Hey babygirl!

I'm saying a prayer to send the muses to you. I know how you love and enjoy writing, and I'm sure you'll be back in no time.

And I love you, even if you send me password-protected files. LOL



Karinna.



PS: Here's your dancing banana

RedSun cl: I am sOoOoOo sorry K! Could you ever forgive me? I know it was awful wicked of me to send you protected files... Bad Jess. Anyway - the muses have been kind lately... They have sent me wonderful things to write about. Some of which will be up at Extraflamey soonish.

You know you love me



Oh, and thanks for my banana... It drives me wild!





Jessica

That was sooo sweet. I think i'm gonna cry.





Great job.





brittney







"Arn't you going to tell te 'break a leg'?"

"Break 'em both." Amber Benson as Cheyenne in The Crush

That was lovely! Can't wait for more.

MOre!



Chapter 13 'Glimpsing Terror'



“How dare you do this to me witch!” Amy trembles in fear, looking up at her master from her place on the floor. “I-I-I,” she stammers out before he lands a brutal backhand on her. “Now is not the time for word, mortal. Now is when you show me the great powers you have promised. It has been 18 months since the Sorceress has wed her witch and the child of prophecy grows its seventh month within her belly. Why is it that your plan has not been carried out? Tell me why you dally until it is too late. The Sorceress cannot be harmed while the babe lives inside her.” Klinghearth takes a slow steadying breath, “Tell me witch, do you have a plan to appease me?”



Amy slowly shakes her head, “I can’t think of one off the top of my head, but if you just give me a few days I’m sure I could-.” Klinghearth cuts her off, “ENOUGH! I grow weary of your games witch. You were useful in gathering the materials needed to restore my powers, but in the end you have done nothing but bring disappointment. You are not strong enough to perform the ritual. I’m afraid we must say good-bye.” Amy smiles, “You mean you are letting me go?” Klinghearth laughs, “Now why would I do that, witch?” With a thunderous growl he splits the earth at Amy’s feet, she is trapped; her body falls halfway into the ravine. “Tell me, do they still burn witches in this time?” Amy shrieks in pain as flames shoot up from the crevice, burning her alive. After the screaming dies down and nothing is left but charred remains Klinghearth laughs, “I guess they still do.” He smiles, “I know who to call.”



After a few minutes of chanting and muttering words in Latin a portal opens up in the floor and a demon appears in a flash of flames. “D’Hoffrin,” Klinghearth greets the new demon warmly. “Klinghearth, I heard rumors that you were trying to awaken again, but I never believed them to be true. What can I do for you, Great One?” Klinghearth laughs greatly, “That is what I wanted to hear. I need some help with a prophecy, what do you think?” D’Hoffrin grins, “I think I can be of service.”



***********



“Morning, Dawnie,” Willow greets the sleepy brunette in the kitchen. “Harump,” Dawn grunts in response as she tries pouring her cereal into a glass of orange juice. Willow quickly stops her saying, “How about I make your cereal this morning.” Dawn nods, laying her head down on the counter. After a few seconds she looks back up at Willow and asks, “What did you do this time?” Willow shrugs and ducks her head sheepishly, “I dunno, Dawn. I might have said something about changing her diet to be better for the baby.” Dawn groans and rolls her eyes.



“Do you know how much sleep I got last night?” Willow shrugs and Dawn continues, “NONE! The extremely pregnant Tara kept wiggling or having to get up to pee, or talking in her sleep. But before that I had to hear for two hours how insensitive you were and when I asked what you did she tried to make it seem like I was being insensitive for wanting to know.” Willow laughs gently, “Those mood swings are killer, aren’t they?” Dawn nods, “You got that right!”



Buffy walks into the kitchen and seeing Dawn’s sleepy appearance says, “Willow said something again, huh?” Willow protests, “It’s not always me that does something wrong! It just happens that this time it is me.” Buffy rolls her eyes, “Where is she now?” Dawn points up in the air, “My room sounds asleep. Where she has been for the last two hours!” Buffy sighs, “Go sleep in my room, all right?” Dawn freaks out, “You really mean it?” Buffy nods, “Yeah, Tara’s slept in your room for a week now, you need to get some sleep, it’s all right to blow off some classes at college. Right Wil?” Willow opens her mouth but decides not to say anything.



Dawn looks at Willow quickly and then back at Buffy. “I’ll take it!” She kisses her sister on the cheek before disappearing up the stairs and heading into Buffy’s room. Buffy turns to Willow, “How are you holding up?” Willow shrugs, “I keep saying the wrong things.” Buffy smiles, “But you always make it up to her, right?” Willow nods, “Yes. She always forgives me and things are good again.” Buffy laughs, “She’s just got some really bad mood swings. Some people get them worse than others, you know? Plus, she’s carrying the ‘Savior of Mankind’ that’s got to be one hell of a baby, Wil.”



Willow laughs too. “Yeah, I bet!” Buffy hugs her friend, “Come on, we’ve got to get to work.” Willow groans, “I don’t want to teach a bunch of whiney high schoolers today!” Buffy shrugs, “At least you don’t have to hear about how they hate their parents!” Willow smiles, “Okay, I have that small detail to be grateful for. Let me go up and tell Tara good-bye.” Buffy nods, “I’ll be waiting in the car.” Willow turns and quietly trots up the stairs. She gently walks into Dawn’s room, trying not to wake up her wife. “I’m awake,” Tara murmurs sleepily. “Oh, yeah, sleepyhead,” Willow whispers, leaning down to kiss her cheek.



“Yeah,” Tara tells her quietly. “Well, go back to sleep, baby. I’ll be home around 2 o’clock, all right?” Tara nods, “Okay. I’ll see you then. Is Anna here yet?” Willow shakes her head, “Not yet, but Dawn is asleep in Buffy’s room if you need anything.” Tara yawns, “All right.” She loses her eyes and Willow leans down to kiss her again, “Sweet dreams.”



********



“Tighter,” Willow yells excitedly at the vampire working next to her. “I want to see his eyes bulge out like little buggies.” The vampire quivers in fear, “Yes, Ma’am.” He turns back to the person dangling from the rafters of the Bronze by a rope and pulls it taunt. “The rope will go no tighter, Ma’am,” The vampire whispers quietly. Willow’s eyes snap from the dangling body to the minion beside her, “What?” He cowers down, “The rope, Ma’am, it won’t go any tighter. I’ve pulled it as far as it can go.” Willow smiles softly at the vampire, bringing her hand up to caress its face gently. “Such a beautiful face for a vampire,” she whispers, looking back to a chair in the shadows. When she gets her approval from the shadows, Willow’s eyes turn an inky black and the vampire screams in fear. “Yes, child, tremble before me. You say the rope will go no tighter?” Willow turns her eyes up at the body and twists her arm and clenches her fist. At this act the rope tightens greatly, the man hanging from the rafters thrashing wildly. “Ma’am, I’m sorry! I tried to pull the rope-.”



Willow places a finger on his lips, “Shh… There is no need to feel afraid, little one. It is not me you need to fear. No, it is not me at all. If I were a naughty little vampire like you, I wouldn’t fear little old Willow. No, I would fear something far far worse.” The vampire starts to cry, “Worse than, you Ma’am? Worse than the Destroyer of Worlds? Worse than the one that brings trembling to the oldest vampire? I was there the day you slew the Master with nothing but your mind. I’ve seen the things you do, Ma’am. You tell me there is something worse? I cannot believe you.”



Willow laughs heartily. “You simpleton. Of course there is something worse! There always is. If you are lucky, you will live to see a glimpse of Her. But, mark my words it will only be a glimpse. For when you meet Her, she will kill you.” Willow looks back into the shadows and calls out, “Right, Mistress?” Willow releases the vampire and claps her hands together, “Ooh, goodie! It’s been ever so long since my Mistress last came out to play with a vampire!”



The first thing to emerge from the shadows is a bare leg, tan and muscular. Followed quickly by a leather-bound torso and a flawless beautiful face with stunning blue eyes. Dark eye make up and the whip that hung idly at her hip characterized her as dangerous. When she walked it seemed the earth itself trembled in fear. She came to the vampire who laid shaking on the ground and looked it in the eye. “Tell me, vampire, what is your name?” The vampire could not speak for the fear in his unbeating heart. The coldness and ruthlessness that seeped through this creatures eyes have him paralyzed.



Without warning, the earth opened up and vines attacked the vampire, pinning him to the ground and ripping into his flesh. “You will answer me when you are spoken to, vampire,” the woman says quietly, but not softly. “Maldrin, my name is Maldrin, Ma’am,” the vampire chokes out through the pain. With a snarl the woman causes another vine to shoot up through the middle of Maldrin’s stomach. “You will address me as Mistress or you will no longer have a tongue to speak with, Maldrin. Do I make myself perfectly clear?” The vampire quivers as he finds the strength to say, “Yes, Mistress.”



“Very good,” the woman says, taking time to spit on the vampire. She grins evilly, “Now, Maldrin. Why should I spare your life? I mean, according to you, I do not even exist.” Maldrin, being the stupid vampire that he is retorts, “Mistress, if you can give me a just reason for bringing about my death, I will supply you with a just reason for sparing it.” The woman laughs, “You FOOL! You dare attempt to outwit me with justice? Do you not know who I am? I am the greatest Sorceress your world has ever seen. I am the thing that evil fears. I dominate all who look upon me. I obtain all that I desire. I destroy all who get in my way. I am stronger than anything you have ever been up against in your life. I am more evil than you could begin to imagine. Why would I kill you for a just reason?” She pauses and looks towards Willow. “I will kill you because it brings my Witch a great joy.” With that said the woman takes the whip at her side and begins slashing away at the vampire.



When nothing recognizable is left of the wicked creature, the woman twirls her fingers and the vines around her head constrict, decapitating him. Willow claps in delight, “That was wonderful, Mistress!” The woman smiles, “All for you, my Willow.” The woman’s eyes flicker to the ceiling and with a twitch of her nose the man hinging there falls to the ground in a heap. “I leave you to play with him, Darling,” the woman says. Willow bounces excitedly on her feet, “Thank you!” The woman nods, “You can kill him if you wish, but don’t come whining to me when you don’t have a souled vampire to play with.” Willow pouts, “I don’t whine.” The woman laughs, “Of course you don’t.” Willow continues sulking as she makes her way over to the fallen man.



She kicks him in the ribs, starting to feel a little better when he grunts in pain. She looks one last time over at the woman, “I don’t!” The woman saunters over to Willow and kisses her deeply, “You don’t whine, Baby. All right?” Willow’s happy returns immediately as she grins like an Amazon the night before a battle. “I can play with ol’ Spikey, later Mistress,” Willow suggests coyly. The Sorceress raises her eyebrows, “Would you rather play with me, Willow?” Willow smiles, “Oh, yes, Mistress. I would very much like that.” The woman smiles, “Right here? Right now?” Willow nods, “Oh, yes. Please.” The woman shakes her head, “I have some business to attend to, my Willow. But I will play with you tonight. Sleep in my chambers tonight, Darling.”



The redhead pouts openly, “You always have business, Mistress.” The woman sighs, “I know, Willow. But it keeps us well-to-do, doesn’t it? You always have whatever you want. I promise to be home tonight and we’ll have plenty of time to ourselves.” Willow stomps her foot, “I always have what I want? What about you, Tara? I never get to spend time with you anymore.” Tara growls warningly and Willow’s eyes grow huge, “I apologize, Mistress. I didn’t mean to step out of line.” Tara nods, “It’s understandable, Willow. You’ve had a lot of excitement today. Maybe you should head off to bed and wait for me there.” Willow slowly nods her agreement. “I’ll do that, Mistress.” Tara kisses Willow’s forehead, “Goodnight, Willow. Behave until I return.” With that said, Mistress Tara leaves the room in a hurry, off to meet with some great evil, no doubt.



********



Tara sits up in the bed, sweat pouring down her face and back and her mouth feeling as if it were stuffed with cotton. Anna pops her head in, “Is everythin’ all right, Tara?” Tara looks at her and shakes her head, “No, everything is not all right!” Anna calmly walks over to Tara’s side, “What’s the matter? What do you need?” The shock of her dream wearing off, Tara starts to feel silly. “Um, I just had a bad dream, Anna. I’m a-all right now.” Anna frowns, “It must’ve been some dream, Tara. You’re lookin’ like you just saw somebody murderin’ your best friend.” Tara shrugs, “It was strange and it seemed so real, Anna.”



Anna sits down next to her, “Why don’t you tell me about it?” Tara shakes her head, “It’s not important.” Anna giggles, “Was it one of those sex dreams again? You usually make noise durin’ those, but this could have been a quiet one!” Tara swats at her playfully, “Get out of here and leave me alone, Blondie!” Anna laughs and leaves the room calling out, “I’m makin’ you some breakfast. Come down when you’re ready!” Tara lays back down for a second. “What a dream,” she mutters softly.



********



“Excellent,” Klinghearth growls, “From the mind of the Sorceress herself. I’ll just bring forth her soul from another dimension. I shall be released to rule this world once more, and the same mortal that is prophesied to bring forth my destruction shall be the one to set me free!” He smiles at D’Hoffrin, “Thank you for helping me see, friend.” When the other demon starts to reply, Klinghearth’s jaw dislocates and he swallows D’Hffrin whole. “Ahh… Demons always give me power.”





****~~~~TBC~~~~****





Jessica

Ah man, i love this fic! It's soooooooo cool! *jumps around clapping hands* You are such a brilliant writer, i could read your stuff all day forever! Your so funny, i swear, you have me in bits with some of the stuff, and you know all the characters so well. They way they'll react to something, their expressions, what they'll say, its' like watching it for real. It's definitely one of my favourites without a doubt, plus they'll be angst at some point, which i'm a huge sucker for!!



I've only gotten as far as chapter 9 at the moment but i wanted to let you know how WOW your fic is cos it's just..........wow!!



Oh, and i love Anna. She's so sweet and cute and adorable and selfless, always thinking about others.............reminds me of someone else! Her and Dawn together is perfect, there so right for each other and cute.



Can't believe the bomb shell!.............Giles has a daughter! Ohmygod!



Anyhow, i'm going now so i can finish the rest of the chapters and catch up. I'm so excited!

Jessica, this story is just great

You're an excellent writer, and Willow-Tara wedding

I love Anna, and Dawn in girl on girl action

is coming and Tara's mood pour Dawn.

Very scary that dream, it's hard to think of Tara as a bad girl.

I look forward to more, someone has to stop that Klinghearth,

I'm really enjoying this story.

Love,

Morning All! Well, even if it is not morning here, it is morning somewhere!



First of all, I'd like to thank the posters!



veiled isis moon : Thanks for you praise. It makes me all blush-y inside. I've been a Buffy cultist since the show first aired in '97. I own the DVD's and many of the novel's, magazines, etc. I'm officially obsessed. The only natural thing to to write about them. I'm glad y'all think I write like they should act!



wallflower0204 : Hooray for friends! Thanks for the post, and I'm glad everyone is responding to Anna in the way that I hoped they would. I always thought Tara as a baddie would be interesting... To say the least. You're right, someone should stop Klinghearth... But WHO?!



And now for an Update!



Chapter 14 'Dreamin' Again'



“What’s for breakfast,” Tara asks as she waddles into the kitchen. Anna smiles, “I’m glad you decided to come down, I was getting worried about you.” She places a huge plate of food in front of Tara. Tara picks up her fork and begins eating, “Did you do something new to the pancakes this morning, Anna? They taste very different.” Anna shrugs, “I might have.” Tara frowns at the blonde, “What did you put in them?” Anna asks her, “Do they taste bad?” When Tara shakes her head Anna continues, “then does it matter?”



Tara growls softly and Anna sighs, “All right. I added a few ingredients to the pancakes, but only because I was supposed to, Tara. It’s an old tradition that will help make sure you have an easy delivery.” Tara’s face melts into a smile, “Well, thank you for looking after me.” Anna nods, turning away from Tara, relief spilling across her face. Tara resumes eating and Anna starts cleaning the kitchen.



“How is Giles this morning?” Tara asks between bites. Anna rolls her eyes, “He’s fine. He left for the Magick Box early this mornin’, he said something about that freak ordering too much salamander eyes.” Tara laughs, “Because they are just as good as newt’s eyes.” Anna joins the laughter, “Rupert gave me the very same speech.” Dawn walks into the kitchen rubbing sleep from her eyes, “Can’t a girl get some rest in this house?” Anna stops laughing and looks at Dawn, “Hey, I didn’t know you stayed home today.” Dawn grins at her, “I sure did, grumpy-bottoms over there decided that I didn’t need to sleep last night.”



Tara frowns, “I am not grumpy.” Dawn nods, “Oh yes you are!” Tara looks over at Anna for help but Anna shrugs, “You kind of are, Darlin’. But we don’t really mind it.” Tara sets her glass down a little too hard and says, “I am NOT grumpy, guys!” Dawn clears her throat and announces, “Of course not.” Anna shakes her head, “Grumpy is not a word I would use to describe you at all.” Tara groans and waddles out of the kitchen, leaving the giggling girls behind. “I’m not grumpy,” she mumbles to herself as she goes.



*****



Anna jumps up on the island in the middle of the kitchen and asks, “How’s college?” Dawn shrugs, pulling the orange juice from the refrigerator. “It’s college, you know?” Anna frowns, “Um, no, I don’t.” Dawn smacks her forehead, “Of course you don’t; I am so insensitive!” Anna shakes her head, “Oh, it’s no big deal. Just tell me how your Psych 101 classes are going and we’ll call it even.”



Dawn smiles again, “Psych’s great! I mean, it’s nothing like the one Willow took ‘cause my professor is pretty much a grandma and not an evil scientist, but I like it.” Anna grins, “That’s great! What have you been up to; I haven’t seen you in over a week.” Dawn sighs, “I know, I’ve been busy what with school and grumpy Tara.” Anna nods, “I understand, I deal with grumpy Tara all day.”



