Title: Family Ties
Author: UniDagger
Email:
sj10113@alltel.netFeedback: Yes, please!
Distribution: Just let me know.
Spoilers: none
Pairing: W/T, B/S, X/A…you know, the usual *G*
Rating:
Disclaimers: Joss and Co. own all.
Summary: When grandma calls, Tara and Willow rush back to another dimension to rescue her, aided by the slayer. Is it just a rescue mission? Or is Destiny calling. And if it’s Destiny calling, how did she get their number? Inquiring minds, want to know.
NOTE: No bunnies, and no strange men with cheese slices appearing for no reason.
(Work in progress)
It had watched them for months. A few times it had managed to interfere and get some locals to do his dirty work, but the vampires and demons here were pathetic. He would have thought, being on a Hell-mouth, it would increase the strength or intelligence of these creatures somewhat, but he’d been sadly disappointed. They all acted afraid of that girl they called ‘Slayer’. “A girl!” He fumed from his watching place. “Not even a witch.”
The word caused him to lick his lips in anticipation. He had almost had her, the blonde, but her red-headed lover had interfered. No matter, he would take them both back and he would be richly rewarded. Perhaps, as a gift, he’d be given the blonde. His thoughts were interrupted as the object of his obsession stepped out of a building followed by her friends.
“I’m telling you it is imminently important that we make a decision now.” Tara stressed as they headed downtown. “But hon, it’s just not a decision I can make right now. I have to think about it.” Willow answered.
“Will, I hate to say it, but Tara is right.” Buffy interrupted.
“What?!” Willow turned her head to look at her friend.
“Well, she made a very valid point. Every time we go out for pizza, it takes you at least thirty minutes to decide what you want, then you change your mind…and quite frankly, I’m starving to death.” Buffy’s stomach chose then to rumble, emphasizing her words.
“Ok, ok.” Willow grumbled. “It’s just they have so many good kinds, why cant they have a buffet?”
“We could have gone to the Buffet two hours ago when we first started discussing pizza.” Anya put in, earning a look from her fiancee. “What? It’s true.”
“How about you do the ‘blind pointy’ method, Will?” Xander suggested, wrapping his arm around Anya and following into step behind the girls.
“Because I never get what I want that way.”
“Then you do know what you want?” Buffy asked hopefully. Willow groaned, “No, but I know what I don’t want!” The gang rolled their collective eyes and resigned themselves to death by late-pizza. “I’m sorry guys,” Willow sighed, “But…it’s pizza. And you just can’t rush some things.” This last was obviously pointed at Tara, who blushed deeply and found the buildings across the street very interesting.
They finally reached the Pizza Parlor and after a few other tummies rumbled accusingly, Willow finally let Tara choose. Over a hot gooey bite of pizza, Xander expressed, “I say Tara gets to always chose for Will. Faster food for us.” Willow kicked him under the table, “Traitor.”
“Ow! Sorry, Willow but it wasn’t me. It was my stomach…..” he froze then, deepening his voice, “Eat now…talk later.” Willow laughed as she reached for another slice, Xander swearing he had lost all bodily control to his evil stomach. The gang continued their meal, mixed with every day chatter and teasing, totally unaware of the burning eyes that glared at them with hatred. With a final look at Tara, he growled lowly and walked away to put his plan in action.
Part 2
(A few evenings later) Buffy walked tiredly into the house and kicked her shoes off, shutting the door behind her, incurring a resounding thud as it bounced of Spike’s head. “Oh! Spike. I’m so sorry.” She whirled and opened the door back, giving him a sheepish smile. Spike gave his sideways look and shook his head. “It’s alright love. I’m not against a little pain now and again.”
Buffy rolled her eyes and walked into the kitchen. Her muscles ached from the nights slaying and she wanted some hot tea. The thought made her miss Giles. She’d never really cared for it until he’d started offering it as a ‘cure all’. Remarkably, it very often did help. The kettle was already plugged in and some banana nut bread was sliced and on a plate next to it. A little note said “Hope the evening went well. –T “ Buffy smiled and helped herself to the munchies, taking the plate into the living room where she sat down and began to nibble. Spike sat down next to her, picked up her feet and began rubbing them. "Ohhh..” She moaned, the bread slipping from her limp fingers back onto the plate. “That is so good.”
Spike grinned and continued the massage, working the kinks out. Buffy finally managed to begin nibbling again, with momentary pauses of ecstasy as muscles and pressure points were relieved.
“Love?” Spike asked after awhile.
“Yes?”
“Have you given thought to what I asked you?” Spike kept his eyes focused on the feet he was rubbing.
“Spike. I don’t think it’s that good an idea. I mean….I hate to admit it but yes, I feel things for you. But I can’t honestly tell you that it’s anything like what I felt…what I still feel for Angel. I mean…” She trailed off, not really knowing what she meant.
“It’s okay. I’ll take what I can get.”
“That’s not fair to you.”
Spike looked up then. “That’s one of the things I love about you, you know.”
“What? That I’m unfair – “
“No. That you are honest.” Spike ran his hand along her leg.
“I don’t know how the other’s will feel about it.” Buffy sighed.
“So ask them.”
“Ask us what?” Dawn asked as she came down the stairs.
“Dawn! It’s 4 a.m. you should be sleeping.” Buffy scolded, pulling her feet away from Spike.
“So should you. Besides, I was thirsty.” She walked towards the kitchen.
“Aw. You weren’t worried about Big Sister where ya, Lil Bit?” Spike teased.
Dawn looked back and shrugged. “Maybe.” She walked to the fridge and got a bottle of water out then came out and sat between her sister and the vampire.
Buffy hugged her. “You don’t have to worry about me you know. I’m the slayer.”
Dawn looked at her. “That didn’t stop you from dying before.”
Wanting to change the subject, Dawn hurried to repeat her question, “So what did you want to ask all of us?”
Buffy looked at Spike then back at Dawn. “It was nothing, Lil Bit.” Spike answered. “I should be getting back to my crypt soon.”
“Spike wait.” Buffy took a deep breath. “Dawn?”
