The Last Champion

[StrangeQuark]

This is getting sooooo good.



I like drama, a lot. I like romance, a lot. You have combined both of them so skillfully.



I like it, a lot.

[Tempest Duer]

Yes, this does qualify as a cliffhanger. I guess whether or not it's evil depends on your point of view. I think this story is shaping up very well. We did need something devastating, like Tara having killed thousands, to add to the whole mess, but hey, this is the Pens forum after all!



I, personally, would love to start an Initiative-bashing club. Anybody else want to join?

Willow: Hey Buff. One more thing. Buffy: Yeah? Willow: I’m gay. Buffy: Okay, Will. Xander owes me ten bucks.

~Remember to Breathe by Yellow Cray

[willowsgirl]

Cass, that was definitely of the cliffhangery persuasion!!

I cant wait to read more, this is a really great story

So Tara's a legend, and now the initiative are coming to get her...scary! Please let us kno what happens soon.



stace xxx

[bluewillowwitch]

Cassie ,

Excuse me while i grab a . Okay back. That was to stop THERE!!!! And the cliffhanger was mean and too. I can't believe that you would have so worried like that. seemed happy to hear her mother's voice. She has to be alright. She is going to be alright, right? Can't wait to more. Update soon, please?





Grace

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

"Fate keeps on happening."--Anita Loos

[WintersDreamer]

(nodding slowly).... yes, ... yes I do belive that qualifies as a cliffhanger.....AARRRRGGGHHHH! That was just mean and your very lucky we don't just tickle you for that!

Now that we have been tortured above and beyond you will udate soon....... right?

[TaraBaby77]

A cliffhanger like that.... WintersDreamer, I like your idea, we should tickle her until she turns red, heehee. Cassie, you meanie, you can't leave it like that. Sitting this far on the edge of my seat is illegal in some states, heehee. Anyhoo, keep them comin', kay??? Great stuff!!! =)

Aaron

'TaraBaby77'

"It's about two people, regardless of sex, who love each other and treat each other with compassion and respect."

[AntigoneUnbound]

Hey--This is interesting stuff, especially the sex scene. I'll be reading it closely.



Mary

Edited by: AntigoneUnbound at: 12/3/03 7:12 am

[intricate mirage]

Title: The Last Champion

Authors: intricate mirage (Cassie) & the vamp nurd (Rachael)

E-mail: intricatemirage@yahoo.com & luckyol78shirt@yahoo.co.uk

Disclaimer: The characters of BTVS belong to Joss. Any other characters belong to us.

Feedback: Yes please, everything is welcome.

Distribution: Email us first please, just to let us know if you’re borrowing it.

Pairing: W/T

Rating: NC-17

Setting: AU fic. Tara is a dhmpire - half human, half vampire - and she is the last of this breed.

AN: This piece is what happens when two people have an idea. And work together. Do enjoy.



Thoughts in < ... >



***



Chapter 5



“Tara. At last we meet.”



Staring at the person in front of her at the door, part man, part demon, part machine, Tara raised her eyebrow and replied sarcastically, “Nice of you to drop by. I’m taking a stab in the dark, but I don’t presume you’ll be Adam?”



“I see you’ve heard of me.”



“Well not till a few seconds ago, so much so for reputation. But then again, by the time I’m done with you, there won’t be a need for it anymore.”



Letting out a sinister laugh that sent chills down Tara’s spine, “Oh Tara. You have much to learn. By the time I’m done with you, you would have wished I’d killed you.” Shooting Tara a cold hard stare, he growled, “Get her.”



A loud crash behind Tara sent her spinning on her heels to find a few more soldiers coming through the windows, running towards them, she jumped onto a chair, gaining considerable leverage before leaping off it to aim a solid kick into one soldier’s chest, sending him flying right back out the window. many more to go>



The thunderstorm was rolling in a distance, kicking up the wind speeds as lightning continued streaking across the skies, casting a few occasional white glares into the room, in contribution to the yellowish glows from streetlamps flooding the hotel room.



Tara whirled around to another commando who had come through the window and was charging towards her, doing a back flip, she caught him in the jaw and sent him reeling backwards. Spending the next few minutes exchanging blows as she one by one skillfully took out the rest of the commandos that have clambered through the window via the rooftop above, Tara failed to realize that the group at the door had yet to make a single move, only to be severely remind when one clobbered her on the back just as she was turning around, sending her sprawling towards the ground.



“Get her Riley. Time to make mother proud.” She heard Adam say.



Squaring off with the commando with brown hair and blue eyes, cocking her head to one side, if not for the commando outfit, she would have just recognized him as a good old Iowa family boy. Slamming one fist into his face as she aimed another into his ribs. Tara ducked his blows, before holding up her palm to stop his oncoming fist, pulling him towards her. Grabbing his arm, she twisted it behind his back with a deadly force as a resounding crack was heard and spun around to land a roundhouse that sent him ramming against the wall. Watching Riley pick himself back up determinedly to face her, Tara couldn’t help being impressed. Fist flying from her waist, Tara caught Riley underneath his jaw and delivered a knock out blow.



Furious with the outcome of the fight, Adam gave command and then the onslaught began. Managing to fend off the first few punches, Tara was soon rained down by cold hard steely blows and gradually found herself falling back on her heels. Feeling the pain shoot through her back as another blow was delivered across her face, causing a deep cut in Tara’s cheek. Seeing a couple of commandos advance with the net they had, Tara growled deep in her throat as she kicked, propelling herself off the ground, pushing off the steel rods, doing a front flip to land behind the commandos. Picking up a nearby rod, Tara whipped around to deliver some cold hard steely blows of her own. On any other occasion, Tara would have found it rather funny, what with a few grown up, well built men being flung across the room and even a couple flying out through the broken window. But this was no ordinary occasion, Tara knew that after she was done with them, she would have to face off with Adam who had been watching the whole scene take place without trading a single blow. Unlike her, he wasn’t tired nor weary, neither was he like the normal commandos, Tara didn’t know how long she could last.



