Author Carroll Fox

Email address: parkin@wandererverse.com

Title: Vacation Files.

Copyrighted: February 2008

Category: Crossover

Rating: For Mature readers: Violence, Sexual Content, and Foul Language

Key Words: Buffy the Vampire Slayer/ X-Files/ Highlander/Magnum PI

Any characters whose names and descriptions used are the property of their original owners, and no copyright infringements in intended or meant.

No money can be made from this story. It can be distributed freely so long as it is kept in its entirety, with all notices and copyright information intact.

The character Steve St. Wolf belonged to Steve P. and was used with prior permission.

Home of Steven St. Wolf

Sunnydale Calif.

6:00 pm

Merlin paced back and forth, wearing a path in the floor before he glared at the pair as they sat on the couch in front of him. Meanwhile, his wife of more years than even he could count, sat in the over stuffed recliner watching with an amused look on her lovely face. Annoyed at her smug attitude, he turned to the pair of Immortals who’d caused him so much grief over the past few months.

“Steve, you have to take a break.” Merlin turned on his chief protector. “I told you that you needed a break in Europe. Now, I’m ordering it and I won’t take no for an answer.”

“Merlin,” The Immortal Demon Hunter said. “I just….”

“No, no, no!” Merlin snapped cutting Steve’s explanation off. “I have a platoon of knights that will patrol the Hellmouth while you and Buffy go on vacation.”

“Steve,” said Nemune, Merlin’s wife, who continued the discussion when she sensed that her husband was about to blow a gasket. “You have been at it non-stop for almost five years. Remember what you felt like seven years ago? And Buffy has been at it for the last three years. You both deserve a rest.”

Steve started to reply but he was cut off by Marc Le Chevalier. “It is true, my friend. You have not had a chance to relax in a very long time.”

Meanwhile, while all this was going on, Buffy Summers tried to stifle a guffaw.

“That is it!” Merlin announced. “I will have Frank charter a flight to Hawaii; the Grail owns a great hotel resort on Oahu, right on Waikiki. You both will be leaving first thing tomorrow. Pack your bags.”

“You tell him,” Buffy said.

“Buffy!” Steve cried out and had an injured look on his face.

“Come on, honey! We deserve a break.” Buffy smiled as she looked over to Merlin who nodded. “And Merlin just authorized Frank to arrange for our flight and he’s offering us what I can only imagine is a fine resort. No, I believe he ordered us to go.”

“Damn right,” Merlin said but his voice lost a bit of its bluster when he noticed the wicked grin on Buffy’s face. “Oh shit.”

“Since we were going to go to Hawaii on vacation anyway, why not accept Merlin’s generosity and have one on him?” Buffy finished with a satisfied smile. “You can save the money you were going to spend on us and we can go out and have a good time on your boss’ expense account. Hmm, I always wanted a free vacation.”

“What?!” Merlin cried out. Then he shook his head when he realized that Buffy had played him like a fiddle. “Steve, your young lady has been taking lessons from you I see.”

Buffy simply shrugged. “If you’re going to learn, learn from the best.”

Nemune burst out laughing at the way Buffy winked at Merlin after her last statement. Turning to Steve, she complemented him by saying, “Steven, your young lady is beginning to think on her feet.”

“Oh no, don’t blame me for that!” Steve snapped and held up his hands. “You should blame Xander and Methos! I swear those two are rubbing off on all of them.”

Sunnydale Airport

Iverson Terminal

24 hours later

The whole gang had gathered in front of the experimental Fox Jump Jet to wish the Immortal couple bon voyage. They gang had also promised that the Hellmouth would be safe until the two leaders of Section Seven had returned from their Hawaiian vacation.

“Merlin said he would have a few knights in the area to help out,” Steve said to the four couples that stood in front of him. He knew that any of the pairs by themselves could keep the death count down in Sunnydale while they were away. He also knew that they needed a clear Chain of Command to operate efficiently. “Cordelia I’m leaving you in charge; Willow you’re her second in command. The knights will make their presence known if and when you need them. Try not to count on them too much, though.”

“You two go and have a good time,” Cordelia replied with a grin. “And relax.”

“Have fun you two,” Rupert said as he hugged Buffy. “You both deserve this time off so remember to enjoy yourselves.”

“Get on the plane before you miss it,” Xander said as he shook Steve’s hand. “You two are wasting daylight!”

“Remember I want a bit more than just the token t-shirt.” Willow said as she took her turn to hug Buffy before she stepped back. “If you bring us back one of those “all I got was a lousy t-shirt” t-shirts, I’ll zap you back until you get it right.”

“Amen to that,” Amy agreed with a laugh.

Soon after, the gang watched in silence as their leaders boarded the jet and didn’t leave until it was nothing more than a dot in the sky.

###

Oahu: Hawaii Island.

Red Lion Club

Main St

Buffy pulled Steve onto the dance floor of the underground club, the music was beating a tune that Buffy felt was calling her to the dance floor, who else would she share it with than the man who had filled her dreams since they met. Her hips gyrated slowly capturing her paramour’s attention.

They were booked in the Waikiki Beach Marriott resort, for five nights and six days. They landed at the international airport where a limousine and chauffeur awaited them. A small token already arranged by Merlin. When they arrived at the resort a rental car would be available to them. Since this was a vacation Merlin made it impossible for them to carry anything more than their swords and a pistol, giving them that much was against Merlin’s better judgment but to leave the Slayer and the Immortal demon hunter weaponless was asking for trouble.

Their first day was spent getting settled in at the resort and checking out the car that was set up for them. Then after taking a shower they took a nap to allow the jet lag to leave their bodies. The trip over was twice as fast as a normal jet liner but still the combination of losing hours and being in a enclosed space for 3 hours caused them both to be sleepier than normal.

Now they were out bar hopping and dancing the night away, and Buffy loved every minute of it. She wondered how things were going with their friends on the Hellmouth but she knew that if they were getting too deep they would call.

“There’s a lot of Military types in here,” Buffy yelled over the music as she looked around the room. “Wonder if all the places are going to be like this.”

“Well it is the middle of the month, and there are like what two big bases on this island?” Steve replied as they left the floor.

“Military bases?” Buffy asked as she thought, “Oh Pearl Harbor is here, I know we are here to have fun, but can we go see that sunk boat?”

“The Arizona,” Steve informed her, “It’s a battle ship. There are a few other sites I would love to show you while we are here.”

