New Fic: Hand Of Fate

[LostWithoutTara]

Title – Hand Of Fate

Author name – LostWithoutTara

Rating - PG-13, rising to NC-17 for a couple of parts.

Disclaimer – This fic contains lots of angst, violence and some smut, but this first part only has a little angst. Takes place in the summer after Buffy’s death in S5 but before Season Six. There's also the appearance of a character featured in a S7 Buffy episode. All characters are property of Joss Whedon and Mutant Enemy.

Feedback- I would love some. Always of the good.

Summary- W/T are attempting to rebuild after Buffy’s death. Tara has moved into the Summers’ house to care for Dawn. The Slayer is dead, but something nasty is coming…



Hand Of Fate - Part One



‘Aftermath’



Tara sat there, biting her lip hard to stop any tears from falling down her face. She stared the girl sat next to her, staring absent-mindedly at the TV. Dawnie had had such a tough time. In the space of a year, she’d learnt she was originally a ball of universe destroying energy, been hunted by a God, lost her Mom and now her sister. She stood up.



“Dawnie, can I… get you anything?”

Dawn smiled back at her. “No thanks.” She turned back, immersed in whatever soap opera was playing on TV. Tara quickly walked into the kitchen, pulling off some kitchen towel and dabbing her eyes with it. Goddess, life was hard. Dawn was handling everything so much better than her, and she was supposed to be the grown-up. She looked around the Summers’ kitchen. She and Willow had moved out of their dorm room and into the house to look after Dawn and to try to decide what to do about Buffy. Buffy-bot was functioning okay except for the icky sex talk around Spike, but they had to do something else. Keeping the hellmouth monitored was hard enough when they had the Slayer, let alone without her.



Realising she’d been in the kitchen for a while, Tara filled a bowl with popcorn and headed back to the lounge, only to see Miss Kitty curled up fast asleep where she’d been sat. Dawn giggled. Tara handed her the popcorn and swept Miss Kitty up, holding her and playfully stroking her tummy. Tara sat down, mentally noting that all the women in her life seemed to enjoy tummy-stroking. Miss Kitty purred and settled down on her lap.



“So, what did I miss?” asked Tara.

“Well, Candy and Ken were having a big argument and they ended up, you know, doing something in this abandoned building, which, like, fell down, and Lexia got really high and nearly killed Stacey in a car accident. It was so sad when she was crying. But Candy didn’t look very impressed.”

“Oh,” said Tara, disdained. She couldn’t believe that networks were showing this rubbish. The world was full enough of misery without TV makers adding to it. Oh yeah, and would it kill them to have a lesbian who wasn’t dead or evil? She glanced at her watch. Willow would be home soon. She was at the college studying for her sociology assignment. Willow had been offered either an essay or a research project for the course credit. Typical, loveable Willow had chosen both in order to get extra credit. Tara smiled. That was her girl.



Willow sighed and stared at the book in front of her. Of course, the essay was done hours ago. She was looking in one of her spellbooks. Between them, she and Tara had enough firepower to fend off most vamps and demons, but they needed more. Ever since she’d taken on Glory, Willow had felt like the magic was just slipping away. Running so powerful for so long had left her drained and exhausted. But they had to press on – until they could bring Buffy back. Willow thought of Tara and smiled. Her soft hair cascading over her body, pouty lips begging to be kissed, earlobes crying out to be nibbled, supple skin… Willow realised that she was on the verge of drooling and stopped. Ever since she’d met Tara she’d gotten a better understanding of why guys like Xander were so obsessed with the female form. Because it looked… devourable, she thought, if that was actually a word. Willow decided she’d go home soon, before her daydreams of Tara completely took over her concentration.



The ground watched. It waited, a predator hunting for its next victim. Soon, it decided. Soon. The trees trembled as the soil quaked, the flowers wilted.



Soon.

Edited by: LostWithoutTara at: 5/3/03 9:58:08 am

[urnofosiris]

Welcome to the board LostwithoutTara.

I just read your intro post and now this. What a lovely way to introduce yourself. This part is a bit short to go into too much detail, but it already feels like a good story to me. I like the timeline you have chosen as a setting for your story and the way you are describing Willow's and Tara's thoughts and feelings. They're true to form. I am looking forward to the continuation.

-------------------------


Coffee, Food, Kisses and Gay Love........Get it while you are hot

Edited by: DrG at: 3/29/03 11:22:22 am

[willntlover]

Hi!!



Wow! Very cool, i hope you post more soon. Plus, Ms. Kitty



-Will

"I think finding her soulmate would have made Tara a more confident and secure person" -Amber Benson

[Stroke of Luck]

Nice start



Okay lots of questions but I wait and read the next chapter, but I hope Buffy will come back. I don´t like it when everybody suffers



And Miss Kitty great I think this is one of the few Fic´s where Miss Kitty is still there



Cu

SoL/Natti



Man sieht nur mit dem Herzen gut, das Wesentliche ist für die Augen unsichtbar - Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

[LostWithoutTara]

Yay! Lots of nice replies for me! Thank you everyone!

[LostWithoutTara]

PLEASE NOTE - THIS PART RATED NC-17.



Tara and Willow sat in their nightwear on their bed that evening. The alarm clock read 12.00am. Dawn had gone to bed early, with none of her usual protests to stay up and watch Sex And The City reruns. Tara glanced at Willow, who nodded. Tara waved her hand and a blue energy bolt emerged, filling the room in a brief flash of light. It faded. Soundproofing spells were a must, given the bad proofing of the Summer’s walls. It would enable them to talk without anyone else hearing, although it also came in handy so people couldn’t hear other things…



“What did you find?” asked Tara. Willow paused, then stared at her.

“Two main spells, I mean, you know, ones that always work – no zombification.”

Tara noted the hesitation in her voice. In their heart of hearts, they knew what they were going to do was wrong – resurrection was the most controversial aspect of magic. It was wrong, but surely it was acceptable in order to keeping the world spinning another day? Giles had informed them that there would be no replacement Slayer for Buffy – there were two, somehow, and the other one – Faith, was that her name? – was in jail for murder. Sunnydale was wide open and vulnerable. They couldn’t just leave it like that.