Having finally settled all the commandos, Tara looked out at the window. Lightning streaked across the sky, thunder rolled in a distance, rain started pouring down and the strong winds that came through the window whipped Tara’s hair behind to reveal a bloody face and a weary gaze. Tara uttered a silent prayer, bracing herself as she turned around.



A whipping sound followed by a hot searing pain that Tara felt shooting through her leg. Looking down, Tara saw a knife embedded in her thigh. In a flash, Adam was in front of her, one hand gripping the knife handle, the other gripping on Tara’s hair, wrenching her close to his face. “Be prepared little girl, this is going to hurt.” Face contorting up into a menacing grin, Adam slowly turned the knife blade in Tara’s flesh. A loud cry tore itself from Tara’s throat as it erupted through the night.



Laughing, satisfied with the reaction he got, Adam gave a smirk, “Hurts doesn’t it?”



Biting on her bottom lip to force back the tears presently welling up in her eyes from the intense pain, leveling the part man, part demon, part machine creation in front of her with a steely and cold gaze, “Not as much as I’m going to hurt you, freak.”



Adam never saw it coming as Tara lashed her fist across Adam’s face with breakneck speed, catching him hard in the nose, breaking it with a resounding crack. Hands on his nose, stumbling backwards, Adam stared at his bloody hands. “Now you’ve pissed me off.”



“Haven’t I done that already? Pity. I was looking to have made you hopping mad by now.” Retorted Tara as she took this time to pull the knife out of her thigh, wincing slightly at the pain before using the knife as her defense.



Letting out a feral yell, Adam leapt towards Tara, clutching Tara’s outstretched hand, twisting it and delivering a series of hard blows into her face. Grip loosening, the knife slid from Tara’s hand and landed by a feet with a loud clang. Ramming her knee into Adam’s ribs, Tara wrestled herself out of his grip, pushing him backwards. Spinning on her heels to deliver a sound kick into the side of Adam’s head, Tara elbowed him roughly in the face before connecting her fist with his jaw, causing Adam to fall backwards against the floor. Legs kicking out to swipe Tara of her feet, Adam groped around, his fingers closing upon a cool metal rod. Rising to his full height, he rained down heavy blows upon Tara, hitting her wherever he could land his steel rod, giving her frequent kicks in her ribs with his boots. Adam felt Tara weaken beneath him as she stopped struggling. Throwing the steel rod to the far end of the room, Adam reached down, laying a vice-like grip on her neck, hauling Tara up and slamming her against the wall.



Tara lay limp in Adam’s grip, feeling consciousness gradually slipping away as darkness slowly consumed her vision. With a self satisfied smirk gracing his face, “You coming back with me.”











Eyes snapping wide open, Tara growled, “Never.” Summoning all her energy and smashing her fist into the side of his head and giving him one hard shove to ground. Tara looked down. She kicked him hard in the groin, the creature doubled up in agony and pain. Stumbling towards the broken window, Tara flung herself out of it, landing sideways roughly against the wet concrete before picking herself up, running through the whipping winds and raging thunderstorm.



By the time Adam got to the window, Tara was gone. Letting out a howl of rage, he rammed his fist deep into the wall.



“Bitch.”



***



“Here? In Sunnydale?”



“Which part of ‘She’s here’ did you not get Giles? Of course she’s here. Here, in Sunnydale.”



Face creased in obvious distress, “When? Why? Wait, how do you know?”



“Why won’t I know Giles? She’s Willow’s latest orgasm buddy.”



Jaw dropping in pure shock, Giles recollected himself, wiping his glasses for about the tenth time, “Anya, please, sit down. Tell me what’s going on.”



***



After what had felt like eternity to her, Willow finally heard a soft voice echoing in her head.



Relief flooding throughout Willow’s body.















Nearly tripping over her own feet, Willow rushed over to her dorm room door, throwing it open in great trepidation. Nothing could have ever prepared for the sight that greeted her as her jaw dropped, worried eyes widening in pure horror. There stood Tara, slumped against her door entrance, her lover, her soulmate, clothes slightly ripped at some areas, drenched, a bloodied face with a deep ugly gash across her cheek. Slowly raising her head to look into Willow’s eyes, Tara lips raised ever so slightly into a weak half smile Willow had already committed to memory by hard, “I love you Willow…” Before falling forwards into Willow’s arms.



Hands gripping Tara’s now fragile frame in her arms, Willow carefully brought her in, kicking the door close, slowly lowering Tara to the ground as she sank to her knees, tears threatening to spill from her eyes. “Tara…” Willow’s broken voice tearing through the quietness of the night as she buried her head against Tara’s chest, finally allowing the tears to fall.



***



to be continued



Do you guys think this is a cliffhanger? Personally I'm not sure



So... Feedback, anyone?

Cassie





I don't mind being alone

I just don't want to be alone without you

Edited by: intricate mirage at: 12/3/03 11:41 am

[intricate mirage]

Hey Kittens



Yay! There's feedback! Ok, as usual, individual replies first before the next update



Washi - Yo dude! Thanks for stopping by to read and leave feedback Feedback junkie here Lol yay succeeded in creating a cliffhanger, ahh well, I think this next update is a cliffhanger too



sabina - Hey sabina! Found it hot and sweet? That's good! Was aiming for that Hmm yes Anya's descriptions of Tara without a doubt is unsettling, makes you wonder even more about Tara's mysterious and dark past doesn't it? Well, stay tuned to know more!



StangeQuark - Hey SQ! Thanks for the feedback goodness, makes me all warm and glowy Thanks for liking this fic alot, it really makes my day!



