother-to-be.

"After your nap-close your eyes." Willow feels her girl relax against her as her breathing slows. She presses a kiss to her hair and whispers in her ear, "Sleep-" Kennedy's eyes flutter closed and soon she is indeed asleep. Willow continues to hold her, her hand resting on her girl's tummy as Emilee settles down. "Sleep baby girl."

Later as sunshine fills the sky Slayers begin to slowly rise. Buffy walks toward the library and inside. Giles is already at work, he looks up at her, "Anything new?" Asks the blonde.

"It appears that the ritual requires blood-" he states.

"Don't they all?"

"So it would seem-however this one needs more," says the former Watcher.

"We talking sacrifices on a big scale?" Her eyes meet his.

"Simply put-yes." He looks back at the text and reads further.

Buffy stands quietly digesting his words and trying to let them play through her mind.

In Faith's room she and Dawn are tangled together. Dawn is awake and watching Faith sleep restlessly. The once rogue Slayer dreams. She sees an older man don his game face along with hundreds of other vamps. They each hold a victim in their grasp and in unison they feed-but only for a second before the blood from the sacrificed flows into a large vat. Faith wakes with a start but relaxes a little as her eyes meet Dawn's. "Bad dream?" Asks the teenager.

"Awake now," smiles Faith trying to erase the memories. She leans over and kisses Dawn's lips softly.

Dawn pulls back and looks into her eyes, "You okay?"

Faith looks a little worried, "Will be as soon as you come here," she pulls Dawn closer to her and kisses her again.

"It was a Slayer dream wasn't it?" Dawn asks and the once rogue Slayer nods. "We should tell the others."

"We will-but I-" she stops as she tries to organize her thoughts. "It's gonna be bad and-" she stops again but this time it is because Dawn's lips are on hers.

Finally the younger woman pulls back gasping for air, "It'll be okay-" she moves on top of her Slayer-her lips finding her neck as she licks and nips there. "No bad, at least not for a little while." Her hands begin to caress and tease Faith's naked body as her lips do the same. The once rogue Slayer's eyes drift closed as she sighs softly.

In Kennedy and Willow's place the Slayer is awake-she is sitting up with her hand on her tummy. She looks worried as she looks from her tummy to her witch. "Willow-" she says softly but gets no answer. She tries again a little louder and lets her hand caress her arm, "Willow?" The redhead's eyes slowly flutter open. "Hey-" she forces a smile but Willow sees right through it.

"What's wrong sweetie?" She sits up and takes Kennedy's hand.

"She's-she hasn't moved-not since I woke up," she tries to stay calm.

Willow looks to the clock and sees that they have been asleep for just a little over five hours. "She's okay," she lets her hand rest on her Slayer's tummy. "She's just really drained-she used lots of magic keeping the barrier around you."

"What if she's not- what if-" her tears start to fall.

"Hey-" she presses a kiss to her lips, "No-she's okay," she assures.

"You can't know-" she says softly as she looks down at her tummy-her hand rubbing it gently.

"Look at me-" she touches her girl's chin and raises her face-their eyes meet. "I know how magic works-she's just sleeping."

"Maybe we should call the midwife?"

Willow presses another kiss to her forehead, "I tell you what-in an hour or so-if you don't feel her-we'll call."

"Let's call now?" Kennedy is worried.

"I have an idea-" she gets up and moves across the room. She gets a Doppler out of the drawer and starts back to the bed- "Why don't we listen to our girl-huh? Will that make you feel better?"

The younger woman nods and raises her shirt. "Yeah-okay." She leans back against the headboard. Willow takes the wand and begins to move it around after turning it on. Soon the steady heartbeat of the baby fills the room. They both smile.

Willow kisses her lips gently, "Okay?" Kennedy nods and tears fall, "Shhh-it's okay, she's okay." She hugs her girl as she lets the Doppler fall to the bed.

"I'm sorry-I'll never-I'll be more careful."

"Shhhh-" tries Willow again. "I know you will-" she kisses her softly. "I know you will."

Later that day they are all again in the library going over the information Giles found, Willow-then Kennedy and Faith each tells their dream. After they have finished Dawn and Xander look at Buffy. "What?" Asks the oldest Slayer.

"No dream?" Asks Dawn.

"No-nothing Slayer-y," she looks at them.

"Maybe we have all the information we need to finish this," says Xander.

"It's possible," agrees the ex-Watcher.

"Then why do I feel like we're no where?" Asks the blonde.

"Because we don't have all the pieces in order?" Theorizes Willow.

"Like a puzzle?" Questions Faith.

"Exactly," confirms Giles.

"I like puzzles," quips Buffy. "Let's figure this out."

Kennedy sits quietly and Faith notices, she looks to Willow. The redhead answers the unasked question silently. 'She's worried cause the baby hasn't moved this morning.'

'But you're not?'

'No-it's a magic thing-her heart beat was strong.' The witch sounds confident.

As they talk Willow feels a tight squeeze of her hand. She looks to Kennedy and sees her smile. She smiles too as her Slayer places her hand against Em's soft kick. "Morning baby girl," she says softly as she leans over to kiss Kennedy's tummy. Tears slip from her girl's eyes but she is the only one who sees.

Late that night after much puzzle piecing they have learned two things: First, Travers has definitely joined forces with Vlad-and second, that they indeed know very little.

They know that the ritual will be at midnight on Halloween-that the dragon will be brought forth and the vampires changed-but that wasn't nearly enough.

Faith looks at Dawn who takes her hand, "So do think they'll still use the warehouse?" She looks to Buffy.

"Was it in your dream?" Asks the blonde Slayer. Faith nods. "Then yeah-I think that's the place."

"But they know we know about it-" Kennedy speaks.

"Cocky bastards" supplies Faith and the others nod.

Giles speaks simply with a soft smile, "The downfall of many a good plan-overconfidence."

"We know they need sacrifices," says Xander- "so do we step up patrol and make it harder for them to find victims?"

"Yeah-" states Buffy. "Starting tonight. No sacrifices-"

"Not enough power to raise the dragon-" finishes Willow.

"Then," starts the ex-Watcher, "I would recommend some sleep before sunset and then hitting the city in force." Buffy nods her agreement and looks to the others. They all stand and start to disperse from the room.

A few days later things are getting more tense-with less than one week to the ritual. The Slayers are starting to show their tiredness. As the night ends they drift in, find food and then sleep. Their routine is quickly established.

One evening before patrol Faith and Dawn are snuggled together on the couch Faith napping and the younger woman watching cartoons. The Slayer turns to face her girlfriend and settles against her chest. Dawn looks down at her and smiles as she smoothes some loose hair behind her ear. Faith stirs just a little but is soon sleeping soundly again. Dawn looks back to the cartoons. She watches as the animated sun rises and then sets and then rises again-back and forth until the people and animals can not tell daylight from dark. "Shit!" she exclaims. "Faith-wake up."

The Slayer is startled to alertness as she sits up and looks for trouble. Her eyes finally settle on Dawn's worried face. "What's wrong Dawnie?"

"We messed up-'" she starts. "The night patrolling-we messed up."

"How?"

"The Day Walkers-we forgot about them."

Faith stands and runs her fingers through her hair. "Damn!" She grabs her jacket and her crossbow and starts for the door. "Tell-Buffy-I'm gonna check the warehouse."

"Not by yourself-" Dawn is standing at her side before she can go.

"No-I'll get back up-just get your sister." Dawn nods and watches as Faith leaves. She picks up the phone and dials.

In the Slayer's room the phone rings and rings. Down the hallway Buffy lies in Xander's bed sleep restlessly. He watches her and begins to worry. "Buffy-" he whispers but his words don't get through to his girlfriend. Her mind is filled with images as her dream rages.

Slayers fight against vampires. The house is filled with both-dust flies as Faith makes her final stand on the stairs leading to the basement. She has control until a new group appears behind them-stronger and more difficult to kill-Faith is knocked to the ground unconscious and Buffy can finally see what-or who-the once rogue Slayer was protecting.

