The Hidden Universe

Harry Potter, Marek Ilumian, newly-raised God of Free Will, rubbed his hands together with a fairly evil smirk as he contemplated those who had displeased his Boss, the Creator.

Harry had at various times been subtle, sometimes over the top, doing small things, large things – he had done most things. But he had never been given an entire dimension to re-order.

He suddenly realized that this wasn't going to be as easy as he thought. But, each thing had an effect so he started with the first thing. "Buffy? Come here please. Bring your friends."

Buffy came forward and said, "You called?"

Harry nodded. "You told the Boss you wanted a boyfriend, right? What kind of boyfriend do you want?"

Buffy's eyes widened. "With everything that you could do, the first thing you ask is what kind of boyfriend I want?" she asked incredulously. Many who witnessed were feeling just as incredulous.

Harry shrugged. "Sure! What most of those watching seem to forget is that big things are made up of a lot of smaller things. And while it isn't the Big thing that it could be, to you it was important enough that you even jokingly brought it up to the boss. So – what kind of boyfriend do you want?"

Buffy stared at Harry, thinking furiously. Suddenly Harry's face changed and he said, "Stop!"

Buffy stopped. "What?"

Harry gave the Powers That Be and the Senior Partners a suspicious look. He then turned back to Buffy and said, "Before we do anything else – will you let me check you for external influences which might make you suggestible to someone else's ideas?"

Thinking about it, Buffy nodded.

Harry took his Wand out and did a diagnostic scan. With his new power, he found what he would have otherwise never been able to find: A curse which affected Buffy whenever the subject of Romance was involved. "Yeah. Found something. Want me to fix it?"

"Yeah!" Buffy asked as though he was crazy for thinking otherwise.

With a wave of his Wand, Harry Willed the Curse to disconnect from Buffy – and then, changed, it flew off and smacked one particular washed-out looking Angel in the head. That Angel suddenly started flashing in different light patterns: Spotted, striped, polka-dotted, others. Harry wanted it obvious which ones had created what effect.

Besides, it made the being look like a court jester – which was funny.

Raising his voice, Harry said, "Okay Scoobies, Clerics, World Leaders – I'm going to be scanning you for external influences from those that pissed God off and, if I find anything, I will fix it. Line up!"

Soon, Harry had completed the checks and removed quite a number of curses and hexes that had been placed by those watching or their agents. Several Angels were experiencing unpleasant visual effects, one who had cursed Joyce Summers was wheezing so hard he sounded like Darth Vadar, the Wolf, Ram, and Hart became the Bunny, Rat, and Chipmunk. Harry had put a cage around them and then conjured some Kneazles to stand watch in case the now smaller creatures made their way out of the cage he put them in.

The dimensional counterparts of those that were experiencing God's wrath via the newest God were horrified by some of the effects that were seen. In a Far Off Heaven, the Weasley Twins were having a good time watching their old friend work and running wagers on what would happen next.

Finally, it was done, and Harry had Buffy in front of him once more. "Okay, once more without that arseholes curse making you blind, what kind of boyfriend do you want?"

Buffy, who had been watching Harry work, blushed as he now asked the question. She seemed reticent to answer now. Harry gently coaxed her, "Come on, now. Don't be embarrassed. Just say it. I promise it will be okay."

Finally Buffy, who was normally a rather self-assured girl (outside of this one area) stammered out, "Honestly? Someone like you."

Harry gave her a kind smile and considered that. "Okay. One Made-To-Order Hero Harry Potter coming right up." He turned to the Creator and Her Voice and said, "Give me about ten minutes?"

God gave him a smile and nodded. Harry paused for a moment and called, "Hey, Aphrael? Want to come with and help me out?"

The small girl crowed as she ran forward, after getting permission from her father Sparhawk, and jumped into Harry's arms. Harry held her with one arm and his Wand in the other.

Concentrating, Harry traveled …

Those left waiting were given an opportunity to speak to each other, including the Martyrs with the Religious Leaders who had been in charge.

God also took the opportunity, through Metatron, to speak to the gathered leaders about certain matters which He/She considered good and bad about each of them. While Iran, for example, had somewhat progressive policies about Women compared to some of their neighbours, there was still room for improvement. There was also the matter of the continued existence of Israel: While God acknowledged it was less a Jewish state and more of a Zionist one, She pointed out the stupidity of continued opposition to an established fact.

She did encourage the Muslim leaders – and the others – to apply pressure to ensure the Palestines were given the West Bank and the lands that they were due according to the original agreements. Even the Jewish leaders present could see the Creator's point.

Jerusalem was named as a gift from the Creator to all of their faiths.

The Creator also kaboshed any discussion on which was the "correct" religion or sect: Such arguments, she pointed out, were pointless and it was best to let each people relate to Him/Her in the traditions they were most comfortable with.

Even though the Christians found it barbaric, and the Jews archaic, She acknowledged that having the women and men pray separately was acceptable to Her. Regardless of the ideas of the Christians and Jews, for the Muslims it was about being able to pray without temptation present to distract the mind from their consideration of God during prayer.

Her point was that each should have some respect for their differing ideas and traditions and work together to improve the lot of each man, woman, and child on Earth – and elsewhere.

The gathered leaders were startled when she brought that up. When She was asked, She only smiled and tweaked the nose of the one asking. Metatron chuckled and would only say that they would soon find out.

Suddenly, all those present watching were distracted by the very large portal that opened up across the grassy plain that had been left from the Wand choosing Harry.

The Scoobies and world leaders watched in amazement as Harry returned, carrying Flute, leading a very large group of quite a different number of creatures.

Unicorns, hippogryphs, centaurs, fairies, pixies, house elves, goblins, witches and wizards. Buffy was wide eyed as some of the last ones came through as Harry approached with a group of wizards and witches and other sentient creatures.

"Harry? Are those Dragons?" she asked with some nervousness.

"Yep. Not the Demonic kind either. Just magical creatures who want to live just like any other creature." He turned to the Creator and Her Voice and spoke so that the World Leaders could hear what he said.

"I found a world that I deemed beyond saving. The Dark wizards, like idiots, exposed the Magical world to the notice of the non-magicals. And the world governments acted with extreme prejudice and greed to kill anything magical and take the resources left behind. I found my counterpart," he nodded to another version of himself who was just a bit shorter and who had a few more scars, but still held himself with the grace and poise of a leader of his people, "about to lead those he could save to any random dimension that the ritual they put together could find in order to save as many as he could."

Harry grinned. "Instead, I offered him Sanctuary in this world, after explaining what I was doing. He accepted. Aphrael and I had quite a lot of fun extracting the magical creatures and people remaining that were worth saving and bringing them back here. The idiots we left behind to face the ravening horde. We also left many creatures that we had no desire to bring with us such as dementors, lethifolds, a few others."