“Yes?” Dawn asked, looking from Buffy to Spike and back to Buffy. “What?”
“Spike and I… I mean, I’ve been kind of….” Buffy cleared her throat. “That is, I mean…”
“You and Spike have been what?” Dawn prompted. “Seeing each other?”
Buffy stared at her. “What? You think none of us have noticed ‘the looks’?” Dawn asked. “I’m not dumb you know.”
“No, I know you aren’t dumb. Ok, so you know and?”
“Are you asking if I’m cool with it?” Dawn asked. Buffy nodded. “Yeah, sis. I am. You’ve kinda been happier since you two got together. And Spike is…well…Spike. I kinda like him.” She grinned at Spike, then groaned when he ruffled her hair.
“So, do you think you’d mind if he….moved in?” Buffy asked.
“I’m ok with it. It’ll be kinda nice having him here. Do we have to cover all the windows? I can do it tomorrow after school.”
“Woah, slow down girl. We haven’t made a decision yet, and Willow and Tara still need to be talked to.” Spike reminded her.
“Why? They won’t care.” Dawn asked.
“Well, I did try to bite Red once.” Spike reminded. Then, “Ok, maybe twice.”
“But you can’t bite anybody anymore.” Dawn frowned. “But even if you could…you wouldn’t, right?”
Spike looked at her. “Honestly, Kitten, I don’t know. I am a vampire. It’s my nature.”
“But Angel doesn’t.” Dawn pressed.
“Dawn.” Buffy started.
“Dawn, Angel is a better man than I am. I’ve done a lot of changing the last year or so, but is it because of this chip? Or is it truly me? I don’t know the answer to that. I won’t lie to you.”
Dawn thought a moment. “Well, I don’t think you would bite us. Whatever. I’m going back to bed, see you in the morning. I hope you do come live with us Spike.” She gave Buffy and Spike a hug then went back upstairs.
“Wow.” Spike breathed.
“What?” Buffy asked.
“She’s still an innocent. Believes good conquers all. Even after everything she has seen.” Spike looked at Buffy. “I’d do anything to keep her that way you know. Safe and all. And I don’t think it’s the chip.”
Buffy smiled and kissed him. “I know. Come back tomorrow. I’ll talk to Willow and Tara in the morning.”
They kissed again which caused more kissing, and it was an hour before Spike actually left for his crypt, having to run the entire way. He reached the door and entered just as the sun was beginning to light the sky. With a smile he shut the door tight, and went down to his bedroom for a good morning’s rest.
TBC
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Part 3
Tara was fixing lunch when Buffy finally awakened and came downstairs. Willow was helping Dawn put up thick dark drapes and making sure no light could get in. Buffy yawned then asked what was going on. “Dawn told us about Spike and said you were worried about what we’d say.” Willow told her. “I mean, as long as he’s not biting ya know.” She grinned.
“Are you sure you two are ok with this?” Buffy asked. “It is your house, Buffy.” Tara said, bringing her a cup of coffee. “But it’s your home too, Tara. I don’t want you to agree to this if you aren’t really ok with it.”
“No, its ok. Besides, who are we to stand in the way of love?” Tara winked at Willow.
“Uh, all this mushy stuff.” Dawn feigned disgust then laughed when Tara threw the hand towel she was holding. “Come on, Dawn. Help me with lunch?” Tara asked heading back for the kitchen. “Sure.” Dawn skipped pass Buffy who went to sit on the couch. “Rough night?” Willow asked, sitting down next to her.
“About the same I guess. A few more than usual maybe.” Buffy sighed.
“Maybe you should get some more sleep. I don’t think you’re getting enough. Sleep that is.” She chuckled.
Buffy laughed. “You’re bad Willow.” “I know. I try not to be bad, but I’m so bad, that my good turns bad. It’s an illness, I’m thinking of seeking counseling.” The two laughed.
“So, what are we going to do on this Sunday afternoon? I feel like going out or something.” Buffy stated. “We could do that. What would you like to do?” Willow asked. Buffy thought for a bit then looked around. “Um, I don’t know. But…where is Chronos*? He makes me nervous when it’s this quiet.”
“Oh, he’s out playing with Logan. He really loves that puppy that Spike got for him.” Willow smiled as she talked about her step-son. “So. You and Spike are really…?”
Buffy took a deep breath. “I don’t know. I get so confused by my feelings sometimes. I still love Angel, I guess I always will. I told Spike that. When I think about Spike, I don’t see it as an ever-after relationship either. I mean, if it couldn’t work with Angel and I…or anyone else for that matter. Maybe I’m jinxed?”
Willow squeezed her hand. “Well, I guess it’s best to take what happiness you can, while it lasts. Doesn’t make it easy. But you know Tara and I are always here for you.” “Thank you, Will. You’re the best friend anyone could hope to find.” Just then Tara announced that lunch was ready and Dawn went out to get Chronos. “I’m starving,” Buffy stated as she headed for the dining room, “What’s on the menu Oh Fabulous Chef?”
“It’s a new dish I found called Chicken-Salad-Ring. I hope it’s good.” Tara replied. “Of course it will be good. You’re the best cook around.” Willow piped up, giving her a quick kiss before taking a seat. Chronos came running in with a little black and white puppy at his heels. As he was about to reach the table, Tara and Willow both held up their hands, pointing upstairs and simultaneously said “Hands!”; the boy froze inches from his plate. “Aww.” Chronos grinned, then raced upstairs to wash his hands. Dawn set a bowl of food down for Logan and took her place at the table.
When Chronos returned they filled their plates and ate. “When is Uncle Spike coming to move in?” Chronos asked as he reached for more vegetables. Buffy looked around then at Dawn. “Guess everyone knows huh.” Dawn shrugged. “I’m sorry. I just thought you’d want to sleep and not worry about anything so I mentioned it.” Buffy shrugged, “It’s ok. Less chatter for me.” “Well?” Chronos asked again. “I don’t know, Chro. Maybe tonight.” Buffy answered him. “Yay. He can see Logan do his new trick. I throw the ball and he chases it and brings it back.”