“How has patrol been going,” Dawn asks Anna to fill the silence. Anna shrugs, “It’s been creepy quiet. I figure somethin’ is about to happen pretty soon.” Dawn nods, looking around the kitchen. Anna sighs loudly, peering out the door to look for Tara. She appears to be sleeping on the couch in the den. Dawn turns to look, “Does she always do this?” Anna shrugs, “Sleep all day?” When Dawn nods she continues, “Yeah, that’s pretty much it.” Dawn smiles, “Good.” Anna turns to look at Dawn only to be jumped by the pajama’d brunette. After breaking away from a searing kiss Dawn asks, “Bedroom?” Anna nods, leading Dawn quickly upstairs.



*********



“No, please Mistress, anything but THAT,” the poor lumpy minion yelps as a spike studded whip lashes out against his already tender flesh. “I will not have you speak out against me, animal,” Tara says menacingly. “Never-.” The minion starts to say but he is silenced by a brutal blow to his face that dislocates his jaw. “I have been told you idiot,” Tara thunders down on the ugly man-like creature. “Tara,” a female voice snaps out, raking the air with its coldness.



Tara rolls her eyes and turns to greet the woman behind the voice. “Can I help you,” Tara spits out condescendingly. “Well, yeah. You’re about to kill one of MY lumpy minions.” Tara laughs, “You’ve got hundreds ‘O magnificent one’ I think you can spare one to get my point across.” The woman runs her hand through her curly blonde hair, “And what is your point, Tara?” Tara grins before drawing the beautifully crafted broadsword from its sheath on her back. She stares as the light reflecting off the shiny metal for a second, then deftly slices off the minion’s head.



“Hey! That was MY minion,” the woman yells angrily. Tara swiftly turns around the sword stopping a hair’s length from the woman’s throat. “You know that puny piece of metal can’t do anything to me, Tara. I’m like, a God.” Tara slowly nods and lowers her sword, but before the woman can take another breath Tara is upon her, Matrix style. With a spinning kick Tara lands the woman flat on her back and the sword is back in Tara’s hands. Tara jumps on the God and the sword acts as a strangling device. “My point, dear Glory, is that you work for ME. It’s time your lumpy little hobbits with leprosy learned that little fact.”



Glory trembles beneath Tara, “I understand, Tara. They will know their place.” With one smooth move Tara is back on her feet and looking down at Glory. “They better, Glory. Or you will learn to do without them.” Glory climbs to her feet watching Tara’s departure. “You couldn’t possibly kill them all,” she calls after Tara. The brunette stops walking, looking back at Glory, “Couldn’t I?” With an evil grin, Tara disappears in a swirl of inky black smoke.



************



“One million nine hundred and sixty-seven,” Anna announces loudly. Dawn wrinkles her nose, “Liar!” Anna laughs softly, “How do you know? How many did you can’t.” Dawn thinks for a moment before she says, “I forgot – but it wasn’t nearly that many.”



Anna smiles broadly, “But you just said you didn’t remember! That means that you can’t know if I am lyin’ to you are I really counted One million seven hundred and twelve stars.” Dawn sits up quickly and says, “HA! Caught you in your own lie, Sweetie! The number changed.”



Anna says cooly, “No it didn’t.” Dawn starts to protest but the blonde’s lips are upon hers before she can get the first word out. When Anna pulls away, Dawn whispers, “Cheater.” Anna grins, “I’m your cheater.”



Dawn blushes, “Yep.” Anna lays her head on Dawn’s shoulder and says, “I love you.” Dawn gets the tingly feeling in her tummy that you get when your in love – the up and down roller coaster that makes you feel like you can’t breathe. She sighs as she whispers it back to her.



“How do you feel about kids?”



Anna gulps softly as she hears those words come out of her lover’s mouth. Anna tells her, “I love ‘em. Can’t wait for Tara’s bun to pop out so I can spoil her.” Dawn frowns, “What about kids with me?”



Just the Anna sees a shooting star and she points up at it. “HEY,” Dawn yells, suddenly very excited. Anna whispers, “It’s startin’.” The meteor shower the girls had came to watch began its dazzling light show. And Dawn’s question is forgotten.



“Make a wish,” Anna says softly in Dawn’s ear. The brunette closes her eyes and wishes with all of her heart. Anna smiles, watching Dawn’s face scrunch up and her brow furrow. When Dawn opens her eyes again she sees Anna staring at her. “What-.” Dawn shakes her head, “Nu-huh. Not gonna tell you.”



Anna smiles at Dawn, “I accept that.” Dawn closes her eyes and leans in to kiss Anna, the whole time her wish playing out in her mind.



‘I wish for you to be mine.’



***********





Jessica

Awwwww that was sweet. And grumpy Tara.







great job.





brittney









"Arn't you going to tell me to 'break a leg'?"

"Break 'em both." Amber Benson as Cheyenne in The Crush

It's early here in Texas, but I'm going to post an update before class.



amazonaa : I'm super glad you thought grumpy Tara was funny. Please keep reading!



Update!!!



Chapter 15 'Rocky Roads'



“Dawn, we shouldn’t be doin’ this,” Anna whispers between giggles and fiery kisses. Dawn opens the door to her bedroom and shoves Anna inside, “Why not? Tara’s asleep, I haven’t seen you in over a week, and we have the perfect opportunity. So shut up and kiss me.” Anna smiles, “So forceful!” Then Dawn is upon her, raising her shirt above her head and tossing it aside. Anna quickly does the same to Dawn, raising the pink pajama top and dropping it where they stand. “Mmm, I’ve missed this,” Dawn murmurs as Anna’s hands caress her side and naked back.



Anna nibbles on Dawn’s ear, “Me, too.” Dawn brings her hands up to squeeze Anna’s ass before bringing them to the front to unbutton the blonde’s tight jeans. Once the button is undone, Dawn shoves Anna on the bed and climbs seductively on top of her. “Should we skip the foreplay,” Dawn asks, her hands trailing lightly all over Anna's body. Anna starts to nod but Dawn brings her hand up between Anna’s thighs, stopping the flow of thought. As quickly as she brought it there, the hand disappears, “Or should I tease you for a while?” Anna groans lightly, but she will not be pushed into making the first move. They had played this game before.



Light touches and the occasional firm pressing are allowed, but anything big would result in starting all over again. Anna uses the tip of her tongue to trace a pattern of swirls on Dawn’s neck, nibbling sporadically. Anna bites down more firmly than before, causing Dawn to squeal quite loudly. Anna jumps a little, “Oh, Goddess! I’m sorry, baby. Did I hurt you?” Dawn shakes her head, “Hurt? No! You just surprised me.” She reaches over and turns her stereo on fairly loud. “What’s that for,” Anna asks, looking quizzically up at Dawn.



Dawn grins, “You’ve never been good at keeping quiet, Anna. I don’t want grumpy-bottoms down there to come busting in on us.” Anna starts to defend herself, “I am so to quiet when I need to be! What about that time at that Christmas dinner with your Dad and his skeezy secretary?” Dawn laughs before kissing her lightly on the nose, “You can be very quiet… When we’re in a bathroom. But in the bedroom?” To prove her point Dawn scoots down and plays with the stringy part of Anna’s panties. Anna whimpers at this slight gesture. “See, much with the noise.” Anna nods and turns up the stereo a little bit. “Might as well be prepared.”



Anna kisses Dawn deeply, leaning up to meet her. Just as she reaches up to undo Dawn’s bra, the bedroom door flies open and a very flushed red-head walks in. “Oh, Dear Lord,” Willow exclaims as she shields her eyes. Dawn squeals in surprise and Anna flushes a deep shade of red. “Dawnie,” Willow chastises, “We didn’t say you could blow off classes just so you could spend alone time with Anna.” Dawn groans, “Wil, spare me the lecture, all right. Just, get off my shirt so I can put it on.” Willow frowns before she looks down, “Oh.” She steps aside, “Don’t think you’re getting off so easily, Dawnie. We’ll have a nifty grown-up talk when you are fully clothed.” She looks at Anna who is hugging a pillow to her chest and trying to blend in with the wall, “You too, Anna.” With a stern look, Willow walks out of the room.



************



Willow walks back into the living room, “Here’s your tea, baby.” Tara grins, “Thanks.” She takes a small sip and makes a face, “Why is there lemon in here?” Willow jumps up, “Oh, I’m sorry, Tara! She hands Tara the mug she was about to drink out of and takes the one out of Tara’s hand. “I gave you the wrong mug, baby. Here is your honey tea with lots of milk.” Tara smiles, “Thank you, Willow.” Willow takes a calming drink of her tea, so glad that Tara hadn’t blown up at her.



“So, um, what were the girls doing,” Tara asks, flipping through the channels on the TV set. Willow shrugs, “Nothing, just listening to music.” Tara snaps her head over at Willow, “Liar!” The plant next to Willow bursts into flames, “Shit!” Anna rushes into the living room as the smoke detectors begin to go off. Willow starts to grab the fire extinguisher but Anna stops her, “I got it, Wil.” She closes her eyes and begins chanting in a foreign language, “Homumay, leenumay, eximay. Homumay, leenumay eximay.” With a popping sound, the fire is out and the plant looks as if it were never harmed.



Willow is still freaking out, “Does this happen often?” Tara ducks her head sheepishly, but Anna comes to her rescue, “Only every once in a while. I mean, not very often at all.” Tara smiles gently, “It’s okay, Anna.” Anna shrugs, “I mean, I don’t think it’s abnormal at all.” Dawn nods, “Yeah, plus we have the whole ‘make it disappear’ spell Anna does so well.” Willow groans, “That’s not what I asked! What… How often does this happen?” Tara sighs, “Once or twice a day.” Buffy comes in from the kitchen, “You set something on fire twice a day? Shouldn’t that be something we should look into?”



Willow nods, “Yeah, um, setting things on fire isn’t very safe. Especially for the baby.” Anna interjects, “Actually, it is entirely normal.” Buffy frowns, “How can it be?” Anna tries again, “And it’s not just fire. When she gets hot, the room changes temperature ‘cause she can cool it down.” Willow looks around the room, “That happens at night, but I just thought the A/C was wonky!” Buffy frowns again, “Maybe I should call Giles and get his opinion on this?”



Tara’s face falls, “I-I I’m sorry.” Dawn sticks up for her, “Guys! Back off, I mean she’s learning to use her Sorceress power thingies.” Anna nods, “Yeah, y’all just need to chill. I promise everythin’ is under control.” Willow looks at Tara’s face and sees the tears streaming down, “Oh, Tara – I didn’t mean to.” She starts to reach out, but Tara pulls away, “You think I’m some kind of monster don’t you?” Willow shakes her head, “No, baby, I don’t.” Tara nods, “You do! You’re a-afraid of me.” Willow again shakes her head, “No, I swear, Tara.” She reaches out again, but Tara draws back.



Anna places a soothing hand on Tara’s shoulder, “Calm down, Tara, Willow isn’t afraid of you.” The tears start falling harder and thunder crashes outside. Anna looks angrily at Willow and says, “Great! Now look what you did – we haven’t had a thunderstorm in a while.” Willow opens her mouth to say something but Dawn cuts her off, “Save it, Willow. You’ve caused enough damage today.” Anna kneels down in front of Tara, “Shh… It’s all right. I’m going to take you on a field trip okay? We’ll go get some ice cream and watch a movie. Just you and me, all right?”



“I look like a watermelon,” Tara mumbles quietly through her sniffles. Anna shakes her head, “Nah, only when you where that green and pink muumuu.” Tara laughs gently, “Are you sure?” Anna nods, “Very sure, Darlin’.” Tara smiles a little, “Can we get rocky road ice cream?” Anna grins, “A whole gallon if we have to!” Tara nods, “All right.” Anna helps her stand up, “That’s a girl.” Tara looks at Willow and Buffy who are watching her speechless before turning to Dawn, “Wanna come?” Dawn nods, “I’d love to Glenda. Let me grab our coats.” Tara waddles to the door and Anna calls out after her, “The Jeep is parked in the driveway and I’ll be right out.” Tara goes outside, careful to shut the door quietly behind her.



As soon as the door is closed Willow angrily whispers, “You should have told me!” Anna rolls her eyes, “So you would overreact like you are doing?” Willow shakes her head, “That is so dangerous for the baby! I mean we should-.” Anna interrupts her and finishes her sentence, “Bind her powers? Only if you want to leave her defenseless and end up putting her into more danger than you could ever protect her from!” Willow angrily continues, “But she could do something and hurt our baby!” Dawn calmly tells Willow, “Tara would never do anything to hurt the baby and you know that!”Anna scoffs, “You have no idea what’s going on in her body, Willow!” Willow laughs, “But you do?” Anna nods, “Yeah, I was born to know this, remember? I bet you didn’t know that she has her own force field, did ya?”



Willow shakes her head, “No, I didn’t know that.” Anna takes the coat Dawn offers her, “Well, she does. Maybe if you took a little time out of your busy schedule to talk to your wife and ask her about what goes on when you aren’t here, you would know things!” Dawn touches Anna’s arm, “Hey, let’s not do this.” Anna shrugs her hand off, “Why not? She needs to hear it, Dawn. Tara certainly won’t say anythin’.” Willow steps forward, “How dare you? You aren’t even family!” Anna’s face loses some colour, “You think I don’t know I’m not family? Believe me, it’s obvious, but, could you tell me just one thing Willow.” Willow nods, her anger still getting the better of her.



Anna looks Willow eye to eye and quietly asks, “What song does Tara sing to calm her down?” Willow asks, “Calm who down?” Anna swallows before answering, “The baby. What song does she sing to the baby?” Willow looks to Buffy for help, but Buffy just shrugs as if to say ‘Don’t ask me.’ She sighs, “I give up, Anna. You’ve made your point. What song does Tara sing.” Anna sighs, “Don’t ask me. If you want to know, ask your wife.”



**********



“What took so long,” Tara asks as Dawn and Anna climb into the Jeep. Anna smiles back at the very pregnant woman in her passenger seat, “We had to find you a coat that would go with your outfit!” Tara looks down at the brown leather coat in her hands, “Um, I’m wearing a pink shirt with elastic blue jeans.” Anna nods, “Yeah, and the brown goes really well with it, right Dawn?” She looks in the rear-view mirror at her girlfriend. Dawn smiles, “Totally.” Tara laughs, “You guys are sweet.”



She sighs and fiddles with the radio. Anna exchanges glances with Dawn before saying, “You know, I think Willow was just upset ‘cause you haven’t told her about the growth of your powers.” Tara grumbles, “Well, if she would ask or come home.” Anna gently lays her hand on Tara’s, “Sweetie, she loves you.” Tara nods, “I know she does.” Anna pulls into the ice cream parlor, “One gallon of rocky road coming up, Mistress Tara,” she quips smiling at Tara.



“Don’t call me that,” Tara quickly spits out, frightened. Anna soothes her, “It’s all right, Tara. I’m sorry if I upset you. Maybe we’ll need two gallons of ice cream.” Tara becomes placid once again, “Um, I don’t think so.” Dawn opens Tara’s car door and helps her out, “C’mon, Glenda – if we’re going to eat a whole gallon of ice cream and be home by bed time we need to get started.” Tara laughs, ”It’s funny how irony works, isn’t it. I’m about to be a mom and my bed time comes back.” Anna laughs, “Well, just be grateful you don’t have to stay up all night with the stuffy British guy and do research on absolutely nothin’.”



Tara shrugs, “You do have a point. Stuffy British guy doesn’t sound all that fun.” Anna rolls her eyes, “You don’t know the half of it! The fridge, totally empty! Unless you like butter and cucumber sandwiches.” Tara groans, “Stop! Disgusting!” Dawn laughs, “If she pukes, you’re cleaning it up!” Tara swats at Dawn, “I will not throw up!” Anna wipes her brow in mock relief, “Thank goodness! I was so not lookin’ forward to that.” Tara smiles and squeezes Anna’s hand, “I don’t care what Willow says, Anna. To me, you are family.”



Dawn’s mouth open in shock, “How’d you know?” Tara laughs, “Come on, Dawnie – do you really think I went straight out to the Jeep? Of course I stayed to listen.” Dawn walks over to the counter to order the ice cream. Tara smiles, “Thank you for sticking up for me in there.” Anna smiles, “Of course! I mean, I’ve grown kind of fond of you these last few months.” Tara grins, “I’m glad. You’ve grown on me, too.” She sighs, “I just wish Willow and Buffy weren’t so hard on you.” Anna sighs, “They don’t really trust me all that much, but what can you do?” Tara shrugs, “We’ll think of somethin’.” Anna laughs, “Did you just drop a ‘G’?” Tara groans in mock disgust, “I am so disappointed in myself! The horror!”



Dawn returns with the ice cream and sets a huge bowl in front of Tara, “Dig in!” Tara gulps, “Um, is all this for me?” Dawn shakes her head and smiles, “I’m pretty sure that sexy lady at the door will help you eat it.” Tara frowns and looks at the door to see Willow walking in, her face red from crying. “Tara,” Willow calls out sadly. Tara’s heart melts as she stands up, “I’m here, Wil.” Anna and Dawn move off and leave Willow and Tara alone.

*******



Jessica

Good morning Jessica, once again I'm with you updates, why isn't Willow spending more time with Tara?

I know she's busy, but is Tara!!

If Anna is a good girl and trying to help Tara, why Willow doesn't trust her?

You asked me who? I'd say the we know she's powerful, so she could feel that her mommy is in danger and somehow do something to protect her. crazy idea? you tell me.

Dawn and Anna are just

Ok, hope you have a nice day, and wanting more soon.

talk soon

Love,

Hi ya! Thanks for the updates, they are fantasic as usual! I really like Dawn and Anna in this fic (as well as W/T! ) Keep up the good work! Hannah

Hey all... I know it's late, but I couldn't get any sleep until I posted here. Lucky y'all.



Chapter 16 'Making up for Lost Time'



“Hey,” Willow says softly as she sits down across from Tara in the booth. Tara grins slightly, still nervous but wanting to work this out, “Hey, Wil.” Willow pokes at the ice cream, “I think you’re going to get a major belly-rumbling if you eat all this.” Tara laughs, “Well, maybe you should help me eat it?” Willow smiles, “You mean, you’ll let me?” Tara nods, “Yes.” Willow’s face shows definite relief as she picks up a spoon.