Tempest Duer - Something devastating to add to the whole mess. Oh yeah, we're just at the tip of the iceberg, the mess had barely started yet. Aha! **clears throat to make an annoucement* Attention Kittens, Tempest Duer has kindly offered to start Initiative-bashing club, interested Kittens step right up!



willowsgirl - Hey Stace! Glad to see the avatar didn't distract you all too much seeing you managed to read the fic Ohh yes, scary ain't it? More coming up soon, thanks for reading hun!



bluewillowwitch - Hey Grace! How was the shower? Me having Willow worry like that? Ok bad Cassie, bad bad Cassie. Yes, Tara definitely misses her mother and was happy to see her amidst the impending trouble. Hmm will Tara be alright? I don't know, but you just may find out in the update, no promises though *evil grin*



WintersDreamer

Quote:

---

That was just mean and your very lucky we don't just tickle you for that!

---

*backs off slowly* There now... Ok... *gulps* Tickles aren't exactly my next best friends so urm... *worried glance* See uh... The next update may somewhat be cliffhanger like.. so you take a really long time to read it ok? I'll just be urm.... *dashes off into the nearest closet I can find*



TaraBaby77 - Hey Aaron! Oh no... *groans* Not you too... Tell you what, you join WintersDreamer in the taking-a-long-time-to-read-update club while I do what I do best ok? *scrams off way out of WintersDreamer and Aaron's reach*



AntigoneUnbound - Hey Mary Thanks for the feedback! Hope you'll enjoy the rest of the fic Once again, thanks for reading!



Many thanks to all the kittens who are reading this fic Hope you guys are enjoying it and here's a big thanks to my co-author too. Thanks Rachael!

Cassie





I don't mind being alone

I just don't want to be alone without you

[Puff]

Hi I'm really enjoying this story and I apologize for not giving feedback sooner. I am pleased that Tara was able to get away from Adam and what sounds like the rest of the Initiative but I wonder how long she will be safe for? Especially now that Giles knows that she is in Sunnydale and seeing Willow.



I liked the last update and I'm looking forward to reading what comes next, I hope Tara has some of that vamp healing going for her. Let's hope Willow will keep her safe until she is better.

---

So, the day started and I knew my name and had my pants on. So far, so good. Yay.
Amber Benson

[StrangeQuark]

Nah, it's not a cliffhanger. All of the real action and motion was in the beginning and middle. Everything wound down to the end (a very sweet end, by the way.)



Don't get me wrong, I'm hungry for more, but I don't feel like I've been left hanging.



Good action scenes BTW. They can be very tricky to write, and you handled it well.



Update soon, please.



-SQ

[sabina]

Hey there



Cliffhanger?! Nooooo... Just a very mean place to stop your story



Ok, now seriously, I loved this update

It was great to see Tara kicking Adam's butt.

And I'm happy that she got to Willow's place before fainting.



I'm really curious to see what will happen next!



Update soon?

---

"I know I was born and I know that I'll die.

The in between is mine.

I am mine!" - Pearl Jam

[Grimlock72]

Oh yes, good action scenes... well writen. However Tara should made a run for it far sooner, she was badly outnumbered and wouldn't have won in any event. Might as well run away early and avoid damage then I'm reasonably sure she will recover, just wondering how long that will take. How did Adam find her anyway ? I was almost expecting Willow to burst in doing God knows what, she wouldn't take to well to people hurting Tara I expect (as she sees her mainly as innocent victim, not knowing about the drunk)



Anya's comment about how Tara's supposed to have killed Angel and his familly confuses me. I'm not sure what is up with Angel in this story, but if it's about the same as on TV he killed his own familly after being turned by Dru. Then again that would be something Giles would know.... puzzling that. Hmm... now maybe council records wouldn't show a Slayer having killed several humans over one vampire... yeah I can image them forgetting to note such things...easily.



Don't get why Anya is so panicky as well. It's not like Tara has already started mass-killing which Anya claims she does do so much of. It's too bad Tara killed that drunk man just to feed, that was bad. That definitly puts her out of the Good persons club, after all she could as easily have bought pig's blood but chose not to. Makes it more interesting, not a purely good main charachter.. would have been easier :-)



I personally would never believe anybody coming around in the middle of the night banging on my door . Giles is probably used to that I guess.



I have to wonder why the raid on Tara was executed so poorly. The first part, entering the area, was done ok... but after that it was a mess. Why not use tazer guns ? Work nicely on Spike no reason to think they wouldn't stop Tara. Took the lord knows how long to use even a single knife/weapon.... surely they've figured out they can't beat Tara on strength or speed ?? (yeah I know, male ego's... still....:-)



It's possibly to hurt Adam appearantly, interesting. I wonder if they'll upgrade him to prevent such things from happening. Can't have a unbeatable soldier who can be disabled by a simple kick to the groin-area, heh : --> . Good for Adam that Willow is rather busy taking care of Tara at the moment, after all Adam doesn't have much skin as is : -->



I vote for having a little *cough*talk*cough* with Mrs. Walsh. Maybe Tara's mother can do the honours, play the vengefull ghost a bit... plenty of motivation.



Enough of my ranting.



Grimmy

--
"You hurt Tara," Willow said too calmly. "The last one who tried that was a god. I made her regret it." -- Unexpected Consequences by Lisa of Nine

[bluewillowwitch]

Cassie ,

Love the fic! And yes that was a cliffhanger! A very one at that. Oh My God! I don't believe that you just beat like that! Oh and is freaking before she just cracked at seeing her beat up like that. Woman! Can't wait to more. Update soon, please?





Grace

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

"Fate keeps on happening."--Anita Loos

[intricate mirage]

Hellooo Kittens!



Nope, no update this time, I'm kinda free now so just doing some individuals replies first, chapter 6 ought to be up on Saturday morning though



Puff - Hey there! Thanks for taking time to leave some feedback, appreciate it loads Hmm, how long will Tara be safe for? Keep on reading to find out, I think some of your questions may be possibly answered in the next update



willowsgirl - Hey Stacey! You hate Adam now? Go on ahead, join the Initiative bashing club started by Tempest Duer and have a fun time Is Tara gonna be ok? Well... I don't know, read on to find out



StrangeQuark - Good action scenes? Yay! Ohh *rubs hands in glee* I'm glad to have left you hungry for more, there'll be a huge serving coming up in the next update, so feel free to help yourself to more then



sabina - Ok ok so I've been rather mean, having two cliffhangers so far, but I can assure you no more cliffhangers will be coming your way, for now *evil grin* Enjoy the next update when it comes along!