Willow continued. “The problem is, the first one requires an Urn Of Osiris.”

Tara nodded in understanding. Osiris, the Egyptian god controlled the flow of life, or so the ancient Egyptians believed. But the magics required to supplicate Osiris were old and dangerous – as far as Tara knew, no-one had survived the tests required to prove oneself worthy. And that was if they got hold of an Urn – surely they were all lost?

“What was the other option?”

Willow grimaced. “It requires fresh human hearts.”

Tara’s face fell. “Oh.”

“I know. So Urn of Osiris it is.” Willow studied the unhappiness on Tara’s face. “I know that this is horrible, but we have to. Buffy died to save us all. She saved us so many times… we can’t just leave her there. What if she’s being tortured in some hell place? We need to do this for her. Her gift to us was death…”

“And ours to her will be life,” Tara finished. “I know. I love Buffy too, and I want to help her, but we have to do this slowly and carefully. Both for our sakes and hers. We can’t risk anything going wrong.”

Willow smiled gratefully at her. “Thank you.”

Tara smiled back. “You don’t have to. You’re just thinking of others before yourself. That’s a part of the Willow package I wouldn’t trade for anything. It makes me love you more.”

Willow smiled happily at her. She leaned over and gently kissed Tara, running her hand through Tara’s hair, feeling it run over her skin. Tara pulled her closer, savouring the kiss. She gently pulled away. Willow looked confused, but it cleared up when Tara turned her attention to Willow’s forehead, showering her face with kisses. Her nose, eyelids, cute little freckles. Tara breathed in Willow’s scent, the sweet smell stirring her. She moved down to Willow’s neck, still gently kissing. Willow moaned slightly, savouring each sensation. She moved her hands to the straps of Tara’s nightdress, gently sliding them down her silky shoulders. Tara kissed harder in anticipation as Willow pulled the dress down fully, leaving Tara’s naked body bathed in moonlight. Tara moved back and Willow stared at each curve, enjoying every inch of her skin. Her body tingled and she leant forward, caressing Tara’s shoulders, before moving to the blonde’s full breasts, kissing hungrily, feeling Tara’s nipples go hard in her mouth. Tara breathed hard and loudly, enjoying each second. She wanted Willow – now. She urgently tugged at Willow’s nightdress, pulling it off with relish. Willow continued kissing her breasts, placing her hand on Tara’s back and gently lowering her from her sat position to lying flat on the bed. She stopped kissing and gently ran her tongue down Tara’s tummy, feeling Tara shiver with pleasure. She moved even lower and slowly lapped up Tara’s nectar, then began to move her tongue quickly inside Tara. Tara moaned with delight. Willow cupped her hand and inserted it slowly, although Tara was more than wet enough to take it. Still hungrily stimulating Tara with her tongue, she moved her hand to Tara’s throbbing clitoris, moving her fingers over and over, filled with joy at the sound Tara’s gasps and cries of ecstasy. Tara felt her muscles slightly clench, then a sudden explosion of pleasure as the orgasm rocketed through her body. She screamed out Willow’s name and lay there, basking in bliss. Willow brought her face up, so it was level with Tara’s.

Tara panted: “That was… that was the most… intense orgasm I’ve ever… had”. Willow smiled at her. “I don’t like the sound of that singular”, she whispered into Tara’s ear, “I much prefer the plural.” She grinned and resumed, her own body now getting perilously close to explosion point as she sent more and more waves of pleasure hurtling through Tara. Tara came again and again, each time more satisfying. She brought Willow’s head back up. “I think it’s my turn now.” Willow smiled and laid back as Tara headed straight for her clit, stroking and sucking urgently. Willow was so close that she came instantly. Tara continued each movement, sending tendrils of joy through Willow’s body until Willow could handle no more. Tara laid next to Willow, both panting in exhaustion, sweat covering their bodies. They held each other, each staring at the love in the other’s eyes before slowly drifting into peaceful sleep.

Edited by: LostWithoutTara at: 5/3/03 10:00:01 am

[Stroke of Luck]

Mhhhh nice scene



So they want to bring Buffy back. Great but I hope Buffy will not suffer so much, like she did on the show.



Hope to more soon!!!



Cu

SoL/Natti



Man sieht nur mit dem Herzen gut, das Wesentliche ist für die Augen unsichtbar - Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

[LostWithoutTara]

Part Three – ‘I Know You’



Willow woke alone in the morning, turning to find a note where Tara should have been, She instantly recognised the long flowing script as Tara’s. “Morning, sleepy-head. I had to go to the library to get some books for my art history project. Dawnie is spending the day at Janices’. Wish I was with you. Love, Tara.” Willow grinned. Even in her writing, Tara was cute. She leisurely got up and had a warm shower before pulling on some clothes. Today, she felt like… fuzzy jumpers. But that would have been insane Willow-logic as it was the middle of summer, in California. Willow finally decided on a red t-shirt and pair of jeans, tugging them on. Her next stop was to check on the Buffy-bot, which was recharging on the real Buffy’s bed. Willow felt a pang of uneasiness mixed with excitement. ‘I’m gonna bring you back, Buffy,’ she silently promised before heading downstairs to get some breakfast.



Three waffles later, Willow studied her spellbook, or rather the Magic Box spellbook – she’d ‘borrowed’ it after her fight with Glory and had consequently been using it as her source of monster-vanquishing spells. She tapped her pen against the coffee table and searched through the book again, making absolutely sure she hadn’t missed out on any spells. Finding that she hadn’t, Willow turned to the page she wanted, turning to the spell with the Urn. She wrote down the ingredients and equipment precisely, making sure everything was fully correct. ‘Time to go shopping’, she thought.