One of the world leaders asked with some worry, "Where are you going to put them all?"

Harry grinned at the American President, Jack Ryan, and replied, "Funny you should ask. You see – I'm going to be removing every negative demonic influence from the world. The Demonic Bankers and Lawyers disappearing would create a hole and I'm going to fill this with Goblins and others. Goblins, unlike Demons, have Honor and a sense of fair play, even if they can be a bit greedy. The Goblins are going to take control of all the assets that the Demons and Angels on the two sides of this fight and they're going to invest it all back into the world's economies. Expect a suddenly increased tax-base for countries the world over – start making plans for infrastructure improvements. You're going to need them. Not to mention the decreased need for Defense spending as the many of the elements which incited conflict over the world are going bye bye."

Jack Ryan's eyes widened. He started quickly gathering world leaders that were present around to immediately start talking about changes that would have to be made. To his mind, there was no time to be wasted. The Iranian Supreme Leader was shocked that he had been included in this impromptu meeting.

Senator Robert Kinsey, who found himself dead and with the beings that were considered unsalvageable, seethed as he watched the American President pow-wowing with leaders of countries that the US should be at War with – if he had his choice.

Unfortunately for him, he had no say anymore and would never again – he wasn't destined to return to Earth.

"Actually: Everyone should watch this." Those present watched as Harry worked. Suddenly another portal opened near to the one that Harry had led the refugees through and a veritable torrent of rats, mice, insects, and other pests moved through the portal the other way.

Faith asked curiously, "What's that about?"

The Traveler grinned. "Well, I'm all about balance. Here I am taking this huge biomass from that other dimension. I mean, just look at how many people and creatures got here. I wouldn't want to be accused of not filling back what I stole. So – I've sent enough vermin and pests from places where they were overpopulated to fill back in the void left. Exterminators are going to have a harder time until their numbers replenish, but I took most from places where they didn't have any ability to control them. I hope there won't be too many complaints."

Harry grinned as the flow of animals, insects and vermin petered out. Harry had also cleaned out a large amount of invasive species of fish from places that were being overwhelmed and magically sent them through. When it was done, both portals winked out.

Harry motioned the Leaders to go back to conferring with each other.

Meanwhile, Harry started introducing the Scoobies to the magicals that he brought. "Okay, Buffy. Here's your Harry Potter. He's a bit rougher around the edges than I am but he's a bit more noble than I was." He turned to his alternate, "Harry, this is Buffy who I told you about. Like you, screwed over by the Powers That Be but still doing the best she can. I believe the two of you will get along splendidly."

The two were shyly meeting. Buffy asked, "Can you turn into a phoenix like he can?"

The new Harry shook his head. "No. I have a different animagus form. Not quite as useful, maybe, as a phoenix but I like it."

"What is it?" Buffy asked curiously.

Harry stepped back and changed to his animagus form. Buffy was confronted by a black haired and feathered winged Pegasus with green eyes. Buffy squealed and rushed forward to inspect the grand creature. At one point, she hugged the winged horse around its neck and it changed back to Harry, which was now being hugged by Buffy. "I hope you're not too disappointed."

Buffy said with some enthusiasm, "I'm keeping you!"

Harry blushed.

The Traveler was watching with amusement. Finally he turned to the next Scoobie. "Faith? Come here please."

The girl came forward a bit hesitantly, contrary to her normal façade. "Faith, since I brought a boy back for Buffy, I thought I'd help out her Sister Slayer as well. Meet Neville Longbottom."

The much taller Neville stepped forward with a sheepish expression. "Just as nice, just as noble, and just as rich as Harry there," Faith's eyes widened, "he's also a lot more laid back. Where you're wild, he's calm. Where you like fighting, he like's growing things – even though he's a dab hand at magical combat. Normally, I'd suggest people who were more alike but something tells me that you two will actually provide a balance for each other. If you're willing to give it a try."

Faith asked with some of her old confidence, "So, can you change into an animal too?"

Neville nodded and changed into a large brown bear. Faith immediately cooed and hugged the large creature. When Neville turned back, he was blushing.

"And finally, Xander." The least magical Scoobie, he was also the Keystone. Harry though that he deserved a bit of happiness too. "Alexander Lavelle Harris, known as Xander to his friends, meet Hermione Jean Granger. Like you, she's the rock which holds the group of her friends, which includes Harry and Neville, together, and she, I believe, would make an excellent companion."

"Hermione, meet Xander. Unlike that fool Ron Weasley, this one actually has that hidden potential, intelligence, and ability that only needs a woman such as yourself to bring forward. He has that shyness hidden behind a mask that you have and I believe you two would do well together. If you want to try."

Hermione shrugged and went to meet Xander. Unlike the others, they were more cautious, but that suited both of them.

Xander tried to be charming and asked, "So can you turn into an animal?"

At that, Harry and Neville who were listening tried to stop him, but they failed. Xander noted the immediate disaffection on Hermione's face. "What's wrong?" Xander asked genetly. "It can't be that bad."

Hermione stood there unwilling to talk about it. Xander put on his best Xander-face, one which the females in the Scoobies could never say no to, and asked, "Please?"

Hermione sighed and mumbled something. Xander asked, "What did you say?"

"I said, I'm a Hyena. A magical one at that." Her face didn't change.

"What's wrong with that?" Xander asked confused.

Finally Hermione answered plaintively, "Because! For some reason, it's MALE!"

Xander looked at Hermione with wide eyes – before starting to laugh loudly. Hermione was upset, but noticed the laughter wasn't malicious so she asked, "What's so funny?!"

Xander got himself under control and replied, "Because last year I was possessed by the spirit of a Hyena. And I was really upset because it was the FEMALE!"

Everyone newly arrived had wide eyes as they looked at the amused man. Hermione asked, "Really?"

Buffy, who was with Harry, laughed. "Yeah, we teased him for months."

Hermione gave Xander one of her best smiles. Xander took her hands and said, "I think we're going to get along fine."

The Traveler, who had been watching, stepped forward. "If you two want, I can fix the gender problem. If I do it, you two will be tied together magically. Xander, you'll have to accept that Hermione will end up the Alpha because the female Hyena is Alpha. It won't affect you as humans much, but you're probably going to have to get used to doing what she says."

Xander smiled down at the beautiful woman before him and said, "That's okay with me. I'm already used to following orders from Buffy and the other women. I can deal."

Hermione asked, "You don't mind being tied to a bushy-haired know-it-all?"

Xander grinned. "My kind of girl."

Hermione and Xander turned and nodded and the Traveler applied his will and exchanged Hyena spirits between them. "Okay then, just one more thing. Buffy? You have that box with the wands I had?"

