Journey Series two
Episode One. A new Journey
By Angelus
Email: webbanglsuk@aol.com
Feedback: Yes please
Distribution: Please help your self
Spoilers: All up to The Gift
Disclaimers: Willow/Tara and the rest of the Buffy gang are the property of Joss Whedon, Mutant Enemy and FOX. I just love to write about their creations, I make no money from this.
Summary: Willow and Tara try to relax as they prepare for the Summer Holidays
Paring: Willow/Tara
Rating: R
Notes: This set after the Journey. As the Gang prepares for the Summer Holidays, Willow and Tara try to relax and reflect on the past few weeks. An old friend of the scoobies returns to Sunnydale.
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Sunnydale USC
Afternoon
A cool breeze blew through the trees leaving a slight chill in the air, the sun was shining but it still felt a little cold. Tara stared up at the branches and watched as the wind softly moved the leaves, she felt totally at peace. She was grateful for a chance to just relax and just admire the beauty around her. She turned her head to she the sleeping figure beside her; she smiled at her redheaded lover. Willow was curled up next to Tara her head resting on the blonde witches’ chest, one arm wrapped around her waist.
Tara watched her for a while, gazing at the beauty of her lover. Willow in the past few weeks had proved to her time and again how much she loved Tara. After her recent run in with Donny and Beth, she knew that Willow and the Scoobies were all the family she needed. But the greatest event of her life so far was that moment when Willow had asked Tara to marry her. She had never felt such joy, in fact until that moment she never thought that such pure and perfect happiness even existed.
Just over a year and a half ago, she would never have dreamed that such happiness could happen to her. Back then she was just a shy girl haunted by her family, and the thought that she was a demon. Now everything had changed, she was human and she had finally found love, a true and perfect love. She moved her head a little so she could see her lover's face. As she moved her head Tara noticed Willow begin to stir awake, Tara sighed. 'Damn I woke her up.'
Willow awoke from her peaceful nap she smiled when she realised the she was lying on her lover. She moved her head up and her eyes met a smile that just melted her heart.
"Hey you." Tara said softly, "Sorry for disturbing you sweetie."
Willow returned the smile; a warm glow surging though her as felt her lovers gaze upon her.
"I don't mind being disturbed if I can wake up to that smile everytime." Willow said. She moved her arm and she slowly sat up on one arm, leaning across she gently kissed Tara on the lips. The taste of her lover intoxicated her Willow pressed her lips a little firmer, Tara responded by gently probing Willow's mouth with her tongue, the sensations ran wild through them. After a few minutes the broke away breathless.
"Wow." Willow said. "That was magic."
"So are you Willow." Tara said a huge smile on her face.
Willow reached across and gently ran her hand down the blonde’s face; her hand followed her curve of her neck. As she move her hand down the contours of Tara's body her hand gently brushed against one of her breasts.
"Oh Willow." Tara sighed, she felt her hand gently caress her, she allowed a soft gasp to escape her lips as Willow's hand continued downwards and settled on Tara's stomach.
Willow leaned back a little and smiled at her fiancée, her hand still on her lover's stomach.
"I promise you more later." Willow said, a wicked grin on her face.
"I can't wait." Tara said.
Tara lay her head back down on the blanket and stared up again at the branches swaying in the trees, she closed her eyes for a second and took a deep breath, a smile across her face. She then opened her eyes and breathed out. Willow watched her for a moment watching her lover; she then lay her head back against Tara’s shoulder.
“Whatcha thinking about?” The redhead asked.
“You.” Tara answered her.
“Me, why?” Willow whispered to her softly.
Tara turned her head to face her lover; she smiled warmly at her. “About how much I love you, how much you have made a difference in my life and about the future.” Tara paused for a moment. “Oh Willow, I have only known you for a since just over a year and a half. But I feel like I have been in love with you forever.”
Willow’s gently sat up and faced her lover, her hand reached out and softly caressed the blonde’s hair. “Tara that is so sweet.”
Tara placed her own hand on Willow’s; she gently gave her hand a little squeeze. She looked deep into Willow’s eyes and smiled, she just wanted to stare at her lover for a moment taking in every line and curve of her sweet face.
"Willow, I love you so much, your in my every thought and dream. When I close my eyes all I want to see is you." Tara said. "I remember you saying that I was your always."
Willow's smiled faded for a moment at that thought, she remembered saying just after Tara's mind had been drained by Glory. Those memories of Tara while she was injured still brought a few nightmares. Tara noticed the frown on her lover's face, she sat up and reached out and softly touched her lover’s shoulder.
"Willow, what's the matter." Tara said concerned at her.
"It's nothing Tara, it's just when I said that you had been hurt." Willow said.
"Willow, hey I'm okay now, you brought me back, you found me." Tara said, her fingers gently toying with Willows soft red hair.
Willow smiled a little, she remembered the moment when Tara opened her eyes and she was back to normal, her mind restored. "Sorry I just hated seeing you like that." She said. Willow cleared the memory from her mind and focused her thoughts on the present. Tara was safe her mind intact, and they where together. She gazed into the blonde’s eyes, Willow could almost swear they where glowing.
Tara reached forward and kissed her, Willow instantly felt a huge surge a warmth flow though her. They pulled away and Willow just smiled at her.
"Tara, go on." She said.
"What I was saying is that Your my always as well Willow." Tara said. "I love you."
Willow was crying now, but not for sadness they where for happiness, her heart sang with joy. Tara pulled the redhead close and embraced her lover hold her tight against her body. Willow's arms wrapped around the blonde wiccans body, she just wished that this moment would last forever. They stayed like that for sometime, each girl unwilling to break the embrace, their love binding them together.
"Hey guy's." Came a voice. "Oh sorry."
Willow reluctantly broke the embrace, and turned to see Oz.
"Hey." She said smiling.
"Hello Oz." Tara said, she was a little embarrassed at Oz catching them in an embrace. "Um how are you." She asked.
"I'm good." He said simply. "You?"
"I-I-I'm okay thank you." Tara replied.
Willow managed a small smile for her former boyfriend. "I'm great thanks." She thought for a moment. "What's up?"
"Nothing much, I was wondering if you guy's where free this weekend, I'm kinda back with the dingoes. We have a gig Friday evening at the bronze." He said to them both. Oz felt a little guilty at interrupting a private moment between his ex-girlfriend and her lover, he looked at both girls and smiled. "I'm sorry for interrupting."