She wakes as the ring of the phone and Xanders words find their why through at the same time. Her breath heaving she takes the phone from the man-she listens as Dawn speaks and then simply responds, "Okay." She turns off the phone and looks to Xander. "It's bad-just get the others together and I'll be back." She slips from the bed grabbing both her jacket and her crossbow. She is gone before he responds.

In their basement home, unaware of the trouble the others have discovered, Kennedy and Willow kiss and caress each other. Kennedy's fingers tease slick folds as Willow moans softly. "Should be resting-" protests the redhead but her protests are forgotten as her lover's fingers find their way inside. "Goddess-yes-" she sighs as her girl begins a gentle rhythm. The redhead's hands and lips continue to touch her girl.

At the warehouse Buffy, Faith and a few other Slayers watch as lines of terrified people are led into the warehouse by a group of Day Walkers. "Shit-" mutters Faith. "They got what they needed-"

"Yeah-" she looks frustrated but also worried unable to shake the dream. As the last of the Day Walkers go inside she stands and starts away. Faith follows as do the other Slayers. Buffy spouts a few quiet orders and the younger Slayers branch out. She is now alone with the other senior Slayer. "Faith-there's something you should know."

"Had your Slayer dream?" Buffy nods. "How bad?"

Buffy speaks softly, "You died and they got Kennedy and the baby."

Faith stops walking-then looks at the blonde, "Not-happening-I won't let'em hurt the kid. I made a promise." She walks away before Buffy can see the tears.

Chapter 24

"We both know it's the only way. We tell anyone else about the dream-we can't stop them. No way you'll get Red to the warehouse and you need her there."

Buffy pauses and then looks at the other Slayer-one time enemy-now friend, "I can't just let you die," her voice waivers. "Dawn'll be really pissed," she forces a teasing smile.

"It won't happen-hell you couldn't kill me, you think some lame ass vampire can?"

Buffy takes a deep breath and then let's it out slowly. She nods, "Okay-we do it your way."

Faith nods, "Cool-three days right?"

The blonde Slayer nods, "Yeah-we'll meet with the others later, tell'em the plan. Get some sleep."

"Just gonna get a little air first."

"A little cigarette you mean?"

"Nah-stopped that-that stuff will kill you." Faith winks.

The oldest Slayer rolls her eyes, "This works and Willow finds out-you won't have to worry about cigarettes."

"I can handle Red," she states confidently.

"You keep thinking that." She stands as Faith looks unsure. "Night Faith."

"Night B," she says in return as the blonde looks away. The once rogue Slayer reaches under the swing and pulls out a pack of cigarettes but looks confused when she finds it empty. She feels inside to find a piece of paper that she unrolls. She reads it and shakes her head-she smiles a little, "D-" she stands and starts to the house.

Inside the house Kennedy sits up in bed breathing slow and even as she does an exercise from her Lamaze class. She stops and takes a deep cleansing breath and lets it out. She looks nervously at Willow trying to decide if she should wake her. She puts her hand on her stomach and smiles, "Impatient, yeah-you're gonna fit right in," she whispers. Willow stirs and Kennedy brushes a hand across her cheek. She smiles at her as the redhead's eyes open. "Hey."

"Hey, why aren't you asleep?" She sits up next to her.

"Emilee-" she says simply.

Willow puts her hand on her stomach and smiles. "Let Mommy sleep," she says softly. However, as she feels Kennedy's stomach tighten under her fingers and sees her girl take in a deep breath and start her breathing exercises her eyes get huge-excitement, fear, wonder all pass across her face. "Are you-? Is that?-Should we call the midwife?" She is trying hard not to panic as her girl takes her hand and smiles.

Kennedy shakes her head as she works through the mild contraction. She finally takes a cleansing breath and smiles at her lover. "It's normal-kinda like practice contractions-I read about them in one of the books you bought."

"Ah-yeah-ah-Braxton-Hicks contractions-that's what they're called but how do you know they're not the real ones?" Asks Willow. Kennedy's confident demeanor is suddenly gone as she meets Willow's, "Let's call her okay?" Suggests the redhead.

"Ah-yeah-okay," the young mother-to-be nods in agreement. Willow reaches over her to pick up the phone and dials. "We can do this right?"

Willow smiles and kisses her softly, "Absolutely, can't wait to see her."

"Me neither-we're gonna have a talk about that force field thing," the young Slayer teases with a smile.

"Ah-hi-this-this is Willow Rosenberg-" she continues her conversation.

Faith is standing beside Dawn's bed just watching her sleep. She reaches down and caresses her cheek with her fingers and gently brushes a strand of loose hair behind her ear. "God you're beautiful," whispers the Slayer. She blinks away tears as she wonders if the next few days will be their last. "I love you Dawn."

She is surprised as she hears the words returned, "I love you Faith." She reaches up and takes her Slayer's hand.

"Thought you were asleep." She sits next to her on the bed.

"Was-" she pulls her down to lie with her. As she stretches out beside her, she kisses her softly. "Missed you."

"Missed you too-D-but hey-" she holds up the empty package and the note as she smiles.

Dawn smiles, "Don't wanna lose you, you know?"

"Yeah-" she hugs her tightly.

"Everything okay?" Asks the younger woman.

"5X5 D-" she winks and kisses her again. Dawn leans into the kiss and their lips begin to move together. Faith however, pulls back and presses a chaste kiss against her lips. "Can I just hold you?"

"If that's what you want." Dawn smiles though a little unsure. Faith pulls her closer still until finally the young woman is resting on top of her. "Sure you're okay baby?" Faith presses a kiss to her forehead and wraps her arms around her tightly. Dawn gasps a little and then quips, "Need to breath-" Faith blushes and loosens her hold just a little.

"Better?" Asks the Slayer and she feels Dawn nod against her chest.

A little later Kennedy and Willow are still awake as the contractions continue. "One more before the timer goes off and we're gonna call back-" Kennedy rolls her eyes at the nervous redhead. "It's what she said." Kennedy nods as she finishes her exercise.

"Don't you think I'd know if I were having the baby?" Kennedy smiles.

"Maybe-it's just we're never done this before and I don't want anything to go wrong-not up to delivering her here-" Willow says trying to explain.

Kennedy takes her hand and kisses it, then smiles- "Relax Willow-"

"Trying-I don't mean to be all nervous-but-" Kennedy leans over and kisses her redhead. As her lips move against Willow's the redhead begins to forget. She matches Kennedy's tempo as her hand begin to explore her Slayer. Kennedy's tongue finds its way between her lips and into her mouth and she moans. The scary thoughts of Kennedy being in labor disappear until she hears her girl moan. She pulls back and sees Kennedy's panicked look. "Baby?"

Kennedy struggles to start the breathing exercise as this pain is both stronger and different from the others. "Willow-I-" she tries to talk but can't get her breath.

Willow puts her forehead against Kennedy's and relaxes noticeably. "Breath sweetie-deep breath in-" her girl struggles but finally manages to do what she is told. Willow breathes with her and when it ends they take a cleansing breath and their eyes meet. "Hospital-okay?" Says the redhead.

"Oh-yeah," she moves slowly from the bed and Willow does the same. She goes to the closet and gets the bag that is already packed there. They look at each other and smile. "It's really happening-we're gonna have a baby."

Willow smiles and kisses her softly, "Can't wait-well I can-until you know we're at the hospital-and it's-" the babble stops as Kennedy presses her lips to Willow's. "Better go," she says as she pulls out of the kiss. She takes Kennedy's hand and they start to the door. "Oh-we should tell the others." Without waiting for Kennedy's answer she sends a silent message to Buffy. 'Buffy-Kennedy's having the baby-'

In the other wing the blonde Slayer who is not able to sleep can't stop the smile the words cause. It fades however when she realizes it's a little early. 'Isn't it early?'

'A few days-so no not really-we'll call when we know more.'