She quickly presented the box to him. "Xander? Take the stick on the left – the one made of Holly."

Curious, Xander did as asked and everyone was amazed when sparks shot forth from the wand. "What's that!?" Xander asked.

With a voice that his alternate recognized sounded like their old friend Hagrid, the Traveler said, "Yer a Wizard, Xander!"

Xander and the Scoobies were shocked. "Are you sure? I've had baaaaaad reactions to magic," he said worriedly.

The Traveler nodded. "Yeah – a curse from one of those idiots. That's fixed now. Hermione will be able to teach you to be a proper wizard. Have no doubt."

He left the two talking and considered what to do next. "Okay. Joyce?"

"Yes, Harry?" Joyce looked from where she had been watching her daughter and the new Harry with a smile. Finally a boyfriend she could approve of.

"You've taken the place of Mother for Buffy and her friends. The people I've brought will also need a mother figure. A good mother is very hard to find and I cannot tell you how important it is. Will you be willing the Mother for them and a few more?"

Joyce said, "Of course! Since Buffy seems to now be on the right path, I'll probably need something to do with my time." She said this with a smile.

"Good. Luna!" A spaced-looking girl came forward from the group of magicals. "Luna, this is Joyce. She will be Mother." He turned to Joyce. "Luna lost her mother at 9, her father recently, and at 17 years old currently has had a very, hard, life. She could really use a mother, right about now. She comes with money so you won't have to worry about that. But everything else – please."

Joyce looked at the girl and walked forward. Luna looked almost ready to run for just a moment – and then Joyce took her into her arms and cuddled the girl. Luna's eyes widened – and then tears started running down her face. All watched as a hurt long felt was lanced for the first time in a long time.

Buffy left Harry and Faith left Neville to come forward and emrace the two. Luna's tears slowed and she looked wildly at the two additions. "Since she's going to be your mom, and she's already my mom, and Faith her is my newly claimed sister, that means we're sisters too."

Luna's eyes lit in joy as she tried to hug all three at once. It had been so long since she had felt such instant acceptance.

The Traveler let them connect and called, "Harry!"

The new Harry stopped watching his new girlfriend and walked over to the Traveler. "Time to meet world leaders."

Harry nodded and put on his more "Diplomatic" face as he followed the Traveler over to the watching leaders. Even the President and those he had been speaking to had been distracted by what was going on.

"Leaders of Earth, Religious and Polticical, I present Harry James Potter, Wizard, and elected leader of the wizards and witches that I have brought. Even though he is only eighteen, he has already fought a war for the salvation of his people and he is the force behind keeping them alive in the face of world-wide genocide."

Harry bowed before the collected leaders and opened his mouth to speak, when he noticed one particular face in crowd. He called out, "Ragnok!"

One of the Goblins, the Leader from the armor he wore as well as the Rings and Crown, walked forward. "Battlemaster?"

Harry turned and said, "Look!" and pointed to one of the Leaders present.

Ragnok looked and his eyes widened. "Warriors! Atten-shun!" even as Harry cried, "Wizards and Witches, Attend!"

Harry waited until Ragnok was next to him and the two walked formally forward and suddenly kneeled before the man that Harry had noticed in the crowd. Both bowed their heads in respect.

Pope John Paul the II considered the two before him before making the sign of the cross and performing a blessing. Finally he said, "Please rise." Harry and Ragnok rose together and stood respectfully. "Why do you come before me when even our Lord God stands close by and deserves your respect more?"

Harry replied, "In the world we come from, the leaders of Earth, almost without exception, allowed their people to do horrible things to ours when we were found. We were killed, tortured, experimented on. Some quietly tried to stem it, like the American President, but one leader – just one – called loudly and publicly for an end to the atrocities. This was your alternate.

"Your alternate argued that we are all children of the Creator and such depravity against any of his children was not to be accepted. Your counterpart even resigned in protest when leaders who called themselves Catholic refused to listen to your words and your Cardinals tried to convince you to change your position if only to keep the Vatican's influence from waning over this one matter which could not be controlled. You refused. But your people listened. That this many of my people and Ragnok's people only survived because one Catholic or another the world over listened to the words of their Pope and provided sanctuary, many even risking and losing their lives doing so cannot be argued against."

Ragnok continued. "Such a debt requires respect – and an attempt needs be made to balance it, even if it is impossible. We could not pay your counterpart in full for what he did for us, but we left gold in payment to each Catholic who sheltered one of ours. It was all we could do when coming here. But know this: We the magicals who come to this world for sanctuary will accept only the teachers and priests that you might send us without suspicion and without hindrance."

Harry finished. "We may not convert to your faith entirely, but it is currently the only faith which we trust to do right by us. And, if ever you need assistance, call upon us and we will do whatever we can in recognition of the Debt Which Cannot be Paid."

The Pope nodded and, finally, put his hands on the heads of the two that faced him and performed one more benediction.

Harry and Ragnok retreated to their respective places after bowing to the Holy man respectfully.

The Traveler clapped his hands to draw attention back to himself.

"Okay! We have a few more items to deal with." He looked around and saw who he needed. "Belgarion! Please come forward."

Belgarion, King of Riva, Overlord of the West, and Godslayer, stepped forward. "Hello, Lord Marek. You need me?"

Harry gave Gelgarion the eye. "Oy! Can we keep the Lord stuff to a minimum?"

Garion grinned. "Sorry. That's how we speak to Gods in our world. Get used to it."

The Traveler huffed and said, "Fine. Whatever. Anyway, I need you help with a matter that only someone like you can deal with without massive losses."

Curious, Garion asked, "What is it?"

"I have a Hellgoddess that has been imprisoned on Earth in an otherwise good Human. She was kicked out from the Hell dimension she came from by her two brothers because she was so Evil and imprisoned in a Human on Earth by a group of Monks. The chains, however, are weakening and if she gets free she's going to try to open the door back to her home which will destroy any number of dimensions if she succeeds. Usually Buffy's alternates have to deal with it and through various circumstances it opens the door to something best left alone.

"Then THAT only gets defeated by calling up every Slayer potential on Earth, but it almost invariably results in many deaths and the destruction of Sunnydale. I'd like to try to take care of it without the collateral damage this time - just nip it all at the bud. Will you help?"

Belgarion reached to his back and pulled his sword. A shield appeared on his other arm. The sword lit into a tongue of flame. Those watching were awed. "Put her over there?" he motioned his head toward the still-empty plane beyond the Magicals who had appeared.

The Traveler nodded. Before he could act, another voice was heard. "Would another sword help?"

