Archive of Our Own

Check and Mate
Aadler
Copyright November 2008

Disclaimer: Characters from Buffy the Vampire Slayer are property of Joss Whedon, Mutant Enemy, Kuzui Enterprises, Sandollar Television, and the WB.

“Who knew?” Xander mused. “A white Slayer in Africa, much less a married one? Usually, they’re teenagers.”

She smiled. “Clearly I’m no teenager. And I’m … amply protected.”

Xander glanced toward her husband: massive, bronzed, eyes steady as a leopard’s. “I’m getting that. Okay: you’ve been informed, and don’t need help. I’ll tell them.”

When he had gone, she asked, “John, did this ‘Slayer awakening’ reach me because the Kavuru potion keeps me young?”

“Perhaps.” He shrugged. “Trouble has always found us. Now, you can fight.”

“Better,” she said, kissing him. “Now, I can keep up with you in the trees.”

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