When they finished their meal they decided to go to the park and called Xander to invite him and Anya. They weren’t home so Willow left a message and the group headed out.
Part 4
That night, as Tara and Willow prepared for bed, Willow asked Tara why she was so quiet. Tara shrugged, “I don’t know. I keep thinking about grandmother. I feel kind of…anxious, but I don’t know why.”
“A premonition maybe?” Willow suggested, as she got into bed. Tara turned out the side lamp and snuggled up to Willow, kissing her lips. “I don’t know. I… Willow, I don’t want to go back there.” Willow held her tightly. “Then we won’t go back.” Willow said simply.
Tara closed her eyes. “But if grams needs me… Vahna said…she said we had a destiny. I think we are supposed to go back.” “Tara, I’ll support you in whatever must be done. If we go back, we go. If you say no, then its no. Just don’t worry yourself ok? We’ll cross that bridge when we get to it, even if it includes screaming and running for our lives.” The red head grinned. Not getting the response she was going for she moved her other arm around Tara, hugging her tightly. “You’re grandma can take care of herself and if she needed help, she would send word to you right?” Tara sighed, “I guess you’re right.” Willow slid her hand over Tara’s cheek, softly. “Of course I’m right.” They kissed, a soft loving and passionate kiss.
*********
The next few days went on as usual except that Spike moved into the house. For the most part he stayed in the basement until sundown, then he and Buffy would go out on patrol. Chronos was caught trying to sneak down to see him the second day and had to sit in the time-out chair. “We told you he needs to sleep, Chro.” Willow told him sternly. Chrono’s lips quivered. “I just wanted to show him my frog.” Willow gave him a quick kiss on the cheek and told him he'd just have to learn to wait till evening.
Willow started working for a computer firm the next day, having beaten out 60 other applicants, hands down. The girls had talked it over and decided that for now, Tara would take care of Chronos and the house while Willow worked. Buffy worked part time down at the Magic Box and everyone agreed having the slayer too tired to slay was rather dangerous and quite possibly could end the world. Willow made Tara promise that if she got too bored, and wanted to resume school or take up teaching, she’d let her know. “Will, I’m happy with this. I love teaching Chronos and when he starts school, I’ll get my license and try for a job there. That way he wont be there alone.”
Everyone settled into routines and life seemed quite normal, if you can call a life filled with vampires, demons, occasional spells gone wrong, and a three year old, normal. Spike had taken to his ‘uncle role, much better than any thought possible. As soon as the sun would go down, he’d take Chronos outside where he had set up large lights and the two worked on their tree-house before he went hunting with Buffy.
After Buffy and Spike left that evening to make their rounds, Willow put Chronos in the bath and listened to all the plans Uncle Spike and he had for the tree house and when she finally got him out of the water and into clothes he was finally running down. Tara and Willow read him a story then kissed him good night, shutting the light off and going down stairs. “Maybe after I’ve worked awhile, we should try to get our own place.” Willow suggested.
“No! You cant!” Dawn came around the corner. “Oh Dawnie. It would probably be along time before..” Willow started. “Don’t you like being here? Is it Spike? Is it me, did I do something wrong?” Tara walked over quickly and put her arms around the teenager. “You know it could never be you, Sweetie. We’re just talking is all. Chronos needs his own room you know and it won’t be that long and you’ll be going off to college so you wouldn’t even miss us?”
“He can have my room. I don’t want you to move out.” Dawn pleaded.
“Hon, you don’t have to give up your room. Where would you sleep?” Tara inquired.
“Well, on the sofa or,” Dawn grinned then mischievously, “Buffy could move down with Spike.”
“Well, we’ll just have to see how things work out. Who knows, maybe we could just buy a house next door. Then we wouldn’t really be like gone.” Willow suggested.
“Maybe.” Dawn sulked.
Dawn finished her homework and Tara looked over it while they watched T.V. before they all headed for bed. As they got ready for bed, Tara sat on the edge of the bed while Willow combed her hair. “Do you really want to move out?” she asked Willow.
“Well no. I feel like its home here. But I just thought maybe Spike and Buffy…if they go through with this relationship, would need their space. And we do need a room for Chro.” Willow stopped brushing. “Sometimes I feel like I’m crowding others.” Tara turned to look at her lover. “Well stop. Because you aren’t crowding anyone. We’ll work things out. Maybe we can just hire Xander and build onto the house. Why don’t we bring it up to Buffy in a few months.”
“Did I ever tell you how cute you are when you’re practical?” Willow smiled. “No. I don’t think so.” Tara teased. “No? Well…” Willow grabbed Tara and pulled her closer planting a big kiss on her lips. Tara chuckled, then stopped when Chronos stirred in his sleep. “Shhh.” Tara froze, looking at the little boy curled up in his race car bed in the corner, then glanced at Willow. “Now I see why you’re talking about rooms.” Willow cocked her head. “Ha, its not just that.”
“I know hon.” Tara got up and placed the brush on the dresser and looked into the mirror, then gasped at what she saw. The mirror had grown foggy and her grandmother’s face stared back at her. “G-grandmother?”
“Tara. I need you. Go to the caves, Lyle will be there waiting and will guide you. It’s time to face your destiny.” The cloudy image spoke to her.
“B-b-but…now?”
Amilia looked off to the side, then back at Tara. “Dear, I know its frightening. But I wouldn’t ask this if there was any other way. Please, will you come give us aid?”
“Of course Grandmother. I’m coming.”
“Thank you.” The woman said, then faded away, the mirror became just a mirror again.
Tara turned to look at Willow, worry and fear in her eyes. Willow stood up and embraced Tara. “It’s ok. Let’s get ready to go. I’ll put Chronos in with Dawn and let her know where we are going.” Within an hour, the girls were walking down the street, heading for the caves. As the girls passed the cemetery, they heard Buffy call out their names; they waited for her to catch up. Once Buffy and Spike arrived, the girls filled them in on their mission. “I’m coming with you.” Buffy said. “But you’re needed here.” Willow argued. “No, when my friends are in trouble, that’s where I am needed. Spike, will you look after Dawn and Chro?”