Willow starts to say something but she stops when she hears Dawn give a loud squeal, Willow starts to stand up but Tara stops her. “Wil, they’re just playing.” Willow frowns, “How do you know that? You can’t even see them.” Tara bites her lower lip before continuing, “Well, a really n-neat thing developed recently.” Willow nods, “Yeah?” Tara sighs, “I can sort of… Feel other people really well.” Willow frowns, “Like an Empath demon?”



Tara shakes her head, “No, not like the demon. But I do have the same type of powers.” Willow takes Tara’s hand, “What else is new?” Tara hides her face behind her hair, “Are you mad at me?” Willow quickly answers, “No, baby! I’m mad at me for not taking the time to ask you.” Tara looks up at Willow, “Really?” Willow sighs, “Really. Tell me about everything, Tara.”



Tara’s eyes get really big for a second, “This could take a while.” Willow smiles, “I’ve got forever.” Tara’s heart melts and she begins, “My emotions control everything right now, which s-sucks ‘cause I’m pregnant.” Willow nods to show that she is listening. “And, um, I’ve started to feel our girl’s powers, too.” Interested, “What do you mean?” Tara smiles, “When I get scared, or something threatens me a force field pops up around me. Or when she gets hungry food will appear out of no where.”



Willow’s jaw drops open, “Seriously?” Tara nods, “It’s, um, kind of cool.” Willow nods, “It sounds cool.” She takes a bite of rocky road, “Yum, chocolate and marshmallows. Great combination!” Tara nods, “I know… It’s her favorite. Except, she doesn’t like the nuts.” Willow laughs, “How can you tell?” Tara shows Willow her side of the bowl where the nuts have all moved to the bottom and says, “It’s just a guess, really.”



Tara smiles, looking at Willow, “Thanks for coming, Wil.” Willow smiles back at her, “I’m so sorry, baby. I know I haven’t been around as much as I should.” Tara puts her spoon down and takes Willow’s hand, “All is forgiven.” Willow shakes her head, “Nope. Not yet. I’ll just have to work really hard to make it up to you. From now on, you won’t be able to get rid of me.” Tara frowns, “But you have to work Wil.”



Willow shrugs, “I can take some time off for maternity leave, can’t I?” Tara laughs, “Um, you have to be the pregnant one for that, sweetie.” Willow ducks her head sheepishly, “Oh, yeah. Okay, but as soon as I’m off work, you’re stuck with me.” Tara smiles, “I’ll never be ‘stuck with you’. I chose you, remember?” Willow grins, “I remember.” Tara squeezes her hand one last time before asking, “Take me home? I’m very tired all of a sudden.” Willow nods, “Of course! We’re gone.” Tara sighs as Willow helps her to her feet. Dawn’s voice calls out from somewhere in the store, “Bye!”



Suddenly Willow remembers earlier that day and turns around, “Dawn, don’t stay out too late. You and I still need to have a talk.” Tara rolls her eyes, “Give them a break, do you remember how we were when we first started?” Willow nods, “But things were different then, Tara. You and me, we didn’t have to worry about anybody else, but Anna? She has the most important thing in the world to look after so she can’t just run off with Dawn every time it seems okay.” Tara asks, “What?” Willow sighs, “She has to look after you and our baby, Tara! She can’t just run off willy-nilly whenever she feels like it!” Tara kisses Willow’s forehead, “I’m going to be fine. Even if Anna leaves me for more than a minute.”



************



Willow snuggles closer to Tara in the bed, “I love you,” she whispers quietly in her ear. Tara grins sleepily, “I love you, too.” She gasps and grabs Willow’s hand, “She’s kicking, Wil.” Willow excited puts her hand on Tara’s belly. “Oh, wow,” Willow breathes as she feels the rapid bumping on her wife’s stomach. Tara smiles, “She’s hyper from all the sugar-y goodness.” Willow laughs, “Well, I would be, too!” Willow places her head next to Tara’s belly and begins to talk to the baby, “Hey, little one! Your mommies are trying to get some sleep!” Tara sighs contentedly and runs her hand over Willow’s head. Willow looks up at her, surprised to see a huge happy smile across Tara’s face. “What,” Willow asks.



“You’ve never talked to her before,” Tara says. Willow frowns, “Hmm… You’re right!” Willow kisses Tara’s stomach, “I’m going to love you with all my heart little one. You are going to be so spoiled and so smart. You’re going to have all you could ever want and I promise I will never let anything bad happen to you.” Tara smiles, “Aww, Willow!” Willow begins to run Tara’s tummy and snuggles up next to her. Tara sighs, “She’s calming down.” Willow nods, “I can tell.” Tara turns her head to kiss Willow’s forehead, “I think she likes it when you rub my belly.” Willow kisses Tara full on the mouth, “I hope so.” She smiles and whispers, “Good night, baby.” Tara nods and closes her eyes, “Good night, Wil.”



***********



“Damn it,” Glory yells as she throws a table against the wall. “O beautiful perfect magnificent one, please don’t worry so much. That awful, leather-bound beautiful-but not as beautiful as you Sorceress couldn’t raise a finger against you,” a lumpy minion tells her from his spot kneeling on the ground. Glory, turns and brings her nose to touch the minions, “Ralphy?” The minion nods and Glory continues, “Let me tell you a little secret, Ralph. You and me? We’re in danger, here. Real crazy danger. That’s not something I ever thought I would say, ‘cause hello – I’m a frickin’ GOD, but we are. That bitch Tara is going to destroy us if we don’t play things her way.”



Ralph gulps, “No, it cannot be so lovely, illuminating one.” Glory snorts and slaps the demon upside the head, “It is so! I am a God, the greatest of my mother’s children and here I am. Stuck under the thumb of a tiny Sorceress.” Ralph cowers down, “My humble apologies, O sexy, pretty one.” Glory sighs, “Oh, just forget it. You wouldn’t understand, you’re just a minion! I mean, you’ve never known what it was like to cast fear in the hearts of mortals and be the greatest evil for miles and miles. I just feel so… So used! And I feel so tiny!” She stands up and walks out of the room, leaving poor Ralph to cower in fear.



**********



Jessica

Yup, It's Saturday morning here in Texas and it is just as wonderful as a morning could be! Here for all you kittens is another update from my story.



Chapter 17 'One Month Later'



“Oh, Goddess,” Tara moans softly. Anna looks over at the blonde sitting next to her, “You all right, Tara?” Tara shrugs her shoulders, “I guess.” Anna sighs, reaching over to take Tara’s hand, “What’s up?” Tara groans, “Will this baby ever come out?” Anna looks at Tara for a second to figure out if she was serious, then can no longer control herself. She bursts into laughter, her face turning red and oxygen becoming an issue. Tara crosses her arms over her chest and says, “It’s not funny, Anna!” Anna stops laughing for a second to run her hand across Tara’s cheek, comforting her. “You are so cute when you pout, Moma.” Tara continues fuming for a minute before she melts, “Okay, it was a little funny.”



Anna scoots closer to Tara, wrapping her arms around the Sorceress’s waist. She rubs Tara’s belly for a second, “Hmm,” Anna says in a fake accent, “I do believe that ‘dis baby right in ‘ere will surface any day now. Or I could be berry berry wrong and she’ll stay in the woom forevah!” Tara rolls her eyes and laughs loudly. Anna leans down and places a small kiss on Tara’s stomach, “Come on, baby girl,” Anna whispers lightly, “We’re waiting to spoil you.” Tara grins, “She must be getting tired of hearing people beg her to come out.” Anna sits back up, “Maybe, but she’d better hurry up!”



Dawn walks into the house and calls out, “Anybody home? I come bringing donuts!” Tara quickly calls out, “We’re in the living room! Bring the donuts if you value your life!” Dawn comes rushing in and playfully says, “I have two dozen glazed, fried fat circles, don’t skin me alive please O powerful one!” Tara plays along, “If you give them to me now there will be no blood shed.” Dawn hands over the box and plops down on the couch next to Anna.



Tara opens the box and begins eating, “Oh, I’m sorry, did you girls want one?” Anna laughs and asks, “What, and risk losing a limb or two? You must be outside your ever lovin’ mind, Moma.” Dawn laughs, “I think we’re safe from the wrath of Moma Tara today. She seems to be in a particularly good mood.” Tara rolls her eyes, “Ha ha, very funny. I’m still in the room, you know.” Dawn stands up, “I’m going to go for a drink, does anybody want one?” Tara looks up at her and says, “A soda?” Anna clears her throat, “She wants a water.” Tara frowns, “Spoil my fun.” Anna grins, “But you’ll thank me tonight when you can sleep.” Dawn smiles at the two bickering women and goes to the kitchen.



***********



“I have found the way to destruction,” the lower being growls to his master from in the shadows. Klinghearth smiles, “Tell me, Lucien, what have you discovered?” The minion walks forward and into the light, he stands nearly eight feet tall with his curved antlers dripping with a slimy mess while his many arms fidget nervously about him. Lucien giggles nervously, “Master Klinghearth, sir. I can tell you how to merge our world with the one of the Sorceress.” Klinghearth growls, “That’s not that I wanted, Lucien.”



Lucien cowers quickly, “I know Master, that’s why I killed the demon who told me that!” Klinghearth nods, “But you know what I want to hear?” Lucien smiles, “Yes, Master!” Klinghearth backhands him, “Then stop wasting my time! Tell me how to bring the Sorceress to our world.” Lucien picks himself up off the floor and whispers, “A spell.” Klinghearth kicks the demon in the throat and growls loudly, “I know that it requires a spell, idiot.”



Lucien pulls a piece of paper from his coat and thrusts it at Klinghearth. “This spell, Master. It must be performed by the Sorceress in the other world.” Klinghearth lifts the demon up off his feet and begins to choke him, “And how do I get this to the Sorceress?” Lucien struggles to speak but he cannot. Klinghearth releases his hold on him and asks again, “How do I get this to her?” Lucien rubs his throat and whimpers out, “A simple astral spell, Master.”



Klinghearth smiles evilly, “Thank you for your loyalty, Lucien, but I won’t be needing your services any longer.” Lucien wipes his brow, “Thank you Master, I’ve really got to be getting back to the wife and kids.” Klinghearth laughs heartily, “Oh, you won’t be leaving me Lucien. I need your essence to help me prepare the spell.” With that said he thrusts his arm out and captures Lucien’s heart in his hand, pulling it out so he can eat it whole.



Klinghearth turns to the shadows, “Get rid of this mess,” he growls to the darkness. Three vampires snake out of the darkness and carry the demon carcass out of the cave. Klinghearth looks down at the paper in his hand, “I will have my freedom. And this Sorceress shall bring it to me.” His eyes then grow a little as he makes a fist and hits himself firmly in the chest. “BEEEELCHHH,” he lets out a loud burp. He makes a face, “Yuck, Plinguppy demon aftertaste.”



********



“God, Sunnydale has been dead for months, Anna!” Buffy says as she kicks around a can down the sidewalk. Anna nods, “Yeah I know! When I was told to come to the Hellmouth I never thought I’d get bored by the lack of demon activity.” Buffy grunts and kicks the can over to Anna. Anna smiles and kicks it back saying, “Wanna play a game of poor kid’s soccer?” Buffy shrugs, “What’s that?”



Anna laughs, “Oh, yeah! You were never a poor kid!” She intercepts Buffy’s can and kicks it back past Buffy’s right leg. Buffy grins, “I know what you mean now. Play soccer with the can?” Anna nods and tries to stop the can from shooting past her as Buffy kicks it. Anna stops it and sends it flying back at her. Buffy grunts as she kicks the can as hard as she can and sends it soaring high over Anna’s head. “Whoo, Score one for Buffy,” Buffy yells into the night. Anna laughs at her, “Yeah, you might have scored, but you lost us our ball!”



Just then Xander walks up holding his head and carrying the empty, smashed coke can. “Did you guys mean to lose this on my head?” Buffy runs over to him and says, “Oh, Xander, I’m so sorry!” Buffy takes his hand away from his head and says, “You’re bleeding!” Anna rolls her eyes and walks over to him, “Let me take it, Loser,” she says affectionately. Xander shakes his head, “No, I’m a big strong man, I don’t need to have my battle wounds absorbed.”



Anya snorts, walking up behind him, “Some battle, Xander Harris!” Xander rolls his eyes, “I was joking, Ahn.” Anya pushes Buffy lightly out of the way saying, “Only my hands can touch his bleeding sores.” Xander nods, “That’s right!” Anna scoffs and makes a small noise sounding like a whip cracking and does the hand motions. Buffy laughs, “The girl’s right, Xan, you’re pretty whipped.” Anya looks back and says, “Hello, Anaphrodite. How have you been? You haven’t been talking to your Mother lately have you?” Anna rolls her eyes, “No, can’t say that I’ve seen her since Willow and Tara’s weddin’, Anyanka. Would you please move so I can heal Xander’s head wound?”



Anya frowns, “You like girls right?” Buffy rolls her eyes, “Give it up, Anya. Anna has been dating Dawn for a year and a half now. She’s not going to go for Xander." Anya shrugs, “Her sister went after my last boyfriend." Anna groans, “For the last time, I DIDN’T EVEN KNOW MY SISTER!” Xander nods, “Yeah, and your last boyfriend was a chaos demon!” Anya struggles mentally for a second before saying, “All right. You can heal his squishy head, but I’m watching you so don’t try anything!”



Anna brings her hand up and lightly touches Xander’s head. After a second Xander sighs happily and his body relaxes. Anna takes her hand off of Xander's head and makes a face. Buffy smiles, “All right, we’ve got one last cemetery to check out.” Anna nods, “Let’s head out.”



**********



“Mmm,” Tara moans as she feels her lover’s touch caressing her body. “Oh, Goddess, Willow,” she murmurs softly, “Harder.” Willow smiles, “I don’t want to hurt you my sweet.” Tara shakes her head, “You won’t, I promise.” Willow shrugs, “Okay.” She uses her hands and kneads Tara’s shoulders a little harder than what she was. “Is this all right, baby,” Willow asks Tara softly.



Tara smiles, “I haven’t felt this relaxed in three months.” Willow Kisses Tara’s neck lightly, “I’m glad I could help with that baby.” After a few more minutes of massaging Tara whispers, “Will you come lay down with me?” Willow stops and tells Tara, “Anything you want baby.” Willow and Tara crawl into bed and Willow rubs Tara’s tummy.



“I can’t wait until she comes out, Tara,” Willow whispers almost too quiet to hear. Tara nods, “Neither can I. She’ll have your eyes.” Willow sits up to look Tara in the eye, “How do you know?” Tara smiles, “Because I see her in my dreams.” Willow smiles too, “What else do you see?” Tara’s eyes cloud over as she remembers her vivid, scary dreams. “N-nothing else,” she stammers out. Willow squeezes her hand, “Do you still have those nightmares you can’t remember?” Tara nods, “They really freak me out, Wil.”



Willow pulls Tara closer, “Nothing will ever hurt you as long as I love you, Tara.” Tara sighs happily, “I know. I feel so safe with you, Willow. Never leave me?” Willow nods, “Never ever will I leave you, Tara Rosenberg-Maclay.”



Tara smiles, “Good! I don’t know what I would do without you, Willow.” Willow sighs, “You’ll never have to find out, baby.” Tara snuggles closer to Willow, her eyelids drooping closed. Just then Willow hears the front door open and Buffy yell out, “Willow? Dawn? We need you!” Willow kisses Tara’s head and whispers I’ll be right back.” Tara shakes her head, “I’m coming, too.”



Willow doesn’t have time to argue and takes Tara down the stairs. “Holy Cheese Biscuits, Buff!” Willow exclaims, “What in the frilly heck happened to Anna?” Buffy lays the blonde down on the floor of the kitchen, running to find some gauze to fill a gaping wound in her stomach. Anna coughs violently, blood spewing out of her mouth as she does. She breathes, but the sound is wet and ragged. Dawn comes running in the kitchen asking, “What about Anna?” She sees her girlfriend’s white shirt covered in blood and falls to her knees beside her. Anna smiles a little when she sees Dawn and whispers, “I’m fine.”



“How did this happen, Buffy?” Willow asks, lifting the shirt up to reveal what looks like a stab wound. As Xander hands Willow a section of what looks like to be antlers he tells her, “I’ll explain. But we need some virginal saliva.”



***********



“Anna, you take those two, Xander and Anya, you take that one and these three are mine,” Buffy yells as she runs up on a group of vampires. As quickly as she gives the assignments, they are carried out. Xander and Anya work to kill their vamp and Anna works on beating the piss out of hers. “How come I got the fat vamps,” Anna yells over to Buffy. Buffy shrugs, “I don’t like being sat on!” Anya looks over at them and asks, “Is this really the time for jokes?”



Buffy and Anna each stake a vampire at the same time and look to Anya who is watching her vamp strangle Xander. Anna immediately starts working on her second vampire, thrusting blows one right after the other. Buffy drops her weapon and yells, ”I need a stake!” Within seconds Anna tosses two stakes at Buffy who catches them both and dusts her two remain vampires together.



Buffy grunts, “Thanks,” and tosses one of them back to Anna who has ended up sitting on the fat vampire instead of the big guy crushing her. Anna catches it and brings the stake down into the blubber of the demon. Her stake disappears into the vamp’s chest but still doesn’t reach the heart. “Sick,” Anna yells out as she sticks her hand in following the stake, “Lay off the Twinkies.” Buffy makes a face as Anna pulls her hand out and drops at least three feet to the ground beneath her.



“A little help here,” Xander says through clenched teeth. Buffy rolls her eyes and helps out Anya and Xander by staking their vamp for them. “You know,” Buffy comments softly, “You guys really don’t have to help out on patrol every night. Anna and I can handle it.” Xander shrugs, “But we’ve always helped, Buff!” Buffy starts to say something but Anna catches her arm, “Hey, our vamps had a mission.”