"It's okay Oz." Willow said, and turned to Tara. "Do you wanna go Tara?" She asked her fiancée.
"I've never seen them play, sure why not." Tara said.
Willow smiled at the blonde and kissed her, she the turned back to Oz who looked a little embarrassed at seeing them kissing in public. "Okay we'll be there." She said to him.
"Cool, I'll see you both Friday evening then." Oz said. "I'd better go, I have meet up for rehearsal in an hour we need to get a few days practise in first." He added quickly, he felt that both girls where enjoying a private moment between them, and he thought it was best to leave them to it. Oz smiled at both girls and spoke. "Bye." He then turned around and walked back in the direction of his dorm.
"Bye Oz." Both girls called after him as he left.
They both watched him for a few moments as he walked towards his dorm, Willow took Tara's hand again. She faced her and said. "It's strange having him around."
"Why?" Tara said to her.
Willow noticed the slight worried look on the blonde’s face; she looked at her and spoke. "It reminds me of the old days, of when Buffy was alive." Willow said a slight tone of sadness in her voice. "I just wish Buffy were alive to share in our happiness."
Tara reached up and gently touched stroked her cheek with her hand, as Tara's hand reached her lower jaw Willow turned and kissed her fingers. Tara pulled the redhead close and kissed her.
"I know Willow." She said her voice soothing. "I-I wish she were here too."
Willow gazed once more into Tara's eyes; she took the blonde’s hand. "You're doing it again Tara." She said.
Tara looked at her a little puzzled. "What?"
"Cheering me up again." Willow said to her. "Thank you."
"You're welcome." The blonde said, her smile full of love.
Willow looked up at the sky, she noticed that the light was beginning to fade. The day was nearly over; she turned back to face her lover. "Tara, It's getting a little chilly now, let’s get back to the dorm. "We can snuggle inside."
"Good idea." Tara agreed, noting how cold it become as the sun was now setting. Both girls stood up and Tara bent down to pick up the blanket they had been lying on. Willow couldn't resist giving her lover a little slap on her bottom.
"Willow!" She said somewhat startled.
"Sorry Tara I couldn't resist it." Willow giggled. "I just saw your shapely butt and I just had to do that."
"Feeling a little frisky are we?" Tara said grinning as the redhead. "Maybe it's not a good idea to snuggle." She added her face trying to be serious.
"Who me?" Said Willow who was trying her best to look shy and innocent.
Now it was Tara's turned to giggle at Willow's attempt for a shy look. Willow decided to try pouting instead as that often worked on Tara. It did as Tara reached forward and kissed her full on the lips, Tara dropped the blanket to the ground and wrapped her arms around the redhead. She when placed one hand on Willow bum and gave it a gently squeeze.
"Tara!" Willow said. "Now who’s being frisky."
They both giggled, and decided to get back to the dorm before things went a little to far in public. Tara picked up the blanket again linked arms with her lover and they began walking briskly back towards Stevenson Hall and the privacy of their dorm.
***********************
Giles Apartment
Early Evening
Giles opened the door to his apartment and stepped inside, he placed his luggage by the stairs and turned around. He shut the door and walked to his sofa, he collapsed into the soft cushions exhausted. He had only just arrived back in Sunnydale after spending two weeks in England having to deal with the aftermath of the slayers death. He had been Buffy's watcher; he was responsible for her. Now she was dead, Buffy had given her life to save them all and especially her sister Dawn.
He was back now but for how long he didn't know; the watchers council had yet to decide his future. He did feel that his time in Sunnydale would be coming to an end, but at least for now he had been allowed back.
Giles looked over at the table and saw the light flashing on his ansaphone, he stood and walked to the table. He saw only one new message on the machine; he pushed the button to hear it.
"Hello Giles, its Angel. I need you to contact me as soon as you get this message, We have something we need to talk about." The line crackled a little indicating that Angel had not yet hung up. "Um Cordelia how do I finish this."
"Angel just put the phone done." Giles heard Cordelia say. Then the machine beeped again to signal that the message had finished.
Giles smiled a little, Angel was a good fighter but technology always seemed to baffle him. He picked up the phone and dialled the number.
"Hello Angel investigations, we help the hopeless." Said a familiar voice.
"Hello Cordelia, it's Giles, can I speak to Angel please." He said
"Hi Giles, how are you." She said.
"I'm fine, you."
"Okay I guess, I am sorry about Buffy." Cordelia said to him.
"Thank you." He replied simply.
"Here's Angel." She said.
"Hello Giles."
"Good evening Angel, what did can I do for you." Giles said.
"Giles, I am afraid that I have some disturbing news."
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214 Stevenson
Later
Willow lay on the bed waiting for Tara to return from the bathroom, she had changed into just a nightshirt whilst Tara had disappeared. Willow hated her lover being gone from her sights for more than a few minutes. Tara had now been gone for almost half and hour. The door opened and Tara walked in, she walked over to the bed and kissed Willow on the lips.
"Sorry I took so long, I just wanted to take a shower." Tara said.
"I missed you sweetie." Willow said to her.
"I wasn't gone long but I missed you too Willow." The Blonde said smiling at her. "What’s brought this on?" She asked.
"Hey, it's our first night alone together in over two weeks, I was kinda hoping for snuggles." Willow said a wicked smile forming on her lips.
Tara sat down on the bed beside her; she ran her hand through Willow's hair softly caressing the strands with her fingers. Willow closed her eyes for a moment as se felt her fiancée touching her hair; she sighed at her lover touch.
"That feels so nice." Willow said sensually.
Willow sat up on the bed and reached out to take Tara's hand, she gently pulled her to her. Tara smiled sweetly at her lover, Willow reached out and placed a finger on Tara's lips Tara kissed her lovers finger.
"So what do we do now then?" Asked the blonde, smiling shyly.
Willow gently bit her lower lip, and smiled at her. "Make love to me Tara." She said softly.
"For you my sweet anything." Tara said, and she gently pulled her lover closer.
From the gleam in her lover’s eye Willow could tell that this was going to be a long night for them both, and she was going to savour every moment of their lovemaking.