“Like what?” Buffy asked teasingly as she rubbed up against him.

“The Hotel room can wait,” Steve grinned knowing what she was getting at. “Well besides the National park, there are a few Water falls you would love to see, also this place is full of natural sights that will stun you into silence.”

“Is that why you brought those two digital cameras?” Buffy asked as they left the bar heading down to another one where people were dancing outside. Seeing the people dancing outside Buffy went on wistfully, “That’s something you will never see at home.”

“Hey no home talks,” Steve said pulling Buffy into a hug. “Merlin wants us to take some time off and I agree with him, I was in that place and the only way to not go there again is to take a vacation every once in a while.”

The two went from one bar to the next having a wonderful time, both of them receiving their fair share from members of the opposite sex, Buffy even accepted the offer of a few dances from military men when Steve was too tired to perform on the dance floor. Later as the clubs started to close for the night, the happy couple started down the street toward their car.

“Shit,” Buffy said as she tripped over something almost causing her to lose her balance. Turning around to see what she tripped over Buffy’s heart fell when she saw a hand with a white-sleeved arm coming out of a small alley. “I though you said shit like this didn’t happen here?”

“Hell,” Steve agreed his mind racing toward the worse case scenario. His eyes darted around for anyone escaping from the area, while he pulled out his cell phone automatically dialing in a memorized number.

“Damn,” Buffy mumbled as she bent down over the girl automatically turning her head from side to side looking for the marks she was sure would be there. Not finding any she started to check for blood on the white uniform, still not finding anything she leaned back and studied the girl’s chest seeing it slowly raise and fall she took a breath of relief. Tapping the girl on the face with a open hand she called over her shoulder. “She’s just drunk Steve. Come on girl, time to wake up.”

Buffy tried it four more times before she looked up to Steve. “This girl is dead drunk.”

“Maybe we should take her to the base,” Steve said looking down at the girl, “Wonder why she is out here alone, I thought most of the CO’s promote the buddy system, where a more experienced soldier takes a rookie under their wing.”

“Maybe they left her.” Buffy guessed. “Will she get into trouble if we returned her to the base?”

“No, they will just put her on a drunk watch.” Steve replied smiling at Buffy’s concern. “Come on lets get her up and to the base.”

“Do you know where the base is?” Buffy asked as she helped Steve pick the girl up.

“I am pretty sure we can find it, there should be signs all over the place.” Steve replied, “Tomorrow we we’ll grab a map of the island.”

As Steve followed the signs to Pearl Harbor Naval station, Buffy was looking over their passenger, she was about 5’ 6” with short light brown hair, and her body was in pretty good physical shape. Her muscular thighs were easily shown from beneath her uniform skirt. Looking down Buffy noticed that the girl did not have shoes on. Her uniform top was buttoned up and only a small corner of it was pulled out from under her skirt. The girl was just drunk; she didn’t think anything out of the ordinary happed to her.

###

Main Gate

Pearl Harbor Naval Station

Oahu, Hi.

As they pulled up to the main gate of Pearl Harbor Steve’s eyes were pulled toward the threat indicator, which read level two. A quick smile played across his face as he remembered his days in the service, rarely was that indicator under three. It seemed to him that the Navy was just a bit more relaxed when it came to those things.

“Excuse me, sir,” Steve called out his window to the guard that manned the small shack after having pulled into the visitor parking lot knowing that the welcome center would be closed for the night. “I’m returning a Sailor to you after a strong night of partying.”

“Please hold one minute sir,” the Guard called back before he ducked into the small shack emerging a few minutes later, “I have a unit on the way.”

Waving his hand in response Steve then turned back to where Buffy was sitting with the girl in the back seat. “Is she ok?”

“Yea, I don’t see any signs of abuse, girl just drank too much.”

“Here comes her ride.” Steve replied as a MP car pulled up along side them.

“Good morning sir,” a female MP greeted as she pulled up beside Steve’s car. “Is there a problem?”

“No, no problem,” Steve replied as Buffy opened the rear door. “We have a sailor who drank a little too much.”

“Thank you for returning her sir.” The MP replied as her partner moved around to the passenger side of Steve’s car to get the girl. “Mind if I get some information from you?”

“Not a problem,” Steve said as he accepted the pad and quickly wrote down his information.

“Thank you for your help sir.” The second MP said as he carefully placed the drunken girl in the back seat of the patrol car.

“Sir, did she happen to have a purse?” the female officer asked when the girl was secure in the back seat.

“No, we didn’t find anything near her.” Buffy replied as she climbed into the front seat.

“Thank you again,” The officer replied getting into the car. “You would be surprised at how many people would have just left her there.”

“Well have a good night,” Steve said as he started the car and drove away.

“Wow the way she said that you would think it happens all the time.” Buffy said as they headed back to the resort.

“Probably do,” Steve laughed thinking back to his own early military days.

###

Waikiki Beach Marriott resort

Next morning

“This could be addicting.” Buffy yawned as she stretched in bed as the sun bore down into her face from where it came through the large picture windows next to the bed.

“Who are you kidding?” Steve asked coming out of the shower, “Place like this would make you fat and lazy in a month.”

“But I would be happy.” Buffy laughed as she rolled out of bed. “What’s the plan for today?”

“Want to check out the Arizona Memorial?” Steve asked as he put on a shirt. “Or go over to the North Shore and try that surfing thing?”

“Actually it might be boring, but I would really like to see the Memorial.” Buffy said surprising Steve.

“Ok which one are you?” Steve balked looking at Buffy. “My Buffy would rather have hot coals poured over her than see something educational on vacation.”

“Come on,” Buffy exclaimed in a hurtful voice “I have heard about the Memorial forever, it would seem a shame not to see it while we’re here. Besides Giles would kill me if I didn’t see it.”

“So it’s not something you want to do right?” Steve asked his voice carrying the puzzlement he felt.

“To be honest it would not be my first choice,” Buffy admitted, “But I have heard a lot about the place, so it might be nice to see.”

“Well the tourist guide says the Memorial will last about two hours, beginning with a fifteen minute movie showing what it looked like just before the bombing, and just after.” Steve said reading a small booklet. “So if we do take it this morning we should be out and seeing more of the island before noon.”

“Works for me,” Buffy said walking into the bathroom. “I will be out in a few minutes.”