Everyone looked over and saw that Sparhawk was walking forward, glowing blue with the power of the Crystal Rose he carried. "I've slain a God or two myself when needed to protect my world. Bhelliom World Maker has agreed to aid me if you will accept my assistance."

Garion grinned at the armored Knight. "It's always nice to have friends when dealing with pests. I'm Belgarion, Kind of Riva, Overlord of the West, Godslayer, and Disciple of the God Aldur. I killed the God Torak in Single Combat."

Sparhawk nodded. "I am Sparhawk, Prince Consort of the Kingdom of Elenia, Preceptor of the Pandion Knights, one of the four Orders of Church Knights on my world, father to the Goddess Aphrael in her current incarnation, Anakha to my world, I am the Man with No Destiny other than what I choose. I have killed the God Azash in Magical Battle and the God Cyrgon in Single Combat."

Belagarion's eyes widened at that. "You have more titles than me!" he cried with some humor.

Sparhawk shrugged with a smile. "You'll get there."

Belgarion asked the Traveler, "How big?"

"300 feet or so."

Belgarion nodded to Sparhawk, and the two locked step together toward the empty plane. Once they were past the refugees, each started expanding in size until each was titanic. Harry waved his Wand and the Hellgoddess Glorificus was put right before the two Godslayers.

The Traveler stood next the Creator and Her Voice as they watched the struggle. For all of her size and power, Glory was not trained in combat. And she fought two who were. It was really no contest.

The two deities observed the terror of the local Powers and Partners as well as those watching from other dimensions. The smirked at each other as they saw exactly how scared those were seeing not one, but two powers that none of them could ever hope to overcome.

Harry and the Creator were quite amused.

Finally, the two finished the job and started walking back. Glory dissolved into the empty fields. Those watching could hear the two bantering back and forth about the fight. Most were amazed that the two were as calm as they were.

Both had considered it a good workout. They then had fun looking at the Demons and Angels watching and smiling at them, causing these to flinch.

Harry Potter, the new one, remarked to his friends, "Next time I complain about Voldemort – remind me of this please?"

His friends all nodded in agreement. None of them would ever want to face such a thing.

When everyone was back to their original positions and the magical refugees had been set off to the areas behind the leaders and the Scoobies, Harry thought about the next step. "Okay. I do believe that we're going to deal with the Demons now."

Concentrating, Harry waved his wand.

Suddenly, in the empty planes where Glorificus was killed, every evil Demon on Earth, as well as every Vampire essence – forcibly removed from the skeleton they had inhabited and brought here – was now gathered together. There were hundreds of thousands of them.

Harry had magically sent every corpse that these had been inhabited by a Vampire Demon back to the grave where they had been originally buried in or, if they hadn't had a grave, the location where the Human had died.

Harry wanted no Demon left on Earth when he was done.

"Okay! Demons of Earth! You have been called here to face final judgment! The Powers That Be and the Senior Partners have been deposed and there is no place for you anymore on Earth! Please wait patiently until we've dealt with certain special cases." Harry said the last with a smirk. The Demons tried to force themselves forward but hit a large barrier. Harry nodded in satisfaction.

Harry summoned three particular demons or humans who had been demons. "First, Liam, who was known by Angel, the Demonic Essence which had been attached to your soul has been excised. You are now free of it. You have two choices: I will send you on to the afterlife where you may work to achieve paradise, though it might take millennia, or I can send you back, cleansed, a blank soul, to be reborn to a Human on Earth. Your current personality would be lost. There would be no guarantee that you will live in a good place or with good parents but I will not send you to be tortured. Stay Liam and work to achieve heaven, or lose Liam and maybe end up in Heaven or Hell after living another life on Earth. Choose."

"Who are you to demand I choose?" the former Vampire with a Soul asked.

"I am Marek Ilumian, God of Free Will and Knowledge, newly made, and you stand before me and your Creator." He motioned to God and Metatron, who watched Liam stoically. "I have been given leave to re-order Earth and there shall be no Demonic vampires. So you have only the two options I gave. Choose."

Liam whines, "Aren't there any other choices?"

"Liam. I have given you the choices available. If it was anyone else, they would have decided for you. If you do not choose once I ask again, I will leave the choice to others who might not look so kindly on you. You have the two choices. Choose!"

Finally, Liam sullenly said, "I choose to remain Liam."

"Very well." Harry waved his Wand to send him to his reward.

It looked as though Liam had tried to say something else, but Harry was in no mood to cater to Emo. Buffy, who had been watching, said to the Harry she was with, "I can't believe I had been cursed to be attracted to that! What a whiny bastard!"

Hermione, who stood close by with Xander, said, "I could tell you chapter and verse – remind me to tell you about the waste of space that was Ronald Weasley and about his mother's Love Potions."

Buffy nodded back in commiseration.

Harry summoned the next Human. "Anya Jenkins, formerly Vengence Demon and Patron Saint of Women Scorned Anyanka, you are suffering a bit of shock. And I apologize for that. But needs must. I am banishing all Demonic influence from Earth. In other dimensions, your alternates achieve humanity again due to the work of the Slayer and her friends. Many found love, or at least lust, as well as joy in making money. You almost get married, but only in some worlds you achieve it. In many worlds you die human when Sunnydale collapses, and in others you achieve long life and happiness. I will not allow my actions to prevent you from possibly achieving these things. I give you three choices: Move onto your final reward as a Human, and possibly make it to paradise eventually; or, your soul will be cleansed and you shall lose the identity of Anya formerly Anyanka, and be reborn into the world to live a new life. You would lose all memories of the pains you have experienced and those you have inflicted. Your demonic knowledge will no longer have any use. The third choice is to be returned as Human as you are now and to try to make your way into the world – sink or swim. I would ask my alternate to provide some small startup funding – but no more. These are your three choices: Choose."

Unlike Liam, Anya did not whine. She actually considered the option she had been given. And finally, she chose what she felt was best for her. "I have no recent knowledge other than that of a demon. This knowledge will not help me and will hinder me. I desire the chance to see my soul achieve paradise – but it will be almost impossible if I try to maintain my current knowledge. So I ask to be cleansed and reborn newly."

Cordelia Chase, who was standing with the Scoobies called out. "Anya?"

"Yes, Cordelia Chase?"

"Although our once interaction proved to be … interesting, I believe you deserve to be remembered. If I ever have daughters, I will name my first Anya to remember you by."

Anya Jenkins smiled at one of her former clients. It was a small thing – but it was enough. "Thank you."

Another voice was heard, "Harry?"

Harry turned toward the unexpected voice. "Aphrael?"