Buffy turns to look at her, “What?” Anna points and Buffy follows her finger. “A big ol’ Plinguppy demon’s body over there, do you see it?” Buffy sighs, “Plinguppy?” Anna explains as the group walks over to inspect the demon, “Big race of demons with funky antlers that hold a special medicine in them that can heal mortal wounds faster than any other known substance when mixed with a virgin’s saliva. They’re normally a very peaceful race that follow orders without questions.” Buffy shrugs, “All right. He’s huge! What were the vamps doing with him?” Anna squats down next to him, noticing his vacant chest.



Anya groans, “Oh, he smells fairly grotesque!” Anna places her hands on both sides of the demon’s head and a tiny yellow light begins to shine through her hands. “What are you doing?” Buffy yells at her, pulling her backwards. Anna shrugs Buffy off, “I have a few tricks up my sleeve and I want to know how he died so I can see if we can still use his antlers.” Anya shrugs, “Why? I mean if someone gets mortally wounded you’ll just absorb it and they’ll live.” Anna sighs, ‘Because I can’t absorb mortal wounds without taking the risk that I will die, instead. And my destiny isn’t to die for some average human.”



Buffy sighs, “Hurry, then. I don’t like this.” Anna returns her hands and begins all over again. The demon’s eyes pop open, causing the group to take a step back. Anna tells them, “It’s fine, he’s still dead.” She pauses for a minute the continues, “But, his powers are still being used. I can still feel his essence.” The glowing of her hands grows brighter and her eyes turn and inky black. “The magicks,” Anya explains to no one in particular.



“Klinghearth,” the demon says, animated even though he lay dead. “The great and powerful demon Klinghearth; the demon that will bring destruction to this world and many more if given the chance. He lay in wait to be freed by a powerful Sorceress. One so powerful that her name is feared in over a hundred worlds. The Sorceress that keeps a Witch that strikes fear in the hearts of all she meets as a pet. The Sorceress that tamed the wild God and uses her for her own pleasures.” Anna begins to droops some, her eyes close and Buffy starts to pull her off but Anya stops her, “Leave her, Buffy. We need to know this.”



“Klinghearth will bring this Sorceress here to free him, and you will all tremble in her awesome power. None of you will stop her. Not the Slayer.” Buffy’s mouth drops open and she starts to protest but the demon continues, “Not the demon,” Anya makes a face at the demon. “Not the boy.” Xander shrugs as if to say, ‘I’m not worried about it.’ Lucien’s body continues, “Not the Daughter, it is not her destiny.”



“Who will stop her,” Buffy asks the body. A few seconds of silence and the voice continues, “She will not be stopped. You will know pain. You will know terror. And then you will know death. She will destroy your world.” Anna’s eyes open and tears of blood stream down her cheeks as she lets out a ghostly scream, the sound ringing in the ears of those around her. Buffy tackles her, making the girl release her magickal hold on the Plinguppy demon.



Anna returns to her normal self as soon as the contact is broken, the screaming stops and the bloods stops flowing out of her eyes. “Holy shit, Anna, what did you see,” Xander asks as he kneels down beside her. Anna takes a deep breath and looks over at Buffy. When she gets the approval from the Slayer she tells them, “I saw the end of the world.”



Xander shrugs it off like it’s nothing, “Oh, that? We’ve all seen the end of the world at least five or six times before.” Anna shakes her head, “This time it’s different, Xander.” Buffy starts to ask what she means, but a bolt of lightning streaks down from the sky and pierces Anna in the stomach. The others are sent flying backwards at least thirty feet.



Buffy quickly returns to her feet and runs back to Anna, shocked to find that the girl is not burned, but a sword is sticking out of her abdomen. “Anna,” Buffy asks softly, scared that the force killed the girl. Anna coughs violently, looking at Buffy with determined eyes. “Pull it out,” Anna orders. Buffy shakes her head, “I don’t think that is such a good idea, Anna.” Anna groans, “Either you do it, or I do it myself.” Buffy sighs, “It’ll be easier for me to do it.” Xander and Anya return, limping slightly. “Damn, Buff,” Xander comments as Buffy yanks the sword from Anna.



Anna doesn’t make a sound, even though it hurts like hell. The blood begins flowing out of her like someone opened a river. Buffy looks at the sword for a second before handing it to Xander, “Cut off some of that antler and meet me back at my house.” Anya grabs Buffy’s arm, “Where are you going?” Buffy scoops Anna up into her arms, “I’m taking Anna home.”



*********



Jessica

Oh my God! Oh my God! Oh my God! What's going? to happen?





More soon please.







brittney







"Arn't you going to tell me to 'break a leg'?"

"Break 'em both." Amber Benson as Cheyenne in The Crush

I am glad Will and Tara are talking now thats important, I am a lil concerned about how Anna got impaled with a sword and who exactly sent it. and hum I wonder if Will and Tara can stop the spell or will vamp Sorceress Tara get to come play.

I am really enjoying this fics and the quick updates are a huge bonus thanks

Arron

She walks in beauty, Like the night of cloudless climes and starry skies; And all that's best of dark and bright; Meet in her aspect, and her eyes. ~ by Byron ~

Hello Jessica,



I'm not gone say much that will spoil the fun for the other readers but, you said you where busy with the sequel. Well I read it and it's wonderful so:



ANNOUNCEMENT:

LISTEN UP KITTENS THIS STORY GETS BETTER AND BETTER IT'S LIKE CANDY YOU CAN'T GET ENOUGH OF IT.



DreamLover

Sequel?! Woohoo!

Howdy! How is everyone today? I got in a fight with the sun and lost, today - so, I'll be insdie the rest of this weekend working on the infamous sequel and posting as much of this story as humanly possible.



Now for replies to all of my new friends!



amazonaa : You'll figure out what is going to happen, I promise you that much.



Arron CFF : I'm glad the updates coming as quickly as they are is good. I thought it might be bad, but yay - it's not. Maybe Mistress Tara will join our scoobies living in Sunnydale, but maybe she won't. Read to find out!



DreamLover : I'm glad you like the sequel and have read it. I'm really nervous about writing the sequel... I'd love thoughts or ideas from people.



Willowlovestara : Yes, there is a sequel, but like I said, I'm nervous about it. You'll just have to finish this story and read the sequel for yourself.



And now to the UPDATE



Chapter 18 'Mistress Tara and Love?'



“You are telling me that a sword came crashing down from the sky and just happened to land on her stomach?” Willow asks Xander as she extracts the gooey mess from the brown and tan antler. Xander shakes his head, “No, a bolt of friggin’ lightning landed on her stomach – the sword appeared later.” Willow shrugs, “Whatever, what am I supposed to do with this stuff?”



Xander sighs, “Um, Anna said something about mixing it with a virgin’s saliva and it can heal mortal wounds?” Willow looks at Xander and asks, “Know any virgins?” Xander points down at Dawn, “Our very own Dawnie!” Dawn looks up from her place holding Anna’s hand and shakes her head. Xander’s eyes pop open and he sputters, “Dawnie? You’ve-. WHEN?!” Dawn shoots him a look, and Tara comes to her rescue, “Time and place, Xander.”



Willow sighs, “This is of no use to me!” Tara places a calming hand on her witch’s shoulder, “Willow, they mean conventional virgin; I’ll work.” Willow raises her eyebrows, “Conventional virgin, eh? You’re pretty pregnant… Do you really think you’ll work.” Anna struggles to sit up, “It doesn’t matter. I’m already startin’ to heal. It’ll take a few days, but I’ll live. Right now we have to get ready for the apocalypse.” Buffy shakes her head, “No, I need you at 100 % if we are facing the end of the world. With Spike gone I need all the help I can get.”



“We have a few days, Buffy. I’ll be damn near healed by then anyway,” Anna tells her, grimacing as she tries once again to sit up. Buffy groans, “That is a nasty, Anna.” She looks around the room, “Somebody cover it up or something!” Tara rolls her eyes and hands Dawn a roll of gauze and some messy brown goo, “This will numb some of the pain,” Tara explains. Dawn smiles gratefully up at Tara and begins to spread the goo on Anna’s tummy.



Anna winces at the pressure but continues talking, “Look, y’all heard what the Plinguppy demon said. The end of the world is comin’ and there is no way that I’m goin’ down without one hell of a fight.” Anya rolls her eyes, “Oh, yes. Big talk from the cripple. Who happens to be the daughter of THE GODDESS! She knows that nothing will happen to her, that’s why - .” Anna raises her hand to silence Anya, and it works; stopping her mid sentence.



Anna quietly continues, “We’re goin’ to need some serious back up for this fight.” Buffy sighs, “How do you know we can trust this dead demon guy?” Anna whispers, “The dead make great seers.” Buffy shrugs and says, “I’ll bite. What exactly did you see?” Anna starts to speak but Dawn stops her, “Buffy, we need to talk about this in the morning.” Tara agrees with her, “Dawn’s right; Anna needs rest to heal.” Exasperated Buffy tells them all, “The apocalypse is coming, and you want to go to bed?” Tara sighs, “Buffy, the apocalypse will still be coming in the morning, and we can all figure out how to stop it if we get some sleep.” Willow calmly tells Buffy, “It’s no use arguing with everyone Buff.” Buffy shakes her head, but doesn’t argue.



**************



“Thanks for making up the couch for me,” Anna says, straining to keep her voice normal. “I’m sorry it’s all we have downstairs,” Dawn tells Anna quietly. Tara walks over to the girls, “I’m heading up to bed.” Anna nods, “You need plenty of rest to counteract all of the excitement today.” Tara nods and wanders upstairs. Willow comes by and says, “If you girls need something tonight, I won’t be sleeping.” Dawn squeezes Willow’s hand, “Just take care of Tara.” Willow smiles, “Promise.”



Willow walks upstairs with her laptop and sets it up on the bed next to Tara. “Try and get some rest,” Willow tells her wife. Tara frowns, “Won’t you try?” Willow shakes her head, “I need to find out what’s going on. I’ll see if I can find anything on the ‘Net that has to do with the apocalypse and our baby.” Tara’s frown deepens, “Do you think she’s meant to stop one before she’s born?”



Willow shrugs, “You know how screwy the people who write these things are. They’ll come up with any reason to cause drama.” Tara smiles a little, “You could be right.” Willow warmly kisses the top of Tara’s head, “Get some rest, baby.” Tara obediently closes her eyes.



Willow sighs as she turns on her faithful computer and begins searching. She clicks on her favorite techno-pagan site and types in ‘recent apocalypse attempts’. She is shocked when the results bring up 6,329 related sites. She sighs and types in, ‘apocalypse attempts in the last three days’. This time the results only bring up 215 choices. She bites her lower lip and clicks on the first one.



“Hmm…” She murmurs as she reads about Africans who were trying to release disease infested monkeys on the people of London. She shakes her head and clicks on the second one. Three witches in the Cayman Islands tried to summon ‘Mikhail the Angel of Death’ and bring about the full apocalypse, but were stopped when one of their daughters walked in on them. Willow continues reading about the recent apocalypse attempts and how they were thwarted. Soon, it is dawn and the sun streams brightly into her room.



She groans and turns her computer off, sleep making her body ache for the covers. She starts to crawl under them when Tara stirs, her eyes opening. “Morning,” Tara tells Willow softly. Willow nods, “I guess you could say that.” Tara laughs, “Smart ass.” Willow just grins. Tara worms her way out of bed, her huge belly making it hard for her to get up. Willow’s grin falls as she asks, “Are you getting up?” Tara nods, “Yes, but you have to get some sleep.” Willow is thinking about arguing but decides that it is not worth it and gives in. Her eyes already closing. Tara leaves the room and goes downstairs.



She finds Anna in the kitchen on the phone while Dawn stands worriedly beside her. Tara raises her eyebrow at Dawn and the girl mouths ‘Giles.’ Tara nods and continues her walk to the refrigerator. After a few seconds Anna hangs up the phone and says, “Giles is on his way over here. He said he had some news.” Tara nods, “He usually does.” Anna limps slowly to the island in the middle of the kitchen and sits carefully down on one of the stools sitting there.



Tara reaches out and touches Anna’s arm, “How are you doing?” Anna shrugs carefully, “I’ll live.” Dawn clears her throat, “I think I should change the bandages, what do you say Tara?” Tara nods, “We should keep it as clean as possible. Don’t want it healing with all kinds of dirt and grime in it.” Anna makes a face as she looks at Tara and exclaims, “Thanks for that, really.” Tara grins slowly while Dawn unwrappes the gauze and says, “Not to mention all the germs already growing in there. Everybody touched you. Hell, you even touched that demon!”



Anna sticks her tongue out at Tara, “I’m not gonna let you goad me into makin’ a big scene.” Just then Dawn yells out, “God! It’s all green and festering!” Anna freaks out as she looks down and screams, “WHAT?” She sees that her wound looks normal and turns around angrily facing Dawn, “It is not!” Dawn shrugs, “But you thought it was.” Anna grumpily grabs the gauze out of Dawn’s hand and stalks off to the bathroom downstairs. Dawn looks over at Tara, “Hungry?”



Tara nods, “Famished.” Dawn grins, “Peanut-butter and Banana quesadillas it is!” Tara makes a face and starts to decline when Anna walks back in. “I’ve already started breakfast.” Dawn shakes her head, “You’re hurt.” Anna nods, “Yeah, but cookin’ won’t make me hurt anymore.” Tara also protests, “But you shouldn’t even be up and around yet.” Anna sighs and still walks over to the stove, “I’m fine. Y’all just worry about keepin’ that baby safe while Buffy and I fight whatever’s comin’.”



**********



“Shut up,” Glory tells the demon who appeared out of nowhere. The demon growls, “Do you not know who I am, mortal?” Glory laughs, “You have a few things to learn, Bub. First, I wasn’t actually telling you to shut up. Second, I know who you are. I just don’t care. Third, I’m not a fricken mortal. I am a God.” Klinghearth announces, “I’m going to bring about your salvation.” Glory rolls her eyes, “Whatever, tiny demon.” She walks away only to be faced with the demon yet again.



“Neat trick. Who are you?” He smiles, “I am Klinghearth, and I can get you out of here. If only you help me find the Sorceress.” Glory laughs, “You want Mistress Tara?” When Klinghearth nods Glory laughs again, “Yeah, o-kay.” He frowns, “What?” Glory shakes her head, “Mistress Tara despises demons. She’ll do anything to rid herself of them.” Klinghearth frowns, “What do you mean? I saw a vicious killer.” Glory nods, “Oh, she is. She has tortured hundreds of thousands of demons and left them to die feeling nothing but pain and humiliation. She has destroyed one hell dimension after another. I mean, this girl has reeked more havoc and caused more carnage than I have ever seen in my immortal life.” Klinghearth still does not understand, “What do you mean?” Glory sighs, “Even for a demon you are pretty dense.” Klinghearth growls, “But she is supposed to be a vicious killer!” Glory laughs, “She is! Where have you been?”



Klinghearth frowns, “But you say she kills demons.” Glory nods, “Yeah, so?” Klinghearth shakes his head, “I don’t need a demon-hunter!” Glory rolls her eyes, “I never said she was a demon-hunter, stupid.” Klinghearth looks up, “Huh?” Glory groans, “She kills demons ‘cause she likes the way they squirm more. At least, most of ‘em do. A few squishy demons are worse than humans.” Klinghearth smiles, “So, if I wanted her to help me rule a world, she would do it.” The wheels in Glory’s tiny brain start turning. “Sure, she’d help. But I want to help, too. You might need the help of a God, don’t you think?”



Klinghearth nods, “I like your quick thinking.” Glory smiles, “Good.” Klinghearth cocks his head, “But how do I know what you say about the Sorceress is true?” Glory smiles, “I’ll show you!” She turns on her heels and spies a minion, “Hey, YOU!” The minion falls to her feet, “O, my Stunning, Sweet, Magnificent Glorificus, how may I serve you?” Glory smiles, “Mistress Tara wants you in her chambers. She has a special mission for you.” The minion’s mouth drops open, “Surely you jest, O Glowing Wonderful one. Mistress Tara doesn’t allow even you to enter her private chambers.” Glory snaps out, “What did I say, minion? Do as you are told or I’ll kill you!”



*********



Willow stands before the mirror, checking herself for the hundredth time. She absently runs her hand through her hair and smoothes down her tight black leather shirt. “Mistress will be so pleased,” she murmurs to herself distractedly. Just then the chamber door opens and Willow lowers herself to one knee, humbly acknowledging the entrance. Mistress Tara grins at Willow and shuts the door firmly behind her, whispering, “It’s okay, baby. Stand up.”



Willow quickly stands up, rushing to meet Tara’s embrace. Willow begins to cry and Tara comforts her, “Shh, stop your tears, my Willow. Tell me why you are so suddenly sad.” Willow immediately stops crying and tells Tara, “I don’t like this hiding of our love. It is love, Tara. I am not just your toy and you know that! Why do I still have to play the role?” Tara sighs, “It is the only way I can protect you, Willow.” Willow shakes her head, “No, it’s not! I can take care of myself, Mistress!”



Tara smiles, “I know you can take care of yourself, baby.” She wraps her arms lovingly around Willow’s waist and kisses her neck warmly, leading her over to the frilly bed with pink and lavender lace. “I love today’s decorations, Willow,” Tara comments softly. Willow, still pouting, says, “Thanks. I wanted to surprise you.” Tara nods, “You did. Did you want to play softly today?” Willow nods, “Yes, Mistress.” Tara sighs, “I am not your Mistress in this room; we are equals in here. Unless I’m playing the role of Mistress.”



Willow smiles, “We are?” Tara nods, “I have told you countless times.” Willow smiles, “Play with me?” Tara returns the smile, “Whatever you wish.” Willow sighs happily and lays down on the bed with Tara, snuggling closer and kissing her softly. After a few minutes of snuggling Tara asks, “What game are we going to be playing?” Willow nibbles on Tara’s ear before saying, “This is the game.” Tara sits up, “It is?” Willow nods, “Yes. We’re playing the game where I can just lay down with you and we are both perfectly content. The game where I love you, and you love me back.”



