Have We Met Before?:Bladerunner Romance. Updated 10/02/07

[LondonGal58]

Title: Have We Met Before? (An Adventure Romance Set In The Bladerunner Universe)

Disclaimers: The characters of Willow Rosenberg, Tara Maclay, Buffy Summer’s, Zander Harris et al, are the property of Joss Whedon and Mutant Enemy productions. The setting for the story is within the Bladerunner universe, created by Philip K Dick and later put onto Film by Ridley Scott. They own um and I hope they don’t mind me using them for my own purposes.

Pairing: W/T (or rather, the W/T who inhabit this universe.)
Spoilers: None (as this does not take place in the Buffy verse at all, we're all safe as far as that goes.

Rating: PG no need to run away yet young ones but if my plan comes together it will get mildly spicy later. Fair warning will then be given (wink)

Summary: This story takes place 4 years after the book and film end. Anyone who has experienced both will know there are major differences between the two. Don’t worry an intimate knowledge of them isn’t required and I’ve used both worlds (probably more the film than the book, when I think about it) anyway there you go. I bow at the feet if giants.



Feedback: Yes, Yes. Yes this is the first time my stuffs been put out there and I’m hoping enough people like it to inspire me to continue (A plot summary has been written so I know where this is going never fear)

Email: pauladams58@hotmail.com

Distribution: Its only on here at the monent. Anyone who feels the story is worthy of posting on thier Fanfic site feel free. It would be nice to know though so please email me to say your doing so



Final note for everyone: Yes the opening synopsis is from the movie with a few amendments. It’s there to set the mood and give a hint as to what I think happened at the Tyrell Corporation after the bodies cooled.




Have We Met Before ?




Late in the 21st Century the Tyrell Corporation advanced evolution to the next phase – A being virtually identical to human – known as a replicant.

The Nexus 6 replicants were superior in strength and agility and at least equal in intelligence to the genetic engineers who created them.

Replicants were used off world as slave labour in the hazardous exploration and colonization of other planets.

Following the bloody mutiny by a Nexus 6 Combat team on an off-world colony, replicants were declared illegal on earth – under penalty if death.

Special police units – Bladerunner units – had orders to shoot to kill, upon detection any trespassing replicant.

This was not called execution it was called retirement.

This heavy penalty however, did not deter them, and determined to find answers to question’s on there origin and morphology, Seven Nexus 6 replicants hijacked a shuttle and once on earth tracked and killed a number of people, including the head of the Tyrell Corporation itself, Dr Eldon Tyrell in their quest for answers.

This high profile death of the corporation’s founder caused its new head, Quinton Travers, to make his first executive order, the ceasing of production of the Nexus 6, and the starting of a new company the Rosen Foundation.

The Rosen Foundation’s motto was to be “The longevity of tomorrow today”



Four years later.











Chapter One: Dream’s and Coincidences

“Mmm” not again these dreams are getting a habit. Tara smiled as she stretched in her sleeping bag.

“Lights half shutter open” she directed the environmental controls, making the scramble down from her elevated bed, over to the window which she knew she was luck to have.

Running long fingers through her shoulder length straight blonde hair, Tara gazed out of the large window with a smile, as she hugging her-self silently.

The view never changed, always the red Martian landscape, with the large Tholus summit dominating the horizon. A dust storm was blowing so it looked like the shuttles would have a hard time landing. Luckily she knew it was only supplies today, rather than a day when a 500 tonne super ore tanker was due to leave for Earth with its precious cargo of iron ore.

“Message received urgent” She heard her company communicator chirp in its friendly manner.

“Relay message” she asked

“Morning T, can you pick up a early shift in Minor’s today, Tiko’s gone missing and with two on leave we need a healing hand”

“Reply message”

“Hi Mona, I’ll be there by 09.00 and we can discus how many favours Tyrell C owes me then”

Slipping into her grey overall’s Tara grabbed her wash-kit and made her way out onto the 3rd level landing of the accommodation unit she shared with, at last count, another 75 mining support workers both male and female. Why the prison look she mused, they could at least have got creative with the décor, then again ducts are ducts even if they are blue.

Once in the female shower rooms at the end of the landing, she quickly found an unoccupied unit “Yippee no queue” Tara chuckled to herself still in a happy mood.

Under the soothing water, she thought about the recurring dream which she always longed for. Always the red headed girl, with blue eyes smiling at something, I think it must be me. It’s defiantly earth too, just like in pictures and movies. She feels so, I don’t know, safe, like home, like cookies made by Mum. Strawberry’s although I’ve never tasted the real thing just the juice drink.
All these, random warm, cosy feelings of love. They were the feeling’s she always woke up with, and it made her happy, but sad too, who was she. A mystery girl in a place I’ve never been to, at least that’s what I’m told.

A lot of things were hazy from before the crash 4 years ago. Funny how the children had survived when the parents hadn’t. All 35 sets of parents had been killed instantly on impact with the Martian surface. Leaving 35 children of all ages orphaned in a moment. A quirk of a seating plan that had seated employee’s and spouses in the front cabin, children in the rear. She could only remember small snippets of family life, her father devoted company man, her mother always baking, bringing home earth antiques from the base market, organising social events. Always busy.

The crash had robbed her of family, the coma had robbed her too… of memories precious memories.

“Beep - water limit exceeded Auto shut off 5 seconds” damn rationing

**********

“Morning Mona, which station do you want me on?” Tara enquired as she walked into Base 4’s hospital wing, blinking as her eye’s adjusted to the harsh lighting in the all white facility.

“Minors 5 please” Mona replied with the fixed smile of the harassed from behind the nurse’s station.

“Ok but nothing in the disgusting or disturbing area’s NO puking’s or pooping’s” Tara said sternly.

“Will do first ones waiting – head v shuttle – you can guess the winner”.

“Dust Storm?” Asked Tara.
“No faulty door – that’s my story and I’m sticking to it!” The reply came from behind a curtain.
Pulling back the curtain Tara was confronted with a young man about 20-25 with a mop of black hair which had an adsorbsion pad held to it by his un-gloved right hand.

“Morning welcome to Mars, Mr?” asked Tara shaking her head with a grin.
“Harris Zander, first time off-world and I end up cracking my cranium” Zander replied glumly.
“Ok well l’ll have a look at it, your not about to die just yet though so. Have you got your med card with you?” Tara asked
“Yeah it’s in my wallet – right rear pocket – can you?” Zander said, trying unsuccessfully to open the pocket with his left hand.
“You keep that right where it is, I’ll get it” Tara quickly replied.

Tara moved around the exam table in the centre of the cubicle, and spotted something in a rear pocket of Zander’s flight suit. “Right one?”
“Yeah Lefts junk – don’t worry its not the first time I’ve been felt up” Zander said jokily.
“If you want to be felt up, the lap dance bars on Base 6 so you’re out of luck flyboy” Tara batted back.
Taking the brown wallet from its pocket, Tara opened it up looking for the required medical card. To see a picture, that’s nice family, Tara thought with a twinge of loneliness. No all the same age, or there about, three girls and my patient. Looks like a bar. Red Hair! That face, the blue eyes, it’s her, even the smile. She’s older but it’s HER lovely sweet dream HER in the right of the picture.
Tara looked up to see if Zander had noticed her silence.
“I’m going to scan this ok, be back in a sec” Tara said still stunned unable to take her eyes off the picture.
Tara quickly left Cubicle 5 thinking, what do I do. What do I do? He’ll think I’m crazy. I can’t ask him – her name, I need her name at least.
After running the card though the reader at the nurses station, Tara stared intently as the desk display floated the cards data in the air above in blue neon.
Name: Zander Harris
City Loc: New San Francisco
DOB: 2038/7/8
Dependants: 0
Next of Kin: Anya Jenkins – Harris
Health: Tyrell Corp Sub Con Plan 4
Important Medical Notes: Allergies None Other: None

She could be Anya, married. Tara slumped down in the chair, staring at the picture again, burning it into her memory. No he has an arm around one of the two blonde’s. Tara smiled.
“Hey bleeding here, blood loss becoming an issue” Tara heard from behind her.
Swinging around still clutching the precious wallet, Tara returned to her work.
“Concentrate McClay no killing patients over a picture” she said under her breath as she remembered her training.

Once back at her work Tara quickly put two stitches in Zander’s head wound, which was all it needed, while constantly looking at the wallet that was sitting on the exam table.
Handing back the wallet as nonchalantly as she could, she asked the thing she had to know. “Who’s in the picture? Looks like fun” Tara asked shakily.
“Oh that’s the gang – that’s my wife Anya” he pointed.
“I thought you might be Mormon for a minute – you know this is my harem” Tara grinned
“Woah scary thought – one’s enough, that’s Willow, brains of the gang and computer wiz, that’s Buffy, kick ass Bladerunner extraordinaire, note the black on black leather motif and Mr R” Zander pointed out the two remaining girls.

Willow Tara thought, Willow.

“So that it? Can I go? I’m due to fly back tonight and I’ve got to queue to both unload and load up with waste before 18.00” Zander asked
“Huh oh yeah sure, your good to go, the stitches will dissolve in a month” replied Tara absently.
“Thanks for the stitches, all I’ve got to do now is think up a heroic story – any small animals need saving?”
“We’ve got a pet rabbit on level 9 – thumper I think?” Tara answered still staring into space.
“Nope that’s a no go, Anya’s allergic. She wouldn’t let me back into the apartment for a month! Thanks anyway…..Tara” said Zander as he grabbed a jacket that had been hanging over a chair and rushed away.
Running away, running away. No I need more.
Willow!

[LondonGal58]

Chapter 2: Of Hacker’s and Runner’s


“Beep: Hi Buffy it’s me….ah Will of course. Its 18.30 I’m back from London, early, want to meet on Friday? Zander should be back by then full of stories from the outer rim, anyway, keep safe see you Friday…I hope…bye”
“Cost of Call 1.15$ thank you for using Callcal”
“No thank you for turning out so expensive and locking me into a contact for a year” retorted Willow dropping the antique phone onto her black leather couch.
Walking over to the computer sitting on the metal corner desk of her large studio apartment, Willow switching on the machine which had had a much needed rest in the 2 weeks she was away in Europe.
First Emails, then relax

“Email” she requested.
“You have 56 messages” The computer replied in its soft female voice.
“Move junk to junk file”
“4 Messages remain”
“Display Work”
“3 messages”
“Change display colour Green”
That’s better Willow thought.
She spent the next few minutes reading the floating green display; two were for legit network security sweeps, the other definitely not legit security work. Mmm not a client I know
“Reply message 2”
“Thank you for the job offer, In order for me to decide if you warrant the attention of The All Powerful R, please provide details of who spoke of me, so I may punish them accordingly – careless talk will not be tolerated in my domain. APR”
“Reply Message 1”
“No thanks but thanks for thinking of me. Willow Rosenberg”
“Reply Message 3”
“Yes…You know I’d say yes didn’t you and have already booked the shuttle – by the way - first class this time. You know I’m worth it. WR”
“Voice Personal Email Balcony 2 minutes”
“1 Message 2 minutes Balcony”

Willow turned around and stopping off to get a Coke from the fridge, made her way to the balcony which ran the length of the apartment’s south end.

Opening the glass door and quickly closing it behind her to keep the night chilled air outside; she walked over to the glass and brick wall and looked out onto New San Francisco. Heights had their advantage, up here on the 78th floor the air was at least breathable just the slight aftertaste of sulphur. As usual sky cars and shuttles used the gap between hers and the opposing buildings as a rat run, buzzing by at speed with a flash of neon.

“Ah the good old AD Balloon oh how I’ve missed you” she shouted at the overhead blimp as it flashed its latest “You can have the Longevity of Tomorrow today” Ad
.
“Message 1” sounded the glass patio window behind her.
“Volume 2” she replied.
“Hi Willow, Its Buff I know your not back yet and you’ve all Black haired Bad Hack Willow in London at the Mo, but when you get back call me ok I’ve missed youuuuuu”
Willow looked at her reflection in the glass and shook her dyed black head of hair. “Reminder – Hairdresser – tomorrow”
“Reminder Set – Personal Schedule” came the computers reply.
Returning to her Coke she looked down over the edge of the wall.
“Woah head rush” Willow cried
“Got to stop doing that Rosenberg, 78 floors is a long way down”


Chapter 3: Journey’s and Cargo’s


Lying on her bunk, staring at the ceiling a few feet away.Tara was worried. Zander was going to leave tonight and he was her only link to Willow.
She had run his Id number; and he was listed on Flight TRC0585 from MB4 to NSF at 18.00.
Not enough time to talk to him and get more information, without him getting freaked out and running away shouting stalker.
Think.
You don’t have a pass so can’t follow on a faster passenger flight and wait at the other end.
Stowaway?
That would work, if she was caught, it would cost her a lot, Job, home, no it’s never felt like home since waking up in the hospital alone after 6 months of coma.
Willow who are you, am I crazy to be even thinking this, feeling this?
I’ve got to try.

Decision made, Tara jumped down grabbed her rucksack and packed franticly. Clothes, wash-kit, spare boots, the contents of her draw that contained snacks. Torch, Money, not a lot but it will have to do. Picture of Mum, Dad and me, in front of the Old Air refinery at base 7.
Satisfied she had everything she could get hold of. Tara put on her thickest red puffy jacket. Pulled on a Woollen hat to disguise her-self as much as possible and lugging her heavy load onto her back walked out in search of hangar 19.

*****

It wasn’t hard to find Hanger 19 as hangers 1 – 25 were all in one line on the left hand side of a long grey corridor, wide enough for all the loading and unloading to be done.
Finding the large container’s marked waste, Tara searched for what she was looking for.
A container not sealed due to any dangerous contents, and that was hopefully habitable for a 12 hour journey. Looking at her watch she saw it was already just past 16.00, 2 Hours to Departure, they would begin loading soon.
Checking around to see if anyone was looking, she opened a large container at the rear of the hanger, away from prying eyes. Luckily it was only half full with what looked like barrels of something. The barrels didn’t smell, and didn’t have any markings of danger either, so putting down her rucksack inside the door; she quickly closed it after herself. Then taking out her torch, she set about moving the heavy barrels, as quietly as she could, to form a crude wall to hide behind.
An hour later huddled behind her wall of blue barrels, she heard the metal container creak and felt a steady movement as she was loaded onto the shuttle.