Aphrael spoke urgently to her father – who wanted to say no but finally gave in. "It is time for my mortal incarnation to have a child of her own to continue the Royal Line of Elenia. And although some of her choices were due to the Demonic influence, some of the mischief was inherent." Aphrael sighed – she really didn't want to give up her innocence – but it was finally time after thousands and thousands of years. "I will accept the new, clean soul for the daughter I will have. She will grow up a princess."

Harry smiled at the Goddess he loved so much almost like she was a little sister. He looked an Anya, "Is this acceptable?"

Anya had a wide smile. "Yes! Thank you, Aphrael!" She paused and then said, "Mom!"

Flute smiled at the soul who joined Her. Her mortal body would be allowed to die when time restarted and Anya would be no more upon the Earth.

Finally, Harry called the last forward – and this was a true Demon.

Buffy growled out, "Spike!"

The Traveler motioned her to be quite, which she reluctantly did.

"William, formerly known as William the Bloody and Spike, yours is the most interesting case that I will have to deal with – even moreso than dealing with a Hellgoddess and the Dimensional Key which I will soon be confronting."

Pugnaciously, Spike said, "Oh, yeah? An'why's that?"

Harry smiled. "Because, given normal circumstances in almost every dimension where you exist you, a Demonic Vampire and through your own choice and effort, eventually earn a place in Paradise for what you do in aiding the Slayer in saving the world."

At that Spike, William, looked shocked. "You sure you got the right one? I bin a pretty bad one. I've killed two Slayers! I'm about as Evil as you can get!"

Harry chuckled. "Yes. But for all of that, you also can feel Love. You love Dru – don't you?"

William sighed and though it pained him to admit it he replied, "Yeah? What of it?" He was really trying to keep up the Big Bad image.

"Well, in consideration of the Love you feel for her, instead of facing destruction as all of those do, with the Creator's blessing I have cleansed her and the Creator has ensured that the product is a clean soul. This soul will have the Seer and Prophetess abilities that Drusilla had – without any of the Demonic taint. She is to be reborn into the world and will make her way, eventually, to learn Magic at Hogwarts, which Harry here will help set back up on this new world."

William was wide-eyed. "You did all that? Just because I loved her?"

Harry nodded. "Love is a powerful thing and is the province of God. I could not call a being irredeemable who was loved so much by another. Nor can I call the one who loves so much irredeemable. And so I give you three choices. One: Your demonic essence cleansed, you will be sent to the same place Liam was sent to try to work your way to eventual paradise."

"Yeah. No – ain't doing that. I bin tryin' to stay away from that ponce and I don' need to be sent to where I know he'll be."

Harry nodded. "The second choice is to be cleansed yourself and be reborn as Human. There is no guarantees if this occurs. You will live and die as a Human – and never remember that you were once William."

William looked leery of this. "Yeah, no – if I'm gonna overcome the bad I done, I'd like to remember it so I knows what I have to make up for. So whatever three is – that's what I'm doing."

"Well, then, you shall be made mortal – and a wizard. It will be Harry's responsibility to ensure you do your penance and learn to live a just, mortal life."

William sighed. "Well …" he paused and considered who was present and decided against saying it, "I guess I put myself there. Let's get it over with."

William came forward as he was directed to. Standing before God and Harry, he waited for the pain. Harry reached forward and grabbed the Demonic essence. All could see the mottled thing as the body that had contained it dropped. Harry, waving his Wand as though a scanner, gradually released the black taint that pervaded much of the essence he held. Surprisingly, there were parts that were already white and clean. Harry left those alone. And when it was white – or a very dull gray anyway, Harry shoved the thing back into the body that had held it. God kneeled down and breathed on the body.

And all could see the body start to come to life. There was a cough and William sat up. "Bloo-dy HELL that was something!"

God looked down at William with her eyebrow tweaked, as though asking – Do you really wanna say that NOW?

Before anyone could say anything out loud however, a voice was heard in outrage, "William!"

William, formerly Spike looked over, "Er. Yeah, Mrs. S?"

With a stern face Joyce Summers said, "Get over here!"

Looking at the Traveler confused, William stood and walked over to Joyce. "I don't care that Harry here is now responsible for you. If you're going to be part of this group, you will learn, and display, manners! Or you will answer to me! Do you understand me?" Joyce was at full form.

William actually looked terrified as he asked the Traveler, "Umm She's getting all Mum on me! What do I do?" All could see the fear on his face.

The Traveler snickered. "Get used to your new life. The proper response here is, 'Yes, Mum'."

William looked at Joyce who was still waiting for an answer and finally hung his head and mumbled, "Yes, Mum."

Joyce reached out and smoothed Williams hair. "Just so you know."

William looked a bit spooked. It wouldn't take much to make him run.

The Traveler said, "Buffy, give him the box and let him take the other wand."

Buffy nodded and presented the open box to William, who reached in and took the wand. It showered sparks, showing a match.

"This is a wand uniquely associated with Death. So your former state probably makes it easier for you to use. It is a powerful wand, though I have already gotten Death to remove the Divine aspect it once held. You don't need the problems that would come with owning it was it was. But it will serve you well. Learn to be a good wizard."

William nodded, grasping the wand to him as it now gave him comfort.

"And the final thing before dealing with the Demonic host over there." Suddenly, a green light was hovering in front of the Traveler.

And no one could hear what was being said. At one point, Joyce and Buffy were called forward and included in the conversation. When it was done, God looked at the Traveler who flashed out and then flashed back with a box containing a number of items, including dirt from Jerusalem and water from the River Jordan. God reached in and started working with whatever was in the large box – which almost looked like a coffin.

At one point, God reached for Buffy and grabbed … something … and put it in the box. She also took something from Joyce. And at another point, something was taken from the green glob of light and the Traveler handed this to God who put this too into the box. The rest of the green glob was changed and Harry, after looking for a moment, caused it to disappear to elsewhere.

And at the end, God leaned over and breathed on whatever was in the box. Harry cast a wide area spell over all who were watching. The sides of the box then disappeared, and a girl was laying where the box had been. The Scoobies recognized her as Dawn, Buffy's younger sister, and wondered what happened.

Maybe Dawn had needed special healing?

Of those present, only Joyce, Buffy, Dawn, God, Metatron, and the Traveler would know that this had been the consciousness of a dimensional Key. Harry had done perfectly (with God's help) what the Monks had tried to do in all other dimensions. There would be no holes, no lapses, no lack of records, no way to ever prove that Dawn had ever been other than what she appeared to be. Even the new refugees accepted her as is.

The Power of the Key Harry had sent to the Account Manager at the First Interdimensional Bank and Trust. This would allow that version of Gringotts to initiate dimensional contact as needed. His Manger would never tell where they got the item which allowed them to safely open rifts to other places as required.

Finally, the Traveler faced the remaining Demonic Horde. "Okay. Next step."