Grimlock72 - Hellooo Grimmy! Ohh long feedback! Me like

Quote:

---

However Tara should made a run for it far sooner, she was badly outnumbered and wouldn't have won in any event.

---

It was sorta like the kind of all-coming-in-a-rush kinda situation, you can't just pick and run, commandos through the window and door, so need to fight then pick and run. And why Tara chose to fight Adam is because he's all fresh and energetic, she could never outrun him so she had to induce some form of injury on him before making a run for it.



Regarding Angelus, well it is not really his family that Tara took out, but his group - his group will be made known later in the fic - I know Tara's past is a little hazy right now, but it will come to light as the story goes on.

Quote:

---

Don't get why Anya is so panicky as well.

---

You'll find out soon enough why, all I'm gonna say is that Anya and Tara do go back a long way

Quote:

---

I have to wonder why the raid on Tara was executed so poorly.

---

It was carried out poorly due to Adam's *ahem* ego. He underestimated Tara, assumes that a creature of the night will be easy to caputer, just like ordinary vampires. So since *he* is going to be there, it's going to be easy as well Obviously he thought wrong.

Quote:

---

I wonder if they'll upgrade him to prevent such things from happening. Can't have a unbeatable soldier who can be disabled by a simple kick to the groin-area, heh

---

Grimmy! That was hilarious Well, Adam still is a man afterall ya know



Feel free to rant again, I love the feedback you give, even helps me in checking for loop holes in the fic So keep it coming Grimmy! Once again, thanks!



bluewillowwitch - Hey Grace!

Quote:

---

Oh My God! I don't believe that you just beat like that! Oh and is freaking before she just cracked at seeing her beat up like that.

---

*apologetic grin* Ok so I haven't exactly been Miss Nice to these two, but I do promise they'll have better times soon! Starting from the next update onwards, but be warned, good times don't last forever *evil laughter*



to all kittens who are reading this fic, thanks for reading and here's a and to Rachael too!

Cassie



If I could only hold you now and make the pain just go away

Can't stop the tears from running down my face

I keep trying to find my way but all I know is I'm lost without you

Edited by: intricate mirage at: 12/4/03 10:24 am

[barnabasvamp]

Well, my GF told me this story was a definite read, and she was oh-so-right!



The interactions between Willow and Tara both in the physical and "connected" sense are excellent. You have managed to touch on so many emotions!



I like the way you worked in Adam and the initiative, and I find myself wondering just how Tara will survive this.



Look forward to more.

BV

"When choosing between two evils, I always like to take the one I've never tried before"-Mae West

[Tempest Duer]

Oooh... time to :hammer Adam and the Initiative. Nice job!



Now, about destroying them... stoopid Initiative...

Willow: Hey Buff. One more thing. Buffy: Yeah? Willow: I’m gay. Buffy: Okay, Will. Xander owes me ten bucks.

~Remember to Breathe by Yellow Crayon

[Shinnen]

whoah... excellent storyline. I can imagine the battle in my head. also Tara's Dhampire characteristic makes her AU character very interesting. looking forward for more.

CheerZ

Shinnen



She's the most amazing girl in the whole world. She's the only girl who makes my heart beat faster and slower at the same time. When I'm not with her, I'm not living. I'm not existing until I can hold her in my arms again.

[intricate mirage]

Hey Kittens!



Here's some more individuals replies and update up next



barnabasvamp - Hey! Thanks for the compliments, was worried for a while that the interaction between W/T physical/emotional/'connected' sense wouldn't be brought out properly. Whew *sigh of relief* Thanks for assuring me it did. Wondering how Tara will survive this? Well read on to find out



Tempest Duer - Yo! Glad to see you're planning how to the damn Initiative, behind you all the way buddy!



Shinnen - Yo Shin! Thanks for the feedback hun Made me all glowy Hope you'll enjoy the rest of the fic!



Ok, update coming right up in the next post, now who's interested to find out why Anya has had such huge reactions to Tara's presence in Sunnydale? It's a long update, so sit tight



Thanks to all who read too and not forgetting thanks to me lovely co-author Rachael!

Cassie



My whole life I've only loved one person, that person was you.

Edited by: intricate mirage at: 12/6/03 7:12 am

[intricate mirage]

Title: The Last Champion

Authors: intricate mirage (Cassie) & the vamp nurd (Rachael)

E-mail: intricatemirage@yahoo.com & luckyol78shirt@yahoo.co.uk

Disclaimer: The characters of BTVS belong to Joss. Any other characters belong to us.

Feedback: Yes please, everything is welcome.

Distribution: Email us first please, just to let us know if you’re borrowing it.

Pairing: W/T

Rating: NC-17

Setting: AU fic. Tara is a dhmpire - half human, half vampire - and she is the last of this breed.

AN: This piece is what happens when two people have an idea. And work together. Do enjoy.



Thoughts in < ... >



***



Chapter 6



“Tara…? Tara, please… speak to me. Baby please… Open your eyes…” Willow’s tears spilled over onto Tara’s bloody face as she continued rocking Tara in her arms. Letting out a short gasp of pain, Tara’s hand raised slowly to cover Willow’s hand which was resting on her stomach. “Willow…” Gradually opening her eyes.



Staring down at twin pools of sapphire, Willow didn’t just see weariness and pain, she saw torrents of love pouring out along with them, Willow saw home. Cradling Tara tightly against her chest, “God Tara… I thought I lost you.”



Letting out soft chuckle that led to Tara wincing due to the pain, “Can’t lose you Willow… Just found you.”



Arming her face with a resolved look, Willow firmly replied, “Darn tooting right. You’re not going anywhere without me missy.”



“Damn straight.”



Hearing Willow laugh, Tara’s heart did its own little dance.