Tara crawls over the bed to kiss Willow deeply, “We never have to play a game for that, my Willow.” Willow grins and kisses her back, happiness swarming around the air. Her hands roam to remove a few leather straps, knowing she has a hundred or so more to remove. A loud knock sounds at the door, Tara’s eyes turning from their beautiful blue to a blood red. She thunders out, “I AM NEVER TO BE DISTURBED WHEN IN MY CHAMBERS!”



She flies out of bed, quite literally, and the door explodes in a million pieces, revealing a cowering minion. “How dare you,” Tara seethes, her magick sending waves across the room. The minion cowers down, “I apologize, M-m-mistress.” Tara silences her with a flick of her wrist, “No.” Tara narrows her eyes and the minion soars backwards and slams against the wall, where vines shoot out and hold her captive there. Tara growls, “I am never to be disturbed in my chambers.” She turns and sees many other minions watching and says, “Let this be a lesson to you all.”



With that said Tara floats over to the minion and asks, “Do you know what it feels like to be burned from the inside out? To have you intestines cooked and your stomach boiling over?” When the minion shakes her head Tara explains, “You will.” With an evil grin Tara sends little balls of shining light out of her hand and down the minion’s throat. Slowly, the minion begins to scream, long loud agonizing screams. And smoke begins to rise off the pour lumpy minion. Suddenly, the minion bursts into flames and Tara gives a satisfied smile.



*******



Jessica

Ha, in my world there is always time for more updates. And Dancing bananas reign supreme!



Chapter 19 'S&M'



“Where were we,” Tara asks Willow, waving her hand and a door appearing where the other one shattered. Willow smiles devilishly, “I was undressing you strap by strap before we were so rudely interrupted.” Tara nods, “It was rude of that thing wasn’t it? I don’t believe we will ever be disturbed again though, my sweet.” Willow shakes her head, walking seductively over to her mistress, “No. Everyone out there now knows that the price for interrupting one of our sexcapades is death.” Tara smiles, “Not just any death, a painful. Torturous. Squirming. Cruel. Brutal. Merciless, death.” She separates her words each one of them exciting her lover Willow just a little bit more.



Willow can no longer control her arousal, she kisses Tara with a fire not shown much by any lover known to man. Her hands working feverishly to remove the straps of Tara’s leather bodice. When she finds that the progress she makes is not fast enough, Willow uses a spell that sends the leather strips flying off of Tara. Some of the tails of the leather end up whipping Tara lightly across the back, causing the Sorceress to moan in pleasure. Willow is satisfied with her choice and leans in, shoving Tara roughly down on the bed.



“What happened to playing nice,” Tara asks in a mock concerned voice. Willow grins widely, “It got boring.” She brings her mouth down to rest on Tara’s neck as she bites forcefully. Tara growls and rakes her nails across Willow’s leather-clad back, shredding the tough fabric like it was nothing, slightly scratching Willow’s skin too. Willow arches her back into the pressure, enjoying the way her flesh splits and the blood runs down her back in tiny rivers.



Willow kisses Tara neck and bites it afterwards. She starts a trail of this down the neck and onto the shoulder. Tara nods, “I understand, baby. I’ve never been one for playing good.” Willow stops her kissing, interested in what Tara is saying. “Have you always been like this,” Willow asks, careful to not sound too interested. Tara asks, “Like what?” Willow shrugs, “A powerful Sorceress who destroys everything who gets in her way.”



Tara shakes her head, “No. I used to be different.” Tara raises her hand and touches Willow’s temple, sending a memory through magick. The memory is of Tara looking a few years younger standing with a woman in a wheelchair and brushing a paint mare. Willow can hear Tara’s laughter as she talks with the quiet woman. Willow sits up rolling off of Tara slightly, “How long ago was that? What happened?” Tara sighs, “You know we don’t talk about my past, Willow.” Willow nods, “I know, Tara. I just…. I don’t know.” Tara asks her, “How long have you been with me?” Willow thinks for a second before announcing, “Five years.” Tara nods, “How many worlds have we destroyed in that five years?” Willow shrugs, “Dozens?” Tara smiles, “46 world, Willow. 46 worlds in five years. Does my past really matter that much?”



Willow looks away, afraid to say what she really feels. Tara asks her, “Why do you want to know, Willow?” Willow shrugs, unsure of the answer herself. Tara places her hand on Willow’s cheek, “It is interesting to you?” Willow frowns and Tara explains, “My past? How I became what I am?” Willow nods, “Yes.” Tara sighs, wanting to please Willow and whispers, “All right. We can talk about my past.” Willow smiles, “Honestly?” When Tara nods Willow asks, “How long ago were you that girl with the horse?” Tara closes her eyes, thinking. “635 years, 10 months, 26 days, and fourteen hours.” Willow’s jaw drops open, “635 years? You are 635 years old?” Tara shakes her head and responds, “652, nearly 653.” Willow scoffs, “How does that work? You don’t look a day over 17.” Tara reopens her eyes and tells Willow, “Rage is a great motivator. It can drive a person to power.”



Willow nods, “But can it stop you from aging?” Tara smiles, “No, but it can point out the river in time and allow you to tap into it.” Willow pushes a stray strand of Tara’s hair out of her eyes and asks her, “What made you decide to do that?” Tara looks to the ceiling and says, “My mother’s death.” Willow bites her lower lip before bravely asking, “How did she die?” Tara’s eyes cloud over as she tells Willow, “My father beat her to death with a horse whip.” Willow’s eyes fill with sympathy as she moves to comfort Tara. Tara stiffens as she cocks her head sideways, “Do not waste your sympathy,” she says softly, not cruelly, “I have long forgotten how to feel pain over her death.”



Willow nods, “I guess you would.” After a few seconds she asks, “How?” Tara raises her eyebrows, “Hundreds of years of maiming and torturing kind of limits your emotions.” Willow laughs, but stops when she realizes that Tara is being serious. “Um, yeah that would do it.” Tara moves to kiss Willow but Willow pulls back. Tara nods, “I understand. You want to talk some more?” Willow shrugs, “Actually I do, but if you want to sleep we can do that, too.” Tara shakes her head, “I’ll try to answer any questions you have for me.”



******MEANWHILE*******



“Well, Klingy, Mistress Tara won’t leave this hellish dimension without her precious Willow-pet.” Glory tells Klinghearth, obviously getting bored with that demon. Klinghearth growls becoming impatient with Glory and tells her, “So we’ll bring the witch along for the ride, what is the big problem?” Glory sighs, “Fine. All right. I’ll call Mistress Tara over here tomorrow and we’ll get this spell thing cracked and be in your dimension before you know it.” Klinghearth nods, “Thank you, Glorificus.”



******BACK TO OUR REGURALLY SCHEDUALED LOVERS*******



“How did you find so much hatred and rage?” Willow asks Tara, trying to imagine what would take the most beautiful, sweet girl in the world and turn her into a ruthless killer that struck fear in the hearts of so many worlds. Willow stops her thinking with another thought, ‘How do I know that she was the sweetest girl in the world? I just saw a tiny glimpse of the old Tara. I’m going crazy with this love stuff. Especially because she doesn’t really love me. I don’t think she can. God I hope she doesn’t hear my babble-thoughts.’



Tara swallows some air before telling Willow, “I watched as my Father killed my Mother because she was sick. My mother was dying of cancer, and my Father decided that she was just wasting our time and that she was lazy. So he killed her; while I watched.” She takes a breath before continuing, “So I killed him.” Willow’s jaw drops open and she sputters out, “How?” Tara smiles, remembering every last detail of that day. The day she finally got her revenge on the man that not only beat her for every last step she took, but used her as an unwilling slave.



“The sun came up eight minutes late that day,” Tara tells Willow, her voice distant. Willow gasps as sh sees a clear picture of what Tara says in her mind. “How?” Tara smiles, “Magick, lover.” Willow ducks her head sheepishly and listens as Tara contines. “Dad blamed me for it, saying the burial ritual I performed for Mother caused the delay. He raised his arm to strike me, but I blocked him. I had never seen him so surprised. His face purpled as he tried again and I caught his hand in mine and twisted it behind his back.” Willow sits forward, hearing the tale with eager ears. She watches in her mind as Tara struggles against a man.



“I shoved him to the ground and fought him with everything I had. But it wasn’t enough. He had soon gained the upper-hand and was reaching to strangle me when time stood still and an Angel appeared to me.” Willow’s eyebrows rose and Tara explained, “I thought it was an Angel at the time.” Willow nods and Tara continues.



“This beautiful creature told me that I could win this fight and my father would be dead if only I asked for his blessing.” Willow nods eagerly, her childish tendencies seeping through. Tara grins and tells her, “I wasn’t a fool. I could smell his power and took his offer, not bothering to weigh the consequences. He disappeared and I won the fight. My father was dead, killed by my own two hands. I sat there and choked every bit of life out of him until blood squirted out of his eyes and the bones in his neck felt like talcum powder.” Willow tries not to show her surprise at the fire and venom behind Tara’s words. The things she sees shock her because it is not her Mistress doing them, but a young Tara full of life and GOOD.



Tara nods, “My first kill. Still the one I hold in my heart above all others.” Willow clears her throat, “What about the consequences?” Tara takes a quick breath before saying, “The so called Angel who helped me took me prisoner and held me captive for the next eighty-six years.” Willow shakes her head, “That’s where you learned to tap into the river of time?” Tara nods, “He taught me in the bowels of his home. His own personal Hell he called it.” Willow asks, “Were your tortured?” Tara nods, “They had the most delicious tortures there, Willow. Although I didn’t think so at the time.”



Willow raises her eyebrows and Tara explains, “No, it took me a while to learn to enjoy pain the way I do. Nearly eighty-six years to learn.” Willow can see her Tara being tortured cruely, wheels and ropes, knives and whips. Terrified, Willow asks, “Then what happened? How did you escape?” Tara shakes her head, “My sweet, naïve Willow. I did not escape his Hell. I inherited it.” Astonished Willow can only open and close her mouth, sounds not even coming through. Tara smiles, “It came to be that I longed for the nights when He would come and torture me because His minions never did it right. When I started to beg for it, He removed me from the dungeon and married me.”



Now Willow can speak and she spits out, “What?!” Tara nods, “I became His bride, and in doing so received my powers from the Goddess and learned every bit of magick He knew. I was stronger than he anticipated and I eventually overthrew him. I was his wife and lover for fourteen years. I spent the first one-hundred years of my immortal life with Him, and I spent the next three hundred trying to rule exactly like he taught me.”



Willow hugs a pillow to her chest and waits for Tara to continue. Tara closes her eyes for a second, feeling drained from talking so much about things she has never allowed out of the hollow of her mind. She continues with a steady breath, “I was a great, evil being. Torturing all that was good and righteous. Doctors, priests, even decent human beings. Then I discovered demons and the human race has never been the same. I abandoned all that He taught me for more pleasurable things. Instead of being as He made me, I became what I was supposed to be. I am the thing that evil fears. I am not good in any way, for to be good one must have a soul and WANT to be good.” Willow nods and Tara whispers her last words, “And I have never wanted to be good.”



Willow bites her lower lip and asks, “That is your past?” Tara nods, “My past, no. How I came to be your ‘Mistress Tara’, yes. I feel my past comes before everything that I have told you today, Willow.” Willow nods, feeling a little confused and more than a little overwhelmed by everything. Tara smiles softly before whispering, “You have many things to think about, little one.” She kisses Willow’s forehead and whispers, “And I have business to attend to. Sleep well, for I feel we will be travelling a long distance very soon.”



**********

Hope that clears up a few things...



Jessica

Kind of clears up some things, but still a little..........Wow!! Ya know.





Great job. More soon, please.





brittney







"Arn't you going to tell me to 'break a leg'?"

"Break 'em both." Amber Benson as Cheyenne in The Crush.

Nervous? Don't be nervous I wish I can write like you do. I got enough imagination but if you can't write it down it's just lost talent. I would like to help you but where do i post it on the board? or some where els.



I think I know what you gone do with dawn I like that idea.

I'd like to start out with teh dancing banana because it makes me happy.



amazonaa: I'm glad it clears a FEW things up. Hopefully it will clear up a lot more when this story is finished.



dreamlover: If you are serious about wanting to help, go to extraflamey and send me a message. I'll get back to you and we'll talk through e-mails. I don't like posting my e-mail for all to see. I get some crazy stuff that way.



UPDATES! (I love that guy!)



Chapter 20 'Snuggles'



“Morning, baby,” Willow whispers in her wife’s ear. Tara grins, “Good morning, Willow. Did you sleep okay?” Willow tells her, “I slept very good. Did you?” Tara nods, “One of the best nights I’ve had.” Willow smiles, “Good news, baby. Do you want something to eat?”



Tara shakes her head, “Not yet, let me wake up first.” Willow nods, “Okay. Do you need anything? Water?” Tara quietly tells her, “I want early morning snuggles. That’s about it.” Willow cuddles up close to her, “I can do that.”



A knock sounds at the door and Willow groans, ‘Who is it?” Buffy opens the door and says, “Dawn didn’t come home last night.” Willow looks at Tara before telling Buffy, “Dawn is in college now.”



Buffy frowns, “But she didn’t come home.” Willow asks, “Was there ever a night where you didn’t come back to the dorm?” Buffy nods, “I stayed out a lot. But that was different. I usually stayed with Riley…” She trails off and says, “She’s with Anna, huh?”



Tara and Willow don’t say anything and Buffy tells them, “Sorry to wake you guys up. I should have came to this conclusion on my own.” Buffy closes the door and Tara giggles softly, “She really doesn’t know Dawn is nearly 20, does she?” Buffy opens the door again, “Is it all right to hate Anna?”



************



Dawn opens her eyes and starts to stretch, disturbing the blonde sleeping on her stomach. “Mmm,” Anna mumbles, “Go back to sleep, it’s too early to be wakin’ up.” Dawn smiles, “It’s nine, Anna.” Anna shakes her head, “As long as I can’t see the clock it’s too early.”



Dawn laughs, “I have to get to class, babe.” Anna slowly opens one eye to look at Dawn and sighs, “All right. We’ll get up.” She sits up and stretches, her shirt raising to expose much of her belly and back. Dawn wraps her arms around her, “A few more minutes of snuggles won’t kill us.”



Anna grins and crashes back into the bed, “Ten more minutes of sleep?” Dawn bites her lower lip and begins tracing patterns on her lover’s back. Anna sighs happily, “Can we do every mornin’ like this?” Dawn lays her head down on the pillow next to Anna and whispers, “Yes.”



Anna turns to face her, opening her eyes and looking deep into Dawn’s. She softly tells Dawn, “I wasn’t supposed to have this.” Dawn asks her in return, “What weren’t you supposed to have?”



Anna kisses Dawn lightly on the lips before saying, “You. Us. This.” Dawn asks her, “Why not?” Anna smiles sadly, “My life was never mine, Dawn. I have a destiny to fulfill; a baby to protect. I’m not supposed to fall in love; I’m not supposed to find someone I want to spend my life with; because, I don’t have a life.”



Dawn caresses her face, “But you do. You have free will and emotions that cannot be controlled by some Goddess. News flash, Anna: you did fall in love. And guess what; I love you back.”



Anna allows one tear to fall down her face before she kisses Dawn warmly, her hand resting on Dawn’s side. “Mmm,” Dawn whispers as she pulls away from the kiss, “You always taste so good.” Anna smiles and tells Dawn, “If I taste good, it’s only because I taste like you.”



Dawn’s mouth falls open as she swats at her mischievous lover. Anna laughs and pulls Dawn in for a hug. “You can’t be mad at me for sayin’ a thing like that,” Anna tells her happily. Dawn smiles, “I know, but it’s kind of fun to pretend.” Anna laughs, “I can think of a few things that are more fun to pretend.”



Dawn kisses Anna softly before saying, “Like what?” Anna shrugs, “We can pretend that you don’t have school today.” Dawn snuggles closer to Anna in the bed, “I like this game,” Dawn whispers in her ear. She kisses Anna’s cheek and other body parts randomly. Anna smiles and brings Dawn’s mouth to hers, a sweet kiss happening between them.



Then Anna wraps her arms around Dawn, cuddles being the main attraction of the morning. “Anna,” Dawn asks after a second. “Yeah,” Anna responds. “Have you ever wondered what could happen between us if your life wasn’t bound to serve Willow and Tara?”



Anna nods, “Every day for the last year and a half.” Dawn continues, “What have you come up with?” Anna sighs, “Do you really wanna do this Dawn?” Dawn looks at her, “I need to hear, Anna.” Anna kisses her softly, “Okay, babe. You got it.”



Anna sits up, taking Dawn’s hand in hers and begins telling her, “If I had been born without purpose I would be yours forever. I wouldn’t worry that at any time I would lose you. If I had a choice as to whether or not I could love somebody, I would love you. I love you more than I care to admit to anyone, and that’s a sin Dawn. I am not to fall in love!”



Anna takes a breath, smoothing back a piece of Dawn’s hair and tells her, “But I have. I’ve fallen in love with you, Dawn Elizabeth Summers.” She closes her eyes and whispers, “If I could, I would ask you to marry me right now.”



Dawn’s jaw drops open as she hears what Anna said. Her heart beats a little faster and her tummy does flips like she has never felt before. Before she can even think the word is out of her mouth, “Yes.”



Anna opens her eyes to look at Dawn and asks, “Yes?” Dawn’s eyes brim with tears as she repeats, “Yes!” Anna’s whole face lights up as she wraps her arms tightly around Dawn and begins placing short kisses all over the brunette.



*************



Tara rolls her eyes and motions for Buffy to come in. “No,” Buffy tells hr, “I won’t bother you guys anymore.” Tara calls after her, “Buffy, it’s all right! We’ve been meaning to talk to you about it anyway.” Buffy sticks her head back in, “Are you sure?” Willow smiles, “Of course. Plenty of room in this big ol’ bed.” Buffy smiles back and comes in, sitting on the edge of the two’s bed. Tara looks at Buffy, “Do you really hate Anna?”