“Of course, Love.”
Buffy gave Spike a kiss and thanked him, then the three girls continued on towards the caves. Lyle (a long time friend of Amilia’s, and fellow rebell whom they had met almost a year ago) was waiting for them. Without a word, he motioned them to follow. They walked a couple miles into the surrounding woods before Lyle stopped and started an incantation to open a portal. He looked back at them, then still saying nothing, walked through. Buffy followed next, then Tara and Willow. It didn’t take long for them to appear on the other side. Tense and unsure what to expect, they looked for Lyle but didn’t see him anywhere.
“I don’t like this.” Buffy muttered.
“Why’d he leave us?” Tara whispered. “I think we shouldn’t stay here….maybe head east.” Willow suggested. Buffy looked in the direction Willow suggested then agreed. “Lead the way, Captain.” Buffy said bringing up the rear, watching to make sure they weren’t being followed.
They traveled some time without a word, then Willow stopped and motioned the others to hide. They heard a couple voices talking quietly but they came no nearer, and were soon lost into the night. Slowly the threesome ventured out again. They soon reached an area that Tara and Willow recognized as one of the camps, but no one was around. “Now what?” Willow asked in a whisper.
“Can you do a location spell?” Buffy asked. “They can feel it, and if they know we are coming they’ll be waiting for us to do just that.” Tara answered. “So they could like track us. Dang.” Willow yawned and rubbed her eyes. “Should we head for the town and see if we can learn anything?” Tara shrugged. “I wish Vahna would pop in.”
Buffy watched her two friends do a synchronized yawning routine, then suggested they bed down for the night. “I’m used to being up nights so I’ll take watch. You two need to sleep.” After trying to argue but having their words cut off by yawns they finally assented and curled up together under a tree. Buffy stepped away into the moon cast shadows to watched over them. Tara stirred for awhile before settling down. “Worried about her grandmother, no doubt.” The Slayer thought to herself.
Buffy found the stillness of the night allowed her mind to wander places she’d rather not go. But unable to stop herself, she began thinking about Spike. She’d kept telling herself it was just sex, but that didn’t ring true anymore. She still didn’t know what it was she was feeling but it was nice to have him around. It was true that he had changed a lot the past year and it couldn’t all be contributed to that blessed chip. “Maybe its like being given a soul.” She mused. Buffy watched an owl float overhead as it disappeared on the hunt. She should be hunting right now.
Tara rolled over in her sleep, whimpering. Before Buffy could move towards her, Willow’s arm had snaked around her lover and pulled her close, neither waking, but Tara quieted down and grew peaceful again. The Slayer smiled. Even in sleep the two were there for one another. She wondered if she’d ever find someone like that. She sighed and leaned back against the tree. Looking again at Willow and Tara’s slumbering forms, she was glad she had come. They had confided in her some of what had happened the last time they’d been to this realm and she was amazed by their courage to venture back. “Will and Tara are braver than we give them credit for,” she mused, “including themselves.”
True words, indeed, Friend.
Buffy said straight up, her back stiff and every muscle ready to spring into battle. She peered through the dark but could see nothing, and had heard no one approach. She took a deep breath and wondered if she had finally gone insane. A soft chuckle did nothing to reassure her otherwise.
“Who - ?” She started to speak but was hushed.
You do not need to speak outwardly. No need to wake your friends just yet. You will only be safe here a few more hours.
Buffy swallowed hard and thought “Who are you?”
I am Vahna. Tara spoke of me to you.
Buffy swallowed again. In truth, when Tara had mentioned speaking to a Goddess, she’d just assumed it was an hallucination or something, or some kind of title. Again, the soft laughter echoed in her mind. “Quite happy to amuse you, Vahna. It is why I’m here after all. “
Tara’s grandmother has been taken and held on trial. She will not be re-enslaved as they see her as a threat.
“That’s good news, right? No slavery.”
No. Instead she will be executed.
“Oh. Not good.” Buffy sighed. “Uh, shouldn’t you be talking to Tara? I mean, it’s a pleasure to meet..talk.. you and all..uh…your uh, goddess…ness…” Unsure of what to say, she stopped and looked at Tara wishing she was awake. What do you say to a god. “Or rather a god that wasn’t trying to kill you.” She corrected herself as thoughts of Glory rose unbidden.
Again, Vahna chuckled before continuing. Their powers will be much used in the next few days. When you awaken them in an hour, take them North to the Lake and follow it’s easterly coarse. When you reach the town of Blithen, find a man named Corwitthen. He will help you join up with the rebels.
Buffy nodded. “Then what?” When no answer came, Buffy frowned and asked again. Distantly Vahnas voice said, You must find the way. Buffy groaned. “Why does everyone always get so cryptic?” She waited about thirty minutes before rousing her friends and telling them about her conversation. “Then North it is.” Willow stated as she stretched out the kinks from sleeping on the ground.
Though they only stopped to rest once, it was well past noon before they reached the lake and began their way east again. Tara hadn’t spoken much, wrapped up with her worries for her grandmother. An hour to sundown, tired and hungry, they reached the edge of the forest and found that it opened into a large meadow.
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Part 5
Dawn woke early as a small foot kicked her in the ribs. “Umph!” She opened an eye blearily and looked at the small boy next to her then recalled Willow coming in the night before. “Built in baby-sitter.” She sighed. Chronos moaned again in his sleep and flipped over, almost hitting the teenager in the head. Dawn carefully extracted herself from the dangerous child and stood up, looking at the clock. It was almost seven, she decided to get her shower now, while Chro was sleeping. Maybe Spike could watch him while she went to school. She didn’t like the idea of dropping him off at the Happy Clown Child Center, there was just something about that huge painted clown that wigged her out.
She took her school clothes into the bathroom to get ready for the day ahead. She didn’t see the figure in the closet as it hid deeper to keep from being caught, nor did she hear the three year old as he whimpered in his sleep.