****************
The next Morning
Tara woke up as the suns rays penetrated the room through a break in the curtains, she blinked her eyes at the bright light and turned her head to face her lover. The pillow next to her was empty, Tara sat up and looked around the room for any sign of her lover, and she swung her legs out of bed and got up. She saw the hand-written note on the edge of the bed, picking it up she read it.
'Tara, gone for coffee, back in a moment I didn't want to wake you. Besides you looked way to cute sleeping. Love Willow."
Tara smiled, she placed the note back on the bed and walked over to the door, she took the dressing gown off the hook and put it on to cover her naked form. She opened the door and peeked outside into the hallway to see if see could spot her lover. Disappointed that Willow was nowhere to be seen she closed the door, and went back to the bed. Removing her gown she stretched out on the bed, and lay back hoping Willow would return soon.
Suddenly the door opened and a drunken young man and his girlfriend entered the room, he caught one glimpse of Tara's naked body and went wide-eyed.
"Bloody hell, nice body love." He leered at her.
"George, you pervert get out of here." Said the Brunette who was with him.
Tara quickly pulled the bedcover over herself as, her face bright red at being seen naked by a total stranger.
"G-g-get out." She shouted at them.
The brunette mumbled an apology at the embarrassed blonde, and dragged her boyfriend out of the dorm and she closed the door.
Tara hid herself under the bed covers, she was mortified at two people bursting in and seeing her nude, and only Willow was allowed to her like that.
"Oh god, oh my god." She said to herself. "I can't believe it."
She heard the door open again, this time she stayed under the covers, not wanting to risk another stranger seeing her.
"Tara, what are you doing hiding under the bed covers, something kinky?" Tara heard the voice of her returning lover. However she was still too embarrassed to show her face.
Willow smiled at seeing the strange Tara shaped cover on the bed, placing the coffee and bagels on the table she sat on the bed and pulled the covers back. Willow noticed the reddened face of her lover and her smile turned to concern.
"Tara honey, what's wrong?" She said.
"Oh god Willow, I-I was lying on the bed and t-t-two people burst in." Tara her voice stammering a little.
"Oh my god, did they hurt you?" Willow said her voice becoming angry.
"No no, t-t-they just saw me in the n-n-nude." She said her face still a very bright red. "Oh god Willow, I have never been so embarrassed in my life."
"Did they say anything to you." Willow said, she pulled the blonde into a hug. Part of her found it a little funny, but she hated to see Tara so upset.
"N-not much, the man said I had a nice body." She said, her voice still a little shaky.
Willow smiled to herself for a second; suddenly she started to giggle.
"Willow, please." Tara said, a little shocked at seeing Willow giggling while she was still in shock.
Willow stopped herself and smiled at Tara. "I'm sorry baby, but he did have a point, you do have a very nice body." She said. "You have the body of a goddess." Willow said to smiling hopefully that Tara would forgive her for giggling.
Tara stared at her for a moment; she saw Willow's smile become a pout. Tara shook her head and smiled at her fiancée.
"I have the body of Goddess?" Tara said to her.
"Defiantly Tara." Willow said. "My goddess."
Tara started to giggle now; she pulled Willow close and kissed her passionately on the lips. Tara felt a lot better now, Willow could see that in her face, her cheeks were still a little flushed, but at least she could see the funny side of it.
"Willow, you're my goddess too. My sweet beautiful sexy goddess." She said and quickly kissed her lover again.
"Cool we're both goddesses." Willow said.
"I'm happy with that." Tara said laughing; she had almost completely forgotten the earlier incident with the two strangers. She smiled warmly at her fiancée. "Thanks Willow.
"Anytime lover." Willow said grinning. "So do you want a little brekky first or should we snuggle."
Tara thought for a moment and grinned at the redhead, she defiantly wanted to snuggle, but her stomach’s growling had got her attention.
"I am hungry Willow, so lets have something to eat." She said. "Then we can snuggle. Okay"
"Oh yes." Willow said, grinning at Tara with wicked intent. "Now that's a good plan."
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Giles Apartment.
Giles sat down at the news had just been given; he looked up to into Angel's eyes. The blank expression on the vampire's face confirmed it.
"So you absolutely sure it means to kill them?" He said again. "Why?"
"I don't know, but my friend Whistler said it was because they pose a great threat to him." Angel said.
"I still don't understand why it wants to kill Willow and Tara, they are only young girls." He stopped himself a moment. "Well I admit they are powerful witches."
Angel thought for a while, he nodded and faced Giles. "I think they may becoming more powerful, and that's why he wants them dead." He paused for a moment. "Whistler did say something else, he said that they are important in a coming battle, other than that I don't know."
"I see." Giles said. It was true that Willow in recent months had begun to show signs of great power, but it wasn't sure about Tara. Yes she was powerful but she hadn't showed much of it recently. Then again both she and Willow where very close so Tara's powers may begin to grow.
"That's why I decided to drive here straight away." Angel said.
Giles stood up. "Thanks for getting here so quickly, I just hope we're in time to get them out of Sunnydale before this Katiur shows up. I'd better contact them." He said and reached for the phone.
*******************
Later that morning.
Willow and Tara's room
"Oh hell, we got crumbs in the bed." Willow said. "Drat and darn it."
"Never mind sweetie, we have to change the sheets anyway." Tara said.
"I know we did kinda get carried away after breakfast." Willow said a naughty gleam in her eye. She giggled at her lover and playfully slapped Tara's bum.
"Willow! Are you getting a obsession with my butt." Tara laughed.
"Uh huh, is that such a crime." Willow said grinning.
Tara burst into giggles; her laughter was interrupted as the phone rang. Willow walked to the table and answered it.
"Hello." She said cheerfully.
"Willow, it Giles here."
"Giles your back." Willow said. "Wow nice to hear from you, how did everything go." She began to babble. "Hey when did you get back, and why didn’t you call us to let us know you where safe."
Tara smiled as she watched Willow in full babble mode; it was one of many things that Tara adored about her.
"Willow!" He said interrupting her babbling.
"Sorry, I guess I was rambling again. What can I do for you?" She apologised.
"Is Tara with you?" He asked her.
"Yes she is, why?" Willow said, she gave Tara a puzzled look.
"Good." There was a pause for a moment. "Can you both get over here fast, we have to talk."
"Sure, what's up?" Willow asked him.
"I can't say in the phone, please just get here as soon as possible." He said.
"Okay we're on our way." Willow said. "Bye."