'Want me to come with?' Offers Buffy knowing sleep isn't gonna happen now.

'Thanks-but not yet-we'll call.' With those words Willow is gone from her mind.

Buffy looks at the sleeping man in her bed and smiles. She goes over to the bed and slides in next to him, "Xander-" she says softly. "Xander," she repeats a little louder.

His eyes open and then focus on her, "This better be good," he says as he realizes it is still dark outside.

"Kennedy's in labor," states the blonde simply and his eyes go wide as he sits up.

"Labor?-" Buffy nods.

He jumps from the bed and begins to get dressed, "What are you doing?" Asks his Slayer.

"I'm gonna be an uncle-not gonna miss this." He begins to get dressed, she watches smiling.

In the opposite wing Dawn sleeps on Faith's chest but the once rogue Slayer isn't sleeping at all. She rubs her hand up and down Dawn's back-and runs her fingers through her hair. Tears stream from the Slayer's eyes and she doesn't try to stop them. "I'm not ready to give you up," she whispers.

Dawn's eyes open and she looks at her girl and sees the tears. "Talk to me." She says softly. "What's wrong?" She touches her Slayer's cheek.

"I don't want-it's bad-" she stops and tries to compose herself. She sits up slowly and Dawn sits up with her. The younger woman ends up straddling her lap, her lips pressed to Faith's forehead. "Buffy had a dream."

Dawn takes a deep breath and looks into her girlfriend's eyes, "A Slayer dream?" Faith nods. "They don't always come true-" Dawn tells her.

"I know-but there's a chance." She wraps her arms around Dawn and pulls her closer. "I'm not afraid to die-I'm just not ready to give you up. There's so much we haven't done."

Dawn begins to cry too- "Let's-let's go away-" tries the teen. "We could travel."

"Have wild sex on 3 continents-then have babies." Faith repeats Dawn's words from months before with a smile.

"You got a deal-we'll leave in the morning."

"No-I can't leave." Their eyes meet. "It's my job to protect people."

"Buffy can protect them-it's her job too," Dawn tries to find an answer though she knows there isn't one. "I'm not letting you die." She shakes her head and tears fall harder.

Faith finally gets her tears under control and she presses her lips to Dawn's. "I'll be careful-extra careful."

"I don't understand why we can't just leave-" she tries again.

"Cause-I gotta make sure Kennedy and the baby are okay."

"Can't Willow?" Asks Dawn. "She's all powerful-and she can-"

Faith's fingers on her lips stop her words, "She'll be with Buffy-stopping Vlad-my job is here-stopping the vampires."

"If you're here-I am too-" she states.

"No-you are leaving."

Dawn pulls away and stands up, "I'm so not-" she shakes her head. "Not without you."

"I don't want you to see me di-" she tries but tears start again.

Dawn moves back to her and curls around her. They lie in each other's arms and cry.

At the hospital the pain has stopped. The embarrassed couple look sheepishly at the tired midwife. "Sorry Edwina-we thought it was real."

"It's okay Willow-it happens," she smiles.

Kennedy looks at her unsure, "You're just saying that to make me feel better."

"No-honestly-it happens a great deal." The older woman pats Kennedy's arm. "You're anxious and that is understandable."

Willow kisses her girlfriend's forehead, "Let's get home and back to bed. You need your rest."

"Why don't I check you while we're here, and you won't have to worry about your appointment on Tuesday?" Kennedy nods and lies back on the bed. Willow holds her hand while the other rests on her girl's tummy. Edwina smiles at the redhead. The midwife feels and then measures the young Slayer's stomach. She looks up at Kennedy, "She's in great position-her head's already down."

Kennedy looks unsure, "What's that mean?"

Willow smiles and kisses her softly, "Means-anytime." She smiles even bigger. "She's ready."

Kennedy looks at the midwife who just nods. "Wow-okay-wow-" she repeats her words not forming beyond that. "She's-" she stops again and tightens her hold on her redhead's hand.

"Let's see if you're dilated at all."

"Ah-wouldn't that mean-they said she wasn't in labor," Willow speaks.

"Sometimes the early stages are tricky-" the midwife looks at the two moms.

Faith and Dawn are still lying spooned together with Dawn holding her girlfriend tightly. Dawn turns Faith to face her and she kisses her lips chastely. "Let's have a baby." Dawn says her words soft but sure.

Faith looks unsure, "D-it's not a good idea. We're not ready-I'm not ready," she admits.

"Neither am I really-but if I'm gonna lose-if you might not make it-I want a part of you." She fights tears as she finishes. "I know it sounds all selfish-and it is-but it's what I want."

Faith looks at her unsure. She says simply, "No."

"No?"

"No-cause I'm not gonna die and we'll have our family when it's right." She pulls Dawn closer. "I promise."

"You can't know." Dawn cries again. "Please Faith-please?"

"We'll talk tomorrow." She assures the teenager. Dawn nods as she holds her tighter. Faith presses a kiss to her lips but it becomes passionate quickly. Hands explore-and lips follow moving to soft skin. Both moan as hands find bare bodies.

The next day finally dawns and the sleepy residents of the mansion try to wake up. Xander and Buffy are the first to see the new day. They both stretch and then look at each other, "Need to get up," says the blonde Slayer. "Scooby meeting ASAP-need to go over the plans for the big night."

"Can this big meeting wait till after breakfast?" He asks as his stomach growls on cue.

Buffy smiles and kisses him, "Yeah-pancakes okay?"

He nods but as she tries to get out of bed he stops her, "Where you going?"

"Breakfast remember?"

"Aren't you forgetting something?" Asks the man.

Buffy smiles and leans back in to kiss him, "Better?"

"It'll do for now." He smiles as they both slide from the bed. He pulls her into a hug and kisses her again.

She looks up at him out of breath as they end the kiss, "Wow-what was that for?"

"I need a reason?" He asks. She shakes her head no and smiles though it fades as she thinks of the dream-and Faith.

Faith and Dawn are tangled together-the rest of their night was spent making love. Finally sleeping the younger woman whines, "No-no-don't leave me-" Faith's eyes open and she pulls her girlfriend closer. Dawn's eyes open and she leans in to kiss her lips again. "Don't leave me."

"Shhh-" she kisses her again as her hands caress Dawn's body. "Not going anywhere," she says and then thinks. 'Not without one hell of a fight.'

Willow is awake watching her girl sleep. She smiles as rubs her hand across Kennedy's tummy. She feels Emilee kick and then the muscles tighten as another practice contraction starts. Kennedy's eyes open and she groans, "Okay-not a good way to wake up." She pouts.

Willow kisses her nose playfully, and watches as she breathes through the pain. "Better?" She asks as she kisses her lips.

Kennedy smiles, "Definitely." Willow spoons around her girl and wraps her arms around her stomach. Kennedy puts her hands on Willow's. "Who do you think she'll look like?"

"Us-" Willow says with a smile. "I can't believe she's almost here."

"Can't wait to hold her." Kennedy says as she turns back to face her girl. Willow touches her face. Kennedy kisses her hand as she takes it in hers. "I love you."

"I love you," responds the redhead. "Why don't you sleep a little more and I'll fix you breakfast in bed?" The redhead smiles.

"Mmmm-sounds great." Kennedy says to her surprise and the young mother-to-be's eyes flutter closed. Willow kisses her cheek and climbs out of bed.

Later breakfast done the gang gathers in the library to talk. Buffy looks at Faith. She notices that Dawn's hold on her hand is tighter and she knows almost at once that her sister has been told the truth. She worries that her sister will not be able to handle the loss of the once rogue Slayer but she is brought from her worry as Giles speaks, "Willow and I were able to make some progress. And-" he continues, "After speaking with Buffy and Faith we have decided on a course of action."

Willow is next to speak, "The ritual itself can not be stopped, once it has started, the dragon will come forth."

"That's not the good news I hope," says Xander.

"No-the good news is that my magick is strong enough to stop the change of the vampires."

"How?" Asks Kennedy not sure she believes the words.