****
Spike opened his eyes slowly, he’d only been asleep maybe an hour when he sensed something in the house. His keen eyes cut through the dark but found nothing out of the usual. He crept up the stairs and into the kitchen, all the blinds were down so he continued up the stairs. He heard Dawn humming in the shower and smiled. Quietly he searched each room, the smell getting stronger when he entered the teen’s room where his ‘nephew’ was still sleeping. The smell was dissipating, but it had been in the closet, he was sure of that.
Spike growled. He didn’t like things creeping about in the closets of his family. He swallowed hard as that last word rolled about in his mind. Family? Is that what he thought of them. “Spike, you’ve gone soft.” He scolded himself half-heartedly. “Unca-Spike?” a sleepy little voice asked. With a smile, the vampire walked over to the boy. “Hey sleepy head. Aren’t you missing some cartoons or something?”
Chronos smiled and reached up for a hug, which the once-evil, creature of the night gracefully accepted, returning one of his own. Chronos clung to him, as Spike stood up, the child hnging from his neck giggling. Spike grinned and tickled him, causing him to lose his grip, but the vampires arms held him before he could fall. “Let’s see whats on the telly, then.” Spike suggested and carried him downstairs to let Dawn finish her morning rituals. “Can we work on the tree house?”
Spike raised an eyebrow, “Well sure, Buddy. ‘Cept then you’ll have to call me Uncle Dusty.” The boy giggled then shook his head. “Nooo. I mean tonight. Mama-Willow and Mama-Tara had to go and Buffy too. So, you don’t have to patrol right?”
“How do you know Buffy went too?” Spike asked, a little surprised.
The little boy looked at him as if he were joking then shrugged. “Because I do. She was…” he searched for the right words, frowning, “Um…gone…when Willow and Tara were.”
“You can feel when they leave this realm?” The boy nodded, then looked back into Spike’s eyes. “Is that bad?” “Shoot no, that’s great. You know what that means?” Spike flipped on the tv and continued after getting a head shake, “That means you’ll know when they return…and we wont get in trouble for not having the house cleaned up or getting caught eating lots of ice cream when they decide to sneak up on us.”
Setting the grinning boy down on the couch, he went in to get some food for his nephew, something simple. “Ah, Pop Tarts. Simple enough.” He took the package into the living room and opened it, handing them over. “I’m going to pop down for a rest, Tiny. You come wake me when the Lil’Bit is ready to go for school, ok?”
Chronos giggled at the antics of Bugs Bunny then nodded. “Ok, Uncle Spike.” Spike turned to return to his room then stopped as the little boy called his name, “Uncle Spike?”
“Yes?”
“Th-they’re gonna be ok…right?” his voice was worried and sounded on the verge of tears.
“Hey, don’t sweat it Little Guy. They’ll be just fine.” He smiled what he hoped was a reassuring smile…or as reassuring as a vampire can give. “Who’s a match for two wiccans and a slayer anyway!” The boy seemed to be mollified so he continued downstairs, his own doubts causing him to frown.
Part 6
Willow sat resting against a tree, her head back and eyes closed. A beam of light filtered through the canopy of leaves and branches to dance softly over her red hair. Tara stared at her soulmate, loving the way the sun shone on her face. She could handle anything as long as she had Willow at her side. Willow lifted her eyelids slowly and peered at Tara with a soft smile. “You’re staring.” She accused Tara. Tara blushed and looked away.
The redhead stretched then made her way to sit next to Tara, and ran her fingers through her golden locks. “I don’t mind. I can feel your love when you look at me like that.” Tara turned to look into Willows eyes and smiled. “I do love you.” Willow grinned, “And I love you. Too bad we’re on a mission.” She wiggled her eyebrows suggestively. Buffy coughed from her position a few trees away.
Shaking her head and chuckling, Buffy told the girls, “I’ll give you two..uh…a moment. Going to look for water…or something.” Willow and Tara giggled. After Buffy disappeared, Willow bent her neck to place a soft kiss on the lips she so cherished. Tara kissed her back, getting lost in the moment. As Willow at last pulled back so they could breathe, she looked around. “Wow.”
“What?” Tara asked as she snuggled into Willow’s arms.
“We’re actually alone. We haven’t been alone in so long. No little boy running in at odd times.” She chuckled.
“I miss him though. I didn’t even think…Will! What if something happens - ?” Tara sat bolt upright, worried as terrible thoughts assaulted her mind.
“Shhhh. Baby, nothing is going to happen. We’re the Wicca Girls. AND! We have the slayer. We’ll be fine and home before Chro knows we’re gone.” Willow assured her lover.
Tara settled back into her Willow’s arms with a sigh, only half consoled. Absentmindedly, Tara began caressing Willow’s arm with soft strokes. As she heard the other witch’s breathing quicken, she paused then grinned wickedly. She moved her hand and slowly began to inch it under Willows shirt.
Willow jumped to her feet, almost knocking Tara over. “Wha- ? Hey?” Tara started but was shushed. Willow peered into the woods. After a minute, she whispered, “Something..” Just then a black shadow zipped between the trees and Tara saw it too. She jumped up to stand ready at Willow’s side.
Suddenly something struck Willow from behind, knocking her down. Tara screamed but before she could utter a spell, it had grabbed her by the throat, its red eyes bearing into her. She kicked it in the gut, earning only a snarl of rage, and a tightening on her throat. Willow stood, focused on the creature and throw a bolt of energy from her hands. It hit him in the back causing him to drop Tara. Barely missing a beat, it lunged at Willow, who sent another bolt crashing into him, knocking him to the ground.
The dark creature howled and rolled away, right into Tara who had just stood up and was summoning her own spell. The creature whirled on her and a shadowed arm reached out and slashed the blonde across the shoulder and arm. Tara cried out in pain and fell away from him as he raised his hand. Sensing a third bolt being sent his way, he ducked and disappeared into the woods as Buffy came running up. Willow rushed to Tara’s side. “Oh Baby!” she gasped as she saw the cut that went almost to her elbow.