"Goodbye, and please hurry." He said and put the phone down.
Willow turned to Tara a concerned look on her face; Tara walked over and put one arm around the redhead’s shoulder.
"What is it Willow, what's wrong." The blonde asked her lover.
"I-It was Giles, he said we'd better get over there right away." Willow said to her. "I don't know why but it sounded pretty urgent."
"Oh god, I guess we'd better go." Tara said.
She picked up a coat from where closet and handed it to Willow, she put her own coat on and they both left for Giles apartment.
*****************
An Hour later
Giles Apartment
Giles glanced at his watch; he had begun pacing the room short time after he had put the phone from speaking with Willow. Angel sat on the sofa he remained calm, although seeing the former watcher this nervous was beginning to get to him.
A knock at the door brought Giles to his senses, he quickly rushed to the door to see the two witches standing there hand in hand.
"Come in both of you." He said.
The girls stepped inside and Giles slammed the door behind them making both Willow and Tara jump.
"Hey Giles why so jumpy?" Willow said, slightly irritated at having the door slammed hard just behind her.
"Hello Mr Giles." Tara said politely
"Hello, I'm sorry about all this but we needed to see you both right away." He said, his eyes looked red and tired, it was obvious that he hadn't slept.
"Okay so what's happening to get you all wiggy?" Willow asked him. "And whose we?"
Angel stood up and turned to face the witches, he managed a small smile, and then he returned to his customary frown.
“Hey Angel.” Willow said. “Good to see you, but what’s up with the extra broody look.”
Angel looked at them both and spoke. "Willow, Tara you're both in great danger, a demon called Katiur as been summoned to kill you both."
"Oh!"
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Journey Series two
Episode Two, Running
By Angelus
Email: webbanglsuk@aol.com
Feedback: Yes please
Rating R
Distribution: Please help your self
Spoilers: All up to The Gift
Disclaimers: Willow/Tara and the rest of the Buffy gang are the property of Joss Whedon, Mutant Enemy and FOX. I just love to write about their creations, I make no money from this.
Summary: Willow and Tara are forced to flee Sunnydale
Paring: Willow/Tara
Notes: This set after the Journey. Angel informs the Witches that they have a destiny and that a new demon has been summoned to kill them.
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Giles Apartment
"Oh!"
Willow took a hold of Tara's hand; she looked nervously at the vampire that had just given them the news that a demon was hunting them.
"Why us." Willow asked him. "Why does it want to kill us, w-what have we done to it."
Angel approached the two wiccans; he glanced at the floor and then back to the witches. "I am not sure of the details, all I know is that this demon Katiur wants you two dead."
"How do you know this and are you sure it's us?" Willow said to him. "I-I mean there are hundreds of witches in the world, why me and Tara."
"You two are both special according to a friend of mine, he said two witches one of red and one of blonde are bonding. They are joining in both heart and mind, body and soul." Angel told them. "He said something about that your love for one another will bring you both into a source of power that threatens the demon world. I guess that frightens them."
"Us frighten someone!" Willow said incredibly. "Oh please, I mean do we look scary to you."
Angel looked at both Willow and Tara, admittedly to the eye they looked like perfectly ordinary girls. "No." He answered them truthfully.
"Well then." Willow said.
Giles faced the two girls, the worry on his face showing. "Willow recently you have begun to demonstrate a lot of powerful magic. The incident with Glory, and then that barrier spell against the knights." He placed his hand on her shoulder. "Not to mention you reversal spell you did to restore Tara."
Willow could sense Tara becoming a little uncomfortable at the mention of Glory and the mind suck. She wrapped a protective arm around the blonde witches waist, Willow felt Tara relax a little at her touch.
Tara decided to speak up. "W-what about me, I-I-I mean my magic is not that powerful compared to Willow's."
"Tara, don't be silly you are a powerful witch." Willow said. "I can feel it in you Tara, your power is going to grow." She added with total sincerity.
"Willow?" Tara said to her.
"Tara, I don't know how but I can sense it." Willow said to her. "I know you can too, just reach down inside yourself."
Tara nodded her head and she closed her eyes, she concentrated on her own life force within. She could feel the power there, but there was something else inside her spirit. Tara smiled a little as she saw what it was that would release that power.
"Willow, it's you." Tara said. "You're inside of me, in my spirit it's our love that is making us stronger." She turned to face her lover and kissed her. "Oh Willow, I love you."
Both witches could sense the awkward stares in the room from Angel and Giles; they turned to face them.
"Oops." Willow said. "Sorry, I guess we got carried away."
Tara blushed a little, as did her fiancée; they both looked at each other and grinned. Angel stepped forward and the witches turned to him.
"I think that is why Katiur has been summoned, apart from each other your magic is powerful. But together your magic must be incredible." Angel said to them. "Whistler said that you are bonding closer."
Willow looked at him a little puzzled for a moment, Tara thought for a moment and she realised what he meant. She took Willow's left hand held it up to show Angel; she then raised her own hand.
"We are bonding closer because of these." She said.
Angel stared the beautiful engagement rings on the wiccans fingers and nodded, this was part of the bonding. The rings symbolised their love for one another; there was no closer union of lover than this. Together they’re love would grow as would their magic, Angel smiled a little at this. True love was one of the most powerful magic’s ever and it was clear to him that Willow and Tara where very much in love.
"Yes." He said. "The rings are only symbols, but in you're hearts you are already becoming one with each other."
"It does make sense." Giles added in agreement. "So what now?"
Angel turned to him. "We need to get them out of Sunnydale fast, take them somewhere safe for a while."
"We can't just leave, what about Dawnie and Xander." Willow said.
"Honey, you forgot Anya." Tara added.
Willow giggled for a moment. "True how could anyone forget her."
Angel shook his head, both girls where facing danger from a demon intent on killing them and here they where making jokes. He didn't understand humans sometimes, how they could laugh in the face of danger. He took another step forward
"Willow, Tara please, I don't know where this demon is, please we need to get you out of Sunnydale now." Angel said to them, the tone of his voice serious.
Willow turned to him giving the vampire a look, which made him recoil. "Why should we flee, he'll only try to find us. If we stay here at least we might be able to stop it, besides your here you can help." Willow said to him. "I don't want to leave here."