Egypt, BC



Willow walked down the dusty corridor, her bare feet silently crossing the sandy stones, through the corridor into the anteroom. She was glad to be out of the burning sun. ‘Ra has blessed us today,’ she thought. She knelt in front of the stone altar in the middle of the room and stared at the vast amounts of hieroglyphics decorating the walls. The Temple of Isis was beautiful. Willow reached into her ceremonial dress and took her incense out, followed by her herbs. She placed them into a small bowl on the altar. As priestess, it was her duty to attend to such matters. Blessings, sacrifices to the Great Ones. Isis was the goddess of women and children, wife of Osiris, he who controlled the gates of life. The mixture began to glow a pale green colour, releasing small sparks of light that hovered in the air. Willow began to recite her spell: ‘Oh Goddess, bless our humble land today. Ensure our bounty. We live to serve you, oh Goddess Isis. Take our supplication to thee.’ Willow pulled out her final item, a vial of blood and poured it into the bowl. The green flecks flashed through the colours of the rainbow and vanished. Although the supplication was finished. Willow knelt there, praying for several hours.



Sunnydale, 2001



Willow carefully planned her visits to Sunnydale’s magic stores, purchasing one or two items only at each one. The last thing she wanted was for anyone to get even the vaguest hint that she might attempt a resurrection. She steered clear of the Magic Box for fear that Giles might ask what she was up to. She may be a terrific spellcaster, but she knew that she was a very bad liar. If Giles knew what she was going to do, he’d kill her. Well, maybe not that, but he’d definitely take his glasses off and give her a stern lecture about the inappropriateness of such things. Willow sat down on a wall and checked her list. Sage, burba weed, shalan crystal, dragonite powder, newt eyes… the only thing left was the Urn itself. How on earth was she going to get that?



Tara finished checking her books out of the library, having had enough of the studying for today. She put them into her backpack and left. She’d fetch Dawn next, then stop at the grocery store. Perhaps Dawnie would like some pancakes? Tara reminded herself to buy more cat food for Miss Kitty. The last thing they needed was for her to attempt to eat Amy again. If they ever did manage to change Amy back, she was going to be very traumatised after almost becoming a feline delicacy. Tara checked her watch and walked faster. It would be dark in a little while. She shivered. There was something about it, the blackness… it just chilled her to her soul. Snuggling with Willow on the sofa was much more preferable.







The ground trembled more. Tonight it would happen. The hunt would begin.

[willntlover]

Cool fic! I am loving your spin on the summer happenings.



I have one question though. Didn't Willow need a blood sacrifice? Vino de madre or something??? Just curious. Again really enjoying the fic.



-Will

"I think finding her soulmate would have made Tara a more confident and secure person" -Amber Benson

[LostWithoutTara]

Yep, Willow will need the blood. I just left it off the list as I figured she'd want to get the Urn first. No point killing poor Bambi for nothing.

[willntlover]

That's so sweet for the deer.



-Will

"I think finding her soulmate would have made Tara a more confident and secure person" -Amber Benson

[Stroke of Luck]

Nice chapter



So Buffy´s resurraction is not far away?? Hope everything goes right.



That made me laugh just too funny

Quote:

---

Tara reminded herself to buy more cat food for Miss Kitty. The last thing they needed was for her to attempt to eat Amy again.

---

Cu

SoL/Natti



Man sieht nur mit dem Herzen gut, das Wesentliche ist für die Augen unsichtbar - Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

[LostWithoutTara]

Part Four – ‘Beginning’



Egypt, BC



Willow finished praying and stood up, her feet chilled by the shaded stone. She took one final glance around before swiftly exiting the temple, crossing onto the sandy dunes. The sun had started to set, filling the sky with pink, red and orange. Willow paused to admire the view. A hand gently slid through hers, and Willow gasped in surprise. But she did not panic. She knew that touch – it could only be one person. She turned and smiled at the woman standing beside her… “Tara.”



Sunnydale, 2001



Tara turned her key in the lock to the house, gently pushing the door open as it clicked. Locked doors were always a good thing. That meant that no hellmouth gatecrashers had made their way in. The residents of Sunnydale had a habit of leaving their doors unlocked – even Mr. Giles never seemed to bother with it.

“Mmnfkay?” came Dawn’s muffled voice from behind her. Dawn had volunteered to carry the grocery bags provided she got first pick at… well, pretty much everything.



Tara switched the light on. “Willow? Hello?” She moved forward and Dawn followed her in, setting the grocery bags down on the table.

“Maybe Willow went out with Buffybot for patrol? The sun set 10 minutes ago.”

“Maybe.” Tara was sure Dawnie was right, and she knew Willow could take care of herself, but it was nice to be kept in the loop sometimes. Couldn’t Will have called her in the library? Dawn moved forward and slid her arm next to Tara’s. “Willow’ll be fine. You know she’s careful. And if you go, we won’t be able to make quesadillas. Mine always turn out gross. Please?” Dawn looked at her pleadingly, doing the best sweet and innocent gaze she could. Tara’s worried expression softened. She smiled at Dawn. “Okay, you get the things out and I’ll unpack the shopping.”



Willow swept into the alleyway silently, clutching the piece of paper in her hand. Her heart raced as she slowly paced forward, holding her hand out. She touched something in the centre of the alleyway, which was bizarre as there was nothing there. A hot sensation flooded through her body, her senses switching to full as she stepped through the cloak into the building.



She stared at the room in front of her. Crackhousey was the best way to describe it. Stuffing spilled out of ancient-looking chairs, the sole table was decrepit and on its last legs. Worst of all, though, were the people. Two guys and a girl sat around the room. They glared at her, then returned to their own little worlds, rocking slowly back and forth, eyes glazed, faces twitching. Willow fought the urge to panic. She wished she hadn’t come here, and that Tara were with her. But she couldn’t take any chance that Tara might get hurt. This Rack guy was shady. It was better she went alone then risk any danger to Tara. A lone battered door separated the waiting room from another – presumably Rack’s inner sanctum.