*****

Tara awoke with a start. Time, how long have I slept? Glancing at her watch with the torch, she saw it was 04.00 only 4 hours since she had drifted off to sleep to the hum of the engines on the other side of the metal wall.

She had dreamed again, this time Willow was older and they were having a picnic under a tree. A new dream, not like the one she always had in which Willow was younger. It was more vivid. And they had kissed… Laid down on a blanket, in a green spot under the tree, and leisurely kissed as if it was the most natural thing in the world.
Buoyed by that memory, Tara got up from under her jacket that she had used as a duvet and opened her rucksack to find something to snack on. Finding a cereal bar with apple flavouring, she munched and planned her next move in 2 hours time.

****
Just short of her two hour estimate on the remaining flight time, Tara heard the engines roar to full power, meaning they were descending into Earths atmosphere and not long to landing.
Not knowing were to go she had decided to just follow Zander as stealthily as she could, they were friends, a gang, they would have to meet sometime. What she would do if she did find Willow was another matter. “Hello I’m Tara, you don’t know me, but I’ve had these dreams and you’re in them, a lot, in a warm and fuzzy major crush kind of way”
Nope, faint first probably, come round, stare, and not say a word that’s more your style isn’t it. Tara thought.
Hearing an alarm sound, Tara realised they were landing, time to get out of here and be ready for Zander.

Tara quickly gathered up her things, and slowly opened the door to the container. Poking just her head outside and waiting until a crewwoman went up a flight of steps to the flight deck. She made her move from the container to the large door which was the entire rear of the shuttle.
On seeing the red light to the right of the door turn green, she quickly gathered her rucksack on her back, and when the roar of depressurization finished and the rear door started to open downward, to become the shuttles ramp. She ran as fast as she could out the door and onto Earth for the first time, making her way to a rusting piece of machinery at the edge of the port.
*****
Thirty minutes later, from her hiding place behind the machinery, in the morning light. Tara spotted Zander leave the shuttles rear door with a bag over his shoulder. He had hurriedly unloaded the cargo to a hanger on the other side of the port using the shuttle’s large air lifting platform and was now leaving alone.
Falling in 15 metres behind him head down, Tara followed at as close a distance as she dared. Hoping he would be too wrapped up in the music he seemed to be listening to, to notice her sooty face under the Tan woollen hat.
Zander left the port through a gate in the fence and turning left appeared to be following signs for the Telegraph Hill sector. They quickly entered crowded streets with early morning shopper’s browsing the shop windows and bicycles weaving in amongst the crowd, bells ringing, to warn anyone not quick enough to clear their way.
Then after a few blocks they left the crowd’s behind, and he became easier to follow at a greater distance. They were walking between massive tall residential buildings. High in the sky between the building’s Tara noted the Sky vehicles she had seen in movies and that the air did indeed smell of sulphur. Some people seemed to wear masks, no doubt to ward off harmful particles from their lungs. She was breathing un-recycled air for the first time, it tasted thick in the back of her throat and her nose was beginning to itch a little. I think I need one of those mask’s Tara thought. But despite looking for clues as to where to get one, no sign’s or kiosk’s appeared, so she vigilantly following her link to Willow.
After a couple of more blocks and a left into a side street between two of the large Apartment blocks, Zander turned and entered the door to the building on the right with “Newsom Heights” above the entrance lobby.

So Tara sat…and waited.

[LondonGal58]

Chapter 4: Meeting’s Lies and Confession’s

Tara had waited as long as she could, she was tired and weary. All day she had walked up and down the side street at regular intervals to stretch her legs. But they still ached from sitting on the hard concrete. People had been and gone. Even an accident had occurred when a young man on a bicycle had careered into a smart looking gentleman, because he had stubbornly refused to clear the way when the cycle’s bell had sounded. But there was no sign of Zander or anyone from the photo, which had become embedded in her mind.

The darkness had come about 2 hours ago so Tara resigned herself to spending the night by the refuse Bin’s marked with the building’s name.

She put down her rucksack intending to use it as a pillow, and hoping the sector was safe, pulled her legs to her chest and tried to stay awake as long as possible in the hope of a familiar face.
But an hour later she had lost the struggle and was dreaming as her body cooled.

****

Willow had started early today, leaving her apartment at 03.00 to visit Icelandic clients who ran their office on Reykjavik time. She had then made use of their sleep pods until
Noon, so she could spend the afternoon and evening browsing the Castro for pre-quake memorabilia, only stopping to sample real coffee in one of NSFS’s coffee shops.

It had been a good hunt, she had found a comic Zander would love “Female Vampire Hunters” No doubt Anya would hate it, but it had been a bargain too good to resist.
Also in her bag was a vintage black denim shirt; she knew she would have to fight Buffy for.
As Willow fiddled in the dark for her building entry card, considering her options for ordering takeout, she heard a moan from over by the refuse bins.
Pulling down her paper mask, leaving it hanging around her neck, she whispered
“Hello?” into the dark.
“Mmmmmmm” was the reply
“You ok there? Are you hurt?” Willow spoke more forcefully.

When no answer came, Willow opened the door to the lobby and dropped her bag inside to free her hands for the stun gun, Buffy had given to her, with a stern talk about night safety.

As she slowly approached were she had heard the sound. Willow saw someone all wrapped up in a thick red puffy jacket and woollen hat, curled up in a shivering ball.
Kneeling down she put a gentle hand on the girl’s shoulder to shake her awake.
“Hey sleepy, you can’t stay here, it’s not safe”
“What, mmm, sorry” was the reply, as the sleeper slowly awoke.
“It’s not safe out here alone, let me help you get up” Willow said, as she offered her hand to the stranger.

As she did so, she got a first look at a young, slightly angular face, with green eyes which were looking up at her with a mixture of shock and fear.
“Hey, It’s ok, see, stun gun, back in pocket” Willow implored, opening her now empty hands widely.
“You have Black Hair” The stranger said with a slight accent Willow recognised as Off-World.
“Um yeah .my hairs black ....It’s ok… I’m not going to call the Cops; you don’t’ look dangerous, just very cold”
Willow offered her hand again “I’m Willow”
“Tara” the stranger smiled as she was helped to her feet.
“Ouch, Ouch” Tara said on shaky legs slowly finding her balance.
“Pins and needles, sorry Ill be ok in a minute” she added.
“Look its late, do you have a place to stay?” Willow asked as she tried to guide Tara into the safety of the lobby.
“I’m sorry no I don’t. I decided to come on the spur of the moment – I’m looking for someone - carpe diem and all that” Tara quietly replied with a half grin.
“Well if the stun gun’s not a problem, you can stay at mine tonight. It’s too late to look for them now anyway. What do you say? I’d hate to find a street cleaned Tara tomorrow” Willow said with a smile.
“Thank you, that’s very kind Willow” Tara replied as she manoeuvred her rucksack through the door into the lobby, feeling the warm air hit her face, instantly causing her cheeks to redden.
“I hope you don’t mind Elevator’s” Willow asked looking over her shoulder to the following Tara.
“I’m on the 78th so; if you’re a stairs person, I’ll see you at 78-24 sometime next week”
Entering an Elevator, Willow held the door so Tara could put her rucksack on, and once she was safely in, she swiped her card in a panel to activate movement.
“Rosenberg R 78-24 Please enter PIN number now”
Entering her PIN, Willow shrugged at Tara “I know it’s just to keep out Synthetic Pet salesman from the upper floors. Poor old Lady on the 54th found a lynx prowling outside her door. It had escaped from its Salesman and was trying to get at the bacon substitute she had frying for breakfast”
“They sell pets door to door?” Tara looked at Willow with wide eyes.
“Yeah, it’s a status thing; real animal’s more than synthetic” Willow explained.

“Bing”
Leaving the elevator, Willow again took the lead. Turning left and walking all the way to the end of the long red corridor, followed by the more heavily laden Tara.
Entering her card into the door slot, Willow ushered Tara inside and closed the door.
“I’m sure you could use a hot drink” Willow asked “If you put down the pack in the corner there, I’ll bring a coffee to you on the sofa ok?”
As Willow made her way across to the kitchen, Tara took the opportunity to catch her breath. She has black hair, not red she mused. I think I prefer red. Just as she put her rucksack down in the corner, by the metal desk with a computer on it, she heard a female voice say”Reminder Personal - Hairdresser”
“Cancel reminder” Willow shouted across from the kitchen area.
Feeling the heat, Tara finally took off her hat and the thick coat she had been wearing for almost 30 hours now. They were both looking worse for wear and Tara was sure she did too.

“Um Willow... do you mind if I clean up a little…I have my own stuff” Tara asked hesitantly
“Sure” Willow replied as she busily fixed coffee. “It’s over in that corner behind the screen”

“Thanks, you have a really nice place here Willow” Tara commented, as she took another opportunity to Willow gaze, under the pretext of getting her things to wash with.
“Yeah me, and a couple of friends moved to NSFS five years ago. Zander got his first job in this building doing up vacated apartments, got us a good deal”

“Buffy my other friend lives a couple of streets away, in a block of two bed apartments with her sister Dawn.”
Hearing the water start running and a yelp from behind the screen Willow chuckled.
“Sorry, I should have said, the hot takes 20 seconds to heat up – old plumbing”
“Ok” was the high pitched reply from Tara.
*****
Leaving Tara in peace, Willow took the two large Starbucks cup’s full of her best synthetic coffee and moved over to sit on the couch.
I wonder what brings someone to earth, with no place to stay, in search of someone.
“Tara what’s the name of the person you’re looking for? I’ll run an online search for them” Willow shouted over the sound of running water
There was a long pause before she heard the water stop and still more silence.
“Um…Willow…..I’m sorry but do you mind of I don’t talk about it…its um personal”
****
Behind the screen Tara was sitting on the floor, silently willing herself to not lie, “Please Willow don’t make me lie to get to know you, I will tell you about the dreams, everything I promise” she vowed quietly.
****
Willow taken aback by Tara’s words, was thinking. She must be in trouble, or her friend is?
Just as Willow was about to get up and see if everything was ok. Tara emerged sheepishly from behind the screen and went to the corner, putting her wash things and dirty clothes on top of her rucksack.
She then tentatively made her way to the centre of the room, taking position at the other end of the sofa facing Willow.
“Willow, I’m sorry if I sounded…evasive…...you’ve been very kind taking me In. I’m not a criminal I promise” Tara earnestly said, looking directly into blue eyes, feeling every bit as if she was in her dreams.
“Its ok….I just wanted to help…that’s all” Willow smiled
“You look a lot better cleaned up, not that you didn’t look ok before…” Willow added
“I was a mess, I’m not usually that grungy, plus I didn’t want to get the nice leather couch dirty” Tara said as she ran long fingers along the top of the couch.
“I never worry; it’s had its fair share of spills. It’s a regular Pizza magnet”
“Talking of pizza, I was going to order food, do you fancy sharing?” Willow asked keeping eye contact longer than she was sure was polite.
“Mmm…I’m a vegetarian….but if they do half and half?” Tara too couldn’t stop herself from just looking.

Willow reluctantly broke their mutual chemistry, to find the phone.

“Can you see an antique phone anywhere, Pink RAZOR, you know from 50 years ago” Willow asked, as she got down on her hands and knees squeaking on the wooden floor.
“Is this it? It was under my legs” Tara smiled holding her prize a lot.
“Thanks I’m always losing it.” Came from under the couch where Willow was searching.
As Willow’s head emerged from under the couch, and she looked up at Tara.
Tara asked a question, knowing what she wanted the answer to be.
“Mmm. Willow is your hair always black?”

“Actually it’s naturally red. But I sometimes have it coloured for the type of work I do – gives off the big bad vibe …grrrrr” Willow growled making an attempt at a scary face.
“Heehee” Tara burst out laughing “That’s pathetic”
“Hey no laughing at the Big Bad” “You don’t want my resolve face…..its infamous” Willow said sternly, trying to hide the happy dance, at the sight of an out of control Tara.
“Ok I’m sorry” Tara chuckled trying with all her strength to stop laughing.
“Give me second…that’s better” Tara smiled finally gaining control.
“Now O Guest of Mine…can I have that phone” Willow fatly said holding out her hand in mock outrage.
Handing the phone to Willow, Tara noticed the glass end to the apartment and flashes of neon streaking by.
As soon as Willow started dialling, she couldn’t help but be drawn to the view.
Walking over she experimentally tried to slide the door, but it wouldn’t open until from behind her she heard Willow say “Balcony Unlock code 2875” with a reply from the air “Unlock Accepted”
Moving outside onto the small balcony, Tara looked out to the opposing twin building.
“All these people At least it smells better up here” she spoke into the night.
“I know the pollutions been getting worse the last few years” Willow said glumly as she joined Tara’s side. “It plays havoc with Dawn…she has to wear an oxygen mask to go outside at all”
“I’m sorry that’s terrible…..I’m used to clean air, recycled but pure” Tara sadly replied.