“I-it’s ok. It’s n-not that bad.” Tara answered, trembling as she held her arm tightly, trying to hold back the tears. Buffy ran after the creature to see if it was still lurking about, or for signs of where it had gone but saw nothing. “Damn it!” She swore, angry at herself for having gone off. What was I thinking?! She returned to the girls to find Willow bandaging Tara’s arm. “Is it -?”
Willow looked up and smiled weakly. “It’s not too bad. I did a brief heal spell…but we really have to leave now. I’m sure someone will have sensed our magic.” Buffy nodded and helped her get Tara on her feet. Buffy picked up one of the bags and slung it over her shoulder, “I’m sorry I left…”
“Buffy, it wasn’t your fault. It..just came out of nowhere. Something…about it…” Willow grew quiet as she thought. Tara placed her hand on Willow’s arm and smiled. “We need to go.” “Right, “ Willow acknowledged. The trio gathered their belongings and quickly began moving across the meadow. Their hope was that they could be across and into shelter before anyone got there.
****
It snarled from its hiding place, eyes burning hotter than ever. It should have waited. But it wanted them so badly. It raised it’s hand and licked the trace of blood from the blonde witch off of its claws. A fanged smile spread slowly across its shadowy face. Soon, it would have them soon. It didn’t like that the Slayer had come, but no matter. It would find a way to separate them, then the witches would be his.
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Part Seven
They made it across the meadow and back into the woods without being seen or bothered in any way. After a brief discussion they all agreed to just take short breaks, and to continue on through the night. No one liked the idea of falling asleep and waking up with that thing on top of them. They were blessed with a full moon that made travel easier and before dawn, they arrived at the outskirts of Blithen.
Buffy stared at the sign with it’s strange marks. “We need to find out if this is Blithen.” She whispered to her friends. “It is Blithen.” Willow frowned at her. “You’ve been here before?” The slayer asked.
“No, we never made it out this far. It says so on the….oh!” Tara stopped, and grinned. “The spell.”
“The spell?” Buffy asked. Willow explained that the last time they had been in the realm, Amilia had cast a spell on them so that they could understand the local speech and written words, as well as to be understood. “I guess it still works.”
“That’s convenient. Alright, so we find Corwitthen. I suppose we should stick to the shadows and alleys. They do have alleys right?” Buffy spoke softly.
Willow shrugged, then whispered back, “Kind of. At least the other towns we were in did. Maybe you and Tara should stay put, and I’ll go in and ask around.”
“NO!” Buffy and Tara both whispered vehemently.
“I’m not letting you go in there alone.” Buffy argued.
“Will…please….we should stick together.” Tara told her.
“Look. If anyone is looking for us, they’ll see three women and say “hey, I bet that’s them.” But one person won’t call much attention. Right?” She looked from her friend, to her lover.
“Fine. Right. But it should be me going in there.” Buffy told her.
“You don’t speak the language Buffy. I don’t know the spell that Amilia did, or I would do it and you could go. “
“Then I c-could…” Tara started to volunteer but was stopped by a kiss.
“No way. You’re walking-wounded. And…you have the whole family resemblance thing going on. Best not to risk it. You rest, Buffy will make sure nothing happens to you.” She gave Tara another kiss then added, “Maybe you two should go to the first alley and wait. I’ll help you carry our stuff there, then I’ll go mingle with the locals. I’ll see if I can snag some munchies too. Okay?”
Reluctantly, the other two agreed and followed her to the first alleyway, where they parted company. Willow swallowed hard, and made her way down the street, hoping she looked like she belonged there. Though the sun was just cresting in the sky, there were already a lot of …people… Willow paused, thinking about the word. Many of the ‘people’ resembled humans, while others were more scaly-scarey demon looking things. Ok, people. Merchants were setting up their wares and though many passed by or glanced at her, most chose to ignore her. So far so good, she thought.
The red headed woman strolled down the road trying to listen to conversations, hoping to catch a name, or see someone that looked ok to talk to. As she meandered towards the docks, she frowned and glanced behind her. She had the sense that someone was following…or watching her…but she saw nothing.
*****
Buffy shifted a few of the huge wooden crates to cover them better then stepped into their hiding place, to sit beside Tara. Tara stared out of the opening at the lightening street, her hands worrying her pants leg. Buffy reached over and placed her own hand over Tara’s. “She’s going to be ok.”
Tara squeezed her hand back and sighed. She couldn’t seem to push the fear away. “Here, lay your head against me and try to rest. We’ll probably be moving fast when Willow returns.” Buffy suggested. Tara smiled and accepted the offer. After a few minutes she opened her eyes again.
“Buffy?” she whispered.
“Yes?”
“Promise me you’ll protect her if something happens. “
“Hey, nothing is going to happen. We’ll..”
Tara interrupted her, lifting her head to stare into the Slayer’s eyes. “Promise me. I can survive anything if I know she’s ok. And Chro.”
“Tara. I promise, I wont let anything happen to either of them. Or you either. Nobody messes with my family without getting a really good Slayer butt-kicking.” Tara continued looking at her a moment, then gave a small smile before laying her head back down.
Buffy closed her eyes and leaned her head back. “I won’t let anyone hurt either of you.” She thought to herself.
Part Eight
Willow reached the docks and began looking around. Some of the ships were being loaded with crates while others were having huge nets hoisted aboard before shoving off. A kindly looking man stood outside a building, smoking. Deciding to talk to him, Willow made her way down the platform only to be shoved out of the way by three young boys who raced laughing towards the piers. Willow stopped just down from where her ‘target’ stood, “Excuse me, Sir?”
Before she could continue, a cry reached her ears. As she turned to look, one of the boys was pin-wheeling his arms as he fell into the water. “Help!” One of the others hollered, peering over the pier worriedly. Without thinking, Willow raced to the side and dove in, power stroking it deeper into the water. The water was kind of murky but she could just see a shadowy image. Her lungs felt like they would burst, but she thrust herself further, reaching a hand out.
At the last second, her fingers touched the boys and she grabbed, shooting back to the surface. As the air hit her face, she gasped in oxygen, pulling the boy up too. Hands reached down and grabbed the child, then returned to help her out. The boy was choking and sputtering, spitting the water out and trying to breath and cry at the same time. Willow sat with her feet hanging over the pier, catching her own breath.