Willow wished she hadn’t got into this. But Chloe had said that Rack might know about the Urn’s location. Chloe was another member of the Wicca group. Willow hadn’t recalled seeing her before, but understood that it was perfectly possible for there to actually be other real witches in that bunch of wanna-blessed-bes. Chloe, come to think of it, was kind of twitchy too, like the people around her. Did she come here often?



Taking a deep breath, Willow pushed the door open. A girl lay on the floor, writhing slowly, encased in glowing colours as magic orbs swam around her. Another was melded with the wall, sliding in and out of vision, moaning slowly in pleasure. The source of the sparks was a man lying on a couch. He stirred at her entrance, getting up and moving towards her. Willow felt frozen to the spot in fear.



“You’re new,” Rack noted, leering at her, Willow felt his eyes scan her body, boring into her, She defensively crossed her arms over her chest and examined his face. His hair lay in greasy strings across his head, his face scarred. But he was powerful. She could tell. “I like newbies. Look at you, all afraid, a little slip of a girl…” He stretched out to put his hand to her chest.

“Calesxum!” cried Willow. A barrier flew up between them and knocked Rack back. He laughed. “Fiesty, too. I like that. So tell me, Red, what did you come to Uncle Rack for?” Willow attempted to open her mouth, but he interrupted her. Willow was glad. Her heart was beating so hard it would probably jump out of her mouth and run home where her brain and spine seemed to have gone. “I can tell you’re not here for my usual. You want something, don’t you? Something old. What is it? Tell Uncle Rack.”

“I-I heard that you knew about the Urn Of Osiris…” Willow blurted out. Rack’s eyes widened. She wanted to get away from him as soon as possible.

“So little Red wants to play with resurrection.” Rack grinned and moved closer, dropping his voice to a whisper and putting his hand to her face. His touch burned her. “Your urn is in a reality that doesn’t exist.” Willow looked confused. Rack stared at her. “Want another hint? It’s in an auction house. You should know that answer, Red. For a girl of your intelligence it shouldn’t be difficult.”



Willow couldn’t bear to have him touching her another second. She turned and ran, into the fresh air. Rack’s laughter echoed behind her. “See you soon, Willow.” She carried on running until she got back to the house.



Tara and Dawn finished eating their quesadillas and piled the plates into the sink. Tara felt much more relaxed, even singing along with Dawn to the radio while they washed up. ‘Life may deal you a bad hand’, she thought, ‘but it’s others who make you what you are.’ Dawn had suffered so much, but she was coping remarkably well. Tara was so proud of her. For once, life seemed to be looking good.



The earth thundered and shattered, twisting as she emerged from the soil. The plants wept as she stood, surveying all around her. It was the time again. They were back. And they would die.

[Stroke of Luck]

Argh I hate Rack I just hope that Willow will be safe.



More want to read more



Cu

SoL/Natti



Man sieht nur mit dem Herzen gut, das Wesentliche ist für die Augen unsichtbar - Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

[LostWithoutTara]

Thank-you for your replies, Stroke Of Luck. They're really encouraging. Part Five should have been up today (2nd April) but I got a stupid essay to do



Oh well, I'm free tomorrow so fanfic ahoy!

[LostWithoutTara]

Part Five – ‘Lost In Me’



Willow exploded through the front door, sprinting up to her sanctuary – the bedroom, peeling off her clothes and into the shower, letting the water flush across her face, removing Rack’s burning touch from her skin. She felt tainted, impure. What she’d seen, felt… She grabbed her body sponge and scrubbed her face over and over until she was sure it was gone. She panted uncontrollably. Tara’s voice came in from the other side of the door. “Willow? Are you okay?” Her voice was higher-pitched, anxious. Willow forced her breathing to slow.

“I’m okay,” she called back. “I just had a little scare – a demon or something.”

“What did it do? It didn’t hurt you? Did you stop it?”

“Ummm, I’m just fine. I just need a couple of minutes to regroup.”

Tara could tell that Willow didn’t want to talk. She was obviously scared, and Tara didn’t want to force the issue. “Dawn and I made quesadillas. There’re a few left over if you want them.” Food talk was probably a bit dumb at the moment, but until she knew what had scared her poor Willow, she didn’t want to make it worse. “I-I’ll be downstairs when you’re ready.”

“Okay,” came Willow’s voice from behind the door. The shower was still turned on. Tara slowly and unhappily went back downstairs. Dawn stood wide-eyed at the bottom of the stairs.

“Is she okay?”

Tara forced a smile. “She’s fine. S-s-she just had a little demon-related trouble.” Dawn knew that Tara only stuttered when she was really nervous and uncomfortable. Her alarm bells came on.

“Is there anything I can do to help?”

“No sweetie. Thank you.” Tara did her best ‘really-worried-but-don’t-want-to-worry-you’ smile and hoped for the best. Dawn seemed to buy it and headed back into the kitchen. Tara frowned. What had scared Willow so much?



Egypt, BC



Willow and Tara held hands, staring at the sunset. Their gazes met and they kissed. Willow hungrily slid her tongue over Tara’s, feeling the burning need – a paradox, it left her both utterly satisfied – complete, actually – and desperate for more. She sensed Tara’s happiness, and they continued the kiss, gently probing the other’s mouth. Silently, the shadow slipped down behind them.



Victorian England, 1891



Tara walked gracefully into the ball, holding onto her father’s arm. She blushed as the eligible bachelors turned and stared at her. She wasn’t really used to the male attention, although nurse said a woman like her should expect nothing less. She didn’t really want their attention, either. She allowed her father to sit her down at a table by the edge of the dancefloor and discretely looked around. Where was she? Her heart skipped a beat as she saw Miss Rosenberg sat across the room, dressed in a splendid green gown that brought out the beautiful emerald specks in her eyes. Tara realised she’d been staring and held up her fan, averting her gaze, looking elsewhere. She kept sneaking back quick looks at Miss Rosenberg – her supple skin, the way she looked as she laughed, the way the gown emphasised her curves… Tara blushed again. Such thoughts were highly inappropriate for a young lady such as herself. Father said she should marry a nice man and have children. She knew she didn’t want that. All she wanted was… her.