“Its not your fault…just us screwing with the environment. You’re from Off-World right?” Willow asked.
“Yeah Martian born and bred …this dark is strange too. I’m used to a red glow at night” Tara said turning to Willow as if to say something.
“If you don’t want to its ok” Willow interceded.
“No its fine” Tara continued “I’ve had these dreams of Earth for as long as I can remember...it’s just…..not how I dream it. That’s all”
“Well, I tell you what, why don’t we go back inside, and I can start the fire. That has a red glow” Willow said putting an arm around Tara’s shoulder.
****
Once inside the pair returned to the living area. Willow only detouring to turn on the fake wood fire that was inset into the wall in front them.
“That better” Willow said to the fire “light’s 15%” she added, causing the glow of the fire to become the main illumination.
Turning back to her Sleepy looking guest Willow sat down next to Tara.
“Its ok if you want to sleep, I can’t imagine the concrete was comfortable” she said as she saw Tara’s eye’s begin to close again.
“I think the extra 5% gravity and inhaling all that stuff has made me groggy” Tara replied.
“I don’t advise the cold coffee then” Willow remarked looking at the un-drunk cups of coffee on a low glass table.
“No your right, will the pizza be long?” Tara asked.
“Nope definitely round” Willow smiled back
“You are the Big Bad aren’t you” Tara chuckled.
“Grrrrr” Willow made her scary face again.
“Ohh please no …you’ll start me off again”
“It should be here any minute. They have a trade code so should come right up”
“Did you bring any pyjamas?” Willow enquired
“Yeah I did, embarrassing but practical ones why?” Tara looked puzzled.
“I propose a pyjama party” Willow said cheekily.
“I second that motion from the chair” Tara batted back, getting into the spirit of things with a lofted left arm.
“Last one back here cleans up” Willow cried.
“Hey unfair advantage, you have home turf and don’t have to delve to the bottom of a rucksack” Tara cried with a scowling face.
“Ok how about a 30 second head start” Willow said with a poker face.
“60” Tara countered with her own poker face.
“45 deal?”
“Deal, I get the screen right?” Tara smiled suddenly feeling rejuvenated.
“Lets do this properly” Willow added “Computer –Timer- one beep in 15 seconds – second double bleep 45 second delay”
“Timer set”
****
“Beep” Tara jumped up onto the couch, leaping over its back taking the direct route to the corner containing her stuff.
“Cheater, no shortcuts” Willow shouted as Tara reached her rucksack, and started pulling out items to get to the bottom.

“Beep Beep”

Willow now set off, at top speed, for the opposite corner of the apartment where her bed was recessed into the wall and there was storage for clothes.
Quickly finding her prize she shed her jeans tossing them into the air dramatically, shortly followed by the blue T shirt. Deciding to take a shortcut of her own, she donned her pyjamas on top of her bra and panties. Once she had them on she turned and started the run for home, fastening buttons on the way.

As Tara emerged from behind the screen, she saw that Willow had a slight advantage, but she had the cleaner run for home.
“BUZZ”
“Willow Pizza” Tara cried, not stopping for an instant.
“Nice try” Willow shouted back as she made it though the kitchen obstacles.
As both girls closed in on the sofa, they both slowed down grinning at each others attire.
“Sheep flying sheep” Tara laughed
“At least mine aren’t fictional” Willow pointed at Tara’s red pyjamas which had lots of little dancing green Martian’s on them.
“Ok Will, you win. Now go get my Pizza” Tara pointed dramatically to the Door.
“Looser” Willow chuckled as she opened the door, to a foot tapping Pizza girl.

****

Once Willow had entered her thumb on the payment machine, she took the large package from the young NSF Baseball caped girl and placing a tip in her hand, sent her on her way.
“Dishes are over on the top there” Willow pointed with her nose.
“Got em already” Tara replied showing two plates she had placed on the low glass table.
“Then let the feasting begin” Willow proclaimed
****
As the pair tucked into there respective halves of the meal an easy silence fell over them.
Once two slices remained Willow spoke the silence.
“Tara” Willow said gaining Tara’s attention.
“If you can’t find your friend tomorrow, you’re welcome to stay longer”
“You’re welcome to stay even if you do find them”
“That’s sweet Will” Tara replied lowering her eyes.
Feeling terrible for deceiving Willow, Tara made a partial confession.
“I don’t know how long I’ll be on Earth. I have a job on Mars; I’m a nurse you see. Although they’ll probably fire me when they find out what I have done. I didn’t get permission to leave Mars…there wasn’t time to do things properly”
“Aren’t there any special circumstances you could cite?” Willow asked
“I don’t think my circumstances are covered in any manual” Tara said, looking straight into Willows eyes.


“What was on your half Will” Tara asked to lighten the mood again.
“Ohh chicken, mushrooms, green peppers and red onions” Willow replied finishing off the last slice of her half.
“Mine was hot, I think they but on extra chillies” Tara commented picking up the box which she had put the used plates on, slowly making her way to the kitchen.

“Leave them on the worktop Tara, come back here…please” Willow pleaded.

As Tara returned, Willow took her hands and pulled Tara down so they were sitting directly facing each other, hands interlinked.

“You feel it too, don’t you...a connection” Willow said looking into Tara’s eyes
“Yes I do Willow” Tara smiled back..

“Will you answer a straight question for me?” Willow asked keeping eye contact
“Anything” Tara replied captivated by blue.
“How did you get from Mars to Earth without getting permission?”
“I stowed away”
“On a Passenger Shuttle?” Willow looked amazed.
“No freight” Tara corrected
“Freight good, I know someone who may be able to get you back the same way”
Willow’s mind was plan hatching, Tara could see it.
“Willow stop” Tara said releasing a hand to stroke Willow’s cheek.
“Don’t you see…Find friend…Do what you have to do….back to Mars before anyone notices. No harm done. Apocalypse averted. As Buffy would say” Willow continued as she automatically stroked Tara’s hand with her own.
“Willow… I don’t know if I will want to go back” Tara smiled.
“You mean you might stay?” Willow said excitedly.
“Yes I might….it all depends on the person I’m looking for” Tara grinned.

Willow suddenly pulled back from all contact with Tara.

“May I ask a second straight question?” Willow asked hesitantly.
“Sure you can, call it my race forfeit” Tara replied regaining one of willow’s hands

“Is it a Boyfriend or Girlfriend you’ve come to find?”

“In a funny way yes, a girlfriend, but not in the way your thinking”

“Not in a romantic way?” Willow said quizzically somewhat confused.

“It’s complicated Willow. Its in a romantic way for me…I’ve liked them for a long time…a crush you might say. I came to find them….to see if my fantasy was real…or just that a fantasy”
“Wow internet dating….does she even know you like her!” Willow babbled.
“She would be mad to pass up someone like you…or at least give it a shot”
“Thank you, Willow for the pep…I might need it” Tara said releasing Willow’s hand.

“Do you mind if we turn in, it’s past midnight” Tara asked feeling the need to steer the conversation to safer ground.
“Yeah sure…mmm….this isn’t something planned…but….my bed’s a king’s size. You’re welcome to it” Willow indicated the pull down bed with her clothes still strewn around it.
“How about sharing, are you a righty or lefty?” Tara said with a raised eyebrow.
“Anyeeee… I have no strong opinion on the left v right debate” Willow grinned.
“Well neither have I so….unless you want to toss for it…lets see where the bodies fall”


And on that, both girls walked over to the bed and after a brief dance settled for Willow on the right and Tara on the left.
“Light’s out” Willow commanded.
“What’s that light over there Will?” Tara asked.
“Ohh dam I forgot the fire”
“Can you leave it?” Tara requested.
“Does it remind you of Mars?” Willow said as she turned to look into Tara’s face inches away from hers.
“Yeah a bit…night Willow”
“Night Tara”

[LondonGal58]

Well there it all is.

The first 4 chapters are the getting together ...this stories got some twist's and tuns to come.

I hope you enjoyed it so far

Please leave feedback especially if its nice or constructive

LondonGal

[Willowlover]

This story is awsome!!!Tara constantly dreaming of Willow is sweet. I guess that means that Willow is truley the girl of Taras dreams.
I hope you don't mind me saying, I think that Tara is a replicant for 2 reasons; reason 1 is it is way too good of a twist (buffy's job is to kill replicants and she's willows friend) Reason 2 is that it just feels right, I mean her dreams should have some reasoning and if she's some kind of super-human than it would make sense.
I can't wait to see how wrong or right I am. please update soon.

[taralicious]

Londongal58,
Consulting my Magic 8-Ball as to the question of:Is Tara a Replicant, all signs point to yes.
This has all the hallmarks of a lot of little things leading one down a path of conclusion.
Of primary importance would seem to be the matter of this flight Tara was on resluting in the deaths of all of the adults but leaving her in a coma.
This might imply that the seating was a deliberate attempt to weed out the adult Replicants.
The dreams of Earth and her memories therein could be implanted much as Rachel's were.
The one thing in favor of Tara's survival is that the union of Willow and Tara is larger than any cosmic force can contain.
Long has it been my theory that whatever the scenario, circumstances will always adapt, shift, and change to allow Willow and Tara to find each other.
Tara has made the choice to bring her dream into the cold light of reality and see if she can manifest the possibility that it offers.
Regardless, Tara has made herself known and her life will not be the same again.

[LondonGal58]

Chapter 6: Runner’s and Reptiles.


Buffy strolled out of her apartment block at 07.00 to meet her Blade running partner.
Ah sulphur. Looks like today would be a bad one. Opening up her black leather jacket, she spoke into the lining that contained a microphone.

“Message Dawn“
“Beep”
“Morning Its Big Sis, Today’s Summers Weather Forecast is for coughing Dawn’s followed by Non- Breathing Dawn’s, so remember to use those Oxygen tanks folks”
“End Message. Send”

Come on Faith, were, are you?

Spotting her sky car across the street, Buffy waited for a cyclist to pass before breaking into a lazy run, just making it to the car before the next one sped by.

Faith was in the pilot seat...again!

Ohh come on. when would she let the NSFS bridge incident go? They had survived hadn’t they?

Lifting up the Cars gull wing door and climbing into the passenger seat grumpily. Buffy greeted her partner, and now it seemed driver, with a scowl.

“Morning Faith”

“Morning B”

Buffy logged her ID into the Car’s computer unit, effectively clocking on with headquarters.
“Any Overnights” she enquired of the unit.
“One” Came the reply.
“Print”

I might as well do something useful, while Faith has all the fun. Buffy thought.

Using the cars communications headset Faith sought permission to rise, having already completed pre flight checks
“Control this is Bladerunner Unit 568. Requesting permission for flight”
“Roger 568 – You have Clearance”
As the car rose into the air, leaving the crowded ground traffic behind. Buffy fastened her seatbelt, and started to read the new order, not wanting to look outside, while Faith played chicken with oncoming flashes of neon.


Internal Memo Tyrell Corporation
To all Bladerunners NSFS
Designation: Tara McClay
Model: Nexus 6
Incept Date: 2053/7
Function: Medical

Instructions
The above has absconded from a Mars Mining Colony and is believed to have made its way to the New San Francisco Area in the last 36 Hours. Runner’s are instructed to apprehend ALIVE this model (DO NOT RETIRE). Once it has been secured call 078175 5689752 at Tyrell’s NSFS office for handover arrangements.

QT
Tyrell Corp



Mmm Buffy mused; something’s different about this one, stuffing it in the equipment bag by her feet for later.

Looking out the window to check the cars progress, Buffy could see they were almost at their surveillance position on top of the Pardue Building already.
Waiting until the car had settled down safely. Buffy undid her belts and reached behind her seat for the shoulder holster that held Mr R.

“What do you think B....Give it today to see if Tommy comes back”

“Yeah we’ve spent 2 days on this one...if he’s not coming, he’s not coming” Buffy replied.

****
Opening her door upward and climbing out. Buffy walked to the rear of the sky car, and took off her jacket, so she could put on her shoulder holster properly. Completing that, the blonde opened the compartment where the large arms were stored.

“Faith....there’s no SR23 in here” Buffy cried slamming the door closed again.

“Chill B, I’ve got it here.” Faith retorted waving the large sniper rifle around like it was a staff
.
“Remind me why, I don’t work alone” Buffy moaned as she followed Faith to their rooftop post.
“Because no one will let you drive” Faith retorted over her shoulder.
****
Once they had set up their positions on the slightly angled roof. Buffy once again pulled out the new instructions from her equipment bag.
“Faith”
“What is it B, I’m trying to work here not catch up on my reading”
“Come on I’m trying to have a proper conversation here”
“Ok what’s got your undies in a twist?” Faith testily enquired.

“This new order, it’s a capture order, why not retire like usual. Plus isn’t Medical on the Banned Occupations List?” Buffy speculated “Something’s different about this case Faith”

“Retire, capture, all the same to me” Was the reply with a shrug.

Suddenly their conversation was interrupted as Faith grabbed the sniper rifle that sat between them. She lifted the barrel and with a practised hand, flipped the view screen open, and aimed the long weapon at her target.
“Come to mamma, Tommy you are predictable after all” Faith exclaimed as she followed her prey with the screen at maximum amplification in the crowded street below “That’s it look at the lovely python”

“Faith STOP that’s not our Tommy” Buffy interrupted “See he’s 6ft 2 at least”
“Fuck it I hate Pet Store stakeouts” Faith cursed “What is it with skin jobs and pet store’s”
“It’s the synthetic kinship thing....I guess” Buffy answered putting the strange overnight instructions back into her pack.



Chapter 7: Two Across Water

As the morning light began to filter into the apartment. Tara gazed at a sleeping Willow. She looks so content, she thought. I will tell you everything, I promise.

When she had first awakened, Tara had found herself looking out of the patio window, into a clear orange sky with high orbit shuttle vapour streak’s running across it.
She could feel an arm across her stomach and a warm heat on her neck. Willow’s breathing. Willow had turned in the night to gently spoon her from behind, something she had never felt before. It was heavenly. But it didn’t take long before the desire to see Willow’s face took over. So Tara had carefully removed Willow’s arm and turned away from the view outside to the one inside.
So pretty...Tara mused.....even with black hair its still you. I feel it....the feelings of my dream’s made real.
****

At 07.30 Willows morning alarm activated. Turning on the coffee machine and Holo TV which was set to the Science and Technology News Channel - STNC”
“Latest News this morning on STNC...Quantum Computing is a step closer today as Cambridge University announced they were less than a year away from first run test’s of their – Deep Thought computer. The frontrunner to be the first to break the Qubit Barrier”

“Standing outside the Douglas Adams Building is Pete McKenzie. Pete. What’s the story there in the UK?”
“Well Doug while the news of how close Cambridge is to first run is no surprise to follower’s of the project. The News that the UK government has declared this Government funded, but up until now Civilian project, a Military one. Has sent shockwaves through”
“Mute Holo” groaned Willow.
Silence
“Morning Will” Tara greeted the sleepy apartment owner.
“Morning....did you sleep ok?”
“Yeah fine thanks”
“So what’s your plan for today?” Willow asked, smiling at her companions green eyes.
“Well that all depends on you Willow?” Tara smiled back.
“Don’t you want to find your fantasy girl?” Willow enquired
“I thought about that this morning, and I want to spend time with you, is that ok?”
“Voice Work schedule” Willow commanded
“1 item – Meeting 15.00 Spencer group estimated length of meeting 3 hours”
“Does NSFS have parks? You know tree’s green grass all that stuff” Tara asked.
“We’ve got parks; but their not green anymore...the sulphur levels killed off all the plants and trees in the city year’s ago” Willow replied with a sad smile.
“Ohh”
“I can show you a place my parent’s took me as a kid. I think you might like it there” Willow Beamed.
“Ok sure” Tara nodded.
Knowing she needed to make a few call’s to make her plan happen Willow reluctantly sat up and started to get out of bed. “Coffee and Toast?”
“MMM yes please” Tara responded. As she too sat up and stretched her body, arms raised high in the air.