Tara too felt that leaving Sunnydale would not help them, if this demon were summoned to kill them surely it would try to track them down. No matter where they went it could probably find them. She certainly didn't want to leave Willow's side; she couldn't bear to be apart from her lover. They had come too far now; they had given themselves to each other body and soul. Tara knew that she loved Willow beyond all else in this life, and she knew that Willow felt the same.
Willow could sense Tara's feeling's and she turned her head and smiled at the blonde wiccan. Smiling she clasped her hand a little tighter, Tara returned the smile.
"Tara I know." She said. "I couldn't bear to be without you either."
"I love you Willow." Tara said.
"I love you too." Willow replied and kissed her lover again, not giving a damn about anyone else looking at them.
Angel looked a little puzzled at Willow and Tara, he was certain Tara had said nothing to Willow a moment ago, but Willow seemed to answer her.
"Willow how did you know what Tara said?" He asked her.
"Sometimes I can sense her thoughts and feelings." She answered him. "I guess as we have become closer, a link has developed between us." She smiled at the blonde, who returned it.
Giles nodded his agreement. "Yes, I would say that is true, you two are close in more ways than one."
Angel thought for a moment, this link between them was fascinating but he was concerned that they where not taking him seriously. Giles had explained to him about the emergence of Willow's powers during the recent battles with Glory, so he knew she was powerful. However the demon know as Katiur was known to be a very dangerous assassin and he had never failed to kill his intended targets.
"Willow, all I am suggesting is that we leave town for a while, perhaps you two can find out more about each other, find out a way to defeat him." The vampire said to them. "I know running away is not the best answer but at least it gives us a little more time."
Giles nodded. "I agree with Angel on this, I have looked up a little about Kaitur and he is a deadly assassin. Please both of you listen to reason about this."
Willow rolled her eyes at them, she knew they where not going to give up about this, she did however like the idea of hiding alone with Tara. Maybe they could explore the magical link forming between them. Also if she could help Tara to grow as a witch when perhaps they could find a way to defeat this demon. She did allow herself a smile at the thought of spells with her lover, her smile broadened into a grin not all the spells they enjoyed together used any magic other than love.
Tara noticed the grin on the redhead’s face; she leaned forward and whispered into her lover's ear. "Willow, what are you thinking."
Willow face and simply said. "Guess."
Tara closed her eyes for a moment and focused her mind of her lover, after a few seconds Tara could sense what Willow was thinking about, the blonde's face blushed at the naughty thoughts within the redhead’s mind. She giggled a little and wrapped an arm around the hacker’s waist.
"I would like that a lot." She said. "Do you promise?"
"Oh yes." Willow said, a wicked smile on her lips.
Angel shook his head again they were at it again, he faced them both. "Willow, Tara please we must go."
Willow rolled her eyes again. "Fine we'll go, I still don't like running though."
"Good, I'll get transport organised." Giles said to them. He reached for the phone and picked it up. "Hello, Oz"
****************
The Magic Shop
"So where are they?" Xander said, his voice showing his irritation. "They were supposed to be here by now."
"I don't know Xander, probably still in bed having sex." Anya said. "You know it was their first night alone for a while."
Xander turned to Anya, as a few images flashed across his mind. He quickly shook his head of the image, it wasn't right to think of his best friend and her lover like that. Although he allowed a smile to creep across his face at the thoughts. Anya noticed the sly grin on her fiancé’s face.
"Ow." Xander exclaimed as he felt her hand connect with his arm. "What was that for An."
"You were thinking about Willow and Tara having sex again." Anya said to him, the tone of her voice cold.
They where interrupted by the phone ringing, Anya threw Xander another cold glare before she picked up the phone.
"Hello Magic shop." She said cheerfully.
"Anya, is Giles here, is Xander with you?"
"Giles, you're back. Yes he's here, do you want to speak to him?" She asked.
"Yes please." Giles said
"Okay." Anya beckoned Xander and held out the phone for him.
"Well hello it's G man back from England." He said. "How are you?"
"Xander, we have a problem. A demon has been summoned to kill Willow and Tara, Angel and Oz are taking them away from Sunnydale for a while." He said.
"A demon, what demon. Are they both okay?" He said his voice showing fear and concern.
"They're fine Xander." Giles said. "Both of them are here with me. Listen Xander I will be along later, we need to do a little more research in this Katiur demon.” He paused. “Katiur is an assassin.”
"Giles, first day back and we have to do research." Xander groaned.
"Xander please Willow and Tara's lives are in danger." Giles said.
"Yeah, sorry."
"I see you soon." With that Giles hung up.
Xander turned to face his lover, a worried look on his face. Why was it always happening to them? First Tara was mind was drained by Glory, then Buffy died. Willow and Tara tried to get away on holiday and Tara was kidnapped. It seemed they never had much luck lately, and now a demon was after the two witches.
"Xander, what’s wrong." Anya said, she could see the concern on his face.
"An. Willow and Tara have to get out of town, a demon is after them."
"What is it with those two, do they just attract trouble?" She said.
"It does seem that way." He said. "Giles is stopping by later, I think he needs us to look up some info on this demon."
"Great, he's only just back and already he wants us to look up stuff." Anya. "We cannot win."
"Anya, this is important, Willow and Tara are in danger." He said.
Anya sighed and nodded, she knew Xander would be very worried about Willow, after al he had known her since she was a kid. She was also aware that he was fond of Tara as well. Anya didn't feel threatened by the witches, she knew that they only had eyes for each other. Xander was madly in love with her and they where engaged to be married. She looked at him and tried to smile.
"I'm sure they'll be fine, Xander. " She said to him.
"I hope so, Giles said Angel and Oz will be taking care of them." He said. "I guess they will be okay."
**************************
Giles Apartment.
"Wow, this is intense." Oz said. "Are you two like trouble magnets."
"Oz, please this is serious." Angel said. "Katiur means to kill them."
Oz turned to Angel; he saw the serious look on the vampires face. He could tell that he was anxious to get the two wiccans away from Sunnydale as quickly as possible.
"Sorry Angel." Oz apologised. He turned back to face the witches; they looked unconcerned at all the fuss. "Well I guess we'd better get you two outta here."
Tara looked at Willow and pointed to the clothes they where wearing, Willow nodded and smiled at her lover.
"Um guy's, Willow and I need a few clothes first, we have only these." Tara said as she indicated the clothes they had on.