Being with Willow was a whole new experience, nothing as Tara had ever felt like before. Whenever she was with Willow, her heart felt so full with emotions it could almost burst, Tara wasn’t just happy, she was contented. Willow always helped her turn a cold shoulder against her inner demons, even though her lover, her adorable redhead hadn’t the slightest idea. Whenever Willow was beside her, Tara found quiet strength that surged from an unknown place deep within her, far beyond one’s imagination, a strength far greater than any she had held as a dhmpire. Tapping into this strength, Tara did what her heart had been screaming at her to do ever since she had faced off with Adam. Raising her palm to rest against Willow’s tear stained face, Tara caressed her cheek tenderly, before bracing herself on her other free hand to raise her lips up to Willow’s, ending in their sweetest kiss. Eyelids fluttering to a close, Willow felt instantly connected to Tara’s thoughts. She could feel it. It wasn’t just a kiss that lovers shared. It was a kiss only she and Tara shared. Willow felt Tara’s loneliness, Tara’s pain. Willow felt the love that Tara had kept locked up deep within her ever since her mother died. Willow felt Tara pouring out that very love that Tara had saved for centuries and Tara was giving it all to her. A tear rolled down Willow’s cheek.



Tasting the saltiness of Willow’s tear, Tara gently pulled away, only to wrap Willow in her arms, cradling her in the crook of her neck.



Emotions overwhelming her heart, Willow desperately sought for the words to say, words strong enough to convey the love she felt for Tara, “Tara…I…I…”



“Hush Willow… I know…” Fingers stroking Willow’s hair, “I feel the same way too…”



Sitting peacefully in each other arms, taking comfort in the love they had. Willow finally broke the silence, “What happened Tara?”



“Attack… Scientists… Soldiers… Government… Adam…”



“Soldiers? Wait, you mean commandos?”



“Yeah, commandos…” Tara’s voice weakening slightly as the effects of the fight started taking its toll on her battered body.



Concerned with Tara’s weakening grasp on her, “Tara…?”



“Tired Willow…”



“Stay with me Tara, please… Tara, listen to me, I’m going to call Giles, he knows what to do, he always does. Just stay with me, we still have to get to his house… Ok baby?” Seeing Tara’s faint nod in response, Willow laid Tara gently back down, grabbing a pillow from the bed to prop up her head before picking herself up to give Giles a call.



***



Ring. Ring.



“Hello, Giles speaking. Willow? Why are you calling me at this time of the night?” A momentary pause settled in the living room, shooting Anya a gaze who had calmed down and was presently mouthing to him in question to Willow’s call, “I see. Willow, it is of utmost importance that the two of you come here at once. I’ll see you soon. Be careful Willow. Ok, bye.”



“What is it Giles? What does Willow want? And who’s the two?”



Clearing his throat, obviously not liking the fact that he had to be the one to break the news to Anya, “Willow’s coming right now… With Tara.”



Shrieking at the top of her lungs, Anya’s eyes widened in pure terror, “WHAT?!!!”



***



It wasn’t long before Willow and Tara managed to get over to Giles’s house, having stumbled a good portion of their way over as Willow struggled to help Tara keep her balance, whilst trying her best not to trip over her own feet in anxiety.



A sharp rapping was heard on the door, opening it Giles found a worried Willow and a very bloody Tara. Taking in the appearance of the two, Giles was immediately extremely concerned with what he saw. Tara may be the last champion of the dhmpire and a frightful creature that had sent people reeling back into their homes behind locked doors. < Is this the same creature?> Here she was all bruised and battered, no one deserved such a bloody fate.



Reaching out to help Willow with Tara, “Come on Willow, let’s place her on the couch. I’ve got a First Aid box somewhere in the kitchen, let me get it, we’ll have to clean up some of her wounds.”



Having seen Tara safely onto the couch, Giles dashed back into the kitchen, returning almost immediately with the box. Willow looked up to find Anya standing at the kitchen entrance, a good distance away from her. Opening the box to take out some antiseptic and gauze, Willow raised an eyebrow, “What are you doing here?”



Anya shifted uncomfortably, "I came because I wanted to."



Willow looked at her, "What's that supposed to mean."



Realizing that Anya was not getting anywhere with her comments, Giles interceded, “Willow, Anya came to see me regarding Tara.”



“Tara? Why?” Turning her head back towards Anya, clearly confused, “Anya?” Noticing that Anya was too far away to hold a decent conversation with her, Willow asked, “Could you come closer please Anya? It’s extremely tiring for me this way.”



“But…”



Seeing the anxious look Anya was shooting Tara, Willow said softly, “You don’t have to be scared of her.”



“Why shouldn’t I?”



“Why should you?”



Inching slightly closer towards Willow, “Tara… She…” Letting out a long sigh, “I met her and her bloody buddy. Back when I was a vengeance demon.”



"How many times?" Willow asked.



"Three times. Once with Halfrek, twice by myself." Anya replied, "She had friends with her all three times."



Willow sat up, intrigued by what the ex-vengeance demon had to say about her lover’s past, speaking very slowly, "Tell me…."



***



1668



Anyanka was watching, the man she had just cursed had fallen. Poisoning, she smiled.



Then something caught her eye. Three women coming towards the fallen man. The first was dark, gyspy like, the other two, one blonde, one brunette, the dark blonde was a blue eyed woman with a full figure, the other clad fully in leather.



The blue eyed woman smiled then bent down and checked the man's pulse, "Dead, not long ago, still warm, he's perfect."



"That's good, we get a free meal." The brunette replied.



The blue eyed woman turned to the brunette, "We only feed off the dead or the drunk Faith. We don't hunt. You ought to know that by now Faith. We don’t just hunt for the fun of it.”



The other gypsy like woman peered at the man, "He's been poisoned." She said softly to the dark blonde. "I don't know know that for sure, but looking at him, I say he was poisoned."



Replying softly, "It’s ok Jana, that doesn't affect us."



Jana smiled, "Are you sure Tara?"



Tara looked at Jana and smiled, "Yes. I suppose this means that we drag him into those shadows over there."



"Good." Faith replied smiling.