****
An hour later two girl’s, one blonde, one dark, walked out of the lobby of Newsom Heights side by side, and turned left in the direction of the local NSFS train station.
“So you’re not saying anything?” Tara complained.
“Nope my lips are sealed”
“Not even what the three calls were for?” The blonde probed.
“Nope” Willow replied.
“Ok I’m in your hand’s do with me what you will”
“Well first here’s a mask” Willow handed Tara a white paper mask.
“Do I have to?” Tara looked at Willow with cheerless eyes.
“Don’t worry we won’t need them where were going” Willow grinned.
“Uuuu a clue” Tara beamed at Willow as she pulled her mask to her face.

The unfortunate consequence of using the masks was it made conversation difficult between the pair as they walked.
So they fell into the habit of Willow pointing out things of interest with hand gestures and signals.
The exotic pet store, that sold all manner of animals. Something Tara’s wasn’t entirely comfortable with.
The oxygen can seller with his wares hung around his neck, providing a vital service for many of MSFS’s residents.
Just as Tara was about to pull down her mask, and ask Willow how much further they had to go. Willow put a gentle hand on her shoulder and steered her towards a food store.

Once inside both Girls pulled off their masks and smiled at each other.
“Ok I take it we need food for this surprise” Tara inquired trying to gain more information.
“We need a picnic” Willow said merrily.
“Ok I’m buying, it’s the least I can do” Tara excitedly replied. Picking up one of the hand basket’s that sat beside her and starting down the first isle. “Aren’t you coming?” she asked. When she saw Willow wasn’t following her.
“I have a small job to do of my own” Willow said “I’ll meet you out front in 10 minutes ok”
“Ok 10 minutes out front”
****
A short time later, having got a selection I things she hoped Willow would like and paying at the auto-till.
Tara put on her mask and cradling her picnic bag to her chest, walked back outside to wait for Willow.
Sure enough Tara spotted Willow coming out of a shop opposite.
“Hey you’ve got a lot of supplies there” Willow shouted over the noise of a passing tram.

“Earth to Tara ...come in Tara”

Quickly pulling down her mask “Red Hair, you’ve got Red Hair again” Tara beamed.

“What do you think? Better?” Willow ran her fingers though her natural look.

“Much better... much more...you”

“I think so too...now next stop that train station over there”

“Ohh and here" Willow pulled out a large canvas shopping bag from her coat pocket. "We can carry our picnic in this".
****
Entering the ticket area Willow instructed Tara to go and wait for her by the stairs to the platforms.

“Why?” Tara pouted.

“Because if you see the ticket’s it might spoil the surprise silly” Willow smiled.

“Ok good point”

****
It didn’t take long for Willow to join Tara and they climbed the stairs together, making their way over to platform 5, boarding the inland bound train that was waiting here.

“Is it far” Tara asked
“Not far just across the bay” Willow replied indicating for Tara to take the window seat
“The bridge over the bay is one of the longest in the US” she added.

****

Once the train started Tara was surprised at how quick they were moving, and they soon left the city on a seemingly never-ending bridge high above the water.
Tara noted all sizes of craft on the water racing them across the bay below. Mostly pleasure craft she guessed.
“Spectacular isn’t it” Willow commented leaning over Tara to see.
“Is that craft fishing” Tara pointed to a craft stationary unlike most of its companion’s.
“I think so” Willow nodded “Some species have adapted pretty well to the changes in the water acidity”
As they left the bridge Willow picked up their bag and started to rise, just as the train entered a tunnel. “This is our stop”
“Um Willow were underground” Tara looked at the redhead quizzically.
“Come on” Willow started to make her way along the corridor to the large double doors at one end of the carriage.

Tara not knowing what to make of a picnic in a mine shook her head and dutifully followed.

****

Disembarking out of the large doors, Tara followed her guide along an almost deserted platform which was clearly underground. The station sign announced they were in “Peacehaven”.
Willow suddenly shouted “Bill, over here”
Tara noted an elderly gentleman in uniform turn and come over, shaking Willow’s hand.
“My you’ve grown up” Bill smiled as he stood back taking Willow in.

“It’s been 8 years Bill; I wasn’t sure if you still worked here when I called” Willow replied pulling him into an embrace.” I didn’t think you would remember me either”

“It did take me a moment, until you mentioned that time you helped me fix the computer ticketing system, how old were you then 15” Bill smiled.

“That’s why I thought of you, did you manage to get them” Willow asked

“There you go two day passes all areas” Bill handed over two plastic cards.

“Thanks take care”

“Come on” Willow excitedly called as she started off towards an elevator

“Willow wait”

As they entered the large metal grey box and seeing that they were its only occupants Tara whispered in Willows ear “Mmm Willow....I don’t know how to break it to you. But I’m from Mars. We have Mines there. That’s why it’s called a mining colony”
Then the elevator started to move, but upward not downward.
“Sorry I take it back” Tara grinned placing her hand over her mouth.
Willow just took Tara’s hand and waited. She knew what was coming.

[LondonGal58]

This story is awsome!!!Tara constantly dreaming of Willow is sweet. I guess that means that Willow is truley the girl of Taras dreams.
I hope you don't mind me saying, I think that Tara is a replicant for 2 reasons; reason 1 is it is way too good of a twist (buffy's job is to kill replicants and she's willows friend) Reason 2 is that it just feels right, I mean her dreams should have some reasoning and if she's some kind of super-human than it would make sense.
I can't wait to see how wrong or right I am. please update soon.

Thanks Willowlover for the thumbs up. I hope you like the small update.

I think its best if I stay out of any what is Tara debates, but feel free to speculate.

LondonGal

[Useful_Oxymoron]

Ah, cool, I love BladeRunner.

Hmm, curious and curiouser. All signs points to Tara being a bot. The pictures, the vivid memories/dreams, the odd circumstances allowing her to travel to earth and, of course, the memo...

And yes... Why would they want her alive? Maybe she has information they want, or maybe she is a human and they want to use the bladerunners to capture her without questions asked. Hmmm, you've set things up well.

Alright, lemme ask you another question, then, in relation to the film. Deckard : rep or human?

Good story, love to see more.

[LondonGal58]

Ah, cool, I love BladeRunner.

Hmm, curious and curiouser. All signs points to Tara being a bot. The pictures, the vivid memories/dreams, the odd circumstances allowing her to travel to earth and, of course, the memo...

And yes... Why would they want her alive? Maybe she has information they want, or maybe she is a human and they want to use the bladerunners to capture her without questions asked. Hmmm, you've set things up well.

Alright, lemme ask you another question, then, in relation to the film. Deckard : rep or human?

Good story, love to see more.

Thanks for the positive feedback UO its much appreciated.

On the Replicant or Human in the Film debate.

Ridley Scott stated in 2002 after 20 years of staying tight liped, that Deckard was a REPLICANT.

Harrison Ford and Hampton Francher (The original writer of the screenplay) have always maintained that Deckard was HUMAN.


The rough consensus among fans..and those that have studied and probed every frame of.celoloid. Is that in the original cut Deckard is Human. In the Directors Cut he's a Replicant.

LondonGal

[Willowlover]

Nice update. I can't wait to see where Willow is taking Tara. If Tara is a Replicant like I suspect then I am anticapating the momment when Buffy and Faith catch up to her.

[taralicious]

So Tara is a replicant but a special class of one, huh?
A medical classification perhaps with an extended lifespan like Rachel was in the film.
Your use of terminology and racial epithets from the film is impressive as well i.e, the term skinjob.
Can't wait to see where Willow is taking Tara although i would guess some kind of terraformed biosphere.

[LondonGal58]

Here is the next bit.....Ive just managed to get finished before going away for the weekend.


Chapter 8: Paradises & Picnics

I didn’t take long for the elevator to reach its destination and the door to open to reveal they were in a large glass dome structure. The glass wasn’t clear however, it seemed to be an opaque green, obscuring any real view outside but letting light in.

Exiting into the dome Willow gave Tara one of the cards and they walked towards the turnstiles they needed to pass though to exit.
Once passed though the barriers. Willow indicated the half circle shaped exit and taking Tara’s hand again led her towards it.

Walking though the half circle hole, Tara saw they were in a large park area, which stretched as far as she could see. It was perfect. They were in a lush meadow with yellow and blue flowers scattered everywhere. A short distance away was a copse of white blossomed trees, under which she was sure she could see some animals grazing.
Further away was a low flat toped hill that people were sitting on taking in the Sun.
The Air...The Air was pure too...no sulphur aftertaste.

“Welcome to the Peacehaven Bio Dome” Willow announced.
“Bio dome?” Tara looked up and sure enough saw they were in another enclosed glass like structure. But the roof was at least 300 metres above them and spinning around like a top Tara still couldn’t make out the edges of it, all she could see was green landscape.
“Willow this is unbelievable...its”
“Big” Willow smiled.
“Um yeah....Big...I thinking breath-taking” Tara replied totally in awe, as she continued to spin. “Paradise”
“Come on we can sit under those trees with the key deer” Willow pointed to the copse Tara had already noticed.
“They won’t run away?” Tara hesitantly enquired picking up their picnic bag, which she had unknowingly dropped into the long grass.
“Lets see” Willow answered back leading Tara across the fertile green pasture.

****

As they got nearer to the copse, and slowing down so as not to spook the small deer, Tara could see the trees were beginning to drop some of their white load onto the ground and this was what the deer were grazing on.
Looking over at her companion, Tara noticed Willow seemed to have spied a spot she liked. So they angled to the left, making their way to one of the larger tree’s that was not totally carpeting the ground in white.

****

Scooping up a handful of blossom Tara sniffed the blooms getting a faint apple aroma.
“Their Sakura, Japanese Cherry Blossom trees usually they just blossom for a few weeks, but these guy’s have been engineered to bloom 4 times a year, so there nearly always white” Willow breathed on Tara’s neck as she leaned over her shoulder to see the blooms slip though Tara’s delicate fingers.

“This place, are there more of these on Earth, every city should have one” Tara smiled looking over her shoulder at blue eyes “A place to come and unwind to just be....be with friends, family, lovers”
After a brief moment to settle down with their backs against the tree, Willow explained the domes history.

“No Peacehaven is unique, in North America anyway...in 2038 when things started going bad a bunch of millionaires and billionaires decided to build the ultimate gated community.
There are actually 4 identical domes interlinked in a central hub. We are in Park, over there’s” Willow pointed to the east “Res where everyone lives. Over there” Willow pointed north “Is Ent where all the shops, restaurants and entertainment stuff is, and over on the other corner is Ind. A place where high tech businesses can be run from without fear of contamination from polluted air”

“Those people up on he hill, they live here?” Tara exclaimed

“Yes the uber rich buying their way to health, and a life of not having to deal with the
Outside world”

“Are you rich Willow?” Tara asked with a bowed head shyly.

“My folks have done ok; Dad was a lawyer...one of his firm’s clients was the son of an original founder. He saw a family picture one meeting and seeing that I was about the same age as his daughter invited us up on long weekends. Buffy hated that she couldn’t come. As it turned out, Jennifer helped me to sort out a few things”
“What things” Tara said with a cheeky grin.
“That I liked Girls....we never got to fourth base but it was fun on third” Willow replied with a blush.
“I love a good coming out story” Tara winked.
“No - nope - not going down that clichéd road” Willow waved dismissively thinking of the best way to change the subject. She didn’t want to spoil the picnic with tales of old woes.

****

“So lets see” Willow nosed into the pair’s picnic bag “what have we here”
Willow opened up the bag and pulled out a large clear container.
“Crunchy Greek Salad, nice and colourful too”
“It’s with an olive oil and wine vinegar dressing” Tara added, pleased at the face Willow was making.
“Tomato Salsa” Willow said pulling out another container “and we have baked pita wedges to dip”
“Strawberry’s you got Strawberry’s”
“I’ve never tasted the real thing so, couldn’t resist” Tara beamed “In the bottom is some iced tea, and lemonade. I didn’t know if you liked tea?”

“Iced tea is fine. It all looks delicious. But Tara this stuffs rare it must have been expensive”

“Its ok Will, it’s the least I could do, I wanted to do it right”

****

As they ate their picnic, Willow did open up to Tara on how she had spent teenage holidays here in Peacehaven, and the pushy rich brunette who had taught her so much.
Only to crush her heart when Jennifer's disapproving father had found out about them, and sent her to college halfway across the world.

By the time the story was finished. Willow found she was lying down in Tara’s lap as her hair was gently ruffled, the food all but forgotten.

“That’s how we learn Will, by having out hearts broken, that’s how we can know when we have found that special person”

“Your one of those people who believes there’s one perfect match out there aren’t you.
Talking of special...strawberry’s...come no switch” Willow exclaimed getting up reluctantly.

“Switch?” Tara quizzically raised an eyebrow.
“Yeah if you’ve never had strawberry’s we’ve got to do this right, come on head down”
Willow tapped her lap as she took up position against the tree.

Not needing a second chance, Tara lay down with a sigh of contentment, looking straight up to a beaming Willow with strawberry in hand.
“Open up a little bit” Willow requested as she lowered the morsel to brush against Tara’s lips.

“And bite” she smiled.

Taking a delicate bite of the fruit leaving the stalk, Tara savoured the rich taste of the juices as they burst into her mouth. Willow taste she thought “Mmm...That’s so much better than an artificially flavoured drink”

After alternately eating the strawberry’s both girls lay down on the grass gazing up into the bows of the blossom heavy tree.
“Willow”
“Yeah”
“Thanks for bringing me here, it’s a magical place” Tara said turning on her side to Willow gaze. Seeing blonde hair in the corner of her eye, Willow twisted to return the gaze with a smile “Your right it is magical, it’s a shame more people can’t see it”

****

Chapter 9: Calls & Confessions


Underneath a cherry tree two girls lay side by side hands interlinked.