Willow giggled and said. "Well I for one am not wandering around nude."
Angel looked up at the ceiling. "Fine will stop by your dorm and pick up a few items, but please can we go now."
"Um Mr Angel, it's still daylight outside." Tara said to him.
"It's okay, I have this he can use." Giles told them as he held up one of Spike's shrouds. "Oz why don't you get the van."
"No problem, I'll be back in about half an hour." Oz said, he walked to the door and opened it. Turning back to the witches, he smiled at them. "Don't worry, I won't be long." He nodded at them and then left closing the door behind him.
Willow turned to her fiancée and grinned. “I’m not worried, as long as you're with me Tara I know we can face anything." She reached over and pulled the blonde close.
Tara lowered her eyes at the redhead and smiled shyly at her, she leaned forward and kissed her. "Willow, I never worry when I'm with you." She said her eyes full of love. "I love you Willow."
"I love you too Tara." Willow said.
Angel shook his head and looked at Giles, the former watcher managed a weak smile. He vampire leaned forward and spoke quietly. "Are they always like that?" He asked
"Yes, even more so they got engaged." Giles said. "Still with all the death and mayhem around, it's wonderful that love survives. And they do love each other."
"I guessed that." Angel said. "I just wish I could know true love." He added sadly.
"Maybe one day Angel." Giles said to him. He felt a pang of sympathy for the vampire, Angel once found love but it had cost him his soul. Now he had to live with the fact that any moment of true happiness would turn him back into an evil monster.
Angel turned his head to see the two witches still embracing one another, he felt happy for them and he admitted they where well suited together. When Willow came to LA to tell him of Buffy's death, she had brought Tara with her. Cordelia had pointed out to him that the shy blonde girl was Willow's girlfriend. To Cordelia's surprise the revelation that Willow was gay did not seem to bother the vampire. He just knew that Willow was in love with this girl and that was all that mattered.
"I hope so Giles." He said quietly. "Right now though I just hope we can protect them from the demon."
Giles nodded in agreement. "I just wonder where this Katiur is."
**********
San Francisco.
A dark figure watched the daily grind of the humans; it was amazed that these simple creatures could survive at all. They where weak and often very easy to kill, it's pale gold eyes scanned the alley way for a victim. It was hungry and needed a fresh liver to feed on. It had been summoned a few days ago from a demon dimension, summoned to kill two simple witches. It was irritated at having to just kill two girls, it wanted a challenge to test its strength in combat, not just assassinate two young witches.
All it knew was that the firm wanted them dead, and it was willing to pay well for the bodies of the witches to be delivered to them. A grin appeared across its leathery lipless mouth, it would soon find them. It had been told that the girls could be found a small town in California, but not which town. It preferred that anyway, as it would allow a chance for a chase and the thrill of the hunt.
Suddenly it's head rotated around as it heard a noise behind it. It moved into the shadows a little as it saw the figure of a man approach its position. The man stumbled towards the spot where the demon had stood.
"Bloody hell, I need another drink." The man said, his voice slurred from alcohol.
Katiur watched the strange human as he came closer; it felt that this was a good opportunity to feed. It stepped out in front the man and brought its arms up in front of the human, revealing a pair of hands with huge serrated claws on.
"What the F-” He man began to say, but he was cut off as the claws pierced his belly. The man looked down in time to witness the hand withdraw from his torso clutching some bloody. That was his last sight, as he collapsed to the ground dead. Katiur brought his blood-soaked up and began to feed. It didn't take long to finish the meal and it soon turned its attention back to the task at hand.
"Soon witches, I will find you." Katiur hissed. "And when I do I will feed upon you as well."
**************
Sunnydale
Outside Giles apartment.
Giles stood waiting for any sign of Oz and his van, he had been gone now for well over an hour and the former watcher was becoming impatient. He turned to the two girls beside him.
"Oz should be here by now." He said. "He said he was only going to be half an hour."
Willow sighed and looked at him. "Don't get all wiggy again, he'll be here." She turned to Tara and smiled warmly at her lover. "Maybe we should think of this as fun trip."
"I-I-I don't know Willow. Angel and Mr Giles seem to be concerned at this demon." Tara said.
Willow wrapped her arm around the blonde’s waist; Tara smiled and placed her own arm around the hacker. Willow placed her head on Tara's shoulder and whispered into her ear.
"Don't worry Tara, we'll find a way to defeat it together. And then I can promise major smoochies." The redhead said to her.
"Smoochies sounds good, but I might also want snuggles as well." Tara said, a slight gleam in her eyes.
"Snuggles and smoochies, well I don't know." Willow paused for a moment a grin on her face. "Well okay then." She said and giggled.
Giles groaned again, would those two ever leave each other alone. After a few moments he knew that the answer was no. Besides they need to work together on this, they where bonding closer and a link was forming between them. Together their powers would grow, and then they might be able to defeat this demon and who or what ever had summoned it in the first place.
He turned his head slightly to see the two witches, they where now facing each other staring at each other. Both girls seemed to be lost in each other’s eyes, he noticed the subtle way that Willow was caressing her lovers arm. Giles had to admit that he had never seen a couple so devoted to one another. It was true that they where soulmates. His thoughts where interrupted as she saw a blue van approach, it pulled up to the kerb and the door opened to reveal Oz.
"Hey Guys, ready?" He said.
"Oz, what took you so long?" Giles said. "You've been gone over an hour."
"Sorry, I stopped by their dorm and bundled a few things in the van, I thought it would save time." He said. “Besides I had to mask up the inside so Angel would be safe.”
"How did you get in?" Willow asked him.
Oz held up a key. "I used to have a key remember."
"Oh, I forgot." Willow said as she remembered that her former lover had a key to the dorm. She turned to Tara and whispered in her ear. “Time to get the locks changed, methinks.”
Tara nodded her head; she certainly didn’t want anyone else bursting in on her. She had already had one incident this morning. “Thanks Sweetie.” She said.
Oz opened the side door and stepped into van, he beckoned the two girl’s forward and showed them the inside. He had placed a carpet on the floor of the van, and a few bean bag seats to try and make it a little more comfortable for the witches. He had rigged a light in the back as well so they could see, as Oz needed to black out the windows for Angel. He didn’t want the vampire bursting into flames at any point.