Willow smiles and moves her hand to rest on her Slayer's stomach. "It's a variation of the barrier Emilee uses on you. It blocks the outside forces."

Kennedy smiles and kisses her girl, "Smart-" she kisses her softly.

"So here's the plan," Buffy starts. "We divide into two groups."

"Two groups wait-" Kennedy starts- "Dividing is bad."

"Not in this case," Xander starts. "It makes them divide their strength."

"But we do too-" Dawn adds.

"But we're stronger divided then they are," She looks at her girl. "It'll work," says Faith.

Kennedy who was initially unsure speaks, "So half to the warehouse to stop the change and half here to keep Emilee safe?"

Buffy and Faith nod. Willow looks at her Slayer. Dawn watches them unnoticed as both put a protective hand on Kennedy's stomach. "Halloween night-" says Buffy.

"Be ready to go at sundown," adds Faith.

"Faith, Giles and Kennedy here with half the troops." The once dark Slayer nods. "Willow, Xander, and Dawn you're with me at the warehouse-" Buffy supplies.

Dawn speaks, "No-I'm staying here."

Buffy looks at Faith unsure, "It's cool B-she stays-G-Man goes with you." Buffy nods and watches her sister take Faith's hand.

As the day passes, the people try to go on with things as normal as possible. Willow and Kennedy nap-though the young mother-to-be wakes frequently with small contractions. She decides they are more Braxton-Hicks pain and doesn't complain.

Xander and Buffy are in the training room. He holds the heavy bag as she hits it again and again. "What aren't you telling me?"

"Nothing," she lies.

"Buff-this is me Mr. Observe-y. I saw the looks between you and Faith all day." She looks away and he touches her face turning her eyes back to him. "I'm guessing Slayer Dream-and it didn't have kittens in it."

"Right about that-no kittens."

"Something about Faith?" Buffy nods. "How bad?"

"Is there another one of those urns you used to bring me back?"

The man looks confused briefly then understanding follows. "You told her?" Buffy nods. "Wow-and again wow."

"Exactly," says the oldest Slayer.

In Faith's room, she and Dawn are sitting on the couch watching television. Faith stares at the screen but finally stops pretending as she looks at Dawn. "Okay."

"Okay?"

"The baby thing-let's do it," Faith's voice waivers slightly.

Dawn leans in and kisses her softly. "You're sure?-I mean-"

"I'm sure-I get that there's a kid whether-I mean when I don't die-" she winks at her girl. "We can handle it together-you and me."

"I know we can." Dawn touches her face.

"But Willow and Kennedy-they can't know." Faith says a little worried.

"Not a problem I can get the necklace," assures the teenager as she moves her hand taking Faith's in hers.

Faith looks unsure, "You can get it?" Faith smirks. "D-who you kidding-you divert and I'll take it."

"Nope-it's kinda my specialty. You'll just have to trust me on this one."

Faith runs the fingers of her free hand through her hair, "Yeah-been doing a lot of that lately."

Dawn smiles and kisses her again, "Come on," she stands and pulls her lover to her feet. "We got a necklace to steal."

"Borrow-" Faith restates. "Borrow-we're gonna give it back."

"Borrow," says Dawn with a half smile, "It doesn't sound half as adventurous when you say it like that."

Faith rolls her eyes and they go out the door. "Let's go my little jewel thief."

"That's better," teases Dawn.

Willow is researching on the computer as Kennedy naps on the couch. There is a knock on the door and the redhead moves to answer it. She smiles as she sees Faith and Dawn there. "Hey-we're going out dancing, gonna unwind a little," lies Faith. "Thought we'd see if you two wanted to go?"

"Ah-" she looks toward Kennedy and all eyes follow. The three of them smile. "She didn't sleep much last night." Willow explains.

"Guess we'll have to paint the town by ourselves," says Faith as she smiles at Dawn.

"Have fun," Willow smiles as she speaks.

Dawn smiles, "Plan to-oh-can I use your bathroom before we go?--Too many mochas."

"Shhh-the 'M' word isn't allowed in this apartment."

"Sorry," apologizes Dawn. Willow points toward the bathroom and the teenager starts that way.

Willow and Faith stand looking at each other. "So-were you researching the Vlad guy?"

"No-" Willow smiles, "Baby stuff."

"Cool-you excited?" Faith asks making conversation.

"Excited-scared-excited-and did I mention scared?" She blushes.

"Maybe-" she smiles. "You'll be a great mom."

Willow rolls her eyes, "I hope-" she bites her bottom lip nervously. "Haven't been around kids much."

"Me neither-but it can't be that hard right?" Faith asks with hope in her words.

"It's hard-I'm guessing-but in a good way. I mean that's how I look at it."

Before Willow can continue her babble Dawn walks back in the room. "So we're all set?" Asks Faith her words carrying a double meaning.

Dawn takes her hand, "We're good to go." She looks nervously at Willow- "Bye."

"Have fun," the redhead says as she watches them leave.

In the kitchen Dawn takes the necklace from her pocket and holds it for Faith to see. "Okay-is there something in your past you're not telling me?" The once rogue Slayer winks. "I mean I came clean with you."

Dawn giggles, "Well, there was the awkward teenage kleptomaniac thing."

"You?" She seems unsure.

"Me," confirms Dawn. "But I'm reformed." She assures her girl. "Let's go dancing."

"That was just a scam to get the necklace, there is no dancing."

"Wanna bet?" Dawn raises an eyebrow.

Faith leans in and kisses her softly. The once rogue Slayer's arms wrap around her waist as she pulls her closer-flush against her body. Dawn moans and her Slayer smirks. "You say something about dancing?"

Dawn kisses up her girl's neck and causes her to shiver and then moan. She whispers in her ear, "Take me dancing-if you do, there'll be a surprise."

Faith tries to keep her breathing calm, "What surprise?"

"Can't say-that makes it not a surprise."

Faith growls playfully and kisses her deeply before speaking, she takes a deep breath, her lungs needing air, then whispers- "Dancing it is." She takes her hand and leads her out the door.

Chapter 25

"Wasn't there-but you found me," he pulls the rose from behind his back and hands it to her. "For you." He smiles and she kisses him. "Gotta remember to get you flowers more often." He winks playfully.

"So where were you," she asks as she wraps her arms around him and he wraps his around her?

"Doing a favor for a friend," says the man-very avoid-y.

"And this friend, does she have a name?"

"Maybe-" Xander smiles but doesn't expound on the answer.

"It's a secret-I get it-" she pouts, "I wanna know who's getting a surprise."

He shrugs, "Can't say." She moans and the pouting dissolves as he pulls the drooping lip between his lips.

At the club Faith and Dawn dance together, their bodies moving as one to the beat of the drums. Faith's hands caress her girl and Dawn leans into the touch. The Slayer kisses her neck before whispering in her ear, "We really need to go," she is able to gasp out as Dawn's hands do some exploring of their own.

Dawn smiles, knowing the affect she is having on her lover. "Soon," she leans in forcing their bodies even closer. The song changes and the soft sound causes the teenager to slow her movements-they are deliberate-seductive-as her hands work their way under the once rogue Slayer's tee shirt as she caresses soft skin. She kisses her softly but it heats up quickly.

Those there begin to watch the display as the couple touch and taste as they dance. When the song ends the two out of breath women make their way to a table and sit down. Faith smiles at the flushed teen, "Something to drink?"

"Water's good-" she smiles at her Slayer.

"Water it is," she kisses her softly. "Be right back."

"I'll be here," says Dawn.

Faith walks to the bar and while she waits her turn the man next to her smiles and then speaks, "Some show you put on out there." Faith doesn't answer just looks towards Dawn, "The two of you interested in-"

Faith glares at him, "Don't finish that sentence."

He puts a hand on her shoulder and she looks down at it and then up to him, "I was just saying-" before he can finish he finds himself on his knees as she twists his arm behind his back. "Hey-that-" again he stops as he sees the other girl beside them. "She is beautiful," he comments. Faith almost smiles.