When she looked up, she noticed that the man she had started to speak to was the one who had helped them out. Another man who had come over was chastising the boys, “How many times have I told you boys not be playing down here?” He demanded. “W-were sorry.” The contrite boys apologized, then swore not to do it again. “Go on, git. But don’t be thinking I wont be having words with your parents.” The wide-eyed boys gulped then raced off.
The man looked at Willow then smiled. “That should hold them. A few weeks at least.” Willow smiled back. “That was a brave thing you did.” The man with the pipe said. Willow shrugged, and stood up, her clothes dripping.
“Not many….humans know how to swim around here.” He added carefully.
Willow froze, her breath catching. “H-humans?” The older man grinned. The younger man chuckled and hit him on the shoulder. “Ignore him. Lots of folks can swim. Im Corwittehn, this Alvrin, my uncle.”
Corwitthen offered his hand, and Willow accepted the hand shake, “Cor- well, that means.. I mean we are…that is, You’re the one we We found you.” Corwitthen chuckled, “Are you always this articulate?” Willow blushed. “Sorry.”
“Now, where is Amilia’s grand daughter? I was told there’d be two of you.”
“Oh, well. See. We thought maybe three of us walking around might cause undue attention. And there’s three of us, by the way…which I realize I just said that.” Willow took a deep breath to stop rambling. “I’ll go get them. Shall we come back here?”
“Yes, to that third ship down. See it? It has a falcon painted on the prow.” Alvrin pointed. Willow nodded, “Alright, I’ll be right back.”
“Hold up.” Corwitthen said, then walked into the shack, reappearing with a small sack. “Theres a waterbag and some fruit and bread. You and your friends can eat it on the way back. I’m sure you haven’t had much time to eat since…you arrived.”
“Thank you very much. We’ll hurry.” Willow turned, then stopped. Looking back she said quietly, “You do realize the danger?” The look they gave her told her yes, so she added, “Ok. It’s just…yesterday… I’ll hurry. We need to get away from here quickly.” The two men nodded as the witch walked away they looked at each other, then quickly began loading the rest of their gear on their boat.
Willow made her way back through town, this time keeping to the back street, not wanting to call attention to her wet clothes. A few women noticed her as they swept out their homes, or hung out laundry, but no one spoke. She finally reached the alley and made her way to the stack of crates. She went around to the opening and called their names. “Tara…Buffy.”
She got no response, so she stepped in. Their bags were gone, the girls were gone. Willow gasped, backing out. She suddenly felt like she couldn’t breathe as terrible thoughts strove to weaken her. She turned around and came face to face with red eyes.
TBC...
Part Nine
Buffy and Tara made their way to the pier. Both girls had suddenly awakened, feeling an extremely evil force near them. Buffy looked around, then helped Tara up. "I don’t think we can wait."
"But..Willow?"
"She’ll find us. Or we’ll catch up to her. Hurry."
The two girls walked briskly out of the alley and headed through the town. A few merchants called out greetings, offering their wares but the girls just smiled and moved on. "I don’t see her." Tara said, as she moved to miss a woman carrying a large basket of fish.
Buffy lunged and grabbed Tara’s wrist, pulling her towards her as the crowd of people threatened to separate them. "Stay close." Buffy warned, waited for a quick nod, then scanned for an opening, plowing through. "Must be a big sale." Tara piped up, as she was led by the blonde warrior. She grinned as she thought about what a good football player Buffy would make, dodging left and right.
The girls finally made it past the wave of shoppers, relieved that the nearer they got to the docks, the fewer people there were. As they walked down the pier looking at the few remaining boats, a man suddenly stepped in front of them. Buffy stopped abruptly, causing Tara to run into her.
"You must be Tara, but where is Willow? I was to understand we needed to leave quickly." He asked, frowning. Buffy pushed Tara further behind her, unable to understand the mans speech, but she had heard her friends names and was immediately suspicious. The frown didn’t make her feel all warm and fuzzy either.
"Wait Buffy! Sir…who are you?" Tara asked as she placed a staying hand on her friends shoulder.
"Corwitthen." He answered looking confused.
"We’ve found you then. But if you saw Willow… Where is she?" Tara asked, the sinking feeling in her stomach returning full force.
"She went to get you two. I sent her with a bag of fruit for you to eat on your way even. How did you know to come here if she didn’t return?"
Tara quickly related the mans words to Buffy then looked at Corwitthen, "She didn’t show up and w-we got feeling…I mean, we both felt something….evil. So we came through town hoping to see her but…" Buffy squeezed her hand. "I’ll go back and look, you stay here."
As Buffy turned to leave, Corwitthen hollered at her to stop. "Buffy, wait." Tara repeated then explained to the man, "She can’t understand you."
"You should both get on the boat. I’ll go and see if I can find her. It will be less suspicious that way and best if you two are out of sight."
Tara repeated his suggestion to Buffy who frowned, "I’m not going to just sit around if she’s in trouble."
Sensing what the Slayer was probably saying, Corwitthen added, "Please. She is probably all right, but if we don’t act soon then none of us will be. If she is in trouble, I’ll return immediately." Grumbling, Buffy finally consented and followed Tara aboard, where they met Alvrin and were taken below and given some bread and dried meat.
Tara sat on the bench staring at her food, tears threatening to break through. "I’m sorry, Tara." Buffy sighed, rubbing her eyes. "It’s not your fault, Buffy. Oh, Buffy..what if…" Buffy stood up and went around the table that held their untouched meal, and put her arms around the witch. "We’ll find her." The slayer soothed. "We’ll find her."
******
Corwitthen made his way through town, nodding to friends and responding to greetings. A lump formed in his throat as he made it to the last alley, and still had not seen the red headed young woman. Who knew they were here? He thought to himself. As he rounded the corner he saw the sack he had handed the girl, and a scrap from her dress. He bent slowly and picked it up, it was soaked with blood. Dropping it quickly, he looked around and made his way back to the boat. They were leaving, and leaving now. He swore under his breath. He should have known. He’d sensed an evil presencelast night. "Damn it I should have known."