“Well this is it I guess, step aboard ladies.” He said. “I put your clothes in the two bags over there, I just grabbed a few items so I hope it’s okay.”
“Thanks Oz.” Willow said smiling. “I’m sure we’ll be fine.”
Willow stepped into the back of the van; she pulled the two of the beanies together and turned to her lover. “Tara, our chariot awaits.” She said smiling.
Tara grinned and stepped in and sat down next to Willow, she looked at Oz and smiled. “Thanks Oz.”
“Anytime.” He said.
A few moments later, Giles appeared with a cloaked figure beside him. Wispy trails of smoke where billowing off from the shrouded figure. Both girls giggled as Angel jumped into the van and ducked down out of the sunlight. Oz stepped out of the van and closed the door; at least Angel would be safe now.
Giles faced Oz, he still looked concerned at the fact that Willow and Tara had to leave town, but he at least they would be safe until they where ready to face the demon. He looked back to the van and back again to Oz. “Take care of them.”
“I will.” He said.
“I don’t want to lose them. I’ve already lost enough.” Giles said to him, his voice tinged with sadness. He remembered the loss of Buffy a few weeks back, he certainty didn’t want to lose Willow and Tara as well.
“I know.” Oz said simply.
“Do you have any idea where to go?” Giles asked.
“No, I just thought we might head off in that way.” Oz said, pointing towards the road. “I think I just drive south and see where we end up.”
“Probably better that way.” He said. “Just be careful.”
“I will.”
Oz walked around to the driver’s side and got in, he nodded at Giles and started the engine. Giles watched as the van pulled away and drove off.
“Be safe.” He said quietly and watched as the van disappeared from view. Sighing to himself he turned around and walked back to his apartment. He need to get a few things together and then head to the Magic Shop, where Xander and Anya were in for an interesting day of research. At least he would be able to watch Xander squirm at the thought of browsing through his library of books.
******************
Back of the Van
Willow was still giggling at Angel as he removed the smoking shroud, the vampire looked a little hot under the collar. Tara just smiled; she thought is was funny but decided to keep quiet.
“Mr Angel are you okay.” Tara inquired.
“Fine, thank you.” He said. “And please it’s just Angel.”
Willow settled down in her beanie and pulled Tara close, the blonde lay back as best as she could and rested her head against her lover’s shoulder. Willow lightly kissed her on the forehead, and gently began to stroke her hair.
“This is going to be an interesting trip.” Willow said. “I still don’t like the idea of running away though.” She added glancing at the vampire huddled in the back of the van.
“I hope so.” Tara said. “At least we are together, and maybe we can learn a little more about our link with one another.”
“That will be cool.” Willow nodded slowly. “I like the together part.”
Tara smiled into her lover’s eyes and sat up a little to face her; Willow leaned forward and kissed her on the lips.
Angel shook his head as he realised he was going to be stuck in the van with the two love struck witches for a quite a while.
“This is going to be a long trip.” He whispered to himself.
To Be Continued……….
------------------
Journey Series two
Episode Two, On The Run
By Angelus
Email: webbanglsuk@aol.com
Feedback: Yes please
Distribution: Please help your self
Spoilers: All up to The Gift
Disclaimers: Willow/Tara and the rest of the Buffy gang are the property of Joss Whedon, Mutant Enemy and FOX. I just love to write about their creations, I make no money from this.
Summary: Willow and Tara settle down as they leave Sunnydale
Paring: Willow/Tara
Notes: This set after the Journey. As the girls leave town, Giles, Xander, Anya and Dawn start to research the demon. Angel and Oz are let feeling at odds around the love struck witches
****************
The Magic Shop. Sunnydale.
"Books, books and more books, oh the excitement." Xander said as he stared at the stack in front of him. "I just wish all my days could be this much fun." He added sarcastically.
Anya giggled as she watched her husband to be, pick up one of the volumes and stare at the label on the spine. Ever since she started dating him, she had come to know his dislike of researching demons and reading in general.
"Well this looks like a thrilling one." He said as he read the title of the book. "The Demon's of the Taropt realm. Sounds fantastic." He grumbled.
"Xander, please need I remind you that an assassin demon named Katiur has been summoned to kill your best friend and her fiancée. I would at least think you would be interested in trying to find out how this demon can be killed." Giles said to him, the former watcher was not in a good mood.
"Sorry." Xander apologised. "I know I guess I should stop complaining, I don't want to anything to happen to Willow or Tara."
"Neither do I, I don't think I bear to lose them after Buffy." The former watcher said.
Xander stood and placed his hand on the older mans shoulder. "I know, I miss her too."
Giles managed a little smile. "Thank you." He said simply.
Anya too stood up and wrapped her arms around Giles, this action stunned him a little but he returned the embrace.
"I miss Buffy as well." She said. Although not close friends, Anya did admire the fallen slayer. Buffy had at least accepted the former demon as a member of the scoobies, and made her feel welcome. She turned to Xander and embraced him, he returned the hug.
"Thanks Anya." He said
Xander sat down again he picked up the book he had been examining and opened it, he stared blankly at the pages for a moment and began to read. Anya made her way back the counter as she saw a customer enter the shop.
"I just hope I can make some sense of this." Xander muttered quietly to himself.
"You'll be fine." Giles said. "We have to find something in these books about this demon."
Giles shook his head and sat down beside Xander, he glanced around at the books in front of him and picked one at random. He turned his head as he heard a familiar voice.
"Hey guys, what's up?"
"Hi Dawn." Giles said smiling warmly at the young girl.
"Hey Dawnster." Added Xander grinning.
"So what's everyone doing then huh?" She asked as she sat down next to Xander.
"Research I'm afraid." Xander said, the tone in his voice indicated his lack of enthusiasm. "Some demony guy is after Willow and Tara, we are trying to look up anything about him or it."
"A demon's after Willow and Tara." Dawn said a touch of worry in her voice. "Where are they, are they okay?" She asked.
Giles placed his hand gently on Dawn's shoulder. "They're fine Dawn, Oz and Angel have taken them out of Sunnydale until we can figure things out."
"So they're safe?" She asked.
"Yes, for the moment anyway." He said. "I just hope those two are okay."
"I'm sure that Willow and Tara are fine." Xander said.
"Actually, I'm more worried about Oz and Angel." Giles said quietly, remembering how the two girls where constantly kissing and touching each other.