Sunnydale, 2001



She looked around. The world looked much different now. But it had been 40 years since she had last been here, so that was hardly surprising. But it was the time. The call had sounded. They had found each other. Soon, it would happen. By Satan himself, she would not allow it. The first thing – where were they?



Rack licked his fingers. The redhead tasted like strawberries, succulent, juicy, waiting to be picked. There was power within her. And now she had tasted it. It wouldn’t be long until she was back.



“So, what happened?” Tara looked fearfully at Willow, lying next to her in bed. Willow’s face looked a bit raw where she had scrubbed it so hard. Willow turned to her. “It was just a demon. It hit me, and I just freaked out. It was like its touch just burned me. I went all spazzy… I’m sorry I scared you.”

“Don’t worry, Willow. Just, let me know when you go patrolling. I want to help you. I don’t want to see you terrified. I love you, and when you’re scared, I feel scared too.”

“I’m sorry,” Willow repeated. “I promise, I’ll never do it again.” She looked apologetically at Tara. Tara reached over and turned out the bedroom light. She gently kissed Willow’s forehead, and they snuggled together, drifting into sleep.



Egypt, BC.



The shadow followed them as they walked to their home, gliding silently along. She watched as they laughed and chatted… so in love. It was them, no doubt about it. She slid behind a building, her body condensing into human form. She felt in her pocket, feeling the blade between her fingers. Shadi leapt onto the roof of the house, landing silently, like a cat. The cover of darkness concealed her perfectly. She’d leave an hour, wait until they slept. Then… she clutched the knife harder. They could run from her, but she’d find them. Ten times, she’d found them. She pressed her body to the roof, waiting silently, a predator.



Sunnydale, 2001



As day broke, the rain slowly began to pour, dripping off the plants and forming puddles. Shadi walked down the street, staring at the buildings on either side of the street. She had to find them, and soon. The city was different to the country. They could be anywhere. Shadi decided to perform a locator spell. If they were together like she believed, they’d be easily tracked. That much magic in one space would be a homing beacon. She just had to obtain the supplies. She stopped and smiled as she saw the shop in front of her. Perfect.



The Magic Box.

[Grimlock72]

Hmm... Shadi doesn't like happy couples much does she ?



For some reason I can't see a lone assasin with a knife killing both my favourite wiccans.... it does raise the interesting question of home-security though. Sure, vampires can't get in but can other demons ? I'm classifying Shadi as demon simple because she seems intend to kill both Willow or Tara, I'm easy that way



I don't understand why Willow didn't tell Tara she had to visit an ugly warlock to get info on the Urn of Osiris. That in and of itself isn't all THAT bad now is it ? The urn btw. isn't in another dimension as such, it's just being sold over the internet



Grimmy

--

She(Tara) knew that she was Willow too. If she knew that then why hadn't Willow herself? That wasn't fair. She was Willow. she should have known that first. -- Willow in _Sidestep Chronicle_ (part 80)

[LostWithoutTara]

You make some very good points, so I'll address them here.



1). Sure, Shadi doesn't seem that strong now, but wait 'til the next couple of parts!



2) I know about the urn. A 'reality that doesn't exist'? A virtual reality - the Internet. I think I mentioned the auction house bit too (the urn was being sold on ebay) - a virtual auction house.



3) Willow hasn't told Tara about Rack because he did something to her, but more on that soon. I put that she felt something when he touched her (reread the bit where she's in the shower), but that's what the next bit will begin to explain.



Thank you for the reply. Don't worry, all will soon be revealed.

Edited by: LostWithoutTara at: 4/5/03 10:55:03 am

[LostWithoutTara]

Part Six – ‘Broken’



Willow woke, propping herself up with her elbows. She glanced to her side. Tara lay there, sleeping peacefully. The clock read seven, and sunlight was already beginning to filter into the room. Rain echoed outside. She sat there, feeling all fuzzy and warm. But she knew what that meant. She was experiencing that brief moment when you woke and had no thought of your troubles. Like a steamroller, her worries ploughed back into her head. Willow sighed and put her head back on her pillow, trying to form a mental list of her problems. First, there was Buffy. The urn was in a ‘reality that doesn’t exist’. What was that? She sighed. Why did demons and evil people always have to be so cryptic? It was like they wanted you to suffer even before they ate you or made with the chopping. She frowned. The clue led to Rack, obviously. Her face curled up in disgust at the thought of his lecherous eyes scanning her body. Pervert. If you had to stare at a girl’s boobs, you should at least be courteous enough to do it subtly. Rack hadn’t even attempted to cover it up, that smirk of his spreading over his decaying teeth. She shivered. When he had touched her, it was like he had unlocked something inside her. Her face had boiled, her mind filled with images. A woman in black, long black hair. Kinda like Faith, but less cleavage on display. It was her eyes, though. The image had emblazoned itself within her memory. Dead, black eyes. An insatiable hunger. And worst, Willow felt like she knew her. But how did she know someone she’d never even met? She shut her eyes and snuggled closer to Tara. For now, she just wanted to be with the person she loved. Death and mayhem could come later.



“Xander!” called Anya. “We have to go, or I’ll be late!” Anya decided that there was no way she was walking through the rain to work. “Xander, hurry up!” She was late already, what with the getting distracted and crazy naked sex. That would be the only thing to make her late. She had to greet the customers, with their bulging wallets full of money… The scent of cold hard cash was like no other. She imagined running it through her fingers, the cool paper against her skin. She sighed happily. “So good…” she whispered, then glanced back at her watch. “XANDER!” If there was anything TV had taught her about modern American life, it was that a little nagging went a long way. It seemed to work for Marge Simpson. Xander hurried down the stairs.