"Faith I decided against the water-let's get outta here okay?" She puts her hand on the Slayer's back.

Faith looks from the guy to Dawn and then back at him, "Your lucky day," she lets him go as she takes Dawn's hand. The two of them walk away. "Can I have my surprise now?"

Dawn smiles, "Maybe-if you tell me what was going on back there."

"It was nothing-he just-" she shakes her head and then smirks wanting to see her girl's reaction. "He was a little too into us."

Dawn begins to blush as the words sink in and register, "He wanted-" she stops as she sees Faith both grin and nod. "With us-" she stops again.

"Should I have said yes?" Faith responds with a wink as she pretends to turn back to the bar.

"No!" She pulls her Slayer out the door not willing to share with anyone. Faith giggles as Dawn rolls her eyes and they step into the night air.

In Kennedy and Willow's room the redhead walks into the nursery and smiles as she sees Kennedy sitting in the rocking chair with an outfit across her stomach and one in her hand. "So what do you think," says the brunette softly. "Which one do you want to wear home Emilee?" Tears fill Willow's eyes as she watches the woman she loves. "This one-you're sure?"

Willow wipes her eyes and speaks, "If I get a vote it's my favorite too." She smiles as she walks over to her Slayer and kisses her gently.

"Then this is the one," she smiles. She hands the outfit to the redhead and Willow walks across to the changing table and puts it inside the suitcase there.

"All packed," she asks as she looks back at her girlfriend.

"I think so," answers the slightly nervous mother-to-be. Her eyes close as another pain starts.

"You okay?" Willow walks over to her and kneels in front of her. "Sweetie?" She puts her hands on Kennedy's thighs.

"Mmmm-yeah-just more of those Braxton-Hicks things." She leans forward and Willow does as well until their lips meet in a soft kiss. The redhead stands and takes Kennedy's hand and helps her from the chair. "What do you have in mind?" Asks the young Slayer with a raised eyebrow.

"Thinking maybe bed-" she kisses her again as they move that way. The kiss continues as they enter their room-lips move against lips and each kiss becomes progressively more passionate. Kennedy's hands explore Willow's body and she moans lightly as the back of her legs bump against the bed and she sits down. Kennedy follows her and ends up sitting next to her. Willow pulls away and smiles as she crawls up to the pillows. Kennedy smiles and follows, she carefully lies down beside her girl.

"Too many clothes," says the young Slayer as she tries to unbutton her girl's pajama top. Willow's hands stop hers and she looks up to meet Kennedy's confused eyes, "Something not right?"

Willow touches her face, "No-everything is perfect." She leans in and kisses her one more time. "Well-if you don't count the whole vampire thing and the evil man who wants our daughter."

Kennedy takes her hand from her face and kisses it, "I'll keep her safe I swear."

"I know you will," she smiles. "And I'll toast the vamp guys and then we'll have a baby." She kisses her again chastely.

"Like the sound of that," she the brunette.

"Me too-" she turns to her side and coaxes Kennedy to do the same. She spoons her girl from behind resting her hands on Kennedy's stomach. "You know we never talked about a middle name," says the redhead.

"No, we haven't have we?"

"Nope-" says Willow. "Any ideas?"

"Maybe Rose-?"

"Emilee Rose-" tests Willow. "That could work, very yellable."

"Yellable?"

"You know when she gets in trouble and you use her whole name?" Willow supplies.

"So you've already decided she's gonna get in trouble?" Kennedy turns in her arms and smiles.

"Bound to happen-" Willow admits. "Kids get in trouble-well I didn't but that was-and now-" she stops. "I like the name." Kennedy smiles, kisses her redhead on the nose and turns her back to her girl who instantly wraps her arms around her again.

The door to Dawn's room opens and all most at once Faith spots the roses. She begins to smile as she pulls Dawn closer and kisses her lips. "So pretty romantic with the flowers-" she spots the unlit candles. "And the candles."

Dawn smiles, "Just the beginning," she says simply. "Why don't you light them and I'll be right back?"

Faith holds her, "What if I don't want you to go?" She kisses her again softly.

"Ummm-well, what if I promise it'll be worth the wait?" Dawn says with a seductive smile.

"Then okay," she lets her go and then with another soft kiss, Dawn disappears into the bathroom. Faith moves to the drawer and finds the matches, she begins to light the candles. She smiles when she sees a food cart and a bottle of champagne chilling. "What are you up to?" She smiles. With the last candle lit she steps back to look at the room. Her attention is drawn to the bathroom door as it opens and Dawn walks out in a short nightie. "Wow!"

Dawn blushes as she smiles, "So you like?"

"Oh yeah," she moves to her and kisses her. Their lips begin to move together, finally Faith pulls back. She leans her forehead do Dawn's and both try to slow their breathing. "You look beautiful." She wraps her arms around her girl.

The teenager hands her the necklace, "Wanna put this on for me?"

The once rogue Slayer nods and licks her lips nervously. Dawn turns her back and Faith fastens the jewelry around her neck. She presses her lips to Dawn's shoulder. "You're sure about this right?" She asks as she turns her to face her. She touches the necklace.

"I am, are you?"

"Yeah-nervous but I'm sure," she nods and kisses her softly. She takes her hand and starts to led her to the bed but Dawn stops her.

"Could you put this on too?" She asks as she holds a Claddagh ring toward the Slayer.

So nervous her voice squeaks Faith asks, "Dawn is that a-" she looks at the teenager unsure.

"A Claddagh ring-" says as the younger woman. She smiles at Faith's nervousness, fully expecting and prepared for it. "It's a sign of devotion Faith."

"Yeah-Angel told me about it once," she is able to say.

"The hands are for friendship, the crown for loyalty, and the heart well-" she stops as Faith speaks.

"Love-" says the Slayer. "I do love you-" she adds, "More then-" she stops as she takes a step back.

"To me its those things but more-it would mean that you love me and our daughter-"

"I do-and I will-" she giggles nervously and then so does Dawn.

"That sounded a little like a wedding and that's not what I meant for this to be," says the teen. "I'm not ready-not yet-"

"I get that-neither am I but," the Slayer stops and thinks about her words. "How about this-how about I promise I'll be here?"

"Yeah-that's-yeah," she smiles and kisses her girlfriend gently. She holds up her hand and Faith sees the ring. "Wear it like this-that means you belong to someone."

Faith nods as she slips the ring onto the middle finger of her right hand and then looks into Dawn's eyes, "I'm yours-" she says softly. "And you're mine." Dawn nods afraid to speak, knowing tears will fall and that would scare her girl. So, instead she leans in and kisses her and instantly it is passionate. Faith picks her up and as she does Dawn wraps her legs around her waist. She carries her girl to the bed and sits down. The kiss continues as the Slayer's hands explore, she soon divests Dawn of her nightie as the necklace shimmers against her skin, a light glow begins.

Buffy lies awake in Xander's arms, she turns slightly and kisses his shoulder. The man's eyes slowly open. "Why aren't you asleep?" He asks his tone both playful and serious.

"Trying to think of a way to stop the dream from coming true," she answers.

Xander sits up and she does as well, "Faith can take care of herself."

"I know its just-" she stops.

"She's family and you're worried," he says with a smile expecting Buffy to protest.

To his surprise she doesn't, "Yeah, she is-"

"Maybe you could ask Willow to make her a charm?" He suggests.

"A charm-" she smiles. "A charm would help."

"So we'll talk to her in the morning?-Well the morning that's actually daylight." He smiles.

Buffy rolls her eyes, "Fine go back to sleep you big baby," she teases. She squeals as he rolls her under him and begins to tickle her. She wiggles to get away but the tickling stops as his hands begin to caress her instead. He kisses her softly and soon they are lost together.