Looking at the small clock on the table Steve smiled, wondering if she realized that it was only 7 am. Moving to the door he called out. “I am going to get some coffee, I will be back.”

###

“Mr. St Wolf?” a voice called out with more than just a little surprise. “What are you doing here?”

Turning to the sound of the voice Steve smiled when he saw an old acquaintance. Standing 6’ 2” with dark brown hair and dark brown eyes medium built, Thomas Magnum was in the height of physical condition. Next to him was a heavily built black man with a ball cap turned backwards on his head. Recognizing the speaker Steve smiled as he advanced on the pair reaching out with his hand he replied. “My lady and I are on vacation, brochure said 6 days and 7 nights of paradise, guess they didn’t know about you huh Tom?”

“Wisenheimer,” Tom replied as he shook Steve’s offered hand. “You have a wife?”

“Just dating” Steve replied as he walked with the men over to the coffee shop. “How are things with you?”

“Not a lot, are you going to stop by the nest and see Higgins?” Tom asked taking a quick glance around he lowered his voice before adding. “Rachael said you were busy a few months back in LA.”

“Nothing to talk about.” Steve waved the comment off.

“She also said that your Lady was something else.” Tom went on fishing for information, handing Steve a card he added. “Why don’t you bring her around for dinner while you’re in town?”

“We can do that.” Steve replied as he accepted the card. “I knew you lived on the Islands but I figured you to live on the large one.”

“Steve, this is TC he runs a helicopter tour,” Tom introduced the man standing next to him. “Go ahead and give him your card TC.”

“Sure call me,” TC said giving Steve his card before going on. “Sorry to make this a short visit but we have to get going Tom.”

“Something I can help with?” Steve asked catching the anxiousness in TC’s voice.

“Just a side job,” Tom waved off the offer. “Enjoy your vacation.”

Collecting two cups of coffee and a couple of croissants Steve excused himself and carried the items back up to the room where Buffy was waiting.

###

Buffy was just coming out of the bathroom dressed in black slacks and a light blue short sleeve blouse her blond hair falling down over her shoulders and down her back, a digital camera hanging off her shoulder. She placed the camera back on the table when Steve entered the room with the coffee and croissants. Accepting the coffee she watched as he tossed two cards down on the table. “What’s that, and why did it take you so long?”

“Ran into an old friend,” Steve replied mysteriously, “we have been invited to dinner, also met a guy who gives helicopter tours of the islands.”

“That sounds fun,” Buffy said as she took a look out the picture window that faced the Pacific Ocean and the beach. “I would like to do that.”

“So what is with the camera?” Steve asked as he checked the battery level on the camera seeing it was full he went on, “what’s on the schedule for today?”

“I still wanna see that boat.”

“It’s a battleship.”

“What’s the difference?”

“You’ll see.” Steve said with a smile finishing his coffee. “When ever you’re ready my lady.”

###

Arizona Memorial

8:30 am

“Think about how much work that must have been involved creating these before and after replica’s of Pearl Harbor.” Steve said as they made their way through the museum before entering the auditorium to see the movie before actually going out to the Arizona Memorial itself.

“This is fantastic,” Buffy replied before stopping herself as she looked over the cases that had the before and after looks of Pearl Harbor and the battle ships that were caught in port when the Japanese attacked. “Is this how much damage was done on that morning?”

“Not as much that was caused to Hiroshima, where I am told a similar museum shows the damage there.” Steve replied quietly as they were ushered into the auditorium.

“It’s true,” a man in a dress uniform informed the young pair. “The Hiroshima museum is about twice the size of this one showing what Hiroshima and the surrounding area looked like before and after the bombs was dropped. Like this one it is both beautiful and disturbing.”

“You sound like a man who has been there,” Steve said as he turned to the man who was talking. He was 5’9” with brown hair and brown eyes; his hair was short but well kept. He was not a big guy; his body while in shape was not overly impressive. Looking at his insignia Steve noticed the man was a Lt. Commander.

“I’ve seen it a few times.” The Lt. Commander replied. “Being in the Navy and on a ship you get around.”

“Bet,” Steve smiled knowing the man was fishing for interests in the navy.

###

After the trip through the memorial, Buffy sat quietly in the passenger’s seat tears running down her cheeks. Sniffling she wiped her nose as she sat back in the seat. When she spoke, her words were thick with emotions. “I can’t believe how many died in that short of time.”

“I didn’t think it would affect you like this.” Steve spoke quietly next to her.

“You mean you weren’t affected by it?” Buffy asked wiping her eyes.

“Yes I was affected,” Steve, said in a low voice, “I am affected every time I see a list of names of people who died giving their lives for a greater cause.”

“Where to now?” Buffy asked wiping her eyes for the last time. “I wanna see something, I don’t know… fun.”

“Fun coming up,” Steve smiled as he looked at a map.

“Works for me,” Buffy smiled as they left the Arizona Memorial parking lot headed north on the highway.

Driving along the highway they both enjoyed the sights of the Hawaiian shoreline; the coves were beautiful, but filled with people who were out enjoying themselves while they were on vacation. Reaching Lanikai the pair pulled over onto the beach that didn’t appear to be too crowded. Taking Buffy’s hand he lead her down to the beach. The sun was beating down on them and Buffy was looking over to the changing rooms. Pulling Steve along she was anxious to get changed in her bathing suit. This was their first vacation together and she was determined to have a good time.

Coming out of the dressing room Buffy was wearing a two piece string bikini that would have definitely seen her mother go into cardiac arrest and had the cops running her in for indecent exposure, but it would be the women police because no guys on the beach patrol would be unable to stop staring at her long enough to make the arrest. On the Hawaii beach however it was just the run of the mill. Still it had the desired effect on her man.

“Wow,” it was the only thing that Steve could say when they both came out of the dressing rooms; he looked down at his own “town and country” shorts that were the rage at the beach that summer.

Buffy blushed at the effect that her bikini had on Steve. “Wow look at that”, she said, pointing at a surfer who just whipped out. “That guy got some serious air, too bad his board went the other way.”

Looking out at the surfers then over to the life guard who was standing up Steve started to say something when the surfer came back up his board actually going against the current to go to him. When he saw the surfer grab the board, Steve took another look over to the lifeguard who was even now relaxing as he saw the surfer was ok.

“He must be using a tether line,” Steve guessed as he watched the surfer head back out for another ride. “Think you would like to try that?”