"Faith, your fangs." Tara mildly admonished.



Faith smiled then licked her lips, "Oh yes, sorry Tara."



Tara smiled, "You're forgiven Faith, come on, let's get this body out of the way before anyone notices it."



The three women picked up the corpse and dragged into the shadows.



Anyanka stood motionless, she watched as these three women hauled the corpse into the shadows. Suddenly, they were ripping the man's shirt off, the gypsy and the brunette were feeding, the one called Tara was kept watch.



Feeling the vengeance demon’s presence, Tara turned to look at her. She smiled, "Look what we've got here..." She said softly, "What are you looking at."



Anyanka saw a flash of sharp teeth as the three turned to her, the two had just been feeding had blood on their lips.



Raising her hand, Tara held back the other two, "Leave her alone, she can't do anything to us."



"How do you know that I can't do anything to you?" Anyanka rasped.



The blue eyed woman smiled, again showing sharp canines, "You're a demon..."



"And you aren't?" Anyanka rasped.



The brunette smiled, "Can we kill her? I never killed a demon, please Tara please?"



"Faith, we aren't killers, we're not slayers remember. Demons exist. We aren't the same. Not demons, just creatures of the night."



Faith eyed Anyanka, "Why is she here?"



"By the facial features and the pendant I say we're looking at a vengeance demon." Tara stated. "Probably here on business. They grant wishes for people. My mother spoke of them, they were like the Furies in Greece, the Furies being the first vengeance demons.”



Anyanka studied the blue eyed woman, she was the height of smooth, urbane coolness. She knew that there was something about this one. She seems to be the leader. "I am. My name is Anyanka."



"Anyanka? Then we are truly honored." Tara turned then shouted, "Anyanka is here! The Patron St of Scorned Women!"



The other two women laughed then clapped. Anyanka was amused slightly, three women clapping her?



Tara smiled, "You must be watching your victim."



Anyanka nodded.



"Faith and Jana were just finishing him off. Nice of you to provide us with a meal." Finishing off with a smile.



Anyanka changed into her human features, "I'm sure his wife will like it."



The blue eyed woman smiled again, "You granted her wish, we're just the scavengers that found the corpse first."



"Vampires..."



Quick as flash the blue eyed woman pinned her to the wall, "Listen demon Anyanka. We are not vampires... We aren't animals who have nothing better to do than hunt and feed. We are dhmpires."



Anyanka blinked, the woman released her, "Dhmpires... I thought they died out."



The blue eyed woman smiled, then she clapped, "Come on, we've got to be at the ball in an hour, can't have blood on our lips can we."



Then they all laughed, and disappeared into the night.



***



1881



Anya was summoned, the cry of pain was unlike nothing she'd ever felt before. It was like a deep burning like never before.



It was like someone was screaming in her ear, and it wasn't stopping...



She hurried out of the ball, making her excuses. She found herself drawn to an old house, the gardens were well kept, yet it seemed so ruined.



There was something in there.



Howls and screams were heard, something was alive in there...



Anyanka looked at the two flaming torches held by two figures were making their way to the house. Anyanka caught a flash of white fanged teeth. Upon further glance, Anyanka’s eyes widened in recognition.



The two figures made their way to the building, "For Jana." The first one whispered.



"For Jana." The second one replied, they both tossed their torches onto the front door.



The house caught fire and soon it was covered in wild flames as the fire spread furiously throughout. Anyanka inhaled, the smell of burning ash. Vampire ash. Mixed in with the smoke and other smells like wood and sandalwood, the smell would have been nice, but not in this case when they were mixed with the scent of death.



She noticed that crosses were lined up along the doors and windows, bolts and nails holding boards firmly up against all doors and windows, blocking of all forms of exits...



Anyanka stood watching the blaze. Something about its utter and complete destruction terrified her.



She looked at the two figures watching it burn. One of them had her head on the other one's shoulder.



"Tara, is she really gone?" The voice asked softly.



"Yes Faith, she died this morning." The other voice said.



“Bastards.”



“Shh, Faith. Shh. We’ve got to make time now. Jana has to return to her clan. We must leave.”



“Where are we going?”



“Serbia…”



Anyanka left.



***



1908 St Petersburg



Anyanka and Halfrek strolled out of the house where they had enjoyed the last few hours.



The streets were empty. There was a chill in the air, but both demons knew that there was something up. Something unnatural.



"Anyanka sweetie, do you feel that?" Halfrek asked her.



"Feel what?" Anya asked.



"That chill..."



Anya nodded.



Halfrek asked again, "Do you smell that?"



Anya swallowed nervously, "Burning sandalwood."



Halfrek said, "Come on. Let's go."



The two demons hurried along, but Anyanka pulled Halfrek back, "They're here."



As one they both looked around the corner, two figures had cornered a hulking great Lop'vm demon. The demon itself was about 7 feet tall, with spines covering it's face, it looked like a cross between a hedgehog and a torose. It was on its hind legs roaring at the two women in front of it.



"After you Faith." The first one turned, fangs flashed.



"Thank you." Faith replied as she jumped up. The creature roared again, Faith smiled then slashed at the creature, taking out half it's spines. The creature went back onto its four legs and charged, the other dhmpire smiled then brought back an axe.



Faith grinned then leapt back to make way for her fellow companion, the other dhmpire brought the axe down, there was a resounding crack as the head was severed from the spine, white blood spurted out of the wound covering both dhmpires.



"Nice axing Tara."



Tara smiled, "My first." She grinned again, "For tonight anyway."



They both grinned, Faith raising the tip of her nose, she sniffed, "Smell that Tara?" Faith asked.



"I believe we've got a following." Tara turned around, smiling, "Demons, of the vengeance kind..."



"I've always wanted to kill a vengeance demon." Faith growled.



Anyanka and Halfrek looked at each other and ran, Tara and Faith hot on their heels.



All four of them looked like they were just normal humans, but the dhmpiress speed and strength were unlike any human.