“Okay, I’m ready.” He sounded exasperated. “Have you got your book?” Anya rolled her eyes and pulled it out of her bag. The cover read: ‘The Easy Guide To Political Correctness’. Xander had decided to buy it for her to enable her to brush up her customer service after the swanroot debacle. Stupid children and their stupid parents. “Can we go now?” she asked impatiently. Xander opened the door for her and she walked out, heading for the car. It was big and surprisingly comfy – the sex in the back seat wasn’t that bad, either. Xander unlocked the doors and Anya climbed in to the passenger seat, doing up her seatbelt. Xander started the engine and they began to travel down the road. Giles had decided to take the day off for once, so Anya had to open up and everything. They were only a few minutes late, so there shouldn’t be any trouble.



Willow started awake, again turning to the clock. It read nine a.m. She’d only shut her eyes for a second… Willow decided to get up. She leaned over and kissed Tara’s forehead. She jumped as Tara’s eyes snapped open. Tara giggled slightly. “Morning.”

“How long have you been awake?” queried Willow.

“Only a couple of minutes,” answered Tara, smiling at her mischievously. Willow felt her heart skip a beat and kissed her. Tara kissed back and pulled Willow closer, slowly unbuttoning Willow’s pajama top. Willow was wearing her moomoo pajamas, as Tara had nicknamed then. They were pink with big brown splotches, like a cow. Except for the cows not being pink. Willow gently bit Tara’s lip and moved to her neck. Smoochies with Tara was much better than facing the world. Tara ran the fingers of one of her hands through Willow’s hair, using the other to tug Willow’s top off. They rolled over, Tara now on top of Willow. She kissed Willow’s breasts, at first gently, then harder, hearing Willow’s breathing grow fast and listening to the moans of pleasure escaping her body. Willow shut her eyes, heightening the feeling of Tara’s mouth against her skin. Her body tingled in anticipation of what was to come. She opened her eyes, sliding the straps of Tara’s nightdress down, exposing her. Tara was breathtaking. The sight of her bare skin excited Willow even more. Tara moved down, slowly peeling off Willow’s pajama bottoms, running her hand along Willow’s thighs, gently teasing her. Willow sighed in happy frustration. Tara disappeared from view quickly, then remerged with the harness and Willow’s favourite toy. She slowly strapped it on, enjoying the excitement on Willow’s face, before moving forward, slowly inserting it. Willow gasped in pleasure, shutting her eyes again, her head resting on the pillow as Tara thrust. Tara resumed kissing Willow’s breasts as she moved, running her tongue over the redhead’s hard nipples, listening to her cries of pleasure. With each movement, it pressed against her clitoris, sending sparks flooding through her body. She listened as Willow’s moans increased, slowly increasing the speed as she gauged how close Willow was. “More,” cried Willow, feeling every sensation as each movement sent more shockwaves circling. Her body tensed as she grew closer and closer, until the explosion came. “TARA!” she screamed in ecstasy. Their bodies levitated from the bed as sparks of magic flew out, surrounding them. Willow opened her eyes, noting that the ceiling seemed to be closer than usual. Tara moved level with Willow, kissing her face and playfully nibbling her earlobe. Willow felt a sensation of unbridled peace wash over her. She ran her hand down Tara’s face, pulling her closer and gently kissing her. “I love you.” Tara smiled joyfully back at her and they embraced. “I love you too. More than anything.” Willow looked around, confused. “Tara…” the magic gave way and they fell back onto the bed with a crash. Tara smiled at her. “I guess the earth really did move.”



“Stupid pedestrians,” mumbled Anya. “Why do we have to stop for them? They should stop being so cheap and get a car.” Xander looked at her.

“Ahn, we have to stop, otherwise we have lots of dead people and a very pissed off judge. Then there’s no car, ever.”

“Fine. Continue driving at your snail-like pace.” Anya glanced at her watch. They were now 20 minutes late. Her shoppers would be waiting, or maybe even taking their money elsewhere… she was filled with terror. Anya gripped the door handle hardly. Not long, shoppers. Just a couple of minutes… After what seemed like an eternity, Xander pulled up to the kerb. Anya got out excitedly, then stared at the building. The windows had been completely smashed in.



Shadi took her ingredients – courtesy of the Magic Box - and placed them around her. She could have just gone shadowy and got in and out easily, but smashing was much more fun. She enjoyed watching the suffering, causing the suffering, but most of all, anticipating the suffering. As much as she would like to kill all of Sunnydale’s residents, she was here for them. And she had to locate them. Shadi looked around the room. It was very fancy. When it came to killing, she had it down. The guy she’d picked was obviously loaded. A slit throat later, she’d liberated his keys and wallet – hence her luscious surroundings right now. She reached forward and took a ceramic pot, sprinkling her sage into it, followed by thistle powder and five lotus petals. She lit a match and dropped it into the pot. The mixture burned bright blue, hot smoke spewing out. Shadi took a small pendulum on a chain, holding it in the smoke. The pendulum began to glow. “Sekhmet, bless this crystal. Goddess of the hunt, head of the lion, I beseech thee. I come for the blessed ones. Two witches. One from the body of the earth, one from the tear of the spirit. One of power, one of compassion. Guide me to them, Sekhmet. Willow. Tara.” Green light suffused the pendulum. Shadi held it over a map of Sunnydale. It began to spin, moving of its own accord. Shadi waited until it suddenly stopped and pointed. Revello Drive. Excellent. Shadi smiled.



Tonight, she would kill them.

[LostWithoutTara]

This part is a bit shorter than the last couple, I'm afraid.

PLEASE NOTE that from now there will be big ol' angst. If you have any feedback, good or bad, I would be very grateful if you'd leave it. Thank you.



Part Seven – ‘History’



Egypt, BC



The cloak of darkness engulfed the buildings as Shadi lay there, pressed flat. She slowly moved forward, leaping back towards the ground and approaching the door. If she had a heart, it would be beating trebly fast right now. Slowly, she paced, melting in and out of the long shadows stretching across the dusty path. She reached the side wall, transforming to shadow and sliding in under the door, settling on the wall. The room was dark, sparsely decorated. Neither of them were in there. It was safe for her. She flowed back to the floor, becoming human again, pulling out the sacred knife. Forward, slowly… A blinding spark of energy flew into the room, knocking her backwards. The redhead stood there, her eyes fully black, magical energy crackling around her. The blonde girl stood further behind her, small blue waves of energy flowing around her hands. Shadi felt as though time were slowing… her body freezing.