Harry waved his wand and a particular Being appeared. Despite his beauty, those who were knowledgeable recognized it as Lucifer. "Okay. Long ago, as penance for your Rebellion, you and your lieutenants were put placed in Hell and put in charge of the Damned as well as the Demons which resided there. These are the Demons that have been taken from Earth. Some of them are yours. Many belong elsewhere. I will open a portal to your domain and I ask that you claim those that should belong to you."

Lucifer said nothing, but nodded. The Traveler noted that he studiously avoided looking at the Creator and His/Her Voice. The Traveler was amused. Harry opened the Portal – it was very near the edge of the great group of Demons. Disappearing from the gathering, Lucifer appeared next to the Horde. Suddenly, a significant portion of the horde disappeared through the Portal. Finally, when it was done, Lucifer appeared back at the gathering. "Thank you. I ask that you wait. Once we've taken care of the rest, I believe our Boss will be giving you over a few souls and fallen Angels so that they may pay for their crimes."

Startled, Lucifer looked at God – rarely were Angels sent to him. They represented much power in terms of Divine energy and so they were normally just killed. But the Creator nodded, as did Metatron. Lucifer moved off to near the Demonic side to wait for the rest of his haul. Lucifer considered what the idiots had done to deserve such a fate.

Harry then called, "Buffy."

Buffy moved from next to the newly arrived Harry and came to the Traveler. "What's the sich?"

The Traveler shook his head. She was incorrigible. "We need to deal with the Demons out there."

She looked at the large group with wide eyes. "Um. I know I'm the Slayer and Faith is here too, but I think that's a bit much even for us."

The Traveler nodded. "I know. And while I will be asking for help from others, much of what needs to be done must be accomplished by the people of your world. As much as I'd like to magically fix all of your problems, on the cosmic scale it doesn't work that way. I can, perhaps, give you some information based on other versions of yourself."

"Like what?" she asked worriedly.

"When you had to face Glorificus, you recognized that it was too large just for you and the Scoobies, you often died. And, your friends, not realizing you're in Heaven and thinking you were accidentally sent to Hell, revive you. This opens the door to a mega-baddie Called the First Evil gaining power due to the imbalance. That won't happen here, but what occurs later might be of use.

"With Willows help, you called all the Potentials in the world into service at once. It works and the Big Bad is defeated and Sunnydale collapses. And while doing so here will not fully activate them all, it will cause their souls to appear here and they will, when they return, have some of the increase in power and strength that they would have experienced if they had been called on the regular plane."

Buffy considered Harry for a moment before she began walking back toward the Scoobies to confer with them. The Traveler called out, "Buffy?" Buffy looked back. "Remember: Free Will." She nodded and continued walking.

After conferring for quite a while, with some input from the newly arrived Magicals, Buffy returned to the Traveler. "Willow will perform the ritual. But we need a focus."

The Traveler nodded and waved his wand. On the ground before Buffy was the Slayer Scythe. "This was made by the Guardians – those who used to mentor the Slayers before the Watchers stole them. It is a mystical weapon tied to the Slayer line. It can be your focus."

Buffy reached down and easily picked up the large weapon. Moving forward, the Scoobies plus a few magicals arrayed themselves around Willow, Buffy, and Faith.

Willow began the ritual and very soon large numbers of girls between the ages of twelve and nineteen appeared before the group. And when the ritual was done, there seemed to be about 3000 of them.

Buffy stepped forward and explained the circumstances to the gathered girls, who she was, who they were, and why there were needed. At the end, Buffy cried out, "I am one of the final Slayers Called using the old system. I have killed many Vampires and Demons. I stand as Leader and Queen to all who would answer my call. This is Faith – the Last Called. She will be my General. The time of choice is upon you – to go back to your lives or to stay and assist the rest in removing these Demons who have prayed on us forever. So I ask you, Daughters of Sineya, the First Slayer:" and here her voice took on an almost otherworldly quality, "Are You Ready to be Strong?"

With only a very few exceptions, who disappeared back to wherever they came from, most of the girls cheered and decided to stay and fight. Buffy returned the to Traveler and said, "I need weapons."

Harry cast and suddenly there was a large pile of stakes of all sizes as well as swords and daggers. There were also a huge number of water pistols and large containers of water which, being a God, he could now bless and make Holy.

Buffy quickly started organizing the girls with the assistance of the other Scoobies.

Sparhawk, who had been watching, walked forward. "I don't like the idea of just sending these young girls out to face that. Can I bring a few friends to help?"

"What friends?" the Traveler asked curiously.

"The Four Orders of Church Knights. Your Boss," he motioned the Creator who stood watching as witness, "suggested that a mustering exercise might be helpful. It wouldn't take much to bring them here."

Harry laughed. "Well, if you can get Aphrael and Bhelliom to help bring them spiritually here – this plane is not entirely physical – I believe that Buffy would accept your assistance. The way I've set it up, anyone killed will not die permanently but only return to their bodies wherever they come from."

Buffy, who was nearby, heard him. She quickly rushed over and hugged him. "Thank you!" She had been worried about getting so many newly called girls killed. She then rushed back to what she had been doing.

Sparhawk went to talk to his daughter and the Crystal Rose.

By the time the assembled girls were ready, Harry noticed the 100,000 Church Knights who stood ready behind them on lines of horses. Sparhawk offered their assistance to Buffy who accepted it gladly.

There was another group with them, though, that seemed to have surprised everyone. "Sparhawk?"

"Yes?"

"What about those?"

Sparhawk sighed. "I'll let Ulath explain them." He turned and called, "Ulath!"

The very tall Viking-like Knight walked forward from the lines. "Yes, Sparhawk."

"Explain the Trolls to him, please."

Ulath's eyes lit up. "Oh, right! Well, while we were mustering, Bhlokw came and said that Ghworg said that there were many bad-things-that-must-not-be-eaten that must be killed and so he sent the Trolls to help. All they ask for in exchange is some food – hunting has been sparse this season."

Harry asked curiously, "What kind of food?"

With a straight face Ulath replied, "Dogs. Lots and lots of dogs. Dog tastes far better than Human to them."

Harry pinched the bridge of his nose and sighed. He called Buffy and walked back to where the Four Orders were, as well as the Trolls. "Bhlokw. Come here."

One of the very large, very shaggy creatures walked forward. "I am Bhlokw. Trolls come to fight bad-meat-which-must-not-be-eaten."

Harry nodded. "And in exchange you want Dog?"

Bhlokw nodded with a horrendous smile. "Dog is good-to-eat!"

Nodding Harry turned and cast a spell. The Trolls watched as they saw two portals open across from each other. A large number of creatures – rats and fieldmice and other smaller animals rushed through. This was followed by a very large number of dogs chasing them – probably close to 40,000.