Tara and Faith pursued the two demons though the streets, Anyanka was getting worried, they were catching up and they were showing no signs of tiring, unlike her and Halfrek. As though her prayers were answered, rounding another corner, they saw a cab with no one in it, they both ducked inside. The horses were spooked by the dhmpires’ angry presence, rearing up on their hinds in fear as they hurriedly took off down the streets, even before the cab driver could make a single move.



Anyanka felt her heart cringed in great fear and terror as she turned around and saw the dhmpires howling in great anger and fury.



***



By the time Anya finished, she had already gradually inched her way over to one of the single couches and sat down on it. It was also then that Tara was slowly coming to, having passed out a couple of minutes ago from sheer exhaustion and had quietly left Willow to tend to gashed cheek.



“That’s just about it.”



In deep thought, Willow slowly allowed the new information to sink in, “Anymore Anya?”



“Not really, just that the last time I saw her, she and the other dhmpire, the one called Faith? They were really doing everyone in. Faith had seemed like a wild one, but Tara, first two occasions, she was always the calm headed one, but by the third time, all I saw was this overwhelming rage.” Pausing a moment, Anya added quietly, “I heard it was because something had happened to her family and the other dhmpire called Jana…”



“Oh…”



“I’m sorry you had to see all that.” A quiet voice, one not belonging to Giles, interrupting the momentary silence. “I was an animal. Jana's death, made me that animal.”



All three pairs of eyes turned to look at Tara’s presently opened ones, Anya gave a yelp as she quickly drew her knees and pushed her frame as far back into the couch as it could go.



Sensing Anya’s fear, Willow reached out to pat the ex-vengeance demon’s knee reassuringly, “You don’t have to be afraid of her Anya… She won’t hurt you.”



“She’s right, I won’t hurt you. Even when you saw us, called us vampires when we weren’t, I still didn't want to hurt you.”



Clearly not convinced, Anya shot a glance at Tara, “Why should I trust you? I saw the things you did in the past. Worse than any wish I’ve granted in my whole vengeance demon career. Nothing could ever match up to the horror you induced.”



“As I said, I’m sorry you had to see all that. I'm different now, I've changed."



"Yeah and I believe you." Anya snapped back sarcastically.



“But… It’s all in the past now… Things are different now, I have Willow…”



“Oh…” Eyes softening as realization dawned upon her, “Is it like how I have Xander…? I mean, like how if D'Hoffryn ever offered me back my job as a vengeance demon, I won’t take it because I want to grow old and die with Xander?”



Quirking her lips into a smile, fingers wrapping around Willow’s hand, receiving a comforting squeeze back in return, “Yeah Anya, something like that.”



“Then… Then you’re good now. I understand now, you won’t hurt me right?”



“No I won’t.”



“Promise?”



“Promise.”



Satisfied with her small exchange with the dhmpire, Anya clapped her hands in glee and somewhat mixed relief like a young girl who had just gotten her candy.



“Ahem. Sorry to break the moment ladies, but we do have some urgent business to attend to. Clearly, from what Willow has told me, Tara’s attack was arranged by the commandos, under a government agency called the Initiative. I think this situation begs to be looked into, but I only want to do it tomorrow morning because Tara clearly needs some rest. Tara, do you have a place to stay?”



Looking up at a man whose kindness shone clearly in his eyes, Tara couldn’t help looking up to him like a father figure, one she had lost a long time ago, mindful of her manners, “No Mister Giles, I was staying at the hotel, but they trashed the place up.”



“I see, well I do have a proposition for you. Seeing that the Initiative clearly is out to get you, I do presume they have been keeping track of you, and seeing that you’ve been spending a good portion of your time with Willow, they may look for you at Willow’s dorm next. So here’s what I’m suggesting, I’ve an old friend of mine, he’s left town a few days back but knowing of my daily dealing with demons and vampires, he has left me with a key to his house, just in case I, or anyone else ever needed it. I have no use for it, so I’m offering it to you.” Pausing to catch his breath, looking at Willow and Tara with a fatherly tenderness, “Clearly you and Willow have each other and would like to remain this way, so I’ll take it that you’ll be staying in Sunnydale. So it’ll be ideal for you to have a proper place to stay. How does that sit with you?”



Overwhelmed with this man’s kindess, gratitude evident in her dark blue eyes, “Thank you Mister Giles. I-I don’t know how else to thank you for your kindess.”



Looking down at Willow, Giles replied smiling, “Just take good care of Willow.”



“I will Mister Giles. I will.” A promise made in Tara’s heart the first time she met Willow, one she intended to keep for as long as she lived.



“Giles… Thank you. For everything. For being here, for me and for Tara,” Willow whispered, tears in her eyes.



“You’re almost like a daughter to me Willow. I will always do everything I can, for you and for the woman you love.” With a gentle smile, Giles continued, “Now, Anya can fill Xander in on all that happened later on and I shall call Buffy in the morning to inform her of all that has transpired and we shall get her properly acquainted with Tara, say eight tomorrow morning?” Receiving no objections, “Good, and we shall get cracking on this Initiative’s case. They are becoming a pain in my bloody ass. Do pardon my language ladies. Let me get my car started up and I shall send you and Tara over to the house where the both of you shall grab some much deserved rest. And as for you Anya, we’ll have to get you back before Xander wakes up, realizes you’re missing and starts panicking.”



“Xander?” Anya snorted. “Waking up in the middle of a sleep?” Letting out an incredulous laugh, “Even an apocalypse can’t do that!”



***



So.... Feedback, anyone? Feedback junkie here

Cassie



My whole life I've only loved one person, that person was you.

Edited by: intricate mirage at: 12/6/03 8:24 am

[WintersDreamer]

(looking at TaraBaby77) ... she really didn't tell us to read SLOWLY ...really .....did she?!

HHHmmmm (talks to self and counts off items) ...first she did the Crash cliffhanger, then then fight scene leaving Tara bleeding in Willows arms... ANOTHER cliffhanger, then Anya tells the some of Tara history...."Conveniently" not letting us know what happened to Jana ... well, we'll rate as a TEASE, and last but not least, leaving us with just a smiggen of sweetness between Willow and Tara!