Buffy shakes her head, “I can’t really. I mean, the girl is so NICE! And I can really tell how much she cares about Dawn. She makes Dawn happy like she’s never been before.” Tara nods, “Dawn’s been really happy, Buffy. Happier than she’s been since Mrs. Summers died.” Buffy agrees with Tara but doesn’t say anything. Willow asks her, “What’s the problem then?” Buffy tells them, “I don’t want Dawn getting hurt.” Tara smiles, “Anna couldn’t hurt Dawn, Buffy. I know her, and she is so in love with your sister.”



Buffy nods, “But you know who she is; what she stands for; what her mission is. Her destiny in life is to basically be your babysitter and die doing it.” Tara shakes her head, “That may be what the Watcher’s Council told us a year ago when we last heard from them, but they are just a cabinet of stupid men. I don’t believe it, Buffy. Anna is a person, no matter what blood she has in her veins.” Willow agrees, “I’ll admit that I didn’t like her at first, and I’m still not her biggest fan.” She pauses and Buffy prompts her, “But?”



Willow grins sheepishly, “I thought something would come to me, but it hasn’t.” Tara shoots her a look, “I think the only reason I’ve made it through this pregnancy halfway sane is because of that girl.” Willow nods, “I know, Tara. She also helped me realize a few of the mistakes I was making as your wife, so she can’t be all that bad.” Buffy nods, “I know she’s not bad, guys. We’ve patrolled together for over a year and I trust her to watch my back; I trust her with my life. She’s smart and quick. She knows how to handle herself in a fight and not get in over her head. But it’s dangerous.”



Tara understands, “You don’t want Dawn to get attached and then Anna have an accident.” Buffy tells Tara, “Exactly!” Tara takes Buffy’s hand and gently tells her, “Dawn is already attached, sweetie. I think we’d all better accept this.” She looks at Willow with a special, ’pay attention to me,’ look. Willow nods and so does Buffy. Tara smiles, Besides, “I think it’s great!” Buffy asks, “Why?” Tara grins, “Dawn is like my own little sister, and I love Anna to pieces. I’m just thankful that they both found someone worthy to love.”



Buffy grumbles, ”Yeah, yeah. I know it’s great for both of them…” Willow laughs out, “HA! I know what’s so wrong with Anna!” Buffy looks at Willow like she has grown a second head, ”What?” Willow spills her secret, “You don’t hate Anna! You’re just jealous that Dawn has a big time love and you don’t.” Buffy tries to protest but Tara interrupts, “Yeah, that makes perfect sense. I mean, you are the older sister, Buffy, so you should have the house with the picket fence and little rugrats running around but you are no where near it and Dawn is.”



Buffy sticks out her lower lip in a pout, “I am not jealous of Dawn’s relationship because I don’t have one.” Tara smiles at Willow and doesn’t say anything in return to Buffy. “I’m NOT,” Buffy insists, looking from Willow to Tara. They still don’t say anything so Buffy tells them, “You guys SUCK!”

*********



Jessica

I've read some of the sequel and it is brilliant, so please don't be nervous about it! Oh and I love the update btw! Hannah.

willowlovestara: Thanks for saying you like the sequel. I'll try and keep writing for those who say they love it. Although... It might be very very sad - just can't seem to write the happy love stories right now.



On to an Update! (warning, almost to the end... Only 7 more chapters to go)



Chapter 21 'Enter Ophelia'



Willow sits up in bed, grumpy from having been woken up so early. “It’s 4 in the morning, who could be at the door now,” Tara murmurs, rubbing her belly to try and calm the wiggling baby inside. Willow shrugs, “It wouldn’t be a monster. They don’t knock.” Tara nods, sleeping coming back to her brain. “Buffy will get it,” she whispers softly to Willow.



Willow snuggles close to Tara, “Of course.”



~DING DONG DING DONG~



Tara’s eyes pop open and she tries to scoot out of bed. “Where are you going, baby,” Willow asks. Tara asks, “Can you give me a push?” Willow nods and helps Tara stand up, “But where are you going?” Tara looks back at Willow, “I’m going to answer the damn door!”



Willow winces and tells Tara, “Okay, I’ll come with you, baby.” Tara leads Willow downstairs, slowly.



~DING DONG DING DONG~



Tara’s eyes flash with fire and she yells, “HOLD YOUR DAMN HORSES! I’M PREGNANT AND COMING!” Willow places a calming hand on Tara’s shoulder, “Shh, it’s all right.” Tara looks at Willow but chooses not to say anything.



She finally makes it down the stairs and to the door. She throws it open, a mad mom look on her face, “What do you want – ANGEL!” She forgets her anger and throws her arms around the dark man standing in front of her. Willow hurries up behind Tara and throws her arms around the vampire as well.



“Hey, Tara,” Angel says kindly. He affectionately hugs her back before embracing Willow. “I’m sorry to wake you up, but I didn’t want to be caught in the sun, you know?” Tara motions for him to come in, “Don’t worry about it.”



“What brings you to Sunnydale,” Willow asks him as they travel into the living room. Angel looks behind him, “I sort of brought someone with me.” Willow frowns, “A girlfriend? Angel, I really don’t think Buffy would – Your girlfriend is FAITH?!”



Willow’s eyes grow wide as she stares at the person who once kidnapped her and held a knife to her throat. Angel shakes his head, “She’s not my girlfriend Willow. Giles wanted more protection for the big day because of the hour of weakness thing. Faith’s reformed and wants to help protect your baby.” Faith remains on the porch with her head held down.



Willow is about the fly off the handle at Angel when Tara asks, “Hour of weakness? What did you mean by that?” Willow looks at Tara a second before remembering what Angel said. Angel frowns, “You know. For nearly an hour after you give birth your powers will be held in check until the baby gets hers. You both will be defenseless against whatever might come.”



Tara begins to feel faint as she asks, “Why wasn’t I told about this? Who all knew but didn’t tell me?” Willow sighs, “Just Giles, Buffy and I knew. I didn’t want to worry you.” Tara nods, “Were you ever going to tell me?” Willow shrugs, “I was hoping I wouldn’t have to.” She then turns to Angel, “You brought FAITH?!”



Angel smiles gently, “She’s the best one to help, Wil. You know that. No one is better to have around than a Slayer when you need to protect someone.” Tara decides that she can forgive Willow for now. “We’ll talk in the morning, Willow.” She turns to Angel, “We have a room in the basement you can use to sleep for a while.”



Angel starts to mention Faith but Tara is way ahead of him, “Faith, I’ll make up the couch for you. Please come in.” Faith is shocked as she moves from the porch and into the house. Willow starts to protest, “Tara, this is unbelievable. How can you-.”



Tara cuts her off, “Willow, she’s here to protect my baby. The least I can do is offer her the couch.” She gives Faith a small smile and introduces herself, “Hello, I’m Tara.” Faith smiles in return, “Yeah, um, we met once.” Tara nods, “I remember. You weren’t yourself at the time.” Willow groans in frustration and storms off to the kitchen.



“Don’t worry about Willow,” Tara says gently, “She’ll come around.” Faith shrugs, “Red’s never been apart of my fan club. I don’t expect anything less of her now.” She takes the sheets from Tara and says, “Let me do that.” Tara agrees with one condition, “Let me make you something to eat.”



Faith laughs, “Now we’re talking.” She finishes putting sheets on the couch and follows Tara into the kitchen. Willow sees them coming and ducks out of there faster than you can say rabbit. Tara tells Faith, “I feel like grilled cheese sandwiches and french-fries; How about you?” Faith nods, “That sounds pretty cool.” Angel comes in, seeing the preparations of an early morning feast and asks, “Anything for me to eat?”



Tara frowns as she opens the fridge, “I don’t know… Oh, here’s some blood.” She hands it to Angel and tells him, “There is no telling how long that has been in there, so be careful.” Angel sniffs it and says, “Calf’s blood. About eight days old. It’s been in the fridge for six.” Faith and Tara make a face at him and he grins apologetically. Tara thinks to herself, ‘Why did we have blood? Spike’s been gone for three years now.’



Faith is looking around the kitchen and she spies a note from Buffy and Willow on the fridge, ‘Dawn, if you and Anna get hungry order a pizza or something. Take care of Tara for us, Love Buffy and Wil.’ Faith frowns, “How many people live here now?”



Tara looks up from the stove and says, “Um, well. There’s me and Willow. Buffy and Dawn. Anna stays over a lot when I don’t feel good or when she wants to spend time with Dawn.” Faith frowns, “Who’s Dawn? Who’s Anna?” Tara sets down her spatula, “What do you mean?”



Faith can sense she’s made a mistake but can’t figure out how to fix it, “I don’t know Dawn or Anna.” Tara steps closer, “How can you not know Dawn?” Angel places his hand on Tara’s shoulder, “I don’t have the memories either, Tara.”



Tara looks at him, “What?” Angel nods, “The monks never gave us memories of her.” Tara protests, “But she remembers you.” Angel frowns, “I know.” Tara shakes her head, “How devastating.” Faith clears her throat, “Not to ruin the moment here, but I still don’t know what’s going on.”



Tara flips over the grilled cheese and walks to the fridge and pulls off a picture. She shows it to Faith and says, “That is Dawn; she’s Buffy’s little sister.” Faith rolls her eyes, “Now I know you’re busting my balls, Blondie. B doesn’t have a little sister.” Angel nods, “Yes, she does.”



Tara explains the story about the monks and Glory and how Spike gave up his life in order to save Dawn. By the time that the story is finished, all of the food is ready and they sit down to eat it. Faith looks from him to Tara and asks, “Seriously?” Angel nods, “Seriously, Faith.” Tara then explains Anna to Faith, the whole thing. Both Dawn’s girlfriend and protector of the baby roles.



Faith’s eye grow wide, “How many lesbians live here?” Tara smirks and thinks, ‘Counting you?’ Just as Tara is about to take a bite of her grilled cheese she hears the front door open. ‘Buffy will freak when she sees Faith,’ Tara thinks to herself. Angel tells Tara, “Buffy knew we were coming.” Tara breathes a tiny sigh of relief. Then she hears someone kick a stair and she rolls her eyes, “It’s Dawn.”



She sees Anna walk into the kitchen and freeze, “Um, I just wanted to turn the light out, but since y’all are in here I’ll just be on my way.” Anna starts to leave but sees Tara eating unhealthy food and chastises her, “Tara! You know better than to subject your baby to that.” Tara’s face falls as Anna takes her plate away and she sticks out her lower lip in a pout.



Anna returns with a bowl of fresh fruit and says, “If you’re gonna snack, eat the fruit. It’ll go bad if you don’t.” Faith raises her eyebrows at the little blonde, wondering who she is. Anna leaves the kitchen and Faith comments, “It’s a mini-mom.” Tara nods as she begins eating her fruit.



“Wait a minute,” Faith exclaims, “You’re the adult here – why does she get to tell you what to eat?” Tara smiles, “Because she takes care of me.” Faith frowns, “Who is she?” Angel explains, “That’s who we were telling you about. That’s the Daughter.” Faith raises her eyebrows, “That little wisp of a girl is who I’m supposed to work with? She’s the daughter of the ‘All powerful Goddess.’ Ha,” she looks around, “You’re kidding, right?”



********



Angel went to bed after sunrise and Faith sent Tara up to bed not too long after. She was dead tired, too but wanted to wait up to see Buffy. She just wanted a little glimpse before falling asleep. It didn’t quite work out that was. She was fast asleep on the couch by the time that Buffy walked in the front door.



‘Faith’s on my couch,’ Buffy registered as she staggered in the door, holding her arm and stomach. She looks toward the kitchen and thinks, ‘Angel is probably in my basement.’ She crashes down on the stairs as the world becomes black she thinks, ‘Damn. Bloodstains are impossible to get out of the carpet.’



********



Not thirty seconds after Buffy crashes to the ground Anna is running towards her, as is Willow and Dawn and Faith. Anna reaches her first and scoops her up without any hesitation. “I need her in the kitchen,” Anna barks out as Faith moves to grab Buffy away from her.



Sensing power, Faith backs off and Anna rushes Buffy to the kitchen. Without a word Dawn starts helping Anna tear Buffy’s shirt off. “It’s long, but a surface wound; she’s gonna be all right in a minute,” Anna announces to all present. Faith scoffs, “Then why is she passed out?” Anna shakes her head, “Doesn’t matter, she’ll be fine in a second.”



Dawn sees Faith for the first time and fear crosses her face, “What is she doing here,” she asks in a high pitch voice. Willow sighs, “She’s here to help us with the baby.” Dawn screeches, “After what she did?” Willow nods, “I know, Dawnie.” Dawn grabs a kitchen knife and lunges at Faith, growling. Faith frowns, “Hey, chill out kid. I’m on your side.” She catches Dawn’s hands and knocks the knife down. “Red, could you help me out here?” Anna clears her throat, “Dawn, can we stop with the reunion for two minutes and heal Buffy?”



Dawn quickly gives up her fight against Faith and walks to Anna’s side. Faith is confused and nudges Willow, “Slayers can’t heal as fast as little one over there keeps saying.” Willow remembers that Faith doesn’t know Anna and whispers, “This is neat; watch.” Anna reaches out and touches Buffy’s stomach a tiny white light shining over the area.



“What the-.” Faith says in awe as she watches the skin grow up to meet the skin on the other side. The wound on Buffy’s arm does the same. Anna’s muscles tense up and she makes a tiny sound, “Ahh.”



“Hey,” Faith says walking closer, “How the hell did you do that?” Anna doesn’t respond. Buffy opens her eyes and sees everyone staring at her.



“Hey,” she tells them. Her eyes meet Faith’s for a second before roaming to her sister’s and then to Anna’s. “You healed me,” Buffy angrily asks the blonde. Dawn scoffs, “Calm down, Buffy. Jeez.” Buffy smacks her forehead, “Damn it, Anna! I was attacked by an Umapod; they have a poisonous toxin deadly to everyone but a Slayer.”



Anna still hasn’t responded and Buffy flashes her hand over the blonde’s eyes; she remains comatose. Angel comes up from the basement, “How’s a guy supposed to sleep with all this racket going on?” Buffy looks at him and says, “Angel?” Dawn punches her in the arm, “Hello – my girlfriend is sitting like a statue in our kitchen. Make moon eyes at the vampire later.”



Angel steps carefully over there, “What’s wrong with her? She was fine last night.” Buffy sighs, “She healed me when I was scratched by an Umapod.” Angel smiles, “Oh, I can fix that. Where is she open?” Buffy frowns, “Huh?” Dawn sighs and unbuttons Anna’ night-shirt, “He means where did she get hurt.”



Buffy nods, “I knew that.” Dawn shows Angel Anna’s stomach and her arm and he proceeds to slit his wrist. “What the hell are you doing, Angel,” Faith asks for everyone in the room. Angel begins dropping his blood on Anna’s wounds, “Vampire blood counteracts the virus.”



Dawn quickly asks, “That won’t turn her into a vampire?” Angel shakes his head, “Nah. It’ll give her quite a buzz when she wakes up though. She’ll have a lot of energy.” Angel winks at Dawn, “You’ll have a lot of fun with it.” Buffy swats him, “Don’t encourage her!”



Anna’s sores start closing up, slowly. Faith looks around the room and asks, “Is no one going to explain to me what the hell is going on? I’m here to protect a baby that will save mankind, right. This little blonde demi-goddess over here can heal people by touching them, and you can see her skin growing back a thousand times faster than it ought to. Earlier the little brunette one over here tried to stab me with a kitchen knife and I don’t know who she is.”



Tara walks into the kitchen, “Man, we really need to get me an elevator or something. It takes twenty minutes just to get down the stairs.” She sees the scene in front of her and her brow furrows, “Well, I think I’ve missed a lot already.” She doesn’t know what to think about the group in front of her. Anna’s a statue and Angel is bleeding on her. Buffy is sitting on the floor with no shirt on. Dawn is glaring at Faith with such hatred and Faith is so confused it’s not even funny.



“Pancakes?”



******



OPS! I posted 22 before I posted 21... I'm fixing it... SOrry guys! TOTAL BLONDE MOMENT!

Jessica

Edited by: beautifultrgdy at: 9/5/04 2:56 pm

Hey y'all.

It's Sunday before Labor day. I've got a nasty sunburn and I'm annoyed with the site Extraflamey. I'm going to post a few more chapters here hoping that I can finish this story and start posting the sequel here. Hope y'all don't mind! (I love that guy)



Chapter 23 'Aye Aye Captain'



“Whoa,” Angel says as he sits on the couch, shaking his head. Faith nods next to him, “I hear ya, Angel. That was a wicked insane ride right there. The Goddess was here. I mean, the fucking ‘Holier than thou’ Goddess.” Buffy joins them with their awe filled conversation, “Wow.”



Anna frowns, becoming annoyed at those around her, ”Does anybody remember the apocalypse warnin’?” They all slowly nod and she sighs, “Buffy, tell us what to do to get ready.” When Buffy doesn’t say anything Anna tells her, “Okay; I think we should have a few guardin’ Tara and the baby. I obviously can’t be one of them because I’m to use the crazy lightnin’ sword on this Sorceress. Maybe Dawn and Willow could hold down that end? Possibly Papa Giles?” Buffy nods distractedly, “Yeah, that sounds great, Anna.”



She turns to look at Faith and Angel, “My kitchen was filthy. The Goddess came to my house and my kitchen was filthy.” Angel nods, “That’s got to suck.” Faith shrugs, “Can’t She see your kitchen all the time? I mean, She said She was always watching Anna, and Anna is always in the kitchen from what you guys tell me.”



Buffy’s jaw drops open, “She does?! Oh, that sucks.” Dawn giggles, “You guys are acting too weird. It’s no big deal, the Goddess coming here and all.” Buffy raises her eyebrows, “No?” Dawn shrugs, “No.” Buffy frowns, “Why not?” Dawn tells her, “I don’t know.” She looks at Anna and asks, “Why am I not freaking out like them?”