“What, the wipe out?” Buffy asked jokingly, “No I think I would much rather just sunbathe here on the beach. I am going home with a tan.”

“Surfing could be fun,” Steve said though his heart was not in it. Seeing some of the better Surfers still flying with their feet over their heads did not look at all pleasant. “On the other hand, something about keeping my feet below my head is comforting.”

//This is the life,// Buffy thought as she laughed at Steve’s last comment, leaning back she let the Hawaiian sun do its work on her skin, her eyes scanned the beach for potential danger, picking out the bigger guys who might start fights with the weaker ones just because they were on the beach. Not seeing anything like that she scanned the base of the water line checking to make sure that nothing was in the water that should not have been. Finally she realized what she was doing and closed her eyes tight. //Damn it, you’re on vacation.//

The two lovers stayed on the beach till the sun was casting its rays toward the east. Buffy with the help of Coppertone had started a very deep tan, while Steve had discovered the wonderful world of body surfing, a few kids had shown him the basics then fell back and laughed as they watched the man drink more water than was healthy.

Coming out of the water just as Buffy was standing up brushing the sand off her legs and body, Steve paused in his step as it seemed to him time slowed while she shook out her hair. Steve smiled as he noticed a couple other guys watching her, their jaws dropping just a bit. Steve was not a jealous man and he knew that Buffy loved him. However, that didn’t stop men from making snide remarks that neither he nor Buffy could deal with properly. It was simply too dangerous; both he and Buffy were too highly trained in their line of work. So they shied away from physical confrontations with the average person.

Moving in, Steve slipped his arm around Buffy’s waist ignoring looks that came his way from a few of the guys on the beach. As they moved up to where he parked the car, Steve kissed the top of Buffy’s head before he asked, “Where you want to go tonight?”

“Let’s see the rest of the clubs on that street tonight,” Buffy said a bit too innocently. “We missed about four clubs.”

“Same street, huh?” Steve asked smiling down with Buffy. “Want to go and change first?”

“Course, I got the perfect outfit for tonight.” Buffy said with a smile, “Picked it up at the surf shop while we were shopping.”

“Well this should be fun,” Steve smiled as they walked into their room.

“Going to take a shower,” Buffy called as she made her way into the bathroom. “Why don’t you pick something out to go dancing in tonight?”

###

Polynesian Restaurant

Inside.

“This is great food,” Buffy said around a mouthful of Palm Grove Papaya Salad. “Wonder if we could get the recipe for it.”

Steve leaned back watching Buffy enjoy her meal as he worked on his Polynesian Pork Chops. It was a rare occasion that the two of them were able to eat at a place as nice as this without being in a rush for something. As he took another bite of his Pork Chop he said. “Even if we did, who would fix it?”

“You could invite Casey down for a vacation.” Buffy replied innocently.

“I am not sure he would consider coming to Sunnydale a vacation.” Steve said as he finished his meal. “Are you ready?”

“Certainly kind sir,” Buffy replied with a smile as she took his hand and rose from the table. “Where to now?”

“Promised you a night on the town lets go dancing.” Steve replied with a grin.

“You sure you can keep up with me tonight?” Buffy giggled as they walked out the door. As they moved down the street, Buffy faltered as she looked toward the sunset. The sun had painted the sky a reddish gold in strokes that reminded her of a paintbrush but no brush could make the colors so alive. Next to her Steve paused as he followed her sight and sighed. “My god, that is beautiful.”

“Red skies at night sailors delight.” Steve recited the first part of an old saying while standing next to Buffy letting his hand slip around her back pulling her close.

“I have lived near the beach most of my life,” Buffy told Steve her voice soft. “But I have never seen a sunset as beautiful as that.”

“I am sure the smog had something to do with that.” Steve laughed.

“You never know what you miss till you see it huh?” Buffy asked.

“California was not always like that, back in the early 70’s it was almost as clear as it is here.” Steve said his voice soft as they watched the end of the sunset. As the colors left the sky Buffy turned to Steve and leaned her head back for a kiss that Steve was coming in for. “Let us go trip the night fantastic.”

“Huh?” Buffy asked.

“Showing my age,” Steve laughed. “Let’s go dancing.”

“Cool,” Buffy replied as they entered the nearest bar, entering they were both assaulted by the smoke and the loud dance music that pounded the room. Not one to need drink to dance, Buffy led Steve straight to the floor and was soon joined by a young woman who wore a military uniform. At first Buffy was annoyed by this attack on her territory but it quickly turned into a sort of challenge when she saw how smoothly the new woman could move and how she complemented both hers and Steve’s way of dancing.

“You two move like water,” the woman said by way of introduction as the music died down and the singer of the band made the announcement of taking a ten minute break. “Doesn’t hurt that the band is better than most in this area.”

“Name’s Steve, this is Buffy.” Steve introduced, “You are a very fluent dancer yourself.”

“Thank you,” the young woman replied, “My name is Silvia, just out having a good time. I saw you pick up the airman last night and knew you took her home safely, so I figured I would hook up with you and repay your kindness.”

“Kindness had nothing to do with what we did last night,” Buffy replied stepping into the conversation. “We did what we felt was necessary. If you saw it all, why didn’t you try to help her before we got there?”

“I didn’t know she was in trouble until I saw her being loaded into your car.” Silvia said, “I just wanted to know if I could show you around while you’re here on the island.”

“Would be a lot easier than stumbling around using a map.” Steve said with a smile.

“Map’s don’t show all the good spots,” Buffy went on warming up to the idea.

“What time can you start tomorrow?” Steve asked.

“I am on sort of a vacation till Wednesday.” Silvia replied with a smile. “I am coming up to 3 years with no vacation, so I have 90 days on the books its use or lose time.”

“Well if you don’t mind spending some of that time with strangers you are most welcome to show us around.” Steve said with a smile, “Where are you staying?”

“In my barracks on Ford Island.”

“I’m sure my honey can get you a room where we are staying,” Buffy said with a smile as she looked at Steve. “It would be easier if she stayed with us, that way we would not have to go pick her up.”

“Shouldn’t be a problem,” Steve replied as he pulled out his cell phone. “It’s off season so we should be able to get a room without too much trouble.”

“Let him deal with that,” Buffy told the girl as she started going up to the bar. “Lets go get something to drink.”

“Buffy I should tell you up front that I don’t have the kind of money it would take to live downtown in a motel.” Silvia almost whispered. “I send most of my money back home to my folks, only keep enough back to go dancing 2 weekends a month.”