So that's 2 cliffhangers and a tease......(shaking head) wwwweeellllll my dear ... you realize it's the *TFTT for you .... don't you?

... I'm sure TaraBaby77 and I will give you .. oh, at least a ...10 second head start.





Ready.....??



Somewhat seriously ..I've really enjoyed this story ... I don't know much about fight scenes but at the end when she kick Adam... couldn't she just pick up the knife and stab him ( maybe twist it just a little)?

I also enjoyed Anya recounting Tara's history... I really like those background touches... and it was fun seeing Anya all flustered!



Anywho ... update soon





* Ten Fingered Tickle Torture.... or with 2 people ... is that Twenty Fingered Tickle Torture ? .... decisions, decisions.

Edited by: WintersDreamer at: 12/6/03 8:13 am

[sabina]

Hi there



Great update



I'm glad that Anya and Tara talked and figured out things between them. It was bugging me to see Anya so scared of Tara.



I'm curious to see what will happen next

---

"I know I was born and I know that I'll die.

The in between is mine.

I am mine!" - Pearl Jam

[Grimlock72]

Hmm...

Quote:

---

Worse than any wish I've granted in my whole vengeance demon career. Nothing could ever match up to the horror you induced."

---

. Based on the stories Anya has told us so far I beg to differ. So Tara killed some vampires (who appearantly had something to do with Jana's death), big deal. The demon is worse in that there doesn't seem to be a reason for that. Still not all that much horror and all.



Whats with the feeding only of the 'death and the drunk' ? Who ever thought up the wisdom that drunk people are fine to be killed ?? Funny how people/creatures always want to think better of themselves compared to others, example being Tara taking exception to being called a vampire. The difference isn't THAT huge in my opinion, they just choose their prey more selectivly (did I mention not agreeing with their selection-criteria already?? ).



Nobody has told Tara that Buffy is in fact a vampire slayer right ??? And boy does she ever have the same mindset/tendencies as other slayers Tara has met... : --> (climbing of soapbox now). Given that Tara could somewhat walk to Giles' appartment I guess she'll be much better tomorrow morning.



Now why Tara would be called a champion I don't know. She a bit wiser and smarter perhaps, but still a dhampire. Unless the last one of a race is always called a champion . Should be interesting what happens when Willow sees Tara feed from a drunk, heh.... oh yeah.



In the mean-time, buying Tara some big's blood from the local butcher might be usefull for her recovery. I assume said butcher has different opening-hours anyway, due to his rather different clientele .



Grimmy

--
"You hurt Tara," Willow said too calmly. "The last one who tried that was a god. I made her regret it." -- Unexpected Consequences by Lisa of Nine

[willowsgirl]

hey cass *waves*

another great update, you're spoiling us! though im not sure cliffhangers count as spoilage...hmmm

anyways, really enjoyed the stories from anya, and im glad giles is gonna helpthem out.

i love the way your chapters go from sad, to flashback, to action, to humour...i could go on! i loved the endingtoo, anya's

“Xander?” Anya snorted. “Waking up in the middle of a sleep?” Letting out an incredulous laugh, “Even an apocalypse can’t do that!”

made me laugh

more soon cass?i know whats coming up soon. *wink*



stacey xxx

Tara ignored him. "Your interruption has left me high and, well... I hardly think dry is the word." Returning home by tempest duer

[Puff]

Hi I've really been enjoying this story. I am glad that Tara is with people that will help her recover. With any luck they can find out about the Initiative and find a way to stop them. I liked the backstory on Tara's past and I'm intruiged about the loss of Jana and Faith.



Looking forward to the next part

---

So, the day started and I knew my name and had my pants on. So far, so good. Yay.
Amber Benson

[Tempest Duer]

Grimmy, remember the first chapter when Tara fed off a drunk? She didn't kill him. I imagine they feed off of drunks because if you're drunk, you're not going to remember being bitten.



Nice update! I loved this chapter!

Willow: Hey Buff. One more thing. Buffy: Yeah? Willow: I’m gay. Buffy: Okay, Will. Xander owes me ten bucks.

~Remember to Breathe by Yellow Crayon

[Shinnen]

excellent update. definitely gives me a better look at tara's past and why anya was so freaked out looking forward to more!

CheerZ

Shinnen



She's the most amazing girl in the whole world. She's the only girl who makes my heart beat faster and slower at the same time. When I'm not with her, I'm not living. I'm not existing until I can hold her in my arms again.

[bluewillowwitch]

Cassie ,

I love this fic! The flashbacks with were cool. I'm glad that her and Anya worked it out and Anya is chiled. was so worried when she saw her love beat like that. It was so mean. Giles is like the best dad. and are so cute together. Can't wait to more. Update soon, please?





Grace

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

"Fate keeps on happening."--Anita Loos

[Grimlock72]

Tempest,



Yes I do remember Tara feeding of the drunk. I specificly read that several times to make sure she killed him, since that's rather unusual to see Tara do.

Quote:

---

blood seeping from two small puncture wounds. His eyes staring up at the sky, glazed. His mouth open. His hands splayed open.



Beer tinged the man's blood. The sweet aroma of the after kill.

---

Now it could be me misreading things, but from the above I would guess the man died. That does make for an interesting Tara though, so it's not too bad... makes for nice discussions .



It's nice to see Willow so caring for injured Tara, thats for sure. Just wondering what will happen when they get to the 'vampire'-part of Tara's existence. Guess we'll have to wait and see :-)



Grimmy

--
"You hurt Tara," Willow said too calmly. "The last one who tried that was a god. I made her regret it." -- Unexpected Consequences by Lisa of Nine

[StrangeQuark]

Very good, all around.



The historical flashbacks are well done, always interesting and full of movement and action (the way that they should be.)



I like the shacking-up of Willow and Tara too. Lots of interesting scenarios possible with that.



Looking forward to more.



-SQ