“This is lovely” The blonde said to the redhead “But don’t we have to get going, you have a meeting later?”

“Nope I cancelled” The redhead grinned.

“Sneaky, one of the mystery call’s I take it”

“I just couldn’t face work today, not when I could show you here” Willow slowly rose to see what the deer were up to “Tara, look, I think this one want’s to say hello”

Rolling onto her stomach and turning round 180 degrees. Tara saw that a larger male with small antlers was sniffing the air cautiously not 3 meters away “Hey there, like the smell of our picnic”

A small head nod and the stag slowly ambled closer, to sniff the container that had held their Greek salad.
Quickly gathering up the container Willow apologised to their guest “Sorry, it’s all gone and it might not be a good idea to eat the plastic”

“I think we had better clear this stuff up before, he gets an antler caught” Tara chuckled starting to put everything back into their bag.

Handing Tara the lemonade bottle Willow suggested “How about we amble across Park to the hub, there’s a hill that’s got a view of the entire dome”

“Sounds good to me” Tara responded as she slung the now lighter bag over her shoulder and took Willow’s hand with a smile.

****

As the pair approached the centre, which was a tall glass tower covering the space between the four domes. A phone chirped. Digging into her trouser pocket
To find the pink phone, Willow looked at the caller ID and shook her head.
“Hi Buffy”
“Yeah sure I’m still up for a night out, but can you give me a sec”

“Tara that’s my friend, I said I would meet up with her tonight, fancy joining us”

“Umm I’m not sure Will, how many people will be there” Tara hesitantly asked.

“Well Me, Buffy, Zander, Anya plus you that’s five”

Tara’s mind went into panic at the mentioning of the shuttle loaders name “Umm Will I’m not sure”

“We don’t bite I promise” Willow gently cajoled.

Making a decision that now was the time to explain her journey to Earth. Tara looked around for a place to sit Willow down and describe her dreams.

Seeing the Hill that Willow had described, Tara cautiously explained “Willow, I have to tell you something, and then you can decide if I should come ok”

Looking puzzled and a little frightened at the serious look on her friend’s face Willow
Put the phone back to her ear “Buffy. Can I call you back? Got to go bye”

“Tara you’re as white my shirt?” Willow worriedly enquired.

Taking the redhead’s hand, Tara led Willow up the steep incline until they reached the top in silence.

“Are you in trouble...is your friend in trouble, your scaring me Tara” Willow probed all sorts of horrible thoughts coming to her keen intellect.

“Lets sit” Tara implored, leading Willow to a maple tree.

Sitting cross-legged opposite each other, Tara put a finger to Willow’s lips to stop the barrage of question’s she knew she had every right to ask.

“Please Willow; I need to explain the reason why I’m here”

Seeing Willow calm and steady herself Tara smiled and laid a reassuring hand on her companion’s knee.

“You remember I came to find someone, well that person was you” Tara shyly explained.

“Me? Why we had never met until yesterday. Have we? And you said...” Willow suddenly smiled her eyes lighting up “I’m your fantasy”

“Yes Willow you are...and you haven’t disappointed either” The blonde winked.
“But let me explain it all please” Tara stroked Willow’s knee in reflex “For a long time I have had dreams of a girl, a redheaded freckle faced girl. Even though I couldn’t remember details often, I always got the same feelings of Love, Contentment, and Wholeness” green eyes then gazed directly into blue “And I always remember her face”

Willow beamed as Tara’s hand moved from her knee to stroke her cheek “Wow, do you think they are visions?”

“I don’t know, I have no idea what they are, but the day before yesterday a young man came into the med centre on Mars Base 4, and in his wallet, was a picture” maintaining their intimacy. Totally unaware of the greater world Tara continued “You were in it, I recognised you from my dreams immediately, and it was quite a shock. I got your name from him and when he left for earth I followed all the way to you”

“Zander” Willow gasped.

“Yes, Zander, he didn’t know what I was doing, I’m truly sorry for not telling you when we first met, but if I had. I don’t think we would have got to know each other”
“I’m so sorry Willow it must seem so strange. Someone who you have never met until yesterday, tell you she has dreamed of you”

“Mmm” Willow’s mind went into overdrive.

“So you’ve had dreams, and from what you said last night. Romantic dreams, of me...Yea Me” Willow grinned.

“So you’re not totally freaked, thinking I’m crazy” Tara smiled hesitantly.

“No you seem pretty sane to me, but it’s definitely strange, and I still can’t believe you stowed away to find someone you had never met” then Willow beamed “But whatever happened to cause you to come, I’m glad you did”

“Really”

“Yes really, any other dreams revelations or portents I need to know about” Willow asked with a raised brow “No. well come here then” Opening her arms to welcome Tara into an embrace.

Not hesitating for a second the blonde rushed into the redheads arms and the two sunk into a heap on the grass.

****
Thanks for all the feedback its much appreciated guys and I hope you liked the update.

PS Taralicious your guess was right.. I bow to your deductive powers

[Willowlover]

Yay Update! This is going great so far. Next ch. Buffy is going to meet Tara isn't she.lol
I can't wait to see what happens now that Willow knows.

[taralicious]

Londongal,
Being fairly conversant in the atmosphere and environment of Los Angeles as depicted in the film, Blade Runner being the masterpiece of future imaginings, it seemed natural that Willow would want to take Tara somewhere intimate, special, and rare.
The opposite of the atmosphere that everyday people were exposed to would logically be the rarefied atmopshere of a biosphere where everything was artificially controlled to simulate the climate of a bygone era.
Their picnic was as sweet as the food they feasted on; especially touching and intimate was Willow's reaction to Tara admitting that she had never tasted a strawberry before.
Yummy visual imagery of Willow switching places with Tara as Tara lay upon Willow's lap as Willow fed her strawberries in an elegant sensual playful motion.
Yay to Tara revealing her secret to Willow and Willow being the one to exclaim "Oh, yes" when Tara asked her if she was okay that Tara came to find her.
A showdown with Buffy/Faith looms heavily on the horizon as they go to meet up with the gang, however.

[drdj2006]

Sweet story I love it. So if they go tonight how are they going to trick Buffy and Faith? Are they just partners or are they a couple? Will Tara back up Xander’s heroic story on how he got hurt? So many questions but I will just have to wait and see. There for in lies the problem with being impatient. Update soon please.

jd

[Willowlover]

I hate to sound impatient espcialy to such an awsome author but please update soon i love this story and i cant wait to read more.. sorry for the impatience.

[LondonGal58]

Just wanted to apologise for the lack of an update in the last couple of weeks. Im almost there with a couple of more chapters ..but real life has got in the way..as Im unexpectedly changing jobs at the moment and its all. .. long hours and meeting's


hang in there Willowlover


LondonGal

[Artemis]

I finished catching up - really good beginning to the story. I especially like the tone of the world as you're writing it - I'm no Bladerunner expert, but it feels right. And it's not just that you're copying the movie, you're creating new elements and working logically with the story you've got, but in a way that feels like it's the same world we saw on screen. That's really rewarding, in a movie-based fic like this.

So, evidently Tara's a replicant - unless the whole thing is some kind of double-twist, and Tara's actually a human who's been set up somehow so that it seems she's a replicant, only she doesn't know. But assuming she is, it raises interesting questions - is Willow a bot too? If Tara's memories are manufactured, and Willow's in them, does that mean they both shared a manufactured past, or is Willow human, and somehow got into Tara's memories some other way? An intriguing situation, especially as the connection between them clearly runs both ways - whether or not Willow has ever dreamed of Tara (except in the metaphorical sense :-) ), she feels as instantly close to Tara as Tara does to her, and that can't be coincidence.

Neat concept, with Willow's black hair - and it provided a very nice moment when Tara sees, all unexpected, the Willow she remembers, after she's been with the black-haired version since meeting. Their picnic in the park was lovely too, and that environment was a very satisfying addition to the Bladerunner world.

[LondonGal58]

Here is the next couple of chapters, I hope everyone likes them, things should get back to normal from now on and aim to post a chapter a week (fIngers crossed)



Chapter 10: Pictures and Past’s

Two girls lay side by side eyes upward, watching two bird’s sing, hands intertwined in harmony.

“I don’t’ want to be the one to break the moment here. But when do we have to go?” The blonde enquired.

“We don’t have to go yet, besides I’m still trying to get my head around the whole, dreams thing?” The redhead frowned, but then smiled again.

“Its bugging you isn’t it” Tara chuckled

“You have no idea, dreams are part of us all, but we don’t usually have dreams of people we have never met”

“Willow, I’m sure it will work itself out” Tara gave her companion’s hand a squeeze.

Returning the squeeze Willow grinned “It’s a puzzle and I hate puzzles, ones that seem important anyway. After we’ve done the meet the friend’s thing....You’re totally ok about that right. I don’t want to be pushy”

Rolling over onto her side to face Willow, Tara reassured her “I’m fine with meeting the gang. A little nervous about Zander, stalking probably wasn’t the best introduction”

“I’m sure he will forgive you. Especially when I tell him about the circumstances” Willow smiled turning on her side to mirror the blonde “And If that doesn’t work I have plenty of bribery points that I can redeem”

“As I was saying” Willow continued “Tomorrow I’m going to be research gal and look into these dreams, see if we can’t find out why you have them”

“Willow I’m not sure I want to explain them, not in any scientific way anyway. Their part of me, a very private part of me...you know?” Tara pleaded.

Realising her error Willow looked directly into green eyes “I’m sorry Tara. I don’t want to do anything that upsets you. I really don’t. It just...”

“Bugs you” Tara winked.

Putting on her best mock sulk Willow replied “Yes. But if you don’t want me to use my considerable research skills then I won’t”

“I guess I’m just a little scared that it will ruin things. I know there should be an explanation. I’m just not sure I want to know what it is” Tara shyly smiled.

“Whatever the reason, it doesn’t matter. Its dreams not reality, what we do from now is real ok....Together” Willow reassured Tara emphasizing her point by reaching out to take the blonde’s hand again.

“Together I like the sound of that” Tara beamed.

And together they lay back down on the lush grass, hand in hand, to bask in the dappled afternoon sun from under the maple tree.

****

“Tara”

“Mmm” was the contented sleepy reply from Willow’s companion.

“Sorry to break this bliss. But I think we had better make a move, it’ll take longer to get back, and we probably should change before we go to meet everyone at the Hyperion”

“Ok, your right about changing I’ve got grass marks on my rear” Tara brushed herself down as she slowly got up.

“Tara, I didn’t think, have you something you’d be comfortable wearing. There isn’t a dress code, but I know how panicked I can get with outfits” Willow cautiously asked also rising.

“As long as they don’t mind jeans, boots and shirts, I didn’t bring any fancy stuff” Tara shrugged.

“That’s all Buffy wears and not with much colour variation either, you’ll fit in just fine” Willow reassured Tara as they gathered their bag and started to descend the hill again.

“Willow. How are we going to explain the dreams? I’m not sure they will understand” Tara said as she reached for the redheads hand for reassurance.

“I’ll gloss over the details; we can say you recognised me from the picture and decided to find me...if they go third degree. Let me tackle it ok” Willow replied giving an encouraging smile to Tara and seeing a shy nod in acknowledgment.

As they reached the bottom of the hill and turned towards the centre hub, where another small train station was located, Tara spun around once taking in the scene, committing it to memory.

“It seems a shame to leave this place; I can understand why people want to live here”

“Well if my Social Security Lotto entry comes up, I promise this is the place I’ll buy the mansion” Willow laughed.

****

As the pair entered the apartment and went to their respective corners. Tara to where her rucksack lay and Willow to her bed area. They both were having the same thoughts. Willow’s were I don’t want her to leave. Tara’s I don’t want to leave.

Unpacking some fresh clothes Tara, pulled out the picture she had carried with her on her journey. Smiling at the happy scene, she placed it on the corner computer table for safety, and went behind the screen to change.

Willow meanwhile had already decided to join Tara in wearing jeans and boots with the black denim shirt she had bought the day before.

“Messages work urgent only” She requested as she laid out the clothes on her bed, taking a moment to savour the memory of waking up with Tara that morning.

“1 Work urgent visual attachment included” the computer relayed.

Quickly changing Willow walked the length of the apartment, listening to the sound of a humming Tara from behind the screen. Taking a seat at the terminal she manually brought up the urgent email.

“You having fun behind there Tara?” Willow teased as the hum became louder.

Silence

“Fun?” was the puzzled reply from behind the screen.

“Yeah you were humming a lovely tune what was it?”

“Humming? I wasn’t was I?” Was the self-conscious reply from a now silent Tara.

“You were...its ok. I take it as a sign of happiness” Willow laughed

Seeing that the urgent email she had started to read was not urgent, but a thank you from
London. Willow went to check her bank balance for the payment from the client. Just as she was about to log into the banks website using her print recognition pad. Willow saw a digital picture in a pretty silver frame sitting on the desk. It was of Tara standing in front of two adult’s, the man had a protective hand on her shoulder, and the woman was looking slightly sideways adoringly at the child in front of her.

But it wasn’t the typical family portrait scene that stopped Willow in her tracks, or the site of a slightly younger Tara. It was the couple standing behind the blonde.

“Tara!” Willow shouted in panic.

“I’m almost ready” the blonde replied thinking Willow was anxious to leave.

“Tara, can you come here a minute” Willow tried to calm her voice, still unsure what she should say or do. Something was very wrong. Tara, how could she even begin to explain something she didn’t understand herself?

Together, that was what they had said, and together was how they would deal now.

Taking the picture off the desk, with one more look to confirm what she already knew. Willow got up and slowly walked to the couch sitting pensively for Tara to finish changing, the picture clasped tightly in both hands.

****

As soon as Tara emerged she saw Willow sitting quietly head bowed in what looked like prayer “Willow what is it?”

Moving to sit by the redhead, Tara saw the picture she knew so well in Willow’s tight grip. “Willow that’s just my parents, I carry the picture almost everywhere. I have a smaller version in my wallet too, see” Tara motioned to get her wallet from her jacket on top of her rucksack.