Harry then closed the portals.

"Tell your people that when the Bad-meat-that-must-not-be-eaten is killed and they are returned home, there will now be many more Dog-that-is-good-to-eat that can be found and hunted near where the Children of the Troll Gods live in the Place-that-does-not-get-Hot."

Bhlowkw smiled and rushed back to tell the rest of the Trolls the good news.

Harry and Buffy went back to the ordering of Slayerettes.

Ragnok then had to get in on the action. "Marek Ilumian! If we are to live in this new world, it would be best if my warriors assisted in cleansing that filth which was infecting it. I would like to take a part in the battle."

"It's your choice, but know this: Unlike the Slayers and the Knights and the Trolls, you are here physically. That means that if you die here – you're dead. I think we have enough troops so that your people cane be kept safe and alive."

Ragnok nodded and replied, "That may be. But we have just had to retreat in our last world from a fight that we could not win. Morale is low because we do not like retreating. It would do my warriors a great service if you allowed them to participate. They know the risks."

Harry nodded. "Well, I am the God of Free Will. Far be it for me to protect you against your will. I just ask that you keep your women and children and sufficient numbers to protect them back to ensure your people's survival is not threatened."

"It will be as you say."

The Traveler noted that his Counterpart had given over Excalibur, which he had claimed in the old world, to Buffy so that she had two enchanted weapons. Neville gave over the Sword of Gryffindor to Faith. Xander was given some magical protections and his weapons were be-spelled by Hermione.

When things were close to ready, there was one more interruption: The Religious Leaders.

All of those present came forward and demanded that they be allowed to bless those that were about to go into battle, at least the Slayers who were their people. Harry allowed it and Buffy was all for it and so soon the different Religious leaders moved through the group of girls, giving blessings and benedictions according to each of their faiths.

The gathered Slayers looked stronger for it, so it was a good thing.

The Religious leaders also told the girls that they could seek sanctuary when they returned to Earth with any of their sects. The Supreme Leader of Iran told any girls from neighbouring lands which might not treat them well as they were women that they had only come to the border and say they were a daughter of Sineya and he would ensure that they were kept safe and sent on to the Pope or other leaders who would make arrangements for them to join with Buffy in Sunnydale.

And finally, when the entire Army under Buffy's command was gathered and ready to move forward, the Creator through Her Voice added her own blessing to those fighting.

In that moment, the gathered horde knew that they were royally screwed.

It wasn't even close.

It did take a while as the numbers of Demons numbered closer to a couple of million and some were very strong and needed multiple attackers to take down, but in the end the Demons had been, to the very last, annihilated.

When those gathered realized that it was done, there was a great cheer.

The Army returned, tired, sore, but victorious. Only a few Goblins had lost their lives. A good number of the new Slayers had died in battle but they would only return to their bodies on Earth, remembering and, hopefully, learning for the future.

The Four Orders and the Trolls were thanked and dismissed and the Slayers were released.

Finally, Harry called for Sparhawk – and Bhelliom. He addressed the Crystal Rose.

"Bhelliom. This is a blue world, and it falls under your control. These usurpers have opened dimensional rifts to other Hell dimensions, allowing it to be infected. Will you allow Anakha to raise you and, using your Power, fix the places that were made weak so that no more Demons may be brought forth?"

Bhelliom pulsed in agreement and so Sparhawk, glowing a bright Blue, concentrated and using his Will alone repaired the Earth. The Hellmouths – held in statis in Time by the Creator – had no active power to fight it and they were winked out of existence. A few more deep problems that the Humans were not aware of were also repaired. And finally Bhelliom was satisfied with what was done.

And when Sparhawk was finished, Bhelliom winked in acknowledgement and disappeared back to its journey that had been interrupted.

Harry looked at the remaining PTB and Partners and Allies and said, "Your tools are now broken. Your interference at an end. Your power has been stripped from you." He looked up at the counterparts who watched and called out, "Witness the payment made for defying the Creator and the Creator's Mandate! Sentients MUST be allowed Free Will! Should you think of violating this most fundamental truth, then consider the Lesson that you have observed!"

"You Humans who have profited from assisting these in their crimes, know that your works are also to be undone. The riches and resources you coveted and cosseted away will now be used to strengthen the people of Earth and beyond. Consider this as you arrive at your final destination!"

"Lucifer! They are now yours! Take them!"

With a Satanic grin (one must remember exactly what Being this was) Lucifer took those that were left they would no more trouble the people of Earth. The various dimensional windows closed. The Martyrs were sent on.

Soon, after a few more departures, all that was left were the refugees from the world that the Traveler had brought, the Creator and his Voice, the Scoobies, and the different world leaders.

Buffy looked around and said with a wide grin, "Well then! That's just about everything!"

The Traveler sighed and said, "Not quite."

Worried, Buffy asked, "What's left?"

"One last lesson – and then the future."

"What's the lesson?"

Harry waved his wand and another being appeared. "Buffy? Please explain to the Magicals and the world leaders who is now in front of them?"

Instead of immediately doing as asked Buffy talked to the new arrival. "Hello. What is your name?"

With nervousness the new arrival answered, "Doyle." He looked around and asked, "Why am I here?"

Buffy sighed and replied, "So that I can explain that there are peaceful folks that have been considered Demons but should more properly be referred to as Non-Human Earthlings now." She addressed the Magicals and the leaders. "This is Doyle. He is a Brachen Demon. His people are peaceful and do not attack humans. There are quite a number who that is true for." She turned back to Doyle. "We've just eliminated all the Evil Demons and Vampires from Earth and these new arrivals, who are Magicals, and the World Leaders, need to know that there are peaceful Demons around who just want to live life."

Doyle nodded. "Yeah. We're about live and let live and all of that. We can interbreed with Humans and look Human as needed. We work in different jobs, many go to Church, pay taxes – we're just trying to make a life."

Several of the Magicals and goblins greeting the Brachen. The world leaders watched.

"There is a reason I picked Doyle particularly."

Curious, Buffy asked, "Why?"

"Because, in the Future that will no longer be, Doyle was given Seer powers and worked with Angel and Cordelia against he Demons and Vampired in Los Angeles. IN some futures, they fall in love. In other futures, they don't. With the Demons gone, I will not allow my interference to prevent Free Will. So I suggest the two exchange phone numbers and talk about it when they have time."

Cordelia, who had been surprised, seemed agreeable, as did Doyle. The two did exchange numbers and Doyle was sent back home. It would be up to them as to what happened after.

"Now the future."

With a sense of dread Buffy asked, "What's coming?"