Anna smiles, “She touched you; that has something to do with the ‘holy crap’ attitude. Not to mention the fact that She welcomed you into her family. That makes you one of Hers; untouchable practically.” Buffy’s eyes widen, “Seriously? Are you two sort of married now? ‘Cause I never agreed to that…” Dawn shakes her head, “No, we aren’t married yet,” she looks at Anna, “Are we?”



Anna laughs, “Sort of, but no. We still have to go through the whole ritual. All this means is Moma approves of you.” She hears noise coming from upstairs and tells them, “Willow and Tara are on their way down.” Buffy clears her throat, and says in her best, ‘I’m the boss voice’, “Nobody say anything to Tara about this.”



Anna scoffs, “No way! You’re off your rocker if you think I’m keepin’ somethin’ like this from her, Buffy. She deserves to know that her family’s life is in danger.” Buffy frowns, “It won’t do anything but upset her. Especially because she found out about the ‘hour of weakness’ thing.”



Anna asks, “What?” Buffy groans, “There is this whole ‘hour of weakness’ deal where for an hour after the baby is born Tara and her will be completely weak while their powers undergo changes. We didn’t tell you because you’d tell Tara and she’d get worried. I know we’re bad.” Anna asks, “You didn’t tell me?”



Buffy shakes her head and Anna yells, “What? I c-could have been preparin’ for this time for how long now?” Buffy supplies, “Three months.” Anna continues, “I could have been researchin’ ways to protect them for THREE M-M-MONTHS and you didn’t feel the need to tell me?” Anna can barely see straight, her anger is so fervent. Her stuttering has stepped up a notch because she is so upset. Dawn tries to comfort her, but fails. Buffy tells her, “We’ve been researching.”



Anna scoffs, ”With your precious books? I have r-resources at m-my disposal that you couldn’t even imagine.” Buffy sighs, “We made a mistake, all right. Calm down.” Anna gets in her face, “Damn r-r-right you m-made a m-mistake. Let’s just h-h-hope it doesn’t cost anyone their life like I think it w-w-will.”



Faith jumps in, “Calm down little bit. B’s the boss here and you need to back off.” Anna turns to Faith, “You’re all of two years older than me, if even and I could kick your ass three ways from Sunday. Stop actin’ like you’re the shit. And besides – where do you get off tellin’ me to back off? Since when have you been a useful member of the Scooby gang? Where w-w-were you this last year and a half while I was patrollin’ with Buffy?”



Faith can feel her anger building up and starts to move towards Anna but Buffy stops her, “You don’t want to fight with her, Faith. Besides, she’s right.” Anna stops her tirade, “Huh?” Buffy lowers her head, “I know that if anyone dies in this fight it will be my fault. It’s always my fault for involving them.” Anna sighs, her anger falling as she realizes she’s not angry at Buffy; just hurt. Hurt and worried. “No, that’s not what I meant, Buffy. It’s not your fault.” Willow and Tara appear at the door and Tara asks, ”What’s going on? What’s not Buffy’s fault?”



Anna shoots a questioning glance at Buffy who shrugs. Anna moves to help Tara into a chair saying, “It’s nothing, Sugar.” Tara frowns, “What was all that racket I heard earlier?” Anna quietly tells her, “We had a very unexpected visitor this mornin’.” Tara asks, “So we’re fighting about it?” Anna smiles easily, “No, that was just s-something silly. Buffy and I’ve already made up.”



Willow asks, “Who showed up?” Faith laughs and says, “Anna’s Mom.” Tara frowns, “But Anna doesn’t have a mom… Unless you mean that horrible woman you were telling me about,” Tara says, that last part directed to Anna. Anna smiles gently at Tara and says, “No, um, my Mother, The Goddess - She paid a visit to our kitchen – your kitchen.”



Tara stares blankly at Anna for a moment. Willow’s jaw drops as she asks, “Huh?” Buffy nods, “Yeah.” Faith tells them, “It was a trip.” Tara asks, “Seriously?” Dawn sits down beside Tara’s chair, “For real, Glenda.” After a second, “She touched me!” Willow raises her eyebrows, “Hopefully not in a dirty touch-y way.” Dawn rolls her eyes, “No, Wil!”



Anna proudly tells Willow and Tara, “Mother just approves of Dawn. She even went as far as to welcome her into the family.” Tara smiles, “That’s wonderful, Dawnie!” After a second, “Was that why she came?” Anna looks at Buffy and says, “You’re the boss.”



Buffy quietly tells Tara, “No, Tara. She came for another reason.” Tara asks, “Well, what is it?” Buffy drags it out as long as she can, beating around the bush like the bush was as big as a mountain. Finally Tara turns to Anna and says, “I know you’ll tell me. Why did She come?” Anna sighs, “First of all, don’t worry.” Willow makes a tiny sound, “Gulp.”



Tara hears it, “No, no ‘gulp!’ There will be no gulping. My baby is due in less than a week now, according to Giles’s calculations. I forbid there to be gulping.” Anna shakes her head, “Right, no gulpin’. There’s just a teeny little thing we have to talk about.” Tara nods, “All right – what is it?” Anna gulps before diving into the Goddess’s warning.



*********



Tara raises her eyebrows, “That’s the big excitement? One lone Sorceress coming to Sunnydale has got us all up and bothered?” She shakes her head and mumbles, “Getting me all worried for nothing.” Anna catches Buffy’s eye before saying, “You know what, Moma? You’re right. Nothin’ to worry about.”



Willow clears her throat, “Well, I’m not buying that. If this Sorceress is as powerful as everything has been making her out to be, she’ll strike us when we’re weakest; the hour after the baby is born.” She sighs, “I didn’t want to say this, but I think Tara and I should leave Sunnydale.” Tara’s jaw drops, “You can’t be serious Willow; I’m not traveling. I’m not leaving my family.”



Willow looks at her, “Tara, please! It’s our child’s safety we’re talking about.” Tara nods, “Yes, and where can we go, Willow? Who will protect us while we’re there? Every one I love and care about is here; the people who have sworn to protect our family are here. Why would I leave?” Anna steps in front of Willow saying, “It is my duty to protect both of them, and I will do it or die trying.”



Willow laughs bitterly, “That’s what I am afraid of.” Buffy joins Anna standing, “My life is on the line here, too. You have my word, not only as your best friend, Wil, but as the Slayer.” Faith also joins them, “Hey, you know me Red. I’m always up for a fight.” Dawn starts to stand up but Buffy, Anna and Tara all say at the same time, “No.” Dawn makes a face at them but sits back down.



Angel chimes in, “I’m game; just tell me what I’m killing.” Willow still isn’t sure, “Buffy, Who’s doing what in this battle?” Buffy clears her throat, “I’m not in charge of this fight.” Everyone looks at her with confusion. Faith asks, “B’s turning over control? Damn, the end of the world must be coming.”



Buffy shoots Faith a look before saying, “I’m not in charge because it’s not my skirmish to plan.” She looks at Anna, “It’s your fight, babe. Tell it out.” Anna’s eyes widen, “M-my fight?” Buffy nods, “You’re the one supposed to challenge her, remember? You’re the big gun, Girlie. It’s your battle to plan.”



Anna nods once, showing that she understands. Willow quickly asks, “Buffy, what do you mean?” Buffy tells her, “I’m not strong enough to do this, Wil. I can’t fight her.” Willow asks, “How do you know?” Buffy’s face shows a little hesitation as she tells Willow, “I just do.” Willow starts to say something but Anna quietly asks Buffy, “She showed you, huh?”



Buffy nods and Willow asks, “What?” Buffy sighs and tells Willow, “The Goddess showed me what would happen if I led the fight against the Sorceress.” Willow asks her, “What?” Buffy closes her eyes, “You all would die. Tara, Dawn, Faith, Anna, Angel, Giles, you. I would be left alive; Just the baby and me. I can only hope that by turning it over to Anna I can change that fate.”



Willow doesn’t say anymore. “What’s the plan, little bit,” Faith asks Anna, showing she is willing to take orders. Anna nods once before saying, “First of all, I want to make sure Tara is protected while we’re fightin’.” She looks around the room and says, “Buffy, I want you in charge of that. Dawn, Angel, Giles, and Anya can be posted there with you.” Buffy nods, knowing that it is for the best that Anna takes her out.



Anna continues, “I want Faith, Angel, and Willow with me. We’ll take only what weapons we can carry easily. This will be a mostly magickal fight.” Willow asks, “Why me? Shouldn’t I be with Tara?” Anna frowns, “Normally I’d say I’d want you to be with her, but I need you, Willow. You’re the only one here who can do magick enough to help me some.”



Dawn interrupts, “I want to be in the fight. I don’t want guard duty; I want to be with you.” Anna shakes her head, and softly tells Dawn. “I need you where you will be needed to most, baby. I think Tara will need your help more than I will. And I don’t want you to be in danger.” Faith jumps in, “What about B? You’re sending her to the hospital when she should be fighting this Bitch with us. You’re making a big mistake here, kid. I hope you know that.”



Anna looks to Faith and explains, “Buffy saw somethin’ she was supposed to see. Somethin’ Mother figured she needed to know. And that somethin’ has her shook up worse than a coke can straight out of the machine y’all don’t even bother to see it. I took Buffy out because she wants it. And I don’t want her in this fight if she’s goin’ to be scared she’s goin’ to screw up. I need people I can count on. Can I count on you Faith, or do you need to join Buffy at the hospital?”



Faith looks at Buffy before she says, “You’ve got me, Anna. Just tell me what to do.” Faith rolls her eyes as she tries to figure Anna out, ‘Man she says the strangest things,’ she thinks to herself. ‘A coke can straight out of the machine – who says that?’ Anna nods, “Here’s how it’s all goin’ to lay out. Listen up ‘cause I’m not goin’ to repeat myself. We don’t have a lot of time; and I fully expect to stop this bitch.”



And that is how the battle was planned. A nervous demi-Goddess planning to stop her very first apocalypse in a room full of veterans. Phone calls were made to Xander’s apartment and to The Magick Box where Giles was stationed with his books. Soon the gang knew their places; all that was left was to wait for the Sorceress to enter their world.



********



Life is made up of a series of moments, a series of choices. There are moments in life that determine who you are and who you will be. Those moments can be as small and as seemingly insignificant as hitting the snooze button once more. Or those self-defining moments can also be something so crucial that your life changes instantly. Do we stay and fight, or do we flee?



They chose to fight.



******



Jessica

Another update! This one has some Anna/Dawn Sex-yness. Just for a warning.



Chapter 24 'Time's a Wastin'



“Hey,” Dawn says, coming up behind Anna in the basement. Anna distractedly nods her greetings, looking down at the map in front of her and holding a crystal. “Whatcha doin’?” Dawn asks her, wrapping her arms around the blonde and putting her head on her shoulder. Anna tells her, “Lookin’ for dimensional hot spots. I figure the strongest one is where our Sorceress is goin’ to pop out.”



Dawn kisses Anna’s neck softly and whispers, “You’ve been scrying for five hours, baby.” Anna nods and gestures to the red circles covering the blueprint of Sunnydale, “And I’ve found 32 hot spots, but they’re pretty cold.” Dawn grins, “Hot spots being cold? Isn’t that an oxymoron?” Anna distractedly tells her, “Um, I don’t know. Probably.”



Dawn sighs, “It’s getting late and you haven’t eaten all day, Anna. Please come upstairs with me and let me take you to bed.” Anna shakes her head, still holding her scrying crystal by the chain attached to the end and swirling it over the entire map of Sunnydale. “Dawn, if I know where this Sorceress is gonna come out it might turn the whole battle around.”



Dawn sighs, “Just one hour? Take a break for one hour and rest; eat something. For me?” Anna can feel her resolve weakening as Dawn gently rubs her stomach making it growl with hunger. Her arm wavers slightly as she starts to lower it. Dawn kisses her neck once more and Anna gives in. She drops the crystal on the map and turns to face Dawn, “You win, Sugar.”



Dawn smiles, “Don’t I always?” Anna nods, “You most certainly do.” Dawn takes Anna over to the bed that is stationed in the basement and sits her down, “I’m going to go and get you a sandwich. You stay right here until I come back.” Dawn quickly runs up the stairs and into the kitchen. Faith is there sitting on the island and flipping through a magazine.



“Hey kid,” Faith says, not looking up from her Cosmo. Dawn looks at her before heading over to the fridge. Faith sighs, “Hey, can I talk to you for a sec?” Dawn sighs, “Little busy right now. Try again later.” Faith hops down from her perch, “Look, Dawn. I’m not your enemy; no matter what you remember about me. I’m just not that kind of girl anymore.”



Dawn rolls her eyes, “Oh, did prison reform the homicidal maniac?” Faith nods slowly, “Okay, I deserve that.” Dawn quickly pieces together a sandwich while Faith watches. “You making that for Blondie down there?” Dawn nods once, wishing Faith would just disappear. “She’s been down there for ages.” Dawn sighs as she finishes making the sandwich, “What are you – the observant Slayer?”



Willow walks into the kitchen, “Hey guys.” Dawn smiles, “Hey, Wil.” Willow asks, “Anna still in the basement?” Dawn nods, “Yeah, she won’t come up.” Willow sighs softly, ”I’m not sure Buffy was right in putting her in charge. She’s so young.” Dawn tells her, “Buffy did it when she was four years younger.” Willow nods, “I know, Dawnie. I’m just worried about her.”



Dawn tells her confidently, “She can do it.” Willow give her a small smile, “You know her better than anyone. If you say she can, I believe you.” Willow takes a bottle of water out of the fridge and exits the kitchen. Dawn turns to return to the basement but Faith catches her arm, “Hey; I’m sorry.” Dawn looks back at her for a second and says, “Good.”



She heads back to her very exhausted girlfriend in the basement. As she descends the stairs she calls out, “Anna?” There is no response and when she makes it to the floor she sees the blonde asleep on the bed. Dawn sets the sandwich on the table and crawls into the bed with Anna, snuggling up close to cuddle her. “I’m awake,” Anna murmurs sleepily. Dawn kisses the back of her neck, “Shh, no you’re not. Go back to sleep, baby.” Anna nods and soon is fast asleep.



*********



“Hey,” Tara says, walking into Buffy’s room. Buffy looks up at her, “Hey Tara. What can I do for you?” Tara smiles, “I just want to talk.” Buffy nods, “All right.” Tara sits her bloated self down on the bed by Buffy and asks, “How are you? Really.” Buffy laughs softly, “I’m only slightly fizzing now.” Tara frowns, “Huh?” Buffy quickly tells her, “The whole soda can comment. I’m only fizzing now… Get it?”



Tara nods, “Yeah, I get it.” Buffy sighs, “I’m getting old, Tara.” Tara shakes her head, “You’re a year younger than me; what am I? Grandma?” Buffy rolls her eyes, “ I’m the oldest Slayer, did you know that?” Tara quietly tells her, “No, I didn’t.” Buffy smiles sadly, “Yep. I got a card in the mail on my last birthday from the Council. The congratulated me on living this long. Turns out 26 is old for Slayers.”



Tara understands Buffy’s fear of this battle, “You think this is your last one, huh?” Buffy shrugs, ”I don’t know. Maybe. If not this one, what about the next one?” Tara takes her hand and Tells her, “You’ve always had to worry about ‘is the next fight my last one,’ Buffy. That’s what being the Slayer is, sacrificing your life to save the world.”



Buffy sighs, ”I’ve saved the world a thousand times, Tara. Maybe more. I just… I don’t want this anymore. I don’t want people I love to be in danger. I don’t want to drop my life to go save the world. I want a family. I want to find someone who knows the consequences of me being a Slayer but doesn’t care. I want what you have with Willow. I want what Dawn has with Anna. God, Tara, I even want what Xander has with Anya.”



Tara wisely tells Buffy, ”You will have that, Buffy. Someday you will find the perfect someone for you.” Buffy nods, “I know. Someday.” Tara pulls Buffy into a hug. Buffy laughs as she feels the baby squirming around in Tara’s tummy. “Is she always this active?”



Tara nods sadly, “Always; Even when we’re sleeping. She makes me lumpy.” Buffy laughs, “Poor lumpy Tara.” Tara sticks her tongue out at Buffy playfully. Buffy grins, as she says, “No, thank you I use toilet paper.” Tara makes a face, showing her disgust, “Gross, Buffy!” Buffy and Tara begin laughing for a bit.



“You know,” Buffy says, “I haven’t laughed like that in forever.” Tara smiles softly, “I know.” Buffy sighs, ”It felt good.” Tara kisses Buffy’s cheek and whispers, ”You’re going to be a wonderful Godmother.” Buffy nods but stops mid-nod. “You mean? Me?” Tara nods, “I mean. You. That is, if you, um, want.” Buffy yells out a squeal, “Want? Of course I want! Wow! Me? A godmother? That’s the greatest thing ever.”



She squeezes Tara into a hug. “Um, don’t pop my baby girl,” Tara tells her as the hug becomes tighter. Buffy quickly pulls away, “Can I do that?” Tara shrugs, “I’m not sure. You do have superhuman strength.” Buffy playfully punches at Tara, “I can’t pop your baby. Grr.” Tara grins, “You looked so cute though, all worried you were going to pop my baby.”



Buffy rolls her eyes, thinking, ‘How goofy is Tara? I’m lucky to have the great friends I do. Willow, Tara, Anna, Xander, Anya. Even Dawn. Giles is great, too. Maybe that’s why I’ve lived so long? Love is keeping me alive…’ She looks at Tara who obviously said something.



“Um, what was that,” Buffy asks sweetly. Tara repeats, “I was just asking if you’d been to the basement to see what Anna has found?” Buffy shakes her head, “Is she still down there?” Tara nods, “Dawn went to try and bring her up about an hour ago, but it didn’t work.” Buffy sighs, “I shouldn’t have given it to her.” Tara shakes her head, “No, I think you did the right thing. I -. Maybe you should go down there and talk to her? Let her know that you believe in her. She looks up to you, Buffy.”



