The group supports the magic users

"It's called the Magnus Tripod," Amy explained.

"I'm familiar with it," Giles agreed. "It's a powerful spell. Likely out of our reach."

"Not if we combine what we're doing," Jenny said as she began to think through the idea. "Yeah, if you didn't have experience with magic, it could easily backfire. Make the situation even worse."

"Good thing we're not foolish enough to make that mistake," Xander mumbled.

They were meeting in Miss Calendar's class and she began to draw on the board. "We need three points and a center focus, so four casting spots. Rupert, Amy, Willow, and me."

"Me?" Willow asked nervously.

"I think you have potential, and we've covered the basics," Jenny said.

"What do we do?" Buffy asked.

"We'll need your support," Amy said. "This spell is best done if you take a lot of time to prep it. Someone will need to bring us supplies."

"Doughnut runs are my thing," Xander said.

"Not just that," Jenny said. "We'll need magic supplies, as well as someone to check in. Possibly we'll also come under attack and need protection."

"And protection is my things," Buffy said.

"Right," Giles said as she looked everything over. "I think we have a plan."

-

"You're taking this pretty well," Buffy said as they walked through the halls.

"Taking what well?"

"Just being helper guy."

"I've always been helper guy," he said as they got to Amy. She took the supplies they had without another word.

"Yeah, but, usually you are more upfront."

"I want to help," he said. "Sure, patrol is more exciting then opening books or carrying around...whatever this smelly weed is. But either way, I'm there."

They were silent as they walked and Buffy thought. He was right. He was always there. Helping out. He hated books, but he researched whenever a threat emerged. He would put himself in danger, they all did that, but he also took on the tasks that he hated. Sure, he'd have a few jokes, but he'd get it done.

"Oh, thanks, Xander," Willow said as she hugged him.

"Geez, Will, nervous much?" he asked.

She laughed, easing the tension. "It's my first big spell."

"Well, you're doing great."

"Thanks," she said as they moved on.

Buffy thought about how supportive he was. He didn't understand a single thing Willow did, but he didn't make fun of her, didn't try and put himself above her. He complimented and encouraged her. He did the most he could with what he had. He wanted more, but that desire didn't cause jealousy or interfere with his ability to get things done.

Unlike someone else she knew.

They stopped by with Miss Calendar and Buffy noticed how her arm lingered on Xander as he gave over the supplies. Apparently Buffy wasn't the only one appreciating his helpful attitude.