“Tara don’t go, just sit for a minute ok” Willow put a hand on Tara’s shoulder to stop her from moving.

“This picture” Willow pointed to the framed “Tell me as much as you can about it...please”

“It was taken on Mars Base 7 about 5 years ago. That’s the Air refinery there see” Tara pointed to the large tanks that could be seen in the floor to ceiling glass window that was behind the three smiling figures.

“Your parents they always lived in Mars right?” Willow said with a frown.

“No they came from Earth and settled about 2 years before I was born, that makes it about 24 years ago why”

“What were their names Tara” Willow asked sadly.

“John and Christine, why?”

“John and Christine McClay”

“Yes, Willow what is it? It’s just a memento. The memories are so sketchy. It helps to remind me of them”

Pointing to the picture Willow sighed “The couple behind you, I know them. I think I know why you have dreamt about me” pausing to look at Tara reassuringly, Willow explained “That’s John & Christine Bettisford”

“Bettisford?” Tara frowned.

Willow put down the picture on the low table “Jen’s parents”

“The girl you visited at Peacehaven”

Willow nodded.

“The dreams, your memories, I think they are something to do with Jennifer” Willow seriously explained.

“No their mine I feel it” Tara angrily rejected Willow’s words.

“I know they feel like yours Tara. The question is how are you and Jen linked, and who made up that photo to give you a fake family”

“Fake family?” Tara distress was palpable.

Taking Tara’s hand and gently lowering both of them to the floor Willow braced herself.

“Tara listen to me carefully ok. Something is wrong, I am so glad you came to find me. Nothing changes that, nothing, and together we will work this out...Together”

On the verge of tears Tara picked up the framed picture “You think my memories and this photo are fake?”

“Yes someone has screwed with your mind and in doing so has brought you to me” Willow half smiled.

“So they did one thing good” Tara returned the smile.

“Yeah they probably had no idea what trouble they were bringing on themselves” Willow winked before pulling Tara into a soothing embrace.

****

After a few minutes of the pair relishing the quiet comfort of their embrace, Tara pulled back “Do you still want to go out? My brains feeling a bit scrambled. I’m not sure I’ll be scintillating company”

“I’m the one who suggested meeting up, so I should go, plus I think Buffy might be able to help” Willow looked imploringly into green eyes.

“Help?” Tara looked anxiously at Willow.

“Yeah the one connection I know you and Jen have is the Tyrell Corporation, and Buffy might be a help there”

“In that case we go...together right” Tara smiled.

“Together” was the redhead’s earnest reply without a moment’s hesitation.

****

Chapter 11: Going Japanese

As the pair made their way down a dark narrow street, with tall warehouse buildings on either side, Tara’s nerves began to rise and she instinctively reached her right hand out to take Willow’s for comfort.

“You ok?” Willow asked feeling the warm hand take hers in a light grip.

“Yeah, just a bit jumpy, you think Buffy maybe able to help find out about me?”

“She has access to Tyrell HQ; if I’m going to do my research thing, I need her access to the building” Willow replied as she led Tara to a queue which was forming at the end of the street.

“This is it” Willow smiled in encouragement.

Tara could see the clubs patrons were a mixture of all races and creeds. She heard Mandarin, Spanish and she thought the couple kissing in front of them were whispering some form of Nordic language in each other ears.
Looking up at the sign on the wall she could see it was in Japanese “What does that say Willow?” Tara asked inquisitively.

“Oh that just says all weapons must be checked in at the security desk”

“This place isn’t dangerous is it?” Tara looked at Willow worriedly.

“No the Hyperion’s pretty safe actually, a lot of cops and private security personnel hang out here, so it keeps the unwanted elements out. Plus it helps the owner has Kishimoto-gumi Yakuzza connections”

“So no insulting Harukichi Yamaguchi then” Tara smirked cheekily.

“Not if we want to keep our fingers” Willow whispered in Tara’s ear.

Tara watched the two large Japanese doormen, smartly dressed in their all black suits, greeting the customers as they passed through the ornate metal double doors inside.

“konban wa” The nearest doorman greeted Willow with a short bow, as they got to the front of the queue.

“Evening Taro” Willow replied”Is Buffy here yet?”

“iie”

“arigatō, if you see her come though, can you tell her I’m in the usual spot ”

“No problem Willow, jā mata ne” Taro smiled letting the pair pass inside.

****

Handing their coats to a pair of bustling young boys, in return for small data keys, Willow pointed in the direction of a long line of booths down one side of the large open area.

“We usually camp out in the corner booths” Willow pointed across the dance floor to the far corner.

As the two made their way along the edges of the room, Tara saw a few couples were dancing to the mellow sounds of the slow song playing in the background. The majority of people seemed to be content to drink and talk rather than dance this early in the evening.

Taking seats on opposite sides of the booth, the pair looked around taking in the well lit large open space.

“The Japanese prints on the wall’s are nice” Tara pointed to the traditional Japanese temple print which hung on the wall next to them “I like all the wood too”

“That’s why we like the place. It’s clean and bright rather than the usual dark and dingy” Willow smiled.

Picking up a small electronic pad which was wired to the table Willow took out her wallet to swipe her money card through for drinks “They do every drink around plus cocktail’s so any requests?”

“Mmm I don’t fancy alcohol tonight” Tara mused “Do they do Honeymoon’s?”

“One Honeymoon on the way” Willow tapped their order onto the pad “Cherry or no cherry?”

“No cherry thanks” Tara beamed”What about you?”

“Moscow mule for me” Willow replied putting the pad back in its holder in the table.

As the pair settled into a comfy silence, each contemplating their feelings as they waited for the drinks to arrive, Willow recognised a slow song starting. Putting on her best cheeky grin, she rose to her feet and plucked up the courage to ask Tara to dance.

“Dance with me” she implored.

“Willow it’s a slow one” Tara coyly replied.

Taking Tara’s hand and gently trying to get her to rise, Willow smiled as reassuringly as she could “Come on one song, you can duck out anytime after that ok”

Letting herself be led to the dancefloor, Tara put a hand around Willow’s waist, as she felt Willow’s arm go to hers pulling her closer. Resting their heads against each others shoulders, the pair gently swayed and turned to the music they no longer seemed to hear.

“Mmm” Tara murmured into Willow’s ear.

“One song, not enough” Willow whispered

And so they slowly spun forgetting the untouched drinks sitting on their unoccupied table.

****

“Damn I’m late as usual” Buffy puffed as she jogged along a dark alley that she knew was a short cut to the Hyperion.

Turning the corner into a busy street filled with market stall’s she spotted a rickshaw dropping off a pair of passengers.

“Hey” she shouted over the throng of vendors shouting competing slogans at passers by.
Seeing the rickshaw driver look in her direction, and putting up her hand up in recognition, she made her way though the throng to the waiting vehicle.

“Evening can you get me to the Hyperion Japantown in 10 minutes without killing us”

“No problem but if I’m going to go full out its double ok” The tall blonde youth replied taking his bandana and retying it around his neck.

“Wouldn’t have expected anything else, its worth it to cut down on the ribbing” Buffy smiled.

Settling down in the leather seat behind the blonde she relaxed into the motion of the rickshaw’s wheels as they picked up speed.

This guy’s good she mused, he’s got the glutes to prove it too.

****

[LondonGal58]

Just wanted to say thankyou for the feedback it really is nice, particularly when writing late at night.

anyone who wants to know whats in a honeymoon (tara's drink) its a
mocktail.It is made by pouring two parts honey, two parts orange juice, two parts apple juice and one part lime juice into a shaker, with crushed ice. The drink is shaken, and then poured into a glass; it is often served with a maraschino cherry.

Be well and happy

LondonGal

[spells42]

Hey London Gal
I'm enjoying this story... The futuristic setting is interesting and you have fitted in the BtVS characters in a very convincing way. Willow and Tara are very sweet, and I loved their day at Peacehaven.

I'm nervous about the upcoming meeting with Buffy.... Will her loyalty to Willow win out over her duty as an officer of Tyrell's, and will she be able to keep the secret from Faith? The connection to Jennifer's family is intriguing. I have all sorts of hypotheses to account for it, and I can't wait to see if any of them are right.

thanks, looking forward to more.
Anne

[taralicious]

So we come to it at last.
The juncture in Tara's life when she finds out that everything she thought she was and everything she has based her perception of herself around is the province of someone else entirely.
From now on, she is free to redefine herself in her togetherness with Willow. provided that Faith and Buffy don't introduce her to the business end of a gun.

[Artemis]

Well, there's an explosion coming - Buffy knows Tara's face from her report (right?), and she's certainly not going to be comfortable with Willow hanging around with a replicant. Even if she buys Willow's argument that Tara's no threat, as a Bladerunner I doubt she'll be inclined to just let Willow and Tara keep investigating Tara's past as they have been. On the other hand, she may be of some help, beyond just getting Willow into the Tyrell building.

With it seeming more and more likely that Tara's a replicant, there's even more angst in her future - what must it be like to find out that your life, as you believed it, is a fiction? Plus, recalling the first chapter, she's about four years 'old' at this point - as a Nexus 6, that means she could be facing the end of her operational lifespan, unless some countermeasure can be found. Then again, she's already unusual for a Nexus 6 - unlike the ones in the movie (presumably due to her 'memories', as with Deckard's girlfriend) she's got an adult level of emotional maturity, as opposed to the four-year-old emotional maturities of Batty and his crew, so it's possible she's an unusual replicant in other ways.

That's all assuming she is a replicant - I'm not ruling out a double-plot-twist there

[justin]

This is a very good story. I'm enjoying the way you've blended the BtVS characters into the Blade Runner world.

Like most people here I'm intrigued about what's going on and feeling rather nervous about when Buffy first meets Tara.

Looking forward to reading more

[LondonGal58]

Hi Guys sorry about the lack of any updates on this story. I blame it on moving house and a new job, whitch is hopefully settlng down now. Anyway I did continue writing just not at any great pace, plus to honest I wasnt all that happy about certain bits until alot of rewrites..

I hope you can forgive me and enjoy.

PS. As always feedback greatfully received and anyone who fancies volunteering for beta duties (my old beta reader's indisposed at the moment) send us a mail and I promise to reply asap.

Anyway here it is !

Chapter 12: Trust & Tests

“Hi Taro mind if I jump the queue”

“No problem Buff, Willow is on the dance floor with a real pretty one”

“A pretty one? You mean my Will’s getting her groove on with someone of the female persuasion?” Buffy was used to the idea of Willow being gay. Willow actually being with someone, now that was different. This she had to see.

Hurriedly turning to the security desk just inside the door, Buffy knelt down, pulled up her left jean leg so she could undo her ankle holster and deposit Mr R for safekeeping.
Taking her data key she wasted no time in scanning the dancefloor for her friend.
There they are, Ohh yeah that’s Willow and she is definitely getting up close and personal with someone.

Rather than break up a private moment Buffy went to the bar to get a drink and wait for the slow song to end.

Sitting on a vacant stool she scanned the bottles in the glass fridge behind the bartender “Konban wa, kudasai Budweiser” Seeing him struggle and finally point at the correct stack of bottles Buffy nodded “Hai sore arigatō”

“Ikura desu ka?” Buffy asked taking out her wallet “How much?”

“95000 Yen” The bartenders replied, as he slid the pad across the bar for Buffy to pay.
“They’ve been like that for half an hour now”

“Who has?” spinning around on her stool she saw who the bartender was talking about.

In the centre of the dancefloor, still in their own invisible cocoon were Willow and the blonde, slowly spinning in an embrace that left no doubt. They were a couple with no prospect of letting go of each other any time soon.

Turning back to the bartender, with a dry smile.

“Seriously half an hour?”

Swivelling back around on her chair Buffy couldn’t resist.

“Go Will’s!” Buffy shouted hoping to get Willow’s attention in the most embarrassing way.

Seeing the couple stop then turn, Buffy took a good look at the girl who had Willow’s hand on her shoulder.

“What the! You have got to be kidding, I’ve got better Karma than that” Buffy was totally thrown.

Putting down her drink, Buffy jumped off her stool and ignoring Willow calling her went straight for the entrance and security desk.

“Taro stop anyone else coming in, and get as many people out without causing a panic as you can, things are about to get freaky”

“Freaky?” Taro wasn’t familiar with the word.

“The blonde with Willow is on my list, get one of the guys to cover the back exit, she makes a run for it, stop her” Buffy ordered, already handing her date key to the security desk. “Ohh and Taro, anyone touches Willow they’ll lose more than fingers”

****

That’s weird where’s Buffy going? I’m sure she shouted to us.
“Buffy over here!” Willow wanted to introduce Tara, plus the sooner she asked her for help the sooner they might get some answers on the weird things going on.

Ok maybe she needed to ask Taro something? Why does she need her gun?

****

Seeing Buffy in full Bladerunner mode wasn’t something you forgot, all purposeful strides, stern face and gun pointed straight at the target. The idea of people getting out without a panic was clearly not going to work. They were all either running for the exit screaming, or at the very least parting like the Dead Sea as Buffy closed in on the stage-struck pair who were the only two people not moving. The noise of chairs flying and tables being pushed over to be used as barriers, drowned out the music, and alerted the bar staff to the impending violence, causing them to bodily drag bar stool occupant’s off their stool’s and over the counter for safety.

“Willow move she’s a skin job”

“What...NO!” Willow instinctively moved in front of Tara blocking Buffy’s shot “You’re not killing her Buffy, She’s not a replicant”

“She is according to Tyrell; I’ve got to take her in, so move your butt out the way” Seeing Tara move from behind Willow, Buffy took out a restraint bracelet from her back pocket with her free hand and made a move for Tara’s arm.

“No Buffy you don’t understand, something’s wrong, there is no way she’s a replicant she has memories” Willow reasoned trying to get herself between Buffy and her prey.

Stepping right in front of the Bladerunner Tara turned to Willow “Do you trust Buffy?” raising her left arm so Buffy could do her job.

“Of course I do. But this is wrong Tara, all wrong, and she is going to put you in who knows what danger”

“If you trust her then I will too” Tara calmed Willow

Once the bracelet was on Buffy reached into her jacket and activated the charge.

Turning back to Buffy Tara asked her captor “There is a test right; to see if someone is a replicant?”