In the basement apartment Kennedy and Willow are in bed-they now face each other, the brunette sleeps while the redhead just watches her. She touches her cheek with her fingers and smiles, "I love you," she whispers. Her hand moves to rest on Kennedy's stomach and she rubs it gently, Emilee kicks to let her know she's awake as well. "Mama's girl," she says. "You need to rest-you're gonna have to keep mom safe tomorrow while I'm gone." She slides down to press her lips to Kennedy's tummy. The baby taps out her understanding and Willow smiles.

Faith and Dawn kiss and caress as the teenager is again on edge- "Please Faith-" she begs as her Slayer's fingers slow and almost stop, "Don't stop," she whines. "Don't-" she gasps as she feels Faith's fingers begin again and her lover immediately curls them to brush her most sensitive stop. "Yes!" She screams as her body trembles with a hard release. As her orgasm continues so does Faith's fingers-building her up yet again. Their lips meet as muffled moans are captured there.

Later Faith and Dawn lie tangled together, the necklace lies against the teenager's glistening chest. They both hold a glass of champagne. Faith kisses just below it and Dawn shivers, tiny aftershocks still present. "Think it worked?" She asks her breathing still ragged.

"If it did, no more of this for you," she takes the glass away and leans to place it on the nightstand. Faith then smiles a devilish smile and moves on top of the girl, "And if it didn't-maybe we should try one more time," she leans down to kiss her neck. "Just to make sure," she offers.

"And just how do we make sure?" Dawn asks as she caresses Faith's bare back.

"We'll just have to make love again," she says with a smirk. "Unless you have a better idea."

"No-no-that idea sounds just fine," she gasps and leans her head back farther into the pillows as she exposes her neck to Faith's tender kisses.

The next morning everyone sits around the breakfast table quietly. The only ones talking are the young Slayer's-they have just been given their assignments for the night. Rona and Vi both look at Buffy unsure, not agreeing with her decision. They think staying at the house is a waste of their experience. As the two Slayers stand and leave Faith kisses Dawn and whispers, "I need to talk to the troops." Dawn smiles and nods as she kisses her softly before she goes.

Kennedy and Buffy smile at the exchange but it is Willow and Xander who notice the rings. They smile at each other and Willow speaks silently, 'We'll just keep that a secret okay?-No reason to have distracted Slayers.'

'With you on that one Wills-' he nods slightly.

Buffy speaks, "So I figure you could do a protection spell on the house to slow them down right?"

"Did that last night," says the witch.

"Last night when you were suppose to be sleeping?" Asks Kennedy with a raised eye.

"It only took a little while," she assures. "Then I went right to sleep."

Kennedy still looks unconvinced but she leans in and kisses her nose, "That means you take a nap after lunch."

"If it'll make you feel better," she smiles.

"It will," says her Slayer.

"Then I'll nap-"

"And snuggle?" Asks Kennedy. Willow nods as she takes her hand.

Buffy and Xander watch the exchange and smile.

Later while the Slayers continue to plan Xander and Willow sit in the kitchen. The redhead sips tea. "What's on your mind?" She asks her old friend.

"I need a favor," he starts. "Dawn's worried about Faith-"

"So Buffy's worried about Dawn-" Willow adds.

"Something like that-" he says.

"How about a couple of charms?" She volunteers.

"You read my mind." Xander then looks worried, "You didn't really did you?"

"No silly, I just guessed. I'll have them in a couple of hours," the redhead says with a smile.

He nods, "And then your nap?"

"Pretty sure I'm not getting out of that," she says with a smile.

At the warehouse as sundown approaches the vampires assemble together. Vlad and Quentin make their final preparations. The army of vampires are divided into two groups-those already Day Walkers set to lead the charge to take the Slayer and her baby. Quentin speaks, "Remember no harm must come to the baby or her mother." He smiles, but you may do as you wish with the others. The morphed out demons smile.

At the house Dawn and Faith are sitting on the couch arms around each other. The once rogue Slayer's hand touches Dawn's stomach, "You think it worked-that a baby-our baby is growing inside you?"

Dawn fights tears and nods, "Pretty sure," she winks. "Did everything we needed to, to make it happen."

"Be careful tonight-don't take chances," says Faith.

"I won't-you just take care of you and Kennedy-I'll be fine," assures the teenager. She kisses her girlfriend chastely. As they pull apart there is a knock at the door. "I'll get it," she says as she gets up and crosses the room. She opens the door to find Buffy standing there. "Hey-something wrong?"

"No-just-can I come in?" Asks the blonde Slayer.

"Sure," Dawn steps aside and they both walk in and over to Faith.

Buffy looks at them as they sit together and she can't help but feel something is different. "Since the dream and-well I was worried so I had Willow make these for both of you." She hands the charms toward the couple.

"Thanks B-" says Faith. "How do they work?"

"That I'm not sure-but they're supposed to protect you."

"Cool," smiles Dawn. "A little extra magical help never a bad thing." She takes them from her sister.

"You just wear them," she adds and watches as Dawn and Faith put the necklaces on each other. "So-I'll just go now."

"Hey B wanna hang out with us-watch a movie?" Asks Faith.

"Ah-can't got plans-" she smiles.

"Xander plans?" Asks Dawn with a raised eyebrow.

"Maybe-" she says teasingly as she goes across the room and out the door.

Later, before sunset the gang is assembled in the entranceway of the house. Buffy is talking-speech giving as usual. "I shouldn't have to remind anyone how important this is-we stop these guys or vampires as we know them don't exist and our job gets a hundred times harder."

Faith speaks next, "As for those here with me-we keep K safe no matter the cost. They get the baby-well-" she stops. "That's not gonna happen." She looks at each of the girls now in her charge. "Is it?"

"Not on my watch," says Rona. Faith smiles.

Willow hold on Kennedy's hand gets tighter, "Be careful-don't do-be careful."

"Careful," promises the young Slayer. She kisses her softly. Kennedy looks at Buffy, Xander and Giles- "Take care of her."

Xander smiles, "She'll take care of us."

Buffy takes a deep breath, "Time to do this." She starts to the door and the others follow.

Kennedy and Willow kiss again, as the redhead is suddenly unsure about leaving her family. She touches Kennedy's tummy- "Take care of mom-" she whispers and then she kisses her again before she turns to go.

Kennedy watches her leave, she feels a hand on her shoulder and turns to see Dawn and Faith there. Faith speaks, "Time to get things set here-you ready?"

Kennedy starts to answer but before she can she is hit with a sharp pain, different from the ones before. "Ah-" she covers, "Sure-let's do this." She moves out of their sight as she leans against the wall and begins her breathing exercise. "Not now Emilee-" she whispers to the child. Her hand rests on her stomach as the pain doesn't let up.

Inside the warehouse Vlad stands surrounded by vampires and their terrified prisoners. He smiles a menacing smile-evil and demented as a large vat of blood is lowered into the circle from the ceiling.

"Excellent," says Travers as he watches the man move to the small platform.

Vlad waits there until the vat reaches the ground. He looks to those who encircle him, "Wait for the words then begin." He levitates above the blood and slowly begins to lower himself into it.

Outside the Slayers and Scoobies watch-waiting for the right time to enter. "Now!" Orders the blonde Slayer as the chanting starts inside. They go in force through the door.

As they enter Willow begins to chant as well. A ball of fire appears in her hand and she hurls it at the nearest vampire. He is instantly incinerated.

Travers looks toward the blonde and she looks startled as she watches him morph into game face. He starts to bite the struggling woman in his grasp. Buffy rushes toward him but the circle is protected by other vampires whose mission seems to be simply-protect the inner core. The fighting begins but the outside ring can't be breeched.

Vlad's chanting becomes louder and he starts to slowly transform into the demon. Willow sees this and yells, "Buffy!"

The oldest Slayer looks her way and nods, "You're up Wills-show him what you got."

The redheaded witch takes a deep breath and focuses her energies. She tries to encircle the man in a force field to stop the demon from emerging. However, his magic is able to break through and the change continues. Soon, a full fledged Dragon rises from the crimson pool ready to claim the others as his own.