“Why are you following us?” The redhead asked her, a hint of rage beneath her composed exterior. She meant business, but Shadi wasn’t afraid. She reached into her pocket again and pulled the knife out. The runic symbols carved on its blade glowed, and the magic suspending her began to dispel, swirling into the blade. She felt their fear. It was intoxicating.

“Who are you?” Willow asked, unable to hide the panic in her voice. Shadi sneered at them.

“Every time, the same thing. You never learn. I claim thee, by the powers of darkness, to be taken by the Dark Ones.” The knife glowed red in her hand, levitating. She stared at the blonde girl. “Don’t worry, I don’t want you this time. So, how about it, Red? Want to try any more of your party tricks, or can I just get on with this? I mean, if you want to tire yourself out, feel free. But it won’t help you.” Willow sent another pulse of energy out. It simply flew into the blade, rendered harmless. She turned and ran, fleeing into the night. Shadi smiled and gave chase. She moved onto the street, running. She was so close, could feel the joy that came with the kill. She laughed, savouring each second of the chase. A sharp sliding noise alerted her attention and she jumped as a huge stone slab flew at her. The blonde girl was smart. She’d figured out the game already. Shadi had to stop her. She controlled her jump, floating back and landing by the blonde, delivering a fierce punch to her chin. The girl’s head snapped back and she slumped to the floor, unconscious.

“Tara!” screamed Willow. She ran to her, lying there.

“She’s not dead. I told you, it’s you I want.”

“Why are you doing this?”

Shadi couldn’t help but smirk. “If I told you that, it would take away my fun, wouldn’t it?” Willow was broken now. She could tell. She pulled the knife out and drove it into her skin. She moaned as the golden light slipped out of her and into the blade. Willow collapsed to the floor, dead. Shadi felt disappointed. That had been way too easy. But at least the job was done.



Sunnydale, 2001



Of course, now the witches were stronger. Egypt had been early, when they had been weak. Magic was powerful, but that couldn’t hurt her as long as she had the blade. And they couldn’t take that from her. Things were slotting nicely into place. They were together, at Revello Drive. That could pose a little bit of a problem. 1891 had been easily. They’d only just found each other. Their powers were almost non-existent. She’d picked Tara off with incredible ease. But now, it would be harder. They came back wiser and stronger. But still, they were no match for her.







       

Edited by: LostWithoutTara at: 4/6/03 10:43:57 am

[justin]

This is a very intersting story.



It seems that the scenes in Egypt and 1891 are Willow and Tara's past lives. Which means that this Shadi's been hunting them for a long time. What exavctly has she got against them. Hmm, maybe she works for ME



So there's angst coming up, okay assuming crash postion

I understand, you should be with the person you l-love


I am

[Cindy Lou Who]

Such a story! My head spins and whirls!



Did I understand correctly that 10 times through history Shadi has been a determined pursuer. The Willow and Tara union seems destined. What it is about W/T - and Shadi's true nature and purpose - that drives her to destroy them I wonder.



You really get me to shiver with all the "flowers wilting; earth trembling and crying" references. The imagery is evocative and beautiful.



Rack = Thorough-going YUCK! Try as i might I've not found *ONE* saving grace about him ever.



You've hooked me good 'n' proper you have!



~Suse

Edited by: Cindy Lou Who at: 4/6/03 7:28:25 pm

[Stroke of Luck]

Great update



I hope Willow and Tara are strong/tough enough to survive! You would never hurt them don´t you?



But why does Shadi want to kill them.



Cu

SoL/Natti



Man sieht nur mit dem Herzen gut, das Wesentliche ist für die Augen unsichtbar - Antoine de Saint-Exupéry

[LostWithoutTara]

Thank-you everyone!!







Next part will be a couple of days. Expect it by Thursday.

Edited by: LostWithoutTara at: 4/7/03 10:46:23 am

[Grimlock72]

Hmm, don't you just hate it when something is just magic resistant ? Way to easy.



Besides, if magic attacks won't work.. apply them to yourself and just force the knife out of shardi's hand using physical power. After all, thats where all her power seems to come from. Heck, Buffy might be able to handle her... though the floating could be a problem there



Or try attacking anything *except* Shadi herself, the stone-slab was a good try.



I get that low-level magic doesn't seem to work but why wouldn't "normal" human defense work? I.e. keep the evil knife away from you and wrestle it out of shadi's hand. Requires a shift in methods sure, if you've used magic for self-defense the last three years or so it's easy to become to dependant on it.



Yeah, the make-me-strong-and-fast spell should work here... I do wonder what would have happened if Tara had tried to use her magic versus Shadi. That knife might be selective about what it absorbs and since Shadi actually *wants* Willow it stands to reason it would absorp anything Willow 'gives' freely.



Running away likely won't help so thats not a good thing to try. Unless you're running towards something/someone specific that is. Hmm, I guess I just don't like the 'powerless to do anything' idea much



I don't *like* Shadi much, can you tell ??



Here endeth the rambling .



Grimmy

--

She(Tara) knew that she was Willow too. If she knew that then why hadn't Willow herself? That wasn't fair. She was Willow. she should have known that first. -- Willow in _Sidestep Chronicle_ (part 80)

[LostWithoutTara]

Mmm... note that there's a big time lapse between Egypt and now. Tara and Willow are stronger and more mature now than they were then. Note I put that Shadi wanted Willow that time - now her wishes may have changed. Shadi has the ability to change from human to shadow at will. Physically assaulting her isn't going to work.



Her power's not from the knife - that's just a handy tool. But I don't want to give away the plot, so no more...