Buffy laughs, ”She looks up to me? She’s almost better than me at everything, Tara.” Tara smiles, “But you are her idol. Like you said, you’ve saved the world a thousand times.” Buffy sighs, “I’ll talk to her, but I don’t see what difference it’ll make.” Tara hugs Buffy once more, “Thank you.” Buffy nods, “Anytime, Tara.” Buffy and Tara walk downstairs together, albeit, it takes forever because Tara has to move super slowly.



They finally make it though. Tara heads off into the living room where Faith, Giles, Xander, Anya, Willow and Angel are stationed. Buffy pops her head into the room saying, “I’m going to talk to Anna.” Everyone seems to be engrossed in the Discovery Channel and barely hears her. “It’s ‘Baby Week,’ and they’re showing birth,” Tara explains to Buffy who is wondering what could be so fascinating. Willow comments loudly, “Ew! Is that what’s going to happen?” Buffy nods once and walks to the kitchen, chuckling softly at her best friend.



As she approaches the door to the basement she hears sounds. And not good clean sounds either. “Huh?” She moves to open the door before she realizes what the sounds are. “OH GOD,” Buffy yells, covering her ears and running from the kitchen screaming, “La-La-La-La-La I can’t hear you!” Faith runs into Buffy running from the kitchen and asks, ”What the hell, B? You okay?”



Buffy frowns, “No.” Faith asks, “What’s up?” Willow appears next to them , “Why’d you yell?” Buffy shoots Willow a look, “They’re having sex! And you taught her how; I blame you.” Willow’s jaw drops open as she says vivaciously, “I did no such thing.” Buffy raises her eyebrows, “No? You weren’t the one having loud sexcapades in the next room for her entire teenage life?” Willow frowns, “Well, um, I might have been… But that doesn’t mean I taught her… No blaming of innocent Willows, Buffy.”



Buffy puts her head in her hands, “Why me? Why do I have to be the one to hear the moan-y, loud sexcapades?” Willow shrugs, “Slayer hearing?” Faith grins a little and Willow slaps her arm, “No listening for you, Missy.” Faith shrugs, “I wasn’t…” Willow raises her eyebrows and Faith stops, “Maybe I was.” After a second, “There’s only one girl down there making noise.”



Buffy looks at her, “Ew?” Faith laughs, “I’m just saying. Someone knows how to keep quiet.” Buffy shakes her head, ”It’s not Anna. That girl is never quiet.” Willow rolls her eyes, “Tell me about it; all the times she kept us awake at night… Um, not because she was having sex with Dawn that’s for sure.” Buffy puts her hands back on her ears, ”Can’t hear you.”



*************



Dawn groans as she feels the person next to her stir. “No, still time for sleeping,” she whispers groggily. Anna grins as she presses her lips to Dawn’s. Dawn slowly opens one eye, “Are you crazy?” Anna nods, “Crazy about you.” Dawn tries to keep her mad/serious face, but it doesn’t work, “You know, if you weren’t so damn cute all of the time I would be able to stay mad at you.”



Anna takes her hand and brings it up to caress Dawn’s cheek, “Would you really wanna stay mad at little ol’ me?” Dawn shakes her head, “Nope.” Anna asks, “Why not?” Dawn whispers, “I couldn’t kiss you if I was mad at you.” She hungrily presses her lips to Anna’s, seeking more than just kisses. Before she can think to react, Anna is being straddled by Dawn; hands roaming.



A Dawn-hand comes up between Anna’s legs, pressing against the fabric of her jeans as rough as she can. Anna arches her back, taking her hand to caress Dawn’s back. The kissing turns into a heavy petting session as both girls become more and more aroused. It becomes a must-have situation as they practically tear the clothes off of each other. The buttons of Dawn’s pants come flying off as Anna yanks them undone. “Sorry,” Anna murmurs but Dawn shakes her head, ”Shh.”



Dawn’s fingers remove the last bit of clothing hindering her from making love to her girlfriend while Anna kisses Dawn’s entire upper body with warm, wet kisses. The touching turns to fondling. Soon, the fondling turns to making love.



Anna quietly gasps as Dawn gently pushes her fingers into her. “Did I hurt you,” Dawn asks quickly. Anna shakes her head as she moves to enter Dawn with her fingers. Dawn shakes her head, ”I want to make love to you for a while first.” Anna nods as Dawn moves down to position her mouth over Anna’s private skin.



As Dawn dives in to lap up the wonderful liquid spilling from Anna’s inflamed sex, Anna’s hips fly off the bed in excitement. Loud sounds escape her lips; many moans and high pitched whimpers. Because she is under so much pressure Anna feels every thing Dawn is doing, but it’s multiplied times four. She soon becomes so close to the edge of her orgasm that her legs start shaking in anticipation.



Dawn stops her vigorous work to lightly run her fingers along the outside of Anna’s genitals. Anna falls slowly away from the border. “So close so fast, baby,” Dawn asks, still teasing Anna with her touch. Anna nods pulling Dawn up to kiss her. “My turn,” Anna whispers as she pushes Dawn to lay on the bed. Anna softly enters Dawn, first with one finger; testing to see if Dawn can handle more. As she sees that Dawn is open, she enters her with two fingers pumping slow yet steady.



“I love you,” She whispers in Dawn’s ear before kissing the lope and nibbling the neck. Dawn smiles and moans quietly. “I love you, too,” she says softly. Anna increases her speed, still kissing and biting where necessary. She makes her way down to Dawn’s sex, smelling its unwavering aroma and diving in to taste of the lovely juices.



Dawn's moans are quiet and can barely be heard. Anna happily works on making love to her girlfriend. Pulling Dawn’s clit into her mouth and sucking lightly before releasing it only to flick it relentlessly with the tip of her tongue. After a while Anna has Dawn close to the edge. Dawn tugs at Anna’s hair and the blonde comes up to meet her in a kiss. “Together,” Dawn whispers, carefully inserting her fingers back into Anna.



They position themselves to where they can lay comfortably and still make love. Anna is sensitive so she comes first; although she never stops her movement inside Dawn. A few short seconds later, Dawn comes crashing into climax a strained whimper escaping her lips as she removes her fingers from Anna and lays her head on her shoulder.



They lay there for a few minutes; basking in the glow of sex. After a while Anna sits up and hands Dawn her panties and shirt. Dawn smiles, “No more naked cuddles?” Anna laughs as she gestures to the bed with no sheets, “Um, I don’t know what kind of creepy-crawlies are livin’ in that bed.” Dawn jumps up and says, “Hey, point taken.”



Anna pulls on her shirt and panties, walking back to the map. Dawn pouts, “No more cuddles period?” Anna smiles, looking back over her shoulder at Dawn and says softly, “Just one minute.” She picks up the crystal and swirls it over the map. “There’s one place I hadn’t looked, yet.” Dawn stands up and comes up behind Anna, resting her head on the girls’ shoulder once again. The crystal makes a heavy THUD as it connects with the map. “Found it,” Anna says triumphantly. Dawn kisses her neck, “I knew you could do it.”



Suddenly the door to the basement flies open and they hear Faith’s voice call out, “I’m coming down.” She takes the stairs three at a time and jumps to the landing. “Anna, Tara’s water broke and she’s asking for you. She’s scared.” Anna grabs her pants from the floor and jams them on as she rushes out of the basement with Faith and Dawn.



********



Jessica

Mornin' Y'all!



Please pay attention to what I am about to write.



I am a very evil girl. There is a very evil scene in this chapter. One that some people might not want to read.



I'd like to warn every one that there is a RAPE scene in this chapter. I gave you fair warning. No 'hate' posts, please.







Chapter 25 'The End is Seriously Neigh'



Anna rushes into the living room where a crowd of people is gathered around Tara; gaping at the poor pregnant lady. “I’m here, Tara,” Anna calls out and the gathering parts to let the younger girl in. Tara’s face is priceless; a mixture of joy and fear and a little hysteria thrown in for good measure. “It’s time,” Tara comments, her hands resting on her stomach as if to hold the baby inside tighter.



Anna nods, “C’mon, Moma,” she gestures to Buffy, “We’re goin’ to get you to the hospital.” Buffy steps forward and helps Anna get Tara out of the comfy chair she is resting in. Tara smiles, “I love this plan.” Anna gently squeezes her hand and says, “Everythin’s goin’ to be just fine, Tara. I promise.” A very nervous Willow hurriedly runs down the stairs with a suitcase and yells, “I’m ready to go!”



Willow rushes out the door, not waiting for anyone else to follow her. Dawn moves to help Tara out of the door but Faith takes her elbow, “Um, you’re half naked kid.” Dawn looks down, notices her lack of pants and runs upstairs to grab some. All the while they are moving Anna whispers soothing words and calming spells into Tara’s ear. “We’re gonna have this baby a safe place to live, I swear to you.”



Anna loads Tara into the back seat of the Jeep and ushers Willow in next to her, “Keep her calm, Wil.” Willow nods as she rubs slow circles on her wife’s belly. Anna jumps into the driver’s seat and Buffy climbs into the passenger seat next to her.



Anna looks at Faith, “Can you drive?” Faith slowly nods and Anna tosses a set of keys at her, “Take Tara’s car and meet us at the hospital.” Faith salutes in all seriousness, “You got it blondie.” Anna watches Dawn come running down the stairs and blows her a kiss as she drives out of the driveway. Faith looks back at Dawn, “Just you and me.” Dawn nods, “Take me to the hospital.” Faith climbs into the car, “Already there…”



************



“Ms. Maclay – three days overdue,” The doctor comments as he helps the woman settle into her bed. Tara looks at him, “Rosenberg-Maclay, doctor. Where is Shellie?” The man clears his throat, “I beg your pardon, Ms. Rosenberg-Maclay. Dr. Linguist will not be on call for another hour, I will be handling your delivery.”



Tara nervously bites her lip and Anna tells the doctor, “We were told to page Dr. Shellie when Tara went into labour; she has been with us the entire pregnancy and we would feel more comfortable if we had her.” Off the look of the doctor’s face she hastily adds, “No offense meant, Doctor.” He frowns and says, “Dr. Linguist isn’t available.” Just then Willow comes rushing in, “I’m here baby. I just called Shellie and she’s on her way.” The doctor exits the room, obviously peeved.



Closely following Willow is Buffy and right behind her is Faith and Dawn. “Xander and Anya are in the waiting room… Giles is on his way,” Buffy announces softly. Tara looks around the room, grateful for her friends being there in such a time of joy and need. “Thank you all so much for coming,” she says getting tear-y eyed.



Buffy sits down on the side that Willow is not on and says, “Of course, Tare. You’re the only family we’ve got. Did you think we wouldn’t come?” Tara winces slightly and Willow asks loudly, “Does it hurt?” Tara smiles, “A little bit. But a good pain.” She then feels a much stronger surge and he body twitches, “Okay, it’s a big little pain.”



Willow can see the tears behind Tara’s eyes and looks to Anna, “Can you fix her?” Tara starts to shake her head but Anna whispers, “No.” The room looks to her and Dawn asks, “Can’t or won’t?” Anna sighs and says, “I can’t take away this pain with my powers. There is nothin’ that needs to be healed; this pain is the cause of someone’s life force being spiraled down into their soul. I can’t take that away.”



Tara smiles, “I understand.” Anna steps forward, “But I can try something that might ease the pain a bit.” Willow happily nods, “I don’t want her in pain.” Anna grins as she leans into the bed and feels around Tara’s belly for the perfect spot. She softly tells Tara, “Breathe deep, Darlin’, I need to feel a change.” Tara does as she is told and Anna slowly pushes into Tara’s belly with two fingers. Tara can feel the pressure releasing some as she lets her air out and she looks at Anna in awe.



“Acupuncture,” Anna says softly. Just then there is a knock at the door and Dawn lets Giles into the room, followed by Xander and Anya. He leans down to kiss Tara on the forehead and says, “I came as quick as I could.” Anna fades into the background as Tara smiles, “I’m glad you could make it… Grandpa.” Giles just grins.



**********



Tara’s hospital room has too many visitors but no one dares say anything. Very angry glares and loud protesting met the first nurse that came in there and decided to tell some one to leave. She was also pretty sure that the blonde girl, Bunny something or other, that had been in there countless times before for stitches and things like that was involved with a gang. She wasn’t so stupid as to make her mad; and she told all the other girls on that floor to stay away as well.



Tara began her breathing exercises not too long after having been there, “Ooh, ooh, HEE.” Willow sits next to her, breathing expertly with Tara; almost trying to share the pain. Anna walks quietly into the room carrying a tray of coffee in one hand and a bag of sandwiches in the other, “I come bringin’ goodies!” She is nearly attacked by those in the room thirsting for that small bit of caffeine that is in Sunnydale Hospital coffee.



She comes over to Tara and hands her a bottle of water saying, “No coffee for you, Moma.” Tara smiles, “Thanks, Anna.” The girl nods and joins Faith in her corner, almost putting herself in exile. The people all around begin talking and teasing Tara about the baby, never noticing Anna go.



Faith looks over at Anna and says, “You’re one of the accepted outsiders, girl. Why are you sulking over here in the corner with me?” Anna just looks at Faith, saying, “We’re about to leave for the fight.” Faith nods, “I get that, but why aren’t you making with the ooh’s and aww’s like the rest of the Scoobies?” Anna shrugs, “I guess I wanted to get to know you; you’re fightin’ beside me and all.” Faith laughs bitterly, “Nothing you need to know kid.”



Anna nods, “Can I ask you one question?” Faith thinks a minute before answering, “One.” Anna cocks her head sideways, looking Faith up and down. “What are you willing to do tonight?” Faith is speechless; she had expected a question like, ‘are you really reformed?’ She shakes her head slowly, “I don’t know what I’m prepared to do, Anna.” Anna quietly tells her, “I sure hope you’re ready to find out.”



***********





“Damn it, Tara,” Glory says upset, “Can’t you get the landings right? I mean, this cave is so totally not where I would like to come out at. It’s ruining my dress!” Willow’s eyes widen as she looks away from her Mistress’s angry face. Tara growls softly, showing her displeasure and Glory backs down saying, “My bad, you’re right. This place has a certain charm to it.”



A voice clears its throat and Tara snaps her head to the shadows and calls out, “Who goes there?” Klinghearth steps forward to greet his prodigy and announces, “It is I that has brought you here, Sorceress. I am Klinghearth, your Master.”



Glory starts coughing and waving her hands in front of her face to signal the demon not to say that but he does not understand. “Are you choking, Glorificus?” Tara laughs softly, tickled at the audacity of this demon. “Do you not know me creature,” Tara asks condescendingly. When the demon smiles and answers, “I know you all too well, Sorceress,” Tara feels all humanity leave her body.



“Then why do you address me as anything but Mistress?” Klinghearth gives a loud, throaty laugh and bellows out, “Tiny human; it does not matter the power beneath your fragile skin – I shall swallow you whole without so much as blinking.”



Willow sees the familiar hollowness in her mistress’s eyes and cowers in fright to the ground. Tara’s face spreads into a sexy half-grin and she hefts her sword high above her head, “Swallow me then.” Klinghearth begins to laugh at Tara but her quickness catches him off guard. Her sword penetrates his leathery demon skin to the bone.



“Foolish child,” he spits out, “No sword can be strong enough to kill me.” Tara continues to hack and slash at the creature until she is panting for breath. All of his wounds close up as if they had been nothing more than bugs floating above his flesh. He acts quickly, grabbing her hair with his vice grip and yanking her backward. “RELEASE ME,” Tara yells anger coursing through her body… Fire flashing behind her eyes.



He laughs, “Now wilt thou call me Master, young Sorceress?” Tara spits a huge amount of spit into the demon’s face and whispers, “Not while I still have breath.” Klinghearth releases his hold on Tara, “You are very brave.” As Tara shoots her hand out to meet his breast she says, “And you are very stupid.” Her hand travels through his chest, catching tight hold of his heart and ripping it violently from his center.



Klinghearth grasps the empty cavity where his heart once belonged, choking on the air that will not force its way into his demon lungs anymore. Without reason known to her companions Tara greedily stuffs the large, purpled organ into her mouth; swallowing the still pumping vessel whole. Klinghearth watches the Sorceress eat his life force, the source of his power in shame.



Tara’s eyes have taken on a primal force; they no longer see with human eyes. She lunges forward, while Glory and Willow watch on with utter abhorrence, and latches onto the demon; with all of her strength she drains the creature of his blood. She noisily laps up the precious navy blue liquid, feeling the power she is stealing from Klinghearth.



When she is finished, she takes her sword and cuts him down the middle; not bothering to wipe the disgusting blood from her mouth. From the demon’s belly springs D’Hoffryn; cramped and slightly digested but alive nonetheless. As soon as he catches sight of Tara’s wild eyes and blood stained face he releases a scream unbecoming of the Lord of Vengeance demons and disappears in a flash of smoke.



Tara jaggedly takes her left arm and wipes her mouth with it; the power still too much for her to take in. Her primal nature is still in control when she turns to face her Willow who is still blanching on the floor in pure horror. Willow sees Tara looking at her; she sees the primal need in her Mistress’s eyes. It terrifies her beyond belief, yet she cannot run from her.



Tara growls, a little strangely, and charges forward to scoop Willow up off the floor and pin her against the wall. Willow whimpers softly as Tara rips the covering off of her lower body and begins trusting her hand into Willow. Glory’s eyes grow wide as she tries to avert them out of respect.



Tara’s breathing becomes harder as she works on fucking Willow relentlessly. “Please?” The only word that escapes Willow’s mouth from time to time. Her body is shaking with silent sobs as Tara continues raping her. After nearly an hour of repeated, harsh stroking and brutal pumping Tara is spent… Her orgasm shudders through her body as her fingers pump inside of Willow.



At the crash of the climax, she bites down into Willow’s neck, breaking the skin and sucking of Willow’s blood. Willow lets out a shriek for all to hear; the pain of Tara’s blunt, human teeth shredding her flesh unbearable. She feels Tara removing blood from her neck and the fear she felt the first three months after the beautiful, yet dangerous, Sorceress captured her comes flooding back. ‘She will surely kill me,’ Willow thinks as Tara pushes her face deeper into Willow’s neck.



Then the world became black…



*******



Jessica