Uncaring of the questioning looks his outburst had acquired, he made it to the pier and threw off the lines, jumping aboard. "Uncle!" When his uncle appeared he saw the look in Corwitthen’s eyes and immediately got to work.
Part Ten
"No! We are not going to leave her here." Tara was screaming, her fists clenched angrily.
"She is not here."
"You don’t know that. You can’t know that." Tears streaked her face, as Buffy stood by her, only understanding her side of the conversation. "Tara?" She asked, looking from the man to her friend.
"I saw the signs. I know who has her, and there is no way he’d stay around. Once we get Amilia she can help us save your friend. With out her, we wouldn’t stand a chance. I’m ….sorry. We are pressed for time, Tara. We have two days to reach Vankt and only that night to rush in and grab her or shes….." The sailor let the words trail off unfinished.
Tara sank onto the bench, her legs unable to hold her any longer. Everything was going down hill so fast. She was losing them…she was going to lose both of them and all she could do was….nothing. Tara covered her face with her hands, trying not to cry. Crying wouldn’t help any of them.
"Tara." Buffy hugged her, looking up and glaring at Corwitthen. "When I figure out what you’ve said to her I’m going to rip you a new one." Corwitthen looked at her, then shrugged. He turned and went back outside, breathing deeply the sea air. He hated that he had upset them, but they just didn’t understand what they were up against. With a sigh, he went to relieve his uncle. Alvrin was always better at explaining things, maybe he could help.
Relaying what had transpired, Corwitthen expressed his own concerns. "We’re running out of time, Uncle. Amilia…." Alvrin placed a well aged, but still strong hand on his nephews shoulder. "The Goddess is with us, Cor. Things happen for a reason and quite often a reason that we cant comprehend. I’ll talk to the girls. Maybe I can explain to them what creature we are facing."
*****
Willow moaned as she tried to claw her way to consciousness. Her side was burning where the creature had slashed her. Hands. She remembered hands shoving her roughly, pulling her up. She had been forced to drink something. When she had tried to spit it out, they had slapped her. Too weak and frightened, she had stopped resisting and half choked, half swallowed the nauseating thick liquid. It’s taste still seemed to lurk in her mouth.
She tried to look around, but all she saw was darkness and it was hard to keep her heavy eyelids open. She shivered in the dampness as a tear wandered down her cheek. "Tara." She whispered. She tried to sit up but her arms wouldn’t move. She took several slow breaths to try clear her mind. Something was on them…her wrists. "Tied up. Damn." She thought.
Suddenly he was there, standing over her. Those red eyes burning her with it’s hatred. "P-please.." Her plea was caught in her thoat as the creature howled and dragged her up, heedless of the injury that caused her to cry out. "You…will…die…" It hissed into her face, then threw her against the her to cry out again, pain shooting through her. As she sank to the floor, darkness closed in on her and she accepted it with relief.
*******
Alvrins voice was kind and calm, he spoke slowly as he related the tale of Shaledan, a creature who had once been a man. Consumed by his evil, he had eventually transformed, shedding everything that resembled anything human. Even demons feared this dark creature, whom many described as a shadow given corporeal form. Though stories varied from person to person, all accounts, however had two things in common: razor sharp claws, and blazing red eyes that seemed to bore its hatred right through you.
"The Shaledan has existed for thousands of years. He loves nothing and serves only one master. It’s a toss up as to which is worse to face. We have our fair share of evil beings here, but they all quell before the Shaledan and his master, Drawk."
Alvrin paused to light his pipe, allowing Tara to translate to Buffy. "So who is the Drawk..what is he?" Buffy asked. Tara started to ask, but Alvrin raised his hand. "I heard the name..I can guess. What is he, where’d come from…can be destroyed?" Tara smiled, "Something like that."
"Well, there are many who believe he was a god who was beaten down by the others. Others think maybe it was someone who stole a gods power. Thing is, no one really knows. Priests make their claims and then have you say your prayers for protection…but really, no one knows. One thing is for certain, he is evil incarnate. Many warriors and innocents alike have lost their lives…and souls…to those two."
"So…." Tara’s lips began to tremble, she swallowed hard. "A-are you s-saying ….th-there’s no…hope?"
The old man reached a hand out and touched Tara’s. "No child. There is always hope. The two evils together…that’s one thing. But if it’s just Shaledon alone…Amilia has fought him before. Barely survived..but survive she did. Tara…there is always hope. Never give up on it."
Tara gave a half hearted smile and nodded. Thinking of her beloved, she tried to send thoughts of warmth and love to her. Where ever she was. That night as she lay in her bunk staring into the darkness, she prayed that Willow would be okay, and that they’d be reunited. "Vahna, if you can hear me. Please. Look after my Willow."
******
Miles away, a small form lay trembling in the corner of a cell. It made no sound other than a low moan and whispered words that fell from feverish lips. Red hair clung in damp ringlets to a burning forehead. Sometimes, its green eyes would open and stare unseeing, a whimper, then the eyes would close again. Over the next few hours, the fever worsened, and her breathing grew labored.
Shaledon howled at the moonlight. He was quite proud of himself. He had gotten one of them. He would get the other and kill the slayer. He had time. Dwark would be pleased, he would have to let him keep one. Shaledon snarled. He would keep one. He was stronger now. Time was getting nearer…soon he would be the master. With that pleasing thought, he began running, flitting from shadow to shadow.
******
An old woman in a tattered dress stood up weakly from a corner of the cell, and made her way to the young prisoner. She paused to procure a chipped cup and filled it with water. Kneeling down with a groan, she pulled the young girl closer. The red head whimpered as the woman held the cup to her lips. "Drink, Child." She managed to get a small amount down the girls throat, then dabbed some of the tepid liquid on Willow’s forehead, using the end of her sleeve. The old woman held her, rocking when the whimpering and crying out worsened. Her hand stroked the fiery locks with a soothing hand, a tear falling from the old woman’s eyes. "Shhh. Shhhh. There, now child. Rest."
tbc.....
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