“Sure the Voigt-Kampff test or a Bone Marrow Biopsy” Buffy added “Your not serious though, you mean you’ll voluntarily do one?”

“I’m curious to see what happens too, one condition though, we do it all at Willow’s and If I pass, you help me find out who I am”

“And if you fail?” Buffy was puzzled; no replicant would ask for testing unless trapped, it was a death sentence.

“Then I’ll know what I am and you can take me in” Tara shrugged letting herself be walked across the now deserted dancefloor towards the back exit.

“Ok you’ve got a deal, there is definitely something different about you for them to not want you retired on the spot”

“Willow go home, we’ll meet you there with the kit in 2 Hours” Buffy ordered to an angry Willow who couldn’t believe Tara was actually going through with this insane arrangement. She must know there was a good chance she would fail the test.

“Before we go anywhere here is the drill on the cuff, you get more than 10 feet from my responder, and the bracelet shoots off an electric charge large enough to fry you on the spot, so no sightseeing”

Grabbing Tara’s wrist Willow stopped the pair as they reached the exit “Tara wait a minute, what happened to together?”

“It’ll be alright, trust me” Tara smiled.

Putting on her best resolve face Willow tightened her grip on Tara “I’m coming with”

Cutting Willow off Buffy booted the back door to the Hyperion open with a swift kick “No Will until I know better I want contact minimised, I’m taking a big enough risk walking around town with her as it is – Go Home!”
And with that Bladerunner and Blonde were gone into the night



Chapter 13: To flee or not to flee that is the question

Willow was panicking there was no other way to describe the redheads frantic movements around her apartment.

“Dam it why does no one listen to me when I say DANGER” She had paced. She had tried to access Tyrell’s network from her home terminal. A long shot she knew, no large corporation was that dumb. Willow needed her Hack bag, and she wasn’t stupid enough to leave that lying around her apartment in case of a raid. It would take her an hour to have it couriered to her, and if Tara & Buffy didn’t show in the next 30 minutes, she was going to get that bag and use it to find answers. After which she would cause so much damage to the Tyrell network , no one would be able to purchase a paperclip, yet alone use it to harm Tara or spirit her away.

“Calm down me” Willow finally sat down on the couch and tried to convince herself that Tara was fine, she was with Buffy. But if Buffy became convinced Tara was a replicant, no one would be able to stop her. Willow had heard the stories; she enjoyed the tales of stakeouts and chases through NSF’s streets with the inevitable end a win for the Bladerunners. The odds were stacked in their favour, always had been. They had resources, and above all time, no one could remain undetected in the modern age for ever. You had to travel, sleep somewhere, or eat. All requiring one thing money, and usually that was how you traced someone, getting a new identity was an option but that cost more than most people had, an option for an elite few who had the resources and the contacts to start anew.

“Giles!” Willow shouted

“Giles Rupert; Willow do you wish to Voice call. Email, Video mail, Instant Message, GPS trace, Send credit to, access latest Blog entry, advise of medical situation, send favourite music tracks to, or send itinerary to the listed person” the computer enquired.

“Locate GPS”

“The transponder for Rupert Giles #14587264/489 currently locates Mr Rupert Giles at 456 Elmwood, London, 78961/4566 heart rate currently indicates he is asleep with REM sleep indicator’s. Do you wish to wake the individual?”

“Yes urgent transponder vibrate level 6”

Moving from the couch back to her computer Willow waited for Giles to wake, which if Level 6 was what she thought it was wouldn’t be long.

“Beep”
“Incoming com’s from Rupert Giles audio only”

“Answer audio level 4 computer” Willow hurriedly composed herself.

“Willow I must insist you don’t use anything above a level 3 unless you intend to send me to meet the Thetan’s earlier than I would wish” A complaining English accent bellowed.

“Sorry Giles, you should set a limit on it, us Americans aren’t used to your internal trackers” Willow smiled at the thought of a sleeping Giles being violently woken by the nearest thing to an aneurism someone could have without actually dieing.

“Yes, well most people are respecters of the concept of sleep. I take it you must need my services urgently”

“Yes Giles I do, I need 2 people to disappear for a bit while I figure something out, it’s me plus one” Willow sheepishly replied twirling an errant pen in her hand, that she had absently picked up.

“Willow who have you upset? You’re usually so careful, that why I like to use your services on occasion”

“It’s not me that’s upset someone, well not enough to have to skip town anyway. It’s a friend; she needs to lie low, totally under the radar. In fact a completely new identity wouldn’t be a bad idea; you know ID papers, Birth registration, and residency permit”

Silence.

“Willow you know that stuff’s not easy, even for a man of my talents and resources. When does all this need to be in place and more importantly. I’ll only be able to set it up for London and not the pleasant part either”

Slumping slightly in her seat Willow considered Giles less than heartening news.

“I’ll need to get back to you with details, I just wanted to start the ball rolling, and more importantly know if it could be done”

“Of course it can be done child, it’ll cost me about £50,000 for both of you, and take about a week”

“That’s about 125,000 US right?” Willow quickly calculated in her head, amongst a rapidly growing list of things she would need for her plan.

“That’s right, if you don’t mind me asking? I’m not getting myself involved in anything dangerous to my health am I “

“It’s messy Giles, to be honest I don’t know what’s behind this at the moment, have you heard of the Tyrell Corporation? “

“Yes of course my dear. Nasty business they’re in, gives me the creeps to think what old Tyrell got up too. They messed with the very concept of humanity”

“Well I think they’re up to something and my friends in the firing line”

“In that case, you need say no more. I’ll wake up my contact now and get him working on this full time”

“Thanks Giles, can you try and look for a suitable safe house too, with at least a T15 network connection, ohh and once again thank you. I’ll owe you a lot, be prepared for some majorly embarrassing displays of affection when we arrive”

“I’m sure it goes without saying Willow, you, and your friend, sit tight and keep safe until I can set up all the arrangements ok”

“Will do Giles”

“See you soon my child”

“Beep”


Chapter 14: Vibes and Visits

As Buffy walked along a relatively deserted street, making sure Tara was front and centre as ordered, she couldn’t help but speculate. What kind of Rep volunteers for testing has memories and let’s be honest here hasn’t got that vibe.

They always have the vibe, an agitated, life speeded up thing. You could always detect it if you got close and had contact with one for any length of time.

They hummed with it, as if they had it programmed into them. Sure some had tamed it in order to live longer, slow down their metabolism using various drug combinations, or yoga and the like. But ultimately they always run out of juice in the end.

Damn it what was Tara’s incept date, if she croaks now Willow will be devastated, talk about bad luck. Mind you better to know now than six months down the line when Willow was really hooked.

“Tara, how long have you known Willow?”

As Tara slowed and turned, Buffy caught the broad grin on Tara’s face at the mere mention of her friend’s name. Double damn they both have it bad.

“Not long I only arrived yesterday” Tara shrugged “Actually can I ask a favour”

“Ask away; just don’t ask me to lie to my best friend. If you are a Rep, It’s over. Finito. You won’t ever see, or speak to her again. Its just too dangerous for human’s to get involved with Synthetics. They have a tendency to get killed in the crossfire, and I won’t let that happen to her”

Tara nodded “That wasn’t what I wanted to ask, and I get it, I really do. If I am one of them, I’ll be no trouble. It’s just.....please let me tell her...privately calmly in my own way”

Feeling less and less sure of Tara’s replicancy with every minute, Buffy frowned.

“Sure ...but you gotta be at least 90% sure of passing right. Or we wouldn’t be doing this thing. Turn right ahead into Revello, my place is just down there on the right”

Taking the turn as directed Tara stated something she knew with all her heart.

“I just know it, deep inside me. That I want. No need, to be with Willow. whatever it takes. Except one thing, I won’t put her in danger for me. If I am a replicant, then that’s it my life’s over, a sham of a life anyway. If I pass then another hurdle appears. Why does my employer want to get me back so bad, and that’s where you come in. I will need your help, but not at Willow’s expense. Promise me that, you’ll keep Willow safe”

“It’s a guarantee, Willow’s not some fragile flower you know, she has skills. But your right Tyrell are big, if it gets nasty, I’ve got her back and front. Now come on lets get this done”

As the pair entered the lobby to Revello Heights Buffy directed Tara to the stairs.

“It’s only on the Second Floor; forgive me but confined spaces with suspects, not a good idea”

Being careful to not get too far in front of the Runner, Tara nodded “Will Dawn be there, from what Willow said she seems nice”

With a hearty laugh that Buffy stifled as best she could “Nice that’s a new one, no she’s at Janice’s next door. If she was home you’d be cuffed in my car out back”

As they reached a door just to the right of the stairs, Buffy motioned for Tara to stop “Give me a second, just got to sort out security. No wandering”

“Got it” Tara acknowledged letting Buffy by. The Runner then took off a small key fob from around her neck and pressed it against a metal plate in the middle of the purple door.

“Beep, Enter Door code now, you have 10 seconds to comply” came a stern male voice from above the pair.

Buffy duly looked at the LCD display on the rear of the key, which had generated a random 6 digit code and entered it onto a 3x3 9 digit entry pad that appeared on the previously blank piece of metal.

“Welcome to chez Summers”

Following Buffy into a large lounge area Tara saw a large holo TV clearly tuned into one of the many Music Video channels.

Buffy also spotting the offending device shouted out “Dawn Ann Summers if you’re here get your butt in here, now!”

Silence except for a particularly annoying rap artist stating what he wanted to do to President Aoki.

“Tara stay here. She’s probably left the thing on as she rushed out for more important things than energy conservation; you know actually saving the planet”

Leaving Tara to look around from her spot in the centre of the lounge Buffy made her way to her sister’s room on the right side of the apartment which sported the same purple paint as the front door.

Seeing Buffy disappear Tara immediately looked at her watch, and thought of her last conversation with Willow about a hour ago. “I’m sorry love, it’s for the best, I’m sure of it”

Suddenly an ear piercing cry came from Dawn’s room.

“Tara”

Running towards the sound Tara entered the bedroom to see Buffy on the floor holding a pale auburn haired girl in her arms. She was clearly unconscious and limp, her breathing shallow and laboured.

“Buffy let me help, quickly, what meds does Dawn take”

Looking up with panic Buffy responded “Mmm. Prednisone and Theophylline I think”

“Good get them, I’ll take care of her” Tara ordered.

“But, I don’t know where they are!” Buffy howled tears streaming.

“We have time; go get the bag she would have taken to her friends”

Dropping to the floor and taking the prone teenager from her distraught sister Tara immediately laid her down, tipping her head to the side and gently resting it on her lap.

“Dawn, I’m Tara, listen to my voice, its going to be ok, can you relax for me honey”

Taking Dawn’s pale clammy hand into hers, Tara started to gently squeeze in a steady rhythm. Then gently brushing Dawn’s hair away from her face and smiling tenderly Tara continued “Breath for me, try and keep up with my squeezes, that’s it good ..good”

“Buffy how are you doing, any luck...Buffy!”

Hearing a dash of feet behind her Buffy appeared.

“Got it, but she’s never this bad, never”

Continuing to squeeze Dawn’s hand Tara started to feel for a pulse on her wrist.

“Can you load up the inhaler with the Theophylline for me, it should work just fine”

Handing the inhaler to Tara, Buffy mutely knelt down and waited, not wanting to crowd the medic in her work.

As Tara took the inhaler mask and placed it over Dawn’s mouth pressing the bag to pump the first lifesaving breaths of the drug into the teen, she prayed that it would do its work as swiftly as she hoped.

After a few minutes when only the sound of the inhaler pumping broke the silence Tara turned to Buffy with a grin.

“Buffy can you help me get Dawn onto the bed, I’m sure she’ll be more comfortable there”

Moving closer Buffy indicated for Tara to move to the side so she could lift her sister up smoothly.

“It’s ok I work out, you just keep that inhaler going”

Once Dawn was safely tucked in bed both the women sunk to the floor exhausted.

Buffy was the first to voice her thoughts “Thank you that was way scary, you think she’ll be ok so I can kill her?”

Tara gave a quick glace at the teen, who had it seems come round, and was rolling her eyes at her sister.

“Why don’t you ask her yourself?”

Buffy immediately jumped on the duvet that was being pushed to one side by Dawn who it seemed was looking for a quick getaway.

“Not so fast missy, you are going nowhere until Tara says so right Dr Maclay”

Looking forlornly at the blonde newcomer Dawn decided cold reasoning was in order.

“I’ve had my scare for the month right Dr? With all those med’s in my system I’m good to go for at least 24 hours, even if my overprotective sister here would like to turn me into the girl in the bubble”

Tara looked from sister to sister and shook her head frowning.

“First of all I’m not a Dr just a medic. Buffy and it’s not fair to mislead Dawn. Secondly you’re not out of the shuttle bay yet Dawn, so you need to have someone around to keep an eye on you, do you still want to go next door?”

Dawn furiously nodded her head and smiled sweetly as if butter wouldn’t melt in her mouth.

Buffy seeing that this conversation wasn’t going her way interrupted.

“Hey legal Guardian trumps, sucker for an angel face, but I’ve got some stuff that need’s doing tonight” Looking directly at Tara “So Janice will have to do for Dawn watch. But you are to stay put and do really boring things ok, and I’m going to give Janice my if Dawn’s not back in the same condition she left in speech. The very special one that I had reserved for all future boyfriends”

Seeing a good deal when she saw it Dawn ran for the purple door only turning to mouth “Thank you” to Tara behind a hot on heels Buffy.

“Buffy Cuff’s!” Tara shouted.

Stopping dead in her tracks Buffy turned sheepishly and rummaged into her pocket for the responder.

“Oh God sorry, Bad Runner, look here is the responder, stay put I’ll only be five minutes putting the fear of decapitation into a teen”

****

Finding herself alone for the first time since the evening’s rollercoaster had started Tara looked at her watch.

“Shit Willow’s going to be going frantic. Phone!”

Moving back into the main living area, Tara started a search for anything resembling communications.

Before anything came into sight a loud chirp sounded and the Holo TV automatically muted.

“Buffy, If your there so must Tara be. Can you put her on please; it’s a kind of proof of life thing. If your not there. CALL ME IMMEDIATELY WHEN YOU GET THIS MESSAGE OR SO HELP ME I’LL CANCEL EVERY CREDIT CARD YOU HAVE!”