Accepting the three drinks and paying for them Buffy pushed one of the drinks to her while saying, “Don’t worry about that, it’s the least we could do with you spending some of your vacation time and showing us the island. This kind of works out for both parties.”

“Alright deal,” Silvia replied as she accepted the drink. “So where are we staying?”

“The Waikiki Beach Marriott resort 4th floor.” Buffy replied as they made their way back to where Steve was just hanging up the phone. Handing the second drink to her man, she turned back to Silvia who had stopped walking. “Is there a problem?”

“The Marriott resort is one of the most expensive hotels on the beach.” Silvia whispered, “I can’t let you get me a room there.”

“Already done,” Steve said having heard the girl’s protest; “it’s across the hall from ours the key will be waiting for you at the front desk. If you would like, we can go and pick you up with some of your clothes tomorrow.”

“You two on the level? I mean no strings attached cause I don’t play that way.” Silvia asked a little suspicion in her voice.

“Don’t worry Silvia we are both on the level,” Buffy laughed as she began to understand what the girl was saying. “You offered to show us around and we are accepting your kind offer but we can not let you do it for free and spend your vacation time so here’s the deal. What you say?”

“You two don’t play around, in three or four minutes you accept my offer as guide and put me up, all without knowing me.” Silvia said with wonder in her voice. “What makes you think I am not here to rip you off?”

“We don’t.” Steve replied, as he looked the girl over a second time. “But you wear the uniform and well, you can’t be all that bad.”

“I wish,” Silvia, whispered to herself as she took a seat with the couple. “Any ideas on what you want to see tomorrow?”

“We can talk about that tomorrow,” Buffy replied as she stood up and put her hand out for Steve, “Tonight we are dancing and having a good time.”

“Works for me,” Silvia replied as she scoped over the room seeing someone she stood up with the couple. “I see someone I owe a dance to, I will catch up with you by the end of the night.”

“Come on old man,” Buffy said playfully as she pulled Steve up on the floor. “Lets dance.”

The night progressed with out any more interruptions, as the couple spent the evening dancing and just having a good time with each other.

At the end of the night, the wayward couple found Silvia a bit tipsy sitting at a table with two men equally tipsy but not so tipsy that they were unable to force their attention on Silvia. Moving up to the table Buffy noticed Silvia pushing one of the men’s arm away from her in a playful slap but could see that Silvia looked a bit uncomfortable.

###

Robins Nest

A few hours earlier

“Hey Higgins,” Tom called out as he entered the mansion on the east side of the Island. Seeing Rachael sitting on the couch he went on, “You’re never going to believe who I saw down at the resort.”

“Who?” Higgins asked as he came in from the back room with a book in his hands dressed in a robe. “Magnum must you always wear those dirty shoes in the house?”

“Sorry Higgins,” Thomas Magnum replied as he looked down at his partly muddy shoes. “Was kind of excited by the news I’m bringing in.”

“Well what is it?” Higgins asked as he took his seat getting comfortable as he opened his book before going on. “What news do you have from the beach?”

A knowing smile crossed Thomas’s face, as he looked first at Higgins stuffiness’ then to Rachael’s who was looking over her notebook probably working on a story before dropping a name he knew both of them would perk up to. “Actually they passed along their hello’s.”

“Who did?” Higgins asked in a huff as he put down his book knowing that Thomas would play this as long as it would take to get their attention. “Who did you meet Thomas?”

“I was with TC, and we were at the Waikiki Beach Marriott resort working on a case when we bumped into… St. Wolf.”

At the name Rachael dropped her pen and Higgins actually dropped his book. As the name like a powerful scent threw them both into memories of both the recent past and distant past, each of them thinking the same thing but neither of them could put their fears to words.

“Don’t worry he is not on a case,” Thomas said as he saw their reaction and read them correctly. “He told me they were just here for vacation.”

“Unfortunately that is exactly what someone in his line of business would say.” Rachael said as she stood up picking up her pen. “I wonder what he is really here for.”

“He might be here for vacation,” Higgins said, steepling his fingers. “You yourself told me that the situation in LA was pretty hectic he might just want some down time.”

“That was over eight months ago, wouldn’t he have already had that down time?” Thomas said getting curious. “I did invite him to dinner, or better I gave him your phone and address, maybe he will call tomorrow.”

“Maybe I should call him and see what he is really here for,” Rachael said as she started to get up.

“Sit down,” Higgins ordered looking at his daughter in-law, turning on the TV he went on. “If they are here for vacation they deserve it, and if they aren’t we will know soon enough.”

“I helped TC find his niece, she was just down at the beach having a good time. No big mystery there.” Thomas said as he sat down. “Just a college student who wanted to get away from the parents for a weekend.”

“Are we just going to wait here, and hope he calls?” Rachael asked as she sat back knowing better than argue with her father in law.

“He will at least call,” Higgins said finishing the discussion, “From what I have learned talking to the man he is at least honorable and his upbringing would demand him to at least come by and say hello.”

“I hope you’re right, I don’t think Detective Machado could handle the shit storm he normally chases.”

###

Waikiki Beach Marriott resort

04:30 AM

“Good morning honey,” Steve greeted Buffy as she exited the restroom with her hair still wrapped in a towel while she wore a hotel robe. “You’re up awful early.”

“Hey we have a guide, might as well use it she could show us the far side of the island first,” Buffy said.

“Honey, the whole island is only about 50 miles wide. I’ve heard people say they ride around the island on bikes in the morning. So I think we could get a couple of hours sleep in before we go out and explore.”

“Well if you’re going to get a bit more sleep, I am going out and run a few miles to start the day.” Buffy replied as she pulled out a pair of running shorts. “Be back in an hour.”

“Hold on I will run with you, then we can come back and take a shower before we go out to explore the island.” Steve said dropping out of bed and executing twenty-five push-ups before he threw on a pair of shorts and running shoes. “How many miles you want to try for?”

“Down to the boardwalk and back,” Buffy replied opening the door. “That should be close to five miles, long enough to stretch our legs and keep us limber.”

“Hey hold that elevator,” Buffy called to Silvia who was dressed in a work out outfit. “Where you going?”

“Out for a run, I would be back before six am to show you around.” Silvia replied after the pair joined her in the elevator, “Most places won’t open until eight or nine.”

“What is your MOS?” Steve asked noticing her legs were well toned as was her arms.