Harry turned and addressed the world leaders. "I have removed most of the impediments that prevent true progress upon Earth. There will be some disagreements and some fighting and even some wars but you now have an opportunity to ensure that the Human race will flourish. But. There are threats that are elsewhere. And they must be considered."

The Pope, who had played his part and had witnessed, asked, "And what are these threats that are coming?"

"Thousands of years ago, Aliens taking the guise of Gods plundered this world. And while the people of Earth rose and threw them off, many of your fellow Humans were taken as slaves to be used and misused by these false Gods. They have been growing in power for thousands of years.

"Through the innocent and grand intentions of the United States Air Force, plus interference from those who have just been sent to their Damnation, those have become aware of Earth and the threat that Earth is to their power.

"The people of Earth are called, by those that are elsewhere, the Tau'ri. You are the descendents of one of the Four Great Races that existed in this and a few other galaxies. One race is gone. One race exists in your ancestry but is sufficiently different that it must be considered a different race, one race has embraced pacifism and will not fight, and the last confronts a threat in their own galaxy and possible extinction due to poor decision making in the past."

Harry addressed Buffy. "I allowed you to call the Slayers because they, properly trained, can provide a counter to those that these false gods have modified and made much stronger. These Jaffe – the people who follow the Goa'uld who are the false Gods – have been modified for the Goa'ulds purposes. Individually, they would crush any normal Human. But facing a Slayer, it would be quite different. And so, besides assisting with the Magical world that is now present upon Earth, I ask that you assist the US Government, and – when they have reached an accord – the combined world governments in fighting the Goa'uld and helping to free tens of millions of your fellow Humans from bondange and slavery."

"Do I have to decide now? I'm going to need to know a lot more to make a decision."

The Traveler nodded. "I know. And so I expect you to learn enough to make that decision when it comes. I am giving you warning that it will be coming."

"Thanks. That's a lot more than those who used to pull my strings used to give me. I appreciate it."

Harry nodded. And waved his Wand.

Another arrival appeared. "Hello Thor of Asgard."

The alien, which reminded many of the stories that they had thought Science Fiction, looked startled at being in a new place. "Hello. To whom am I speaking?"

"You stand, frozen in time, before the Creator and Her Voice, the Religious and some political leaders of Earth, the newly-arrived Magical beings of Earth, the Slayer, and me – who actually is the least important, even though I'm currently running the show."

"Why are you running the show if the Creator stands with us?" he asked curiously, looking around at whom this Creator may be. His questing stopped when he saw the woman who stood mute and the being with Wings next to her. He rightly guessed this was the Creator and he bowed.

"Greetings, Thor of Asgard. Yes, I am the Creator of the many worlds and dimensions, speaking through my Voice, the Metatron. I stand and watch because the one who brought you here is a newly-ascended God who is acting according to My wishes in reordering this dimension after it was found that some had cut if off and usurped My prerogatives. I demanded punishment, and He needed practice. So – here we are."

"And you speak through another because …"

The Traveler chuckled. "A mortal hearing Her voice would have their head explode. It's just too powerful."

Thor nodded and turned to the Traveler. "And you are the newly-ascended God?"

"Marek Ilumian, God of Free Will and Magic."

"Well, then. Greetings. May I be asked why I have been brought?"

The Traveler nodded. "I am here to give you a choice."

"What choice?"

"Life or Death."

Thor considered that. "And shall you bring these to us?"

The Traveler chuckled. "No. I shall only place within your mind the locked information. Which piece unlocks will depend upon the decision of your people. Decide to live, and the knowledge of how to overcome your greatest challenge shall be made known to you, as well as reasons why living can be best choice. Choose to die, and the knowledge of how to best use your deaths to ensure the continued survival of those who will remain to protect will be understood. It will be according to what your people decide."

Thor nodded in acknowledgement. Harry cast the spell which placed the information and then sent Thor back.

Buffy was confused. "Isn't life better than death?"

The Traveler turned. "You'd think so. But there are always reasons to do either. For someone like Thor, who has lived 30,000 years, he might not want to go on. He as reasons to give up. He also has reason to fight. I could cajole or demand or manipulate but, in the end, it is their Free Will."

Buffy nodded. "I get that. But death seems so pointless."

"Let me give you the words that a Warrior group uses to explain Death to those who follow that path. It isn't necessarily that I agree with these – but you can see how such tings can come to be: 'We all die. Only the timing varies. When a Warrior goes into battle, life and death and both just possible consequences neither to be valued or feared above the other. For a Warrior, Death is simply a release from obligation. It is only those who live that can feel fear or the weight of responsibility.' And while you may like it or not, each culture must be allowed their own ways." (Babylon 5, S4 Ep 14)

The Traveler sighed. "I do hope they decide to live and help Earth save the galaxies."

Buffy nodded.

The Traveler clapped his hands. "Okay. No more decision to be made. I will open a portal allowing the magicals to arrive in Sunnydale, as well as the magical creatures. They, of course, may migrate out but that will be as it will be. I recommend that the House Elves help clean up the newly-free upper ground and goblins take care of the areas below ground. Houses need be bought, land properly accounted for, and the goblin bankers who are sent elsewhere will have to begin auditing the records left from the Demons and Angles and their agents that have now been sent on.

"The President will have to send State Department folks to Sunnydale to deal properly with the influx of refugees – thank whoever created the Sunnydale syndrome which will make it far, far easier than it would be otherwise. The Magicals will have to buy and clear the land to put Hogwarts up from the trunk which currently carries it, the Scoobies will need the goblins's help to claim the Watcher's resources and begin building a new Slayer Academy, and there's a whole host of more things that will have to be taken care of.

"The World Leaders will have to deal with the disappearance of the Demons, the influx of the Magicals, and the sudden increased amount of Gold and Silver and other formerly hidden monies that will be floating around in the economy soon.

"You have a lot of work to do, folks. As soon as you arrive, you might want to get to it – or have a nap first and then start working."

Harry opened the portal to Sunnydale and the Magical creatures and beings rushed through. Once they were gone, Harry closed the Portal. Harry then returned the world leaders to their bodies, and then, finally, sent the Scoobies back.

The Phoenixes all disappeared off to wherever they went when they weren't busy.

It would be fun to check in later to see what he had wrought.

Finally, only God, Metatron, and Harry were left. Metatron said, "I will go home and start organizing the legions to ensure no one else has made the same mistake."

God nodded to Metatron and Metatron disappeared.

God blinked and once again he was in a form that Harry was familiar with and the two were seated in a diner. A waitress was bringing pie and milk. "How'd I do, Boss?"

The gothic-looking teenager said, "A bit over the top and overly dramatic in places, but overall?" The Goth kid grinned. "Exceeds Expectations."

Harry grinned in return and the two Deities ate pie.