[LostWithoutTara]

- Okay, sorry this part is a day late. Stupid essay…



Part Eight – ‘Recall’



Victorian England, 1891



It must have been about the tenth ball when she finally plucked up the courage to speak to Miss Rosenberg, and that was only because she’d noticed Miss Rosenberg staring back at her when she was staring, if that made any sense. Tara felt that it was like a connection, an undertow pulling them together. She’d felt it the first time they’d met, and now she was sure Miss Rosenberg – no, Willow – had felt it too. In her bedroom, Tara finished preparing and smiled happily, both at the anticipation of what was coming and at knowing her love’s first name. High society was all very well, but in these days where you could be paired off with any man your father chose fit – provided he had plenty of money, of course – it was rare to find that one person you were sure you were meant to be with. And in her case, it was Willow. They’d only spoken twice, but she already knew. They were to meet tonight. Then she would be sure.



Shadi stared at the building where Tara was preparing. She’d been extremely lucky this time. They hadn’t even gotten together yet, which was a relief. 1742 had been different. They were together, and powerful. The weakness of Egypt and days gone past had gone. They no longer fled her in terror. Part of them knew, and they fought back. But they’d fallen every time, as they would continue to. She blended into the shadows. It was dark out. They’d planned a secret meeting. She’d jump Tara when she came out. No fight, no magic, just sweet death.



Sunnydale, 2001



Willow finished dressing, going to her little jewellery box. She searched through it, her hand clasping the doll’s-eye crystal Tara had given her. She placed it around her neck, the small jewel hanging close to her heart. She and Tara were going to head to the Magic Box. Anya would be there and they could discuss the spell with her - providing no Giles and not many customers. Discussing their monster escapades had gotten them more than a few raised eyebrows. How did it go? Silence was golden. Unless evil creepy demons were trying to chop your heart out. Tara entered the bedroom, wet from the shower and wrapped in a towel. Willow could smell the scent of rose petals on her skin. She smiled, turning. “Nice shower?” Tara nodded.

“Mmm-hmm. Fresh and, um, I can’t think of another word beginning with ‘f’ to go with it.”

“What about fantastic? Fabulous? Other f-words that I could say but don’t want Dawn to hear?” Tara grinned. “I’ll be ready in a minute. And then we can head to the shop, to talk shop and everything. I just need to grab some clothes. I don’t think Sunnydale’s general population would appreciate me naked on Main Street.” Willow smiled wickedly: “I don’t know about that…” Tara giggled. Willow gestured to the wardrobe. “What are you going to wear? I mean, if you’re one hundred percent sure about the no nudity.”

“I don’t know…”

“Can I make a suggestion?” asked Willow. She waved her hand and little orbs surrounded the bed, forming clothes. “I like your blue top and those jeans, if that helps.” Tara frowned slightly. Willow shouldn’t be using magic like that. All she had to do was walk a few steps. Why use magic when something can be done the natural way? She forced a smile. Perhaps she was just being a bit overcautious. Willow had good judgement and control most of the time, but sometimes… She noticed Willow staring at her. “Thanks. Okay, if you give me two minutes I’ll be ready.” Willow nodded and left the bedroom, heading down the stairs to the lounge, where Miss Kitty was sat sprawled on the middle of the sofa. Willow noted that cats always sat in the middle, never the side. They liked to have as much space as possible. Willow moved over and swept Miss Kitty up into her arms. “Hello, you.” Miss Kitty purred in appreciation and Willow treated her to some heavy petting. “We’re going to the magic shop today. I know, maybe I can stop at the pet store and get you some catnip. That is, if you’re over the whole addiction.” She giggled. Miss Kitty had got a bit too keen on the catnip. It’s a shame there wasn’t a twelve-step program for kittens. She moved her hand to Miss Kitty’s head and made circles between her ears. Miss Kitty nuzzled up against her, purring even more loudly. Willow smiled and rested her head on the sofa, shutting her eyes. She felt calm, at peace.



Suddenly a blinding pain ripped through her head. Willow cried out. It felt like a red-hot poker being shoved through her head. Pictures swam before her eyes. It was the same woman as before, clutching a blade. Her black hair, empty eyes, pure hunger… Another scene flashed before her. Tara cried out as the blade sliced into her flesh, white light flowing out of her and into the knife. Willow screamed for Tara.

“What’s wrong, Willow??!!” asked Tara anxiously, her arms protectively wrapping around her soulmate. Willow’s eyes opened, her breathing loud and erratic. “Tara…” she cried, relief evident in her voice, pulling her closer. Her face burned, in the same place that Rack had touched her. “We have to go now, Tara. To the Magic Box. Stock up on every protective spell we can get. Something is coming, Tara. It wants to kill us.”



       

[Stroke of Luck]

I love the interaction between Willow and Tara!!!



But I don´t like to see when Willow suffers!!! And Tara will be killed I don´t like that, but I hope you do your best and don´t hit or kill Tara



Great update. More please



Cu

SoL/Natti



There are two kinds of tears, tears for those who leave you, and tears for those you never let go - Gabrielle/The Quest

[Grimlock72]

We still don't know much about Shadi, only that she likes to kill... protective spells won't solve the problem. Any shield eventually cracks down, they will need at least some offensive spells. Good thing Willow had that insightfull flash... must have hurt though....



Tara must talk to Willow about how she feels about using magic. It's entirely possible they both have different views on that. That can easily be fixed by talking to each other early on. Letting it brew isn't any good, that way it comes out like a vulcano-eruption.. which won't help getting your point across. (no matter how well intended). So talk already !



Grimmy

--

She(Tara) knew that she was Willow too. If she knew that then why hadn't Willow herself? That wasn't fair. She was Willow. she should have known that first. -- Willow in _Sidestep Chronicle_ (part 80)

[LostWithoutTara]

I haven't decided yet whether or not I will focus on the magic problems with Willow. This story takes place prior to Season Six and I'm not changing any of the events that happened (at least not now). Big ol' action is coming soon, just be patient.

Edited by: LostWithoutTara at: 4/11/03 10:42:35 am