“I work in security,” Silvia replied hedging the question. “You served?”

“For a few years several years ago,” Steve said.

“Would you mind if I asked what your MOS was?” Silvia asked taking a better look at the man in front of her.

“I worked with the 5^th special forces” Steve replied honestly.

“Franklin’s outfit huh?” Silvia asked almost too innocently.

“You know Franklin isn’t part of the 5^th he runs the 82^nd. Who spotted us and set you on us?” Steve asked also keeping his tone friendly. “And what are your orders?”

“I was told you were sharp,” Silvia replied after a moment exhaling knowing she was caught and from previous debriefing about this man knew it would be stupid to lie to him. “Captain Simmons saw you in a video stream from when you returned the airman the other night. Simmons served with you in Northern Ireland.”

“What are your orders?” Steve asked again patiently

“Just to observe and find out what you are doing here.” Silvia replied honestly. “He was concerned that you were working a case, and wanted to know what kind of case you were working on.”

“We are actually here to relax,” Buffy informed Silvia, “You said this Simmons has reason to believe we might be here on a case, please let him know that since we got together it’s been one case after another. We’ve have told we can take a vacation and that is exactly what we are doing.”

“Would you still be willing to have me as a tourist guide?” Silvia asked with a small smile.

“Unquestionably, you would easily know more than Steve would and I would like to make sure I see all the sights while I am here.” Buffy said taking control of the conversation. Pulling out her cell phone she tossed it to Silvia before she went on. “Call your superior and let him know what is going on. He might wanna send someone else but we would know what to look for so tell him that it would be best to leave you on the case.”

“Thank you,” Silvia replied as she made the phone call allowing the pair to listen in to at least her part of the conversation. “Yes sir, He figured it out, No sir, she is going to allow me to continue to be their tour guide and that I could make my reports. Yes Sir I think they are on the level, they both said they were here for vacation. At twenty one hundred pm yes sir I will call you.”

Closing the phone Silvia flashed a quick smile to Buffy as she tossed her phone back to her. “Guess a career in Intel is out of the question huh?”

“Oh I don’t know, you probably would have gotten away with it with someone else, I just felt you were testing me when you said Franklin, and I pretty much go with my gut hunches.” Steve said, as he looked the woman over again. “So are you in Intel or security?”

“Kind of both, I work in Security but am called upon by both Navy and Air Force Intel when they want something to be ferreted out.”

“Are we the first to catch you?” Buffy asked as they rode the elevator down to the main floor.

“Yea, I knew I blew it when I tried to test Mr. St. Wolf, but I had to be sure he was telling me the truth.” Silvia replied.

“Your superior didn’t tell you what my back ground was?” Steve asked shock showing easily in his voice.

“He just told me to be careful, that you might or might not be involved in a black ops group that he has heard rumors of.”

“I think I would like to talk to this Simmons before I leave the island.” Steve said a harder chip in his voice.

“What is the matter honey?” Buffy asked as they left the elevator and worked their way to the main exit. Since meeting with Steve and consequently becoming his student she has accepted that they would be investigated many times by old friends of Steve. Why this one would cause Steve to go into such a funk was puzzling.

“He knew or suspected that I was in a black op group and he still sent this wet behind the ears teenager to investigate us. Might as well have put her up against a firing squad.”

“Damn if that’s so,” Buffy argued just before stepping off to a quick step. “He knew you would never hurt her.”

“Yea well, he probably should have come up to ask me what I was doing here.” Steve said keeping in step with Buffy but leaving Silvia behind, even though she was in the height of physical condition her daily workout was nowhere near theirs.

“Hey girl,” Buffy called back to Silvia, “Do we have to slow down so you can keep up?”

“What are you two machines?” Silvia whispered as she poured on a bit more power into her kicks, while it did shorten the distance between the two, it was not enough to keep her up with the young pair.

Slowing down a bit Buffy allowed Silvia to close the distance, without conscious thought Steve also slowed down soon the three of them were keeping pace without Silvia having to push too hard to keep up.

“Well we do this every morning; don’t worry though we promised that since we are on vacation we would only run eight miles instead of our normal twelve.” Buffy lightened the mood, seeing that Silvia was just beginning to catch her breath she went on. “We aren’t even wearing the packs.”

“Packs?” Silvia asked looking between the two without understanding.

“Work out packs, they take the place of a outfitting.” Steve informed the girl. “Our packs are between 40 and 50 pounds.”

“So you do belong to a military organization?” Silvia asked as they came to a stop at the end of a quick seven-mile run.

“I never said that,” Steve replied with a smile. “I just like to keep in shape, remember I was once in a very hard military outfit.”

###

“Just in case you need to check in, our itinerary is to do some shopping down on Waikiki, grabbing a quick bite to eat at a local place, probably some soup kitchen or salad bar.” Steve informed Silvia when they met up after taking a shower. “After that we will come back here drop off our stuff then go to the beach or some other landmark that you will show us, then to dinner.”

“It seems very much like someone on vacation,” Silvia said looking down at her note pad. Bringing out her own phone she made the call and noticed that Steve was on a phone of his own contacting someone else.

Buffy watched the exchange from the concierge desk where she was leaving her keys for their room and picking up a set of keys to a car they would be allowed to use while on the island.

###

“Hello Higgins,” Steve said as the Higgins private line stopped ringing and he could hear a grunt on the other end of the line. “It’s St Wolf.”

“Been expecting your call, are you in trouble yet?” Higgins asked only half jokingly. “Thomas told me he saw you in Waikiki last night.”

“Figured he would,” Steve replied with a dry voice. “Truth is I am here on vacation orders from higher up.”

“Would you like to bring your lady friend over tonight for dinner?” Higgins asked after a couple of seconds, “Rachael said she was someone I had to meet.”

“Well she is not someone you normally meet on the street, but she is nothing I would want to discuss over the phone either.” Steve replied, “What time would you like us there?”

“Let’s say six o’clock.” Higgins invited, “It will be good to see you again Steve.”

“Can you set a table for a third person?” Steve asked as an after thought. “It would appear that I have a very proficient guide while I am here.”

“Guide or escort?” Higgins asked guessing correctly.

“One and the same, See you then.” Steve replied before hanging up.

###

“Guess you’re doing the driving,” Buffy said as she tossed the keys to Silvia who was just finishing up her phone call. “If I know Steve and I do, he will be on the phone for a while. We might as well go get the car and bring it around front.”