Frustrated Willow chants yet another spell- she thinks to herself, 'You may have power, but you're not as smart as I am.' She smirks and chants yet another spell. This one encases the vampires and then the intended sacrifices-separating them. "No blood-no charging." She smiles at her own quick thinking. "What are you gonna do now?" Her words are a bit cocky-more Kennedy than Willow-she thinks about her girl. She catches herself and refocuses on the task at hand-her energy holding both barriers.

Meanwhile, at the house the Slayers have set up a barrier of their own. Kennedy stands with her back to the basement stairs and the Slayers surround her. The young mother-to-be looks around her and her eyes meet Faith's before they settle on the group, "Guys don't you think this is a little- well, much?"

"Just doing our job," states Rona.

"And I appreciate it I do-but I am a Slayer."

"True," says Dawn, "But Buffy said protect, so we're protecting."

"She's right," Faith continues, "Then there's Willow-nobody here wants Red pissed at'em- they've heard the black eyes story too."

Vi states, "She was able to fight Buffy and she-"

"Well she didn't actually," starts Dawn, "But she would have if Giles hadn't shown up."

"Fine-be scared of Will not me-" she pouts.

"We're scared of you too Jr.-" teases Faith, "well-no-we're not."

Kennedy glares then rolls her eyes as the younger Slayers giggle. "Okay have it your way, but can I at least go downstairs?"

"No way in from down there," informs Rona.

"I don't know-" Faith starts.

"I really need to not be standing right now," she stops not wanting to explain her current problem.

Dawn looks concerned, "Is something wrong?"

"Wrong?-No," the young Slayer answers.

Dawn looks to Faith, "She should probably rest."

Faith nods, "Okay but Dawn's going with you."

Kennedy starts for the stairs after opening the door and Dawn follows. The teen however stops and the top of the stairs and turns to her Slayer. Her eyes meet Faith's, "Go on," the once rogue Slayer says. "It's 5X5," she winks. Dawn smiles slightly and nods before going down the stairs. Faith closes the door and looks at the Slayers in front of her. "Our job is to keep her and the baby safe. This is what I want, we're gonna fan out into groups and flank the area." She looks around at the girls and continues. "I'll post outside her room. Rona and Vi-you're at the bottom of the stairs." They nod and move to get weapons and then return. "Kristin-"

"Yeah Captain," she says as she steps forward.

"You've got the group at the top of the stairs. They don't get by you, understand?"

"Won't let it happen," assures the teen.

Faith turns to Shannon, "You have the next line-post your group at the kitchen door." The girl nods. "Axes and crossbows-don't pull any punches."

"Give everything we got." She looks at her group, "Let's weapon up." They move to the chest and gear up.

"Madison-front hall side," the young Slayer nods as she and her charges move to the assigned area already with weapons in hand.

Faith looks over the group of about 20 young Slayers, "Stay tight-help each other out-" she advises.

"You got it," says Madison.

Faith looks back at them as she reaches the door leading down stairs. "This is the most important mission you'll ever have," they look at her unsure. "Nothing gets to the baby no matter what."

"You can count on us."

"I know I can," she looks at them and then goes down the stairs. Roma and Vi follow her and then the door closes.

Rona asks as they continue down, "You really think all of this is necessary?"

"I know it is," states Faith worry creeps into her eyes and before she can mask it Vi sees.

"What aren't you telling us?" Asks the redheaded Slayer.

Faith shakes her head, "Just do you job."

The young Slayers stop at the bottom of the stairs, "We will-not getting the kid on my watch," says Rona.

Faith continues down the hall to the bedroom door. She knocks and looks inside, "How's the nap?" Dawn looks up at her-her eyes full of worry and fear as she looks back at Kennedy. The young mother-to-be is struggling to breath through a contraction. "Oh hell no!-This is a joke right?" The once rogue Slayer looks from one to the other.

"So not joking," assures Dawn, panic creeping into her voice.

"Un-freaking-believable," Faith shakes her head. Kennedy rolls her eyes at them.

Back at the warehouse the witch still holds the vampires from their prey-the only thing stopping their transformation to Day Walkers. The frustrated Dragon turns his sights on the redhead just as Buffy breaks through the line of demons. She glares up at the creature with an axe in hand. Xander and Giles follow close behind along with a few Slayers. Willow sees the movement and realizes they are in trouble-they are no match for the Dragon's power. 'Buffy get outta there.'

'I gotta stop him Wills.'

'Leave him to me,' the witch continues.

The Dragon sends Xander flying through the air. He lands against the wall with a loud thud. "Xander!" Buffy screams. 'Willow-'

'He's okay-just shaken up-he said no worries.'

Willow watches as the blonde Slayer rushes the others away from the circle. 'All yours my friend. Be careful.'

The witch sends a final message, 'I'm gonna drop the barrier I need the power-I can't hold all three-just when it goes down get the people out.'

'Got you-be careful,' says Buffy.

'Plan to-' says the redhead. She speaks in Latin, " Expedio." The barrier falls and the young Slayers lead them towards the door fighting vampires as they go. Arrows fly and vamps dust-as the Dragon and Travers both shout out their rage.

"Stop them you fools, they are ruining everything!" Travers orders.

"Incente," mutters the witch as flame after flame appears in her hand and she throws them at the vampires. The creatures cry out and then turn to ash.

However, the redhead finds herself pinned to the ground as she cries out in pain. 'Buffy!' She sends mentally as the Dragon approaches her and she can not move.

'Wills?'

'I got a problem here.'

Through the crowd of vamps Buffy sees her friend and the Dragon moving towards her. She grabs an axe from a young Slayer and runs towards them.

At the house vampires are fighting along both fronts. As they battle dust flies though it takes more time and effort. A couple of Slayers fall and the Day Walkers that remain break through the first line of protection. Kristin's group stands ready to face the twelve or fifteen that survive. "You sure you wanna do this," she addresses the group. "You should probably step back," they growl. "I'm just saying-" she hits the closest one in the face. As the fighting begins again her quips continue.

In Kennedy and Willow's room Faith and Dawn stand at the door talking quietly. "We need to call the midwife," says Dawn.

"And we get her in through the vamps how-not to mention the explaining." Faith replies.

Dawn looks at her Slayer and knows she is right on both points. "Okay-we'll just-there's lots of time right?"

"Like I know?" Faith half smiles as there eyes meet.

"Babies take forever-lots of labor, so you just kill all the badies and then we'll get her to the hospital."

"See now that's a plan-very doable." She leans in and kisses Dawn's lips.

They pull apart and look to Kennedy as she cries out, "Guys not so much time-" she informs and Dawn moves to her side. "Something you should know." She pants as the contraction intensifies.

"What's that?" Faith asks from the door.

Kennedy continues to breath though the pain as Dawn strokes her arm nervously trying to help in some way. When the contraction ends about 30 seconds later, the young Slayer composes herself and speaks, "I think this started last night."

"Last night?" Dawn's voice is squeaky.

"Why the hell you waiting till now to say something?" Faith asks.

"Wasn't sure what it was-thought it was the Braxton Hicks things."

"But it wasn't?" Asks Dawn.

"Don't think so-the contractions are getting really close." Her breathing quickens as if proving her point another contraction starts.

"Another one?" Asks Faith. Kennedy nods as she breaths through the pain. Faith looks at Dawn but before she can speak she hears fighting at the top of the stairs. "I need-they need me out there."

Dawn nods her understanding and fights what she wants to say. She simply thinks, 'I need you in here too.' "Go," she says. "Be careful."

"I will," she kisses her again and leaves.

In the living room of the witch and the Slayer Faith finds Rona, Vi, and Kristin fighting off 5 Day Walkers. She joins the fray.

At the warehouse the Dragon shoots a bolt of energy at the redhead but she is able to deflect it away. She begins to meditate and channel her energy into a single incantation. She can feel the power mounting inside her and she struggles to stay in control. She can feel the familiar tingle and she begins to speak. Her words are terse-precise as she stares at the Dragon. It is mere inches from her as it reaches and picks her up in its claws. She fights the pain and continues the plan. Buffy arrives and realizes she can be of no help it is up to Willow now.