Hearing the voice she most desperately wanted to hear Tara shouted into the air.

“Honey, its me, I’m fine. We just had an emergency. Can you hear me?”

After a short pause Tara got her reply.

“You sure you’re ok? What kind of emergency? I need info here. I’m going crazy waiting for you two”

Moving towards the Holo TV which seemed the source of the voice Tara sat down cross-legged in front of the screen which although now silent was still showing pop videos.

“It’s good to hear your voice Willow. I’m fine Dawn had an attack. We will be there soon I promise. Hang on in there for me”

Tara could feel the calming effect just speaking was having on both of them as she waited for a reply.

“As long as you’re ok, that’s all that matters, Dawns fine right? Oh and I’ve a bit of a plan that I need to tell you about”

Smiling the blonde had an idea.

“She’s fine Watchya doing now Willow?”

“Just sitting at my computer getting really frustrated that you’re not with me”

“Can you put me on speaker and go lay on the couch for me?”

“Um ok moving to the couch, I’m lying”

“Ok close you eyes and lay as still as you can”

“Got it being still”

“And quiet” the Blonde chuckled.

Silence.

“Imagine a deserted beach with golden sand, there are palm trees behind us and Blue Ocean in front of us. Oh and you and me are just laying there on the soft sand your eye’s are closed against the bright sun. Your bikini by the way very sexy I like Red”

“Wow”

“Quiet remember Or I’ll stop”

“Sorry just caught a peek of your bikini top”

“Hay not fair! Back to this island; listen to the sound of the waves gently lapping at our toes. Feel me take your hand in mine and draw small circles on the palm”

“Mmm” Came a soft sound from the ether.


Placing her hands on each knee in a classic meditation pose Tara closed her eyes and started to sing.


“Here as I lay beside you, I know
How grateful my heart feels
Knowing that you've come
In my world to stay
Now I know my life has finally begun
That dream, that's promised everyone
Now when the world around me looks grey
I look into your eyes
And all the darkness goes
I can find my way
Finally I know I'm never alone
A light inside will lead me home
Remember it's all there is
Remember it's all there was
The answer is right here in our hands
And know if our hearts are true
There's nothing we have to do
You and me for always
Now when I wake each morning
I say
No need to look ahead
Leave the past behind
Here's a brand new day
Suddenly my life is perfectly clear
The love we found was always here
Remember it's all there is
Remember it's all there was
The answer is right here in our hands
And know if our hearts are true
There's nothing we have to do
You and me for always
Never ending
Never changing
The answer is here in our hands
Always reaching
Always climbing
You and me for always
Ever loving
Ever lasting
The answer is here in our hands
Always changing
Always loving”
Opening her eyes again Tara smirked “You still here hun?”

After a long hush Tara heard a sound like someone coughing.

“Um Tara, I think you’ve broken my friend’s emotion chip” An uncomfortable Buffy whispered in Tara’s ear.

Swiftly turning to see a red faced Buffy with a face of mock outrage to cover her embarrassment Tara snapped “Buffy you sneaky! You should have said you were back”

Rising up to go gather her kit bag, the very thing they had both come to the apartment to get, Buffy glibly replied “I didn’t want to kill the mood, besides it isn’t often you get to hear a voice that fine, your really good, that song even got me going”

“Thank you but it wasn’t meant for you it was meant for only Willow. Willow can you still hear me?”

Suddenly a crash came from the direction of the TV.

“Dam it sorry Tara I’m here, I think I just bust something fragile and glasslike. That was a beautiful song, it really was, and I wish we were together so I could show my appreciation. You’re on your way now right?”

Feeling the redhead’s impatience Buffy shouted “Put the kettle on in ten minutes were on our way”

“Ok will do, Tara love you, Buffy love you too“




Chapter 15: Questions and More Questions

On the stroke of 22.00 hours Willow decided that the space she had rapidly cleared on the low table for Buffy’s machine was large enough, and their was now no remaining glass on the floor from the vase she had knock over after the impromptu song.

“That song was amazing, I wonder were she leaned to sing?”

Anxiously sitting back down, as if waiting for the worst kind of dental treatment, Willow’s mind went into overdrive.

“Computer time since last outgoing voice call?”

“Beep. Nine minutes 20 seconds”

As if on cue, the computer answered Willow’s next question.

“Lobby entry requested by Buffy Summers, Access will be granted under Friend code 658 in 5 seconds unless master override requested”

“No override, send lift to lobby to collect, one or two life signs?”

“2 life signs confirmed”

“Thank you turn off heat pad 2”

“Confirmed”

Moving over to the kitchen area to pour three coffee’s Willow waited for the two most important people in her life to return and decide if they were going to be friends or enemies.

“You can stop panicking; see I bought her back all in one piece” Buffy shouted as she opened the door with her access key “Where do you want the gear?”

“Set it up on the table there will you. Tara can I have a word?”

Sensing Willow wasn’t finished with the Hyperion conversation Tara looked out to the red tinged sky “Sure let’s take our coffees onto the balcony, while Buffy does her stuff”

Once outside in the crisp night air Tara waited for Willow to start the exchange expecting fireworks.

“You ok?”

Moving close to Willow and taking her hand to re-establish their connection Tara gave her characteristic half smile.

“Um yeah I’m fine, bit worried about this test. Buffy says it’s pretty cut and dry about 20 questions and that’s it.”

Frowning in dismay Willow got to the heart of what she wanted to know.

“Why did you suggest it then, its really risky you know. If this goes the wrong way Buffy’s in a real spot , because there is no way I’m going to let her take you way from me, no way at all”

“If I’m a replicant then me going away would probably be for the best Willow. I know we said together, but if there is a price on my head then that putt’s you in the firing line and that’s not ok. I’d rather go and fight with all my heart to learn the truth on my own. So I can get back to you, than you get hurt because of me”

Willow’s frown grew “Well you had better be prepared for me to be like a limpet because I’m not letting you go”

Moving together into a tight hold the pair fell into silence only to be interrupted by Buffy knocking on the glass to indicate she was ready.

“Ok let’s do this” The pair said in unison and hand in hand went to get some answers.

****

Indicating the end seat on the Sofa, Buffy gestured for Tara to be seated “Ok you sit there please and try and stay as still as you can, ok. Willow can you sit on the other end there, so you’re out of view of the iris recognition camera”

Once the pair were seated Buffy knelt down on the opposite side of the low table and made her final adjustments to the device that resembled the old fashioned 1990’s laptops”

“Last chance Tara, you sure you want to do this?”

Nodding her accent Tara waited for the first question.

“Can you state your full name please “

“Tara Maclay”

“Address”

“Mars Colony Base 4 medical”

“Ok that’s the baseline, let’s start. You need to keep your head as still as possible ok and answer the question’s from you gut, don’t think too hard, it’s not advanced mathematics”

Taking a deep breath Buffy started the battery of question’s which she knew by heart and prayed Tyrell and screwed up.

“You’re in a queue for to pay for groceries and a mother and young child are in front of you. The child tries to grab one of the sweets by the counter and the mother spot’s this and berates the child causing the child to cry terribly and apologise. The mother continues to shout even when the child is visibly distraught. What do you do?”

“I would intervene and try and put a stop to it, it sounds nasty”

“You have a pet Rabbit and it’s old and sick with no prospect of recovery. What do you do?”

“I’d go to the Vet if they said it was in pain, I’d have it put down humanely”

“You are travelling on a crowded train and you see there is only one seat left, do you take it?”

“No I’m healthy, I would look to see if someone was more in need”

“What’s you favourite song?”

“Mmm I don’t know. I like Tao Kaliami, John Turant, and The Beatles. I don’t have a favourite song it depends on my mood sorry”

“Its ok next question, what do you look for in a partner?”

“Um, that’s a bit personal, honesty and a kind heart, plus a vagina’s a must Heehee”

“Good to know. I’d gladly vouch for Willow on all three counts”

“You’re scheduled for a Job interview and a distant friend who you know is more qualified for the Job asks you about it, because they are unhappy at their present job. Do you tell them or not?”

“If I needed the job badly, no I wouldn’t, a girl’s got to eat right. Not nice I know but I’d look out for any other Job’s and tell them about it if it makes a difference”


After about 10 more questions Buffy smiled and rising with immense speed rushed to Tara to give her a big hug almost sending both of them flying.

“Oxygen, becoming an issue “Tara gasped.

Loosening her grip and making way for a beaming Willow, who wanted her turn. Buffy breathed a sigh of relief.

“I think you’ll both guess the result right, your human, empathy rating’s way up there I bet your a great nurse”

Leaving the pair to their private moment, which seemed to involve a lot of stroking of faces with hands and feverish kissing. Buffy retreated to a safe distance quietly happy that she was out of one hell of a catch-22. She now realised however they had entered another.

“What on earth are Tyrell playing at putting out an APB on someone using Bladerunners?”

****

After a time Willow and Tara’s urge to just cling with all their might together subsided and they pulled back a little to look into each other eye’s. Willow was the first to speak after wiping away the start of a tear and sniffling.

“I’m sorry I’m not usually teary, you really scared me there you know”

Starting to brush away a few stray hairs from Willow’s head Tara smiled.

“I’m sorry Honey, but I had to know and at least I’m not about to keel over any minute right”

Smiling back the redhead too started to play with Tara’s blonde hair.

“Yeah, we still have to sort out you being wanted though; you remember I said about a plan I was going to tell you about. Well I think we should disappear for a while until we can sort this out”

Hearing the pair mention a plan Buffy decided the time was right to put in her vote.

“If you two are talking about going south of the border for a bit and getting drunk on tequila, I say stellar idea. At least until I can find out more information on what’s going on. It’s not safe in the US”

Turning between the two blondes, who seemed to be looking at her for idea’s Willow shared her plan.

“Well I was thinking further a field to somewhere colder and where they drink whisky, say London?”

“Giles!” Buffy exclaimed remembering the kindly man who she had taken great pleasure in embarrassing on the few occasions they had met by flirting outrageously to shock his great British reserve.

“I’ve already got him working on his end” Willow explained as she outlined her idea for buying time for her and Buffy to do some major digging.

Once she had finished, both Buffy, and more importantly Tara, agreed that getting out of Dodge so to speak was a very good idea. Before they went however Buffy and Willow needed to do one thing to ensure they could dig into Tara’s records at Tyrell.

The Tyrell mainframe, at least the part that they needed to crack, was only accessible if someone could get inside the Tyrell building and physically cut into the T20 lines to fit a two way link for Willow to use. That someone was going to be Buffy.

“So we have a plan. Tara you’re on packing duties here. Pack as much as you can up to say 55 kilo’s as my geek kit weighs 15. Buffy you’re off to Tyrell after we pick up my gear. Me I’m going to hot foot it back here are giving you a hacking lesson, to set up the sweeper and test the link once you give the ok”

Buffy nodded her ok to the plan first adding “Getting in’s no problem my ID’s good, I’ll just say I’m following up a lead. You say where you want this super snooper Hacker Girl and its done”

Tara was happy to stay behind on this one “I’ll be backup gal any late night takeout request’s as a celebratory meal”

“Chinese gets my vote” Willow suggested

“Fine with me” Buffy shrugged “So Operation Trio’s good to go?”

“Yep, Tara I should be gone about 2 hours, no one should call or anything so ignore the phone. Giles has my cell which I’ll take with me, any question’s reservations or suggestions?”

Pulling Willow into a hug and whispering “Just come back safe, and soon” into her ear, Tara shooed the pair out the door, and started to busy herself making a quick list of must have’s for London. Totally unaware she was being watched.


Chapter 16: The Watcher

Faith was surprised to see that it looked like her partner was helping a known fugitive.

That’s certainly how it looked from her vantage point in a dank vacant apartment opposite her target’s current location.

She had received a call from one of the Tyrell top dog’s aides, advising her that CCTV had picked up a skin job on their list at the Hyperion and tracked it back to Newsom Heights.

“There’s a tidy reward of 250k US if you can get the target onto a shuttle that’s waiting at SFO until 06.00 tomorrow. Alive and intact of course, strictly on the QT so no help from central ops or partners”

250K was a whole lot of cash. Enough for a deposit on a decent place on the east side of the bay. Not the sort of riches to turn down, or split two ways if you could help it either.

So Faith had grabbed her gear and set up shop opposite. Not expecting to see three people in the apartment on the 78th floor. The skin job. A cute redhead and her partner, who didn’t look like she was about to make any moves soon. In fact she looked very chummy indeed with 250k of walking reward.

Not long after setting up they all disappeared further inside for a bit.

It looked like things were looking up now though; the redhead and Buffy were just departing down the central street to her right. Leaving the Rep alone, the perfect opportunity to get over there and grab Blondie before either of them came back.

Plenty of time to get to the Airport too “You snooze you lose partner” Faith chuckled as she gathered up her equipment making sure she left no trace of her presence.

****

Well there you go next update next month (should be a big one) and hope it was worth the wait.


LondonGal

[Artemis]

This is cool - I liked Buffy's reaction, she's got the hardened Blade Runner attitude toward replicants, but she's also no fool and she knows when something fishy is going on. It was nice to revisit the test scenes from the movie, but I wonder, is it possible Tara's a replicant after all, in spite of the test? I'm just going from vague memories of the movie (it's been a while since I rented it), but didn't Deckard have to test whatshername for several hundred questions before he figured out that she was a replicant? I'm wondering if perhaps Buffy - maybe subconsciously not wanting Tara to fail, because of Willow, and her own suspicions about the case - didn't test Tara in enough detail. She passed the basic test, but perhaps that just means she's very advanced - would she have passed Deckard's hundreds-of-questions test?

It was nice to see Willow's hacker background come up too - I confess, I'd put that at the back of my mind what with her and Tara spending so much time together, so it was nice to remember how it'd been established in the early chapters when it turned up again here.

[spells42]

I'm enjoying this fic very much. You write the characters very well, and you've set up the tension nicely with Faith all set to get Tara, even tho' her partner Buffy appears to be helping her. I can't wait to find out.

I'm intrigued by Tara not testing positive as a replicant. What has Tyrell been up to? I'm looking forward to finding out. Update soon? please?

Anne