“Ok,” Silvia replied as she caught the keys. “Do you mind answering a couple of questions?”

“If I can, sure,” Buffy said as they started to the underground parking lot.

“Why was Capt Simmons suddenly nervous when St. Wolf’s name is mentioned?” Silvia asked, “At first he said the man was dead, made a few phone calls then locked himself in the office for an hour. When he came out he was sort of a new man with a mission.”

“My honey affects his old friends that way.” Buffy smiled remembering a few other scenes that played out in front of her when a old friend of Steve’s came to visit.

“Don’t take this wrong,” Silvia started staring at Buffy. “But….”

“Let me guess, you wanna know how old I am.” Buffy guessed correctly.

“Yea,” Silvia replied puzzlement in her voice. “I mean if he and Capt Simmons worked together he has to be older than he looks, I would say he is in his early 40’s but I might be wrong he could be in his late 30’s.”

“I’m twenty four.” Buffy replied going with the story line that she and Steve worked out. They had even gotten her a driver’s license to go along with the story line.

“How did the two of you get involved?”

“Mom set us up, he was new in town and she wanted me to be his guide.” Buffy replied giving Silvia the short answer. “We’ve been semi-serious since then.”

“Semi-serious?”

“We are still in the starting stages. Only been about eight months.” She said as they stepped off the elevator and advanced toward the rented car. “What about you, anyone special?”

“You know men,” Silvia replied with a smile. “The one I am interested in is not sure about a relationship.”

“I know how that runs.” Buffy laughed, “Steve was the same way.”

“Looks like you put a rope on him.” Silvia smiled as they drove out of the parking area and around to the front of the building. “So what do you wanna see first?”

“We saw the Memorial yesterday, I’m sure that there are other sights historical in nature I mean.” Buffy stated after thinking a minute she continued. “Do you know where the hidden coves are, the beautiful countryside’s I mean?”

“I know where a few of them are,” Silvia replied after a few minutes. “The Zoo here is kind of different than the ones stateside if you want to go by there. Also there are a couple of waterfalls, but there are a few historical buildings down town, King Kamehameha, he was the king who Captain Cook met. Just wondering, are you going to do your whole vacation on this island?”

“That would be cool, Steve don’t know about it yet,” Buffy said as they pulled up to the front of the building. “But I wanna go over to the main island to see that active volcano.”

“That Volcano is active but it’s not hot right now, so it’s just a mountain with the hole on the top.” Silvia said puzzled by Buffy’s statement. “I don’t think it would be safe to go up there though, gasses are always escaping well that is what I am told about it anyway.”

“Steve was introduced to a man named TJ last night he is a helicopter pilot, maybe we can get him to fly us over it.” Buffy mused to herself. “You know just to look.”

“That would be safe enough.” Silvia replied as Steve joined them in the car. “Do you want to go to the shops down on the beach or one of the local malls, I have found that purchasing things at the local malls is about thirty percent cheaper than at the shops along the boardwalk, however the shops down at the boardwalk are more geared toward the tourist and it’s fun to listen to what they say. Generally the shops on the beach know more about the local hot and cold spots.”

“The beach,” Buffy voted. “That way we can just slip down to and walk on the beach, I need a good pedicure and they say that the beach sand is the best way to get one.”

“Never could say no to my honey.” Steve said as Silvia slipped the car into gear and headed toward the beach. “What are your plans for dinner Silvia?”

“I am available, but don’t want to smother you.” She replied with a smile, “You should enjoy the nights and each others company.”

“Well ok,” Steve replied with a sly look. “But don’t blame me when you hear about us having a world class dinner at the Robins nest.”

“The writer?” Silvia asked, her curiosity peaking up. “How would you know him?”

“Work tends to put me in contact with the strangest people.”

As they traveled sharing small talk the trio began to enjoy themselves talking about the small things that constitute life, unconsciously shying away from anything too serious. Before they knew it Silvia was pulling up into a parking lot of one of the largest malls that ran along the beach.

Having left the car the trio was aimlessly wondering the outside mall joking and just enjoying the each other’s company when from behind an argument developed followed by the sound of a sharp slap then a cry in pain.

“Listen Bitch,” a male voice was heard in the unusual quietness that followed the slap. “I said no, now fall in line.”

“You bastard,” a female voice snapped back. “I told you never to hit her in public.”

“Shut up,” the male snapped. “Both of you need a good beating.”

“Excuse me,” Buffy politely excused herself as she turned to look at the man who was abusing two teen-aged girls. “I’m sorry mister, are you having a bad day?”

“Stay out of it bitch,” the offending man snapped as he looked at the bottle blond who was interrupting his business, looking up he noticed her two friends turning his attention to them he continued. “I think you better call off your bitch before I decide to turn her out with these two hoes.”

“I tried to control her once,” Steve replied with a grin as he put his hand on Silvia’s shoulder pulling her back as she started toward Buffy. “The girl has a mind of her own.”

“Hey dick,” Buffy snapped commanding the man’s attention. “I’m here, the one who is talking to you.”

“I said to shut up bitch.” The man said turning his attention back to the blond. “Maybe I should teach you a lesson in keeping your mind in your own business.”

“A lesson,” Buffy replied acting like she was deep in thought. “Yes, that is exactly what is needed here. The person who needs the lesson is the unclear. Yes I think the lesson that needs to be taught here is how one should treat and respect their women. But I am betting you have all kind of excuses about how come you treat them that way.”

“I said shut up bitch.” The man snapped as he raised his hand.

Even though she was aware of his physical threat, Buffy’s only outward sign of it was a creepy smile that appeared on her face.

###

“Don’t worry,” Steve told Silvia as he pulled her back, “Buffy has her way with guys like this, watch.”

“He is about three times her size.” Silvia replied after a few seconds of watching the play between the two. “He looks like he is going to strike.”

“Yea it does look like that doesn’t it?” Steve replied with a smile as he continued to watch the tension grow between the man and Buffy. He smiled as he continued to watch the pair of them.

Silvia looked at Steve for a brief second with questions in her eyes before she also turned back to watch the action unfold.

###

Continuing her taunt as if the man was doing nothing, Buffy went on, “Let me guess you were abused as a child, your father treated your mother like shit so you think that is how it’s done.”