The witch stares at the creature and speaks nervously, "Goddess, I hope my Romanian is better than my Latin." She begins to chant, "Expulza aceasta demon din aceasta localitate." The Dragon cries out but holds on tightly to her. She repeats louder-channeling yet more energy, "Expulza aceasta demon din aceasta localitate!" The air around them begins to swirl as the Dragon screams his anger. He throws Willow across the room and she lands hard against the wall. She shakes the dizziness away and raises a hand toward the Dragon and repeats the phrase again.

At the house the fighting is still raging as well. Rona and Vi are double teaming a Day Walker while Kristen and Faith battle their own.

In the bedroom not ten feet away Kennedy is trying to breath through the most intense contraction yet. "I-I can't do this-" she says her voice scared.

Dawn takes her hand and with her other she wipes the younger Slayer's face, "You can." She smiles, "You are, just a little longer."

"I need Willow-" she admits. "Please-I need Will-"

Dawn doesn't know what to say, her mind however has plans of its own as the redhead's name slips into her thoughts. 'Willow.'

Willow still chants from the floor, "Expulza demon-" she feels herself begin to slip her head spins. "Expulza din localitate-" as she starts to lose consciousness she hears Dawn.

'Willow-she needs you.'

The witch forces her eyes open, 'Dawnie-what's wrong?'

'The baby is coming.'

Willow can't help the smile that covers her face. She calls on her inner strength and forces herself to her feet with her arm out stretched she repeats the words but they are somehow different. "Expulza aceasta demon din aceasta localitate." Power flies from her hand and the Dragon is hit by it head on. It wails as the air around it swirls and then opens pulling it inside and closing around it.

The redhead collapses to the floor as Buffy runs to her along with Xander. "Wills?" She gathers her up in her arms. "You okay?"

"Buffy-" her eyes flutter opened. "Got to get to Kennedy-the baby-she's coming." Again a smile finds its way to her face.

Buffy looks around at the hordes of vampires still left. "Not gonna happen just yet-kinda still got work to do-but you rest-soon."

"Soon," repeats the redhead as her eyes close showing her total exhaustion. 'Soon,' she thinks and the word reaches Dawn.

'Now-teleport yourself here or you're gonna miss it,' is her answer.

Willow's eyes open and she tries to stand but can't. Xander grabs on to her. "Hey, thought we agreed on the resting?"

"Dawn says now-Xander I can't miss this." Her eyes plead with her friend.

"Buff-" the blonde Slayer stops and looks back at them. "No time to rest its gotta be now."

She rejoins them as the others fight. "Okay Will-how you wanna do it?"

"Teleporting is the only way-" she says.

"So what do you need from us?" Asks the blonde already knowing the answer.

"Ah-your -ah-energy." Her eyes look unsure.

"You got it," she stands beside her and touches Willow's shoulder. "Go see your baby," she smiles.

Willow hesitates knowing the drainage of her power will leave her defenseless and in danger. Xander sees her indecision and smiles. "It's okay I'll keep her safe," he pulls out both a stake and a torch.

Willow smiles and speaks, "I love you both." She places her hands on Buffy's chest and mutters softly. The blonde Slayer falls to the ground as Willow disappears.

Travers is instantly in front of them and though he and Xander fight the man is disarmed in seconds. Xander stands between his Slayer and the vampire. "I've waited for this-though it is a small consolation." He morphs into game face but before he can attack he turns to dust.

As it clears you see Giles with a stake in hand, "I've been waiting as well ole man." Buffy falls into Xander's arms. Soon the Slayers surround them and continue to fight.

At the house Faith is now fighting a vampire in the bedroom. Kristin, Vi and Rona battle in the living room against the one remaining there. Kennedy cries out as she tries to put off the inevitable. "You have to push," says Dawn.

"No-I need Willow-" she shakes her head.

"Push damn it," orders Dawn. "She needs you to do your job.-she's almost here."

Faith looks toward them and as she does the vampire knocks her to the floor. Willow is suddenly there and the she sees the vamp about to attack her girl. "Incente." Nothing happens, she is too weak.

As the vamp approaches them Kennedy looks to her girl who is on the floor. The creature steps closer but suddenly is gone. Faith stands behind it blood dripping down her face. "Go to hell," she mutters as the dust falls. She collapses against the bed. Dawn goes to her and helps her move to the chair across from the bed.

Willow moves to Kennedy's side and sits on the bed next to her. She struggles to stay up right. "Gotta push," says the young Slayer as Willow takes her hand. Her breathing quickens as another contraction takes place.

Dawn kisses her Slayer and moves back to the bed. She sits at the foot and checks the young mother-to-be. "Okay-" Kennedy begins to push as Dawn counts to ten. "Again," says the girl and again Kennedy pushes.

After the contraction stops Dawn looks at Kennedy and Willow they are both lying down, exhausted. Willow touches Kennedy's cheek with her hand, "Love you," she says softly. Kennedy smiles and takes her hand but the smile fades. "Another one?" Kennedy nods.

Dawn instructs her to push and counts when the babies head emerges, Kennedy cries out, "She's out-I can see her head," she smiles. Faith is suddenly at her side as she watches in wonder. Dawn carefully clears the cord and the baby's mouth as she then turns its head slightly like on the films they watched in Health class. "One more push," she says excitedly.

"Come on baby you can do it," says Willow as she kisses Kennedy's lips. Kennedy pushes and the baby slides the rest of the way out.

Dawn lays the little crying girl on Kennedy's stomach and smiles. "Wow," she says amazed. "She's really here." She looks to Faith and she leans in kissing her. Suddenly the room is filled with EMTs.

Later at the hospital Kennedy and Willow lie in bed with their daughter. The baby nurses contentedly while Willow traces her small hands and arms and face. "She's amazing, look what you did." She kisses Kennedy softly.

"What we did," she smiles. "And she's perfect." She touches her face as well. "Healthy-" a tear slips free. She presses her lips to her redhead's.

Emilee finishes eating and Kennedy removes her. She hands the baby to her mama. "Kenn-I" she starts nervously.

"Just rub her back," she helps Willow situate her on her shoulder. The redhead tentatively begins to burp her as Kennedy straightens her clothes. "See its easy," she smiles at her girls.

Willow relaxes and kisses her baby's head as she hears a soft burp. "That's mama's girl." She presses another kiss to her red hair and looks into her chocolate eyes. Kennedy smiles and snuggles closer to them.

Later when the gang quietly walks in they find them sleeping still cuddled together. The baby is cooing in their arms eyes wide open. The gang all smile. Faith moves closer and Dawn follows-Kennedy's eyes open and she is ready to protect, "Easy Jr-it's just us." Kennnedy relaxes and smiles at her friends.

"How's your head?"

"It's cool-" she smiles.

"So you wanna hold her?" Asks Kennedy as she watches Faith look nervously at the little girl.

"Me-ah-no-I don't-ah-" she looks at Dawn who smiles and lets her arms cross at her waist. Faith smiles at the wordless message. "I haven't-" she starts.

"It's easy," Kennedy says. Faith moves closer and Willow's eyes open as she feels the baby being moved. She smiles as she sees her in Faith's arms.

The baby wiggles and Dawn moves closer to her girlfriend. She stands next to her and helps her, "See-nothing to it." She smiles and whispers, "We so got this covered."

Faith without realizing it touches Dawn's stomach, "Yeah-" she smiles. "We do."

Xander catches the exchange and his eye gets huge. Willow, though tired, senses his thoughts and she can't help but smile.

Buffy oblivious as usual asks, "So did you decide on a middle name?"

Kennedy and Willow smile at each other and nod, "We did," smiles the new mother, "Emilee Dawn," she and Willow say together.

This story continues in LIFE Is Just What You MAKE It

Or Go Back To Part 4(Chapters 16-20)

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