"Sorry?" Dawn asked a little puzzled.
"Nothing, I'm sure they're all having great time." Giles said.
*****************
Oz's Van
Angel sat in the back of the van shaking his head in disbelief; he looked at his watch wishing it were nightime. At least he could sit up front with Oz, and be away from the two witches. They had been travelling now for several hours, for the first couple of hours it hadn't been to bad. Tara had fallen asleep on Willow's chest; who had also dozed off despite the semi uncomfortable surroundings in the back of the van.
Angel's nightmare had begun when they both woke up, within moments they began making eyes at each other. He suddenly regretted not bring a book or something that could occupy him while Willow and Tara occupied themselves with each other. Unfortunately he realised that he had a few more hours until sundown, although Oz had shouted through to them they would need to make a comfort break soon.
"At least I might get a little peace for a while." He said quietly to himself.
He turned to face the witches who had managed to disengage themselves from one another. Tara sat on the floor of the van and leant against her beanie, Willow lay on the floor as well resting her head on the blonde’s lap. Tara was gently stroking her hair; Willow seemed to be contented just lying there in her lover's lap. He couldn't help but smile at them, despite the danger they where facing they seemed to be happy. Although that was because they had each other, Angel was totally alone.
He remembered what is was like to be in love, in all his 245 years he had only ever loved one person, Buffy Summers. Although they had parted a little over two years ago, he had still loved her. When Willow had told him of her death, he was devastated; he still had trouble accepting that she had died. He took a deep breath and took another look at the witches, he thought to himself. 'I won't let anything happen to them.'
Willow stared at the roof of the van feeling totally contented, she enjoyed having her lover run her fingers through her hair. Although they had been cooped up in the back now for the past few hours, she didn't mind. She moved her head slightly and caught the sight of her fiancée smiling warmly at her.
"Hey you." She said.
"Hey yourself." Tara replied. "You okay down there?"
"Fine thanks, Tara you have a comfy lap." Willow said grinning. "I could stay like this forever."
"I couldn't." Tara said.
Willow frowned for a moment at her lover's comment; she looked a little disappointed. Tara saw the change in Willow's smile; she gave her special smile.
"I need the loo soon." She said. "Don't think I should have had so much coffee this morning. But other than that I could stay with you in my lap forever."
Willow giggled at her, suddenly she also felt the need for the bathroom as well. She looked at her watch, she couldn't believe they had been on the road for so long. Tara turned towards the huddled figure in the back, the vampire look very bored.
"Mr Angel, are you okay over there?" She asked.
Angel looked up from studying the patterns on the carpet, which covered the floor of the van. "Not too bad. And please just call me Angel." He said smiling. "Truthfully I wish I had brought a book."
"I-I Guess it must be pretty boring for you stuck in here." She said.
"Yes, I am a little bored." He admitted.
"Hey guy's were making a pit stop." They heard Oz shout from the front of the van. "I need some gas."
Willow sat up and turned to Angel. "You want anything Angel." She asked him.
"Sorry?" He replied puzzled.
"A book, magazine or something?" She said. "Just to stop you getting so bored."
"Thanks, anything will be fine." He said. Angel smiled to himself, at least if he had something to read he wouldn't have to think about the two witches smooching all the time.
Oz breathed a sigh of relief as he saw the town a mile or so ahead of him, at least he would be able to find some gas and let the girls out for a comfort break. He glanced at the fuel gauge and just hoped he had enough fuel to reach a gas station. He smiled to himself as he thought about Angel locked in the back with the lovers.
"I hope he's still sane back there." He said
As the van entered the town he spied a garage and he relaxed, they could all get out and stretch their legs for a while before moving on. Well apart from Angel who would have to remain in the van as it was still daytime and the vampire probably wouldn't enjoy bursting into flames.
Oz pulled into the gas station and stopped at the pump, he got out and went around to the side door. He knocked twice and shouted through the metal panelling.
"Angel, stay back I'm gonna open the door."
"It's okay Oz, Angels safe." Willow said.
Oz opened the door about halfway; the bright sunlight shone through the gap and momentarily blinded the girls. Willow stepped out first into the afternoon light; she blinked her eyes rapidly to adjust to the harsh light. She turned round and waited for Tara to climb out. She took the blonde's hand and assisted her lover out of the van; Tara was having a problem due to her long skirt which had caught on something.
"Tara, next time I'd wear jeans." Willow giggled.
"Willow, it's not funny." Tara said as she managed to climb, she looked at the redhead and pouted.
Willow stepped and kissed the blonde on the lips, Tara smiled and kissed her back. She turned around and pulled the door shut. Turning back to her lover she reached out and took Willow's hand, they both walked to where Oz was filling the van’s gas tank.
"Oz, were gonna get some munchies from the store over there okay, you want anything?" Willow asked him.
"Yeah, okay just get me anything." He said. "You two okay in the back?" He asked them
"It's not exactly the Ritz, but were fine, thanks." Willow said to him.
Tara let go of Willow's hand for a moment and approached Oz. "Thanks for all this Oz." She said the smile on her face warm and genuine. "It's very kind of you."
Oz reached out and touched the blonde wiccans arm, he smiled at her. "No problem." He said.
Willow watched the interaction between her former boyfriend and her fiancée, she was pleased to she them becoming friends. Especially now as Oz was staying around, and he was planning on returning to Sunnydale next term.
"Ready then honey." Tara said, shaking Willow out of her thoughts.
"Uh huh." Willow nodded. "But um, bathroom first."
Willow took Tara's hand they walked towards the station and the bathroom. Oz watched them leave hand in hand. He allowed himself a smile and returned to refuelling the van for the trip. "Cute, very cute." He said to himself.
*******************
Sunnydale Magic shop.
Early Evening.
Xander yawned again and rubbed his eyes, he was tired from staring at the books for most of the day. He reached for the half-finished can of coke and took a swig, he hoped the caffeine would sustain him, right now he needed it to stay awake. He turned around to see the sleeping figure of Dawn curled up in the corner. She had fallen asleep, a couple of hours ago, and she looked so peaceful.
Anya walked up to where he sat; she placed her hand on his shoulder and placed a sandwich down in front of him. "Xander you have to eat." She said. "You need your strength right now."
"Anya, this is no time to think about sex." He said a slight tone of irritation in his