“Since your man don’t know how to keep you in check.” The man said losing a little of his confidence as he noticed the man behind the girl holding off the soldier who was about to come to the blonde’s aid. “I will do it.”

“How’re you going to do that?” Buffy taunted as she watched the guy standing there with his hand posed in the air, taking a pause to look around she turned back to him as she went on. “We aren’t in class, no teacher around so why you holding up your hand?”

The two girls who were being yelled at the man moved back each of them knowing the explosive nature of the man. The older of the two stepped up afraid he would hurt the young girl she reached out to touch his shoulder but was hit for her trouble, knocked back she put her hand over the developing whelp that formed on her cheek.

“Mister, if you want to hit someone turn this way,” Buffy snapped about ready to lose patience with the man. “And while we are discussing your personality lets drift over to your style you reject from the seventies pimp days. Before you hit anyone else you’d better pay more attention to me.”

“What is going on here?” an authorative voice snapped as a crowd had gathered around the action. “Back up and disperse.”

“Guess you were looking for someone to come save you pansy.” Buffy said keeping her voice low. “I think the girls are now going to give you a hard time now that part of your power has been taken from you by a girl.”

“Let me through,” The voice said as the crowd slowly started to part.

“I guess it’s true, any guy who would hit a girl is a pansy trying to compensate for other small matters.” Buffy said as her eyes drifted over his body. Glancing over to the two girls she spoke a bit louder knowing that her words were taunting him into something rash. “Girls see how he quivers; all you have to do is point out that he is not as bad as he believes.”

“What is going on here?” The officer asked as he finally broke through the crowd just as the pimp swung on the young blonde.

Bingo! Buffy thought to herself as the man swung on her; stepping aside she let his strike go past her turning slightly as he went off balance Buffy put a well placed fist into his kidneys followed by a kick behind the knee forcing the man to his knees, following it up with a solid strike with the knife-edge of her hand to the shoulder of the man knocking him down groaning.

“Aloha officer,” Buffy replied as she stepped away from the man. “I was trying to help the man get up.”

“Step away from the man.” The officer ordered his hand on his pistol. “Put your hands on your head and get down on your knees.”

Complying with the orders Buffy wondered why the officer was taking such a hard line but since they were in a different state and she didn’t want to cause waves she went along with it. “Sir,”

“Shut up,” The officer ordered as he helped the man to his feet. “Mike you ok?”

“Yea, she just attacked me,” the man said his whole stance and attitude changing in front of Buffy’s eyes. Before where there was a foul-mouth pimp now stood a man who was the personification of a gentleman.

“Do you want to press charges?”

“Hell yes, she should be off the streets,” Mike said as he picked himself up off the floor. A sly smile spread across his face as he winked at the girl who smacked him down. “Girl needs to understand what the law is here.”

“Officer,” Steve said stepping up to the arresting officer, “You’re making a mistake, both in judgment and action.”

“Who are you?” The officer snapped as he turned toward the speaker, “what is your interest in this situation?”

“I watched the whole thing, this man swung at the girl first.” Steve said as he stepped up and looked over the man and the officer. “If you continue your present course of action I will sue the city of Honolulu and the state of Hawaii and YOU.”

“Are you willing to sign a statement to that fact?” the officer asked as he lifted Buffy by her still handcuffed arm.

“I’m willing to do a lot more than that.” Steve said as he pulled out his own phone cell “I’m willing to call a lawyer and get the law suit started right now.”

“Sir, there is no reason to get hostile” the officer said as he moved to un-cuff Buffy. “I was only acting on the situation which I came across.”

“I think there is something a bit more sinister here,” Steve, replied as he hung up his phone, looking the officer over he continued. “I want to press some legitimate charges against this man. I will follow you to the precinct to fill out those papers.”

“What the hell are you talking about?” Mike asked as he brushed himself off. “She attacked me, not the other way around.”

“You took the first swing,” Silvia put in her thoughts, “You were just not able to connect first.”

“Fine,” The officer snapped as he noticed more than a few of the crowd gathering around them nod their heads in agreement. “My report will show what I saw.”

“You do that.” Steve said taking Buffy by the arm leading her back to the car.

“Damn I wish he swung earlier, I would have loved to hit him a few more times.”

“You know you just made a bad enemy with that cop and pimp right?” Silvia asked as she followed the pair down to the beach

“Never had a good one,”

“Those are the only one’s to have.” Steve added his thoughts to Buffy’s statement.

###

Arriving at the precinct Steve asked the desk sergeant for a blank incident report, before he took the paper and went over to a stool where he could write out what had happen that morning, including the officer name and his actions when he arrived on scene including calling the perpetrator by his first name and automatically putting Buffy in cuffs. He was just about to give the report back to the desk sergeant when a woman in a suit stepped forward and asked for the paper.

“Sir, I am Lt. Billings with the Honolulu police with the Internal Affairs department. May I read this?”

“Certainly,” Steve said as he handed over the paper, “I know a lot of good cops, and a few bad ones. But I guess that is your job to find out which one this man is.”

“I will read this and decide what course to take,” the woman said as she turned away from Steve and headed back to her office.

Figuring his responsibilities ended there Steve turned to Buffy and Silvia and asked. “You two ready to get back to the boardwalk?”

“Oh yea,” the girls chorused together getting in the car.

###

The trio spent the day walking along the boardwalk with Buffy making purchases for the group back in Sunnydale. The sun was just beginning to sink into the ocean when Steve took a glance at his watch. “Buffy we need to start heading back to the hotel, Higgins won’t be too understanding about us being late to dinner.”

“We’ll make it, just have to drop these things off in the room and then change real quick. Wonder if Rachael is going to be there.”

“I don’t know,” Steve replied before he turned to Silvia and asked. “Do you have any dresses?”

“I have a couple, I won’t be too far out of place.”

“Honey it’s not too formal is it?”

“No, but we should give some respect and come at least presentable.”

“How do you know Mr. Masters?”

“Through mutual friends,” Steve said off handedly.

###

Entering the resort, they noticed that the receptionist was calling them over by holding an envelope in the air while waving them over. Excusing himself from the girls, Steve walked over and accepted the envelope sticking it in his back pocket before he joined the girls in the elevator.

In the elevator Buffy and Silvia were laughing by the time Steve entered. Looking at both of the girls, he shook his head before he asked what he knew was going to be a hot question.

“What’re you two laughing about?”

“Oh I was just telling her about Xander and Cordelia, don’t know why she cut